Olympic flame to light up Cheshire East

 

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In just over two months’ time the Olympic flame will be blazing a trail through Cheshire East and the exact route of the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay can now be revealed.

On the morning of May 31, the streets of Crewe, Congleton, Macclesfield and Knutsford will be thronged with people as the Olympic flame passes through the Borough and excitement builds ahead of the London 2012 Olympic Games.

People will get the best opportunity to see the flame as it is carried through these towns by the local torchbearers. The details of those who have been selected as torchbearers will be released at a later date.

The flame will be transported between the towns in the torch convoy – made up of several vehicles – but the flame will not be visible.

The route has been published two months in advance to give local communities time to plan activities and celebrations around the relay.

The specific routes and timings are:

Crewe: 8am-8.30am

At approximately 8am the torch convoy will change into torchbearer mode from the junction of Hungerford Road with Coleridge Way. The torch will then travel along Hungerford Road into Earle Street and past the Municipal Buildings, turning left into the Market Street pedestrian area. From here it will continue onto Edleston Road, and then turn left onto Nantwich Road and past Crewe railway station. It will then travel past the roundabout onto Crewe Road past MMU Cheshire, and then revert into torch convoy mode at Springfield School at approximately 8.30am.

Congleton: 8.45am-9.25am

At approximately 8.45am the torchbearer will pick up the flame on Sandbach Road at the junction with Padgbury Lane, by Congleton High School. The torch will then travel along Sandbach Road into West Road and onto the Clayton Bypass, past Tesco and up Rood Hill. From here it will turn right, then left, around the ambulance station and onto Macclesfield Road where it will revert into torch convoy mode by Eaton Bank High School, at approximately 9.25am.

Macclesfield: 9.35am-10.10am

At approximately 9.35am the torch relay will start on Congleton Road by the 30mph signs near the junction with Moss Lane, then past the Flowerpot pub and onto Oxford Road. After passing All Hallows Catholic College, the torch will turn left onto Chester Road and pass the Broken Cross roundabout until the 40mph signs, where it will revert to torch convoy mode at roughly 10.10am.

Knutsford: 10.25am-10.50am

At approximately 10.25am the torchbearer will pick up the flame at the junction of Chelford Road with Parkfield Road, then head along Chelford Road onto Adam’s Hill, turning right onto Toft Road at the traffic lights. From here it will pass the court buildings and civic centre, then over the roundabout and onto Manchester Road, until the 60mph signs where it will revert into torch convoy mode at around 10.50am.

A project of this size and importance will inevitably mean there will be some road closures. These will be publicised well in advance and disruption will be kept to a minimum.

Staff from Cheshire East Council have already been meeting with businesses that could be affected by the torch relay.

Councillor Rod Menlove, Cabinet member with responsibility for environmental services, said: “I am sure that people will be out in force to welcome the Olympic flame to Cheshire East and cheer on the inspirational torchbearers.

“We are fortunate that it will be passing through four of our major towns, offering people from across the Borough the opportunity to come out and see the flame for themselves.”

Sebastian Coe, Chair of LOCOG, added: “Today we bring the Olympic torch relay to life. The flame symbolises the Olympic spirit and its journey around the UK will bring the excitement of the games to our streets.

“Now the people know the route the Olympic flame will be carried along they can start planning how they might  celebrate and make it Cheshire East’s moment to shine.”

For anyone who wants to get more involved in the Olympic torch relay, Cheshire East Council is looking to recruit 300 volunteer stewards to help on May 31 to manage this once in a lifetime event in their local community.

Anyone over 16 can apply and full training will be given. To register your interest email volunteers@cheshireeast.gov.uk

For more information on the Olympics and how you can get involved in Cheshire East go to www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/2012

Crewe man behind bars for downloading indecent images

A Crewe man who admitted sharing the most depraved and extreme indecent images of children has been sentenced to five years in prison.

Daniel Francis Tunney, 29, from Crewe was sentenced at Chester Crown Court on Thursday 15 March 2012 after pleading guilty to 22 charges of possessing, making and distributing indecent images and possessing extreme pornography.

He was also ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life, be subject to a Sex Offenders Prevention Order for life and will be classed as a dangerous person under the criminal Justice Act 2003 in order to control his life to prevent re-offending. He has also been disqualified from working with children.

In May 2011 Cheshire Police′s Paedophile Unit discovered a man from Crewe was sharing indecent images via an online file sharing programme.

Tunney was arrested and a number of computers and digital media were seized by detectives.

They discovered a range of horrific and distressing images and videos depicting sickening abuse of children and animals.

DS Mark Fletcher from the Paedophile Unit said: "Tunney had traded the worst levels of abuse imagery with paedophiles all over the world and had actively made 14,000 child abuse images and videos available for other users.

"Tunney seemed to have an insatiable appetite to view and obtain the worst, most degrading and horrific images. Behind each of these images is a victim of an abhorrent crime. Cheshire Police′s Paedophile Unit are dedicated to working with other forces and agencies to stop the abuse of vulnerable children and bring to justice those who take part in this deplorable crime."

