THE fire that burnt out a car and a van at a garage was believed to be started by an electrical fault.

Firefighters were called to Lindley Autocentres in Church Street on New Year's Day after the blaze began in a Vauxhall Corsa.

A scrap Vauxhall Vivaro van was also seriously damaged by the blaze that took firefighters an hour to put out.

Martin O'Toole from the garage said: "We don't leave our customers cars outside. The vehicles in question were ones that had been earmarked for scrap for many moons.

"One of the vehicles we had out the back and had been using for spare parts, while the other was being sent to the breakers yard.

"We've looked at the CCTV with the police and seen that it was an electrical fault that started the fire.

"My first reaction when I heard about it was to make sure that everyone is OK. Because it happened so far away from the building it was pretty fortunate."

IT'S been all change for Etienne Stott since his London 2012 heroics, but it is consistency the Nottingham canoeist is concentrating on as he bids to repeat the trick in Rio.

Stott won gold in the C2 canoe slalom with Tim Baillie at London 2012, however it has been all change in the two years since.

With Baillie opting for retirement, Stott had to find a new partner and teamed up with Mark Proctor earlier in the year with the clock well and truly ticking down towards Brazil.

And Nottingham's Stott believes his new partnership has all the raw ability to make real progress in Rio, only if they can fire on all cylinders on a regular basis.

"We've got a raw baseline of good speed and we are looking to build that as well as the consistency," said Stott, who was speaking at a Get Set to Make a Change event, a programme that looks to keep the spirit of London 2012 alive.

"It's been really exciting being partnered with Mark and we've got this really amazing challenge ahead of us.

"Mark is an extremely good canoeist so sitting in the boat with him I knew it was going well.

"But the true sign of a world class crew is that consistency and the ability to have control in the situations, and that's what we are practicing.

"The gold medal is always at the forefront of my mind but you have to get on to Team GB first of all before you do that.

"To do that we have to beat an amazing crew so although gold and getting to Rio is what it's all about we just need to get as good as we can."

With less than two years to go until the Rio Olympics, Stott knows that time is of the essence for the duo.

But he believes himself and Proctor are on the same page and are relishing the challenges that lie ahead.

"We're engaged with that massive task and we're both really dedicated and excited to be involved with it," he added. "I haven't really thought about the differences between Tim and Mark, it's just a case of looking at the mission and blasting to the future to try to achieve our dream really.

"There's no time for thinking about the differences, we are just focused on the task.

"There's a short amount of time left to get as good as we can and that's really exciting.

"There's a defined end point, we have the experience and we have the support and we're trying to use our best ideas and put it into this project.

"We are just trying to go as far and fast and as hard as we can, and that's a privilege to be involved with that and I'm trying to relish that."

Through GSTMC, the British Olympic Foundation, in conjunction with the British Paralympic Association, is using the spirit of the London Games to re-inspire young people across the UK. The project is being supported by a £2.5m grant from the Big Lottery Fund's Keeping the Spirit of 2012 Alive campaign. http://www.makeachange.org.uk/

FOR any mother, being told that your child is seriously ill is a heartbreaking moment.

But one mum has decided to turn that harrowing experience into something positive.

Leanne Starbrook, of Mansfield Road, Redhill, has launched a charity, inspired by her four-year-old son Rossi's battle with leukaemia.

Her aim is to give other poorly youngsters a special treat – and to simply make them smile.

Leanne said: "I learned from Rossi that just giving him one little thing made him smile – even just a cuddly toy.

"And when you've got a child who has to be in hospital all the time, just seeing that one smile is worth so much."

Rossi, a pupil at Abbey Gates Primary School, in Ravenshead, was diagnosed with the rare acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in March last year.

He endured intensive chemotherapy and spent weeks on end confined to a hospital bed.

Leanne's charity began when she decided to start fund-raising to take Rossi for his dream holiday on a Disney cruise once he was well again.

As she began collecting donations, she realised she could help even more young people than her son.

She said: "The more I thought about it and the more we met other people in hospital, the more I realised there were so many people who didn't have the support network I did.

"My parents were amazing and I had my husband, Richard, as well.

"It's the worst thing in the world to see your child suffering, so I knew if I could do something to ease the pain, it would be worth it."

The Team Rossi Foundation was born and Leanne set about raising as much cash as possible.

Since July, she has raised more than £2,500 through events including a family fun day and a ladies' night.

Her aim is to raise the profile of the charity and help as many local families as possible – despite also being a full-time carer for Rossi.

Luckily, he is well on the road to recovery but won't be given the all-clear until 2017.

Leanne added: "Families can have such a hard time supporting themselves when a child is ill.

"The charity is there to help organise something special for that child, whether it's a day trip to Legoland, or a girly pamper day."

