One man crime wave sentenced for preying on vulnerable and elderly in Crewe

A one man crime wave who terrorised elderly and vulnerable people in Crewe was sentenced to six years imprisonment last week.

Oliver Boswell, 34, from Northwich and Middlewich was charged with eight burglaries and two attempt thefts with violence in the Crewe area. At an earlier hearing he pleaded guilty and on Friday 6 January 2012 he was sentenced.

Police in Crewe stepped up patrols last year as it began to emerge that pensioners were being targeted in their own home by a man pretending to be from the waterboard. He would try to gain entry to their homes, and once inside, would either demand cash or distract his victim to take cash.

Det Insp Nigel Groom said: "We were very concerned about the increase in burglaries targeting vulnerable people in the Crewe area, in particular the two incidents where the offender showed violence towards the victims. Detectives from my burglary unit worked tirelessly alongside Neighbourhood policing officers to track down the man who carried out these despicable crimes."

Officers tracked Boswell down and arrested him on 31 July. He was charged and remanded two days later.

Boswell was charged with 10 offences including one at Tennyson Avenue on 27 July 2011, where he tricked his way into the home of an 83-year-old woman. She suffered a minor cut to her foot when he pushed past her and demanded cash.

He was also charged with forcing his way into the Claughton Avenue home of a 78-year-old woman on Monday 25 July 2011. At the time he again claimed to be from the water board, forced his way into the house and pushed his victim into a wall before stealing her handbag.

DI Groom said: "Although no one has been seriously physically injured during these burglaries, all the victims had understandably been deeply affected and traumatised by what had happened to them. While we cannot turn back the clock so they didn′t have to experience such a shocking incident, we can take satisfaction in the fact Boswell is getting what he deserves for preying on the elderly and the vulnerable."

Driver dies in motorway collision

 

The M6 Motorway in Cheshire remains closed following a serious collision earlier this evening.

The collision was reported at 1730 hours on Monday 9 January 2012, and involved two Heavy Good Vehicles. One of these vehicles has come to rest in a ditch, the other has jacknifed across the three lanes of the southbound carriageway. Neither vehicle is carrying any cargo of note.

Following the collision, the M6 was closed between Junction 16 (Barthomley) and Junction 18 (Holmes Chapel) on the southbound carriageway. Tailbacks remain from the scene of the collision, and there is congestion in the surrounding areas.

Two lanes of the northbound carriageway at the scene of the collision (Lanes 2 and 3 ) have been temporarily closed to facilitate the work of the emergency services. However, the southbound closure is likely to continue for some hours yet, and motorists are advised to find an alternative route.

One of the HGV drivers was trapped in his vehicle following the collision, before being released. He was tended by paramedics at the scene, but sadly died shortly after the collision. The deceased is a man who was driving a foreign registered vehicle, and enquiries are ongoing to identify him and locate his next of kin.

The other lorry driver was not injured, and there were no other casualties.

Police are appealing for witnesses, and are keen to hear from anybody who may have seen anything of relevance, or have any information, which may assist the collision investigator in determining what has caused the crash. If you can assist, please contact the North West Police Motorway Group on the police non emergency number - 101 - quoting incident 669 of 9/01/2012.

Forces form innovative partnership

 

Two police forces have come together in an innovative partnership to deliver essential business functions.

Cheshire and Northamptonshire Police Forces have taken a further step towards the launch of their Multi Force Shared Service having signed the Post Implementation Support Services contract with the technology provider Capgemini UK plc.

The Multi Force Shared Service will launch on 1^st April 2012 and is the first such shared service centre to be set up in the policing sector. Initially the centre will provide finance and purchasing services to both Forces supported by new technology. The technology will also be accessible by each Force for the management of logistics and estates & assets. Human resources, payroll and duty management services will follow in October.

The collaboration agreement between Cheshire and Northamptonshire will see the two Forces working in partnership to deliver the shared service primarily from one location in Winsford, Cheshire (within the Cheshire Constabulary Headquarters building), providing core back office functions to each Force. Payroll provision will initially be provided from Northampton.

The Multi Force Shared Service will deliver efficiencies and financial savings for both Forces using technology provided by Capgemini. The integrated business service solution will not only replace existing, old back office systems within each Force but also align core processes between Forces, reducing duplication and bureaucracy. The new IT system will also enable a significantly greater level of self service for officers and staff and allows for quicker decision making, flexibility and autonomy for officers in their daily business

Officers and staff will be encouraged to self serve wherever possible but if they need help to access any of the systems they will be able to contact a ‘one stop shop′ service desk. Teams within the service will manage the transactional elements required to resolve the issue.

Margaret Ollerenshaw Chair of Cheshire Police Authority said: "Cheshire Constabulary have been developing the concept around shared services for some time. The benefit of working with both the private sector and a partner Force in Northamptonshire means that we have now developed a way of delivering quality shared services in a sustainable, cost effective manner."