Nantwich Police warn shoppers to be vigilant

 

Nantwich Police are urging shoppers to think before they punch their pin number into a chip and pin device.

Not doing so could cost them a small fortune.

PC Chris Wynn-Jones said: "We′re urging shoppers to be vigilant following distraction thefts at supermarket car parks in Nantwich, the latest being on Wednesday 14 March 2012."

In this latest incident the elderly victim had been shopping in the supermarket and had got to her car when she was stopped by a woman who insisted she give her directions.

She left her bag in her unlocked car while she gave directions. When she got home she discovered her card had gone and then discovered money had been taken from her account.

PC Wynn-Jones said: "As in all the incidents someone will have been watching over the woman′s shoulder as she typed in her pin number at the till.

"Then a second offender will have been rooting through the handbag to get her card while the first offender distracted her with requests for directions."

To make life difficult for these distraction thieves, shoppers are urged to check no one is watching when they punch their pin into the chip and pin device and always attempt to conceal the number.

PC Wynn-Jones added: "Also be aware in the car park. Ensure your bag is secure and keep it with you at all times. Don′t leave it on the car seat or in the trolley while you load your shopping into the boot.

"Anyone who sees someone acting suspiciously in a supermarket and its car park should contact police on 101.

"While we make every effort to hunt down the offenders and bring them to justice, we would urge people to be vigilant."

Parkers Road Travellers site

I am once again calling on Cheshire East Council to immediately withdraw the planning application for the travellers’ site on Parkers Road.  The Council’s own Strategic Highways and Transport manager is saying the application plan falls short of acceptable design standards and recommends the planning permission be refused on Highway safety grounds.

In general the planning statement makes a number of claims regarding the agreed highways position, but whilst this advice was given by the strategic housing manager the application does not demonstrate full compliance.

To me, It is clear that if the Council were to go ahead and build this site, they would be putting at risk the lives of local residents and the lives of any occupants of the site, who have the right to live in a safe environment. It is time the Council admitted they have made a mistake, withdraw this planning application, and look for a suitable site where the traveller community can live safely.

I am amazed the Council has spent so much public money on this site and on the application, when they should have consulted the Highways engineers at the beginning, so that all this cost to the public purse could have been saved.  I wish to congratulate the protest group for waging such a professional campaign against the proposed site. Hopefully the Council will now see sense and drop the plan.

Derek Bebbington

Cheshire East Councillor - Leighton Ward

Crewe Charter Trustee

Tel:     01270 522902

E-mail:           derek.bebbington@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Police Warning

Police have issued a warning after a quantity of medication was stolen during a burglary in Crewe.

The items were taken from a property in Broughton Lane, Wistaston, on 7th March between 10.30am and 3pm.

The items stolen include very strong prescribed medication, which was in 4 pre-filled syringes that were packaged individually.

The prescribed medication is called Metoject 20mg/ml and is used to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis.

It could be dangerous if taken, and if found, should be handed in to your nearest medical establishment or police station.

If anyone has information in relation to the whereabouts of the stolen medication or the burglary they are urged to call Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 513 of 7th March.

Information can also be passed on anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.

Cheshire East Council acts to boost affordable housing

 

Cheshire East Council joined forces with social housing providers to deliver up to 50 new affordable homes across the Borough.

The Council has taken the strategic decision to increase the provision of affordable housing by utilising some of its own land assets.

Cheshire East is committed to improving community life and working with partners to develop an effective housing strategy.

Although new homes are urgently required to support the economic growth of Cheshire East, the downturn in the economy has had a significant negative impact on levels of new house building. This is particularly acute in the provision of affordable housing – resulting in a major shortfall in availability.

As a result, the Council has undertaken a pilot scheme to work with housing providers to use some of its smaller surplus sites and properties to increase the supply of affordable housing for sale and rent across Cheshire East.

In 2010, the authority started a procurement exercise to select an organisation that would work with them to develop and manage affordable housing on four of the approved sites, which included:

● Lot 1: Oakdene Court, Wilmslow. A derelict sheltered block, which had been vandalised and had become an eyesore for the local community;

● Lot 2: Churchside Cottage, Macclesfield. A row of five terraced properties, which had been used as offices. It is now the intention to restore them to their former glory;

● Lot 3: The Moss, Congleton Road, Macclesfield. Two semi-detached properties used as offices, which will be restored to provide much-needed family accommodation;

● Lot 4: Westview, Crewe. A former care home, which was no longer fit for purpose and required redevelopment.

A total of 14 organisations expressed an interest in developing the sites, with five of these progressing to the shortlist stage. Following a rigorous assessment process, Equity Housing Group was selected to develop Lots 1, 2 and 3 and Harvest Housing Group to develop Lot 4.

It is envisaged that the four sites will create about 50 units of accommodation, which will be completed by early 2014.

All the properties will be allocated via Cheshire Homechoice. This is the system for allocating social housing in accordance with Cheshire East’s housing allocations policy.

