Leader and Cabinet applauded over school transport decision

 

Spontaneous applause broke out when the Leader of Cheshire East Council announced a one-year postponement of any decision on the future of subsidised home-to-school transport for faith schools and post-16 pupils.

At today’s (Monday, July 4) Cabinet meeting, Councillor Hilda Gaddum proposed an option to: withdraw transport to faith primary and secondaries to new pupils from September 2012; withdraw post-16 transport for new pupils from September 2012; and increase the parental contribution for denominational transport by five per cent from £299 to £314 per year.

The proposal from the Cabinet member with responsibility for children and family services was seconded by Council Leader Councillor Wesley Fitzgerald.

But, after visiting councillors and members of the public spoke out against the plans, Councillor Fitzgerald announced “an unusual step” and adjourned the meeting for five minutes to consult with Councillor Gaddum and director of children and family services Lorraine Butcher.

On his return, Councillor Fitzgerald announced the postponement of part of the decision relating to the withdrawal of transport but said: “We will be implementing the five per cent charge on the subsidy. That will be effective from September 2011.

“This means that parents will contribute £314 from September, instead of the current £299. This reflects the current rate of five per cent inflation.

Councillor Hilda Gaddum withdrew her original proposal and the packed meeting broke out into spontaneous applause.

After the meeting Councillor Gaddum said: “This consultation, I know, has been challenging and difficult and I would like to thank all those who have taken the time to contribute.

“Throughout the consultation period, I have listened to and considered carefully all the concerns that have been raised.

“I would particularly like to thank those who took time to attend the Cabinet meeting today, at which, in response to the views expressed and the points raised, we agreed to pause for one year to consider a difficult task even further.

“I hope that the outcome of today’s meeting demonstrates clearly that we do listen to all views. I very much hope that the further work that will be undertaken will lead to a positive outcome.”

The proposals put before Cabinet followed unprecedented financial challenges facing councils – with rising demand for services and a squeeze on revenues.

Cheshire East Council needs to find savings of about £50m over the next few years. As a result, the Council has an obligation to its taxpayers to examine each area of discretionary activity to identify where any savings can be made.

MP’S Bulletin 87

Welcome ...

Welcome to this my 87th electronic news bulletin.

The low turnout for last week's strike action was not a surprise. There are many union members who disagree with their leadership pushing for walkouts when serious talks, set up at the request of the TUC itself, are still ongoing. As Brendan Barber himself said, the government are approaching this whole process in good faith. No doubt this is a complex issue, however I question whether strikes are a constructive contribution.

As Lord Hutton, the former Labour Pensions Minister has said in his report commissioned by the Government into public sector pensions, reform is essential and long overdue and I am confident the Government will ensure that they will still be among the very best, with a guaranteed pension which very few private sector staff now enjoy. This will be best achieved by meaningful and purposeful dialogue between all parties involved.

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 ...

• Held a Constituency Surgery at my office in Crewe
• Visited the Life Education Centre at Gainsborough Primary School and had a whistle stop tour of the shool grounds with the head Mrs Metcalfe
• Visited the Salisbury Estate to meet local residents and hear their concerns
• Hosted a reception in Parliament for CLIMB (Children Living with Inherited Metabolic Diseases) marking the charity's 10th anniversary who are based on Nantwich Road in Crewe
• Attended the opening the new Blakenhall Village Hal - congratulations to the committee and all those involved in raising the money and making it happen
• Met and sang with The Funky Choir at the Sir William Stanier School Leisure Centre
• Celebrated the passing of one year until the 2012 Olympics by attending the organising committee's Parliamentary reception with Lord Coe and Jonathan Edwards
• Attended the King's Grove School Charity Run with pupils and staff and the Gainsborough Primary School sports day
• Met with the Sports Minister to discuss the FA's decision to close the Alexandra Girls Football Centre of Excellence
• Visited Dingle Primary School in HAslington on their Green Action Day

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COMING SOON: Community News

Coming soon...

I will be showcasing the best local news stories from your own community on my website, in my office and eNewsletter.

I invite you to send me your good news stories from your community, so we can highlight the hard work of our local Volunteers, Community Stars and Fundraisers!

Look out for new announcements at www.edwardtimpson.com

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Photos & Video ...

Edward singing along with the Funky Choir at the Sir William Stanier School Leisure Centre

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

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Virgin London Marathon 2011

Raising money for Parkinson's UK in Crewe & Nantwich

In April I completed my 9th marathon, raising money for Parkinson's UK Crewe Branch.  There's still time to sponsor me on my webpage and help support a great organisation!

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Nantwich Family Fun Day set to be biggest yet

Crewe Chronicle

NANTWICH Family Fun Day organisers say they are pulling out all the stops to make this year’s event the ‘biggest and best yet’.

They have also announced that Savage Skills – the UK’s leading freestyle mountain bike stunt team – will be headlining at the event which will take place between 10.30am and 5.30pm on Saturday, July 9 at the Barony Park.

The event, now in its 7th year, offers families a free day out and will be officially opened by Nantwich Family Fun Day chairman Keith Cafferty along with Nantwich mayor Arthur Moran and MP Edward Timpson.

Event organiser Simone Cafferty said: “We’re delighted to have secured Savage Skills for our event, it’s an opportunity for Nantwich to have the world champions in their sport in our midst, and we’re really looking forward to what they have promised will be a jaw dropping display!

