Erewash MP Jessica Lee to stand down at next general election

January 20, 2014, 6:30 am

≫ Next: Derby County hero Patrick Bamford dedicates goal against Brighton to former Nottingham Forest chairman Nigel Doughty

≪ Previous: Derby's week in pictures: Stars tattooed, students graduated and a much-needed Rams win

$

0

0

EREWASH MP Jessica Lee is to stand down at the next general election - after just one term in office. Miss Lee advised the Prime Minister about her decision in a letter. It means she will stand down in 2010. Miss Lee said: "I'm extremely sad to announce that I've taken the really difficult decision not to stand for re-election at the General Election in May 2015. "I have carefully considered my personal circumstances and responsibilities at this time, before taking this decision. "I will remain, carrying out my duties to my constituents, full time and fully committed as the Conservative Member of Parliament for Erewash until my successor is elected in May 2015." Miss Lee was voted in at the May 2010 general election. She said: "It has been a huge honour serving as the Member of Parliament for Erewash and I still have much more to do over the next year and a half. "It has been my privilege to really stand up and speak up for the constituency - in particular to lead the campaign to get the railway station open again in Ilkeston which is now on track. "The chance to serve a community close to my roots and family background is something I will always be grateful that I have had the honour to do."

---

Derby County hero Patrick Bamford dedicates goal against Brighton to former Nottingham Forest chairman Nigel Doughty

January 20, 2014, 6:50 am

≫ Next: Fellow Coronation Street star called William Roache 'cockroach', trial told

≪ Previous: Erewash MP Jessica Lee to stand down at next general election

$

0

0

PATRICK Bamford fired Derby County to victory over Brighton & Hove Albion – and dedicated his winner to the former chairman of their arch rivals, Nottingham Forest. Bamford, on loan from Chelsea, came off the bench to score his first goal for the Rams at the iPro Stadium on Saturday. He celebrated his fine 76th-minute strike by raising his hands to the sky, in memory of the late Forest owner – and his godfather – Nigel Doughty. Doughty died suddenly aged 54 in February 2012 at his home in Lincolnshire. The following month, the Rams had to issue a public apology after some supporters initiated distasteful chants about Doughty during a match against Forest. Bamford, who started his career at the City Ground, said: "I don't know whether the fans will like me saying this but I was really close to the ex-chairman at Forest, Nigel. "So I was just saying thank you to him, really. "Him and my dad were best mates, ever since they were growing up. "And I grew up with his son, Michael, who is on loan at Stevenage (from Queens Park Rangers) at the moment. "I didn't see them that much during school time but during the holidays, we used to always spend time together. "It was a sad loss." Bamford, who hails from Norwell in Nottinghamshire, made only two senior appearances as a substitute for Forest before he was snapped up by Chelsea for £1.5m in January 2012. His time there overlapped with Steve McClaren's brief stint in charge. Now head coach at Derby, McClaren was keen to be reunited with 20-year-old Bamford, who spent the first half of this season on loan at League One side MK Dons, where he scored 17 goals in 30 appearances. There was plenty of interest from other Championship clubs but the Rams got their man in the end. "I think there were three clubs leading the race – Burnley, Wigan and Derby," said Bamford. "I think Steve spoke to Chelsea and they gave him permission to give me a call while I was away in Dubai in December. "He said he was keen to have me here and he was the first manager I spoke to. "I was keen straight away and I knew Derby were doing well. I also knew what Steve was about – the way he plays and the way he trains. "It was a case of assessing the options but this was my preferred option. "Chelsea also know a lot about him and were happy for me to come here, under his guidance." Bamford made his Derby debut as a second-half substitute in the 4-1 defeat at leaders Leicester City. Against Brighton, the England Under-21 forward replaced Simon Dawkins after an hour. Having blazed a free kick wildly over the bar ("I was just getting warmed up!"), Bamford finally broke the deadlock in a game of few chances. "I was delighted to get the goal," he said. "When I woke up on the morning of the game, I felt I was going to score. "While I'm still on the bench, I've just got to look to make an impact when I come on. "I try to make things happen and I think I did that when I came on against Brighton." He added: "One of the things I have been working on while I was at MK Dons was being ruthless. "When you get that one chance, you've got to take it. "That's what I did and, fortunately, it turned out to be the winning goal." After Jamie Ward appeared to be brought down by Keith Andrews just outside the box, Bamford pounced and stroked a 20-yard curler into the net. "I would have been disappointed if the referee has blown his whistle (for a foul)," he said. "You've got to allow for the advantage for so long and I'm glad he didn't blow. I would have been fuming!"