Councillor Jamie Macrae, Cabinet member with responsibility for prosperity, said: “The provision of affordable housing is a key priority for the Council and this announcement is really good news for the people of Cheshire East.

“This particular scheme enables the council to invest its assets in partnership with the housing sector, to provide much-needed affordable housing and provide an income to the Council for re-investment in future housing provision. 

“Following the success of the pilot, we can be confident that phase two of the scheme can proceed with the prospect of early delivery of further affordable housing provision across the Borough.

“The 2010 Strategic Housing Market Assessment revealed that, across the Borough, there is an annual shortfall of more than 1,000 affordable dwellings. While this is not a target, it is a clear indication of the level of need across the authority.

“We have 8,000 people registered on waiting lists for affordable housing and the greatest demand is for family accommodation.

“The level of Government grants available to encourage the building of affordable housing has been reduced significantly and therefore we need to explore alternative ways in which to increase provision. Using some of the Council’s land for this purpose is one important way to address this problem.

“The redevelopment of such sites will improve neighbourhoods and is another excellent example of the Council working with others to deliver for the people of Cheshire East.”

The land will be leased to the successful bidders for a period of up to 125 years for the provision of affordable housing. The Council will retain the freehold ownership of the land.

Equity Housing Group chief executive David Fisher said: “We are delighted to have this opportunity to work alongside Cheshire East Council in making a positive difference to people’s lives and communities in Cheshire.”

Harvest Housing Group chief executive Ian Perry said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to help build much needed quality and affordable family homes in East Cheshire. Harvest Housing Group is proud to be working alongside Cheshire East Council to help regenerate communities and improve people’s lives.”

Diamond Jubilee Funding a ‘Success’

 

Cheshire East Council is getting ready for a party atmosphere across the Borough, following the release of community funding to help people celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in style.

Since January, the Council has been assisting community groups by allocating funding of up to £100. The funding, which has helped encourage people to hold street parties and other memorable events, has come from the newly-formed Cheshire Community Foundation, which received a donation from the Duke of Westminster’s charitable fund, the Westminster Foundation.

There has been a fantastic response, with almost 170 parties registered across the Borough so far and the funding has almost all been allocated.

The Council distributed the grants on a ‘first-come, first-served’ basis to help Cheshire East communities celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee over the planned extended bank holiday weekend, between June 2 and 5.

The deadline for notifying the council of a public event or road closure is April 9. Cheshire East Council is urging people to log on to www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/jubilee and fill out an event notification form so that the Council can organise any necessary traffic diversions. Alternatively, contact Jane Kavanagh on 01270 685854 to discuss the event.

Just a couple of days before the royal celebrations, the party atmosphere will hot up as the London Olympic torch relay passes through Crewe, Congleton, Knutsford and Macclesfield.

Councillor Rachel Bailey, Cabinet member with responsibility for safer and stronger communities, said: “This is going to be one of the most memorable weekends of our time and so it’s a wonderful opportunity to have a party.

“We are very grateful to the Duke of Westminster for his donation and we would encourage as many people as possible to celebrate and throw a street party or use their local park or playing fields to host an event.

“We would also urge community groups to contact us with details of their event so that we can make sure all the procedures are in place for a fun and safe weekend.”

Buckingham Palace is encouraging communities to take part in ‘The Big Jubilee Lunch’,  which is all about community, friendship and fun and offers ideas on what to do and how to make it a day to remember. For more information log on to: www.thebiglunch.com

Couple sentenced for blackmail

 

A couple who blackmailed a Cheshire man over sex tapes and photographs have been jailed.
Suzanne Norbury, 11/06/1985 of Holmeswood Road, Rufford, Ormskirk, and her partner Shaun Dykes, 12/07/1962, of Holmeswood Road, Rufford, Ormskirk pleaded guilty to blackmail at an earlier hearing.
They were both sentenced to three and a half years in prison at Chester Crown Court on Monday 12 March 2012.
The victim, a 37-year-old man, had been visiting Norbury for around 18 months from 2009.
During the visits she used her phone and a camera to take pictures and video them engaging in sexual activity.
In April 2011 Norbury told the victim she had been burgled and that her phone, laptop and camera had been stolen.
A couple of weeks later Norbury contacted the victim and told him she had been contacted by a man who told her he had the images and videos of her and the victim. He told her he would show them to their families if they didn′t pay him £20,000. She told the victim that the man knew his name and where he worked.
Just over a week later the victim was contacted on his private phone by the man who made threats to release the pictures to everyone at his work if he didn′t pay the money, and he would hurt him if he contacted the police.
The victim contacted police the following day and a covert operation was launched to identify the offenders.
Over the next five days the victim had numerous phone calls making demands and threats.
On 24 May 2011, the victim met Norbury and Dykes in Ormskirk where they attempted to persuade him to hand over cash to them and in return they would hire someone to get his property back. This meeting took place under police surveillance unbeknown to the offenders, with specialist officers supporting the victim.
Dykes and Norbury were arrested following this meeting and later charged with blackmail.
Detective Superintendent Geraint Jones said: "Despite being threatened and warned not to go to the police, the victim in this case did the right thing in reporting this crime to us and we immediately launched an operation aimed at catching the people responsible.
"Blackmail often centres on an area of sensitivity or embarrassment to the victim which can inhibit them in contacting the police, but I would like to take this opportunity to stress that Cheshire Police is experienced at dealing with cases such as this and the safety and protection of the victim is our key priority. This case highlights how our expertise and sensitivity leads to positive results. I am pleased that these two have been exposed and punished for their deceitful plan as it is a serious crime which is reflected in the sentences handed down today."

