May

An extension is to be built at a Derbyshire primary school to improve facilities for staff and visitors. 

Derbyshire County Council is to spend £40,415 to build the extension, which will contain a lobby area, headteacher`s office and a secretary`s room. 

The existing offices will then be refurbished and redesigned to create a staff room. 

Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for education, said: "The Government has provided the county council with some funding to improve the provision of staff facilities in schools. 

"We are spending that money at schools which are either the most overcrowded or, as in the case of Brailsford, have not had staff room facilities before. 

"The room will be used by 11 teachers and support staff, as well as by governors and other visitors when they are at the school. 

"Brailsford Primary School was built in the 19th century and the facilities needed for pupils and teachers then are very different to what is required today. This extension will help address some of those issues." 

The work to build the extension is due to take place in early June, while pupils are on holiday. 

The refurbishment work will be carried out shortly afterwards.

School meals are to get even tastier for pupils at a Chesterfield primary school after Derbyshire County Council agreed to build a new kitchen. 

Currently meals at Heath Primary School are brought into school from an outside catering base and then served to pupils on heated trays. 

Derbyshire County Council has now agreed to spend £104,000 building an extension to the school hall to create a kitchen area and to install a lift to improve access to the building for disabled pupils. 

Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for education, said: "The new kitchen will enable staff to cook food on the school site and then serve the meals to pupils straight away. 

"It will be a superb new facility that will improve the quality of the food and service for pupils and staff. 

"At the same time we will be able to dramatically improve disabled access to the school for existing and future pupils." 

The kitchen has been designed following consultation with staff at the school and it is hoped that work can be completed in time for the start of the new school year in September. 

Work will be carried out at the school, in Slack Lane, by Beighton Construction, on behalf of the county council. 

Horse riders, walkers and cyclists can enjoy the picturesque Derbyshire countryside with today`s official opening of a new long-distance route. The second stage of the Pennine Bridleway National Trail runs from Middleton-by-Wirksworth in Derbyshire, north through the Peak District in to Tameside and beyond. 

It has been developed by the Countryside Agency in partnership with Derbyshire County Council, the Peak District National Park Authority and Tameside, Oldham and Rochdale metropolitan borough councils. 

The 70-mile section which runs mainly through Derbyshire will eventually form part of a 350-mile trail - the first purpose-built, long-distance bridleway in the country. 

Councillor Brian Lucas, Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for environment and highways, said: "This major new route through Derbyshire means even more people can have access to some of the most picturesque villages in the county whether on foot, bicycle or horse. 

"We hope it will encourage even more visitors to Derbyshire as the trail features not only the county`s fantastic scenery but also offers excellent purpose built facilities for all." 

The trail through Derbyshire has two starting points with cyclists recommended to start at the county council-run Middleton Top Visitor Centre near Wirksworth where bike hire is available. 

Horse riders can start at Hartington Station, at the head of scenic Dove Dale, where designated areas for horse box parking, a covered shelter and an exercise area have been created. 

Walkers can start at either location. 

The route through Derbyshire is mainly off road, following the High Peak Trail along a disused railway, passing through the White Peak and on to the more challenging sections through the Dark and High Peak and around Glossop, east past Manchester to the Tame Valley, Oldham and Rochdale. 

Derbyshire County Council, which has contributed around £240,000 towards the project, is responsible for the route through the county and has appointed a project officer to manage this section of the trail. 

The authority has carried out work to bring the route up to standard including upgrading footpaths and creating new bridleway routes, signing legal agreements with landowners, clearing over-hanging trees, improving drainage, installing new gates and laying new surfaces. 

The project has also been supported by the Onyx Environmental Trust, Waste Recycling Environmental on behalf of Waste Recycling Group, the Derbyshire Aggregates Levy Grant Scheme and the Derby and Derbyshire Economic Partnership.

Pupils preparing to sit GCSE exams are to get a range of stress busting tips from Derbyshire County Council to help them cope over the coming months. 

b_line, the authority`s travel and discount card for young people, has teamed up with the council`s education service to offer advice and guidance about ways of relieving stress throughout the exam period. 

The list of 11 tips are based on advice given by previous pupils and are written in a way that young people can relate to. 

All the advice can be found by visiting the b_line website at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/b_line/exam_stress.asp (opens in a new window). 

Email and text message alerts have been sent to young people across Derbyshire to let them know about the advice page. 

Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for education, said: "The pressure on young people at exam time is greater than it has ever been. 

"It is easy for well-meaning parents or teachers to create extra pressure by saying how important GCSE exams are. 

"While that is true, it is important that young people keep the exams in perspective and don`t let everything get on top of them. 

"By following this advice young people will be able to deal with the exam period better and so enter the exam room in a calmer frame of mind, increasing their chances of doing well." 

Everyone who visits the exam advice page on the b_line website will be able to enter a competition. The winner will be able to choose either a day out at Alton Towers, a party at Frankie and Benny`s diner in Chesterfield or tickets to any gig at the Sheffield Hallam FM Arena as their prize.

Tickets are still available for Derbyshire Literature Festival which gets underway next week. But with many events during the month-long literary extravaganza selling out people are urged to book quickly to avoid disappointment. 

Derbyshire County Council is hosting the event during June which will feature quizzes, workshops, concerts and the chance to meet authors. It is the third time the authority has staged the biennial festival which aims to make it easy for people of all ages to see and take part in a range of events and activities covering all aspects of reading, writing and literature. 

More than 150 events are planned at venues across Derbyshire, including libraries, cafes and supermarkets. 

Events will include: 

• Talks by writers including Bridget Kendall, Stephen Booth, Judy Leden and David Nobbs 
• Workshops in creative writing, calligraphy and book binding <li> Rhythm and rhyme sessions for young children with Ceri Stevens or Zita Newcome 
• Professional performances in village halls and community centres, promoted by Live and Local 
• A performance of The Just William Lady, performed by Alison Neil, remembering the author of the well-loved books, Richmal Crompton 
• A cookery demonstration by TV chef and cookery writer Tessa Bramley 

The grand finale will be a concert by chamber:VIVA. 

The East of England Orchestra, at Chatsworth House on 30 June which will feature the premiere of a piece commissioned for the festival by Joe Duddell. 

Councillor Bob Janes, the county council`s cabinet member for community services, said: "There is something for everyone at this year`s festival and tickets are selling out fast so I would urge people to book quickly." 

Derbyshire Literature Festival 2004 is supported by Derbyshire County Council, Holt Jackson Book Company, Arts Council England, Read On-Write Away!, the Kitley Trust, Peak Books, Harper Collins, Granta, Penguin Books and Wilkinson`s. 

Tickets cost £3 (£2 concessions) unless otherwise stated in the events brochure and are available from all libraries. 

They are also available from the county council`s call centre, Call Derbyshire on 08 456 058 058, by fax 01629 585995, e-mail call.centre@derbyshire.gov.uk, minicom 01629 585400 or typetalk 18001 08 456 058 058. 

Call Derbyshire can accept credit card bookings only, with a 50p postage charge. 

Tickets can also be obtained through the post, by cheque only, also with a 50p postage charge. 

For more information about the festival contact Call Derbyshire on the above number or visit the county council`s website www.derbyshire.gov.uk (opens in a new window).  

Ofsted inspectors have praised the standard of education at a Derbyshire County Council support centre. 

The Creswell Support Centre in Sheffield Road takes up to 20 key stage three pupils, aged 11 to 14, who have been permanently excluded from mainstream schools. 

Inspectors from Ofsted visited the centre on two days in October last year and concluded that: "Creswell is a good and improving centre, which effectively meets the changing needs of its pupils. 

"Good leadership and management by the head of the centre and other key staff, and good teaching, result in good learning and achievement." 

The inspectors also found: 

• Achievement in maths and art is very good, while English and science lessons were good 
• The centre provides good value for money 
• Pupils` personal development is good 

Headteacher Susan Dahlin said: "We are delighted with the result of the inspection. 

"We work with young people who have been excluded from mainstream education. We seek to help them manage their behaviour so they can make the most of their potential. 

"The inspectors` comments are a fitting tribute to all the hard work and commitment shown by the centre`s staff." 

To ensure the support centre continues to improve, Ofsted inspectors have recommended that Derbyshire County Council improves: 

• Opportunities for continuing education after pupils leave the centre 
• ICT provision 
• Standards in English key stage three tests 

Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for education, said: "This is a really good report which the staff and pupils should be very proud of. It demonstrates the positive way that staff at the centre value all students. 

"We are already working with the support centre management team to build on this success by looking to implement the recommendations made by the Ofsted inspectors."

Sherwood Forest and its delights will be easier to get to this summer with a new public bus service. 

Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire County Councils have co-operated to introduce the new Sunday service F8 which will allow residents of Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire to visit the attractions of the "green heart" of Nottinghamshire. 

The service starts on Sunday 30 May and will run every Sunday and bank holiday Monday until Sunday 5 September. 

Services F8, 77 and 81A will be linked together to offer a circular route serving the attractions of Sherwood Forest taking in Creswell Crags, Clumber Park, Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre, Edwinstowe, Rufford Country Park and Sherwood Forest Farm Park. 

Three circular journeys will operate in each direction offering plenty of time to stop off and explore these attractions. 

Derbyshire County Council cabinet member for public protection and transport Councillor Walter Burrows said: "We remain committed to providing a high quality public transport network for Derbyshire residents. 

"This service will make it a lot easier for local people to visit one of the country`s top tourist attractions while hopefully going some way towards helping to reduce congestion and protect the environment." 

The Sherwood Forest day ranger ticket, allowing unlimited travel on these services, costs just £5 for an adult. Senior Citizens, students and children travel at half-fare. 

There is a special family ticket priced £9 (up to 2 adults and 3 children). 

Ask for a Sherwood Forester leaflet at Chesterfield tourist information office or at the Stagecoach enquiry office on New Beetwell Street. 

