Man arrested and stolen River of Life memorial plaque recovered - Warrington

 

A man has been arrested this morning in Warrington in connection with the theft of a memorial plaque commemorating the lives of two boys killed in the Warrington bombing almost 20 years ago.

Last month, Cheshire Police launched a widespread appeal for information after the plaque was stolen from a wall in Bridge Street sometime between 20 April and 5 May. It forms part of the River of Life - a memorial for victims of the Warrington bombing in 1993. It was unveiled by the Duchess of Kent when she opened the memorial as a symbol of continuing life.

This morning, Saturday 9th June, officers arrested a 57 year old man from the Penketh area of Warrington on suspicion of theft. Following interview by detectives, the man was granted police bail until 5th July pending further investigation.

At the time of the mans arrest, the memorial plaque was recovered in its original state.

As part of this continued investigation, detectives have released CCTV of further suspects police wish to trace. Richard Strachan, Chief Superintendent for Warrington and Halton, said "This investigation is progressing successfully and I would like to thank the communities of Warrington for their assistance, and acknowledge the continued support from Warrington Borough Council, particularly the work of town centre CCTV operatives in advancing our enquiries. I would urge anyone who recognises the men captured in these CCTV images to contact us as soon as possible"

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Warrington CID on 101.

Joint Approach to Save Lives

Cheshire Police and the North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust have begun a new joint venture to save lives.

Four defibrillators, donated by the ambulance service, are now being carried in cars use by the police armed response unit.

Constable Andrew Connor, from the unit, said, "One of our vehicles may often be the first to arrive at emergency incidents, whether they result from crime or from a road traffic collision. Because of this our cars carry a full medical pack, including oxygen, bandages, treatment for burns, and neck braces.

"We are trained to act as medical first responders and all operational police officers in Cheshire know how to use a defibrillator. This equipment adds a whole new dimension to what we are able to do.

Rob Sharples, Community Resuscitation Officer with the ambulance trust said, "We′re delighted that Cheshire Armed Response Unit is on board with our initiative to have Automated External Defibrillators available where there could be an increased risk of cardiac arrest. When an individual goes into cardiac arrest, the first few minutes are vital and quick intervention is needed to increase chances of survival.

"These machines are simple to use and will be located in vehicles. They give verbal instructions and tell the operator where to place patches on the patient′s chest. They read the patient′s heart rate and, only if needed, they will deliver a shock to re-start the heart."

Margaret Ollerenshaw, Chairman of Cheshire Police Authority said, "In the case of heart attacks or serious injury the defibrillators could easily make the difference between life and death for someone. This is a great example of partnership working between two emergency services."

Police urge Crewe residents to lock their vehicles and be vigilant

 

Police have issued a "lock your vehicles" warning after a number of thefts from unlocked cars in Crewe.

Last month 20 cars were targeted by opportunist thieves in the town, three cars were targeted on the same drive, all were left unlocked.

DI Nigel Groom said: "The majority of incidents occurred overnight and are a clear case of an opportunist thief trying door handles in the hope of striking lucky.

"Sadly in Crewe, there appears to have been rich pickings as they found 20 cars unlocked and were able to take advantage.

"While we continue to crackdown on car thieves, we urge people to lock their cars up and report to police anyone acting suspiciously in their street.

"We also advise people never to leave cash or valuables in a parked vehicle and certainly not to leave anything of value on show."

DI Groom offers the following advice:

•Ensure your vehicle is locked and secure when it is unattended - even for a few seconds. Always activate the alarm and/or steering lock.

•Remove any valuable items − such as mobile phones, laptops and cash - from the vehicle. Do not be tempted to hide valuable items in the glove box or under seats.

•Remember to remove the sat nav and the fascia of car stereos - ensure you detach the cradle. Wipe away the mark from the windscreen that has been left by the suction pad − this is a tell-tale sign for thieves that a sat nav is being used in the vehicle.

•Record important information such as the make, model and serial numbers of any valuable property so that the property can be identified if it is ever stolen.

•Consider fitting a special anti-theft number plate to your vehicle. These plates will shatter or distort if they are forcibly removed making them unusable by thieves.

•Your car keys are also important so make sure you look after them and know where they are at all times.

•Try and park in well-lit areas where there are a lot of people around. If a garage is available for overnight parking ensure that it is used whenever possible and that it is locked and secured.

Anyone with any information about vehicle crime is urged to contact officers from Crewe police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Grab your chance to take part in key Council watchdog

 

Are you interested in helping to ensure that all Cheshire East councillors uphold the highest ethical standards? 