Blue Bell MINI’s fundraising fun for The Donna Louise Children’s Hospice Trust

Barry Holt, Dealer Principal at Blue Bell Crewe, and Paul Legerton, MINI Brand Manager at Blue Bell Crewe, have presented fundraiser Hannah Ward-Salt from The Donna Louise Children’s Hospice Trust with a cheque for £500 following a fundraising campaign for the local charity.

The Donna Louise Children’s Hospice Trust provides a range of specialist care and support services for children with a shortened life expectancy and their families. The hospice supports children and their families with the challenges that having a life-threatening condition can often bring, and the team provide this care and support from Treetops - a purpose-built house in Stoke on Trent.

Blue Bell MINI Crewe kicked off their fundraising campaign for the charity at a recent celebration weekend, to launch the dealership’s London 2012 Olympic countdown and to raise money for a local charity, by asking customers and local residents which charity they would like to support. The programme has now been running for three months, with all visitors to the showroom being given a special charity token with which to show their support for a local cause of their choice.

The votes have now been counted and it has been announced that The Donna Louise Children’s Hospice Trust received an overwhelming majority, so fundraiser Hannah Ward-Salt visited the showroom to accept the donation for the local hospice.

Hannah Ward-Salt, Fundraiser for The Donna Louise Children’s Hospice Trust, comments: “We are extremely grateful for this kind donation from the staff and customers at Blue Bell MINI Crewe. The hospice provides vital support for local families and their children, but we rely on the generous fundraising efforts of local establishments like the Blue Bell Group to enable us to continue with our work.”

Barry Holt, Dealer Principal at Blue Bell Crewe, adds: “We are delighted to be able to present Hannah and the team at The Donna Louise Children’s Hospice Trust with this donation. The admirable work done at the hospice to provide care and support for children and their families is fantastic, and we hope to be able to continue our support of the charity with ongoing fundraising events in the future.”

To find out more about The Donna Louise Children’s Hospice Trust visit www.donnalouisetrust.org, or call 01782 654440.

To find out more about Blue Bell MINI Crewe go to www.bluebellcrewemini.co.uk, call 01270 214 800, or visit the dealership at Blue Bell MINI Crewe, Gateway, Crewe, CW1 6YY.

New Parish Grant Welcomed

 

Willaston and Rope Ward Councillor Brian Silvester has welcomed a new Parish Council Grant from Cheshire East. (See attached and below)

He said, " This grant will be well received by the Parish and Town Councils in Cheshire East. In my Ward, Rope Parish Council will receive £1,517 and Willaston Parish Council  will receive £2,407. This grant will help alleviate some of the unfairness of double taxation. This is where residents in the parished areas of the Borough have to pay towards specific services supplied in Crewe and Macclesfield, because thay have no Town Council,  and at the same time pay the total cost of the very same service in their Parish. For example, the residents in Willaston have to pay the full cost of the playing fields and allotments in the village but at the same time pay towards the cost of playing fields and allotments in Crewe and Macclesfield. This unfairness has gone on too long so this new grant is very welcome."

Cllr Brian Silvester

Willaston and Rope Ward Councillor

Tel/fax 01270 567757

Police operation in Nantwich hailed a success

 

A crackdown on antisocial behaviour and drink-related crime and disorder in Nantwich last weekend has been hailed a success by police.

On Saturday evening, Nantwich Neighbourhood Policing Team were out and about on the streets of the town to deter any would-be troublemakers and ensure that those out to enjoy a night in Nantwich could do so in a safe and secure environment.

A police dog handler and passive drugs dog supported the local officers in patrolling the streets to detect anyone carrying or using controlled drugs. Almost twenty individuals were identified as possibly being in possession of drugs or having recently been in close proximity to an illegal substance.

Inspector Dave Smithers from Nantwich Neighbourhood Policing Team said "The purpose of this operation is to keep our town safe over the course of the weekend which traditionally sees more people out and about in the towns bars and pubs. Our message is clear - drugs are a blight on our community and illegal drug use and distribution at every level will not be tolerated in Nantwich. We will use all means at our disposal to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the local community and will continue to run operations such as this involving a drugs dog in the fight against crime and disorder"

Four-star-rating for Council’s website

 

Cheshire East Council’s (CEC) website has been given the highest rating possible from fellow public sector professionals.

