New Singers Wanted

Reporter Jonathan White

 

The Wistaston Singers are on the lookout for new members. They are particularly interested in finding new sopranos and tenors, but any new members are welcome. Choir rehearsals take place on Wednesday evenings from 7:30pm to 9:30pm at the newly refurbished Nantwich Parish Hall, opposite St Mary’s Church.

The Wistaston Singers were originally formed by members of the choir at St Mary's Parish Church Wistaston in May 2000 and now numbers some thirty-five members singing four-part harmony music. The choir perform a variety and eclectic choice of music ranging from choral church music and anthems, Gilbert and Sullivan items, music from the shows, music from modern composers such as John Rutter covering from the 17th century to the 20th century. They perform up to five concerts a year at various venues in south Cheshire and beyond and are also invited to perform at weddings in the area. The choir members are amateur singers who rehearse and perform purely for their enjoyment of music and singing.

Further details may be obtained from Choir Secretary Jill Oakes, Tel: 01270 662940 and email: jillandjohnoakes@uwclub.net

Duck Race

Reporter John White,

The Wistaston Memorial Hall & Community Centre’s 17th ‘Annual Charity Duck Race and Children's Model Boat Race’ took place on Saturday 1^st September at the Joey the Swan Recreation ground in Wistaston. The event, which was sponsored by an anonymous sponsor, Wistaston Community Council and the Crewe Cine & Video Club, was officially opened by the Wistaston Rose Queen (Daisy Wybrow) and her Attendant (Emma Bishop). Members of the Hall's management committee organised the event. 53 model boats were entered into the Children's Model Boat Race and 800 duck race tickets (£1 each) were sold and entered into the Duck Race. All proceeds go to the Wistaston Memorial Hall & Community Centre, Church Lane, Wistaston. There were also fourteen stalls featuring local charities and organisations. Several hundred people attended the event, which took place in glorious sunshine. The Wistaston Memorial Hall’s committee sincerely thank all those who helped to make the event a success in many ways, which raised £750.

Here are the results in full:

Children's Model Boat Race (53 model boats entered):

a) Best designed children's model boat (judged by Wistaston Rose Queen, Daisy Wybrow and her Attendant, Emma Bishop):

1st – Harry Robbins with his Pirates' boat.

2nd – Natalie Rea with an Olympic Canoeist.

3rd – Imogen and Sophie Owen with Noah's Ark.

b) Children's Model Boat Race (organised by David and India Sloan):

1st – Charlotte Rea - wins £5, plus trophy donated by Herbert Locke MBE.

2nd – Jamie Birchenhough.

3rd – Hayley Rossiter.

Last year’s boat race winner - Daisy Taylor - was presented with a cup donated by Herbert Locke MBE.

Duck Race (800 tickets sold):

1st – No. 452 – Rawdon Jones - wins £100, plus trophy donated by Les Fothergill.

2nd – No. 431 – Josephine Kenyon - £50.

3rd – No. 118 – Mrs M Dodd - £25.

A special guest was Alderman Ray Stafford MBE.

Event organiser John White said, "This was another successful community enterprise for Wistaston. The Memorial Hall's officers worked so hard to run the event. People who visited were most generous to buy so many tickets. I was pleased to hear that the stall holders and charities did so well. The children were excited and enthusiastic to see their boats in action. It was a quacking great success."

Man charged with Cranage murder

 

A 47-year-old man from Hale in Altrincham is appearing at Crewe Magistrates this morning (Wednesday 5 September 2012) after being charged with the murder of Diana Lee in Cranage last month.

Following an investigation by Cheshire Police, David Ryan was charged with murder and remanded in custody to appear this morning.

Diana (54) was found in the garage at her home in Byley Lane, Cranage on the morning of Thursday 9 August following reports of a fire.

PCSOs Beat 'Summertime Blues'

 

Cheshire Police Authority has praised the role Police Community Support Officers play in preventing summertime crime and disorder.

Many Police Community Support Officers help to organise sports events and other activities for children and teenagers.

Speaking at a meeting of the Police Authority′s Engagement Committee, the Committee Chairman, Moira Chapman, said the activities were an important factor in motivating young people and steering them away from potential problems.

