New film thanks foster carers for their dedication

It’s the second week of Foster Care Fortnight and Cheshire East Council is stepping up its celebration of the annual event and reminding people of the ongoing need to recruit foster carers.

The council would like to say a special thank you to the 124 foster carers it has. The dedication of these extraordinary people is something that is truly inspiring, especially in this time of national crisis. Cheshire East currently has 537 cared for children and we want as many of these children as possible to have the opportunity to live in loving homes.

As a way of saying thank you to our foster carers, the council has produced a film, which thanks each and every one of them. The film also features the talents of 13-year-old violinist Egan Stonier, who attends Sandbach School, playing a version of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’.

The theme of this year’s Foster Care Fortnight campaign is ‘This is Fostering’ and the main focus is to highlight the real-life achievements of those involved in foster care. As part of Cheshire East’s contribution to that cause, using #FCF20, the council has been posting a personal story from our foster carers every day on social media over the fortnight to celebrate the exceptional work they do.

Councillor Kathryn Flavell, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for children and families, said: “We are working really hard this year to get the message out there that the need to find loving homes for children is still great. Naturally, Foster Care Fortnight is the perfect time to be sending that message.

“We’re running a radio advertising campaign with one of our local commercial stations and I really love reading the comments that our foster carers have been sharing through our social media campaign – it’s definitely having a positive impact.”

“However, it is very important that we also stop to take a moment and thank our amazing existing foster carers for their incredible dedication to the profession, and of course to the wonderful children they are supporting. The council is so lucky to be working with you. Thank you.”

The process of becoming a foster carer is very thorough, so anyone interested in this very rewarding career should definitely talk to us today.

If you would like to know more about becoming a foster carer in Cheshire East, then please contact us by email at fostering@cheshireeast.gov.uk or by calling 01925 444100. You can also visit www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/fostering to get information about fostering.

Applications are welcome from anyone, providing that they have a loving, safe place for our children to live.

To watch the film, please visit our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZTNEiPo_wQ

Foster Care Fortnight is run by an organisation called The Fostering Network. To understand more about the work they do and to donate to the cause, please visit

https://www.thefosteringnetwork.org.uk/fcf20

Local Youth Parliament Members champion mental health during Covid-19 crisis

Mental Health Awareness Week presents an ideal opportunity to highlight the importance of mental health amongst the younger demographic living in Cheshire East. The latest population figures estimate the borough is made up of 380,800 residents, 48,100 aged 5-15 and 15,300 aged 16-19.

Cheshire East have two members of UK Youth Parliament; who believe it is important to support access to local mental wellbeing benefits, for our younger generation. As the lockdown relaxes, there are key services that are available to help anxiety and depression.

Amelia Oldroyd, Cheshire East member of youth council, said: “Our generation know they face an uncertain future. I am keen to support them through their anxieties. A positive, healthy mind and encouragement will aid their success.

“A range of mental health support services dedicated to young people are available online via the council’s Covid-19 Mental Health Information Point. Many are also an active partner in the Emotionally Healthy Schools Programme.”

Ruben Barrow, Cheshire East member of youth council, said: “I want to signpost young people in Cheshire East to the best available resources. With access to counselling, guidance for young carers and bereavement services – providing a free, safe way for young people to receive the appropriate advice and support online.

“Coronavirus has restricted normal life and influenced our mental health – we are missing our friends, after school activities and general freedom. Education has been disrupted and dreams of university, apprenticeship schemes and work are static.”

Councillor James Barber, champion for young people, said: “Amelia and Ruben are doing a fantastic job of shining a light on young people’s mental health during this pandemic. Our ambition is for every child and young person in Cheshire East to have the best start in life, be safe, happy, healthy and to reach their potential.

“Cheshire East Children and Young People’s Trust (CYPT) is a fundamental partnership of local authority, education and health organisations that support this. Funding is allocated for the wellbeing of children as well as their parents during difficult circumstances.”

Q&A – Interview with Amelia Oldroyd and Ruben Barrow, Cheshire East Members of Youth Parliament

1. What has the lockdown taught you to appreciate and value?

Amelia: The lockdown has taught me to value the little things. Such as going outside, going for meals, enjoying school life. It has made me appreciate my whole life more because you never know when it can be stripped.

Ruben: I would say it has made me appreciate being around lots of people and having regular social contact with friends.

2. How have school closures impacted pupil’s mental health – what are your thoughts on delaying exams? 

Amelia: School closures have had an impact on pupil’s mental motivation, resilience and determination. Me personally, being a 2020 leaver, it feels as though I have gone to school for five years to achieve nothing as a result of exams being cancelled.

Ruben: I know it has been very hard on some people’s mental health and the exams are a worry especially for those who are sitting them next year like myself.

3. Is there any advice you can give to young carers during this time, who already have a lot of pressure at home?

Amelia: Keep talking to whoever you trust and/or feel comfortable talking to. Every new day is a step closer to this being all over and you’re doing amazing.

Ruben: To all the young carers I would say try your best and if you can access the  support made available on the council’s Covid-19 Mental Health Information Point, try and do so. Thank you and you are doing a great job!