Alternatively visit www.derbysbus.net (opens in a new window) or call traveline on 0870 608 2 608

A record number of visitors attended Derbyshire Food and Drink Fair this weekend to sample some of the region`s finest produce. 

More than 18,000 people flocked to the county council`s free event on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 May - a substantial increase on last year`s 14,000 visitors. 

Two huge marquees were set up in Bolsover castle`s grounds to house more than 60 stalls and exhibitions by county producers - with an additional marquee hosting a new Crafts @ the Castle section to showcase the talents of local craftspeople. 

The annual fair was launched in 2002 to boost the region`s food and drink and tourism industries. 

And traders reported brisk business this year with many exhibitors selling out on the first day and having to re-stock their stalls for the Sunday. 

Councillor Geoff Carlile, the county council`s cabinet member for regeneration, was delighted with the number of exhibitors and visitors who supported the event. 

He said: "The success of the past two fairs has been built upon and this year`s event surpassed the high expectations and provided everyone with superb entertainment. 

"There was so much to do, see and try that the only disappointment was that the weekend passed too quickly." 

There was a host of entertainment for all the family on both days including cookery demonstrations, displays and performers. 

A competition to bake the tastiest Derbyshire Fruit Loaf from a war-time recipe was won by Matthew Rodger from Palterton and Caroline Mills from Whitwell. Each received a cookbook signed by celebrity chef James Martin, who attended both days of the fair to give cookery demonstrations and mingle with visitors. 

The winner of the children`s competition for the best-dressed gingerbread man was Caroline`s daughter, Georgia Mills (nine) who received a cookbook and apron. 

Councillor Carlile added: "This was a tremendous boost to the food and drink industry, attracting visitors from across the country and even from as far away as Germany and Canada. 

"Derbyshire food and drink producers have a lot to be proud of and this fabulous event gives them the chance to let the public share in that." 

Pupils and parents will be leaving the car at home for the school run this week (Monday 24 May-Friday 28 May) as more than 180 schools throughout Derbyshire take part in national Walk to School Week. 

Derbyshire County Council is encouraging mums, dads, children and teachers to feel the many benefits of taking to their feet for the daily trip. Not only is walking healthy exercise for children but it reduces dependency on cars for school journeys, reducing traffic congestion and so cutting down on air pollution - a cause of many asthma attacks. 

Children who walk to school also tend to arrive more alert and aware and the journey on foot is also a chance for children to develop their road safety skills. 

Thornsett Primary School near New Mills is celebrating the week with the launch of the county`s first walking bus on Wednesday 26 May. 

All parents have been invited to send their children to walk into school supervised - and so far 18 youngsters have got on board. 

The walking bus will become a weekly event - setting off every Wednesday morning at 8.30am. 

All schools taking part in the Walk to School Week get a free pack containing stickers, bookmarks, travel survey sheets, posters and diaries for children to chart their daily walk. Schools will also receive a certificate for the first year they take part going up to a premier award for the sixth year. 

Derbyshire County Council member for public protection and transport Councillor Walter Burrows said: "The health and safety of our children is a top priority for Derbyshire County Council which is why we have taken part in national Walk to School week for five years now. 

"The campaign gives children, parents and teachers the chance to not only benefit from the exercise but also see the difference less traffic makes to our roads and environment."

Business ideas can become a reality for young people in Derbyshire with county council funding for The Prince`s Trust. 

The authority has followed up £5,225 backing it gave the charity last year with a £5,356 grant for 2004/2005. 

Young people aged 18-30 - particularly those who are unemployed or on a low income - can set up their own company with support and funding from The Prince`s Trust Business Programme. 

Last year the trust, with the council`s support, was able to help 46 young people in the county with their business programmes. 

Councillor Geoff Carlile, Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for regeneration said: "The county council is very supportive of all Derbyshire business enterprises, whether they are fledgling or established. 

"We provided this vital funding because together with The Prince`s Trust we want to tap into young people`s business potential to ensure a new generation of entrepreneurs are building successful companies offering services and products in the county." 

Emma Lee (29) from Brimington, set up her children`s entertainment business Kid`s First in March this year with support, advice and a £1,900 loan from The Prince`s Trust. 

Her business offers a complete service for anyone hosting a children`s party, including face-painting, hair extensions, airbrush tattoos, balloons and tooth gems. 

Ms Lee said: "I was inspired to start the business when I saw how much my own children and their friends enjoyed having their faces painted. 

"I was surprised to discover that nobody in my area offered a professional party service so I decided to fill the gap in the market." 

As part of the support offered through The Prince`s Trust business programme Miss Lee is provided with a volunteer business mentor to help her if she has a problem or needs advice. 

Robert Kirkland, chairman of Derbyshire Prince`s Trust, said: "We are very pleased with the success of our business programme. 

"People like Emma show that given the right backing and opportunity young people can make their business dreams come true." 

To find out more about The Prince`s Trust call 0800 842 842. 

Be prepared as the Norsemen cometh to Elvaston Country Park. But don`t worry it will be more a case of making merry than marauding when the castle grounds are taken over by Vikings for the bank holiday weekend. 

The Viking Heritage Weekend on Sunday 30 May and Monday 31 May will give all the family the chance to see what life was like in the past - as well as being a good learning tool for children studying the Vikings as their history topic at school. 

The main features of the day will be an authentic Viking encampment with demonstrations of traditional Viking crafts - such as a moneyer making period coins, tablet weaving, spinning, leather working, jewellery making and cooking - and a taste of the Viking way of life. 

Both days will start at 10am, with demonstrations starting at 11am. Visitors will also be able to see archery displays and Viking skirmishes before witnessing all the warriors clash in a battle finale to the day. 

The encampment will stay open until 5pm. 

Derbyshire County Council member for community services, Councillor Bob Janes said: "This promises to be a great weekend of fun and entertainment for all the family with the added bonus of being able to learn more about what life was like in the past." 

Entry is £2 for adults, £1 for children or £5 for a family ticket of two adults and three children. 

For more information contact Elvaston Castle Country Park on 01332 571342.

Derelict former railway sidings are to be transformed by road improvements to allow improved access to industrial sites and prevent lorries using residential streets. 

Langwith Road bridge at Langwith Junction is to be demolished to make way for a new roundabout and access, which will free six hectares of landlocked industrial space for use. 

The bridge, which originally carried Langwith Road 30ft over the Great Central Railway, is more than 100 years old and severely weakened. 

It has a 7.5 tonne weight restriction which means industrial lorries have to take a lengthy diversion round the north side of Shirebrook to reach WH Davis Ltd and Arromax Ltd, both based in Langwith Road. 

Derbyshire County Council is working in partnership to make the improvements with WH Davis Ltd, the District of Bolsover, and Arromax Ltd - whose company owns the six hectares of land. 

Work will include the road being rebuilt where the bridge currently stands, the creation of a roundabout on the site with access to the industrial land, and the closure of nearby Eland Road to HGVs and lorries. Trees and shrubs will be planted to landscape the new site and adjoining road. 

Councillor Brian Lucas, cabinet member for environment and highways said: "The bridge is not designed to deal with the traffic that needs to use it so we are providing this roundabout and new access to industrial sites so residential roads are not affected. 

"The bridge dominates the landscape and towers over a number of residential properties and St Joseph`s Roman Catholic Primary School so this will also improve the attractiveness of area." 

The county council will contribute £150,000 to the project, with £249,500 provided by the Alliance Sub Regional Strategic Partnership, £85,000 from the Bolsover Local Strategic Partnership Neighbourhood Renewal Fund and £15,000 from Network Rail. 

Councillor Geoff Carlile, cabinet member for regeneration said: "This is great news for local businesses and industry as this will open up new opportunities in the area. 

"Instead of being wasteland this site can be turned into profitable units and premises to generate products and jobs to boost the economy." 

Preliminary preparations for the development will begin later this month when utility companies Transco, British Telecom, Severn Trent Water and East Midlands Electricity divert services which are currently located in the bridge. 

The bridge demolition is scheduled to take place in July and August during the school summer holidays to prevent disruption to pupils and staff at St Joseph`s Roman Catholic Primary School in Langwith Road. 

Derbyshire County Council`s environmental services department will design and supervise the works, which will be put out to competitive tender in June. It is expected that they will be completed by October. 

A website featuring historic images of Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire has reached a milestone - with more than 30,000 images available to view online. 

The Picture the Past website aims to conserve the photographic collections of Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire libraries and museums. 

Digital copies are being made of original photographs and postcards which date back over 150 years to make them more accessible to local people, historians and researchers across the world. 

The project was set up by Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire county councils, Derby and Nottingham city councils and the Derby Evening Telegraph. 

Now visitors to the site - www.picturethepast.org.uk (opens in a new window) - can view 30,170 images taken from library and museum archives and loaned from members of the public. 

Councillor Bob Janes, Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for community services, said: "This project enables people across the globe to view historic images of our region while conserving the original pictures for future generations. The website is fast becoming one of the largest collections of its kind in the country." 

While low-resolution images can be printed directly from the site, for a small cost people can order high-quality pictures. 

To celebrate Local History Month during May, people can buy these glossy photographic prints of their favourite images at half price. 

A 6" x 4" print will cost £3.50 instead of £7 and a 10" x 8" print will cost £4 instead of £8. 

For more information visit the website at www.picturethepast.org.uk (opens in a new window). 

Fresh school priorities and the appointment of an acting headteacher mean Norbriggs Primary School at Mastin Moor is focused on tackling the findings of a recent Ofsted inspection. 

Following a visit by a team of education inspectors between 1st and 4th March the school has been placed in special measures to improve the quality of education for the school’s 214 pupils. 

Immediate steps have been taken by staff and governors in consultation with Derbyshire County Council to raise standards. 

Acting headteacher Sue Eyre said: “This is already an improving school. Staff have already begun working to address the issues identified in the report and we are all committed to raising standards. 