The Contract

Cheshire Police Authority have signed a ten year contract with Capgemini UK plc, part of the Capgemini Group, the contracts are in two parts, part one for build and implementation and the second, signed recently, for post implementation support services. Cheshire Constabulary and Northamptonshire Police have signed a collaboration agreement which will see the two Forces working in partnership to deliver the Multi Force Shared Service.

There is a framework agreement supporting the contract which is open to all Forces throughout the United Kingdom and enables any Force to achieve either a comprehensive transformation of their IT services that support back-office policing activities or the purchase of applications, modules and solutions that meet their specific requirements and deliver business benefits, without having to re-tender.

Background

Under the comprehensive spending review, Cheshire Constabulary has to achieve savings of £36m and Northamptonshire Police £19m. Both Forces have already made significant savings, however the scale of the financial challenge is such that more innovative ways of working have had to be sought in order to achieve the full amount.

Cheshire Constabulary has been working towards a shared service capability for some time and they have been developing the system and processes alongside Capgemini for two years. The decision was taken that it was not financially viable for the Force to proceed alone and therefore discussions were had with other Forces.

Northamptonshire Police entered into discussion in the latter part of 2010, the similar aims and shared values of the two Forces enabled discussions to develop swiftly to business case which was then signed off by the respective Police Authorities in July 2011.

http://www.cheshire.police.uk/

http://www.northants.police.uk/

About Capgemini

With 115,000 people in 40 countries, Capgemini is one of the world′s foremost providers of consulting, technology and outsourcing services.The Group reported 2010 global revenues of EUR 8.7 billion. Together with its clients, Capgemini creates and delivers business and technology solutions that fit their needs and drive the results they want. A deeply multicultural organisation, Capgemini has developed its own way of working, the Collaborative Business ExperienceTM, and draws on Rightshore ®, its worldwide delivery model.

More information is available at http://www.uk.capgemini.com/

Rightshore® is a trademark belonging to Capgemini

Support for Action Against Metal Thieves

 

Continuing action to combat metal thefts in Cheshire has been welcomed by Cheshire Police Authority.

The chairman, Margaret Ollerenshaw said, "Stealing metal, including power cable and pipes carrying gas or water, sometimes results in danger, as well as inconvenience, to other people. It is an issue of real concern."

Cheshire Police officers carry out regular checks on scrap metal dealers, patrol vulnerable areas and encourage owners of industrial sites to step up their security.

They also work closely with British Transport Police, who investigate thefts of cable and other metal from railway property.

The two police forces exchange information about stolen items they discover at scrap yards and in other locations. During a day of action against metal theft earlier in December, Cheshire officers stopped vehicles which they knew where used by metal thieves and recovered some stolen property.

Peter Nurse, a member of Cheshire Police Authority, who raised the issue at a recent Authority meeting, said the joint approach was very important, especially as the theft of metal items from the railways sometimes created serious threats to public safety.

Cheshire′s Chief Constable, Dave Whatton said the danger resulting from this type of crime on the railways was matched by the theft of metal components in other locations.

"For instance, if someone steals a grid or manhole cover from the road there could be serious consequences for drivers who may not spot the hole in time to avoid it. Public safety is one of the reasons we take this type of crime very seriously indeed.

"Many of these thefts are equally dangerous for the criminals themselves. Stealing power cable obviously presents a hazard and pipes which carry gas or water under high pressure can also cause injury or death when they are interfered with."

Peter Nurse also wanted to know whether most of the thefts were opportunist crimes or the work of organised criminal gangs.

Chief Constable Dave Whatton said, "In many cases thieves see a metal item and believe they can make some easy money. The recent case when a man was sent to prison after stealing a metal plaque from the war memorial at Willaston was one example. Other spontaneous thefts are not as high profile, but the missing items can cause real issues for other people.

"At the other end of the scale we see criminals mount planned, military- style operations to steal large quantities of heavy-duty piping and miles of copper cable.

"Both types of crime can be extremely dangerous for the criminal. Stealing high voltage cable, for instance, can obviously result in death or serious injury for the thieves. On occasions, the theft may also disable vital safety devices on equipment or bring a production line to a standstill and put jobs in jeopardy.

"Since the price of metals rose steeply we have seen an increase in this type of crime across Britain. We will continue to make every effort to put that trend into reverse."

Teenage girls asked to be vigilant after suspicious incidents

 

Police are asking teenage girls and parents to be vigilant following a serious of concerning incidents in the Crewe and Nantwich areas.

On three separate occasions during the evening of Saturday 7 January 2012, 16 year old girls were approached by a man in a car.