Cheshire East Council is seeking to recruit three local people, who live or work in the Borough, as ‘independent persons’ to work with the authority’s ad-hoc standards committee.

The body will be a sub-committee of the Council’s Audit and Governance Committee.

The Localism Act 2011 places a duty on councils to promote and maintain high standards of conduct for elected and co-opted members. This includes the requirement to adopt a new Code of Conduct for members.

The Act requires that the Council also adopts arrangements for dealing with complaints of breaches of the Code of Conduct by Councillors or co-opted members of Cheshire East Council and the town and parish councils in its area. This must include provision for the appointment of at least one ‘independent person’ who will be consulted on the complaints.

Councillor Les Gilbert, Cabinet member for corporate policy, said: “We are looking for three people living or working in the Borough with a keen interest in democracy and the workings of a local authority.

“The way our members conduct themselves is of interest to many. We want this process to be an open one, therefore it is important that local people, who are independent of the Council, should be included.

“I look forward to the formation of this sub-committee in the coming weeks.”

The term of office for the successful candidates will be four years, with the ad hoc standards sub-committee meeting only as required.

Members of the sub-committee will be able to claim back their travel expenses.

To ensure independence, there are certain restrictions as to who can apply for this position – for example applicants must not be politically active or have any relationship with councillors, the Council or any of its employees. 

To check if you are eligible to apply or for an application pack, please contact Cheshire

East Council’s Borough Solicitor Caroline Elwood by phone: on 01270 686 882; by email: caroline.elwood@cheshireeast.gov.uk or by post at:

Caroline Ellwood

Cheshire East Council

Westfields

Middlewich Road

Sandbach

CW11 1HZ

The closing date for applications is Monday, June 25, 2012.

HISTORIC STONES SAVED FOR POSTERITY

   

Some London and North Western Railway boundary stones have been preserved for posterity. Crewenews.net contacted Brian Silvester weeks ago  about these stones and they have now been saved thanks to Brian and Crewenews.net

Councillor Brian Silvester said, " The developer who is developing the old LMR Club site in Goddard Street Crewe, James Duddy , got in touch with me about the historic stones. He kindly offered them provided they could be preserved. The Council has now taken them into safe keeping with a view to having them put on display at the Rail Heritage Centre in Crewe. I would like to thank Mr. Duddy and his company for their kindness, the demolition company who have carried out the removal of the stones for free and the Council officers who have worked hard to get this very satisfactory outcome to save these historic railway artefacts."

Cllr Dorothy Flude said," Thanks to the contractors for their cooperation. There are other stones that need to be reinstated, the Sackville Stones are in store at the Pyms Lane Council Depot. They were originally in the Jubilee Gardens. We need to place both sets of stones in close proximity to their original site in the town. A suggestion would be at the back of the Jubilee Gardens in the town centre."

Crewe police seek witnesses to street robbery

 

Police are appealing for witnesses to a robbery which happened in Newton Street in Crewe on 25 May 2012.

At around 1pm or shortly after, a woman was walking along Newton Street in Crewe.

As she approached the Oakley Centre close to the pedestrian crossing on West Street, a man came up to her and demanded money.

She handed over a quantity of cash and as she did the man grabbed her arm causing her an injury. The woman was left shaken by her ordeal but didn′t require hospital treatment.

The offender is described as white, in his 20s and of medium build. He had short shaved hair and was wearing a black t-shirt and black shorts.

At the time of the robbery two smartly dressed men were seen jumping over a low wall near the pedestrian crossing and a woman with a child was seen walking along Newton Street toward the West Street crossing.

Police are keen to speak to these people as they could have witnessed the incident taking place.

Anyone with information should contact DC Liz Rankin on 101 quoting incident number 482 of 25 May 2012. Alternatively information can be given anonymously on the Crimestoppers number 0800 555 111.

JUBILEE FUN GALA CELEBRATIONS

A celebration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee will take place at Crewe Swimming Baths on Saturday 16th June 2012 with a ‘fun gala’ for people with disabilities. The event is open to anyone with a disability and the participants will be given a chance to compete in swimming races or have fun with swimming aids or on the inflatable structure at the baths. The event is part of the Community Games programme that is taking place across the country and organised by Seahorse Swimming Club, Crewe. The free event will begin at 6.00pm till 8.00pm and is open to people from South Cheshire. It is inspired by the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and those who take part will be given a certificate and medal. Places are limited. 
Please contact Seahorse Swimming Club Secretary, Gareth Roberts on 01270 629958 to reserve a place.