“With the continuing support of parents and the county council I am confident that we can turn Norbriggs around to provide high quality education for our pupils.” 

In their report education inspectors called on the school to: 

• Raise pupils’ Achievements in English, maths and science throughout the school. 
• Improve the quality of teaching. 
• Improve the leadership of the school. 

Despite the criticisms the inspectors found some examples of good and very good teaching with very good provision for nursery children and pupils with learning difficulties. 

Pupils’ are well behaved and their personal development and provision for their spiritual, moral and social development is good. 

The Ofsted report acknowledges that acting headteacher Sue Eyre, who joined the school in January, is already improving standards but too little time had passed for these to have an impact before the inspection took place. 

The LEA is also providing good support to the school management in tackling identified weaknesses. 

Immediate changes have included a wider curriculum to make learning more exciting, a review of how reading is taught and measures to keep parents better informed so that they can support their children’s learning and become more involved in the school. 

Two additional teachers will also take up their posts in September. 

Councillor Alan Charles, cabinet member for education, said: “We are very confident that the school will continue to build on recent improvements which have been recognised in the inspection report. We will continue to provide a full range of support to ensure the school makes good progress in the best interests of the children.” 

Wider access to broadband technologies is to be enjoyed by businesses and homes across Derbyshire. 

BT, one of Derbyshire County Council`s partners to help improve access to broadband in the county, has announced plans to enable a further 14 telephone exchanges by summer 2005. 

Exchanges being enabled include: Ashover, Bakewell, Carsington, Dethick, Holmesfield, Hope, Hulland Ward, Kirk Langley, Parwich, Pleasley, Sudbury, Taddington, Winster, and Youlgreave. 

When work is completed broadband will have been brought to exchanges serving 99.9 per cent of the county - an increase from the current 93 per cent. 

Councillor Geoff Carlile, Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for regeneration said: "I am delighted with this good news for Derbyshire. 

"This announcement follows the launch of the Derbyshire Broadband Partnership in March to focus efforts on using alternative technologies to get broadband to the most rural areas as well as driving take up in the county. 

"Derbyshire homes can enjoy the benefits of having an Internet connection constantly available and businesses can stay competitive in the market place." 

In putting together the partnership - which is open to all operators and Internet service providers - the county council collated information about how broadband and information and communication technology (ICT) is promoted in the county. 

Members of the Derbyshire Partnership Forum, which includes the county council, borough and district councils, NHS primary care trusts and the emergency services, successfully bid for a Local Government On-Line Partnership grant of £2 million for joint projects in 2002. 

Multi-agency projects to deliver electronic services by new methods such as on-line application forms, e-payments and e-procurements have resulted from the grant. The announcement to upgrade the exchanges replaces the broadband registration trigger scheme, which had already seen 47 telephone exchanges enabled for broadband to serve about 415,000 homes and businesses across the county. 

Mick McLoughlin, BT regional director said: "Making broadband technology available is essential, and that is why the Derbyshire Broadband Partnership`s campaign is important for the county`s economy. But the message is no longer `10 times faster` and `always on`. It is how broadband changes the way we live and work." 

The rollout programme for the 14 exchanges will be announced in detail by the end of June.

Eight schools today hit the lottery jackpot after Derbyshire County Council was awarded £1.9 million to improve sports facilities. 

The money has come from the New Opportunities Fund, the UK-wide lottery scheme which supports the modernisation or creation of indoor and outdoor sports facilities for schools. In many cases Derbyshire County Council and the schools will provide additional funding to enable the sports projects to go ahead. 

Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for education, said: "This funding provides a massive boost to the quality of PE and sports facilities at schools across the county. 

"In most cases the new facilities will also be available for use by the local community outside of school hours. 

"This is a timely boost when both the Government and Derbyshire County Council are encouraging children to lead a more active and healthy lifestyle." 

The schools getting funding are:

1. Brookfield Community School, Chesterfield - £1,203,930

Funding to build a four court sports hall with an integrated classroom. It will be used for basketball, netball, volleyball, badminton, gymnastics and dance lessons. A further £639,388 is needed for the project to go ahead. Derbyshire County Council will contribute £400,000, the school £139,388 and £100,000 will come from a specialist sports college award. 

2. Wilsthorpe Community School, Long Eaton - £436,416 

Funding to build a full sized, floodlit synthetic sports pitch. It will enable the school to deliver extra hockey, football, cricket and tennis lessons. The remaining £44,053 cost will be provided from a mixture of other funding sources. 

3. Pleasley Outdoor Centre, Pleasley Vale - £131,893 

Funding to refurbish a derelict industrial unit to create new changing and toilet facilities, office and storage space and an indoor teaching area. The project will offer outdoor activities including kayaking, canoeing, climbing, mountain biking, orienteering and raft building. 

4. Thornsett Primary School, Birch Vale, High Peak - £52,580 

Funding for a portable changing room, with toilets and disabled access, on the school`s playing field, which is 20 minutes walk away from the school. It will enable the school to offer a wider range of PE and sports activities. 

5. Norbriggs Primary School, near Chesterfield - £43,175 

Funding to construct a multi-use games area and a storage container. It will enable the school to offer more netball, football and cricket lessons. 

6. Shardlow Primary School - £41,530 

Funding to construct a multi-use games area and a storage container. It will enable the school to offer more netball, tennis, football and hockey lessons. An additional £5,000 Biffaward grant will be used to provide fencing and floodlighting. 

7. Alfreton Park Community Special School - £35,030 

Funding to construct an outdoor activity trail, including a trim trail and a covered rest and observation area. The money will also be used to upgrade an existing play area and to build a sensory wall. The PE curriculum will be extended and more outdoor activities provided. An additional £1,578 of partnership funding will be added to the project. 

8. Tupton Primary School, Tupton, Chesterfield - £26,941 

Funding to construct a multi-use games area to offer more netball, tennis and football lessons. A further £4,684 will be contributed towards the project from other sources. 

Mick McGrath, New Opportunities Fund regional manager for the East Midlands, said: "Our New Opportunities for PE and Sport programme is already having a major impact in schools and communities across the East Midlands. 

"Every one of these grants, whether large or small, has a part to play in widening access to quality sports facilities, giving children, young people and communities the chance to choose a healthier lifestyle, boost their self-esteem and confidence." 

Footballers may be earning thousands of pounds this week in the run up to the Cup Final but it hasn`t always been that way according to Derbyshire Record Office. 

A new document donated to the county council-run record office provides a fascinating contrast with what professional footballers are paid today. 

Top class players earn thousands of pounds a week, but if they had been playing for Derby County in 1899 they would have received £1.10s [£1 50p] during the full season, September to April, and 10s [50p] during the close season, May to August. Their bonus for playing in the 1st Division or in English cup ties - no overseas games - was another £1 10s per week. 

The financial implications of not turning up or not obeying the trainer`s instructions were severe - £5 each time, more than three weeks wages. 

On 8 May 1899 Edgar Cook of 16 Union Street, Long Eaton, signed for Derby County and his well-thumbed original signed contract is now part of the record office`s collections where it can be consulted by sports historians. 

Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for community services Councillor Bob Janes said: "It is astonishing to compare the wages of a footballer today with the wages they earned a hundred years ago. 

"The lives of football stars are often a topic of discussion these days and these rare documents give us an insight into the footballing world of the past. 

"These interesting records are an important addition to the archives of local sports organisations available to the public at the record office." Researchers can view the age old contract along with other sports records by visiting Derbyshire Record Office in New Street, Matlock. Opening hours are Monday to Friday between 9.30am and 4.45pm.

Hopping on board has never been easier as the second edition of the County Council`s bus map hits the streets. More than 60,000 copies - showing frequency of buses and ticket information for the whole of Derbyshire - have been printed and are available free from tourist information centres, libraries, council offices, youth hostels and bus stations. 

The first edition of the map came out in January and will be updated every six months. 

As well as the usual information on places of interest in the county the May leaflet has additional information on the new Gold Card - available to residents over the age of 60 and giving subsidies on travel and discounts at shops throughout Derbyshire. 

Derbyshire County Council cabinet member for public transport, Councillor Walter Burrows said: "We recognise many local people rely on public transport to get about and that is why the County Council spends around £4m every year supporting bus services across Derbyshire. 

"This pamphlet gives all the necessary information on routes and frequencies in a clear and easy-to-understand way and is invaluable to all bus users." 

For more information on bus and rail travel - including an online journey planner, town route plans and the latest version of the bus map - go to Derbyshire County Council`s public transport website at www.derbysbus.net (opens in a new window). 

For local bus times ring traveline on 0870 608 2608 (7am until 9pm seven days a week).

An innovative drugs education pack designed by Derbyshire County Council is being introduced in all the county`s secondary schools. 

The Simply Drug Education pack will help teachers get across the anti-drugs message to 11 to 18-year-old pupils by using exciting approaches that young people of different abilities can relate to. 

Each teaching pack contains a range of visual materials that can be used on a one-to-one or group basis to help explain what different drugs look like and the dangers they can pose. 

The idea is to get across serious messages by using different approaches that will help young people to identify issues surrounding legal drugs, such as alcohol and tobacco, and illegal drugs, such as cannabis and heroin. 

The pack contains activities including: 

• Photographs to help identify all drugs and drug related objects 
• A scenarios card game to help young people explore decision making in drug-related situations 
• Pictures to raise knowledge and awareness of the effects of drugs on body organs 

The Simply Drug Education teaching pack has been created by Derbyshire County Council`s education service in partnership with teachers from Derbyshire schools and is designed for use in Personal and Social Health Education (PSHE) classes. 

Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for education, said: "The aim of this pack is to give all young people a greater knowledge and understanding of drugs issues using materials and approaches appropriate to their ability. 

"Because of its innovative approach we are getting interest in this teaching pack from other councils across the country because such materials have not been widely accessible in the past. 

"Each school will receive the packs because Derbyshire County Council is committed to providing all children with good drugs education based on materials appropriate to their needs." 