Fellow Coronation Street star called William Roache 'cockroach', trial told

January 20, 2014, 7:00 am

≫ Next: Review: Cupola:Ward Live folk music with a twist

≪ Previous: Derby County hero Patrick Bamford dedicates goal against Brighton to former Nottingham Forest chairman Nigel Doughty

$

0

0

ILKESTON-BORN Coronation Street star William Roache was called a "cockroach" by a fellow cast member, a court heard today. And one of his alleged sex assault victims was warned by Peter Adamson, who played Len Fairclough in the soap, that he would "lead you astray", the jury heard. The witness claims Roache indecently assaulted her when she was about 14 after he arranged passes for herself and her younger sister on a visit to Granada Studios in Manchester. She told the jury at Preston Crown Court last week that Roache groped her in a room after being led past the Rovers Return pub on the set. Today, she was cross-examined by the defendant's lawyer, Louise Blackwell QC, and claimed that Mr Adamson made the "cockroach" remark about the actor while she was at the studios. "It was Len Fairclough that made the comment," she said. "Because when he said it he looked directly at him and he looked at us and said 'You want to keep your eye on him, he will lead you astray' and he called him 'cockroach'." Roache, 81, now of Wilmslow, Cheshire, denies two counts of rapes and five counts of indecent assault involving five complainants aged 16 and under on dates between 1965 and 1971. The court heard that the alleged victim and her sister would sit on the steps outside the studio in the summer holidays in the mid to late 1960s, along with other girls and boys who were autograph-hunting. But on one occasion after being invited inside the studios, Roache, who has played Ken Barlow in the ITV soap for more than 50 years, took her to his dressing room and indecently assaulted her by putting his hands on her breasts and up her skirt. She told police: "He was like an octopus - hands everywhere." Challenged about her account of what happened by Miss Blackwell, the witness told the court: "It happened, no matter what you are saying or what your job is, it happened. I have no reason to lie, no reason in the world." Later Miss Blackwell put it to the witness: "Are you even trying to tell the truth here?" "I'm telling the truth," she replied. "Why the hell would I put myself through all of this?" Roache was charged last May with two counts of rape on one alleged victim, with the publicity that followed leading to the four other complainants coming forward. The witness said she felt the incident had been her fault "for being there in the first place". Her sister claims she was abused by Roache on a separate occasion. The witness was asked by Miss Blackwell about press interest in her story and reporters visiting her house. She said her sister had "two visits from the Mirror" and had been offered £25,000 for her story. The witness added she was visited once by a reporter from The Sun, but the only money mentioned was a donation of an undisclosed amount to a charity. "I know what's going through your mind," she told Miss Blackwell, "and it's not going to happen, because I did not want money." She added: "If I wanted money I could've sold my story but I have not sold my story. I have spoken to nobody except those who should know."

Review: Cupola:Ward Live folk music with a twist

January 20, 2014, 7:14 am

≫ Next: Derbyshire man arrested on suspicion of sending racist Tweets linked to disappearance of Mikaeel Kular, three

≪ Previous: Fellow Coronation Street star called William Roache 'cockroach', trial told

$

0

0

Not only did Lucy Ward's silver boots sparkle, but so did the audience as it gave a warm welcome to Cupola:Ward at this Launch Party of their first headlining concert at Derby Guildhall. These two Derby-based folk acts joined together to present an unusual blend of music and song. Cupola, also celebrating 5 years together, comprises of Doug Eulson (Hurdy Gurdy/Melodeon), Sarah Matthews (Singer/Songwriter/Fiddle) and Oli Matthews (Clarinet//Drums) with Lucy Ward (singer/songwriter/guitarist) whose successful solo career is flying high, as her loyal Derbyshire fans know. They kicked off the concert with the traditional 'Bone Lace Weaver'. Doug started playing the hurdy gurdy, followed by Sarah on fiddle and Oli on clarinet with a hint of Eastern European flavour weaving through. Lucy, with her uniquely powerful and vibrant vocals, got the audience foot tapping. This surprising mixture and over layering of musical arrangements and choice of songs was to be a theme running through their first full flown gig together. The familiar traditional folk songs, such as 'John Barleycorn', 'Down to the River to Pray' and 'Cotton Mills Of Cromford' were peppered with more modern day songs. Their folkie rendition of Jim Reeves country style song 'When God Dips His Pen Of Love Into My Heart' was an enjoyable surprise. And their interpretations of Bob Dylan's 'One More Cup of Coffee', the Beatles 'Nowhere Man' and Britney Spears 'Baby One More Time' delighted all. In fact Britney Spears should return the compliment and record one of Sarah's or Lucy's songs. But the overall delight was their finely accomplished, intricate vocal harmonies and rich mixture of musical arrangements. All these were brought together for the final encore of Derby-born, Dave Sudbury's poignant and moving song of a famous racing pigeon called 'King Of Rome', bred by pigeon fancier Charles Hudson, who, in fact, used to write for Derby Telegraph in the early 1900's. Both acts are busy in their own right. Cupola is off playing not only in the UK, but also in Europe and Canada. Lucy Ward. having won numerous awards, in her short successful time on the Folk Scene, has been nominated for more in 2014. She has formed her own new band and is touring and can be seen at Matlock Grand Pavilion on 14 April.