Friend Stef Haydon, 27, who has been supporting the fund- raising.

"Despite the fact Rossi has been so poorly, Leanne has dedicated her time to help make things better for other people," she said.

"She's been an inspiration to the rest of us and she has inspired us to support the charity, too.

"I'm incredibly proud of her and I'm looking forward to seeing the charity move forward and continue to make a difference."

THE Daybrook tower of Home Brewery is a permanent reminder to Arnold of the town's beer heritage.

It was a tradition that ended in 1996, when owners Scottish & Newcastle closed the plant down.

The illuminated 'Home of the Best Ales' sign glowing above Mansfield Road later became 'Home of the Best Nottinghamshire County Council' as the chunky modernist building, with its frieze by sculptor Charles Doman, was turned into an outpost of local government.

Now the history of Home Brewery is commemorated, ironically, by one of the micro-breweries flourishing in vacuum left by the brewing giants' systematic destruction of medium-scale regional production.

Out went Home, the original Shipstone, Hardys & Hansons and Mansfield... and in came new boys Nottingham Brewery, Castle Rock, Welbeck, Springhead and a dozen other Notts producers.

Including Lincoln Green Brewery of Hucknall, which in just a couple of years has grown to the point where it is developing a five-pub estate. Its latest acquisition is the Robin Hood (and) Little John in Church Street, Arnold.

We'll come in a minute to the curious brackets in the name of the pub with the bottle-green and white exterior paint job. The main talking point, apart from the range of Lincoln Green ales, is the Heritage Lounge devoted to Home Brewery memorabilia.

"We wanted to recognise the brewing industry's local history," says Lincoln Green owner Anthony Hughes in a bar packed with Daybrook memorabilia – framed pictures, beer mats, illuminated Home Mild and Home Bitter bar furniture, plus trays on loan from the collection of Andrew Ludlow, Nottingham secretary of the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra).

"We've got items bought on eBay, like a cask end which cost £10. We've had donations from ordinary people and a printed T-shirt commemorating Home Ales' sponsorship of the 1995 Nottingham Beer Festival."

Pride of place, however, goes to a framed jigsaw puzzle of a painting showing brewery founder Sir John Robinson, in hunting pinks, setting about a beef joint with two similarly-attired companions; their table is loaded with several bottles of Home beer.

There is a pleasing link between the old brewery and the new.

Home made liberal use of Robin Hood. The forest bowman was incorporated into the logo and the business billed its beer as "the OTHER local legend."

Lincoln Green Brewery, as well as taking its title from the dominant colour in the Merry Men's wardrobe, gives all of its beers names connected with the legend: the best bitter is Hood, the porter is Tuck, the pale ale is Marion and the EPA is Sherwood. The dark, rich Tuck, by the way, is Camra's reigning Champion Beer of Nottinghamshire.

The ales and a range of craft ciders are served by licensee Lorraine Swain and her husband Mark, formerly of Watnall's Royal Oak, in a pub with a choice of bars including a homely lounge which is more like a cosy drawing room. The piano gets a work-out every Wednesday evening.

It's a drinks-led operation. You don't get a menu packed with hot dishes but you do get pork pies from Hucknall butcher Andy Cunnington, lunchtime cheese cobs and that incomparable pub snack, a pickled egg in a packet of crisps.

The local history theme is taken up in a time line painted on the lounge bar wall, charting the stewardship of the pub over the decades.

"There are a couple of gaps, from 1966 to 1979, and then immediately after 1996, so if anyone can tell us who the licensees were at those times, we'll add them to the time line," says Anthony.

He thinks five pubs will be a good-sized estate, providing the essential guaranteed outlets for Lincoln Green beers. Arnold was a good first choice – like neighbouring Carlton, the area is not over-stocked with pubs renowned their cask-conditioned ale. "We'd like to make Hucknall a priority for our next one," says Anthony "because that is where we brew."

And what about those unusual brackets?

They go back to a photograph of the pub taken in 1905, showing that the signwriter had painted an arrow through the word "and" in the name of the hostelry. To prevent the arrow obliterating the word, it was enclosed in parentheses.

For more about the brewery, visit www.lincolngreenbrewing.co.uk. For more about the pub, visit www.therobinhoodandlittlejohn.co.uk

Owner of Lincoln Green brewery Anthony Hughes alongside the Robin Hood and Little John timeline.

Mark and Lorraine Swain are landlord and landlady of the Robin Hood and Little John pub. Pictured behind them is the original pub sign which sits with a collection of others on the premises. Inset below: A framed jigsaw puzzle of a painting showing brewery founder Sir John Robinson, in hunting pinks.

Pictures: Mark Lee

FINISHING in the top 12 would be akin to winning the league for Mansfield Town this season, according to their manager.