"We don′t want to suggest that young people who are left to their own devices during the summer holidays would automatically cause trouble, but some good, positive, healthy activities keep them happy and make sure they don′t drift towards anything negative and destructive," she said.

Michael Darby, a member of the committee, provided what he described as a typical example of the action being instituted by Police Community Support Officers.

He said, "Four PCSOs in Northwich obtained sports equipment from Sport Cheshire. They turn up on the estates; simply take the goal posts, or whatever equipment is to be used, out of a bag and provide instant sports events for local young people.

"That sort of action has really positive effects. It provides something for the youngsters to do and the long-term benefit is that the children and teenagers look on the police as people who are there to help and advise; not as the enemy."

Moira Chapman added, "This is part of a change we have seen since Police Community Support Officers were introduced nine years ago.

This approach is resulting in a different type of respect for the work the Constabulary does. From a situation where police officers and staff were seen as being detached and remote, they are now regarded as being totally involved in local communities; part of people′s everyday lives."

Olympic Homecoming Pulls Crowds

Hundreds of cheering crowds turned out to see gymnastic heroine Beth Tweddle return home to Bunbury in a blaze of glory yesterday (Sunday, September 2).

The 27-year-old made gymnastic history for Team GB during the London 2012 Olympics as Britain’s most successful female gymnast.  Yesterday marked a special celebration in her honour and was organised by Bunbury Parish Council and Cheshire East Council.

Cheshire East Council Leader, Councillor Michael Jones presented her with a street sign emblazoned ‘Beth Tweddle Close’ - a mock-up of a real street name that will be used in a new housing development in Bunbury village.

Cheshire East Mayor, Councillor George Walton handed her a cut crystal bowl and announced his proposal to put Beth forward for ‘freedom of the borough’ – the greatest accolade Cheshire East Council can bestow upon an individual.

Beth, whose career spans around 14 years, told the crowds: “Winning the bronze medal was the greatest moment in my life, it didn’t matter that it wasn’t gold.

“I am absolutely delighted to be back home - how amazing that you’ve all made the effort to come out and see me.”

Councillor Jones added: “We are extremely proud of Beth as she represents all that is good about being competitive - her achievements deserve no less.

“She has made us truly proud in Cheshire East and I am delighted to present her with a street sign in her honour.”

The Mayor added: “I will be recommending that Beth be given freedom of the borough as her achievements have well and truly earned it.”

MP,s 127th news bulletin

Monday 3, September 2012

Welcome ...

Welcome to this my 127th news bulletin.

Only the other weekend Crewe-based gymnast Vicky Perez, trained at the Cheshire Academy of Integrated Sport and Art in Crewe, who has muscular dystrophy and had the honour of carrying the Paralympic flame through Ellesmere Port. Since then we have seen ParalympicsGB do a fantastic job already surpassing the medal haul of Beijing. Our team has won 16 gold, 24 silver, and 14 bronze medals in swimming, cycling, athletics, as well as many other sports. Whilst we can be proud of all our Paralympic Athletes the performances of Ellie Simmonds in the pool and David Weir in wheelrace racing have been the most inspiring for me as examples of sheer determination delivering superb results.

Just like the Olympics we’re going to see international friendship, fierce rivalry and the sheer sporting genius of athletes who have trained day-in, day-out for years. But we can’t deny there’s something particularly inspiring about the Paralympics. Being a Paralympian takes an extra measure of guts and steel. A lot of the athletes in London would have been told from a young age about everything they can’t do – and they decided to throw everything into what they can do, whether that’s smashing a ball over the net, running on prosthetics or swimming faster than the rest.

That example – of overcoming the difficulties you’ve been handed, pushing yourself to the limits, going way beyond the expectations others have set for you – is truly inspiring. We wish everyone competing in these Games – and particularly ParalympicsGB – the best of luck. The whole country will be cheering them on.