After completing the Simply Drug Education course young people will continue to receive drugs education information and advice from a variety of different organisations. 

Getting the full picture...Creswell Support Centre pupils Gavin Maude, 13 and Matt Turner, 14, show Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for education, the areas of the body that drugs can affect using the Simply Drug Education pack that has been sent to all secondary schools.

More than 400 new jobs are set to be created at a new supermarket which will be built as part of a project to transform a former colliery spoil tip. 

Derbyshire County Council has welcomed the new jobs with councillors saying the new positions will be a real boost to the town. 

The £20 million spoil tip project will transform an area of Clay Cross and supermarket chain Tesco has signed up to the 17 acre development in the centre of the town, between Market Street and Bridge Street. As well as the supermarket, shops, pubs, restaurants, housing and a doctors` surgery are also planned for the site. 

The scheme involves the reclamation of colliery spoil tips next to the town centre, and the county council is building a new road link to service the development which will ease traffic congestion in the town. 

The county council began to improve the road links and public transport this time last year, overseeing a project to replace Coney Green Bridge and improve bus facilities in the area. 

The cost for the new road link is being met by the developers although the county council is carrying out the work. 

The East Midlands Development Agency (emda), along with English Partnerships have contributed £9.3 million towards the project and work on clearing the site and preparing it for building work will start in the next 18 months. 

Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for regeneration Councillor Geoff Carlile said: "This is an extremely important regeneration project and, with the announcement of the new jobs, it seems it is already paying dividends. 

"It has been a long time coming but will revitalise the local area and economy and we are right behind the whole development." 

County council cabinet member for environment and highways Councillor Brian Lucas said: "The improvements made to the road links and public transport facilities play a very important part in the general regeneration of Clay Cross. We are confident any short-term disruption caused by the work will have many long-term benefits for the town." 

More than 100 Derbyshire businesses have been helped in the past year by an industry support group which champions engineering. 

The Engineering Forum, with support from Derbyshire County Council, has helped companies in the county secure £57,250 in cash grants from the European Development Fund to invest in new technology. 

Businesses have also had access to qualified and experienced assistance and monthly forum meetings to promote networking and raise awareness on issues including health and safety, marketing, and research funding opportunities. 

Based at Mansfield`s Oakham Business Park in Hamilton Way, the forum represents 289 engineering companies in the East Midlands - 104 of which are Derbyshire businesses. 

Councillor Geoff Carlile, Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for regeneration said: "It is good to know that the council and forum have been instrumental in helping these businesses. "Derbyshire is famous for its association with Rolls Royce and Sir Frank Whittle so the county has a long and proud record of engineering excellence. 

"We want to continue that by investing in the future and supporting companies across the county." 

The forum, launched as a non-profit industry advisor for member companies in 1996, was awarded £10,000 a year for three years by the county council in 2001. 

It also receives backing from Business Link Derbyshire, East Midlands Development Agency and the Department of Trade and Industry. 

Fred Mead, chief executive of the Engineering Forum, said: "I am pleased that we have helped attract a total of £504,000 of European Development Funding to businesses in the East Midlands Region in the past financial year. 

"We know it is important in today`s global marketplace that innovative methods and solutions are implemented and by helping companies make these advancements we are providing the support that is needed. 

"Close working relationships are being forged with research institutions, large companies and universities and we are linking entrepreneurs with development initiatives of the Engineering Forum and the county council to produce innovative products and services." 

To find out more about The Engineering Forum contact the group on 0845 130 8666.

An employment service helping people with disabilities or mental health problems find work has notched up another success. 

The High Peak Supported Employment Service, which is part of Derbyshire County Council`s social services, helps to find people paid employment and since it was set up in January 1998 it has placed more than 50 people. 

Adam Race (19) of Chelmorten has just started working at the Whitehall Activities Centre near Whaley Bridge as part of the cleaning team and has nothing but praise for the supported employment service. Adam, who has Down`s Syndrome, signed up to the supported employment service in September 2002 and worked in two placements before finding his permanent job at Whitehall. 

He started at Whitehall in June last year on work experience and, with support from the employment service, soon built up his skills to get a permanent job. Adam now works for 21 hours a week carrying out duties ranging from vacuuming and dusting to mopping and sweeping. 

The supported employment service, which covers the High Peak and North Dales area of Derbyshire, has a contract with Jobcentreplus and is funded in part by money from the European Social Fund. 

The service, which has bases in Chapel-en-le-Frith and Matlock, is individually tailored to meet the employment needs of the person and the prospective employer, matching a person`s skills to the right job. When this is done, the employment service provides whatever support is necessary to help the person to learn the job and stay in it, helping them to become a fully integrated member of the workforce. 

Adam said: "I really like my job and I love working at Whitehall. 

"The work is very good and I enjoy doing a good job. I also really enjoy talking to the people who work with me. They are all very helpful and have been very friendly to me." 

Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for social care and health Councillor Anne Western said: "The supported employment service is an invaluable resource and now has more than 50 success stories under its belt. 

"For Adam and dozens like him the service gives them a real chance to find paid employment in the community. 

"The service makes a point of matching people up with prospective employers so the placements are more likely to succeed and it is certainly paying off." 

Adult Learners` Week, 15-21 May 2004, is the time to celebrate some of the hundreds of people whose passion for learning has seen them blossom with new confidence and skills. 

During Adult Learners` Week, winners in the East Midlands will be presented with awards at a ceremony on Weds 19th May at the Council Chamber, Council House, Derby. Winners will be recognised for their dedication to learning - learning which reaps benefits not only for themselves, but for their families and the wider community. 

Derbyshire will be represented at the Awards Ceremony by Raj Kumar Bali, 69, from Derby, who was nominated by Derby College. 

Raj has improved his spoken English and his teambuilding, leadership and presentation skills, which have helped him in his voluntary work for the community. Raj has boosted his confidence and is now able to communicate at all levels, including with MPs such as Margaret Beckett. Raj has been invited to the House of Commons and the House of Lords. 

Five other Individual Awards will be presented to winners from other East Midlands locations. The Derbyshire Learning Partnership, on behalf of NIACE, will host the Regional Awards Ceremony. 

Councillor Alan Charles, Cabinet Member for Education at Derbyshire County Council, who is the Chair of the Derbyshire Learning Partnership, will present the Awards. 

Talking about the winners achievements, Cllr Charles said, "The people recognised by the Adult Learners Week awards show what can be achieved when you put your mind to learning something new. 

"New skills can help you gain self-esteem and confidence - and many people find themselves new friends into the bargain." 

Visitor numbers are up and donations are healthy at Buxton Museum and Art Gallery. 

From October last year until March this year 9,425 people visited the museum - that`s up 750 on the same six-month period last year. And the total number of visitors for the whole of 2003/04 is up 4,174 on the previous 12 months at 27,898. 

In fact since 2000/01 the annual total has increased by almost 11,000. The good news continues as more visitors has seen the museum increase its donations to more than £1,000 for the year. 

And the quality and variety of goods in the museum shop continues to entice visitors with sales up by more than £1,000 on last year`s figure. 

It is easy to see why so many people are keen to step through the doors when you look at what is on offer. As well as the usual facilities for groups of children on study trips the museum has also had a myriad of interesting exhibitions and works this year. 

Additions to the collections have included two portraits by Derbyshire artist Stephen Ashurst, a collection of flints by Leonard Waterhouse, a trophy cup presented to the first inspector of Derbyshire Constabulary on his retirement in 1882 and a collection of Womens Voluntary Services uniforms from World War Two. 

The museum has also bought two pictures - a print by Trevor Hodgkisson of the Buxton Opera House and a mixed media art work entitled Forest by Nathan Birchenough from Buxton who was one of the top five pupils in A Level art in the country last year. 

Exhibitions were dominated by Getting to Grips with Objects - work by children from four Buxton schools using objects from around the world and a photographic exhibition by Kate Bellis entitled This Place and showing Peak District activities such as quarrying, keeping small holdings and chicken racing! 

The museum`s own exhibitions have proved as popular as those from outside contributors. In particular Tracks and Trails which was liked so much by visitors its run was extended. 

Derbyshire County Council member for community services, Councillor Bob Janes said: "We have had some excellent work running at the Buxton museum and this is reflected in the number of people now visiting. 

"Interest in history and art is clearly alive and well in Derbyshire and the County Council continues to support these interesting and lively exhibitions." 

Art treasures dating back over the last century and featuring scenes from all over the world are being revealed at Buxton Museum and Art Gallery on Saturday 15 May. 

The exhibition called Going Away This Year? is a selection of pictures from the museum`s historical art collection which have a holiday theme. From Paris to Rome, from Japan to South Africa, the exhibition features foreign views in a variety of art media. 

The pictures have been chosen from a fine art collection of over 800 paintings and prints which have either been purchased or kindly donated to the museum over the last 100 years. Featured artists include Sir Frank Brangwyn, Edgar Chahine and Pol Mathieu. 

The exhibition coincides with Museums & Galleries Month which is celebrated during May and for this year is based on the theme, Travelling and the Art of Travelling. 

Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for community services Councillor Bob Janes said: "I am sure this will be a fascinating exhibition with something to interest everyone from art experts to people who simply enjoy travel. 

"The museum has such a vast array of rare artwork after collecting images for over a century. 

"I hope that people will make the most of this rare opportunity to see some of the museum`s hidden treasures." 

People can see the exhibition at the Derbyshire County Council-run museum on Terrace Road until 3 July. 

Visitors to the museum can also see Dado III, a vivid exhibition of cartoon art by John Rattigan which is on show until 3 July. 

Entry to all exhibitions at Buxton Museum & Art Gallery is free as part of Derbyshire County Council`s commitment to increase public access to the arts. 

Information about all the exhibitions is available by ringing Ros Westwood or Sue Palmer at the museum and art gallery on 01298 24658.