The first incident took place at 1730 hours near to the Bus Station, Beam Street, Nantwich. A man in a green vauxhall car pulled up alongside a 16 year old girl and asked directions. The man is described as being in his late 30s, with dark hair, wearing a long black coat, and the girl describes him as having a "foreign accent". The teenager was concerned enough at the man′s approach to alert her parents who contacted police.

A second incident occurred at 20.22 hours in  Victoria Avenue, Crewe. A 16 year old girl, walking near the BMX track, was approached by a man in a green vauxhall car who asked her and her friend to get into his car. They declined, but he followed them and repeated the request. Eventually he drove off, heading towards the bowling alley. They describe the man as dark skinned with black short hair.

The third incident occurred just ten minutes later (reported at 2032) involving a 16 and 15 year old girl walking along West Street, Crewe when a man in a dark green old shape green astra car pulled up alongside them and asked for directions. The girls provided directions, and walked on, but the man followed them in his car, stopped again and asked them their ages. The man is described as possibly being Asian or of mixed race. Concerned that they appeared to be being followed, the girls tried to knock on the door of a nearby house and raise the alarm, but when no-one was in, they ran home and alerted the 16 year old′s mother who rang police.

Crewe Police are concerned that 3 incidents, which appear to be linked through the description of the car and a lone man approaching girls, have occurred in a short period of time. While no aggression or force has been demonstrated towards the girls, all were left uncomfortable enough to notify the police.

Police are treating the three incidents as suspicious at this stage, and advising parents and teenage girls to be mindful that they have occurred. Police are also asking anyone who may have been approached in similar circumstances to make contact with police at Crewe. Police are also keen to hear from anyone who may recognise the car or man from the descriptions given, and provide information which could help identify him.

Finally, police are appealing to the car driver himself, if he recognises himself from the circumstances, to make contact with police so that he can be spoken to in connection with the incident.

Any one with any information is asked to contact Crewe Police on the non emergency number - 101 - quoting incident number 741 of 07/01/2012.

Alternatively, information can be left anonymously on the Crimestoppers hotline 0800 555 111.

Stay Warm, Stay Well, Stay Safe –

make a pledge against domestic abuse

With winter in full swing, Cheshire East Adult Safeguarding Board is appealing to people to be extra vigilant in supporting some of our most vulnerable residents.

With around 5,000 domestic incidents reported to police each year in Cheshire East, the board has made its pledge against domestic abuse.

Statistics from the British Crime Survey show that domestic abuse for 2009/10 affects seven per cent of women and four per cent men in Britain.

And evidence shows that both women and men with a long-term illness or disability were more likely to be victims of domestic abuse (12.3 per cent and 6.7 per cent respectively) and stalking (5.7 per cent and five per cent respectively), compared with those without a long-term illness or disability.

Councillor Roland Domleo, Cabinet member with responsibility for adult services, said: “These figures show that those with a long-term illness or disability are almost twice as likely to experience domestic abuse, which is quite a stark difference than those who do not have a long-term illness or disability.

“With this in mind, I would urge people to keep an eye out for their friends and neighbours at this time of year, when those with illness or disability are at their most vulnerable.”

A recent interview survey with disabled women also indicates that as many as one in five report abuse of various kinds at home.

Derek Thomas, the independent chair of the local Adult Safeguarding Board, said: “Many people assume that domestic abuse does not affect the most vulnerable in our society but evidence shows this is not the case.

“We have a shared a responsibility to help to protect those who may be least able to protect themselves and who, for a variety of reasons, may find it most difficult to speak out.

“But I would like to remind those who are victims of abuse that they are not to blame, not alone and can get help. You are already a survivor and you can get your life back.”

Domestic abuse is expected to rise as unemployment, financial hardship and increased use of alcohol during festive periods puts extra strains on family life.

Everyone has the right to feel safe in their own home and any man or woman, who is experiencing domestic abuse or knows someone who is, should contact the Cheshire East domestic abuse family safety unit, in confidence, on 01606 363532 or contact the national domestic violence free 24-hour helpline on 0808 2000 247.

Police appeal for witnesses following Crewe street robbery

 

Police are appealing for witnesses after a street robbery in Newdigate Street in Crewe.

On 19 December 2011 between 5.15pm and 5.45pm a 31 year old woman was walking from Crewe bus station across Victoria Street towards Asda supermarket.

She then crossed over the West Street extension on the pedestrian crossing at the back of George and walked along the front of William Stanier School and into Newdigate Street where she was grabbed from behind.

The offender grabbed her bag and she was swung to the ground and into the middle of the road. She tried to keep hold of her bag but couldn′t. Her i-pod was also pulled from her and dropped to the floor.

The offender then made off.

The offender is described as white, aged between 30-40yrs, medium build and over 5ft 4ins.

He was wearing a black beanie hat and a black padded type waist length jacket.

The victim′s i-Pod was recovered from the scene a little later by police.