Adam Murray is keen to keep expectations in check with the Stags sat in 17th place, five points off the relegation zone.

They are without a game this weekend but head to Burton Albion next Saturday amid a run which has seen them claim just two wins in their last 14 League Two matches.

"As a player I wanted to win everything; I wanted to finish top of everything, second best was never an option," said Murray. "As a manager, I'm not going to drop those standards.

"For this season, if we can break that top half of the table, we've won the league.

"That has to be our aim – to get into the top half of the table and push on from there.

"Anything above that, we're in dream world at the minute."

Murray is keen to make changes to the squad he inherited from Paul Cox but admits an overhaul will have to wait until the summer.

"The hard thing for myself and the staff is that, coming up to the halfway point in the season, you can't have that total transfusion," he said.

"You can't do the makeover we'd love to do.

"I'd like to make big changes. I think it's needed.

"In parts of games we've shown the way I want to play. At the minute, the ingredients of the cake aren't there to make the whole cake I want to, so we've had to revert back to type a little bit.

"Certain players and certain individuals are used to formations and ways of playing.

"To take it from black to white as quick as I want to, it would end up being a negative on the whole situation, at a time when we need to get points on the board.

"There's a lot of work to be done.

"We've had two weeks where we can set some things in stone and hopefully put a new fresh impetus into the group."

CHARLES Landry says Nottingham Panthers have found strength in adversity as they finished 2014 on a high.

Panthers won their last three games to stay right in the thick of the Elite League title race but it was not always plain sailing for Corey Neilson's side.

However, defenceman Landry says the odd disappointing result has made the dressing room stronger and helped earn the Christmas wins over leaders Sheffield heading into tonight's visit of Edinburgh Capitals (7pm).

He said: "In the hockey season there are highs and there are lows. Experiencing them is how you get better as a team and how you learn as a team.

"That's why I think we got success over Sheffield. We learned from lows before that.

"I think it's really tight in the league. We're focussing on one game at a time.

"We'll get ready for the next game and work hard. If we stick to that approach we'll keep going up the standings and that will be a great thing for us."

The 23-year-old was one of the heroes against the Steelers, scoring the equaliser with 83 seconds to go on December 27 before Chris Lawrence won the game in overtime, 3-2.

Landry (pictured) says he is enjoying life in England having signed from Syracuse Crunch this summer.

"I like it here so far. I like the city and I like the guys," he said.

"They're a great bunch. I'm here with my girlfriend and we're enjoying it so far.

"Christmas was great here. My family came over to experience an English Christmas. They liked it a lot."

The transition from North America has been made all the easier for the Montreal native as he has a kindred spirit at the National Ice Centre in fellow French Canadian Max Parent.

The two grew up relatively near each other in Quebec and both played in the American Hockey League for Syracuse in the last two seasons.

"I knew Max before I came here. We played together for a bit last season at Syracuse and the season before that," he said.

HEARTBREAKING and inspiring stories of Nottingham's gay youth have been published as part of an anthology.

More than a dozen youngsters from the city volunteered to take part in the project, discussing their experiences of coming out and the difficulties they have faced because of it.

Produced with Nottingham-based social enterprise Global Words, it is part of a series of works telling the experiences of marginalised communities in Nottingham.

Youth groups NGY and Base 51 worked together on the project. The youngsters, aged between 14-20, took part in a six-week workshop, contributing new material every week.

Global Words director Victoria Villasenor said she was stunned by the stories of hardship and rejection the writers had experienced.

She added: "It started out with them talking a lot, discussing coming out but what it turned out to be was really intense stories of survival, of bullying, of sexual violence and self-harm.

"All of the kids were really brave in sharing their stories.

"As soon as one of them started digging deeper, the rest instantly followed."

Ms Villasenor, who is also a writer of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender literature, said it had altered her experience of what it was like for today's youth to come out.

She added: "I would have thought it was easier before working with these kids but it's amazing just how much bullying still happens and how much they have to deal and go through."

The book, SpeakingOUT, is being sold in Waterstones, Five Leaves Bookshop and online, with the profits going to the annual gay pride festival Nottingham Pride.

Among the authors is 20-year-old Amy Meakin, of Chilwell. She said: "I did my piece about gender and gender stereotypes. I wanted to write a piece of writing about the way that I feel and hope that others feel the same way about it.

"There's a lot of myths out there and I hope that it helps clear up some of those.

"It was incredible, I'd never written that seriously before I did English at A-level but thought I would have a published piece of work."

Global Words is among the dozens of groups throughout the city that are supporting Nottingham's ongoing bid to become a Unesco City of Literature.

RAIL passengers, especially season ticket holders, will now have to pay more to travel after new fare rises kicked in.