Derbyshire man arrested on suspicion of sending racist Tweets linked to disappearance of Mikaeel Kular, three

January 20, 2014, 7:15 am

≫ Next: Traditional Derby pubs did not have so many problems with customers

≪ Previous: Review: Cupola:Ward Live folk music with a twist

$

0

0

A 26-YEAR-OLD Derbyshire man has been arrested on suspicion of sending racist Tweets linked to the tragic story of Edinburgh toddler Mikaeel Kular. A 33-year-old woman, understood to be the child's mother, Rosdeep Kular, has been arrested and charged in connection with the death of the three-year-old. It was widely reported that the mother was being questioned by officers after a body was discovered in Fife, miles from the youngster's home. The arrest was announced by Police Scotland Assistant Chief Constable Malcolm Graham, who said: "The investigation into the disappearance of Mikaeel Kular has continued at pace. "Following formal identification, I can now confirm that a 33-year-old woman has been arrested and charged in connection with Mikaeel's death." She is expected to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court today. Derbyshire police yesterday confirmed that its officers had arrested a 26-year-old Heanor man who is suspected of sending racist tweets connected with the incident. A police statement said the arrest was made "on suspicion of committing a racially aggravated public order offence". It said: "Members of the public in Edinburgh had complained about the content of some Twitter messages linked to the disappearance of three-year-old Mikaeel Kular. "The man was questioned and released on police bail while the Crown Prosecution Service considers the case." Another man, aged 19, of Hampshire, has also been arrested on suspicion of racist Tweets connected to the case, questioned and bailed. A Derbyshire police spokeswoman said she could not say whether the Tweets involved had been removed. She said of the nature of the Heanor arrest: "It isn't a common occurrence but, as the police in Scotland have said, if people make these sorts of comments then the police will try and find them and take appropriate action." A major police investigation was launched to trace Mikaeel after he was reported missing from his home in Edinburgh's Ferry Gait Crescent on Thursday. More than 200 members of the public joined the search for the youngster in the Drylaw area of the capital. Officers found remains – now identified as Mikaeel's – in Kirkcaldy, Fife, early on Saturday morning.

Traditional Derby pubs did not have so many problems with customers

January 20, 2014, 8:00 am

≫ Next: Girl starved of oxygen at Derby hospital wins multi-million-pound pay-out

≪ Previous: Derbyshire man arrested on suspicion of sending racist Tweets linked to disappearance of Mikaeel Kular, three

$

0

0

I WOULD like to respond to some comments in the Derby Telegraph about booze being the cause of fights and scuffles in Derby city centre. I have over 50 years of drinking behind me, and happy times they were. Unfortunately, we have no longer got the traditional English pub where there was a piano and microphone for the customers to enjoy themselves. We no longer have the responsible landlord to keep order in his pub, as this was his bread and butter which he relied on to support himself and family. There are very few, if any, landlords running pubs in Derby. You no longer get the personal greeting to enjoy the night. What we have today is a café bar or eating outlet run by people with very little knowledge of people's behaviour when they have had a lot to drink. And the smoking ban causes customers to stand outside and therefore cause an obstruction on our pavements. There were some pubs open at 7am for market traders and people travelling by boat or train and this was back in the 1960s, so licensing hours were no problem. If revellers set out to get drunk and do themselves or others any injuries, any medical treatment they receive should be paid for by the revellers involved. This will help with some NHS funding. Being drunk in a public place is flouting our laws. Frank Dunne Reginald Street Derby

Girl starved of oxygen at Derby hospital wins multi-million-pound pay-out

January 20, 2014, 9:30 am

≫ Next: Alleged victim of Derbyshire-born actor William Roache says she felt like a "coward" for not going to police earlier