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 Inspector Dave Smithers at Nantwich Police Station and went out on patrol with PC Amy Fletcher. many thanks to PC Fletcher for taking me under her experienced wing and letting me join her on her shift on a friday night in and around Nantwich
• Held an On Your Street session on Welsh Row in Nantwich, meeting local residents and helping them with and issues they raised with me
• Held a surgery at my office in Crewe
• Welcomed the Friends of Cheshire to my office in Crewe. The group is an initiative that I have been working on to draw together some of the most influencial people in the area so that we can all work together in the interest of Cheshire's residents
• Opened the Little Angels Nursery in Regents Park Nantwich
• Visited Keith Webb, Managing Director of Bargain Booze, at his shop in Crewe to hear about the challenges that duty fraud is causing businesses
• Met with Cllr Janet Clowes and John Nicholson, Director of Places at Cheshire East Council, to discuss the progress of the improvements to the infrastructure in Crewe
• Attended the Prince's Trust Presentation Evening Dinner
• Made a number of house visits to assist, guide and support local residents with problems they are experiencing
• Supported Nantwich in Bloom by attending a judging session with the RHS judges
• Opened the newly renovated Guy Harvey Youth Club in Nantwich with Mayor Graham Fenton. The club was worked on by young people participating in the National Citizens Service scheme
• Visited Nantwich Vetinary Group to learn more about the work they do caring for household pets, horses, and farm animals in the local area
• Met with John Dunning & Paul Coleman of the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce to discuss how local business growth can be assisted
• Opened the Little Angels Nursery in Regents Park Nantwich
• Visited Keith Webb, Managing Director of Bargain Booze, at the shop to hear about the challenges that duty fraud are causing businesses

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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 opening the newly renovated Guy Harvey Youth Club in Nantwich joined by Mayor Graham Fenton

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

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Community News

Nantwich Food & Drink Festival 2012

Yes this years festival is almost here and the team is working flat out to fine tune all area’s of the festival to ensure your visit is exciting and rewarding.

The main event area’s are The Civic Hall, The Bowling Green car park venue, Live food theatre in town square and the White Horse car park for the children’s events.

The Market Hall will be open in line with the weekend opening times and there will be stalls and events in the Cocoa Yard off Hospital street as well as the Methodist Church, also in hospital street.

There will many events being delivered by local traders to add to the festival atmosphere so click here to visit the events page or click here to visit the live food theatre schedule.

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Nantwich MP joins campaign to stop widespread development around town

Crewe Chronicle

NANTWICH MP Edward Timpson has joined the fight against widespread development in and around Nantwich.

Mr Timpson was in Stapeley on Saturday launching a petition alongside Cheshire East ward councillors Andrew Martin and Peter Groves, and they were joined by scores of campaigners.

It’s in response to a number of large-scale housing schemes proposed for the area.

Muller Homes is undertaking a public consultation exercise in relation to proposals for about 600 homes on fields south of the town, while there are also plans for 140 and 300 houses on the site of the former Stapeley Water Gardens on London Road.

Mr Timpson told the Chronicle he hoped the campaign would gather enough momentum to have an impact when formal bids are discussed by planners in the coming months.

He said: “We’re making a statement about the groundswell of objection there is in the Stapeley community, but also to giving those who live locally a chance to find out more and sign the petition.

“There’s an issue about development in Stapeley generally but the focus is on the current applications at Stapeley Water Gardens and the Muller application.

“The level of objection is a highly important factor. If you have hundreds, if not thousands, of local residents making the effort to object to this application it would be absurd if that was simply ignored as part of the decision-making process.

“Muller has already refined its plans so clearly the campaign has already had an impact, but many of the original concerns still remain.”

Cllr Martin pointed to the level of development in Stapeley in the past 10 years and is adamant the area has reached a ‘tipping point’.

He said: “Anyone who lives in this area will know there’s been massive development and the area doesn’t have the infrastructure to support well over another 1,000 houses.

“The area can only absorb so many houses and at some point we have a tipping point. People from the estate can’t even get into Pear Tree school and at certain points of the day the roads are choc-a-block. We’re at the point where it can’t take anymore.”

It is believed Muller Homes plans to submit its final plans for Cheshire East Council’s consideration before Christmas. It is potentially in competition with an even larger scheme north of Nantwich at Kingsley Fields, put together by Mosaic in partnership with Reaseheath College.

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MP Edward Timpson opens new-look Nantwich youth club

Nantwich News

MP Edward Timpson has opened the doors of the newly renovated Guy Harvey Youth Club on Birchin Lane in Nantwich.

He was joined by Nantwich Mayor Cllr Graham Fenton who has been a supporter of the Club for many years.