4. What do you find constructive to help manage your own mental wellbeing?

Amelia: I try and exercise every day, keep in regular contact with family members and try and limit time on my mobile devices - learning something new each day.

Ruben: I think exercise is a good tool to maintain positive mental wellbeing.

5. If you are representing young people as member of UK Youth Parliament and a champion of mental health, what is your message?

Amelia: It’s ‘ok not to be ok’, and it’s ok to ask for help. There are so many people and services that can help you. You aren’t alone. Always spread positivity, always be kind. Mental health is something we can all tackle as a collective.

Ruben: Try and stay positive and know that we will beat this - life will return to some form of normal.

Neighbourhood Watch Week Set To Celebrate Neighbours

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Dear Neighbourhood Watch Coordinators
We are delighted to invite you to join us for Neighbourhood Watch Week, which celebrates our neighbours and all the great work that you and your community do to make where you live safer, connected  and more resilient.
Over the past few months, as our lives have all been turned upside down, the word 'neighbourliness' has never meant so much to so many. Communities have pulled together to provide vital support and resources, an army of volunteers has emerged, people are learning new skills, and as a result have become more resilient.
Between 7th - 13th June we are encouraging neighbours to say thank you and celebrate what it means to be a neighbour, the connections we have made, and the importance of staying connected through good and bad times.
Since early March, we have been encouraging people to 'Be Kind, Connect, Support and Share' during these challenging times as part of the Community Action Response. As part of the campaign, award winning cartoonist Tony Husband has created bespoke cartoons for the four community actions to show just how important our neighbours are at this time. Tony's cartoons can be downloaded as posters to display in your window, or postcards to pop through a neighbour's door, and if you are feeling creative you can draw your very own cartoon and enter it in a competition to be judged by Tony himself.
You can download the posters and postcards on our website as well as Neighbourhood Watch Week bunting to make at home.
To kickstart the week, we are inviting you to take part in The Big Virtual Lunch activities, organised by Eden Project, on the 6th and 7th June. The Big Lunch have put together ideas of small things you can do to celebrate community connections with your neighbours such as making your own bunting and spread some neighbourly joy by hanging it out for all to see, put together a lunch for someone or a small food parcel and leave it on a doorstep, join in with The Big Lunch from your doorstep, raise a cuppa, wave a sausage roll or have a picnic in your own gardens at the same time, host a Big Virtual Lunch online from the comfort of your own home, and ideas to host a Big Virtual Lunch over the phone.
On the 7th June we will be launching a competition to be judged by Tony Husband. Look out for details of that on our website and in email on the 7th June. And each day between the 7th - 13th June we will be sharing stories on our social media channels and website highlighting the big and small ways in which neighbours have been connecting, sharing, supporting and spreading kindness.
We encourage you to share our social media posts throughout the week or post your own engaging stories and examples of how you are engaging in the week.
Neighbourhood Watch Week this year also marks 35 years since the very first Neighbourhood Watch Week.
Please find attached our Neighbourhood Watch Week Press Release and Social Media Pack to help promote the week.  You will see in the social media pack are images which can be used in countdown posts, images for the week itself and links to the resources.
Let's celebrate our neighbours and all the amazing work that you do and together let’s make this year's Neighbourhood Watch Week the best yet!
Many thanks,

Have your say on Cheshire East Council’s housing strategy for vulnerable and older people

Cheshire East Council is inviting residents to have their say on a new housing strategy for vulnerable and older people.

The proposed strategy sets out the approach and key priorities for ensuring older or vulnerable residents can access the right type of housing across the borough.    

Members of the council’s cabinet agreed the draft strategy at their first online virtual meeting, on 5 May. Now the public are invited to take part in a consultation to determine whether the priorities and actions outlined in the plan are appropriate and robust.

Due to ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, the consultation will be completed via an electronic survey. This can be accessed here https://surveys.cheshireeast.gov.uk/s/VOPHS_Consultation

Before completing the survey, residents can review the 2020 strategy, which shows evidence-based findings around ensuring accommodation needs are met for vulnerable and older residents.

The closing date for the consultation is 13 July. Residents are urged to use this opportunity to have their say.

Cheshire East praises support for environment and regeneration sector

Cheshire East Council’s cabinet member for environment and regeneration has highlighted some of the excellent work that has continued to be undertaken by the council during the coronavirus pandemic.

Councillor Nick Mannion said: “Work in my portfolio has continued alongside the Covid-19 response and I think it is only right to highlight just some of the excellent work that has taken place against the backdrop of this pandemic:

Business grants

“Many officers have been re-deployed to support vital work in distributing £90m of business grants to around 7,000 eligible businesses in Cheshire East. This effort is still ongoing as we work to validate bank details alongside trying to contact the 14 per cent of businesses that have not yet come forward to receive their grant. If your business has not yet come forward, do visit www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/covidbusinessrates for more information.

“The business teams from the council have also been working hard to facilitate business rates payment holidays, alongside offering advice and support with partners throughout this crisis. I would like to thank the staff for their efforts and all the businesses for their patience with us during this time.”