The Council has been awarded a prestigious four stars by The Society for Information Technology Managers (SOCITM) – putting the authority in the top five per cent of council websites in the country.

The four-star-rating was awarded to just 23 of the 433 public sector organisations reviewed this year.

CEC’s website (www.cheshireeast.gov.uk) scored highly because of its ease of use – users can complete everyday tasks quickly and easily.

One reviewer commented: “This site is really easy and simple to use…making it simple is a difficult thing to achieve and this site gets top marks. It is about cutting back and giving prominence to what really matters to people.”

The council was also praised for various online services, including the ease with which people can renew library books, pay for Council Tax, find out when bins will be emptied, or look at activities in local leisure centres.

Cheshire East Councillor David Brown, Cabinet member with responsibility for performance and capacity said; “My congratulations go to the web team for all their hard work, as well as all those who contribute to our website.

“This is a fantastic achievement and is very much deserved; the council’s website is full of useful information and services residents can apply for online. It is also accessible to all – whether you are able-bodied, have a disability, young or old.

“We are continually striving to improve our website and we want our residents to have access to the best service possible. This rating will not mean we become complacent – it means we will look to maintain this standard and look to better it.

“Changes are made to the website based on users’ feedback and making changes where appropriate. As a result, more people are visiting the site and filling in forms online.”

Cheshire East Council welcomes the views of website-users. There is a ‘rate this page’ facility on each page of the web site. All feedback is processed by the web team and improvements are made as soon as possible.

Cheshire East Council worker awarded Olympics role

 

A Cheshire East Council worker has been selected to help make the London 2012 Olympics the most successful ever.

Former schoolboy sprinter Peter Cox will be a volunteer helping to ensure the perfect preparation conditions for the Olympics badminton squads at London’s Wembley Arena.

Sports enthusiast Peter, 52, from Middlewich, who will help with stewarding and court maintenance at the arena between July 22 and August 5, said: “It’s brilliant news. Absolutely fantastic! I’m so proud to be involved.

“My family is over the moon. My partner Helen is on top of the world. She’s thrilled for me and my two grown children, Hannah and Ian, are ecstatic.”

Grandfather-of-one Peter applied to be an Olympics volunteer last year and attended an interview last October – but only recently learned of his success. 

And it is not the first time that the part-time cook at Salinae day care centre, in Middlewich, has played a volunteer role at a top international sporting event.

The father of two was team leader for security at the athletes’ village during the Manchester 2002 Commonwealth Games. He has also volunteered at several other major sporting events including the Paralympic World Cup, which is held annually in Manchester, athletics meetings and squash and badminton tournaments. 

Peter added: “Some people think I’m mad for volunteering and not getting paid – but I love it! Without volunteers, events like the Olympics would not take place and would not be the great events and success stories they are.”

And volunteering in sport is changing lives across Cheshire East.

More than 100 people are currently signed up for Cheshire East Council’s leisure development volunteer programme and they are learning new skills and making new friends while operating in schools, partner groups and clubs and community initiatives.

Ever since it was announced the Olympic and Paralympic Games would be held in London in 2012, there has been a huge emphasis to get people involved in volunteering.

And the Council wants everyone to know that it does not have to be a chore – it can be a very rewarding pastime, which could even act as a springboard to a successful career in the sport or leisure sector.

Councillor Rod Menlove, Cabinet member with responsibility for environmental services, said: “Within the last three years, about 10,000 hours of volunteer service has been given to the programme. Many volunteers have gained a career within the industry on the back of the skills and experience they have gained.

“Many volunteers have also experienced the health benefits of the programme, with many revealing an increase in their health and wellbeing through helping others.

“Volunteers are the backbone of our community projects. Without them we can not function as efficiently as a team. There will be 70,000 volunteers supporting the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and within Cheshire East we already have 125 active volunteers – but we still need more people to come forward.”

The programme has been funded by Street Games UK Ltd, which has been used to fund volunteers in leisure, sport and play to attend minimum operating standard courses, leadership courses and coaching qualifications.

And many people in Cheshire East are feeling the benefits.

A total of 203 people have at some time been involved in the scheme since May 2008, and there are currently 125 active sports volunteers in Cheshire East.

And through liaison between Cheshire East partners and the development of the Council’s leisure and play development initiatives, there are still many safe, suitable and rewarding volunteer opportunities available.

Cheshire East’s volunteering programme is also involved in the ‘personal best programme’ – a pre-employment scheme designed to inspire people to volunteer at the 2012 Olympics and to engage and lift the aspirations of the unemployed to find work.

As the scheme has developed, it has been recognised nationally. In 2010, it received the Inspire Mark award, which will run until August 2012. The Council intends to use this to promote the Games and get more volunteers involved in sport and play.

Sport England, through the Community Investment Fund, has funded a two-year volunteer coordinator post that officially started in February 2009.

To find out more about the programme, visit: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/sports

or contact the team on 01625 383790 or 07809 665229.

MP’s 114th news bulletin.