Anyone with information should contact DC Mick Baron on 101 quoting incident number 784 of 19.12.11. Alternatively information can be given anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Couple sentenced for murder of man in Frodsham

A man and a woman who killed a man over an unpaid debt have been sentenced.
The body of Martin Ithell, aged 49, was found in his car outside Blacon Police Station in Chester in the early hours of Saturday 12 March 2011.
He had been shot and stabbed at a house in Frodsham.
Scott Davidson, born 27/05/88, of Hawthorne Road, Frodsham, was convicted of murdering Martin on 18 November 2011, following a 28 day trial.
He has today, Thursday 5 January 2012, been sentenced to life imprisonment to serve a minimum of thirty years and will remain on licence for the rest of his life.
The jury failed to reach a verdict on Rachael Horton born 19/12/91, of Hawthorne Road, Little Sutton, however she subsequently pleaded guilty to manslaughter on 12 December 2011.
She has today, Thursday 5 January 2012, been sentenced to eight years in a Young Offenders Institution.
Detective Inspector Helen Spooner who led the investigation, said: "Davidson claimed he had shot Martin by accident in self defence however I believe his actions leading up to the murder show that he had planned the attack and had no intention of letting Martin walk out of that house alive.
"Horton has never given a clear explanation of what the extent of her involvement was but she has pleaded guilty to manslaughter, showing she was connected to Martin′s death.

"Martin′s family and a lot of people in the Chester area have been deeply effected by his death and I hope today′s sentence helps them begin to move on from what happened."

Background

Davidson had borrowed money from Martin in December 2010 and January 2011, part of which was used to buy a Subaru Impreza car. He had no legitimate means to repay the money he had borrowed. Since December 2010 such was the state of his personal finances, the court heard that Davidson was planning to commit armed robberies locally.

At the time of the murder he is believed to have owed Martin £26,000 due to the interest the debt had accrued.

Davidson and Horton were in a relationship and rented the house in Frodsham together. Despite this, Davidson led a double life in that since December 2010 he had been involved with another woman - so deeply involved that in the hours following the murder he met the woman in Sandbach prior to handing himself in to police.

On the day of the murder, a number of items were bought by Davidson to prepare for the planned killing. Paint was purchased in the same colour as the hall and front room, which did not need decorating prior to the attack, as well as plastic sheeting, paper overalls and a jerry can of petrol.

On the night of the murder, Davidson had lured Martin Ithell to his house telling him he had the full amount of £26,000 to pay him, stating he had sold the Subaru car to raise the funds needed to repay Ithell. Davidson had stowed his car away at a kennel near Manley telling the proprietor that the communal parking area of his house was in need of maintenance and his car would be there all weekend.

Due to Martins concern of how Davidson had been able to raise the money, he requested two associates to travel to Frodsham and be available should he need support at the planned meeting.

The two men parked up near to Davidson′s address at around 6.55pm. At 7pm Martin phoned one of them in order to provide an open line so they could listen in and monitor his welfare while he went to the house.

They heard Martin arrive at the house and then heard a loud screech and the phone line went dead. It became apparent to the two men that Ithell may be in danger.

This concern was further compounded when they saw Martin′s BMW car drive past them, close enough for them to see that Davidson was at the wheel.

The two men went to the house, where they found the front door area and steps covered in blood. They immediately contacted police.
When officers attended they found Horton crying, stating she had stabbed a man. As a result of the blood at the scene and the admission from Horton, she was arrested. She later denied stabbing Martin.

It wasn′t until some hours after the fatal incident that a Cheshire Police Negotiator made contact with Davidson and he eventually agreed to surrender himself at Blacon Police Station.

Martin′s body was found in the back of his BMW. He had been shot in the chest and stabbed eight times in the neck.

Davidson and Horton were charged with the murder of Ithell and remanded in custody to await trial.

Following a trial at Liverpool Crown Court that lasted six weeks, Davidson was found guilty by a majority verdict of murder. The jury failed to reach of verdict in relation to Horton and she was due to stand a re-trial, however pleaded guilty to manslaughter in December.

Martin′s family paid the following tribute: "Martin was a wonderful partner to Sarah, son to Megan, brother to Jimmy, uncle to Melissa and brother-in-law to Vanessa.

"We all miss him so much and will never come to terms with what has happened to him.

"Martin was the most loyal, kind, generous and caring man, and was always there to help anyone who needed him.

"We his family are so fortunate to have shared our lives with him, but it is so unfair that he has been so cruelly taken from us. This is something that none of us will ever get over.

"To anyone who thinks it is OK to engage in gun and knife crime, please stop and think how much devastation and heartache your actions may cause.

"May we take this opportunity to thank the Major Investigation Team of Cheshire Police for their continued support over the past seven months."