Tatton ‘Learning Hub’ and charitable donations

Cllr Mannion continued: “Our teams at Tatton Park have developed, in a very short space of time, an inspired idea to offer virtual experiences through a new, online learning hub. The hub encourages people to experience Tatton Park in new ways and provides national curriculum-led home learning resources to families who are home educating during lockdown. 

“Their recent ‘How to Build a Bug Hotel’ video has already received over 12,000 views since posting on Facebook. This is a brilliant learning offer. To see it for yourself, visit Tatton Park’s Facebook page or website.

“Tatton Park has also donated food items from their onsite shop to the Hartford hub of Age UK Cheshire – as they adapt their services to the challenges posed by Covid-19 to older, vulnerable people in the community.”

Support for cultural and heritage sectors

Cllr Mannion added: “We have welcomed support for both our heritage and cultural and creative sectors through emergency response packages from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and The Arts Council.

“We recognise the value of these sectors and our teams have been working tirelessly to keep businesses, organisations and individuals informed of the support available to them during the Covid-19 crisis.

“While applications to the Arts Council emergency response package closed on 30 April, the National Lottery Heritage Trust is welcoming applications until 30 June. More details can be found here.

“In such challenging times, we hope that by sharing initiatives such as these, organisations within our borough can continue to work together to access short-term funding to support any immediate actions and unforeseen risks presented during this crisis.”

Country parks and ranger service

Cllr Mannion continued: “Countryside rangers continue to support the community by keeping all country parks, trails and local nature reserves open to the public. This includes Macclesfield Riverside Park, Middlewood Way, Tegg's Nose Country Park, Brereton Heath Local Nature Reserve, Wheelock Rail trail and Lindow Common.

“Utilising the parks responsibly can provide significant health and wellbeing benefits during this crisis. A gentleman recovering from Covid-19 remarked he found people being able to walk at Macclesfield Riverside Park a great comfort.

“Whilst we welcome visitors, we ask all users to respect and abide by the two-metre social distancing rule set out by the government.”

Housing

Cllr Mannion said: “I’d like to thank our housing and homelessness teams, who’ve been involved so far accommodating an unprecedented number of people at such an unforeseen, challenging time.

“Since the Covid-19 lockdown, the teams have housed an additional 81 people into bed and breakfast lodgings. These direct cases have resulted in 59 per cent being offered longer-term accommodation. There are 24 individuals that are ongoing cases – 21 of whom are accommodated currently.

“Large numbers of the people assisted have lost their accommodation, particularly as a result of this current pandemic. We continue to do all we can to support those who are rough sleeping and who are particularly vulnerable at this time.”

Cllr Mannion concluded: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank our staff who have been working so hard to support our residents, businesses and organisations during this unprecedented time. 

“I have been incredibly proud of the continued hard work and dedication that everyone has shown. At a time when resources are stretched and more of us are working remotely, staff have remained determined to get us all through this crisis.”

Council cancels this year’s Pride event

Cheshire East Council has cancelled its Pride in the Park event, which was due to take place in Queens Park, Crewe on 12 September. 

Government restrictions on hosting large outdoor public events continue to be in place, and many other Pride events across the county, including Chester, Congleton and Macclesfield, have also been cancelled this year. The council’s Pride event was originally scheduled for Saturday 20 June, and it was hoped that it would be possible to host the event in September, when the event was rescheduled back in March.

Councillor Jill Rhodes, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for public health and corporate services, said: “It is with genuine regret that we have made the decision to cancel our event. I appreciate that this news will come as a big disappointment to many people, but our first priority must always be the safety of the public, and with that in mind, this is the only sensible course of action that we can take.

“I am convinced that Pride in the Park will come back even bigger and better next year but for now, I’d like to say a big thank you to all our sponsors, acts and the LGBT+ community in Cheshire East for their support and patience. We sincerely hope that we will have the opportunity of working with you again in 2021.”

The council is currently putting together an exciting programme of music, competitions and other content for a virtual Pride event with dates to be agreed. Keep an eye on the Pride Facebook page for the latest information and to find out how you can be involved.

People who attended last year’s event in Crewe will also remember that an important part of the day was the wellbeing marketplace, which featured local organisations that offer advice and guidance on subjects including weddings, health, fostering and adoption.

The providers that were there in person at last year’s event give their support all year round, so we urge the LGBT community to reach out for support and advice by visiting: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/livewell. If any of the community feel that they need support with their mental health during this difficult time they can contact the Switchboard LGBT+ helpline at www.switchboard.lgbt

Pride in the Park will return to Queens Park, Crewe as a live outdoor event on Saturday 19 June, 2021. Further updates will be shared at www.prideinthepark.com

Cheshire East Council agrees phased opening of schools and sends message of reassurance to parents and teachers

Cheshire East Council is sending out a message of reassurance to all parents and teaching staff that safety is paramount.

Following discussions between the council, teaching unions, school heads and the Cheshire East parent carer forum, a programme of a phased wider opening of education settings is to take place. This will see a two-week period to allow staff to prepare classrooms and implement the significant changes that need to be made to ensure safe working practices with smaller numbers of children and young people.

From 15 June, all eligible nursery-aged pupils will be able to attend schools on a limited and controlled basis where staffing capacity and space allows. Similarly, all primary school reception class pupils will be able to attend.