Circle of Life Concert Helps to Raise Funds for St Luke’s (Cheshire) Hospice

The Co-operative Funeralcare Band North West performed a TV, Film and West-End Musical-inspired Circle of Life Concert on Sunday 20 May, at Centre Stage Theatre in South Cheshire College, Crewe, to help raise money for St Luke’s (Cheshire) Hospice.

The band’s Musical Director, Jef Sparkes, said: “The concert, described as a ‘Family Musical Extravaganza’ was arranged with the Cheshire Living Well Dying Well Partnership and the programme of music was suitable for all ages and musical tastes.  No matter what age, from 5 to 105, there was plenty to entertain the whole family, and it’s all for a great cause”. 

Jane Smart, Events and Marketing Manager for the band, said: “The Public Health Team at St Luke’s Hospice, who are supported by Macmillan Cancer Support, are developing an innovative ‘Living Well, Dying Well’ approach to help break down taboos and support a change in knowledge, attitudes and behaviour towards death, dying and bereavement, so that Living Well and Dying Well becomes the norm.  The concert was a celebration of this initiative, to help raise funds for St Luke’s, and it seemed only appropriate that The Co-operative Funeralcare Band North West should feature in a Family Musical Extravaganza.”

Ceri Edwards, Macmillan Compassionate Community Worker for the Cheshire Living Well, Dying Well Partnership, said: “There were over 175 people who came to watch the 27-strong band perform. There was a wonderful atmosphere and the band did us proud with an excellent set and a unqie rendition of Circle of Life.”

In total over £850 was raised for St Luke’s (Cheshire) Hospice, including £173 from cake sales and £118 from sales of tickets for St Luke’s Lottery.

To find out more about St Luke’s (Cheshire) Hospice and how you can get involved with their fundraising efforts visit: www.stlukes-hospice.co.uk or tel. 01606 551246.

MP’s 122nd bulletin

Wednesday 6, June 2012

Welcome ...

Welcome to this my 122nd news bulletin.

The Queen is a mirror of our nation – resilient, realistic, intelligent, curious, enterprising and unswerving. And this weekend she did what she does best – brought us together as a nation.

I am delighted to congratulate Her Majesty the Queen on her Diamond Jubilee, and I hope everyone in Crewe and Nantwich celebrating her wonderful milestone had a great Jubilee weekend.

It has been a fantastic opportunity to remember the Queen’s steadfastness, hard work, duty and dedication to our country over the last 60 years.

She doesn’t represent one part of Britain, but all Britons, and that is why communities like ours hold her in such affection.

Indeed, we can be proud that the steam train whistling from Battersea Bridge as the Queen passed through on her barge was none other than No. 6201, London Midland and Scottish Railway lot number 99, which was built at Crewe for the sum of £11,675 and named Princess Elizabeth. She left Crewe Works on November 3rd 1933.

And of course, the State Bentley gifted to the Queen for her Golden Jubilee has played its part in the celebrations.

So once again, I hope everyone has enjoyed coming together to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s remarkable milestone, and that you will all be just as supportive of her for the rest of her equally remarkable reign.

God save the Queen!

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...

• Joined the crowds to support the Olympic Torch Relay as it travelled through Crewe on it's way to London.
• Attended the making of Cllr Peggy Martin as Mayor of Crewe at the Municipal buildings.
• Supported the Royal National Institute for Blind People Save Our Sight Campaign.
• Held a Constituency Surgery at my office in Crewe.
• Celebrated the Diamond Jubilee at a special lunch at Brierley Primary School with pupils, parents & staff.
• Helped plant a tree for the Diamond Jubilee for Station House care home, in Crewe.
• Opened a new sensory garden at at Primrose House care home, in Crewe.
• Met with head teachers from Nantwich primary schools to learn more about how their innovative and creative partnership working across all Nantwich schools is helping raise educational standards.
• Joined local businesses, Cheshire MPs and local food producers for the Cheshire Day in Parliament - the first time any county has held such an event.

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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 at the Crewe & Nantwich Jobs Fair with co-organisers the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce

You can still donate to this year's charity, Climb, click here

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

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Community News

One in Eleven Appeal

Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust launched their 'One in Eleven' appeal to raise funds for a new neonatal unit at Leighton Hospital, Crewe.

Patrons of the appeal include Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire David Briggs & Edward Timpson MP.

To find out more click here.  To donate click here.

Do you have community news to share? Email me and it could be here too!