 

We are still receiving reports of burglaries and unfortunately some of these reports are as a result of windows and doors being left open when people are going out - please can we stress to our members the importance of securing the house when it is not occupied as this can save a lot of heart ache  from being a victim of crime.
We have also had quite a few reports of theft from motor vehicles across this section of the Eastern BCU - the main things that have been taken are tools and sat nav's. Please do not leave anything valuable in your cars - I would also recommend taking out the holding bracket for sat nav's if possible as this then does not advertise that you have a sat nav!!
I have two appeals that I wish to pass on to you so that you can forward to your members if you see fit:
SANDBACH:

Date of Incident: 22nd December 2011
Location of incident: Heath Road, Sandbach.

Police are appealing for information following the theft of sentimental items during a burglary at a house in Sandbach.

On 22nd December some time between 4pm and 7.40pm offenders forced their way through the rear patio window of a house in Heath Road.

They stole various sentimental items that belonged to the victim′s grandfather including a boson′s whistle and Gurka Kukri knives. The victim′s NATO former Yugoslavian campaign medal was also stolen along with various coins and camera items.

DC Brian Hulse said:

Burglaries are always distressing for the victim - even more so when sentimental items which can′t be replaced are taken.

We would appeal to anyone who is either offered these items for sale or who has seen someone acting suspiciously in the area to contact police.

- DC Brian Hulse, Cheshire Constabulary

Anyone with information should contact DC Brian Hulse on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Crewe - Shavington.

Date of Incident: 2 January 2012
Location of incident: Main Road

Crewe detectives are appealing for witnesses following a robbery at an off-licence in Shavington.

Shortly before 8pm on 2nd January 2012 three men entered Bargain Booze in Main Road as it was being locked up for the evening.

The offenders then threatened staff with weapons and demanded keys from the safe.

They then stole a quantity of cash and made of from the scene in a dark coloured car and drove away at speed.

None of the staff were injured but they were shaken by the incident.

Anyone with information should contact DS Claire Jesson at Crewe CID on 101 quoting incident number 625 of 2.01.12. Alternatively information can be given anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

A 46-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman from Liverpool have been arrested and are currently helping police with their enquiries.

Sole Traders Can Benefit from Chamber Membership in 2012

 

There’s never been a better time for sole traders aiming to grow their business to benefit from the expertise and support of West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce.

With the media dominated by talk of global recession and austerity measures, the Chamber is on hand to provide networking opportunities, public relations support or even legal advice to help give your business the very best chance of success.

Sole traders who become Chamber members can benefit from:

• Startup advice
• Legal expenses insurance up to £65,000 covering issues including tenancy, tax and jury service, with a 24 hour advice line
• Free entry to regular, tailored networking events with introductions to attendees
• Promotion of your PR and marketing materials through our website and social media feeds
• Access to our extensive mailing lists of businesses across the region
• Discounted training
• Comprehensive export advice and document service
• Free HR advice if you choose to employ staff.

Speaking in testimonial of the Chamber’s services, Patrick Kingsley Williams of MWL Systems, Wrexham said: “I am proud that our company is a member of the Chamber, which I believe to be the best business support organisation in the region. We benefit from connections made with companies of all sizes at the Chamber’s frequent networking events and also from many of its free advisory services.”

Colin Brew, general manager of the Chamber said: “As a sole trader, every business decision is down to you and you need to be confident you have the knowledge and information to reach the right ones.

“Sole traders who join the Chamber can treat our business specialists as additional members of their team. We’ll give expert guidance and provide resources, helping sole traders save time and money and be in the best position to grow their business successfully.”

Becoming a member of West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce is simple;  just contact our membership manager Rebecca Fletcher on 01244 669988 or email info@cepnwchamber.org.uk for more information.

The Chamber has been supporting businesses in the region since 1921, and currently represents the employers of around 90,000 people to help deliver savings for business, promote regional growth, as well as represent member views to government.  

New member to boost Cabinet team

There’s a new arrival on Cheshire East Council’s Cabinet. Councillor Janet Clowes has been chosen to head up the health and wellbeing portfolio. 

The Wybunbury ward member will take over from Councillor Roland Domleo who has been combining the role with his duties as Cabinet member for adult services and Deputy Leader.

Councillor Clowes has worked as Councillor Domleo’s Cabinet support member for the past six months.

Councillor Wesley Fitzgerald, Leader of Cheshire East, said: “I am delighted to welcome Councillor Clowes to the Cabinet and I look forward to working with her in what is a key area for the Council as we move forward.

“Local authorities are being asked to take more of a role in improving the health and wellbeing of residents and the experience Janet is bringing to the role will be invaluable.

“She is a trained nurse, who specialised in intensive care, before moving into the further and higher education sectors, focusing on health studies.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Councillor Domleo for his efforts and achievements in this area.”

Mrs Clowes worked as a lecturer in health and social care at South Cheshire College for ten years before moving to Chester University as post-graduate leader in health promotion and community studies.