Thirteen young people from the Crewe & Nantwich area aged 16 and 17 decided to deliver a social action project for their local community by giving up 60 hours of their time to help rejuvenate the club.

The idea was also part of their National Citizen Service.

The group has successfully repainted and spruced up the interior, brought in new furniture and cleaned up around the buildings.

It’s hoped the refreshed facility will attract more young people and build on activities already taking place, including karate and dance.

Mr Timpson said: “I saw last summer in Crewe how the Government’s new National Citizen Service has given many of our young people the opportunity to experience the thrill of making a positive contribution to their local community.

“This project in Nantwich is a prime example of just that.

“Congratulations to the group for embracing the programme and for demonstrating what can be achieved with a little team work and a sense of community pride.

“Let’s hope this leads to the club becoming a focal point for young people in Nantwich.”

Calvin Latham, who organised the opening, said: “I’m really pleased with how the launch went as it was a really fun day, it was great to have Edward and Graham there to join in with the festivities and to have them appreciate our hard work.

“Hopefully we will be seeing many new faces around the club soon.”

The Guy Harvey Youth Club has activities for young people three nights every week – Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday 6.15pm to 8.30pm.

There are regular film nights, football and pool tournaments, darts, basketball and fashion shows, organised by youth leaders, Sonia O’Hara and Dave Short.

There’s a small coffee bar for refreshments and trips such as canal boat weekends and visits to Alton Towers are laid on when funds permit.

The Guy Harvey Youth Club caters for all young people in the Nantwich area, as long as they are between 13 and 18.

The club can be contacted on 01270 625581 or visit www.southcheshirecvs.org.uk/community/commgroups/guyharvey.htm

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MP Timpson and councillors back petition against “Nantwich South” plans

Nantwich News

Dozens of campaigners gathered with local councillors and MP Edward Timpson to launch a petition against a massive Nantwich housing development.

Hundreds of residents have already objected to Muller Property Group’s bid to build a 1,000-home “Nantwich South” site in Stapeley.

Many more signed the petition today (July 14) alongside Mr Timpson and Cheshire East councillors for Nantwich South Andrew Martin and Peter Groves, outside the shopping arcade on Stapeley’s Cronkinson Farm estate.

Campaigners fear the plans would cause too much pressure on already busy road networks, increase pressure on stretched services like schools and doctors, and lead to a loss of valuable green space.

Mr Timpson told NantwichNews: “This development has been on the radar of local residents for quite some time, and now it is reaching a crescendo.

“It is clear to me that this is not just a handful of people objecting, this is a widespread view across the whole community that this is the wrong application in the wrong location.

“It is incumbent on me as their representative to ensure that their voice is heard.

“The purpose of today is to raise people’s awareness of the application, but also for people to show support for the “Protect Stapeley” campaign which has been going on for a few months.”

The petition already has 500 names, and the campaign group believes they will gather thousands more.

“The principle concern remains the impact on the road network, which is already under considerable strain. This is what residents fear most,” added Mr Timpson.

Nantwich Town Council believes the proposed development near Reaseheath College, north of the town, is a more viable option for providing additional housing needs.

Nantwich South and Town Cllr Andrew Martin said: “There are massive issues with the Muller proposal, on infrastructure, schools, transport, doctors etc.

“I don’t see how the transport in and out of such a large development can be viable.

“This sort of mass development will see Stapeley not as a green and pleasant land but as one large housing estate. If we keep building on land we’ll end up in Stafford!”

He backs calls to support the Reaseheath development as it would be closer for people to walk into town and be on the right side of the railway.

Muller Property Group say they plan to submit an initial outline planning application to Cheshire East Council in August and hold a further public consultation exhibition.

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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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Keep it Green Cheshire Campaign

 

8 local action groups have joined forces to form the keep it Green Cheshire Campaign. We feel that working together as one large group gives local people a bigger voice and by supporting each other, we will become stronger and will be better placed to protect our countryside from housing developers.
The Keep it Green Cheshire campaign will work with all groups by giving them help, support and advice.  We would like to invite all local groups to join us and make a stand against development in the countryside, so that it may be preserved for future generations.
We ask people to support our campaign when we are in Crewe town centre on Wednesday the 5th September and in Nantwich town centre on Saturday the 8th September, when we shall be there with our petitions.
We also ask people to respond to the council consultation on the town strategies and ask that the Green Gaps are protected and that Green Gap status be conferred on the countryside around the Leighton area by using the contact details below.