East Midlands Trains increased ticket prices by 1.3 per cent on average from yesterday, while the government has put up regulated fares and season tickets by 2.5 per cent.

Single journey prices will rise by an average of 17p.

Jonathan Coope, 49, of Mapperley Park, travels to Leicester three days a week to work at De Montfort University.

His journey price has risen from £12 to £12.30.

Mr Coope said: "I'm not too distressed and I feel I could cope with a rise this year.

"There have been steeper rises in previous years. I've been travelling for three-and-a-half years and it used to cost about £10.60."

Bulwell resident Gwen Pippard, 68, is a live-in carer an often travels to Berkhamsted in Hertfordshire. A return journey on her senior railcard fare is £36.30.

She said: "I think they could come down [in price] a bit if anything. It goes up every year and always above inflation so it continues to hurt."

University of Nottingham student Rachel Ward, 20, travels to Dundee once a month to visit her boyfriend.

She said: "It's going to hit me a lot, especially because I'm a student, but it won't stop me from making the journey."

Rod Secker, 60, of New Basford, often travels to Birmingham on Sundays for walking trips. He said: "The fare rises are pretty disgusting – they do it every year so I feel sorry for people who have to use trains regularly."

The latest rises mean season ticket prices have increased by around a quarter in the past five years. Commuters travelling between Nottingham and Birmingham will now have to pay £3,720 – a rise of £728 since 2010.

Annual tickets from Nottingham to Derby have risen by 27 per cent to £1,404, and passengers travelling between the city and Lincoln will now pay £2,208 – a £416 rise.

East Midlands Trains said the most recent fare increases represent a cut in "real terms" because the current level of inflation is 2.3 per cent.

Managing director David Horne said: "Money from fares goes towards running and maintaining the railway – which benefits every household by improving journeys, creating employment and helping to boost the economy.

"For every pound spent on fares, 97p goes on track, trains, staff and other costs, while 3p goes in profits earned by train companies for running services on Europe's fastest growing railway."

A postman panicked after a road accident and went home and had a drink, tipping him over the legal limit to drive, magistrates heard.

Daniel John Hayes had drinks with pals the night before, then set off to work in a Ford Focus but was involved in a collision with a Citroën Berlingo.

On Friday, January 2, Hayes pleaded guilty to drink-driving and failing to stop, after the accident at the junction of Kenrick Road and Hallam Road, Mapperley, on July 25 last year.

City JPs heard Hayes, 32, of Prospect Road, Carlton, had 87 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, over the limit of 35.

He already had a conviction for drink-driving.

Hayes' solicitor said what happened had been a "terrible start to the year" for her client, and he had been on bail for "a considerable length of time."

She said Hayes had friends round for drinks and had gone to work and panicked when he had the accident and went home and "had a few more drinks".

A part-time postman for Royal Mail, earning £235-a-week, she said he had spoke to his union and he did not think what happened would effect his employment.

He is a young man with his life ahead of him.

After retiring to consider their decision, three magistrates decided to fine Hayes and disqualify him from driving for three years.

He was ordered to pay prosecution costs of £85, a fine of £235 and a victim surcharge of £24.

No separate penalty was imposed for the offence of failing to stop but his licence will be endorsed.

JPs told Hayes he needed to apply three months before the ban expired to get his licence back.

And they stressed he could not drive until his licence was back in his hands and Hayes pledged: "I won't."

According to a Freedom of Information request to Nottinghamshire Police, 948 people were caught drink-driving in figures available up until August last year, including 126 in July and 136 in August.

Sports star Andy Murray may be gearing up for his next match against Novak Djokovic - but perhaps Leyton Orient are giving him more of a headache.

The 2013 Wimbledon champion posted a photo on Instagram of him playing Football Manager... and he chose to play as League Two club Mansfield Town.

Murray said: "Football Manager is always a winner on the road!"

The screenshot shows that Murray has managed to get the Stags promoted to League 1 and was top of the table.

Football Manager is always a winner on the road! #mansfield

A photo posted by Andy Murray (@andymurray) on Jan 1, 2015 at 12:22pm PST

The Scot beat Rafael Nadal 6-2 6-0 in the semi-final of the Mubadala World Tennis Championship in Abu Dhabi on Friday and will play Djokovic this evening.

Transport companies are now running normal services again after the Christmas and New Year period.

Here, we will keep you posted on the latest transport and traffic news for Nottinghamshire on Saturday, January 3.

8.07am: There are currently no issues reported by any transport companies or on the roads.

8.48am: Delays are expected between junctions 2 and 4 on the M1 soutbound due to an accident that has closed two lanes. The road is expected to fully reopen by 9.30am.

8.56am: The accident on M1 southbound between junctions 2 and 4 are currently causing 10-minute delays.