Councillor Clowes said: “I am extremely pleased to have been given this opportunity and I am looking forward to the challenge.

“One of the main areas of my work will be the implementation of the Health and Social Care Bill which brings public health back into the sphere of local government.

“Every resident of Cheshire East has a stake in this important issue and I am looking forward to working with our partners in the NHS, public health and other stakeholders.”

Special delivery boosts All Change for Crewe

 

Cheshire East Council’s Strategic Planning Board has given the green light to a multi-million pound project that will start the overhaul of Crewe Station and the redevelopment of the adjoining Royal Mail site.

This will begin the process of creating an iconic 21st century gateway to the town.

Councillors voted in favour of the application that kick-starts the first phase of an ambitious wider landmark scheme that will transform this part of Crewe. It includes:

· A new surface-level car park of about 240 spaces;

· Improved facilities for taxis;

· A new area for people to pick up and drop off their family and friends;

· New ticket machines and passenger information displays;

· Reopening the pedestrian subway linking the new facility straight into platforms one to five and six to 11; and

· A new commercial development site to provide a business opportunity for activities, which will be ancillary to the station.

The scheme was given a boost after the Council and its partner Network Rail were successful in their bid for £6.177m from the Government’s £100m rail stations improvement fund. The announcement was made at the end of November.

Cheshire East Council and Network Rail own the land. In a bold move, the Council bought the landmark former Royal Mail site in Crewe for £2.75m. The 4.5-acre Weston Road site became vacant when Royal Mail relocated its sorting offices.

The site is seen as a prime spot for a landmark development as part of ambitious plans to redevelop Crewe Rail Station. The Council will continue to work with rail industry partners to deliver further investment to create an iconic 21st century gateway to the town.

The project is central to the Council-backed ambitious plans to regenerate and revitalise the town centre and surrounding area. This vision is called ‘All Change for Crewe’.

Councillor Jamie Macrae, Cabinet member with responsibility for prosperity, said: “This decision is excellent news and a vote of confidence in our plans to transform this historic station.

“A revitalised rail hub is critical to boosting the town’s visitor economy and its attractiveness to business.

“The scheme is a real milestone in our 20-year All Change for Crewe project. We hope it will act as a springboard to attracting further investment from Government and the rail industry to achieve Cheshire East’s ultimate ambition for the redevelopment of the station.”

Network Rail’s route managing director Jo Kaye said: “The station is used by three million people a year and it has long been recognised that there is a need for additional car parking, because more and more people are choosing to travel by train.

“The extra spaces created and the new retail outlets will bring even more people to the station for commuting, business and leisure travel – all of which will help grow the economy of Crewe. When the work is completed, passengers will have the facilities they have come to expect from a major station on one of the busiest rail routes in the country.”

Shock Closure of Jessops

Happy New year to all our readers

Jessops which was are only photographic shop left in Crewe suddenly closed. I believe there was little or no notice as staff were telling people a few days earlier their pictures would be ready. Then suddenly the staff came in and were gone with the store closed.

As one door closes another opens with a new sweets shop next to the 3 store just opened.

 

The new Tesco store should open in February but its hoped it will in fact open in the next two weeks. They have taken on 300 workers 200 of which are old staff and 300 new jobs which is good for the area. The store is open 24 hours it will be interesting to see if Asda and other stores go 24 hour or open longer

New Year Message from Leader of Cheshire East Council

 

Children and vulnerable adults will remain at the forefront of Cheshire East Council’s work in 2012 said Leader, Councillor Wesley Fitzgerald, in a New Year statement this week.

Sterling work achieved this year in attracting inward investment to the borough’s towns will also continue, he pledged, despite the unprecedented level of economic hardship.

“Austerity is real and is affecting the whole of the country,” he said. “But we are in control of the situation in Cheshire East and I am confident that I and my Cabinet will balance the books for 2011 and bring in a balanced budget for 2012.

“Our first priority will be to ensure that children and vulnerable people continue to receive services they need:  this when Cheshire East receives one of the lowest Government grants in the country.

“2011 has seen huge successes for Cheshire East. We’ve had record-breaking GCSE results, more than a 98% pass rate at A level and our SATS figures are among the best in the country,” he continued. 

“Our childrens’ services were judged to be performing well by Ofsted with many nurseries, primary schools and secondary schools judged good or outstanding. The scene is now set to improve yet further on these reassuring results.

“A recent report by the Audit Commission placed the Council in the top three nationally for take-up of personal budgets by older people and those with disabilities. We have achieved double the national average. This is a superb result and one which can only continue as more and more people continue to take advantage of the choice they are offered, giving them control over their lives and their needs.