≪ Previous: Traditional Derby pubs did not have so many problems with customers

$

0

0

A 10-YEAR-OLD girl who was starved of oxygen during her birth at Derby City General Hospital today won a multi-million-pound damages payout from the NHS. Derby Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust admitted full liability for devastating damage to the youngster's brain and agreed to a compensation package which includes a £2.75 million lump sum. The little girl, who cannot be named due to her acute vulnerability, had sued the Trust through her father and will also receive annual, index-linked and tax-free payments to cover the enormous costs of the care she will need for life. Those payments will start at £47,000-a-year, before rising to £64,700-a-year when she is 14 and to £167,000-a-year from her 19th birthday. Approving the deal, Judge William Birtles described the girl's disabilities as 'profound'. She was currently totally dependent on the care of others, although she had strong potential to become at least partially independent after she reaches adulthood, he added. Ordering that the girl must not be identified in reports of the case, the judge said that, if unscrupulous people learnt of the size of her award, she might be viewed as presenting an 'opportunity for exploitation'. Publicity that identified her could also lead to difficulties at the school she attends and would cause her unnecessary distress. Judge Birtles told the girl's father, who was at the High Court in London today: "May I say that this is a tragic case. You have my deepest sympathy and I can only hope that this money will make your daughter's life more bearable. "You have my admiration for the burden that you have taken on and I hope that this settlement will go some way to making your lives better."

Alleged victim of Derbyshire-born actor William Roache says she felt like a "coward" for not going to police earlier

January 21, 2014, 5:55 am

≫ Next: Jealous Derby mum Sonita Claire jailed for seven years after mowing down ex-lover and his partner

≪ Previous: Girl starved of oxygen at Derby hospital wins multi-million-pound pay-out

$

0

0

AN alleged sex assault victim of Coronation Street star William Roache said she felt "a coward" for not going to the police sooner. The woman claims the actor made her perform a sex act on him while he gave her a lift home in his Rolls-Royce. The alleged incident is said to have happened between June 1968 and September 1971. Jurors at Preston Crown Court heard she contacted police on May 1 last year on the day that it emerged that Roache had been arrested on suspicion of raping a young girl. Giving evidence, she was asked by prosecutor Anne Whyte if that had had any effect. She replied: "She made me feel a coward because she came forward first. She had guts to do it. "She was brave enough to do it. "I didn't have the guts to do it first." Ilkeston-born Roache, 81, of Wilmslow, Cheshire, denies two counts of rape and five counts of indecent assault involving five complainants aged 16 and under on dates between 1965 and 1971. The witness's sister, who is two years older, claimed Roache indecently assaulted her on a separate occasion when she was aged 14, after they were both invited inside the studios by the defendant. The witness was asked during a police interview why she had not previously come forward. She said: "Because I feel intimidated. "People think he (Roache) is some kind of super actor and he is so good and so lovely. "You don't stand a chance if you come forward and if I did go to court." The officer asked how she felt about the actor now. "I hate him," she said. The witness also told the court of her annoyance following an interview the soapstar had given. She said: "He said young girls who were going through this, they are being punished from a previous life... something they had done. That really annoyed me." The trial continues.

---

Jealous Derby mum Sonita Claire jailed for seven years after mowing down ex-lover and his partner

January 21, 2014, 6:01 am

≫ Next: Derby City Councillor Balbir Sandhu has dangerous dog charges dropped

≪ Previous: Alleged victim of Derbyshire-born actor William Roache says she felt like a "coward" for not going to police earlier

$

0

0

Jealous mum-of-one Sonita Claire ploughed her car into her ex-lover and his partner - leaving him with a broken neck. Jailing the 28-year-old for seven years, Judge Michael Stokes said: "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned". Kevin O'Neill and Mary-Jane Kimble were walking along the pavement in City Road, Derby, last October, when Claire, of Park Grove, Derby, mowed them down. Nottingham Crown Court heard today that the pair hit the windscreen with Claire driving almost 40 metres down the road before they fell off. Judge Stokes said the offence was caused by "a combination of jealousy and revenge". He added: "You had no control over whether they would live or die." Mr O'Neill, 36, was left with fractured vertebrae in his neck and a fractured collar bone. Miss Kimble, 32 escaped with cuts and bruises. Claire admitted two counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

Derby City Councillor Balbir Sandhu has dangerous dog charges dropped

January 21, 2014, 6:03 am

≫ Next: Paul Ince sacked at Derby County's Championship rivals Blackpool

≪ Previous: Jealous Derby mum Sonita Claire jailed for seven years after mowing down ex-lover and his partner