10.09am: East Midlands Trains has announced it has made a late change to the route of its 6.15pm service from London St Pancras to Leeds. It will now terminate at Sheffield at 9.05pm and will no longer stop at Wakefield Westgate and Leeds. 

Heavy rain is expected to sweep through Nottinghamshire as temperatures drop today.

The Met Office forecasts up to a 95 per cent chance of rain this morning, with some of the rain turning heavy before it clears during the afternoon and light winds.

The maximum temperature is likely to be 4C, but it could feel like -2C by this evening, with some rain potentially turning into sleet or snow over hills.

Forecasters say a widespread frost will also form everywhere overnight, and people should wake up to -1C temperatures tomorrow.

Most of the country is forecast for heavy rain today.

The first shooting stars of the New Year will light up the sky this weekend.

Astronomers predict the annual Quadrantids meteor shower will be most visible across the county between Saturday, January 3 at 9pm and early Sunday morning.

It will make an appearance in the north to north-eastern skies - but it could be obscured by the bright waxing gibbous moon.

The event can be very brief and easily missed so stargazers are advised to watch it from a position where the moon is blocked by a building or tree.

The Quadrantids are always the first meteor shower of the year and could have 80 meteors and hour at its peak, according to NASA.

The Nottingham Astronomical Society has chosen its favourite sports in the county to view the spectacle.

Colston Gate:

Near Cotgrave, on the road siding Colston Gate, 500m East of Junction A46 there is space for four cars.

Swab's Lane:
1km north of Kinoulton on Swab's Lane, there is an off-road parking area to the south side of the canal car park.

Canal Lane:
At the 90 degree bend in Canal Lane between Harby and Plungar, there is roadside parking with room for two to three cars.

Share your pictures and video of the sights in the sky. Email newsdesk@nottinghampost.com.

This time last week Nottingham woke up to a couple of inches of freshly laid snow.

And parks across the county were filled with people sledging and making the most of the wintry conditions.

But one group took it to the next level and videoed themselves doing inner-city snowboarding at Wollaton Hall.

Unfortunately the snow and ice aren't set to make a comeback any time soon... so these boarders might have to travel further afield for their next ride.

Nottingham Forest fans will hope they don't find themselves on the wrong end of a cup upset when they travel to League One outfit Rochdale on Saturday, January 3.

The FA Cup third round is famous for its giant-killing feats and while the clash involving Stuart Pearce's side may not attract top billing, neutrals everywhere will be keeping an eye on other potential upsets.

Here are four David and Goliath-style games this weekend that could go down in history.

Blyth Spartans v Birmingham City (Saturday, January 3 - kick off 3pm)

When the Northumberland minnows overcame Hartlepool in the previous round to book a place in the third round for the fourth time in their history, they were probably banking on a money-spinning tie against one of the Premier League elite. 

But the Northern League Premier Division side - the lowest ranked team left in the competition - may just fancy their chances at home to Birmingham, who until recently had struggled in the Championship this season.

Dover Athletic v Crystal Palace (Sunday, January 4 - kick off 1pm)

Football Conference side Dover will also be hoping that home advantage can make up the difference in class with Premier League team Palace.

The away side, who may look to rest senior players as they currently languish in the relegation zone, will welcome new manager Alan Pardew - previously on the end of a cup upset when his former club Newcastle United were beaten 3-1 at then-League Two side Stevenage Borough at this stage four years ago.

AFC Wimbledon v Liverpool (Monday, January 5, 7.55pm)

A game brimming with history, even if the home side have only been around since 2002. AFC Wimbledon, of course, was founded by Wimbledon FC supporters when their club was moved to Milton Keynes and renamed MK Dons.

The old Wimbledon's finest hour came against Liverpool when the "Crazy Gang" beat a legendary team 1-0 in the FA Cup final at Wembley in 1988.

The new club has had to rise from the Combined Counties League with five promotions and is now 11th in League Two. 

They are even bigger underdogs than Vinnie Jones and co were 27 years ago but then again Liverpool are not the club they once were, and are eighth in the Premier League after struggling this season.

Yeovil Town v Manchester United (Sunday, January 4 - kick off 3.30pm)

The Red Devils will be hoping to avoid red faces for the second time this season after being trounced 4-0 at MK Dons in the Capital One Cup in August. 

Louis van Gaal, in his first season in charge at Old Trafford, may now be more prepared for taking on English football's lesser-known corners and Yeovil may be rock bottom of League One - but stranger things have happened.