“Our towns too have seen success in 2011. In Crewe, our continued efforts for the town’s revitalisation have brought in the much-needed £16m of Government money for the construction of the essential link road which will unlock the town’s potential, plus a further £6.177m for Crewe Station. Our vision of All Change for Crewe now has the vital ingredients to take this town revitalisation forward with confidence.

“Plans for the regeneration of Macclesfield has energised the whole town. The formation of the Business Economic Forum, the launch of Love Local Life and the high level of public participation in the summer consultations have all proved unmitigated successes, ones on which we will continue to build in the future.

“Our work to attract inward investment is a major priority for Cheshire East. This year has seen millions of pounds in inward investment and new jobs. The foundation on which we will build is strong and in 2012 there will be many more announcements of success.

“We have spent the three years since the Council was formed consolidating our position. It has been hard and some very difficult decisions have had to be made. In streamlining our services, we have been mindful that our decisions affect people’s lives. We are proud that only a handful of compulsory redundancies have had to be made. Instead hundreds of voluntary redundancies have been taken.

“As well as working to bring a new council to its current level of maturity and potential, we are also working hard to allow local people to make local decisions about local issues. We have embraced fully the Localism Bill and our work with town and parish councils continues to thrive as more and more services are passed back to individual communities where better delivery will be achieved. Our work with partners continues to grow and deliver real results. This will continue and be developed further.

“There is a real dynamic for change within the Cabinet and one we are firmly committed to achieving. 2012 will see that achievement. Of that I am confident.

“With this in mind, I wish you all a very happy New Year.”

Search for missing Congleton pensioner enters second day

Cheshire Police continue to appeal for the whereabouts of an elderly lady reported missing from her home in Congleton.

Police have been searching for 84 year old Magdalana Whittaker of Boundary Lane in Congleton since she was reported missing by a concerned neighbour on Christmas Eve.

Inspector Steve Griffiths, who is co-ordinating the search for the pensioners whereabouts, said "The search for Magdalana now enters its second day and we understand that there was a sighting of her by a friend in Congleton town centre at around 5pm on Friday 23rd December. Nobody has seen her in almost 48 hours and we are very concerned. Our worry is further exacerbated by the fact that Magdalana is an elderly lady who is very hard of hearing."

Magdalana does not own a car nor is it believed she has a mobile phone. She is described as of slim build, 5 feet tall, with grey hair. When she was seen on 23rd December she was dressed in a green anorak, black trousers and a multicoloured hat. She speaks German and English. Magdalana often walks along the railway tracks near to her home where she collects logs and Police are keen to hear from anyone who may take the same route and may have seen Magdalana to get in touch.

Cheshire Police are utilising officers on the ground including lowland search and rescue, dog patrols and air support. Police are keen to hear from anyone who knows Magdalana and has seen or heard from her in the last 48 hours, to come forward. Similarly, anyone who may have seen anyone matching her description in the Congleton area are asked to contact Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident 580 of 24th December.

Cheshire Police advise people to stay safe this Christmas

 

The festive period brings times of joy for many people but it may not be a happy time for those who choose to drink too much. This Christmas, Cheshire Police is reminding people to drink responsibly so they don′t put themselves at risk.

During the festive period there tends to be an increase in the number of alcohol related incidents. Cheshire Police advise people to be on their guard and warns that becoming extremely intoxicated can put you at risk. Alcohol can make you do things you wouldn′t usually do, it can lower your inhibitions, you may trust people that you wouldn′t if you were sober.

Chief Superintendent Richard Strachan added: "Christmas is a time for celebrating which can involve alcohol, unfortunately people can get carried away and drink too much. Women and men who have too much to drink leave themselves at an increased risk of becoming a victim of crime. If you don′t keep your wits about you, you can end up losing your property or having it stolen. Before you go out think about how you are going to get home, make sure you save enough money, always stick with your friends and don′t get in unlicensed taxis."

Anyone planning on enjoying a night out this Christmas is also advised to go out dressed suitably for the weather, at worst people are at risk of getting hypothermia or at best just falling over in high heels. Don′t let a good night out turn ugly.

To get the message across to people visiting Warrington Cheshire Police had a digital Ad-van travel around the town centre in a bid to convey the dangers of drinking excessively. If you have seen the Ad-van around and found it to be beneficial please feel free to leave a comment on our website http://www.cheshire.police.uk/.

Cheshire East cracks down on benefits cheat

 

A Cheshire East benefits cheat has been fined after he was found guilty of fraudulently claiming more than £1,500.

James Campbell, 30, of Havannah Street, Congleton, failed to appear before Macclesfield Magistrates Court on November 20. He was found guilty in his absence of one count of benefit fraud.  A warrant with bail was issued and he attended Crewe Magistrates’ Court on December 16, 2011.

The overpayment of £1,695.71 was in relation to an offence committed against Cheshire East Council between April 19, 2010 and October 17, 2010.

