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March
| 31 March 2006 | Buxton parking scheme made permanent |
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Parking controls in Buxton have seen a greater turnover of visitor spaces and kept residential streets free from commuter and tourist parking. And now – after a good response from local people – the 18 month experiment will be made permanent. Derbyshire County Council introduced an on-street parking scheme in and around the Opera House, the Square and the Crescent in November 2004 in a bid to remove all day commuter parking, provide priority parking for residents and improve town centre parking for visitors and shoppers. The measures included:
Changes were made last year to some of the residents’ parking and pay and display after concerns from people in Hall Bank, Eagle Street, George Mansions, The Quadrant and part of Hartington Road. And the county council carried out a consultation as the experimental period came to an end to help decide whether it should be made permanent. The scheme will now stay as it is with areas outside the residents’ only parking continuing to be monitored. Consideration will also be given to further residents’ permit schemes in the future. Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for sustainable communities Councillor Brian Lucas said: “We introduced this scheme to address Buxton’s parking problems. “The changes mean shoppers and tourists can now park close to the town centre and there is an increased turnover of spaces. Residents are also able to park on or close to their street without it being congested by commuter and tourist parking. “We are obviously pleased the scheme has proved a success and been well received by so many residents.” (REF: SM.126.06) |
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| 31 March 2006 | Arctic Monkeys share secrets with b_line |
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Read all about it! The latest edition of b_line magazine is out now – and it’s got an exclusive interview with the world’s hottest new band! Derbyshire County Council has just published the spring issue of the mag which supports its popular b_line youth discount and half-fare travel card scheme. And this term as well as all the same great features, news, discounts and competitions b_line gets the Arctic Monkeys to reveal all about their remarkable success and almost accidental rise to fame when they put their demo tracks on the Internet. The 40 page colour mag is packed full of advice for all 11 to 18 year-old cardholders such as tips on Internet chat rooms, saving money, great offers and travel info. Plus b_line gets up close and personal with Soapstar Superstar winner Richard Fleeshman and finds out how he managed to find time to do his GSCEs while playing Craig on Coronation Street. B_liners can also get the low-down on the Big Vote, win a Willy Wonka-style day at Cadbury World and share their views about bullying with the ‘big b_line bullying blitz’ pull-out section. Youngsters can also read real life stories from other b_liners, get career advice from people who landed their dream jobs and even win a mini Ipod simply by filling in the b_line mag survey. There’s also a list of more than 750 participating shops and services so cardholders can see who offers b_line discounts, music, games and gadget news to make the most of your Easter holidays. Derbyshire County Council leader Councillor John Williams said: “Once again our b_line magazine is packed full of the latest news and advice on relevant issues facing our young people in Derbyshire. “The magazine is an excellent way of passing on information to b_liners as well as helping them get the most from their card.” More than 55,000 copies of the latest edition of the b_line magazine are now available through Derbyshire schools, colleges, youth centres, libraries and from b_line discounters. Copies are also available by phoning Call Derbyshire on 08456 058 058. All 11 to 18 year-olds who live in Derbyshire are automatically issued with b_line cards through their school, as long as it is run by Derbyshire County Council or Derby City Council, or through their college. For more information about b_line, or if you are a business who would like to sign up, visit the b_line website (opens in a new window) or ring Call Derbyshire on 08456 058 058. (Ref: SS.127.06) |
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| 31 March 2006 | Temporary Bridge Installed in Ironville |
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A temporary road bridge has been installed for traffic in Ironville while Derbyshire County Council carries out essential work to replace an old rail bridge. |
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| 31 March 2006 | New collection is the real deal |
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Visitors to a new exhibition being launched by Derbyshire County Council will learn how to tell real goods from counterfeit ones. Kopy Kats will feature items used to forge money including a melting pot, solidifying tin, metric weights and paint together with fake bank notes and coins. Also on show as part of the travelling exhibition will be fake branded goods such as watches, trainers, tee-shirts and handbags. The new collection, put together with help from the council’s Trading Standards team, aims to explore the effect of counterfeit goods on the county’s economy, including local businesses and consumers. It is the second in a series of touring exhibitions being put together by the county council which took over responsibility for the Derbyshire Police Museum Collection in 2004. As well as looking at the exhibits, visitors will be able to get their hands on a range of information and advice about spotting and avoiding fake goods. Councillor Bob Janes, the county council’s cabinet member for community services, said: “Counterfeiting robs the Derbyshire economy of millions of pounds a year. “By using items available from the police collections together with those seized by our Trading Standards officers we can help to get this message across. “We hope that as well as being informative, visitors will find this exhibition very interesting and give them an insight in to how to avoid fake products.” Councillor Janes will be at the launch of the new exhibition at Eckington Library in Market Street on Thursday 6 April between 1pm and 3pm. He will be joined by police officers, Trading Standards officers and children from Eckington School who will take part in a workshop on the day. Kopy Kats will be on display at Eckington Library until 6 June when it will begin its tour of libraries and community venues around the county. The first exhibition created by the county council from the police collections was called Motor-vated and was launched last year. It includes items related to policing Derbyshire’s roads, including a speed gun and alcohol breath testing kits. It is currently on tour around Amber Valley having already been to the High Peak and Derbyshire Dales. (Ref: CC.128.06) |
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| 30 March 2006 | Derbyshire schools outperform national test averages |
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Pupils in Derbyshire have outperformed national averages in test results for 14 year-olds published by the Government today (Thursday). The achievement and attainment tables look at the Key Stage 3 National Curriculum assessment tests, also known as SATs, taken by students in 2005. The percentage of Derbyshire pupils (excluding Derby City) who achieved the benchmark level five standard at Key Stage 3 was (national figures are in brackets):
Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for school planning and support, said: “Every year since the league tables began in 2002 pupils in Derbyshire schools have consistently achieved results that have been above the national average at Key Stage 3. “I am very pleased to see Derbyshire schools continued this trend in the 2005 tests. What these figures show is the hard work put in by pupils and teaching staff to raise standards, with the support of parents, governors and education advisors from Derbyshire County Council.” The tables also reveal the results of schools in individual subjects, their overall point scores and a value added measure, which looks at pupils’ progress between the ages of 11 and 14. Schools performing well on the overall points score include Ecclesbourne School in Duffield, St Mary’s Catholic High School in Upper Newbold, John Port School in Etwall, St John Houghton Catholic School in Kirk Hallam, Highfields School in Matlock and St Thomas More Catholic School in Buxton. Schools doing well in the value added measures include Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Ashbourne, John Flamsteed Community School, Chapel-en-le-Frith High School, Highfields School in Matlock and Hope Valley College. The results of all schools, including a subject-by-subject breakdown, are available by visiting the Department for Education and Skills (opens in a new window) website. (REF: JF.121.06) |
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| 29 March 2006 | Schools get building improvements windfall |
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More than £14.6 million will be given to schools by Derbyshire County Council to improve the quality of buildings and IT equipment. Each school in Derbyshire receives a share of the Government funding apart from new schools which have been built in the last three years. All schools get a guaranteed minimum of £17,000 but then receive an extra:
The money can be spent on building projects, such as constructing new classrooms, replacing windows or improving playgrounds or toilets. For the first time the funding will also include cash for schools to improve their computer network or other IT equipment, such as interactive whiteboards. Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for school planning and support, said: “It is up to schools to decide how to spend this money, although it has to be on building projects or IT improvements and not on everyday costs such as new books. “Some schools will choose to spend the money on minor improvements themselves and others will use it as match funding towards more expensive building projects that we will jointly pay for. “This is part of the on-going programme of improvements being made to Derbyshire schools using funding from the Government and Derbyshire County Council.” The money is intended to be spent in financial year 2006/07 but schools can choose to save it towards large scale projects if they indicate what the money will eventually be spent on. (REF: JF.125.06) |
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| 29 March 2006 | Hilton primary expansion gets go ahead |
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Plans to create Derbyshire’s biggest primary school have been given the green light by Derbyshire County Council. The authority is going to build a £1.4 million extension to Hilton Primary School in Peacroft Lane so it can take up to 775 pupils instead of the 655 students it currently has. It will also increase the number of pupils the school can admit in September from 85 to 110. The decision by Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet came after no objections to the plans were received during a formal six-week statutory consultation period. Work will start in late July to build a four-classroom extension block and new footpath leading to the existing school site. An additional playground will also be constructed on what is currently a school field. A replacement school playing field will be created on neighbouring land currently owned by South Derbyshire District Council. This follows a land swap deal which saw South Derbyshire receive land in Welland Road. The extension is needed to cope with an expected growth in pupil numbers caused by new housing estates being built in the village. Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for school planning and support, said: “We are pleased these proposals have received the support of the community in Hilton and now also have planning permission. “It means we can now press ahead with getting the extension built so that it is ready for the start of the new school year in September. “The extension will make Hilton the biggest primary school in Derbyshire and enable the school to meet the growing demand for school places in the village.” The decision to come up with plans to extend Hilton Primary School rather than build a second primary school in the village was taken last year. It followed public consultation about the best way of meeting demand for school places created by new housing developments. (REF: JF.124.06) |
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| 29 March 2006 | Countdown for candidates in Big Vote |
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Time is running out for young people to take part in the Derbyshire County Council-run Big Vote elections. So far more than 9000 votes have been cast by young people to vote for candidates they want to represent them, on the Derbyshire Youth Forum. The forum was set up by Derbyshire County Council in 2000 to give young people a greater voice in the decisions that affect their lives, on a local and regional scale. Two candidates from each district will be elected onto the forum and serve a two-year term of office. All young people aged 11 to 19 who live or study in Derbyshire can take part in the Big Vote. To help with their decision hustings events are being organised by the authority’s youth service up until the closing date on Wednesday 5 April. Full details of these events are online at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/b_line (opens in a new window). Some of the bigger events are:
Councillor Bob Janes, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for cultural and community services, said: “The Big Vote elections give young people the chance to talk about issues that affect their lives. “There are only a few days left for them to vote for the candidates that will act as their voice on a wide variety of issues over the next two years. I hope that as many young people as possible will use their chance to vote.” Young people can vote until Wednesday 5 April online at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/b_line (opens in a new window), by text message or by posting their vote into a ballot box at any Derbyshire library. (REF: MO.123.06) |
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| 27 March 2006 | Festival Line-up Announced |
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Big names in the world of books are among the attractions at this year’s Derbyshire Literature Festival – an extravaganza of words and much much more.
The festival will get off to a flying start when a Wagon Train of 10 mobile libraries heads west to the Bakewell Showground on Saturday, June 3, for a day of reading and writing activities. Attractions include festival writer-in-residence Jen Edgar and Derbyshire poet laureate Cathy Grindrod, storyteller Graham Langley and book illustrator Martin Wright. |
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| 24 March 2006 | Severe Disruption to Services Expected |
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Residents are being warned to expect severe disruption to services during strike action by Derbyshire County Council employees on Tuesday 28 March. Industrial action by staff over proposed changes to their pensions will affect services across the county with some services not being available at all. It could mean that:
Councillor John Williams, leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “Please don’t assume any service will be provided. We need you to take care so you and your family stay safe and well.” Talks between the unions and the county council have been held in a bid to identify key jobs which will be exempt from strike action. The dispute is centred on proposed increases to the local government pension scheme retirement age. Currently employees with 25 years or more service can retire at 60 with no loss of benefits. Under the proposals employees can still retire at 60 but will have their income reduced. “This is a national dispute which is up to the Government to resolve,” added Councillor Williams. Derbyshire County Council employs around 33,000 people – 10,730 are union members. (REF:JM.119.06) |
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| 24 March 2006 | Wannabe pop stars take to the stage |
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Competition is hotting up for the coveted title of Derbyshire’s Young Band of the Year, with the entrants narrowed down to a dozen talented hopefuls. Judges have drawn up a 12 band shortlist from 28 entries into the annual competition, organised by Derbyshire County Council and the Donut Recording Studio in Chesterfield. The bands will now battle it out over two heats set to take place at the county council-run studios in Springbank Road on Monday 3 April and Tuesday 4 April. Six successful bands will go through to the finals on Friday 7 April at the Winding Wheel, Holywell Street, Chesterfield. And music lovers can see the bands in action. Admission to the heats is £1 with the county council’s b_line travel and discount card, or £2 without it. Entry to the finals is £3 for everyone. All gigs start at 7pm. Councillor Bob Janes, the county council’s cabinet member for cultural and community services, said: “The heats and final are sure to be really good nights. It’s clear from the quality of entries that there’s some excellent young musical talent here in Derbyshire. "This popular contest helps showcase local talent and gives the bands a great opportunity to perform live on stage in front of a big crowd. "I wish them all the best of luck." Now in its 11th year, the annual contest is staged by the county council in partnership with a committee of local young people. All bands which enter must live in Derbyshire and be under the age of 19 by the date of the final. They submit a demo tape containing three songs – including one original track – which are judged by the young organisers. The winner of the competition will get a free recording session at the studio. For more information about the heats or the final, call Brian Evans at the Donut Studio on 01246 220636. |