It`s that time of year again when Oscar-esque fever hits Derbyshire`s `green community.` 

On Thursday May 27 Derbyshire County Council will present its 15th Greenwatch Awards - given to individuals, community groups, schools or businesses who have worked tirelessly to improve Derbyshire`s environment. 

And this year - for the first time - every project entered that meets the minimum criteria for the awards will receive recognition - including an invite to the glittering awards ceremony at County Hall, Matlock. 

Since the awards were launched in 1990 more than 500 schemes have collected £140,000 in prize money. This year sees more than 50 finalists in the five categories (see attached) and six sponsor prizes. Winners in each of the main categories will receive £1,000, runners-up £500 with special certificates going to those with commendations. 

All kinds of projects can be entered - as long as they demonstrate they have improved the local environment in some way. Last year`s winners ranged from a school`s vegetable garden to a checklist of every wild plant species in the county. 

The five main categories are wildlife conservation, sustainable use of resources, farming and landscape, built environment and Derbyshire heritage. There are also sponsor prizes from Tarmac Central Ltd - for the best project showing involvement of the local community; the Environment Agency - three awards going to the best primary and secondary school projects and the best project for sustainability and the Waste Recycling Group - awarded to the best project for reducing, reusing or recycling waste materials. 

Special prizes on the night will also come from Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust - for outstanding achievement in built conservation; the Derby Evening Telegraph - awarded to the best project by a local business and English Nature - for outstanding contribution to biodiversity in Derbyshire. 

Speaking about this year`s Greenwatch Awards Derbyshire County Council cabinet member for environment and highways Councillor Brian Lucas said: "As always there have been many entries and all of the highest standard - showing once again how much the people of Derbyshire care about the environment in which they live. 

"As each year goes by these awards produce more and more projects which save energy and resources, prevent pollution, care for historic buildings, sites and wildlife and protect Derbyshire`s heritage."

Book fans in Derbyshire are getting the chance to meet an internationally known author as part of the countdown to the Orange Prize book award. 

One of the six short listed writers, Gillian Slovo, is visiting Derbyshire County Council-run library in Buxton on Wednesday 26 May between 7.30pm and 9pm to talk about her nominated book - Ice Road. 

The Orange Prize for Fiction is the UK`s only annual book award for fiction written by women. At the event Gillian will also sign copies of her short listed novel, which could go on to win the coveted prize next month. 

Ice Road is Gillian`s tenth novel and has received national acclaim from the media, being described as `a beautifully composed, expertly structured and wonderfully evocative masterpiece.` 

Born in South Africa, Gillian and her family were exiled to Britain in 1964. She has lived in London ever since. Her previous work includes the international bestseller Every Secret Thing: My Family, My Country. 

Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for community services Councillor Bob Janes said: "We are delighted to welcome such a well known author to one of our libraries. 

"I`m sure that there will be great interest in Gillain`s book, Ice Road, especially now that it is one of the short listed books and could very possibly win the prize. 

"Meeting a famous author and getting the book signed will be a treat for our readers." 

People who are interested in attending Gillian`s talk at Buxton Library in Kents Bank Road, Buxton can buy tickets for £3 with £2 concessions by ringing the library on 01298 25331.

Youngsters will soon be able to take to the water again after Derbyshire County Council decided to splash out £70,000 to refurbish a swimming pool. 

Sixteen primary schools in the Chesterfield area took pupils to Manor College building in Ashgate Road that is part of the former North East Derbyshire College site. But in November last year the swimming pool had to be closed after it was found that maintenance and refurbishment work was needed. 

While the pool has been closed schools have had to take pupils to either the Queen`s Park Sports Centre or Brookfield Community School. 

Teachers from the schools have asked for the Manor College swimming pool to be re-opened to make it easier to provide lessons for pupils. As a result Derbyshire County Council has decided to spend £70,000 to pay for a new boiler, replacement valves, pumps, pressure gauges and filters for the pool. 

Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for education, said: "Learning to swim is an important skill for all children to learn and one that will be of benefit to them throughout their lives. 

"Schools also have to provide swimming lessons for primary pupils to help meet the requirements of the National Curriculum. 

"By refurbishing the swimming pool at Manor College we are able to reduce the travelling that pupils have to make before they can have their lesson." 

Work is expected to last for three months and should be completed in time for pupils to use the pool again from the start of the new school year in September.

A new craft section is to feature for the first time at the county council`s premiere culinary event. 

Derbyshire Food and Drink Fair at Bolsover Castle May 22 and 23 will include Crafts @ the Castle, which will showcase the talents of outstanding crafts people. 

The new feature will join old favourites at the third annual fair where there will be more than 60 food and drink stalls and exhibitions by local caterers, shops and producers. 

More than 14,000 visitors are expected to attend to enjoy the atmosphere and see demonstrations by celebrity chef James Martin. 

Councillor Bob Janes Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for community services said: "I`m very pleased that this new crafts section will be at the Derbyshire Food and Drink Fair so members of the public from near and far can see a new creative side of the county. 

"There is always something fresh and new to see, taste or try at the fair and this year looks set to be even bigger and better than before - for both visitors and producers." 

The craft section will include demonstrations and stall by exhibitors including: 

• May Ling Beadsmoore ceramics - many of the pots are made with food presentation in mind. The range, created in Darley Abbey, includes cheese platters, seafood `boats`, mugs, beakers and flower vases to add visual appeal to table settings. 
• Alistair Hayhurst bodging and hurdlemaking - Alistair established Underwood Crafts in 2000 and specialises in traditional woodland and coppice products at his Wirksworth base. Using a portable lathe powered traditionally by treadle and spring, he turns a variety of wooden items, from chair legs to sports bats. 
• Nicholas Hobbs furniture - Nicholas has been designing and making furniture for more than 25 years. His commissioned furniture is designed and made to client specification and delivered nationwide from his workshop in Wirksworth. 
• Andy Mason ceramics - decorative and functional ceramics are created in his Darley Abbey workplace, which are inspired by the natural world. Several glaze applications, using spraying and masking techniques and multi firings create lustrous, slightly diffused effects. 
• Wendy Johnson ceramics - hand-built ceramics of a decorative nature inspired by many sources including architecture, wildlife and floral imagery. The range, created in Wirksworth, includes clocks, candlesticks, cheese domes, butter-dishes, various bowls and lidded animal boxes. 
• Mike Swain creative woodturning - the Chesterfield-based creative woodturner works mainly in native home grown timbers, preferring the whiter timbers of sycamore and ash. He applies colour washes, spirit dyes, gold leaf and resin inlays to completed pieces. Other effects include texturing, sandblasting and scorched finishes. 
• Erica Just plant paper collages - using a variety of plant fibres including teasels, nettles, and banana skins the collages vary in colour and texture from season to season. The arrangement of plant papers is combined with natural forms such as feathers, shells, and leaves by the Nottingham-based craftswoman. 
• Sue Lancaster textiles - embroidered articles such as bags, hats and book covers are made for sale at her Sheffield workshop, in addition to individual pieces and panels made for exhibition and commission. Themes include gardens, architecture and seashore. 
• Sue Lowday leather - originally trained as a silversmith and jeweller, Sue began working with leather fifteen years ago. She experiments at her Sheffield base to discover ways of producing more complex forms and textures using hide alongside contrasting materials such as soft pigskin and elements of metal. 
• Hazel Atkinson jewellery - costume jewellery earrings, brooches, necklaces and bracelets produced in copper, brass, aluminium, silver and titanium, using a variety of materials and techniques at her Nottingham workplace. 
• Tessa Wolfe Murray ceramics - Tessa developed a decorative smoke firing technique designed for vases to hold water in 1988. Prior to this technique no smoke-fired pot could be functional. Her range, produced at Brighton & Hove, includes sculptural vases, dishes, candlesticks, clocks, ceramic jewellery and buttons. 
• Alison Ellen knitwear - natural yarns are dyed using space and tie-dying techniques at her Surrey workplace to achieve a range of subtle patterns and colours. Among the items produced are jumpers, jackets, waistcoats, hats, scarves and cushions. 

Admission to the fair is free and the event is open from 10am to 5pm on both days. 

A new café being set up to support people with Alzheimer`s and their carers has been welcomed by social services. 

The new café will be open in Chesterfield on a set Friday each month and is being run by the Chesterfield and North Eastern Derbyshire branch of the Alzheimer`s Society. 

The café will provide a meeting place for people with dementia, their carers and families as well as people working in the field of dementia and any other interested parties. 

The new venture is being backed by Derbyshire County Council`s social services which will be sending along staff to the café to support Alzheimer`s Society workers and volunteers and give people advice and information about services that are available in the area. 

While at the café people will be able to get information about medical and social aspects of dementia and there will be an emphasis on the importance of speaking openly about problems which may be encountered because of the illness. 

The café will be held at the Peter Webster Centre in Sheffield Road, Chesterfield between 10.30am and 1pm on the following Fridays: 28 May, 25 June, 23 July, 24 September, 22 October, 26 November and 17 December. 

Free transport can be arranged for people to get to the cafe if people ring in advance. 

Social services has also welcomed the setting up of a Carer Support Group by the same branch of the Alzheimer`s Society. 

The group meets on the third Thursday of every month between 10am and noon at the Central Methodist Room in Saltergate, Chesterfield (behind the Cornerstone Café). 

As well as speakers and information there will also be a chance for a discussion around relevant topics. 

Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for social care and health Councillor Anne Western said: "Both these initiatives by the Alzheimer`s Society are warmly welcomed by the county council and I know they will be extremely useful for people living in the area who have the illness and their carers too. 

"Social services works closely with several voluntary organisations in the community, including the Alzheimer`s Society, as many of our service users are known to them too. We are happy to support initiatives like this as many of our service users will gain enormous benefit from attending groups and sessions like these." 

For more information about the Alzheimer`s Society Café in Chesterfield call Sally on 01246 222216 or Linda on 01246 274699.

People with disabilities now have a variety of new projects to get involved in ranging from the arts to courses designed to promote independence. 