“We’ve tried to get a good balance of the old favourites with some new elements, so you can expect to see attractions such as the falconry display, Punch and Judy, inflatables, the fun fair, and the ever popular Oscar’s Dog Show.

“But we’ve also introduced new elements such as the mini farm, Zorb Balls, a climbing wall, and the Cheshire Police Dog Handling Team to this year’s event, so there will be plenty going on to keep all the family smiling!”

The Rotary Club of Nantwich will also be presenting the Young Citizen of the Year Award at the event.

Chairman Keith said: “This is an event for the Nantwich community organised by the community, and it’s fantastic this year to have so many local businesses and community groups involved.

“We’re very grateful to all our supporters who help make this event possible, including Nantwich Town Council for their grant towards the cost of the event, and to Lakeside Superbowl who are sponsoring the music stage.”

For more information visit www.nantwichfunday.co.uk

© 2011 Crewe Chronicle

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Crewe Rail Jobs Under Threat

Crewe Guardian

CREWE and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson has blasted the previous Labour government for placing Crewe rail jobs at risk.

Crewe’s vanishing rail industry received another blow this week after train-maker Bombardier announced it is to review its UK operations after missing out on a major contract to build carriages for the Thameslink project.

It was revealed last week that the transport firm, which operates a plant on the former Crewe Works site, had lost out to German company Siemens, which was named preferred bidder for the estimated £1.4bn deal.

Mr Timpson said: “The Secretary of State for Transport will not be surprised to hear that I believe this is the wrong decision.

“I am angry, and Bombardier's employees and management have my sympathy.

“Affected Conservative MPs in Cheshire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire lobbied very hard against this decision on their behalf, but the law was not on our side.

“In 2008 it was the Labour government that set unfair terms for this long bidding process, priced Bombardier out of the market before they had even started, and tied the hands of the coalition Government under European law.

“Labour sent the economic benefits of the Inter City Express train manufacture to Japan, and has now sent the economic benefits of the Thameslink train manufacture to Germany. They learned nothing.

“It's no wonder a railway constituency like Crewe and Nantwich chose to end its love affair with Labour.

“Gordon Brown may have wanted ‘British jobs for British workers’, but he never put his money where his mouth was. And this is the result. Again.”

Bosses at Bombardier, which employs more than 5,000 people at its plants in Crewe and Derby, said a ‘full review’ would take place as soon as possible.

A spokesman would not comment on the future of the plants or potential job losses.

But he added: “We have told our staff that we realise that this is a period of uncertainty and we will try to ensure that the review is conducted as soon as we can.

"However, we are not issuing a time scale. It's important that this review is conducted thoroughly."

The Unite union described the news was a ‘hammer blow’ for British manufacturing.

Transport Minister Theresa Villiers said in a statement that the Siemens-led venture represented the best value for money for taxpayers.

© 2011 Crewe Guardian

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Edward Interviewed by Love Nantwich

Love Nantwich

Just incase you didn’t know, our Member of Parliament is Edward Timpson, who has been MP for Crewe and Nantwich since the by-election in May 2008, and held onto the seat for the Conservatives at the 2010 General Election.

Edward is a very approachable guy and a real local figure, he can often be seen at events around the town and regularly runs marathons to raise funds for local charities, his last (10th!!) marathon was run in April with his 68-year-old dad for the Crewe and Nantwich branch of Parkinson’s UK. He is also a family man and last time I spoke to him he praised LoveNantwich saying it’s a vital resource for parents, who sometimes struggle to meet up with other mums and dads when they first have a baby. He and his wife Julia went through the same when they first began having children (Julia moved to Nantwich from Kent) – they now have three, Sam (aged 6) and two girls, Elizabeth (aged 4) and Lydia (aged 2 and a leap year baby!) all born at Leighton Hospital.

And best of all, Edward agreed to succumb to the LoveNantwich interview, which I think readers will enjoy – see below:

Tell me about your culinary skills. Greasy spoon or Masterchef potential?

Definitely greasy spoon although in an effort to stay in shape I have recently discovered the delights of grilled fish and throwing any vegetables to hand into the mixer and turning into a soup. I enjoy making the children pancakes on a Saturday morning, but not as much as they enjoy eating them.

Given the choice, what would your final meal be?

Full English breakfast

Any guilty pleasures?

See above plus Caramac bars and watching box sets of US drama series

Your house is on fire and you can only save one item – what would it be?

My family photo album

Who’s the most inspirational person you’ve ever met and why?

Can I say my mum?! She has fostered over 90 children in the last 30 years as well as adopt 2 of my brothers. Growing up in that environment undoubtedly shaped my strong sense of social justice that I carry with me today.

Life changing moment(s)?

The birth of my first child Sam in 2002. Life has never been the same again!

Where’s your favourite place to go in Nantwich?

Sitting inside St Mary’s Church with the sun streaming in through the windows

Where can you find the best cup of tea and cake?

Has to be Chatwins

Nantwich Town or Crewe Alex?

Whichever team I happen to be watching! I’m lucky to have played a few charity games at the Weaver Stadium.

Favourite book as a child?

The Twits by Roald Dahl. I defy any adult to read the first chapter again and not chuckle.

Favourite story to read out loud to your children?