Campbell fraudulently claimed housing benefit and council tax benefit. His Jobseekers’ Allowance ceased in April 2010 and he had started work at the Cheshire Tavern, in Congleton, which he failed to declare to the Council. 

Campbell was invited to attend several interviews under caution with investigators to discuss this matter but he failed to attend. The Council had no alternative but to pass the matter to its prosecution team.

The overpayment totalled £1,447.94 housing benefit and £2,47.77 Council Tax benefit.

Councillor David Brown, Cheshire East Cabinet member with responsibility for performance and capacity, said: “Cheshire East Council does not tolerate people cheating honest taxpayers. Such fraudsters will be rigorously pursued through the courts and brought to justice.

“Benefit fraud robs hard-working communities of vital resources needed to provide much-needed public services. Such criminal acts rob councils and the Government of hard-pressed funds that could be spent helping the most vulnerable and needy people in our communities.

“The Council has a moral duty to honest taxpayers to take robust action against a selfish minority of people who try to dodge their responsibilities and defraud the public purse.”

Mr Campbell was fined £180 by magistrates. The Council was awarded £200 court costs and a £15 victim surcharge.  A Compensation Order for £1695.71 was imposed by the court, which Campbell must repay at £50 per week.

Campbell now lives in Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire.

Meeting Your Priorities for Policing

 

Cheshire Police Authority is sounding out public opinion on possibilities for the Chief Constable′s policing objectives for 2012/13.

Public consultation at a series of Roadshows during December and January is a key factor in the decisions the Authority will take. People are also being asked to express their views by email or by letter.

Listening to people′s views about policing and where they feel the police should focus their time and effort is an important part of the Authority′s role. During 2011 we have gathered the views of more than 1,300 members of the public about their priorities for policing and about police services.

The results show that the top 5 areas described as ‘essential′ by the public are:

• responding to emergency calls
• detecting crime and arresting offenders
• tackling violent crime
• tackling organised crime and terrorism
• targeting drug dealers

The Authority has considered the results of the consultation and the priorities set for policing by the Coalition Government.

Each year, this process helps the Authority decide the key policing objectives which will be published in the Authority′s Policing Plan.

We then scrutinise the Constabulary′s performance against the objectives throughout the year. The proposed objectives for the coming year are:-

1. Respond as an emergency service and improve the way we care for individuals and the public and protect our communities from serious harm

2. Understand and strive to meet the expectations of the people of Cheshire

3. Maintain the trust and confidence of the public

4. Work with the public and our partners to reduce those crimes and acts of anti-social behaviour which the public are concerned about

5. Continue to increase the level of positive outcomes, provide the best care for victims and witnesses and work effectively with our partners to reduce re-offending

6. Improve the efficiency of our people and make best use of resources to prevent waste and duplication.

The Authority is asking people to comment on these proposals at the road shows being held across Cheshire in December 2011 and January 2012. Alternatively, the public can comment on the proposed objectives by sending an e.mail to police.authority@cheshire.pnn.police.uk , or by writing to us at: Cheshire Police Authority, Clemonds Hey, Oakmere Road, Winsford, CW7 2UA.

All comments must be received by no later than Friday 3 February 2012.

Police release photo of missing North Wales man

Police have released a photograph of a man from North Wales reported missing following a Christmas party in Chester this weekend.
18 year old Haydn Mark Evans from Mold in North Wales failed to return home from a works Christmas party at Carden Park Hotel, Broxton Road near Chester on Friday 16 December.
Haydn was last seen around 1am Saturday morning at the front door ofCarden Park Hotel and his family have not had any contact with him since.
Haydnis approximately 5foot nine in height, is slim and has short brown hair and blue eyes. Hewas last seen wearing a dark long sleeved shirt andtrousers. He did not have a jacket or coatwith him but he may have had some money and his mobile phone.The weather has been extremely cold and police are concerned that Haydn, who is unfamiliar with the local area, may have become disorientated in the unfamiliar surroundings.
Extensive searches are now being conducted by Cheshire Police to trace Haydn′s whereabouts and police are asking anyone who lives in the area to check any empty buildings on their land, including farm outbuildings, sheds or garages in case Haydn has taken shelter from the cold weather.
Police would like to hear from any dog walkers, or anyone else who went walking in the countryside around Carden Park Hotel on Saturday 17th December,to make contact if they saw anyone fitting Haydn′s description.
Police are also appealingfor anyone who was traveling on the A41 Whitchurch Road, or A534 Wrexham Road, during the early hours of Saturday 17th December and saw anyone who fits Haydn′s description to make contact with Cheshire Police.
Police are urging any taxi drivers who may have seen someone fitting Haydn′s description in the area around Carden Park, or who may have taken a fare from someone fitting his description to make contact immediately as they may have information that will assist in locating Haydn.
Anyone who has any information is asked to call Cheshire Police using the new 101 policecontact number.