Saturday, January 3

FA Cup highlights: BBC One, 10.50pm - midnight

Sunday, January 4

Dover Athletic v Crystal Palace: BT Sport 1, 1pm

Yeovil Town v Manchester United: BT Sport 1, 3.30pm

Arsenal v Hull City: BBC One, 5.30pm

Monday, January 5

AFC Wimbledon v Liverpool: BBC One, 7.55pm

Tuesday, January 6

Everton v West Ham United: BT Sport 1, 7.45pm

FOR Stephen Bestwick and hundreds of other apprentices across the county a new year means a new career.

The former self employed courier will be swapping delivering packages for dropping off passengers when he starts as a bus driver on Monday, January 5.

Despite having more than 20 years driving experience the 41-year-old struggled to find enough work to sustain an income and was referred to training provider CT Skills by JobCentre Plus to help him on the road to a new career.

The Brindley Road, Bilborough, resident said: "My dad used to drive buses in Nottingham when I was young so they have been a big part of my life as I was always on and off them as a kid.

"It took me a couple of goes to get through the assessments I needed but the team at Nottingham City Transport were really supportive and encouraged me to come back and try again. The assessments are really tough so I was over the moon when I finally got through and was able to go on the pre-employment training.

"On the training course we spent some time in the classroom with a tutor from CT Skills who went through Maths and English with us and also helped us to prepare for our interview.

"We also got to go to an old air field to do some practical driving sessions in a bus.

"By the time it came round to the interviews I felt really confident that I knew what the job would involve and I had spent some time with the NCT team so I was comfortable speaking to them.

"This is my first apprenticeship and I don't think I would have got the job without it.

"I think it is a really good way to gain new skills and get back into work."

Nottingham City Transport, recently named bus operator of the year 2014, has used CT Skills to support its driver recruitment since 2012.

Matt Stewart Baker, Training Officer at Nottingham City Transport said: "We have worked closely with JobCentre Plus and CT Skills to develop a robust process that suits our needs when recruiting for our trainee drivers.

"We ask a lot of our candidates while they are going through the assessment, pre-employment training and interview process. This is partly due to the fact that a lot will be expected of them if successful in the role but also because we know once they make it through the process that they are the right calibre for us.

"The fact that we are able to get to know our candidates before we interview them is great for us and them. We are all more relaxed and can we can get the best out of our potential employees."

CT Skills has helped 180 people into employment with Nottingham City Transport over the last two years through its pre-employment training courses for trainee drivers.

Alex Ford, chief executive officer at CT Skills, said: "We're delighted to have been able to support Nottingham City Transport over the past two years in getting 180 people into employment.

"In partnership we have developed a comprehensive pre-employment programme that supports local people into entry-level bus driver roles.

"Our next recruitment day is taking place in mid January and I would encourage those who are interested to speak to their JobCentre Plus adviser, or contact us to find out more."

New research from the Centre for Economics and Business Research has revealed that 80,810 apprenticeships last year contributed around £2.7 billion to the economy of the East Midlands.

For every £1 of public money spent on apprenticeships £21 is created for the national economy.

Government figures have shown the fastest growing age group of those taking on apprentices is the over 60s, with numbers increasing from 400 to 2,480 in the past five years. Of those aged between 45-59, there has also been an increase from 9,810 to 41,850 over the same period.

A robbery took place at the Highbury Vale Co-op on Saturday, January 3.

Police said they are hunting for a suspect in the area around the Highbury Road store following the incident.

They are looking for a man described as white, in his 20s, wearing a black top and bottoms, who was carrying a white sports bag over his shoulder.

A man who in Ladbrokes, opposite the shop, said he had seen numerous police cars outside the Co-op and believed it had been closed for about an hour.

The Post asked to speak to the store manager but was told she was in "no fit state" to speak.

Anyone with information should contact the police via the 101 number.

Did you see what happened? Contact the newsdesk on 0115 905 1951 or email newsdesk@nottinghampost.com.

I SEE Nimbyism is alive and well in the campaign opposed to sand and gravel extraction at Shelford.

John Flynn's article (Your Shout, December 8) claims there is an "overwhelming argument" against the plan, but provides no evidence.

The Nimby prize then goes to Bev Cook's letter ('Don't destroy our beautiful valley, December 14) which, whilst claiming not to wish the scheme on Barton in Fabis, then goes on to try and make the case (not very well) for precisely that.

Barton in Fabis is just as attractive and directly opposite Attenborough Nature Reserve. Contrary to what Bev Cook claims, Radcliffe on Soar power station is miles away from the site and planes do not fly directly over it. And far from being "served by rail and road links" the new A453 is further away than the current road and East Midlands Parkway is nowhere near the site.

Arguments against Shelford and in favour of preserving one bit of countryside are destroyed when you are happy to see other areas of countryside destroyed!

Shelford residents need to face up to the fact that it is a much larger site than most, the development of which will mean at least three other sites will not be required and countryside saved as a result. Plus, the option to use barges at Shelford means 13 fewer lorries on the road for each barge load than would otherwise be the case.