At the moment any Horrid Henry story for the voices and the belly laughs. For a timeless classic Tiggers Can’t Climb Trees by A.A.Milne is hard to beat.

Favourite book as an adult?

The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

You’ve £1m to give away to a charity of your choice. Which would it be?

Home-Start – providing support for families with young children. I have seen firsthand the real and positive social impact their volunteers make through intervening early in families struggling to cope. I was happy to offer them my support by becoming their patron and running last year’s London Marathon to raise funds for their work.

If you have any issues you would like to raise with our MP, he will be holding surgeries at his Crewe Constituency Office tomorrow (Friday) between 1pm and 3pm and Nantwich Library on Friday 8th July between 1pm and 3pm. To make an appointment, T: 01270 501725 E: timpsone@parliament.uk

© 2011 Love Nantwich

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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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Council launches ‘one-stop-shop’ website for children and families’ services

 

Cheshire East Council has launched an online service to help families and carers get the help and information they need via one website.

The online directory enables people to find family services, activities and childcare services in one place. In addition, there is really useful information, advice and guidance on several related areas on the left-hand side of the webpage.

The extensive Children and Families Resource Directory can be viewed via the Council’s website at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/fidy

There are also key links to other directories, such as the voluntary sector, adult services and the NHS directory for Cheshire East, as well as important links to the Children’s Trust and Local Safeguarding Children Board webpages.

Cheshire East Councillor Hilda Gaddum, Cabinet member with responsibility for children and family services, said: “This is an excellent development which will help give people better access to information about all the children and family services available. I am absolutely delighted.

“The family information service is reliant on feedback from users to help further shape and improve its service. So, please do get in touch with the Council if there are services that you come across which are not in the directory and we will aim to get these online links added.”

In addition to the launch, a member of the family information service can also help organisations and groups with tips on how to get the best out of the online directory service.

If you think there are any gaps in the information available or feel that other links would benefit this online directory, or you would like help to get the most out of this service, contact the Cheshire East’s family information service by emailing: fis.east@cheshireeast.gov.uk

The Children and Families Resource Directory is available at:

http://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/fidy

Former Masterchef winner Dhruv Baker announced for Nantwich and South Cheshire Show

 

A former Masterchef winner will be bringing some added spice to this year’s Nantwich and South Cheshire Show.

Dhruv Baker, who was crowned champion of the popular BBC cooking series in 2010, will appear on the Dairy Crest stand in the Nantwich International Cheese Awards arena at the show at Dorfold Park on July 27.

He joins fellow top chefs James Martin and Gino D’Acampo at the event, which is set to attract an enthusiastic crowd of around 32,000 people.

The 35-year-old combines his Mexican and Indian heritage to create his own culinary wonders from a love of many ingredients, especially spices.

Dhruv claims Gordon Ramsey influenced him hugely through his passion and talent and states that as a young graduate he purchased all Ramsey’s books.

Adrian Lawrence, show secretary, said: “We are delighted to welcome Dhruv to the Nantwich and South Cheshire Show for the first time.

“We now have a trio of culinary masters ready to share their cooking secrets with our many visitors.

“Tickets are selling fast and I urge people to buy in advance to ensure they get the discounted rate.”

To win Masterchef, Dhruv served up an impressive three-course meal starting with lobster tail poached in saffron and ginger, served with a celeriac puree on a bed of blanched fennel with a buerre noisette foam.

His main consisted of venison served alongside potato, brunoise and fenugreek crust, carrot and cumin puree under sugar glazed carrots, confit chestnuts, and was finished with a venison jus.

For his third course he served a trio of desserts: pear poached in sauterne and star anise, masala chi ice-cream, and finally a chocolate truffle topped with pistachio.

Dhruv will be on hand to sign autographs, as will the other celebrities appearing at the show, which runs from 8am-8pm.

Former Coronation Street actor Sean Wilson, who played Martin Platt, will be enjoying his third successive year at the event with his Saddleworth Cheese Company.

Advance tickets are £13 (adults), £9 (senior citizens) £4 (juniors), £35 (family). Call 01270 537359 to order, entrance will be dearer on the day.

For more information, visit www.nantwichshow.co.uk

School meals price increase

 

Cheshire East Council is to increase the cost of its school meals by 10 pence from September.

The small increase means pupils will continue to enjoy nutritious and tasty lunches that represent great value for money.

Last year the authority’s School Meals Service froze prices at 2009/10 levels of £2 per meal in primary schools and £2.15 in secondary schools – despite national increases in food and fuel costs.

However, following government cuts in funding and continuing cost pressures, it has not been possible to freeze prices for a second year running. Prices will increase to £2.10 per meal in primary schools and £2.25 in secondaries.

The 10p price rise is intended as a guideline only so, while it is likely to be adopted by the majority of schools, some may choose to implement a different charge.

Councillor Hilda Gaddum, Cabinet member with responsibility for children and families, said: “Like all local authorities, we are facing increasing costs from our suppliers but our School Meals Service continues to work hard to minimise the impact by carefully managing staff and resources.

“School meals are a popular choice in Cheshire East. We serve up more than 17,500 lunches each day, all of which are freshly prepared on the premises using locally-sourced ingredients as much as possible.

“They represent excellent value for money and follow stringent nutritional standards, which mean parents can be confident that their children are enjoying a tasty and healthy midday meal.”