$

0

0

A DERBY city councillor has had two charges of being responsible for a pair of out of control dogs thrown out. Balbir Sandhu had pleaded not guilty to two charges under the Dangerous Dogs Act following an attack on Squires Way, Littleover, on September 6. Today Mr Sandhu, of Field Rise, Littleover, appeared at Chesterfield Magistrates' Court where he was due to be tried on the charges. However the case was thrown out because of the wording of the charges brought against Mr Sandhu. District Judge Maurice Cooper said: "There is no evidence that Balbir Sandhu was in charge of either dog at the time and the two charges will have to be dismissed." When asked to comment about the case outside the court Mr Sandhu did not wish to do so. Mr Sandhu's wife, Jaswinder Kaur, admitted the same two offences and will be sentenced on February 10 at the same court. The case was dealt with at Chesterfield because Mr Sandhu is well known as a Derby city councillor.

Paul Ince sacked at Derby County's Championship rivals Blackpool

January 21, 2014, 6:18 am

≫ Next: Police investigating ecstasy linked death of Leabrooks teenager

≪ Previous: Derby City Councillor Balbir Sandhu has dangerous dog charges dropped

$

0

0

Paul Ince has been sacked as manager of Blackpool after protracted crisis talks at Derby County's Championship rivals. Last night, Ince had appeared to survive the talks with chairman Karl Oyston, having been called in, along with assistants Alex Rae and Steve Thompson, following the team's 2-0 defeat at Barnsley. Blackpool are winless since November. Earlier in the season, Ince served a five-match touchline ban after abusing officials. He had replaced Michael Appleton only in February 2013.

Police investigating ecstasy linked death of Leabrooks teenager

January 21, 2014, 6:30 am

≫ Next: 1.85% council tax rise proposed by city council and 1.99% by county

≪ Previous: Paul Ince sacked at Derby County's Championship rivals Blackpool

$

0

0

POLICE are investigating the death of a 19-year-old man which is being linked to ecstasy tablets. Officers were called to an address on Chapel Street, Leabrooks, near Alfreton, at about 11.20pm on Saturday by the ambulance service who were treating the man. He was taken to hospital where he was later pronounced dead. Initial tests on tablets recovered indicated that they did not contain any genuine ecstasy, though further tests will be required to find the exact ingredients. A 16-year-old boy and an 18-year-old woman have been arrested in connection with supplying drugs. They have been released on bail pending further inquiries. Various other people have been spoken to in connection with the investigation. Anybody with information about the supply of illegal drugs should ring the force on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

1.85% council tax rise proposed by city council and 1.99% by county

January 21, 2014, 7:15 am

≫ Next: New vision revealed for future of Elvaston Castle

≪ Previous: Police investigating ecstasy linked death of Leabrooks teenager

$

0

0

A 1.85% council tax increase is proposed by Derby City Council and a 1.99% increase by Derbyshire County Council for 2014-15. Both Labour-lead authorities say the increases are needed to help them deal with unprecedented budget pressures, including cuts to their grants from the Government. The city council needs to save about £29 million in 2014-15 and says the 1.85% increase would contribute £1.3 million towards plugging its funding blackhole. The county says its increase will raise £5 million towards a £36.7 million savings target. If the increases are confirmed in March, the annual cost of city council tax for Band D properties in Derby will rise from £1,143.63 to £1,164.23. In the county it would rise from £1077.22 per year to £1098.71. Both figures are below the 2% figure at which council's have to hold a public referendum that would decide if the proposals go ahead or not. At the city council, Sarah Russell, cabinet member for business, finance and democracy, said the increase was needed to "protect frontline services". She said: "It's a case of trying to plug the gap from the cash we are losing in Government grant. "But it's not going to plug the gap - nowhere near." County council leader Anne Western said: "Increasing council tax is the last thing we want to do. "We know residents are struggling to make ends meet and we've done our best to keep council tax just below the rate inflation. "Freezing council tax this year will only make next year more painful because we've got to make cuts every year for the next five years."