Councillor Derek Bebbington

E-mail:      ldfconsultation@cheshireeast.gov.uk                                                                             Post:       Freepost RSRX-YYYE-AYRS, Spatial Planning, Cheshire East Council, Westfields, Middlewich Road, SANDBACH, CW11 1HZ.                                                           Online:    Via the consultation portal at www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/localplan

Contact us on:
Email: KeepitGreencampaign@hotmail.co.uk
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KeepitGreen01        @KeepitGreen01
Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/keepit.green.125

PPI Scam

We have recently had a victim of a door to door salesperson stating they were from "claimline" a PPI company.The victim has then filled out her details and she has then 6/8 weeks later received a phone call from a PPI Company who have advised her to take out £600 in UKASH vouchers and they will give her £2400.
She has done this, given them the voucher numbers and is now down £600.
This is a scam that London Police have issued a warning out about. Residents in Cheshire are now also being targeted.

Incident in Underwood Lane

A sad incident happened in Underwood Lane at 3 o'clock when two fire engines Ambulances and Police cars block off the lane for an hour. An old man Les from Underwood Lane had a fire in his house its not clear how this started but he may have done it him self as he was drunk. Its a sad case as he lost his young daughter to Anorexia  a few years ago and he hasnt got over it. He lives alone and had to sell his house and should move to a flat any time now. This has brought back memories and he feels is leaving her behind. This has lead to depression and drinking he has also been coughing up blood and he fears he has cancer and is afraid to go to hospital so he drank. He has had similar incidents in the past few weeks and Police had to be called.

They got him out of the house but he refused to go to hospital and myself and others talked him around, he was holding onto this dog and the Police etc wouldnt do anything in case they got bit. The question now is what will happen they may section him to force treatment on him but then after 28 days he would be back again so its not the real answer. Last time the Police smashed his window to get in but it was never repaired which is a disgrace as he is a 74 year old man. We got him in the ambulance without the need for the Police to drag him in apparently he had been sleeping in the shed. Lets hope he is ok and get help his family are no were to be seen but you can bet they would turn up if he died

Homecoming for Olympian

 

Cheshire’s very own Olympic champion gymnast, Beth Tweddle, will be greeted with a colourful homecoming celebration this Sunday (September 2).

Hundreds of flag-waving well-wishers are expected to converge on the Pavilion, in Hurst Close, Bunbury, between 3pm and 5pm, when the Mayor of Cheshire East Council, Councillor George Walton, will announce the Council’s proposals to bestow upon her ‘Freedom of the Borough’.

The 27-year-old won her first Olympic medal at her third and final games earlier this month in what could be her last major competition before her retirement. 

Beth has made gymnastic history for Team GB during the London 2012 Olympics as Britain’s most successful female gymnast with an international career spanning more than14 years.

Cheshire East Council Leader Councillor Michael Jones will be among the guests to mark the Olympian’s achievements and will be making presentations.

There will also be a public question-and-answer session, as well as a barbecue, refreshments, ice cream and music.

Beth will also bring along her Team GB kit to display, as well as her medals, Olympic Torch and copies of her book for signing.

Academy Receives Boost as Paralympics Begin

Cheshire East Council has pledged huge support to special needs and disabled athletes right across the Borough, by finding them a brand new home.

The nationally-recognised Cheshire Academy of Integrated Sport and Arts was told it would be handed improved facilities and a brighter future, following a key decision during the Council’s recent Cabinet meeting.

The charitable academy, which has built up a centre of excellence for athletes over the last 20 years, will now move from Crewe’s Macon Way to the former Broad Street School premises within the next six months.

Council Leader, Councillor Michael Jones told the organisation: “You have been waiting far too long for a new home and this is unacceptable and I’m only too glad that we have been able to help.

“I intend to bring more facilities to Crewe for these athletes so that they can go on to reach their potential and make us proud here in Cheshire East.”

Councillor Janet Clowes, Cabinet member in charge of health and adult social care, added: “This is a truly inspiring academy and one which deserves so much recognition and support for all the hard work they have achieved in bringing so much joy to special needs and disabled athletes.