Friday 9, March 2012

Welcome ...

Welcome to this my 114th news bulletin.

The Post Office is a tremendous national asset, and I know from using local branches myself that it is an important local asset to the people of Crewe and Nantwich. That's why I'm pleased the Coalition Government is determined to turn the Post Office network around and end years of decline.

There will be no return to Labour's closure programmes, when over 6,000 post offices shut their doors, affecting the most vulnerable in society.

Before I even became Member of Parliament for Crewe and Nantwich, I ran a campaign against Labour's closure of our local Post Offices.
They closed four whilst in government: Gainsborough Road, Millfields, Millstone Lane and Nantwich Road.

Thankfully the Coalition Government is committed to the remaining eleven Post Offices in our constituency.

To underline that commitment, Ministers are providing £1.34 billion of funding for the Post Office between 2011 and 2015. This will help put
the business on a stable financial footing and help modernise the network, refurbish branches, extend opening hours and reduce queues.

As part of this modernisation work, Ministers want post offices to become the natural place for citizens to access face-to-face Government services. The wide distribution and unparalleled national coverage of the Post Office network makes it ideally suited to act as a front office for local and central Government, building on its existing work in this area.

At the local level, the Post Office has recently begun delivering a range of 'front office' services on behalf of local councils.

I am confident that these changes will make the Post Office an even stronger retail partner for Royal Mail, and I will continue to support
Ministers as they explore new opportunities for our Post Offices in Crewe and Nantwich.

Please remember, you can always contact me directly if you have any questions for me.

You can forward the bulletin on to your friends and family, who can sign up themselves by clicking here for my website.

Best wishes 

Edward Timpson
Member of Parliament for Crewe & Nantwich

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I have recently...

• Met with the pupils of the Pebble Brook and King's Grove Schools on their visit to Parliament and held a Q & A with them
• Visited Air Products Crewe factory to see first hand how the business operates
• Spent time with the pupils at Kings Grove School to help them on a one to one basis with their reading
• Met with NSPCC to discuss how to improve support for children in care in situations where they are reunited with their families
• Asked for a debate on how the Government's £330million efficiency savings has enabled it to spend more on the NHS including £25.2 million on new units and equipment at Crewe’s Leighton hospital. To read more click here

This weekend I will be...

• Holding a surgery at the Morrisons in Crewe
• Attending the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce's Annual Dinner

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Westminster Report

Read my most recent Westminster Report

Click here or on the image

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Photos & Video ...

Edward with the Pupils of the Pebble Brook and King's Grove Schools on their visit to Parliament

You can view all my photos and video at edwardtimpsonmp.com

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Community News

Community & Voluntary Services Cheshire East

Looking to find opportunities to help out in the community? CVS (Community & Voluntary Services) Cheshire East is a Registered Charity whose aim is to be valued as the leading support and development organisation for the Voluntary and Community Sector in Cheshire East.

The CVS's volunteer  team can support you in several ways:

• Help you to find a suitable volunteer role
• Help organisations to find suitable volunteers
• Encourage best practice in volunteer management
• To promote volunteering and the added value that it brings to our community

To find out more visit their website by clicking here
Do you have community news to share? Email me and it could be here too!

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People of Crewe vote resounding 'yes' for a town council

Crewe Chronicle

THE people of Crewe have voted a resounding ‘yes’ for the formation of their own town council.

The results of the public ballot were revealed in the town square yesterday, where it was announced that a total of 10,810 residents felt the formation of a single town council was the right thing for Crewe.

This was the decision of almost nine out of 10 respondents (88.5%). The number of people voting ‘no’ came to just 1,390.

Speaking as the news was officially announced Cllr Michael Jones said: “This is a resounding vote. The work of the governance committee has been fantastic. Now we can move forward.”

But despite the clear consensus among voters, the turnout for the ballot was just 32% of the 37,750 electorate. This means the total percentage of the electorate voting for a town council was just 29%.

Cllr Jones added: “We always said this was an important time for the people of Crewe and, while it would have been nice to see more people voting, I’d like to thank them all for their input.

“It shows the vast majority of people who voted want more local representation so the town is placed in a stronger position to be able to manage certain services and assets, such as Crewe Market Hall, in future.

“The people responding to the ballot clearly want a town council, and if it is eventually formed, Cheshire East looks forward to working with its elected members in working together to secure an even brighter future for Crewe.”

The Crewe governance review sub-committee will meet on March 13 to consider the referendum results and discuss the next steps.

A final draft recommendation for the outcome of the review will then be passed to a full meeting of council in April or May, before a three-week second wave of consultation begins. A final decision is expected by August.

Responding to the news yesterday, MP Edward Timpson said: “The people of Crewe have indicated they want more control over their local governance, but at the same time they were not explicitly told they would have to pay for it in extra council tax.

“It’s impossible to estimate at this point how much that might be, and in the middle of an economic downturn it is worth looking at the other cost effective community governance options available to the council to implement.