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Nantwich town square hosts Jubilee beacon celebration

Nantwich News

Hundreds of Nantwich children, teachers and parents crammed into the town square to mark the start of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

They danced and sang to music, listened to speeches by dignitaries and watched as a special floral beacon was lit up.

Despite the damp conditions, the event was well attended and organisers hailed it a triumph for everyone involved.

Nantwich Mayor Cllr Graham Fenton, MP Edward Timpson and the Queen’s Cheshire representative Lord Lieutenant David Briggs were among those attending.

Children from eight primary schools in the town – including Weaver Primary, Stapeley Broad Lane, Pear Tree, Wyche, Highfields, Millfields, and St Anne’s – danced and waved Union Jack flags to brighten up the occasion.

And the only two “Elizabeths” among the children – Libby and Betty, pupils of Pear Tree - were chosen to help light the beacon.

Doug Butterill, of Nantwich in Bloom, and his wife Penny, a Nantwich Town councillor, were instrumental in organising the event.

Cllr Fenton said: “It’s fantastic to see. There’s been a real buzz in the town with the music and the children, a great atmosphere. There’s a real sense of the community coming together. I congratulate Doug and Penny for their hard work on this.”

Mr Timpson added: “It’s great to see children from seven or eight schools make the effort and joining in, creating a real buzz.

“I know having  been to some of the schools in the last few months that they are really embracing the whole Jubilee event.

“It engenders a sense of togetherness, bringing the town together.

“On the back of the Olympic Torch, Crewe Alex winning at Wembley, Nantwich Town winning the Cheshire Cup, it’s a real filip for the region.”

Lord Lieutenant David Briggs said: “It’s fantastic to see so many people enjoying themselves and the enthusiasm there is for the Jubilee celebrations throughout the county.

“It has been quite extraordinary, and really shows the affection in which the Queen is held.”

Music at the event was provided by members of The Cat community radio station.

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Nantwich in Bloom to unveil floral tribute for Queen’s Jubilee

Nantwich News

Nantwich in Bloom is to unveil a unique Flaming Floral Beacon as part of the town’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

The floral tribute will be placed in the bed behind the Cenotaph in Nantwich town square, said Nantwich in Bloom coordinator Doug Butterill.

The town starts the jubilee celebrations on Thursday May 31 at 10.30am when around 600 school children will come to see the Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire David Briggs light the Beacon for the first time.

He will be joined by the town’s MP Edward Timpson and new Town Mayor Cllr Graham Fenton.

The children, to be dressed in red,white and blue are coming from primary schools in and around Nantwich.

They will be waving their union flags, singing and dancing and set the spirit for the celebrations to come over the weekend.

On Sunday June 3, the town square will be hosting entertainment all afternoon after the morning parade to St Mary’s Church from the Civic Hall (10.30am) and the church service (10.45)am)

There will be lunch on the lawns in the square, punch and judy, face painting and balloon wyzzard. Live music will be provided by The Cat radio.

Both the Nantwich Young Voices and X Academy will perform live, there will be “Merrie Noyse” live Elizabethan music by Nantwich Museum, a rock ‘n roll fancy dress competition, shop dress competition and more.

All the fun starts at 1pm and is expected to run until about 5pm.

Following this the town Mayor will again light the beacon on Monday June 4 at 10.26amas agreed with the Queen’s Pageant Master in line with other beacons being lit up and down the country.

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£2m road upgrade to help create jobs

The Sentinel

PLANS to improve access to the M6 have been unveiled as part of proposals to open up swathes of land for development.

The work on the A500, near junction 16 of the M6, will unlock the 55-hectare Basford West site to the south of Crewe, owned by developer Goodman.

The firm is now working with Cheshire East Council and the Highways Agency to secure permission for the road improvements.

Once the works are completed, the development of Basford West can go ahead with the promise of hundreds of new jobs.

Goodman won permission to develop a logistics and employment hub at Basford West in 2008.

As part of the conditions of the planning approval, the motorway slip roads and roundabout at junction 16 will be upgraded.

The A500 approach from Crewe will also be widened to deal with increased traffic from the development site.

The design also includes:

new traffic lights to better manage traffic flow around the junction 16 roundabout;

the roundabout widened to three lanes;

provision of additional lanes on the eastbound A500 approach to junction 16;

and a new built road from the A500 dual carriageway at its Shavington junction, through the Basford West site and linking into the B5071, Gresty Road.

The works could ease congestion problems which have dogged the single carriageway section of A500 for years.

Community leaders say the roadworks are the catalyst for economic growth in the area.