Derbyshire County Council`s social services, in partnership with disability charity Leonard Cheshire, proposed at the end of last year to introduce a wider range of community-based services for people with disabilities. 

The aim of the expansion was to involve people referred to Leonard Cheshire day services by social services, and those living in more rural areas who found it difficult to access projects across the county. 

The new projects supplement the services currently provided by Leonard Cheshire from three day centres - Cressy Fields in Alfreton, (Amber Valley) Granville Resource Centre in Long Eaton (South East Derbyshire) and West Street Resource Centre in Chesterfield (North East Derbyshire). 

The new courses and projects, run in partnership with local charities and organisations, are being held in the community to make them more accessible to people who live too far to be able to attend one of the three day centres on a regular basis, if at all. 

The changes were proposed following a review of the way services are delivered across Derbyshire and by consulting with people in the county who have physical disabilities or a sensory impairment. 

The review of day services, carried out last year, showed that while people using them were generally satisfied, many people were unable to access them because of their location and others felt they wanted more flexible services that were tailored to their individual needs and delivered at a local level. 

Projects are springing up across the county and being welcomed by county council service users. 

A project covering south Derbyshire, Derbyshire Dales and High Peak, called Art Trek has been set up by Leonard Cheshire Western Derbyshire Project in partnership with People Express, a community arts organisation for south Derbyshire. 

The activities, aimed at disabled people, range from traditional art such as pottery, sculpture and creative writing to working with digital arts, music and sound. 

The partnership initially set up for two months but following its success it will now run for longer. 

A health living group has also been set up, catering for people with disabilities living in the same area. 

The group, based at the Rosliston Forestry Centre near Swadlincote, meets between 10am and 1pm every Wednesday and will run for the next seven weeks. 

Leonard Cheshire is also working with Spectrum, a group based in the High Peak which aims to provide access to a range of arts-based activities for people with physical and, or sensory impairments. 

The current project involves wood carvings for public display at Whaley Bridge train station and is being delivered in partnership with the Hope Valley and High Peak Transport Partnership. 

People with disabilities living in Amber Valley have welcomed the opportunity to join a dance group called `We Can Dance`, which was originally formed at Cressy Field Resource Centre but has now moved to become an independent group. The group meets at Shirland Village Hall, Shirland Village between 1.30pm and 3.30pm each Friday. 

North east Derbyshire doesn`t miss out either, and a new course for disabled people designed to promote independence and choice, especially for young people, has been set up. 

The `Personal Development Course` has proved so successful in the Chesterfield area that Leonard Cheshire staff in Derbyshire are to receive information and training to implement the course in other areas. 

Contact numbers for more information are listed below: 

• Leonard Cheshire Western Derbyshire Project - Carole Martin - 07956 095231 
• People Express development director - Julie Batten - 01283 552962 
• Spectrum - Leonard Cheshire - Leigh Selway - 01773 823181 
• Amber Valley - Cressy Fields Resource Centre - David Spray or Sue Hughes - 01773 830909 
• Amber Valley Community Services - Steve Smith 07867 897542 
• NE Derbyshire - Personal Development Course - Linda Hallows - 01246 278375. 

Leonard Cheshire service manager for south east Derbyshire Steve Smith said: "When the review was carried out last year it was clear that people wanted to see more variety in the services that were on offer, and also more accessibility. 

"We believe that the expanding services, which do not revolve around the day centres, are providing people with a wider choice of excellent activities they can really feel part of." Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for social care and health Councillor Anne Western said: "The review of day services underpinned our commitment to provide services which fully reflect the needs and aspirations of disabled people. 

"By working in partnership with other organisations we are now more able to meet these needs and have had some very good feedback."

Adults with learning disabilities and their carers will be able to find out more about services available to them in the High Peak at an information day next month. 

The Service Information Day has been organised by Derbyshire County Council`s social services in the High Peak and is being held on Wednesday 23 June between 1.30pm and 8.30pm. 

The event, at the Alderbrook Day Centre in Buxton Road, Chinley, is open to anyone with an interest in services available to people with learning disabilities living in the High Peak area. 

Various exhibitors will be available at the event to provide information and answer questions on what services are available and there will be displays by High Peak Day Services (social services), High Peak Parent Support Group, High Peak Supported Employment, the High Peak Community Team (health options), High Peak Borough Council (sports, leisure and recreation options) and High Peak College / University of Derby (further education). 

There will also be experts on hand to provide information about supported housing options, respite facilities, community education and care management. 

Existing service users, parents, carers and potential new service users and their carers, are all welcome to visit the event. 

Refreshments will be available throughout the day and there will be social services staff available to talk about service users` needs. 

County council cabinet member for social care and health Councillor Anne Western said: "A wealth of information will be available at the event and it should be invaluable for anyone who is a parent or carer of an adult with learning disabilities. 

"There will be people on hand to answer a wide variety of queries who will also be able to let people know what services and facilities are available to them across the High Peak."

Safety proves top priority once again as Derbyshire County Council continues its spot checks on contracted public vehicles. 

In the first example of working together council enforcement officers teamed up with inspectors from the Department of Transport to give nine buses carrying children to Tupton Hall School a thorough safety check. 

The inspection - part of the county council`s rolling programme of unannounced checks on taxis, buses and all other vehicles contracted to carry members of the public - made engineering checks on the brakes, lights, steering and oil. As well as looking at the fire extinguisher, seating and checking the bus was licensed and insured. 

Vehicles are basically inspected for anything which would mean it failing an MOT test and drivers are checked to see they are properly qualified. 

The Tupton buses passed with flying colours but some vehicles are not so lucky. In cases where a suspension notice - marked with a failure of a serious nature - is served the council terminates its contract with the company immediately. 

If the notice is not marked up as serious then the operator will receive a written warning from the county council. If three written warnings are issued on the same company in a year then the contract with the council is terminated straight away. 

Having the DoT on board is an even bigger bonus as their inspectors can take any vehicle they see as a danger off the road straight away. 

Derbyshire County Council cabinet member for public protection and transport, Councillor Walter Burrows said: "These on-the-spot checks are all about making public transport safer which is always a top priority with the county council. 

"And by working with the Department of Transport - who have the power to take vehicles not up to scratch off the road immediately - we can make doubly sure anyone transporting members of the public on behalf of the council is doing so safely."

Bikers are being urged to remember `the throttle works both ways` with a set of heat sensitive mugs. 

The message - from British Superbike Champion John Reynolds - is revealed every time motorcyclists stop to have a brew out of the special mugs being launched at Matlock Motorcycle Centre as part of the on-going Think Bike and To Die For...? motorcycle safety campaign. 

The campaign, run by Derbyshire County Council and the Shiny Side Up Partnership, is also asking drivers to be alert and watch out for bikes on the road with rear window stickers carrying the Think Bike logo and message. 

John Reynolds has given his support to the campaign by also fronting a video - called Fatal Attraction - aimed at sports bikers and showing racing insights and riding skills. 

The family of James Andrews - a Derbyshire biker who died in an accident with a car in September 2002 (see attached case study) - are supporting the campaign and will be at the launch of the mugs and stickers on Sunday 16 May. 

Derbyshire County Council cabinet member for public protection and transport Councillor Walter Burrows said: "The county`s country roads always attract many bikers during the summer months and this sadly results in a significant number of accidents. 

"We are committed to reducing such tragedies and hope through campaigns like Think Bike and To Die For? - which encourage both bikers and drivers to think about their own and others safety - we can do just that." 

For more information visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk/thinkbike (opens in a new window). 

Cooks from across the county are invited to rise to a culinary challenge in two new contests staged at the Derbyshire Food and Drink Fair this month. 

Children and adults will take part in two free competitions to test their cooking and decorating talents at the Bolsover Castle event on May 22 and 23. 

Adults can show off their skills in the kitchen by following a war-time recipe for the Derbyshire fruit loaf and children are asked to create the best-dressed gingerbread man or woman in the county. The gingerbread person can be homemade or shop bought but all decoration must be done by the entrant. 

Entries for both challenges should be brought to the fair and submitted to the competition area by 4pm on each of the two days. Competitors can collect their entries after judging has taken place. 

Councillor Geoff Carlile, Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for regeneration said: "We`re hoping that these competitions bring out the best in children and adults. 

"Because Derbyshire fruit loaf is a war-time recipe it has simple ingredients - which can all be bought from producers and retailers in the county. 

"Children can get creative and make their gingerbread man or woman even more appetising while learning that cooking and decorating food is fun. 

"The competitions are just one of the many attractions at the fair, which will boost the local food and drink industry and encourage people to enjoy Derbyshire`s produce." 

Every child entering the decorating competition will receive a money-box prize and the overall winner for each day will receive an apron and cookbook. 

The winner for each day of the adult competition will be given a cookbook signed by celebrity chef James Martin, who will be giving cookery demonstrations on both days of the fair. 

Prizes will be posted out if the winner is unable to stay for the whole day. 

It is expected that in excess of 14,000 visitors will attend the fair, which will be officially opened by Councillor Charles Cutting, chair of Derbyshire County Council, at 11am on the Saturday. 

Two huge marquees will house more than 60 stalls and exhibitions by local caterers, shops and producers. Admission is free and the event will be open between 10am and 5pm on both days. 

DERBYSHIRE FRUIT LOAF (ADULT COMPETITION) 

Recipe: 

• 1 large cup (or small mug) mixed dried fruit 
• 1 large cup granulated sugar 
• 1 large cup water 
• 4ozs margarine 

Place all the above ingredients in a large pan. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for three minutes. Remove from heat and then add: 

• 2 large cups self-raising flour 
• 1 teaspoon mixed spice 
• 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate soda 
• small pinch salt 

Stir well then place in a greased 2lb loaf tin. Bake at 160ºC, 325ºF or gas mark 3 for 11/2 hours, covering the top with foil after 20 minutes to prevent burning. Turn out when cold. 