“Crewe people want a voice in local government and well-run services, not unnecessary tax rises and more politicians.”

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Crewe gypsy site campaigners say they have concrete evidence of plan's flaws

Crewe Chronicle

CAMPAIGNERS against the council’s proposed Gypsy site in Crewe say they’ve found concrete evidence the plan is ‘seriously flawed’.

They believe they have come up with a ‘defining document’ to suggest the Parkers Road site is too small for its intended purpose, and could end up putting tenants’ lives at risk.

Members of Crewe Against Traveller’s Sites (CATS) are once again urging the council to withdraw the plans immediately.

Aided by Government guidance on good design practice for Gypsy sites, the document centres on the site’s unsuitability to house 10 pitches and an amenity block.

It states: “Using measurements on the plans, the pitch for each static is only seven metres long. Government guidance states the site should be capable of providing sufficient space for the average-size trailer of up to 15m.

“Thus, the pitches are of insufficient size to accommodate the average-size static caravan.”

Concerns are also raised surrounding the accessibility for the emergency services.

The plans show the site road is only 4.5m wide, meaning emergency vehicles would struggle to pass to reach some pitches.

The document concludes: “The Parkers Road site is by far the smallest of all proposed sites. We believe the assessment of alternative sites was a sham.”

Chairman of CATS Glenn Perris said: “We believe this is a defining document as to the serious flaws within the planning application.

“The overriding factor is that this site is too small for its intended purpose, to the point that tenants’ safety could be compromised.

“It’s now time for Cheshire East to stop its arrogant march on the good people of Crewe and bring a halt to this ill-thought out proposal. The taxpayer is seeing their money being wasted on a scheme that simply isn’t fit for purpose.”

Edward Timpson MP added: “This is a fascinating and devastating technical deconstruction of a flawed planning application.

“This is clearly the wrong location, and the council should ensure the plan is shelved as soon as possible for the good of my constituents.”

The council has always maintained the site is the most suitable location and submitted a planning application on January 18.

The plans are due to be discussed at the next meeting of full council on February 23.

To view and comment on the application visit www.cheshireeast.gov.uk.

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MP Edward Timpson champions Cheshire cheeses in Parliament

Nantwich News

Nantwich MP Edward Timpson has called on Parliament to promote local produce by championing the cause of Cheshire cheese.

Mr Timpson called on Leader of the House of Commons, the Rt Hon Sir George Young MP, to hold a debate on produce.

He said: “Members may be aware Nantwich plays host to the world’s largest cheese fair, which showcases outstanding local produce including the unbeatable Cheshire cheese.”

The Leader of the House replied: ”He (Timpson) has drawn attention to the wide range of cheeses that are available in this country and available for export, and I commend what he has done to promote that fine product.”

Mr Timpson added: “Demand for cheese in this country is still high, we spend more on cheese per week than we do on charitable giving, yet we still import from France despite having a rich domestic dairy industry of our own as in the south of my constituency.

“This is really an effort to support the local industry and remind people of the hidden gem that is Cheshire cheese.”

Local cheese producers like Joseph Heler sell more than 1,000 tonnes of Cheshire cheese a year, and are capable of producing 9,500 tonnes a year.

© 2012 Nantwich News

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Cheshire East pupils missing out on millions of pounds of education funding

Crewe Chronicle

CHESHIRE East pupils receive one of the lowest funding levels in the country – with neighbouring Cheshire West and Chester getting an extra £10m.

For the year 2012/2013, pupils in the area will each receive £4695.01 in guaranteed unit funding (GUD) – £200 less per pupil than Cheshire West’s £4895.89.

The reasons for the disparity between the two authorities have not yet been made clear, with one councillor branding the Government’s funding system a ‘postcode lottery’.

At a meeting of the full council, Cllr Hilda Gaddum, cabinet member with responsibility for children and family services, submitted a notice of motion to write to the Department of Education asking them to look again at the way schools are funded nationally.

The letter, from all political group leaders, will thank local MPs for bringing the issues to the government’s attention and welcome the government’s commitment to review the funding system for schools and support an approach which provides a fairer level of funding nationally.

It will also highlight that Cheshire East receives well below the national average from the Dedicated Schools Grant, and the reasons why are not clear.

Cllr Michelle Sherratt, Labour spokeswoman for Cheshire East Council’s Children and Family Scrutiny Committee, said: “At a time when we need to invest more heavily in children and young people, it’s shocking that children in Cheshire East are more than £200 worse off when compared to our Cheshire West neighbours.”

Cllr Sherratt also said that education had become a ‘postcode lottery’ and that it is ‘unacceptable’.

The council is also asking the government to look at the funding arrangements for academies and the effect this has on local authority grants.

The letter will state that the reduction in formula grant to reflect academy conversions is not appropriate – particularly as there is no clear basis on which such deductions have been made.

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson said he is in touch with the Schools Minister about getting a fairer deal for Crewe and Nantwich schools, pupils and parents.

He added: “In July last year, the Education Secretary launched a consultation on proposed reforms to the system. Included in the reforms is the introduction of a new national formula.