Councillor Jamie Macrae, cabinet member in charge of prosperity and economic regeneration, said: "Basford West is a key investment site in Crewe which will eventually deliver jobs for the town.

"We are working with Goodman to put in place the necessary highway agreements, which would then allow them to fund and deliver the road works."

Ian Pritchard, development director for Goodman, said: "Market conditions continue to be challenging over the period since we received our planning approval back in 2008.

"We welcome the commitment from the council and the Highways Agency to assist us in moving our development plans forward.

"But, with a planning framework and highways approvals in place, we believe we will be in a position to commit to the highway works over the coming months."

More than £2 million will be spent on the improvements and it is hoped work will start in the autumn.

The project is expected to take nine months to complete.

The council is writing to Crewe and Nantwich Conservative MP, Edward Timpson, to ask for his support with the design.

Taxi driver Joe Dennis, aged 50, from Crewe, who used to be a bus driver, said: "It should be done as soon as possible. It will make my job easier if I'm not sat in traffic.

"That stretch from Weston to Junction 16 can be a nightmare."

© 2012 Trinity Mirror

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COMMUNITIES Secretary Eric Pickles is urging housing associations to treat the elderly with 'enormous dignity' after the controversy surrounding Wulvern Housing

Crewe Chronicle

COMMUNITIES Secretary Eric Pickles is urging housing associations to treat the elderly with ‘enormous dignity’ after the controversy surrounding Wulvern Housing’s proposals to close Linden Court in Crewe.

Mr Pickles, who visited the sheltered accommodation complex a few years ago with Edward Timpson, was responding in the House of Commons to a question from the Crewe and Nantwich MP.

Mr Timpson told Mr Pickles how he had been helping the Linden Court residents after Wulvern Housing attempted to move them out “on just a few months’ notice in order to redevelop the site’.

“Will my right honourable friend the Secretary of State use his good offices to encourage housing associations to treat the elderly with the care, courtesy and respect that they deserve, particularly those whom they are considering moving out of their homes?” he asked.

Mr Pickles (Con) replied: “I am not sure that I need to use those powers, because my honourable friend has used his considerable influence and I now understand that the housing association is having a rethink and looking into other ways of dealing with Linden Court which I visited with him a few years ago.”

Mr Pickles added: “It is important that, when elderly persons are being moved out of their homes, they should be treated with enormous dignity, and local authorities and housing associations need to go about that task at a leisurely pace.”

Two weeks ago Wulvern Housing announced it had paused plans to bulldoze Linden Court and was going to explore further options.

Last week an independent survey was carried out.

Wulvern has promised to meet with residents within a month for a full update.

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2,000 People Turn out to Jobs Fair at Crewe Alex stadium

Crewe Chronicle

MORE than 2,000 people from all walks of life turned out in force to get a leg-up on to the employment ladder at the Alexandra Stadium in Crewe on Thursday.

Students, job-hunters and young apprentices flocked to the all-day fair – organised by Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson – where more than 45 of the area’s leading companies were on hand to showcase their job opportunities and offer advice.

Mr Timpson hailed the jobs expo – backed by the Chronicle and The South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce – as a huge success and added that it emphasised the many opportunities available in South Cheshire’s vibrant economy.

Edward Timpson explained: “I am thrilled to see my initial idea to help boost employment and business confidence in Crewe & Nantwich become a reality.

“With more than 45 local businesses and around 2,000 job seekers attending on the day, the success of the jobs fair went way beyond expectations.

“The feedback we have had has been extremely positive and already people are asking when the next one will be held.

“There were some unexpected bonuses from the day too, including one business that created new local jobs exclusively on the back of the fair.

“Although the vast majority of job seekers were from the local Crewe &Nantwich area, we also saw people from as far afield as Stockport, Telford and North Wales, showing how the fair helped put Crewe on the map as a place that is definitely open for business.”

The fair featured a distinguished cast of the area’s biggest employers including Bentley Motors, BAE Systems and Mornflake whose staff were on hand to share their experiences and offer advice.

Bentley’s senior recruitment officer Nikki Elliot said: “I’ve been thrilled with the response. We have received some extremely well-prepared CVs from people with a vast variety of skill sets and our apprentices have also been very busy sharing their experiences.”

Alsager’s BAE System’s human resources manager John Stoodley said: “We have a massive commitment to the local economy and our four-year apprenticeship scheme is a big part of that.

“I think the turnout has been fantastic and it has been a fantastic opportunity for us, and many other firms, to meet people face to face and talk about the wide variety of roles we offer.”