“We are delighted to hand over the former school building so that even more young people with setbacks in life can take up sports and go on to represent Cheshire East in prestigious competitions all over the world.”

Co-founders Iain Chalmers, 52, and partner Jane Whetnall, 56, from Wistaston, run the charity.

“This is fantastic news - we are truly grateful to Cheshire East Council for their help and support throughout,” said Iain.

“These improved facilities will mean that we can now raise our game even more and put Cheshire East firmly on the map for sports.”

Iain and Jane’s daughter, Vicky, 33, is currently the country’s top wheelchair sports acrobatics gymnast and is also a former Special Olympic world gymnastics champion, earning a host of national and international Special Olympics titles during her sporting career.

Her achievements, honed by weekly training sessions at the Academy, earned her an invitation to carry the symbolic Paralympic torch in Ellesmere Port last Saturday (Aug 25).

At just six-years-old, Vicky was involved in a tragic road accident in Crewe and the subsequent on-set of reflexive sympathetic dystrophy, a condition that leaves the victim in constant pain, left her wheelchair bound.

Like other talented athletes at the academy, Vicky benefits from a sense of personal achievement in overcoming her physical obstacles to compete at national and international level.

She said: “It’s just so amazing. We are so happy that the future of the centre is now secure and that many more youngsters can be inspired to live their dreams and reach their sporting potential.”

The academy has operated at the Council-owned premises on Macon Way in Crewe since 1993, but now it is estimated that around £300,000 worth of investment would be needed to bring the building up to standard.

It is hoped that their new home at the former Broad Street School, in the West Coppenhall and Grosvenor areas of Crewe, will be ready within the next six months, once the venue is adapted to become a community hub involving five proposed zones.

These would include:

Zone 1: Learning Expectations Achievement and Potential (LEAP) - this is the child development department of the academy that will specialise in supporting very young children with disabilities such as autism that effect their behaviour.

Zone 2: This will be a special zone for young people and young adults with special needs who would benefit from support with social life skills. It will also be used by the wider community for activities ranging from dance, youth clubs, reading groups and choir practice.

Zone 3: This will be a health and fitness wellbeing area where many different sports for children and young adults with and without disabilities can be developed. Sports include rhythmic and artistic gymnastics, sports acrobatics, team gym and even cheerleading. This will be fully wheelchair accessible. It will allow local schools to participate in fully integrated class activities. Special activity classes are to be run for young children with disabilities aged 18 months and over to help with their development, balance and coordination.

Zone 4: A community cafe will not only cater for academy users but will also be a meeting place for people in the wider community to come together.

Zone 5: There will be a community garden outside where adults with special needs will be taught basic gardening skills.

Crewe man served confiscation order for more than £1.3m

 

A man who was sentenced to 7 years imprisonment for drugs production offences has been served with a confiscation order for more than £1.3m.

At a Proceeds of Crime Hearing on 21 August 2012, Chester Crown Court heard how Don Han Le, 43, from Elmstead Crescent, had been involved in a string of cannabis factories across Crewe.

He first came to Crewe Neighbourhood Policing Unit′s attention on 31 August 2009 when officers were called to a disturbance at an address in Queen Street.

The allegation was unfounded, but on searching the property, officers discovered a cannabis farm and Don Le was the tenant′s landlord.

DC Lindsay Woofitt said: "We were alerted again to another disturbance at an address and came across a cannabis farm similar to the first set up. Again, there was a link to Le.

"As the investigation unfolded, detectives discovered more houses belonging to Le, being rented out by Le or being part owned by Le. In total, 18 houses linked him to drug activity."

Approximately 4,298 cannabis plants, plus approximately 6 kilos of cannabis "skunk" was seized by police, estimated to have a street value in the region of £694,700.

Several of the discovered cannabis factories used illegal immigrants as ‘gardeners′. Some were juveniles who after arrest were dealt with by social services.

Adult ‘gardeners′ were formally interviewed and a number were convicted for their part in the cultivation of the cannabis.

Detectives began to trace the other offenders connected to the drugs ring and were able to gather enough evidence to charge six men, including Don Han Le.

Le was charged with conspiring to produce class B controlled drugs and acquiring, using and possessing criminal property.