New vision revealed for future of Elvaston Castle

January 21, 2014, 8:33 am

≫ Next: New details of what customers could see at Derby City Council's new £27.5 million Arena revealed

≪ Previous: 1.85% council tax rise proposed by city council and 1.99% by county

$

0

0

ELVASTON Castle and Country Park is set to remain open to the public for at least another 10 years, ending the threat of a private takeover. Cash-strapped owners Derbyshire County Council had considered selling the estate as it costs £800,000-a-year to run and needs £6.5 million worth of repairs. But the authority has now vowed to retain Elvaston so it can "continue to be enjoyed by the public". A draft 10-year vision and plan that would see the castle remain open to the public, with free access to its grounds, was announced by the council today. To achieve this, the council said it would work with the National Trust and English Heritage to set up a "single management body" – a collection of partners from the public, voluntary, private and social enterprise sectors. Once established, the body will be tasked with raising funds to run the estate. Early ideas include selling off parts of the estate for "sensitive and unintrusive development", including bringing buildings such as the kennels and Home Farm back into use. All decisions will be aimed at championing the vision, which has "conservation, heritage and public access" at its key objectives. The cabinet member for Council Services, Councillor Brian Ridgway, hailed the draft vision – which will be finalised after a public consultation – as a significant breakthrough for the estate's future. He said: "Elvaston is a jewel in the crown of South Derbyshire. It is great news that the house and its grounds will remain with the people of Derbyshire. It's theirs. "The vision also aims to put the estate on a sound financial footing with a business model that creates income that is reinvested in the stewardship of the estate, without eroding its special qualities and significance." Mr Ridgway said the council would retain the freehold of the estate but "step back" from running it. He said it will be up to the management body to decide whether to charge the public for access to the house. Graham Mansey, chairman of The Friends of Elvaston Castle, welcomed the draft vision. He said: "The Friends obviously welcome the fresh impetus in finding a long-term solution to the future of Elvaston Castle, provided that it remains available to all members of the community. "We look forward to studying the cabinet-approved draft vision and plan." A council spokeswoman said the authority will soon be promoting the opportunity for potential partners to invest in Elvaston.HAVE YOUR SAY ON THE VISION TWO public events will be held to allow people to learn about the draft vision and plan. The first will be a workshop at Spondon Village Hall, in Sitwell Street, on Febuary 1 from 10.30am to 1.30pm. The second event will be a drop in session at the Gothic Hall, Elvaston Castle, on February 15 between 10.30am and 3pm. The draft vision and plan is available to view online at http://www.futureelvaston.co.uk/engagement-consultation. A paper version of the vision is available from reception at Elvaston Castle, County Hall in Matlock, local libraries or by calling Julie Rodgers on 07789 032020. The consultation process closes on March 5.

New details of what customers could see at Derby City Council's new £27.5 million Arena revealed

January 21, 2014, 11:30 am

≫ Next: Toy chain Smyths' new Derby store will bring 30 jobs

≪ Previous: New vision revealed for future of Elvaston Castle

$

0

0

NEW details of what customers could get when they visit Derby's new £27.5 million Arena have been revealed. The Derby Telegraph had already reported how the Pride Park venue would include a 250m indoor cycling track, a 125-piece gym, an infield sports area with badminton and basketball, a café, and that it could be converted into a 5,000-seat concert arena. The new details, released in a draft "customer experience document", also show pictures of what the interior could look like. But the council is clear that it is a draft and that "final details have not yet been confirmed". The document says customers at the Arena will have to complete a taster session before they are allowed to gain full track accreditation. Riders who are already accredited on one of the other tracks around the country will have to provide proof and undergo a probationary period. There will also be a sophisticated IT system which will remember the size of bicycle, helmet, and shoes which each customers need. Interactive touch screens with activity timetables and upcoming events could also grace the stadium. A 50 seat café with a beverage offer similar to Costa Coffee will provide refreshments. And a total of 12 badminton, three basketball, three netball and three volleyball courts will be created. The council has said that the 4,000 figure given for the concert arena in the document is incorrect and that the total remains 5,000. Opening times and pricing have not yet been confirmed. The Arena is set for completion in late November.

---

Toy chain Smyths' new Derby store will bring 30 jobs

January 22, 2014, 12:15 pm

≫ Next: Police in 11-hour stand off in James Road, Normanton

≪ Previous: New details of what customers could see at Derby City Council's new £27.5 million Arena revealed

$

0

0

A MAJOR toy retailer has confirmed it will be opening a store in Derby which will create more than 30 jobs.

Smyths Toys Superstores has said it will be launching the new outlet at Kingsway Retail Park in early April.

The firm will be taking part of a unit formerly operated by now defunct electrical retailer Comet.

Following Comet's demise, which resulted in the loss of 20 jobs, the store was divided into two separate units by park owner Henderson Global Investors.

Last year, arts and crafts retailer Hobbycraft took over 9,000 sq ft of the building, creating 25 jobs.