Meanwhile, a number of firms were actively recruiting at the fair and by 11am Vicky Sugden, creative director of At One Communications in Crewe, already had an armful of CVs.

She said: “I have an admin position available and I’ve been delighted with the response. We were a late entry into the fair and I didn’t really have any expectations but it’s been really positive.

“There have been a number of people who fit the description of the employee I’m looking for perfectly.”

Meanwhile, one local firm had even created a number of posts and apprenticeships in anticipation of the fair.

Steve Floodgate, communications director of people and site management and health and safety specialist SG World in Crewe, said: “Apprenticeship really seems to be the buzz-word at the moment and it’s a great route for people to get experience and for businesses to find and even mould great employees.

“We already had one vacancy available but we thought with this in mind that we could create a few more in a variety of roles and hopefully find the right candidates.”

Cheshire East A-Team marketing apprentice Amy Rowe, 21, was on hand to tell other young job-seekers about the considerable benefits of learning on the job.

The former Sandbach High School and Sixth Form College student from Warmingham, said: “We all know young people often get knocked back for jobs because they don’t have enough experience or qualifications.

“Apprenticeships are an amazing way of achieving them both and getting a foot on the career ladder. I’ve loved every minute of it and it’s been a fantastic experience.

“There are 30 places available every year and above all, the council is looking for people who are determined to work hard and achieve.”

Job-seeker and college student David Baggaley, 17, said the fair had opened his eyes to a number of potential career paths.

He said: “I’m currently in my first year of college but I’m weighing up my options and, if I could, I’d get on the career ladder this year.

“I came here looking at manufacturing apprenticeships but after talking to a lot of other companies, I’m really spoilt for choice.

“I’m really glad I came and it has been really inspiring to find out I have so many more options than I thought I did.”

Reaseheath College construction student Sean Smythe, 19, said: “I heard about the fair from friends who saw it in the Chronicle.

“I’m going into my last year and I didn’t think I would find much here but I’ve been really pleased and found out a lot about apprentice schemes.”

The armed forces were represented including the air cadets as well as the territorial and regular Army.

Sergeant Glen Gittins insisted the fair was a great opportunity to meet potential applicants who may be put off or intimidated by walking into an army recruitment office.

He said: “There are more than 140 careers in the army so obviously we need a diverse range of people.

“The fair’s been a great opportunity for us to meet people and let them know actually what to expect if they then decide to sign up.

“It’s all about commitment and fitness is a major aspect which a lot of young people underestimate.”

South Cheshire Chamber’s acting chief executive Paul Colman was ‘delighted’ with the event.

He said: “The turnout has been fantastic and it’s great news for the area that jobs are available.

“There is obviously a national picture which reflects the difficult times we face but locally this sort of event inspires confidence and shows the rest of the country that South Cheshire has great foundations for investment.”

Edward Timpson, added: “I want to put on record my sincere thanks to all at Crewe Alex for providing such a great venue, to the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce for their full support of the event and to the Chronicle for making sure as many people as possible knew about the fair.

“Finally I want to thank all the local businesses and job seekers who embraced the fair and made the day so worthwhile.”

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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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Crewe Brass

Crewe Brass - http://www.crewebrass.co.uk - are performing a fundraising concert for Diabetes UK on Friday 22 June. The concert will be held at St Mary's Church, Wistaston, CW2 8HA, 7.30pm start. Tickets = £5. For further information please contact Merben Music on 01270 582728.

Wistaston Jubliee Beacon

A beacon to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee was lit at the top of the St Mary's Church tower in Church Lane, Wistaston at 10.15pm yesterday evening (Monday 4th June) and it burnt for an hour. An estimated one hundred people attended the lighting ceremony. It was a clear night so the beacon would have been visible over a wide area. It formed part of a network of 4,000 beacons across the UK: http://www.diamondjubileebeacons.co.uk . Members of the Wistaston 35th Scout Group - http://www.wistastonscoutgroup.org.uk - helped to lift the beacon into place and were on hand on the night to serve food and drink. The event was organised by the Wistaston Community Council - http://wistastoncommunity.co.uk/ - with help in funding from Cheshire East Council and Wistaston Parish Council. Crewe and Nantwich CVS and Volunteer Bureau coordinated the funds to allow the purchase of the beacon.

Dane Chaplow (Chairman, Wistaston Community Council) said, "The evening was a great success and we were fortunate to have fantastic clear weather. Wistaston is honoured to be part of the Jubilee celebrations. Thank you to the local community for their tremendous support".