On 24 August 2011 at Chester Crown Court, he was sentenced to 7 years for the first offence and 2 years for the second, with the sentences running concurrently.

Cheshire Police′s Financial Investigation Unit then commenced a financial investigation against Le to deprive him of the profits of the enterprise.

Le must now pay just over £137,000 to the courts within six months or face a further two years and three months imprisonment.

DC Elaine McIver of the Financial Investigation Unit said: "This should serve as a warning to others that crime really does not pay.

"The confiscation order has been made and although Le does not currently have the assets to pay the full amount of the order he will owe that sum of money to the courts for the rest of his life until he can repay the full amount.

"The Financial Investigation Unit can conduct updated financial checks on people and if assets or the means to pay is identified in the future then Le will be taken back to court."

DC Lindsay Wooffitt said: "Cannabis factories have come to light from either members of the public informing the police of suspicious activities at a premises, or by police pro-actively raiding premises. We can′t emphasise enough the importance of the public′s vigilance and support in identifying suspicious activity to help us take drugs off the streets of Crewe and the neighbouring towns.

"We will continue our fight to stop the distribution and consumption of drugs to improve quality of life for residents and to ensure residents have their right to feel safe and be safe."

Anyone with any information about drug related crime is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101. Information can also be left anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.

Police seek witnesses to cyclist assaulting pedestrian in Crewe

 

Police are appealing for witnesses to an assault in Crewe which took place on the evening of Thursday 23 August 2012.

At 8.54pm a 54-year-old man was walking along Queen Street with his dog.

As he approached it′s junction with Richmond Avenue a cyclist who was behind him on the pavement rode past.

The victim advised him to get on the road and to get some lights on his bike.

The cyclist turned round and punched him in the face which caused a cut above his eyebrow.

The dog while trying to defend the victim, strained on its lead causing him to sprain his wrist.

The offender is described as white and approximately 20 years old. He was with another man who was also on a bike. They were accompanied by a small child.

Both men were wearing dark clothing.

Anyone with information should contact PC Christopher Barnes at Crewe Police Station on 101 quoting incident number 980 of 23 August 2012.

Alternatively information can be given anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Paralympic Flame "Inspirational" Says Chairman

Cheshire Police Authority Chairman Margaret Ollerenshaw said it was "a real privilege" to see the Paralympic flame carried from Cheshire Police Headquarters to a sports event in Winsford.

The flame, in a Davy lamp, arrived at headquarters in a Bentley car and was handed to local wheelchair athlete Jenny Wilson, the first of three flame-bearers to carry it to the NeuroMuscular Centre, a mile away. Police headquarters staff lined the side of the roads to cheer the lamp on its way.

At the centre, local clubs provided demonstrations of disability-inclusive sports, such as wheelchair basketball, cricket, tennis and football, archery, golf, and boccia.

Margaret Ollerenshaw said, "Seeing the courage and dedication which people with disabilities put into their sport and the pleasure they obviously get from it is inspiring. Even when the sport may not be at Olympian or Paralympian level, the approach is just the same.

"The Olympic spirit has touched us all and it has been a tremendous experience to be associated with it in any way.

"A few weeks ago thousands of people turned out to watch the Olympic Torch pass through Cheshire. I had the opportunity to visit the control centre where senior police officers and officers from local councils and other organisations worked together to make sure its journey was trouble-free.

"People enjoying the sight of the flame being carried through the streets probably had little idea of the amount of work going on behind the scenes. That is always true when events are well-organised.

"It was a marvellous example of the way the Constabulary and other agencies can combine their efforts to achieve success."

Crewe officers seize cannabis from woodland in Oakhanger

Crewe NPU officers acting on information from the public recovered a number of cannabis plants from woodland in Oakhanger on the afternoon of Friday 24 August 2012.

PC Andy Kent and PC Warren Davison received information from a member of the public that cannabis was being cultivated in woodland in the Oakhanger and Alsager area.

PC Andy Kent said: "After fighting through bracken up to six foot high and searching the woodland we found 10 cannabis plants that had been purposefully planted and were quite obviously being tendered to by someone.

"They are well off the beaten track and had grown quite successfully. Someone has spent a considerable amount of their time in these woods and may have been spotted attending regularly to the site which is off Taylors Lane."
PC Kent added: "Cannabis is a Class B drug and any person found cultivating it can face up to 14 years imprisonment at Crown Court.