Entries for the food and drink fair competition should be presented whole - although traditionally this loaf is delicious when sliced and buttered. 

Keen to have your views heard? Want to make a difference to your life and your community? Aged over 50 with a couple of hours to spare? 

Then the next forum meeting of the Chesterfield 50+ `Inspired` Group is the place to be on Thursday 20 May. 

The group, which is backed by Derbyshire County Council, is meeting at the Saint`s Parish Centre, 3 St Mary`s Gate, Chesterfield, between 10am and noon, and everyone aged over 50 years is invited along. Refreshments will be provided free of charge. 

Public transport and public toilet facilities in Chesterfield are on the agenda and there will be a chance to put questions to Viv MacDonald, head of policy for Chesterfield Borough Council, following a presentation. 

Skills sharing will also be on the agenda, followed by a group discussion focussing on the way forward for the group. 

Those attending will be asked about the issues they would like to see taken up by the group on behalf of older people and what goals and targets it should aim to achieve. 

Around 60 people attended the last meeting and a committee of 10 people has now been set up. The group gives older people the opportunity to exchange ideas with each other and with decision-making organisations including councils and primary care trusts. 

It is linked to the national `Better Government for Older People` programme - a national initiative launched in 1998 to give older people a voice to improve public services. 

Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for social care and health Councillor Anne Western said: "The Inspired Group is really going from strength to strength and has been received very well in the Chesterfield area. 

"It is an excellent way for older people to get their views across and a good platform for them to be able to raise issues that affect them. 

"Everyone aged over 50 is welcome to attend the meeting and I hope people go along, get involved and support the group."

"Quids In" - the county council`s welfare rights campaign got off to a flying start with more than £180,000 in unclaimed benefits secured for local people for the coming year. 

And when 200 more forms are processed the figure could top £400,000. 

Almost 3,000 callers have contacted the council since the campaign was launched last month - generating 444 claims ranging from £10 a week in unclaimed pension credit to £58 a week in unclaimed attendance allowance. 

The 1605 benefit assessment questionnaires posted to residents has also revealed council tax savings for 130 local people totalling more than £36,000 a year - with more savings expected over the coming weeks. 

Council tax benefit in particular has proved an area where many people have been missing out through not realising what they are entitled to. 

For example, some people could be classed as living alone - and so eligible for a 25 per cent discount on their council tax bill - without even knowing it, as students, carers or severely disabled people are not counted for council tax. 

Also if you or another person who has disabilities lives in your home your council tax band can be lowered and even if you are working you could still qualify for benefit. 

Council Leader John Williams said: "This is one of the best ways of improving life for local people - putting more cash in their pockets. 

"The response to "Quids In" has been excellent and has highlighted just how many people are missing out on important financial help. 

"That`s why we`re stepping up our campaign by targeting 50 of the county`s most deprived areas over the next 12 months." 

If you think you or someone you know might be missing out on claiming benefits phone our special hotline to get a free assessment on 0845 120 2985. All calls are confidential and you just might find that you too could be quids in...

Everyone knows big birds love a bit of water. But when they are congregating on the flight path of the East Midlands airport - like some round the county`s disused sand and gravel workings - it can become a problem for the birds and the planes. 

Now Derbyshire County and Derby City Councils are doing something about it and hopefully errant birds flying into aeroplane engines could soon be avoided. 

The County and Derby City Council have drafted guidelines on how best to use land where sand and gravel extraction used to take place. Concerns were raised during the drawing up of the minerals plan which identifies sites for working sand and gravel in the Trent, Derwent and Dove valleys. 

In the past sites with no more sand and gravel to extract have been filled in and restored to agricultural use but less material suitable for filling and stricter requirements about restoring sites on floodplains have meant more and more have been going back to water. And with the water has come birds and - more seriously - `birdstrike`. 

The supplementary planning guidance on the after use of sand and gravel sites will be open to public comment for a seven-week period from 7 May 2004. 

The document sets out where it is a priority to restore sites for land after the gravel has run out and where it would be better to reclaim them for water uses. 

Councillor Brian Lucas, County Council member for environment and highways, said: "The question of what to do with former sand and gravel workings has become a real issue as inert landfill materials are in short supply. 

"It is hoped this document - which gives local people a chance to have their say - will provide solutions that are practical, environmentally sound and satisfy everyone." 

Mike Kaye, assistant director of development at the City Council, said: "We believe the draft guidance strikes the right balance between the interests of reclamation after working and future aircraft safety, but welcome the views of everyone with an interest in the matter." 

Copies of the document can be bought for £10 by contacting Tracey Frost at Derbyshire County Council on 01629 585970 or viewed online at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/enviro/envindex.htm (opens in a new window). 

It is also available to view at the County or City planning offices. Comments must be received by Friday 25 June.

More than 50 events are being held across the county by Derbyshire County Council`s adult community education service to mark the UK`s biggest festival of learning. 

Cartoon drawing, poetry, café cookery and silver surfer Internet sessions for older learners are just a handful of the wide range of taster sessions taking place in adult education centres throughout the county during Adult Learners` Week. 

The packed programme of taster sessions and events is being run at the county council`s adult community education centres to mark the week-long celebrations from 15 to 22 May. 

There is something for everyone and anybody who wants to sample any one of the hundreds of courses on offer is invited to have a go. (see Notes to News Editors for a full list of events). 

A number of presentation evenings are also planned around the county to reward students who have done well. 

Adult Learners` Week celebrates and promotes all forms of adult learning and is co-ordinated by NIACE, the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education. 

The annual event follows a recent inspection by the Adult Learning Inspectorate which found that the council`s adult education classes are among the best in the country when compared with those found in other authorities inspected so far. 

Now the service plans to build on its success by encouraging even more people to sign-up for learning. 

Councillor Bob Janes, the county council`s cabinet member for community services, said: "As our wide range of courses show, adult education doesn`t have to involve classrooms, assignments or exams. It can be a lot of fun. 

"Derbyshire County Council is the largest provider of adult education classes in the county and we have more than 45,000 enrolments every year. But we still want more people to get back into learning and that is what Adult Learners` Week is all about." 

The authority offers: 

• Free exam fees for people on means-tested benefits, on computer courses up to level 2. 
• Free tuition on all English and Maths GCSE courses. 
• Free basic skills courses to improve reading, writing and maths skills. 

Councillor Janes added: "Learning is the perfect way for people to explore their untapped abilities, and our wide range of courses is expanding all the time. 

"With literally hundreds of courses and classes to choose from we want to show people what is on offer and perhaps give them the chance to try something new or learn something different." 

For more information on courses starting in September look out for the new Adult Community Education Brochure which will be delivered to all Derbyshire households during July and August or visit our website www.derbyshire.gov.uk/adulteducation (opens in a new window) 

CASE STUDIES

Colin Boynton, Buxton 

Dry stone waller Colin Boynton is building a new future for himself having taken up a course with the Derbyshire County Council-led College of the Peak. 

The 43-year-old from Buxton left school with five O levels and no idea of the kind of career he really wanted. 

He spent several years switching jobs from mending clocks, to driving, hotel work and gardening before becoming unemployed for two years. 

Colin got a job working in an accounts office and spent the next 14 years with various companies covering all aspects of accountancy, but he was still not really happy in his work. 

By Christmas 2003, he had moved to Buxton and had realized that he had to do something about his work situation. 

"I was bored of accountancy and felt I had to get out," said Colin. 

"The night before I went back to work after New Year, I lay awake and just didn`t want to go on. 

"I made a decision to leave there and then and got up to write out a month`s notice." 

Colin had no job to go to and no idea what he would do next. He started working as a self employed casual labourer and while handing out his business card at a local farm he discovered they used to hold courses in dry stone walling - something he had admired for years. 

Some weeks later, a master craftsman who had been given Colin`s business card contacted him unexpectedly to tell him that Bakewell-based College of the Peak was running a course in dry stone walling. 

Colin has since enrolled on the Walls for the Future course and says it has completely changed his life. 

As well as learning new skills, Colin was able to put theory into practice after his tutor set up some work experience with a local farmer. 

The farmer was so impressed, that he offered Colin more work repairing his walls - and paid him for it. 

Now Colin is working as a self employed dry stone waller. 

Colin said: "I`m a much happier person now. I know I`ve found the career I want to follow. It`s taken me a long time, but it was worth the wait. 

"Getting on the Walls for the Future course, has turned my whole life around and set it on a positive course. 

"Now, I have the confidence to get out there and do what I really want to do. 

"If I hadn`t taken the opportunity to learn something new, my life would still be in a rut. 

"Now I get up in a morning and regardless of weather, look forward to getting outside and working. 

"I`d like to thank everyone who has helped me along my new career path and given my life a new meaning." 

Louise Nadin, College of the Peak co-ordinator, added: "Colin is the perfect example of how adult education can provide life-changing opportunities at any time of life. 

"I come across so many people who have spent their working-life in a particular job or career when they have always really wanted to do something else. 

"Colin had the courage to bite the bullet and change his career and I`m pleased that the College of the Peak was able to provide him with the course he wanted to do on his doorstep. It`s a real privilege to work with people like Colin." 

Adele Alcock, Bolsover 

Since whetting her appetite for learning two years ago, mum-of-four Adele Alcock has decided to go back to college to study a full-time course. 

Adele, 35, began a series of short childcare courses as part of a group of mums on the Castle Estate in Bolsover, after picking up a leaflet at her local clinic. 

Now she has passed several courses including Child Development, Child`s Play, Creative Writing and Practical Parenting and hopes to study a NVQ in Childcare from September and work with children at pre-school and nursery. 

Having access to education on her doorstep at the estate`s Orchard Drop-In Community House and the nearby creche means that Adele can combine learning with being a mum to her children aged from five months to seven-years. 

She said: "I first went along to the community house a few months after we had moved to the area because I thought it would be a good way of meeting new people. 