Diamond Jubilee Variety Concert

The Management Committee of the Wistaston Memorial Hall and Community Centre organised a Diamond Jubilee Variety Concert in the hall on Saturday 2nd June 2012 to celebrate the Queen's anniversary. A capacity audience of over 180 people enjoyed the variety of acts which had been arranged. Local talent from the Wistaston area thrilled the audience with their talent and enthusiasm. The hall was bedecked in red, white and blue bunting and the Union Flags setup by the Scottish Dance Society. A beautiful flower arrangement was displayed by Cynthia Green and the Wistaston Flower Club.

The entertainment was started by The thirty-five members of The Grove Singers under their Musical Director Jon Henderson. The programme continued with a cornet solo by Jack Gresty who has been a regular performer at all the hall's concerts. Tim Lloyd performed a monologue with a West Midland accent. The first half of the concert was completed by David Clews who played three tunes on his harmonica; as his granddaughter Megan said, "He was brilliant".

At the half-time interval refreshments were provided by Audrey Astbury and her team of helpers. There was a lucky programme prize as well as a raffle organised by Herbert Locke MBE with many prizes donated by local organisations - this raised £170.

The second half of the concert again commenced with The Grove Singers musical items, followed by Richard Batty with a humorous magic act. The final item on the programme saw The South Cheshire 'George Formby' Ukulele Society perform a medley of musical delights.

The finale saw the entire company and audience stand to sing 'God Save the Queen' led by Jack Gresty on his cornet.

The programme sales were in the capable hands of Glenys White and raised over £600.

The entire proceeds totalling over £700 were presented to Lisa Corbett from the 'Help for Heroes' charity.

The Master of Ceremonies John White commented, "This was a marvellous way to celebrate the Queen's anniversary using local talent and raising money for a worthwhile cause."

Olympic Torch shines a light on Cheshire East as it embraces the games

One flame, four towns, 34 torchbearers and around 70,000 spectators, with thousands of others involved in the event, all added up to a spectacular day for the Olympic Torch Relay Cheshire East.

The torch made its way into the Borough on day 13 of the relay and apart from the rain there was no bad luck to be seen.

Spectators determined to enjoy themselves and take part in this once-in-a-lifetime event turned out in their thousands to welcome the flame – with many in position more than an hour before it was due to arrive.

The first stop in Cheshire East was Crewe, where crowds were 10 – 15 rows deep in some places.

From there the flame snaked its way through Cheshire East stopping in Congleton, Macclesfield and Knutsford to cheering crowds and a party atmosphere.

Along the route the Council’s arts, heritage and cultural services team had worked closely with local schools, community groups and performers to line the route with live entertainment and displays of public art for the crowd to enjoy.

After Knutsford the flame made its way to Tatton Park where it was given a rapturous reception by more than 3,000 young people.

The torch was welcomed by singing dancing and samba music as it made its way around the historical mansion house.

Alongside Cheshire Police, the route was managed by around 250 Council-trained volunteers who helped to ensure the event ran smoothly and people remained safe.

There was further good news with roads reopening soon after the torch had passed, enabling traffic to return to normal as quickly as possible. The Council has received good feedback from residents about yesterday’s event.

Councillor Michael Jones, Leader of Cheshire East Council, said:

“The arrival of the Olympic Flame has shone a light on Cheshire East and its residents and showcased everything that is good about the place where we live.

“It was a great turnout and the weather didn’t dampen the spirits of those who had come out see the flame and get involved in the celebrations.

“I am sure that the day will live long in the memory of the people who came to see the flame and the Cheshire East residents who took part as torch bearers. I would also like to thank the Council staff who have been working hard for months to ensure that the event was delivered successfully and safely.

“We are committed to developing civic pride and I am delighted that so many towns and communities came together to celebrate the Torch relay coming to Cheshire East.”

The Olympic Torch travelled through Crewe yesterday (Thursday 31st May) on day 13 of its 70 day tour around the United Kingdom.

There was a real carnival atmosphere along the route with thousands of people waving their Union and Olympic Flags and capturing the moment on their phones.

In total 8,000 runners will take part in the tour which covers 8,000 miles. Organisers say 95% of the country's population are within one hour of the route, which ends on 27th July with the lighting of the cauldron at the opening ceremony in the Olympic Stadium, Stratford.

The remainder of the route can be viewed live via http://www.bbc.co.uk/torchrelay

Sandbach Town Hall transfers to local control

 

One of Sandbach’s key public buildings is now under the ownership of the town council.