"Crewe NPU are committed to tackling the increase in domestic cannabis growers and also larger scale operations. I would urge anyone with information about the person responsible for this cannabis crop to either contact PC Kent or PC Davidson at Crewe Police station on 101."

Information can also be given anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Council gets behind Cheshire East paralympians

 

Cheshire East Council is wishing all of its local athletes every success at the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

Disley’s Barney and Sarah Story and Colin Lynch, from Macclesfield, will be going for gold in cycling whilst Niki Birrell, from Knutsford, will compete in sailing.

Meanwhile, Richard Hennahane, who works for the Council’s adult services team as a senior information officer at Delamere House, Crewe, will be looking to be amongst the medals in archery.

The games begin on Wednesday (August 29).

Councillor Michael Jones, Leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “What a fantastic achievement for all five of these competitors to be involved in the London 2012 Paralympics.

“I would like to take this opportunity to wish them all the very best of luck for the games and Cheshire East is right behind them all as they go for gold.

“This Council only just last week outlined its commitment to supporting sporting talent with disabilities in the area with an investment in the Cheshire Academy in Crewe.

“We are very proud of all our athletes and we hope to celebrate in style when they bring home their medals. We’ll do something special for them.”

Wistaston Village Cricket Club

Reporter Jonathan White

Matches took place at Wistaston Village Cricket Club - http://wistastonvillage.play-cricket.com/ - at the Eric Swan Recreation Ground on the afternoon of Sunday 26^th August 2012. The event was organised to celebrate the 40^th birthday of former Wistaston Village Cricket Club (WVCC) player Julian West. Julian’s father (Howard West) was a founder member and former captain of WVCC and also played for Yorkshire Colts and the Yorkshire 2nd XI. Julian travelled with his wife and three children from their home in Greenfield in Lancashire. His mother (Carol) and brother (Nicky) were also in attendance. His sister (Katie) was not able to attend as she was in labour at Leighton Hospital and later gave birth to a baby boy - a brother for Jessica! Around 100 people were present which included friends and family and WVCC founder members Rod Titus, Charles Fox and John White. There was a BBQ and refreshments along with a bouncy castle for the children. Julian was presented with a 40^th birthday cake and thanked everyone for coming.

Two Twenty20 matches were played. The first match - WVCC vs old Wistonian’s - was won by old Wistonian's. The second match - WVCC vs young Wistonian’s (Under 21s) - was won by WVCC. Bob Butland was the umpire.

The event was organised by Julian West and Kevin Jobbins. Kevin said, “We were blessed with fantastic weather. The ground was in prime condition. We were so pleased to see so many old friends and families.”

Wistonian’s interested in cricket were invited to a meeting at the Wistaston Memorial Hall on Thursday 22^nd April 1980. A group then played three friendly matches against the North West Farmers at the cricket ground behind the Peacock pub. The Wistaston team was captained by Howard West and won one and lost two of these invitation matches. In the match on 27^th July, NWF scored 109 and Wistaston were all out for 27! Progress has been made since then! At the general meeting held on 15^th April 1981 the following officers were elected:

- President - Maureen Elliot

- Chairman/Captain - Howard West

- Treasurer/Vice Captain - Roger Connerty

- Secretary - Charles Fox

- Committee members - Paul Hamer, Andrew Nicholson, Melvyn Nevitt and Mike Barnes.

Nine fixtures were arranged during 1981 against North West Farmers (2), Arley (2), Audley, Audlem, Haslington, Nantwich and Norton in Hales. From humble beginnings in 1980, the Wistaston Village Cricket Club, from 1998, has blossomed at the Eric Swan Recreation Ground into a thriving, successful and friendly organisation.

WVCC current teams consist of 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, Friendly XI (Wombats), Under 9, Under 11, Under 13, Under 15, Under 18, Girls Under 13, and Girls Under 15. The Girls Under 15 team are Cheshire champions. Three girls play for Cheshire County girls team. A Ladies team will launch next year. Coaching takes place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings during the summer. Winter outdoor nets (static and portable) are used from January to Easter. Please contact Kevin Robbins (Tel. 01270 663699) for further information.