Pupils can select from a two-course menu with a choice of two main course meals and a pudding.

High school pupils also have the option of filling their plates in ‘cash cafeterias’, where they can buy sandwiches and select from a salad bar.

The School Meals Service has produced a leaflet for pupils titled ‘What’s for Lunch?’ outlining menu choices for the new term which also features tips for a healthy lifestyle.

Local Development Framework consultation events launched

 

It's time to have your say on shaping the future of our towns and villages.

Cheshire East Council is undertaking the next stage of consultation on the Local Development Framework, called the ‘Place Shaping’ consultation.

Between now and September, the local authority’s spatial planning team will be working closely with the people of Cheshire East to look at the issues and challenges facing town and village communities. The aim is to find out how people think the towns and villages should look in the future. This is your chance to have your say.

Cheshire East is holding several consultation events over the summer that you can get involved in. It is starting off with four Local Area Partnership/Local Development Framework workshops, at the following times and locations:

● Tuesday July 5, Assembly Rooms, Macclesfield 6.30pm-8.30pm, covering Macclesfield, Wilmslow, Poynton, Handforth, Knutsford and the surrounding areas;

● Wednesday July 6, Malbank High School, Nantwich, 6.30pm-8:30pm, covering Nantwich and the surrounding areas;

● Monday July 11, Crewe Alexandra Football Club, Crewe, 6pm-8.30pm, covering Crewe and the surrounding areas;

● Wednesday July 13, Congleton Town Hall, 6.30pm-8.30pm, covering Congleton, Sandbach, Middlewich, Alsager and the surrounding areas.

To register for one of the workshops, e-mail: ldfconsultation@cheshireeast.gov.uk 

or ring 01270 685893 with your name, the town or village that you want to talk about and the venue and date of the event that you would like to attend.

The deadline for registering is Monday July 4, 2011.

There will also be exhibitions throughout Cheshire East where members of the public can talk to us about the future planning of their town or village. These will take place later in the summer and autumn.

Councillor David Brown, Cabinet member with responsibility for performance and capacity said: “I would encourage as many people as possible to get involved in this process and have their say on the future of their communities.

“This plan will determine our development over the next 20 years so it is vital that we have as much public input as possible.”

More information on the Local Development Framework can be found on Cheshire East Councils website at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/ldf

Prepare for the road ahead with Cheshire East

 

Planning your journey has just become a little easier thanks to Cheshire East Council.

Residents can now view live map data showing traffic and travel information as part of a revamped transport and travel website.

Before drivers head out on the road, they can now visit the site and find details on roadworks, disruptions, events, car park location and capacities and CCTV cameras on the roads and motorways.

There is also an option to work out what the carbon impact is of any journey by entering details into the ‘carbon calculator’ option.

Councillor Rod Menlove, Cabinet member with responsibility for environmental services, said: “This will further enhance the information provided to residents and those travelling through the Borough to help make informed decisions when planning journeys. It should also prove useful for councillors themselves.

“The site contains information about how we maintain the Cheshire East road network and how people can report problems, such as a pothole, missing sign or defective street light.

“This is a further example of our attempts to enhance the Cheshire East environment.”

Digital warning signs found on Cheshire East motorways can also be viewed online. The aim is now to introduce further information on bus stops, gritting routes, road closures and diversions.

For more information, or to begin planning your route, visit www.cheshireeast.gov.uk and click on Transport and Travel on the left-hand side of the screen.

Major cattle showcase staged at Nantwich and South Cheshire Show

 

Breeders and cattle enthusiasts from all over the country will descend on Nantwich for one of the key events in the agricultural calendar this summer.

The annual National Brown Swiss Cattle Society Showcase comes to the Nantwich and South Cheshire Show on Wednesday, July 27 where competitors will battle it out for the coveted Cimarron Perpetual Bell awarded to the breed champion.

This year the society has further extended its overseas contacts both with regards to breed development and knowledge. The judge, Dr Anton Smit, a vet and breeder from South Africa, is looking forward to seeing the high quality of cattle on offer in the United Kingdom.

He said: “It is an honour to be invited to judge the breed in a country where the Brown Swiss are now becoming established as a mainstream breed.

“In South Africa the breed has proved very popular over recent years, as they have shown to be extremely adaptable milking cattle capable of sustaining milk production in challenging environments without a large management input.”

The Nantwich and South Cheshire Show, also the home of the International Cheese Awards, gives the perfect backdrop for the Brown Swiss Showcase.

Adrian Lawrence, show secretary, said: “The breed is renowned for quality milk production with its high protein levels, in particular, the kappa casein proteins. Brown Swiss milk is much sought after by many of the country’s leading cheese makers.

“Anyone wishing to find out more about the breed will be more than welcome to meet with the members and breeders at the show. The Brown Swiss Cattle Society will have a stand at the event.”

Meanwhile, a record number of different breeds have been recorded for the show’s sheep section, with first-time appearances from the Kerry Hill, Soay and Manx Loughtan breeds.

Advance tickets are £13 (adults), £9 (senior citizens) £4 (juniors), £35 (family). Call 01270 537359 to order, entrance will be dearer on the day.

For more information, visit www.nantwichshow.co.uk

The Carrs Poop Scoop one, two, three

 

Cheshire East Council community wardens are urging dog owners to clean up after their dogs and help keep a popular Wilmslow parkland clean this summer. 