"I found there were other mums in the same situation as me trying to bridge the gap between finishing work to have children and going back into employment. The courses I have taken gave me the chance to fit in something I could use in the future at the same time as being a full-time mum." 

She added: "I`ve gained some fantastic experience and it`s been nothing like the classroom experience I imagined. 

"There`s a really friendly atmosphere with women of different age ranges in a great family environment. 

"It`s given me a great chance to meet other parents and train for a career in childcare." 

Claire Ashmore, programme manager for adult community education in the area, said: "Adele and the other mums would never have got back into learning if we hadn`t taken learning to them on the estate. 

"Now they can`t get enough. It`s really given them a different slant on learning altogether. 

"The community house has allowed us to deliver learning on their doorsteps which will help them to pursue further courses in the future." 

Vanessa Connolly, Long Eaton

Vanessa Connolly has been described as an "inspiration" to other learners after she went back to the books and turned her life around. 

Despite considerable personal difficulties including long term illness, the 23-year-old mum is determined to re-train and get back to work with the help of staff at Derbyshire County Council`s Community House Adult Education Centre. 

Vanessa suffers from fibromyalgia syndrome - a chronic musculoskeletal condition which causes her constant pain and fatigue. 

Having left school at 13 without any qualifications and spending the past four years unemployed due to her illness, Vanessa is now learning new skills and aspires to set up her own business solutions company from home. 

Since first signing up in September, she has passed the New CLAIT computer course, gained OCN level 1 in Office Skills, OCR level 1 in Book Keeping and is studying for GCSEs in English and Maths. 

Staff at Community House have adapted Vanessa`s tutoring to adapt to her needs. 

"I already had NVQs in childcare and retail but I can`t work in a structured environment any more because I can sometimes become really ill," she said. 

"I had to look at ways in which I could work from home which meant I had to change direction completely. 

"Having signed up for an adult education course, I discovered I had a flare for book-keeping and decided to get qualified so I can become self-employed. That way, if I`m struggling to walk I will still be able to work from home." 

She added: "The staff at Community House have been a great support. 

"If I`m off sick they will send work to me in the post and have arranged extra tutoring for me. I wouldn`t have passed my exams otherwise. 

"Going back into education was one of the best decisions I have ever made. After years of having low self-esteem and lacking confidence I`ve discovered that I am good at something and I`m actually quite intelligent. 

"Now for the first time in my life, I feel like a human being and a worthwhile member of society." 

Mary Hurt, programme manager at Community House, said: "Vanessa is an inspiration. Despite a range of personal difficulties and continued ill health, she has maintained an inner core of determination. 

"We were pleased to be able to support her through a lot of difficulties and together with our support and her determination, I`m sure she will reach her goal." 

An Overseal supermarket licensee has been fined £750 after a member of his staff sold alcohol to an underage child. 

Derbyshire County Council`s trading standards brought the prosecution against Harbajhan Singh Kang, 46, under the 1964 Licensing Act. 

The deputy district judge at Derby Magistrates Court today (Wednesday 5 May) heard that a 15-year-old child volunteer, accompanied by enforcement officers from trading standards, visited Kang Supermarket in Burton Road, Overseal on 26 July 2003 and was sold a bottle of Smirnoff Ice by a shop assistant. 

The court heard that Harbajhan Singh Kang was present behind the counter when the sale was made. Neither he nor the shop assistant made any attempt to check the child`s age or ask for any proof of identification. 

Harbajhan Singh Kang pleaded guilty to a charge of selling alcohol to a person under the age of 18 and was fined £750 and ordered to pay £235 costs. 

The court heard the licensee had been convicted of a similar offence in 2002 at a store in Tamworth, Staffordshire. 

But, in mitigation, the deputy district judge was told that the retailer had evidence to show he had refused underage sales of Lottery tickets and alcohol in the past. 

Councillor Walter Burrows, Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for public protection and transport, said: "It is very disappointing that this trader has committed a second offence despite knowing the rules about the sale of alcohol to underage children. 

"The deputy district judge made it clear at the hearing that if he commits any further offences then his licence will be revoked. 

"The trader has received a substantial fine and we hope it sends out a message to other licensees that Derbyshire County Council`s trading standards will bring prosecutions where the law is broken." 

Derbyshire County Council has carried out an extensive publicity campaign to make traders aware of the rules regarding the age limits for selling alcohol. 

The authority`s trading standards officers will continue to carry out test purchases of alcohol and other age restricted products such as cigarettes, butane, knives and fireworks throughout 2004 to ensure sellers are complying with the law. 

Any traders unsure of the law concerning the sales of these products to children should contact trading standards on 01629 585858. 

A discount food store in Eckington has been fined £9,000 after admitting failing to comply with food labelling regulations following a routine check by Derbyshire County Council`s Trading Standards service. Sheffield-based Job Lot Trading Company, which runs the Job Lot Discount Store on Eckington High Street, admitted a total of six charges at Chesterfield Magistrates` Court today (5 May). 

The charges, which relate to a visit by trading standards officers on 5 September last year, were for displaying for sale: 

• 28 packs of Silhouette vanilla frozen desert labelled entirely in a foreign language 
• 91 cartons of Kellogg`s Chocos labelled entirely in a foreign language 
• 207 cans of Coca Cola light labelled entirely in a foreign language 
• 47 packs of Penguin biscuits without a `best before` date 
• 57 packs of Lyons wafer fingers without the name of the food, ingredients list, `best before` date, or name and address of manufacturer or distributor. 
• 20 packs of an Indian selection of onion bhajis and samosas without an ingredients list, `best before` date, or address of manufacturer or distributor. 

Trading standards officers in Derbyshire and Sheffield had found problems in shops run by the company on four previous occasions. Advice on food labeling had been given backed up by a warning that further problems could result in court action. The company told the court that they had taken action following the warning letters and said that the problems in the Eckington store were due to staff not following instructions. 

Councillor Walter Burrows, Derbyshire County Council`s cabinet member for public protection and transport, said: "Food labelling regulations are in place to provide accurate information to consumers so that they can make informed choices about what they are buying.

"Lists of ingredients can be vital for people who have certain allergies, for example, but it is also important details such as the shelf life of the product is clearly displayed for the safety of consumers. 

"We are pleased that the courts have acknowledged the seriousness of this case with a substantial financial penalty and hope that it will act as a warning to other retailers who might be selling products without sufficient labelling." 

The firm was also ordered to pay £470 costs. 

Daring climbers have been dangling from the rooftop of Derbyshire County Council headquarters in Matlock in honour of the Queen. Armed with paint pots and safety ropes, the experienced mountaineers scaled the council`s metal crown on top of County Hall and painted it gold to mark the Queen`s Golden Jubilee. 

Matlock Civic Association and Derwent Mountaineering Club were responsible for the work, which involved scraping down the metal and repainting it with a weather resistant gold paint. The crown was last painted in 1977 when it was decorated silver to mark the Queen`s Silver Jubilee. 

Derbyshire County Council is making donations to both organisations for offering their expertise and equipment to the project. 

Derbyshire County Council Leader Councillor John Williams said: "We are delighted with the finished result. The crown has not looked so spectacular since it was painted in the 70s. 

"We are very grateful to Matlock Civic Association for organising this work and the Derwent mountaineers for their competence while carrying out such a difficult piece of paint work. 

"Lets hope the weather stays sunny so people can appreciate the new look crown in all its glory." 

Chair of Matlock Civic Association David Smith was responsible for co-ordinating the work and all on site safety was taken care of by Peter Scott of Derwent Mountaineering Club. County council senior surveyor John Belcher was also on hand to allow the climbers access to the tower. 

Thanks to the good weather, the climbers finished the job in half the time they had expected and the council`s head office is now adorned with a shiny gold crown.

Cartoon inspired works of art using the motif of a skull are going on show at Buxton Museum and Art Gallery on Saturday 8 May. 

The exhibition, Dado III, has been created by artist John Rattigan to explore how the art styles found in caricature, cartoons and comics can be integrated within fine art. 

John uses the motif of a skull, often repeated many times, to provide large murals reminiscent of computer games or oriental calligraphy. 

John`s artwork has previously been seen at exhibitions in Manchester, Staffordshire, Shropshire and even at the Washington Museum of Contemporary Art, United States. 

The exhibition can be seen at the museum on Terrace Road, Buxton until Saturday 3 July. Anyone wishing to find out more can chat to John who will be at the museum on Saturday 29 May and Tuesday 1 June between 2pm and 4pm. 

Derbyshire County Council cabinet member for community services Councillor Bob Janes said: "It is great to welcome such a talented and successful artist to our gallery and share these modern works of art with our visitors. 

"It is not very often we have an exhibition that has been stateside visiting our museum in Buxton. 

"I am sure that many people will enjoy this extremely bright collection of paintings and multi-media images." 

Visitors to the gallery can also see Frames of Mind, a major exhibition by Cyril Jones, which runs until 15 May. 

Entry to all exhibitions at Buxton Museum and Art Gallery is free as part of Derbyshire County Council`s commitment to increase public access to the arts. 

Information about all the exhibitions is available by ringing Ros Westwood or Sue Palmer at the museum and art gallery on 01298 24658. 

An unclassified road in Derbyshire is being upgraded to form part of the country`s first purpose-built, long distance bridleway. 

The five-kilometre section of highway from Rushup Edge to Beet Lane in Chinley is closed while Derbyshire County Council carries out the work. 

New surfacing and drainage is being installed along the route which is popular with walkers and off-road vehicles. 

Supplies are being brought in by helicopter to upgrade the remote section of road which will become part of the Pennine Bridleway National Trail for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. Created by the Countryside Agency, the 350-mile route is the first purpose-built, long-distance bridleway in the country. 

It is being opened in stages with the second section - a 70-mile stretch through Derbyshire, and the High Peak to Manchester and beyond - due to open on Thursday 27 May. I

t is hoped the road being upgraded as part of the second section of the trail will be open to walkers in tim