The Sandbach Town Hall complex, which also houses public toilets, will now be managed and maintained by Sandbach Town Council.

It forms part of Cheshire East Council’s programme of transfer and devolution of assets and services and follows productive talks between the two authorities to complete the move, which is in keeping with the Government’s localism agenda.

Councillor Rachel Bailey, Cabinet member in charge of communities and regulatory services, said: “I am pleased that the transfer of this important local facility is complete and I thank Sandbach Town Council for its commitment to this cause.

“I am confident that these facilities will be successfully managed by the town council and we believe it is best placed to run them for the benefit of the people of Sandbach.

“Cheshire East Council is mindful that all town and parish councils need to be in a fit and proper position before they can hit the ground running with the transfer of assets and services and it continues to work positively with them.”

Councillor Carolyn Lowe, Mayor of Sandbach Town Council, said: “Taking over ownership and management of these assets is a big responsibility for Sandbach Town Council, but we have prepared well and intend to make the most of them to benefit our community.

“Plans for the town hall include refurbishment and promotion, whilst in time the market will be re-invigorated. We feel that we can provide a better service at a local level and that this will benefit the town as a whole.”

Dial-a-Ride in Congleton and Crewe Re-launches

 

Cheshire East Council has stepped in to re-introduce Dial-a-Ride service in the south of the Borough.

The service will replace that previously operated by the charity East Cheshire Community Transport (ECCT), which ceased to trade on May 16.

The Dial-a-Ride service has not been running for passengers since ECCT ceased to trade.

Councillor Andrew Thwaite, Cabinet support member in charge of the environment, said: “Cheshire East Council has acted quickly to get Dial-a-Ride up and running as quickly as possible for users.

“Customers will be able to book the service in much the same way as before and will be able to access it from the same areas. The service will also be available to all existing Dial-a-Ride members. “

It is anticipated that a new booking line will be available from Monday, June 11, between 9.30am and 12.30pm and users will need to book their transport at least 24 hours in advance. This number will be released soon.

The cost to users for the Dial-a-Ride service will be similar to that previously offered by ECCT. There will be no annual membership charge.

Cheshire Homechoice Allocations Policy Review Drop-in Sessions

 

Cheshire East Council

Cheshire Homechoice co-ordinator Marilyn Houston will be on hand to help residents find out more about the allocation of social housing in Cheshire East – and have their say.

She will be available in the reception areas at: 

● Delamere House, Crewe, on Monday, June 11, between 10am-1pm and 2pm-4.30pm;

● Macclesfield Town Hall, on Monday, June 18, between 10am-1pm and 2pm-4.30pm.

Cheshire Homechoice’s allocation policy is being reviewed. The policy determines the priority of people’s application and the waiting time they will experience for a new home.

Residents have an opportunity to have their say on what they think is important.  For example:

● Should the housing register be open to all whatever their financial circumstances?

● Should housing in rural areas be prioritised for those with a connection to that

   community?

● Should extra priority be given to those leaving the Armed Forces?

● Should we encourage people to downsize from family homes they are under-occupying   

   to free them up?

Last chance to give views on a town council in Crewe

 

The final stage of consultation on a town council for Crewe is being launched later this month.

For three weeks from Monday, June 11, residents and stakeholders in the town will have the chance to give their views on matters such as the warding arrangements for the council.

Proposals currently show there would be the following six wards:

· St Barnabas (represented by two town councillors);

· Crewe Central (two town councillors);

· Crewe North (two town councillors);

· Crewe South (three town councillors);

· Crewe East (four town councillors); and

· Crewe West (three town councillors).

There are more councillors proposed in some wards than others due to differing populations in each.

Residents living in a small ‘unparished’ part of Leighton are also being consulted over whether they want to be electors of the new Crewe council or the existing Minshull Vernon and District Parish Council.

This is necessary due to boundary arrangements which were previously set for Cheshire East.

If they opt for Crewe, they will be included in the St Barnabas ward. A ballot paper on this question is being sent to affected residents this month.

A final decision on the make up of the town council is expected in October.

Councillor Les Gilbert, Cabinet member in charge of corporate policy, said: “More than 88 per cent of those who voted were in favour of a town council in February’s ballot, which gave us a very clear message that the people of Crewe want a town council.

“Now, we want residents to have their say on the make up of the council before a final decision is taken.

“Cheshire East Council also believes those in the unparished part of Leighton should have the right to choose whether they want to be electors of the new Crewe town council or Minshull Vernon and District Parish Council. They will be given the chance to vote on this matter.”

Further information can be found at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/crewegovreview