“I understand that the Government is currently working on developing further proposals in light of the consultation responses, with a view to introducing the new funding system for 2013/14.”

Councillor Gaddum said: “The achievement of pupils is a priority for Cheshire East but low base funding from government is making this increasingly difficult.

“In addition, the extra money being given to academies, who predominantly have the fewest children with educational problems, exacerbates the problem.

“To have unanimous cross-party support on this is extremely encouraging and shows how important the future of our education system is to my fellow councillors.

“I hope that the Department for Education will note the contents of our letter and use it as part of their review into school funding.”

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5 ways to contact Edward Timpson

• By email: timpsone@parliament.uk
• On the web: edwardtimpsonmp.com
• By phone: 01270 501 725
• By post: 30 Victoria Street, Crewe CW1 2JE
• In person: Click here to see surgery times

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Become a waste reduction volunteer with Cheshire East Council

 

The hunt is on for new volunteers who are passionate about reducing waste in Cheshire East.

The Council would like to hear from people who can advise and empower local residents to reduce waste, home composting and making the most of leftover food.

Each volunteer receives training, travel expenses and membership of the waste reduction volunteer (WRV) reward scheme and in return will be asked to participate in a number of events and projects throughout the year.

It is a joint scheme being run by Cheshire East Council and Cheshire West and Chester Council. The next induction training session takes place on Saturday, March 31 at Tatton Park, Knutsford.

Councillor Rod Menlove, Cabinet member with responsibility for environmental services, said: “There are many benefits to becoming a waste reduction volunteer and they can expect to learn new skills, work in the community and meet new people.

“Our volunteers are an invaluable resource, providing a direct link with Cheshire East Council and local residents.

“The project is designed to be insightful, educational but, most of all, fun. It is always rewarding when the volunteers talk to us about the experiences they’ve had on the many events they have been involved with.”

Cheshire East Council is proud to have been working with volunteers who show great enthusiasm and extensive knowledge of food and home composting.

Bob Edge, from Wettenhall, near Nantwich, has been working on the waste reduction scheme for more than a year.

He said: “I have some 15 years’ experience of composting and I am an active supporter of waste reduction.

“I have recently acquired much more knowledge through Cheshire East Council’s training and have learned from the many experienced people I have met at the variety of events I have attended.

“I am now thoroughly enjoying passing on this knowledge to others. The opportunity to become a volunteer on the Cheshire project came about as I had a growing desire to work with the public and had realised that I was too old for a career change.”

Anyone who would like to become a waste reduction volunteer can contact the project coordinator on 0300 123 5011 or apply online at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/recycling

Thai Boxing Event

The Ulimate Martial Arts Club based at 198/200 Edlestone Road Crewe will be holding a Thai Boxing Event on Sat 24^th March , doors open at 5,30pm -1^st fight at 6.00pm.  

 

The event will consist of around 16 fighters , all of whom are white collared workers , who have been training for this event for the last 8 weeks.

The majority of the fighters have nominated the Douglas Macmillan Hospice as their chosen charity , and all have been supplied with   sponsor forms to raise additional funds for the Hospice .

Arron Jones , the organiser of the event said ; “ We hope to attract around 200 people to the event .The fighters have been training hard over the last 8 weeks and all are looking forward to the evening. We also are looking to raise monies for the Hospice , which is so dear to many people’s hearts .”

Arron can be contacted on 07554 736133  should you require further information.

X Factor Success for Local Singer.

 

Teenage Crewe Singer Tim Gallagher has passed the open auditions for this year’s X Factor which were held at the BT Convention Centre/Echo Arena on Saturday 3^rd March. Tim said," I was filmed singing to the crowd of audition hopefuls and then progressed through two more auditions which were held on the Sunday. I am now waiting to see if I am called back to perform in front of the judging panel and I will appear on the show this autumn."

The television show’s production team are currently touring the country holding auditions at various cities throughout the U.K. It is only the second year that auditions have been held in Liverpool and Tim is hoping to follow the success of last year’s finalists. Two of the final three boys mentored by Gary Barlow in the 2011 X Factor show were from the Liverpool auditions.

Cllr Brian Silvester said, "I am sure we all wish Tim every success and look forward to voting for him if he progresses further. He is an excellent singer and a potential winner of the competition."

Contact Tim on  07817267380

Sign Will be Moved to Help Willaston Bloom.

Willaston and Rope Borough Councillor Brian Silvester has managed to get the Council to promise to move a 'Willaston' sign a short distance to allow more space for a flower feature. He said," The Chairman of Willaston in Bloom, Parish Councillor Wayne Lewis contacted me about this.( See below) The sign is at the junction of Wistaston Road and Crewe Road. This improvement will brighten up one of the main entrances to the centre of the village and make it more attractive. I am pleased that the Cheshire East Council could help in this way. I also pay tribute to the Willaston in Bloom volunteers who do so much to make Willaston such a beautiful place to live."

Brian Silvester