All year one pupils will be able to attend their primary school from 22 June and from 29 June, and where capacity permits, all year six pupils will be able to return to school. Social distancing should be observed in all cases and year six pupils will have the opportunity to say ‘goodbye’ to friends and to receive support in preparing for transition.

Secondary schools will be able to prepare classrooms and testing arrangements, with the council and school heads awaiting further guidance from the Department for Education regarding pupils in years 10 and 12. In the meantime any face-to-face contact is expected to be by live online conference calls.

Colleges will offer one-on-one support for some learners from 1 June on a risk-assessed basis and parents will be encouraged to allow their children to return to special schools from that date, again on a strictly risk-assessed basis.

Independent schools and alternative education providers will be expected to follow the same approach, applying a phased return and wider opening.

Councillor Kathryn Flavell, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for children and families, said: “Firstly, I want to extend my sincere thanks to our education team at Cheshire East Council, to teaching staff and teaching unions for the professional manner and dedication they have shown in achieving an agreed phased return to learning in our schools in what has become the biggest disruption to education since the war.

“I am conscious that there will be many parents who are anxious about sending their child to school, but I can assure them that safety is paramount, and all necessary measures will be put in place to follow government guidelines around social distancing, staggered start and finish times and phased lunch breaks.

“I also want to emphasise that, where parents do not feel comfortable about allowing their child to attend school, the council will not compel them to do so and there will be no fines issued while this initial re-introduction of school life continues.

“However, we hope that parents will feel reassured by the safety measures being taken and agree that it is in the best interests of our children that they attend school and benefit from learning alongside their peers.”

Mark Palethorpe, Cheshire East Council executive director of people and director of children services, said: “We will continue to monitor this very challenging transition towards wider full-time teaching and learning and will make any necessary changes as we make progress.

“We will listen to all concerns and act accordingly. Covid-19 has brought with it stress, uncertainty and anxiety for many. We need to make sure that any return to early years settings, schools and colleges is safe for children’s physical and emotional wellbeing.

“Our priority is to make sure that any way forward is safe for everyone within our schools and we will be delivering a supply of personal protective equipment to all schools and colleges prior to them opening.

“I have written to all headteachers of Cheshire East schools, colleges and early years settings and to all parents and carers, outlining our programme for meeting the government’s directive towards the phased wider opening of education settings and I would appeal to all parents, carers, teachers and school staff to help us to achieve this safely.

“Both myself and Councillor Flavell also want to thank the teaching staff who have continued to provide remote education during the pandemic and who have attended school to continue teaching vulnerable children and those of our key workers.”

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Council launches online information point during Mental Health Awareness Week

Cheshire East Council has launched an online mental health information point during Mental Health Awareness Week, which this year has the theme of ‘kindness’.

The information point, which can be found at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/mentalhealthinfopoint contains a range of information and resources that residents can use to help overcome any anxieties they may have during this time of uncertainty, including:

● Self-help techniques to manage symptoms or prevent problems developing or getting worse;

● Personalised help using a questionnaire to find out what support is available during the Covid-19 crisis; and

● Urgent help from the Cheshire and Wirral Partnership 24/7 mental health support line on 0300 303 3972.

Councillor Jill Rhodes, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for public health and corporate services, said: “We know the coronavirus outbreak is having a huge impact on everyone’s daily lives and the effect of social distancing, staying at home and of the virus itself could be deep and long term.

“People may feel low, worried, anxious or be concerned about their health or that of those close to them. Now, more than ever, it's important to look after your mental wellbeing, as well as your physical health.”

Councillor Jonathan Parry, Cheshire East Council’s joint mental health champion, said: “There are lots of things we can do to look after our mental wellbeing and help others to prevent these concerns from becoming more serious. My advice is to try to keep yourself occupied.

“We know it is difficult while being at home but keeping busy is important. Working in your garden or doing tasks around the house may help.

“Remember, that this will end and things will get easier. Try not to dwell on negative news on TV, or social media.

“We have already seen immense acts of kindness in our communities during this time, with lots of volunteers helping some of our most vulnerable residents. An added benefit of helping others is that it is good for your own mental health and wellbeing too.”

Councillor Sally Handley, Cheshire East Council’s joint mental health champion, said, “It is a very stressful and worrying time for everyone but no one is alone and there is support out there.

“As your mental health champions for Cheshire East, we are working tirelessly to ensure that everything is done to support our community.

“We urge all residents not to suffer in silence or struggle with their mental health during the coronavirus pandemic, be kind to yourself and reach out to the range of services and organisations that can help.”