Now, Smyths has said it will be taking the remaining 15,000sq ft.

The Derby Telegraph first revealed last month that Smyths could be on its way to Derby. Now, the company has confirmed its impending arrival, with the new store set to open on Saturday, April 5

Marketing manager Dryden Geary said: "Smyths Toys Superstores is thrilled to announce the opening of our new store in Derby.

"We look forward to offering people the best possible selection and quality of products, all delivered with exceptional service."

The company is looking to fill a range of positions, from retail assistants to management roles.

Smyths said it expected to create more jobs towards the latter half of the year.

Mr Geary said: "We are looking for hard-working, enthusiastic staff and encourage them to find out more on our website where positions will be advertised as they become available."

In recent years, the Irish firm has grown rapidly and today has almost 70 stores across the UK and Ireland, employing 700 people.

This number is expected to grow further this year as Smyths plans to open another five to six stores, including the Derby outlet. Once open, the store will sell a range of toys and video games for children of all ages.

The arrival of Smyths is yet another boost for Kingsway Retail Park, which is already home to major names such as Currys/PC World, TK Maxx, Argos, Pets at Home, SCS, Boots, Harveys, Halfords, Marks and Spencer, Next, Sainsbury's and Homebase.

Last year, the retail park increased its food and drink offering by building three new units, housing a Greggs, Costa Coffee and Subway.

The Smyths jobs boost comes at a time when the number of people looking for work in the city is falling.

The most recent figures from the Office for National Statistics show that the number of people claiming Jobseeker's Allowance in Derby fell in November from 5,771 to 5,348 – a drop of 423 or 7.3%.

The last time the figure was this low was in November 2008, when it stood at 5,069. The ONS is due to release the city's jobseekers figures for December tomorrow.

The retail sector has played a key role in Derby's dwindling dole queue.

It has been helped by some major store openings in the city, including The Range at the Meteor Centre, which opened its value department store in November, creating 150 jobs.

The unit it took over had been occupied by defunct DIY retailer Focus.

And, on Boxing Day, furniture retailer Lee Longlands opened for business in the former Co-op department store in Exchange Street, in the city centre.

The Co-op closed the store last year, which resulted in the loss of 58 jobs.

Lee Longlands has created 20 jobs at its store – and took on five former Co-op staff.

Police in 11-hour stand off in James Road, Normanton

January 22, 2014, 12:15 pm

≫ Next: End of the road for Derby family firm Engments after 53 years

≪ Previous: Toy chain Smyths' new Derby store will bring 30 jobs

$

0

0

POLICE negotiators were involved in an 11-hour stand-off with a man in Derby last night. The 37-year-old had locked himself in a house in St James Road, Normanton, and threatened to self-harm, a force spokesman said. Officers were called to the property at 10pm last night and the man eventually handed himself in to the police at 8.45am this morning. No-one was hurt.

End of the road for Derby family firm Engments after 53 years

January 22, 2014, 12:15 pm

≫ Next: 56-year-old man dies after becoming trapped between two lorries at Toyota

≪ Previous: Police in 11-hour stand off in James Road, Normanton

$

0

0

ADMINISTRATORS at a Derby engineering firm which has been operating for more than 50 years have confirmed they have started a "phased close-down" of the business. Last week, as reported in the Derby Telegraph, Engments, in Chequers Road, on the West Meadows Industrial Estate, called in joint administrators Paul Finnity and Jill Sandford from Baker Tilly. They were brought in as the firm, which also has another site in Shaftesbury Street, had been trading at a loss, following a decline in contracts. Initially, 15 of its 54 staff were made redundant as administrators looked to streamline the company into a saleable business. But following a review of the business, which supplies engineered components, they have decided to start a phased closure of the company. It is understood that a number of redundancies have been made this week. Mrs Sandford said: "After reviewing the trading position of the company, we have concluded that we are unable to trade the business profitably and are now implementing a phased close-down of the business." Engments' main customer is Derby train-maker Bombardier. In a move designed to maintain jobs at the firm, Bombardier had said it would continue support to Engments in order to give the administrators time to secure a successful sale of the business. Mr Finnity said Engments, which was founded in 1961, had suffered trading losses over the past two years as the rail industry experienced a decline in contracts. It was founded by former Rolls-Royce apprentice Ted Hough, who worked alongside a part-time member of staff in the firm's first premises in Draycott. Since the firm was founded it had remained family-owned and run. It opened its manufacturing premises in Chequers Road in 1985. Founder Mr Hough died in 2002 and the reins were taken up by his son, Alan, who joined the business in 1972. In 2011, Engments was one of a number of Bombardier suppliers which were left reeling after the train-maker lost out on the £1.6 billion Thameslink rolling stock contract. If the Litchurch Lane firm had won the work, which was eventually awarded to German firm Siemens, Engments would have taken on an extra 20 full-time staff. Instead, it had to let go 10 contract workers. At the time, Mr Hough said: "All suppliers will have factored Thameslink into their budgets but the fact that it is now not coming to Derby means we now have to find work to replace it – and there isn't a great deal else out there. "Siemens is making the trains in Germany and will already have its own supply chain established there. "This makes it almost impossible for us to compete with them on a cost-effective basis."