Perhaps rather than trying to shift the problem elsewhere, Nottinghamshire residents need to unite to challenge the overall quantity of sand and gravel required, of which around 50% goes outside the county, and also put the focus on recycling more material and the use of alternatives.

BARBARA RENFREW

Brown's Lane

East Bridgford

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FRED Hart is moaning about me moaning ('A fine time to start moaning', Letters December 27). Well, here are some facts.

As Fred correctly states, we have to tackle a £27 million budget gap. And the Government has confirmed that next year it wants to cut another £30 million from our council grant funding. This means Nottingham has seen a loss of over £100 million since 2010 at a time when demand for many of our vital services such as care for the elderly and child protection, is growing.

Meanwhile, according to the Government's own figures, affluent Windsor and Maidenhead in the South will see its "spending power" increase. So overall, a household in Nottingham will lose £133 while a household in Windsor will gain £38.

This is simply unfair. And it's Nottingham people, including many who are vulnerable, who are bearing the brunt of these Government cuts at the expense of people in other places who are better off and don't necessarily need the same level of support.

On Fred's second point, the council does not get any of the money from speeding fines and other income from parking and other camera fines has to go back into transport schemes so can't be spent, for example, on things like caring for vulnerable people.

I hope this clarifies the situation and shows that the 'moaning' has a purpose. It is to draw people's attention to how badly the North and Midlands are being treated by the current Government. The alternative is to sit back and accept the unfairness, which is not what we are elected for.

COUNCILLOR GRAHAM CHAPMAN

Deputy Leader

Nottingham City Council

IF you're feeling glum at the thought of going back to work or school next week, there's one sure way to cure the January blues – get out for a stroll in the fresh air.

Notts is blessed with an abundance of beautiful parks, from country estates to venues in the heart of the city.

So don that warm jumper you no doubt got from Santa and head out for a healthy hike this weekend:

Arboretum Park, Waverley Street, Nottingham

The city's oldest park with more than 800 trees, most of which were planted in the 19th century. It maintains its original layout, dating back to 1852, and has lots of walkways and attractions, including an aviary and no less than nine Grade II listed structures. Plus, it's dead easy to get to as it's right next to the tram line.

www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/arboretum

Arnot Hill Park, Arnold

Another lovely old venue dating back to 1792, which has recently undergone a major restoration programme taking it back to its former glory. There have been improvements to the lake, as well as a new skate park, play area, sensory gardens, art trail and tree sculptures.

www.gedling.gov.uk/parksopenspaces

Attenborough Nature Reserve, Barton Lane, Attenborough

Beautiful, award-winning park with a fabulous visitor centre, nature shop and cafe selling home-made, organic food. There are also loads of groups to join, including Wild Kids and Wild Tots, plus you can follow one of the many nature walks or go birdwatching around the lake.

www.attenboroughnaturecentre.co.uk.

Bestwood Country Park, Alexandra Lodge, Northern Drive, Park Road, Bestwood Village

Explore more than 650 acres of historic parkland, with lakes, meadows, ancient oaks and breathtaking landscapes between Arnold and Bestwood.

Don't miss the popular Winding Engine House, the last remaining relic of the former Bestwood Colliery – it's even been designated a Place of Interest by tourist organisation Visit England.

www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/enjoying/countryside

Broxtowe Country Park, Alwyn Road, Broxtowe Estate

Fabulous inner city open space between Aspley, Broxtowe Estate and Nuthall, with lots of woodland plus sports facilities and the great Phoenix Adventure Centre.

www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk

Burntstump Country Park, Burntstump Hill, Arnold

Featuring 22 acres of woodland and park with great pathways around the flora and fauna, plus the rather lovely Burntstump Inn smack in the middle of the site. Winner.

www.gedling.gov.uk/leisure

Cotgrave Country Park, Hollygate Lane, Cotgrave

Explore lovely woodland, with around 5km of paths and cycle trails, at the centre of which is Heron Lake – a popular spot for anglers. Grantham Canal also runs through part of the site, which was established in 2000 on a former colliery.

www.nottscc.gov.uk/enjoying/countryside

Colwick Country Park, Mile End Road, Colwick

Just a stone's throw from the city centre is this idyllic spot, with lake, woodland, meadows and fishing galore. The excellent adventure centre also runs lots of water-based activities to keep adrenalin junkies happy.

www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/colwickCP

Clumber Park, off the A614, near Worksop

One of the most famous of all Notts beauty spots, featuring more acres of parkland, heath and woods. Highlights include the Gothic chapel and the brilliant Walled Kitchen Garden – which offer a wonderful glimpse of the site's past as a major country house estate. Parking is £6.50 and admission to the Walled Kitchen Garden is £3.90 for adults, free for kids.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clumber-park