What You See and Hear Can Help Us To Make Our Local Area Safer

Intelligence - What You See and Hear Can Help Us To Make Our Local Area Safer - Read More To Find Out What How You Can Help

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Good morning,
I hope that you are well.
With most of you are spending more time at home than normal, therefore we are asking that you let us know if anything is out of the ordinary. After all, you know your area best.
We often get asked what kind things do we want to know, so we thought that it would be useful to let you know the kinds of things that we submit as intelligence.
Suspicious circumstances :- Is there something that just doesn't seem right. if this is the case, in most cases that's because something isn't right.
Speeding/vehicle crime/dangerous driving -
*This could be witnessing a vehicle drive causing alarm, distress and harassment
*This could also be somebody trying door handles of vehicles or looking into vehicles windows
*A belief that false registration plates are being used and/or sightings of them being put on/taken off.
Home security/Suspicious callers -
*This may be people looking into peoples windows
*Trying handles
*Suspicious door to door sales
*Phone call which seem pushy and intrusive.
Anti-social behaviour -
*Graffiti in the local area, anti-social driving, sightings of criminal damage.
Drugs -
*Drug dealing
*Snap Bags on the floor (clear sealed bags, may have a picture on the bag.)
* Regular visits to someone's house or collections being witnessed.
*A strong smell of what is believed to be a drug.
*Have you seen or spoken to somebody has said that they are selling drugs. (Your details and information will be kept anonymous)
*Use of drugs
Weapons -
*Are you aware of somebody carrying a weapon on their person?
*Have you seen weapons stored outside?
General information -
*For when something doesn't seem right, please get as many details as possible, for example, age, sex, clothing, vehicle details.
Child concerns -
*You may be worried about the welfare of a child due to having reason to believe that who they they are living with is putting them at risk. (If there is any immediate danger, please always call 999)
Wildlife -
*Anything concerning wildlife can be passed on to our Cheshire Police Wildlife team.
Intelligence could be in some many forms, therefore if you're unsure, drop us an email or a message on our Haslington Police Facebook page and we will take look into whatever it is that you have seen or heard.
The more information that you can provide us, the better, however every little helps and you're information could be the missing piece to our puzzle.
Thank you for your time and working with us to keep our community safe.
I can be contacted on lizzie.jolley@cheshire.pnn.police.uk for any intelligence.
Please call 999 always in an emergency and 101 for anything else. Intelligence is best the sooner that we have it, however it can also be submitted in retrospect. Your details will be kept confidential.
Kind regards,
PCSO Lizzie Jolley 22582
Haslington Police

Tatton Park dances for VE Day – Friday 8 May

Tatton Park was set to celebrate VE day by hosting a vibrant ‘street party’ down on the Farm with live music and 1940’s dance to join in with. Instead, the Farm team, its volunteers (and of course the farm animals!) have come together ‘virtually’ to star in a fun compilation of 1940’s Jitterbug inspired dance to mark the significant date.

Celebrating 75 years

Friday 8 May marks 75 years since Nazi Germany’s final surrender at the end of the Second World War. On VE Day in 1945 millions of people all over the country took to the streets to celebrate. Jovial Jitterbugs and lively Lindy- hops were just a few styles of dancing that filled the streets and brought communities together.

Farming folk of the 40’s

Visitors to Tatton Park’s rare breed Farm can normally meet characters who lived and worked there in the 1940’s. In her cottage, Aunt Mary churns butter whilst, telling tales of farming life on the estate during WWII. Mr Wigglesworth, the Land Agent, welcomes you into his office to describe how he cared for the estate whilst the Egerton family were away. These characters, played by the Farm’s talented team of volunteers, can’t wait to get back to the Farm to welcome visitors again in the future. For now, they will don their war-time costumes to get into the swing of celebrations from their own home.

Paula Martin (as pictured) plays the role of Aunt Mary, explains;
“You can still enjoy a dance to celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE Day even in lockdown. After playing the character of Aunt Mary at the Farm for over four years I can feel the relief Mary and Albert would have felt when Mr Churchill announced that World War Two was over.”

Dance like its 1945

Tune into Tatton Park’s social media channels on Friday 8 May to watch our fun, nostalgic film bringing families and friends together virtually to mark a special moment in English history. We hope our celebrations inspire you to re-create your own war- time celebratory dance together during lockdown – show us how you’re celebrating @TattonPark on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

A message to our visitors during the coronavirus outbreak

Tatton Park is currently closed to the public. This is a temporary measure that is being kept under regular review as we respond to the national and local situation. Please refer to our latest Covid-19 update. Stay safe and we hope to welcome you to Tatton Park in the near future.

Nantwich Bookshop – new online shop

Reporter Jonathan White

Steve & Denise Lawson of the Nantwich Bookshop and Coffee Lounge have temporarily closed their premises on High Street in Nantwich due to the Coronavirus crisis.

In recent weeks Steve Lawson has been delivering books via bicycle to people within a 15 mile radius of the store, as well as posting books further afield, to make sure people self-isolating still have books to read.

The business has now launched a new online shop within their existing website - https://www.nantwichbookshop.co.uk/ - which can be accessed on different types of device including computers, smartphones and tablets.

Books are available from a wide range of categories: art, audio, biography, child fiction, child - non-fiction, child - storybooks, child - toddlers, classics, craft/hobby, environment, educational, feminism, fiction, food/drink, gardening, general, history, humour, literary, local interest/authors, maps, military, mind/body/spirit, music, nature, poetry, religion, science/business/politics, sport, transport, travel, walking/outdoor, and young adult.

To order please visit https://www.nantwichbookshop.co.uk/ and click on the Shop link, choose your book(s), and pay via the secure PayPal online payments system.