This campaign at The Carrs is being launched next week (from July 6). The wardens will hold the following planned events at the beauty spot:

● Wednesday, July 6 – Raising awareness about dog-related issues;

● Thursday, July 7 – High-visibility enforcement patrols;

● Friday, July 8 – Non-uniform enforcement patrols.

During the first day of the campaign, wardens will hand out free ‘poop scoop’ bags and urge all dog owners to be responsible.

During the next two days and for the rest of the summer, they will hand out their own special brand of cheery and polite enforcement to anybody failing to remove their dog’s waste responsibly. 

Every year, thousands of complaints are received by local authorities about dog mess littering parks, pavements and public spaces.

It is estimated that dog fouling costs councils £22m a year to clean up and it remains the country’s most complained about issue, according to local authorities and MPs.

Councillor Leslie Smetham, Cabinet support member for sustainable communities, said: “Cheshire East Council believes every dog owner has a responsibility to clean up after their pet.

“This campaign aims to raise awareness of this issue and encourage the minority of irresponsible dog owners to do their duty and make public spaces cleaner and more pleasant for everyone.

“Dog waste is not only extremely unpleasant and unwelcome, it is also the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and other forms of infection, which can lead to serious illnesses.”

Councillor Peter Hayes, Cabinet member with responsibility for health and wellbeing, said: “I fully support this campaign which will raise awareness of the need for dog-owners to act responsibly.  This campaign is aimed at ensuring that our public spaces are both cleaner and safer.”

Failure to clean up after your dog is an offence and could result in a fixed penalty notice of £50. Failure to pay the fine can result in the owner being prosecuted and receiving a fine of up to £1,000.

Local ward Councillor Don Stockton said: “I applaud this initiative and hope it will encourage dog owners to be more responsible and considerate so we can all enjoy our local amenities.”

Starquest 2011

 

Crewe’s Queens Park will once again play host to the town’s very own talent show.

Starquest returns to the park on Sunday, July 10, in partnership with CAT fm and the Crewe and Nantwich Lions Association.

Last year’s winner was Gabrielle Smith, 16, who stunned the crowd with her singing performance of Tiffany Taylor’s ‘Here’s where I stand’.

However, it’s not just a singing competition, Starquest is open to people with a variety of talents.

Entrants should arrive at Queens Park by 2pm to book in and select their song. Performers can also use their own CD backing track. A category has been added this year to accommodate local dance performers.

All of the finalists will appear at the Queens Park re-opening event, in September, where they will be competing for £360 in cash prizes.

Councillor Rod Menlove, Cabinet member with responsibility for environmental services, said: “The competition promises to be a fun day out for all the family and I am confident that Cheshire East has plenty of stars just waiting to be discovered.

“Queens Park is undergoing massive improvements as part of its restoration programme and will make an ideal venue for the contest.”

Councillor Michelle Sherratt, ward member for Crewe West, said: “I would encourage everyone to come out and support this event which has a proud history in Crewe.

“Hopefully the weather will be nice and there’ll be good turnout for this year’s Starquest contest.”

To find out more about the Queens Park events programme by telephoning the Queens Park Manager on 01270 537896 or visit www.cheshireeast.gov.uk and follow the link to the Queens Park pages.

Crewe Area Assembly

 

Residents of Crewe are being invited to have their say on the future of towns and villages in the area.

The Crewe Area Assembly is being held on Monday, July 11, at The Alexandra Stadium from 6pm – 8pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.

The assembly will form an important part of the second stage of consultation on the Local Development Framework, or Place Shaping consultation. Through this consultation, the Council will work with local communities, businesses and stakeholders to understand the challenges facing each town or village and to draw up a plan for the community.

This consultation will look at the issues affecting towns and villages, before going on to look at the opportunities for development, protection and improvement.

The assembly will be the perfect opportunity for residents to have their say, and take part in discussion workshops.

Subject planned for the meeting include:

• All Change for Crewe presentation – the new and ambitious strategy to support Crewe’s economic development over the next 20 years;
• Place Shaping consultation – have your say on what you want your town or village to be like in 2030;
• Information Village – browse displays of various businesses, training and work support organisations; and
• Multi agency drop in – highlight concerns and issues in your neighbourhood.

Councillor David Brown, Cabinet member with responsibility for performance and capacity said: “I would encourage as many people as possible to attend the meeting and have their say on the future of their communities.

“This plan will determine our development over the next 20 years so it is vital that we have as much public input as possible.”

To view the consultation documents and have your say go to www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/ldf

SCHOOL CLOSURES DUE TO INDUSTRIAL ACTION:

 

The latest notifications of schools that will be wholly closed for pupils on Thursday, June 30, are as follows:

PRIMARY (39):

Adlington (Macclesfield)

Ash Grove (Macclesfield)

Astbury St Mary’s (Congleton)

Bexton (Knutsford)

Brereton (Sandbach)

Calveley (Nantwich)

Cledford (Middlewich)

Cranberry (Alsager)

Dean Oaks (Wilmslow)

Excalibur (Alsager)

Gainsborough (Crewe)

Hermitage (Congleton)

Highfields (Nantwich)

Hungerford (Crewe)

Ivy Bank (Macclesfield)

Lower Park (Poynton)

Mablins Lane (Crewe)