56-year-old man dies after becoming trapped between two lorries at Toyota

January 22, 2014, 12:30 pm

≫ Next: Metal thieves brave barbed wire to kick hole in roof of Silly Sids

≪ Previous: End of the road for Derby family firm Engments after 53 years

$

0

0

A 56-YEAR-OLD man has died after becoming trapped between two lorries at Toyota's Burnaston plant. The man, who is from Suffolk, was declared dead this morning. Police were called to the site at 12.40am and are currently working with the Health and Safety Executive on a joint investigation. The Derbyshire car maker has also confirmed the incident and sent its condolences to the family of the man who has died. A Derbyshire police spokesman said: "A man who we believe is 56 years old and not from Derbyshire or the local area has died after becoming trapped between two lorries at the Burnaston site of the car maker Toyota. "We were called to attend the incident at 12.40am and enquiries are at an early stage. "We are currently heading the joint investigation until an HSE inspector arrives at the site." A spokesman for Toyota said: "It is with great regret that I must inform you that we had a severe incident on site last night which unfortunately resulted in a lorry driver receiving serious injuries sadly resulting in his death. "We are not able to give any details but we are supporting the authorities with their enquiries. "We extend our condolences to the driver's family and friends." A spokesman for the HSE said the incident was reported to the organisation at 1.30am this morning. He said: "Our investigator is due at the scene this morning to begin her joint inquiry with the police. "We were made aware of an incident which happened at 12.38am this morning. "The deceased is a 56-year-old male from Suffolk."

Metal thieves brave barbed wire to kick hole in roof of Silly Sids

January 22, 2014, 12:58 pm

≫ Next: Alfreton Town join up with injured player John McGrath's Academy-Links coaching business

≪ Previous: 56-year-old man dies after becoming trapped between two lorries at Toyota

$

0

0

METAL thieves have broken into the former Debenhams store in Derby, cut a 6ft wide hole in the roof and stolen "thousands of pounds" of copper cable. One of the raiders pulled apart razor wire before climbing on to the roof and left a coat behind that became stuck on barbed wire. The retailing giant closed the landmark city centre building, in Victoria Street, more than three years ago and the ground floor has been occupied by Silly Sids furniture store since. Mark Harding, whose father Mick owns the famous Derby company, discovered the break-in at 2.10pm yesterday. The 38-year-old said: "I find it incredible the lengths people will go to, to steal something. "I arrived at the back of the building yesterday and saw that a door had been forced. "As I opened it I saw the lagging from the copper pipes lying on the ground so knew straight away someone had been inside to steal metal. "I looked up and one of them had forced apart some razor wire and even left a coat behind attached to the barbed wire." Mr Harding, 38, said Silly Sids, which also has a well-known store in Balaclava Road, Derby, has been in business in the city for more than 30 years. Although none of their stock was stolen, he said he has had to spend time organising the landlord of the building to come and make the necessary repairs. He said: "The hole in the roof must be six feet across and they've caused a huge amount of damage, not to mention all of the copper wire they have stolen. "They must have stolen thousands of pounds worth judging by the sheers amount of lagging that is lying around inside the building. "They've kicked holes in the roof to get through to a second room as well and steal copper from there too." Three months ago there was a change in the law so that all scrap dealers can only pay cheque or bank transfer to sellers coming to their yards. They are also required to keep a record of the vehicles that come to sell, including the registration number and contact details of the person who has sold them scrap metal. Mr Harding said: "I have told the police that they need to contact all of the scrap dealers to see if anyone has gone in over the past couple of days to try and sell them a large amount of copper." A spokesman for Derbyshire police said it is investigating the break-in. He said: "The offence was reported to us at 2.10pm yesterday and took place between 5pm on Saturday and that time. "Offenders have managed to get on to the roof of the former Debenhams building and force a large hole in the roof before stealing the metal wiring." Anyone with information should call 101.