Delivery is 1p to anywhere in the UK via Royal Mail, although Steve Lawson will still be delivering items on his bicycle within 15 miles of the shop.

Books can be sourced from numerous publishers, so if a specific book is not listed on the online shop, please get in touch via email: info@nantwichbookshop.co.uk , or phone: 01270 611665.

Books can also be ordered and paid for over the phone for those without Internet access.

Steve Lawson, of the Nantwich Bookshop and Coffee Lounge, said: “Thank you to everyone for their support over the past few weeks. I am still going to deliver by bicycle within the 15 mile radius. Unlike Gordon Ramsay, I have an official excuse for being so far from home and it gives Denise a break.“

Household waste and recycling centres in Cheshire East to reopen on 11 May

Cheshire East Council is to reopen its household waste and recycling centres on Monday 11 May.

However, residents are asked to note that they will open with restrictions and traffic management in place.

Residents are urged to only travel to a site where the journey is essential and where the waste or recycling cannot be safely stored at home until a later date.

All eight sites will reopen, operating seven days a week from 8.30am–5pm. All users of the sites will need to observe social distancing measures which, unfortunately, means site staff will not be able to assist anyone.

Additional restrictions and measures to be aware of include:

● Access is permitted for cars only. No vans, vehicle trailers or commercial vehicles will be allowed in;

● No more than two people should be in the car and no children are allowed. Where younger children can’t stay at home, they will be allowed to travel in but they must not get out of the car; 

● Site staff will not be able to assist with the unloading or lifting of items. People are advised to ensure they can do this themselves or to have a second person with them to help with heavy or bulky items; 

● Pedestrians must not access the site. Access is by car only;

● For safety purposes, a traffic management system will be in place at all sites. Queuing outside the sites will be restricted and residents may be asked to leave and return later;

● Sites will be operating on a ‘one out, one in’ basis for cars, so residents are warned that waiting times may be significantly longer;

● A car number plate system will be in operation. This will help control the number of visitors to the sites each day. Drivers’ access to the site will be based on the last number on their vehicle registration plate. Number plates on which the last number is odd - 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9, for the first week of the reopening of the sites (week commencing 11 May) will be given access on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Number plates where the last number is even - 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 will be given access to the sites for the first week on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Further information on this and the rota will be shown on the council’s website;

● To help prevent people travelling from areas outside of Cheshire East, residents may be asked for evidence of their address – and so are advised to have a recent utility bill or council tax bill with them;

● Once on site, all cars must be parked at least two metres away from the next one;

● It is everyone’s own responsibility to adhere to the two-metres social distancing when on the site. Please therefore be considerate towards others using the site;

● The waste permit system will not be operating due to the car-only policy;

● Access to the sites will be removed for people using abusive language or intimidating behaviour towards site staff or other people; and

● Waste from households containing people who have Covid-19 symptoms should be double bagged and left for 72 hours before being brought to site.

Councillor Laura Crane, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for waste, said: “I would like to thank residents for their patience over recent weeks whilst our household waste recycling centres have been closed.

“When the sites reopen, on 11 May, restrictions will be in place and it is very likely that queues will be much longer than usual. So, I ask everyone please to bear with us so we can ensure the safety of all site users and our staff. 

“I would urge everyone to think about how essential it is to travel to a site and to be aware that sites will be open seven days a week, so there is no need to rush to visit one immediately when they reopen. It will be best to wait until the likely high demand has decreased.

“If you really can’t wait, please be prepared for a delay, listen to the directions from staff and ensure you take note of the signage.

“Unfortunately, due to the additional volumes of waste and recycling that is accumulating due to the lockdown situation and reduced capacity with our contractors, some of the waste brought to the sites will have to go to landfill.

“This is something we want to avoid as it goes against our environmental policy but, unfortunately, we have no other option at the moment. Therefore, we would be grateful if additional waste and recycling could be kept safely at home until we are out of this temporary situation. This would benefit the environment in the longer term.

“Residents are reminded that all normal collections for household waste, garden and food waste and recycling collections are still operating and have been throughout the whole of the Covid-19 crisis.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the crews for their tireless hard work and determination to keep our collections going. This includes all staff who have joined crews from other areas of the council to ensure residents have an uninterrupted service.”

Information and reminders about the reopening of the sites will feature on Cheshire East Council’s website at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/bins and social media pages. Please follow @CheshireEastCouncil on Facebook and @CheshireEast on Twitter to keep up-to-date.

Local community radio station The Cat continues to broadcast during Coronavirus crisis

Reporter Jonathan White

Local community radio station The Cat 107.9 FM continues to broadcast despite the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.

Several presenters are broadcasting their programmes from home, whilst other presenters continue to operate from The Cat’s studios at Cheshire College - South & West (Crewe Campus).

The Cat broadcasts on 107.9 FM, online at http://thisisthecat.com/ , on your mobile with the TuneIn app, or on your smart speaker by just asking for ‘Cat one hundred and seven point nine’. In February this year The Cat celebrated five years on 107.9 FM.

The Cat plays a wide variety of music, from the 1950s to today. The station’s provides an eclectic mix of music, including Pop, Rock, Chart, Dance, Northern Soul and much more. Their evening output is dedicated to specialist music and we welcome contact from local bands. Please visit http://thisisthecat.com/on-air/schedule/ for their full Schedule.