Marlfields (Congleton)

Marton (Congleton)

Nether Alderley (Alderley Edge)

Oakefield (Crewe)

Pear Tree (Nantwich)

Pebble Brook (Crewe)

Pikemere (Alsager)

Prestbury (Prestbury)

Sandbach (Sandbach)

Shavington (Crewe)

St John the Evangelist (Macclesfield)

St Mary’s (Congleton)

St Mary’s (Crewe)

The Berkeley (Crewe)

The Dingle (Sandbach)

The Quinta (Congleton)

Underwood West (Crewe)

Vine Tree (Crewe)

Weston Village (Crewe)

Wilmslow Grange (Wilmslow)

Woodcock’s Well (Congleton)

Wybunbury Delves (Nantwich)

SECONDARY (4):

Middlewich

Ruskin (Crewe)

Sir William Stanier (Crewe)

Kings Grove School (Crewe)

SPECIAL (1):

Springfield

PARTIAL CLOSURES

PRIMARY (21):

Acton Primary (Nantwich)

Alsager Highfields

Ashdene  (Wilmslow)

Audlem St James (Nantwich)

Beechwood (Crewe)

Black Firs (Congleton)

High Legh (Knutsford)

Hollinhey (Macclesfield)

Hurdsfield (Macclesfield)

Little Bollington (Macclesfield)

Millfields (Nantwich)

Mobberley Primary (Knutsford)

Monks Coppenhall (Crewe)

Park Royal (Macclesfield)

Rainow primary (Macclesfield)

St Vincent de Paul (Knutsford)

Stapeley Broad Lane (Nantwich)

Weaver (Nantwich)

Wheelock (Sandbach)

Willaston (Nantwich)

Wyche (Nantwich)

SECONDARY (9):

All Hallows (Macclefield)

Alsager

Fallibroome Academy (Macclesfield)

Poynton

St Thomas More (Crewe)

Sandbach Boys

Sandbach High School

Tytherington (Macclesfield)

Malbank (Nantwich)

SPECIAL (1):

St John’s Wood (Knutsford)

Cheshire East working to stamp out doorstep crime

Primary school pupils are being given tips from Cheshire East Council on how to help themselves and their families be safe if bogus callers come knocking at the door.

The authority’s consumer protection and investigations team is offering Year 6 children an interactive presentation to help raise awareness of ‘safety at the door’ to prevent doorstep crime.

An activity booklet for pupils has also been drawn up, as well as an educational website called ‘Knock Knock, Who’s There’, which has been developed to provide resources for children, parents and teachers to learn about doorstep safety together.

Children are also made aware of buying goods from shops or over the internet. The aim is for youngsters to learn and pass on their education and knowledge to others including parents, grandparents, carers and elderly neighbours and relatives.

Councillor Rachel Bailey, Cabinet member with responsibility for safer and stronger communities, said: “Consumer rights, advice and education are vitally important issues for everyone.

“This long-term campaign helps to prepare children in case of bogus calls but it also aims to make them wary of buying goods and services, either in a shop or over the internet and how the rules and regulations apply and what to do if things go wrong.

“Sessions in Sandbach and Knutsford have been a great success so far and we will then be looking to roll the project out across the rest of Cheshire East in the coming years.”

Consumer protection and investigations is now welcoming interest from other primary schools who would like to benefit from the presentation.

For interested schools, the team will meet with them to discuss pupils’ needs before officers begin their work.

One officer will undertake a lesson on doorstep crime and bogus callers at the door, whilst another will undertake a presentation on consumer rights when purchasing goods and services.

Following the lessons, pupils will be provided with an activity booklet and asked to design, draw or paint a landscape A4 poster showing a key message learnt during the visit.

Councillors and officers will then judge which are the top 12 entries and place them on to a calendar for the following year.

Calendars will then be printed around December time, so that pupils can pass them on to elderly residents or relatives as a Christmas present.

For more information, call 01270 685900 or visit www.knockknockwhosthere.net

Motorcycle Rider Assessment Day

South Cheshire Advanced Motorcyclists will be holding the next Motorcycle
Rider Assessment event on Saturday 25th June between 10:00 and 16:00.  These
events are proving to be very popular for motorcyclists from the Northwest,
North Wales and West Midlands. This event will once again be held at the
Broxton Picnic area on the junction of the A41 and A534.


Members of the group will be on hand to discuss any riding or capability
matters with the public and our accredited Observers will be undertaking
free assessment rides. The observed rides will last approximately 45 minutes
and will include pre and post ride briefings. There is no charge for the
assessment rides, simply turn up and register. All motorcyclists are
welcome, but they must have passed their full Motorcycle test before they
are eligible for Advanced Motorcycling Guidance.


All Cheshire East residents will qualify for a 50% discount on the cost of
The I.A.M.'s Skill for Life course provided by South Cheshire Advanced
Motorcyclists. Other discounts may be available for Staffordshire and
Cheshire West residents.
 

For further information, please contact Bob Morris at
<mailto:bob.morris@southcheshiream.co.uk> bob.morris@southcheshiream.co.uk
or call 01270 766384

Full details are available on the group website at
<http://www.southcheshiream.co.uk> www.southcheshiream.co.uk  

 

MP’s news Letter

Welcome ...

Welcome to this my 86th electronic news bulletin.