Highfields Park, University Boulevard, Nottingham

Right next to the University of Nottingham is this 121-acre park endowed with gorgeous trees, boating lake and sports facilities. A favourite with families because of the rather super play park and the nearby Lakeside Arts Centre, which holds regular performances and events for kids and has a great cafe.

www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/HighfieldsPark

Holme Pierrepont Country Park, Adbolton Lane, Holme Pierrepont

Home to the famous National Water Sports Centre, you won't believe you're only 10 minutes away from the city centre in this beautiful 274-acre park. As well as the unbeatable water facilities – offering all sorts of adventure packages – there's a great family fun park, nature trails, cycling routes, a cafe and a gym.

www.nwscnotts.com

Newstead Abbey, Ravenshead

The atmospheric former home of the poet Lord Byron is a must at this time of year – especially for those with Goth tendencies.

Explore the beautiful landscaped gardens and dramatic lake, or simply take some eerie photos of the gorgeous abbey, which dates back to the 12th century. The grounds are open every day, while the house opens at weekends only. Parking £6, house tours £5 for adults and £4 for kids.

www.newsteadabbey.org.uk

Rufford Abbey Country Park, off the A614, Ollerton

This historic 150-acre site is full of interesting nooks and crannies, with the remains of a medieval monastery, a contemporary craft centre, woodland walks, a children's play village, sculpture trail and lake. And there are regular events all through the year, so watch out for details on these pages.

www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/enjoying/countryside

Rushcliffe Country Park Loughborough Road, Ruddington

Smashing family venue with enormous play park featuring about 20 pieces of modern equipment suitable for kids up to 12 years of age.

There's also plenty of opportunity to spot wildlife walking around eight kilometres of paths, with a skateboard and BMX track nearby.

www.rushcliffe.gov.uk/rushcliffecountrypark

Sherwood Forest Country Park, Edwinstowe

Timeless attraction, which is home to the UK's "tree of the year" the mighty Major Oak, as well as numerous others dating back roughly 800 years. The 450-acre site hosts all sorts of events throughout the year and has a great visitor centre, gift shop, cafés and craft village. Parking is free until the beginning of April.

www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/enjoying/countryside

Sherwood Pines Forest Park, off the B6030, Old Clipstone

Largest woodland open to the public in the East Midlands with great walking and cycling, as well as regular activities for families, including the chance to learn bushcraft skills. Parking £4 per day.

www.forestry.gov.uk/sherwoodpines

Wollaton Hall and Deer Park, Wollaton

Home to the magnificent Elizabethan hall (better known these days as Wayne Manor from the latest Batman movie franchise).

As well as the house, you can visit the Industrial Museum on one of its steaming days, or just walk around the gorgeous lake and have a cuppa in the popular cafe. Job done.

www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk

EastEnders

Surely Kat and Alfie ultimately belong together? That's what the now chappie is hoping when Donna approaches him with a plan to help Kat make her latest rent payment. However, his estranged wife seems to have more than money troubles on her mind after Mo delivers some shocking news.

Alfie senses that Kat wants to talk about something, and reassures her that she can always confide in him – but he isn't prepared for what she says next.

Stacey is also concerned, especially after she finds her in bed with a stranger, but will she do a better job than Alfie at finding out what's on Kat's mind?

Lauren is unnerved by Max's behaviour. Unable to talk to Peter or Abi about her suspicions, she turns to Stacey, and admits she's starting to fear her dad was involved in Lucy's murder.

Emmerdale

Cain is acting oddly – when he's not blaming Dan for his own mistakes, he's telling Debbie that he loves her – and it's not gone unnoticed. Charity grows concerned when her cousin collapses, and insists he goes to A&E.

A doctor confirms Cain's worst fears, explaining he has an aneurysm and needs an urgent operation, but the mechanic prefers to deal with his problems by going home, keeping quiet.

Chas is troubled to see her brother being snappish and assumes he's having an affair. But the truth is about to come out as Cain collapses while walking by the side of a freezing river...

Katie scrolls through Robert's phone, looking for evidence he's cheating.

Coronation Street

Kirk is a bag of nerves as he and Chesney prepare for the wedding. When Beth's relatives turn up, they are underwhelmed by the groom, and their cruel words do not go unnoticed by Sutherland.

Michelle tries to make Steve jealous by setting up a date with client Hamish, and McDonald shows little sign of remorse over the fact Eileen and Andrea have had to sort out his financial problems at Street Cars.

David contacts the police about Kylie's disappearance and Callum's drug-dealing, unaware that Callum has lured Max to the Red Rec, where the youngster asks him about his mum's whereabouts. Eventually, the police get in touch with David.