The Cat has international and local news on the hour, along with local Coronavirus COVID-19 updates at half-past the hour and via their website: http://thisisthecat.com/covid-19/

The Cat has recently introduced a ‘Community Hero Award’. The award is given to an individual who made extra special efforts, going above and beyond during the current Coronavirus COVID-19 crisis. If you know someone who deserves recognition, please email their details to: studio@thisisthecat.com

For more information please visit http://thisisthecat.com/ and their social media pages on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/thisisthecat/ and Twitter https://twitter.com/thisisthecat

The Cat is the only licensed community radio station in Crewe and Nantwich and is a not for profit organisation run entirely by volunteers. To get involved please visit: http://thisisthecat.com/on-air/get-involved/

Chris Cadman, Managing Director, The Cat community radio said: “The Cat 107.9 FM aims to entertain and inform the local community we serve. We realise there are many radio stations out there, but we hope that people who live in the area will tune to their community radio station, get involved and celebrate the great things happening in the area.”

Cheshire East cabinet holds ‘virtual meeting’ – as council business continues

Cheshire East’s cabinet has met in an online ‘virtual meeting’ – to ensure important council business progresses despite Covid-19.

The council’s focus is on combatting Covid-19. However, the authority is also committed to carry on ‘business as usual’, where possible, to ensure necessary decisions are taken and ensure continued delivery of quality, value-for-money services for residents.

New regulations came into force recently allowing councillors to take part and vote in virtual meetings without the need to be physically present.

Today, cabinet members and senior officers logged into a virtual video meeting, via computer. There was also an opportunity at the start of the meeting for members of the public and councillors to ask questions of cabinet members as they do normally at physical meetings.

Cabinet discussed several significant issues and proposed actions. These included:

● Cheshire East Council’s new environment strategy – This is an important step towards tackling the climate emergency and sets out the council’s strategy to respond to the global challenge of climate change and how the natural environment of the borough will be enhanced and protected; and

● Agreement of the Cheshire East carbon action plan –This sets out in detail how the council will meet the ambitious target of becoming carbon neutral by 2025 and how the council will support and encourage businesses, groups and individuals in Cheshire East to reduce their own emissions.

Cheshire East Council has already taken a number of significant actions to combat the impact of Covid-19 and protect both its staff, residents and local businesses from the pandemic. Among these, the council has:

● Launched a ‘People Helping People’ hub on our website – which has led to more than 1,400 people being supported or matched with a volunteer in Cheshire East;

● Begun distributing in the region of £90m in grants to more than 7,000 eligible businesses in the borough;

● Launched a job-matching service;

● Maintained our kerb-side household bins collection services;

● Created a ‘shielding’ hub to protect and support our most vulnerable residents;

● Secured deliveries of essential personal protective wear for our key workers – including those engaged in adult social care, helping the homeless and caring for vulnerable young people;

● Fast-tracked IT system changes to enable essential works to operate remotely, effectively and securely; and

● Adapted services to maintain social distancing, while protecting staff and the public.

Councillor Sam Corcoran, leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “Our priority continues to be protecting people from the impact of Covid-19 and continuing to deliver key council services – such as adult social care, support for vulnerable children and our kerb-side bin collections. That has not changed.

“We also need to continue developing and improving our service delivery for the people of Cheshire East for the future.

“I am particularly proud that, despite the current challenge and focus on combatting Covid-19, this council is moving forward with strategies and action plans to tackle the climate emergency.” 

Councillor Craig Browne, deputy leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “The leader and I would like to thank everyone who has worked so hard to develop both the environment strategy and the carbon action plan, particularly at a time when staff and resources have been stretched as we tackle the impact of the pandemic.

“It is vitally important that we continue ‘business as usual’, where we can, and don’t lose sight of this important work towards securing a greener and more sustainable Cheshire East, where people can live well for longer.”

Cheshire East residents urged to support VE Day while adhering to Covid-19 guidelines

To mark the 75 year anniversary of VE Day on Friday 8 May, Cheshire East Council is calling on individuals and communities across the borough to come together during key moments safely or virtually, to pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of the entire Second World War generation.

This includes all those from British, Commonwealth and allied forces, through to evacuees and those who served on the home front. With the Covid-19 pandemic still gripping the nation, we are all faced with one of the most challenging times since the end of the Second World War.

Sadly, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, many plans for community celebrations have had to be cancelled. Cheshire East residents are being encouraged to celebrate the occasion whilst following social distancing guidelines by putting up decorations such as bunting and having a ‘stay at home’ street party or observing the two-minute silence on their doorstep or at their windows.

Councillor Mick Warren, Cheshire East Council cabinet member with responsibility for communities said, “In these current difficult times when we talk of heroes in our NHS, it is important to remember those other heroes from our nation especially our armed forces, who were involved in the European theatre during WW2. This is why we are celebrating as a nation the 75th anniversary of VE day this year on Friday 8 May commemorating the formal ending of the second world war.