This week the Prime Minister has spoken with President Obama and I welcome his announcement to draw down the US troop surge from Afghanistan.

The surge by the US and international partners, supported by an increase in the number of Afghan army and police, has reversed the momentum of the insurgency and created the right conditions for security responsibility to begin to transfer to the Afghans from July.

We will keep UK force levels in Afghanistan under constant review. We have already said there will be no UK troops in combat roles in Afghanistan by 2015 and, where conditions on the ground allow, it is right that we bring troops home sooner.

We remain side by side with Afghanistan and our international partners to achieve a military and political solution in Afghanistan that will allow the Afghan people take full responsibility for their own sovereignty and national security.

This comes only days before Armed Forces Day which will be held this Saturday, 25 June 2011.

It’s an opportunity to do two things. Firstly, to raise public awareness of the contribution made to our country by those who serve and have served in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces, Secondly, it gives the nation an opportunity to Show Your Support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving troops to Service families and from veterans to cadets.

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 ...

• Held a Constituency Surgery at my office in Crewe
• Asked the Transport Secretary in the House of Commons how we can help British businesses avoid losing out to cheap foreign contracts, read more here
• Been interviewed by local blog 'Love Nantwich', read more here
• Waved the start flag at this year's Weaver Wander
• Held a meet and greet at Wychwood Village Hall
• Recorded a personal messge for TACT, the UK's largest fostering and adoption charity
• Visited the Autism Network on Prince Albert Street in Crewe, to see the recent changes made to facilities and services

...This weekend I will be

• Visiting the Customer Service Centre of Cheshire East Council
• Visiting the Life Education Centre at Gainsborough Primary School
• Visiting the Salisbury Estate to meet local residents and hear their concerns

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COMING SOON: Community News

Coming soon...

I will be showcasing the best local news stories from your own community on my website, in my office and eNewsletter.

I invite you to send me your good news stories from your community, so we can highlight the hard work of our local Volunteers, Community Stars and Fundraisers!

Look out for new announcements at www.edwardtimpson.com

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Photos & Video ...

• Edward Waves-off the Weaver Wander
  

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

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Virgin London Marathon 2011

Raising money for Parkinson's UK in Crewe & Nantwich

In April I completed my 9th marathon, raising money for Parkinson's UK Crewe Branch.  There's still time to sponsor me on my webpage and help support a great organisation!

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MP blames Labour for exporting massive railway contract overseas

Crewe Chronicle

Rail contract fury

THE decision to award a vital train contract to a firm overseas - placing British jobs at Bombardier in Crewe and Derby at risk - has infuriated local MP Edward Timpson.
“This is the wrong decision,” he said, adding: “I’m angry and Bombardier's employees and management have my sympathy.” (See letters pages 16 &17).

Mr Timpson said affected Conservative MPs in Cheshire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire lobbied hard against the decision but European law was against them.
“In 2008 it was the Labour government that set unfair terms for this long bidding process. It priced Bombardier out of the market before they had even started and tied the hands of the Coalition Government under European law.”

He continued: “Labour sent the economic benefits of Inter City Express train manufacture to Japan and has now sent the economic benefits of the Thameslink train manufacture to Germany. They’ve learned nothing!.
“It's no wonder a railway constituency like Crewe and Nantwich chose to end its love affair with Labour. Gordon Brown may have wanted ‘British jobs for British workers’ but he never put his money where his mouth was. And this is the result. Again!”

© 2011 Crewe Chronicle

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Football centre raised in House

The Sentinel

MP EDWARD Timpson has asked the Government to intervene in the closing of the Crewe Alexandra Girls Centre of Excellence after the Football Association decided to withdraw funding. 

The Conservative MP for Crewe and Nantwich raised the issue in the House of Commons with Hugh Robertson, Parliamentary under secretary of state for culture, media and sport.

Mr Timpson asked him to "take it up personally" with David Bernstein, the chairman of the FA.

The club was a casualty of the FA's decision to reduce their centres of excellence from 52 to 30 for next season.

It means Crewe will also lose their £34,000 funding from the FA.

© 2011 The Sentinel

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Petition Handed In Against Coppenhall Plans

Crewe & Nantwich Guardian

PROTESTERS against the controversial £50m housing development in Coppenhall have handed in a petition of more than a thousand signatures to Cheshire East Council. 

Compaigners insist the Taylor Wimpey development of 650 houses on land off Remer Street will lead to gridlock on the area’s roads and overwhelm the local infrastrusture.

Local councillor Peggy Martin, who handed in the petition with fellow councillor David Newton, is meeting with local MP Edward Timpson about the issue on Friday morning.

She said: “The plans have now gone in to the council and we are expecting the meeting either in July or August.

“Everyone in the area is against this development.

“It is beautiful countryside they are talking of builidng on and once it is gone we will never get it back. There must be much more suitable sites around Crewe.

“We are just hoping that Cheshire East Council will listen to people who actually live in the area.”

Campaigner Robin Poste, a Remer Street resident, said: “We have about 1,800 signatures so far, but have until the end of the month to add more.

“If you look at the report from the developers, you would get the impression that not many people turned up for the consultation meetings. In reality they were packed with local residents against the plans.

“The developers have asked people who live outside the area for their views and produced a biased opinion based on that.

“People are more upset knowing that than they were before.