“Cheshire East Council is committed to the Armed Forces community through the Armed Forces Covenant. The covenant sets out a commitment to acknowledge and understand, that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, should be treated with fairness and respect in the communities, economy and society they serve with their lives."

Councillor Ashley Farrall, Cheshire East Council armed forces member champion, said: "VE Day marks a particular point in time in which the country worked together with our allies to defeat a powerful threat, which we should never forget.

“It's particularly poignant on this the 75th anniversary that we are facing a significant threat in the form of Covid-19. We should draw on the strength from that shown by the World War Two generation and the inspirational veterans such as the newly promoted Colonel Tom Moore in his efforts to raise money for the NHS and their heroes. By working together and looking after each other we can also achieve victory now."

The Victory in Europe anniversary falls on Friday 8 May and will be commemorated and celebrated in Cheshire East in several ways.

A short video by the Mayor of Cheshire East, Councillor Barry Burkhill will be broadcast on social media channels at 10.30am, followed by Councillor Ashley Farrall at 11.30am and Councillor Mick Warren at 3.30pm.

Knutsford Town Council has organised a virtual service, which you can follow on their Facebook page www.facebook.com/knutsfordtowncouncil This short service will commence at around 2.45pm and will pay tribute to fallen heroes and mark the anniversary of the day of victory in Europe.

Poynton Town Council has produced a virtual VE Day exhibition, which can be seen at: www.poyntontowncouncil.gov.uk/ve-75th-anniversary-soldiers.htm.

The Municipal Buildings in Crewe will also be illuminated in red, white and blue at 8.30pm.

Nationally a two minutes silence will be observed at 11am on Friday 8 May which will be followed shortly after by a livestream on the Royal British Legion's website. BBC One will have a programme of remembrance starting at 8pm and ending with The Queen addressing the nation at 9pm. This coincides with the exact time her father, King George VI, made his radio address to the nation in 1945 to announce victory in Europe from Buckingham Palace.

The government has also announced a revised programme, to help people to remember and give thanks to the Second World War generation from the safety of their own homes. They have produced a number of useful resources to allow people to take part in the celebrations on the website at: https://ve-vjday75.gov.uk/get-involved/

The council is also asking residents to share pictures of the commemorations on social media and tag Cheshire East Council and use the hashtag #VEDay75 (links to social media).

Other events taking place include, Churchill speech shown on BBC One at 3pm and a We’ll Meet Again for VE Day 75 with Dame Vera Lynn and Katharine Jenkins OBE, a half-hour concert streamed on YouTube by the Royal Albert Hall at 6pm. The BBC will also have a programme of remembrance starting at 8pm and ending with a national sing-along of Dame Vera Lynn's "We'll meet again" at 9pm.

While Churchill praised the courage and resolve of the British people, he also reminded the country that Britain was still at war with Japan and that fighting continued in the Far East in a conflict which continued until August 1945.

It is estimated 55 million people lost their lives in what remains the deadliest military conflict in history.

Coronavirus Policing Questions Answered

Coronavirus Policing Questions Answered

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Police and crime commissioner David Keane has held another question and answer session with chief constable Darren Martland to answer Cheshire residents’ questions on how Cheshire Constabulary is policing the Coronavirus pandemic.
CC Darren Martland responded to questions on how police are imposing the government restrictions during the lockdown, how they are protecting staff working on the front line and how the Constabulary is dealing with domestic abuse.
He gave an update on the 4 Es approach of engaging with communities to explain the legislation and encourage compliance with enforcement action only taken as a last resort. He said that the vast majority of the public in Cheshire are fully compliant with the legislation and the need to resort to enforcement action is minimal.
The chief also outlined that in recent weeks there had been a marginal increase in reports of domestic abuse and that working with partners to tackle this hidden crime remains a priority for the Constabulary.
This follows a campaign recently launched by PCC David Keane to promote domestic abuse support services across Cheshire with a poster campaign in supermarkets to try and reach out to victims when they are alone.
The session was also used to outline other policing priorities to keep Cheshire safe and to provide an update on PPE (personal protective equipment) being provided for officers and staff working on the front line.
The PCC and chief also thanked members of the Special Constabulary who had volunteered their time, giving up more than 4,600 hours to police the pandemic last month – an increase of 563 on February.
PCC David Keane said: “These sessions provide an opportunity for members of our communities to seek reassurance on what Cheshire Constabulary is doing to keep us safe during the ongoing pandemic.
“It is encouraging to see that our domestic abuse campaign seems to be working with more victims coming forward to report their abusive partners. It is also reassuring to see that the majority of Cheshire residents continue to follow government advice by staying home. This is not only reducing pressure on policing but also saving lives.”
The virtual Q&A sessions will take place every Tuesday and Cheshire residents and businesses are invited to send their questions to pcc@cheshire.pnn.police.uk with the subject title ‘Reassurance Q&A’ by midnight on Sunday to be answered the following week. Alternatively, questions can also be taken by phone during regular office hours by calling 01606 364000.
To read the full summary of the session on Tuesday 5 May, please visit: https://www.cheshire-pcc.gov.uk/get-involved/public-consultation/reassurance-qas/

Message Sent By
Caroline Tozer (Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, Communications Officer, Police and Crime Commissioner)