“Nobody on the area wants this development, the plans would see us sandwiched between two main roads at the front and at the back.

“The developers keep saying it is for the community. But which community is it for? Certianly not the one that is here already.”

Mr Poste added that the seven-year building plan will have an adverse effect on the community and properties due to vibration and pollution.

As developers Taylor Wimpey submitted the proposals to the council, a spokesman said: “I’m really encouraged to see that there is a good level of local support for our proposals.

“I understand that some concerns have been expressed and we fully expect a level of opposition from residents living in close proximity to the site.”

The application was backed by South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce chief executive John Dunning, who endorsed the plans for the economic benefits it would deliver for the town.

© 2011 Crewe & Nantwich Guardian

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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

Youngsters take centre stage to showcase their talents

Cheshire East youngsters are coming together to take centre stage and showcase their talents.

The first-ever Cheshire East Youth Theatre (CEYT) ‘Celebration’ will see all three groups that make up CEYT put on a show-stopping performance at Crewe’s Lyceum Theatre on Saturday, July 16, at 6pm.

The event, run by Cheshire East Council, is an ideal occasion to celebrate the blossoming talents of the youth theatre.

About 90 youngsters are looking forward to the memorable opportunity to perform at the Lyceum – and for some it will be their first time treading the boards.

Cheshire East Councillor Jamie Macrae, Cabinet member with responsibility for prosperity, said: “This is a really vibrant and talented youth theatre group and the celebration at the Lyceum will be an exciting and memorable opportunity for its members to showcase their talents.

“Youth theatre is an incredible experience for the tutors, performers and audience alike. I’d urge as many people as possible to come along to support this show and celebrate these youngsters’ achievements.”

CEYT, which is based at the Lyceum, for young people aged five to 18, recently branched out to create two new youth theatre groups in Alsager and Sandbach. 

The Lyceum Youth Theatre has four age groups, five to seven; eight to 10; 11 to 13; and 14 to 18, based in the theatre’s rehearsal room. Alsager Youth Theatre, based in Alsager Community Church Hall, and Sandbach Youth Theatre, based in Sandbach Town Hall, are both for youngsters aged seven to 11.

The groups help young people build a range of theatre skills including improvisation, voice and speech, characterisation and movement. It also teaches youngsters how to work effectively as a team, develop communication skills and build self confidence.

Members get the chance to attend workshops and tread the boards of Crewe’s Lyceum stage – as well as perform at other local venues and regional festivals.

CEYT is extremely popular and has a reputation for imaginative performance work. No previous experience is necessary and there are no auditions needed. 

CEYT teenage member Imogen Traynor-Barry Said: “Performing at the Lyceum is immense and I look forward to it every year. We work hard throughout the term for this and I can’t wait.”

Tickets for the celebration event, priced £5 for adults and £3 for concessions, are available from the Lyceum’s box office on 01270 537333.

Anyone interested in joining Cheshire East Youth Theatre should ring co-ordinator Hayley Lindley on 07709180296 or email her at: ceyt@cheshireeast.gov.uk

The CEYT autumn term runs from September 5 to December 14 and costs £40 (£20 concessions) per person for the term.

Weston and Basford Parish Council playing its part in making Cheshire East safer

 

Weston and Basford residents are benefitting from a positive working partnership between their two local councils.

Cheshire East and Weston and Basford parish councils have developed a community resilience plan, which is designed to protect parishioners in major emergencies and serious incidents.

The emergency planning team at Cheshire East believes it is important for town and parish councils to assist the Borough so that it can help to identify which local resources can be best used to tackle potential problems like severe winter conditions, floods or flu pandemics.

The Weston and Basford Parish Council community resilience plan identifies local resources and hazards in the parish but, more importantly, will assist Cheshire East in identifying vulnerable people at the time of an emergency.

It is hoped that more town and parish councils will now come forward and work with the Borough and Cheshire police and offer assistance to help keep Cheshire East well prepared in case of emergency.

Councillor Rachel Bailey, Cabinet member with responsibility for safer and stronger communities, said: “Identifying vulnerable people in a crisis is not something Cheshire East can achieve on its own.

“The authority adopts a ‘top down’ approach by referring to internal records on vulnerable people and by seeking assistance from partner agencies. But it cannot always account for changes in circumstances and someone who may not be vulnerable today, could be tomorrow.

“This is where Weston and Basford Parish Council plays a vital ‘bottom up’ role in identifying vulnerable people, through local knowledge and community links.

“Cheshire East strives to be an excellent council and to work with others to deliver for its residents and I do hope that more councils will now look into how they can assist us.”

The Council does not have a set method for developing these plans and is inviting parish and town councils to devise their own way of operating or to adopt an existing plan.

Councillor John Hammond, ward member for Haslington, said: “Community involvement is key to the success of these initiatives. We must identify those who will need the most help, should an emergency situation develop.

“This is about thorough planning and preparation. I am confident the people of Weston and Basford will continue to lend their support to this important partnership.

“At the same time, may I take this opportunity to congratulate Weston and Basford Parish Council for once again displaying great initiative in being the first parish council in Cheshire East to develop such a plan, which hopefully others will now follow.”

A community resilience plan template is available at: www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk which includes weblinks to potential grants.

For more information, call emergency planning officers Martin Grime on 01244 973866 or Jim Robinson on 01244 973789.