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| 23 March 2006 | New Gold Card guide to your services |
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Calling all Gold Card holders! The latest edition of your ‘Derbyshire Gold’ magazine contains a new free pull-out guide to public services for older people and their families. The 48-page guide has been produced by Derbyshire County Council following an idea suggested by members of Derbyshire’s 50+ Forums who said having services provided by different agencies listed in one booklet would make life easier. It provides contact details to help readers with a range of issues including council services, money matters, transport, crime, health, leisure, libraries and housing. County council leader Councillor John Williams said: “We’ve listened to our older residents and are delighted to publish this new guide which they’ve told us will help them get the most from their council, health and other local public services.” The pull-out guide is included inside the new 36-page spring/summer edition of Derbyshire Gold, available from next week (Monday 27 March) from all county council libraries and mobile libraries, all district and borough council offices, County Hall in Matlock or from any Gold Card roadshow. The magazine supports Derbyshire County Council’s Gold Card travel and discount card scheme for residents aged over 60 and disabled people launched in partnership with the city, borough and district councils in 2004. It is packed full of features, articles and interviews on a range of topics covering lifestyle, leisure, health, public transport and other issues affecting older people. In this edition readers can find out all they need to know about the new free Gold Card bus travel scheme, pick up some tips how to be happy and healthy from our eight-page supplement and learn how to use the internet. There’s also advice to help cardholders get the most out of their Gold Card and a panel of experts who can answer their questions about services for older people. What’s more, as well as the usual offers and competitions including winning a weekend away in Blackpool and a year’s membership at a health and fitness club, there’s a chance for one lucky cardholder to win tickets to see Cliff Richard. Councillor Williams added: “Derbyshire Gold is an excellent way of passing on information to our 150,000 Gold Card holders as well as helping them get the most from the scheme. “We’re delighted to be able to promote our great new free bus travel scheme in this edition as well as offer lots of useful tips and information, entertaining features and ideas for getting out and about.” The current Gold Card directory, containing information about all 1,350 shops and other local businesses offering discounts, is available to cardholders on request. For more information about Gold Card or to view the magazine, directory or new guide online visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk/goldcard (opens in a new window) Copies of the magazine, directory and guide to public services are available from Call Derbyshire on 08 456 058 058. They are also available in large print and Braille. (Ref: LT.106.06) |
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| 23 March 2006 | Get crafty at Derbyshire Food and Drink Fair |
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Old favourites will be joined by new exhibitors to make sure that the success of this year’s craft exhibition at the Derbyshire Food and Drink Fair is all sewn up. Crafts @ the Castle gives designers and makers a chance to show off their talents to a wider audience and gives visitors the chance to buy direct from the exhibitors. Organised by Derbyshire County Council, the fifth annual fair takes place at Bolsover Castle on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 May from 10am to 5pm. There will be more than 100 stalls and exhibitions showcasing the county’s top food and drink together with demonstrations by celebrity chef James Tanner and TV’s ‘Flying Cook’ Rachel Green. The popular fair – which last year attracted 22,000 visitors – also includes children’s entertainment, a prize draw and a cooking competition for local catering students. Crafts @ the Castle, which has been part of the food and drink fair for the past three years, will this year be based in the Riding School at the castle. Councillor Bob Janes, the County Council's cabinet member for cultural and community services, said: “There are new exhibitors this year as well as return visits from craftspeople who were established as firm favourites last year so there will be a lot to look forward to. “The fair really is an excellent opportunity for visitors to see the amazing wealth of talent that we have on our doorstep and gives exhibitors the chance to meet the public, demonstrate their work and showcase their products. “It is a brilliant weekend and there will be fun for all the family together with the chance to sample products before you buy direct from the producers.” Exhibitors taking part in this year’s Crafts @ the Castle are:
Entry to the Derbyshire Food and Drink Fair is £2 which gives access not only to the fair but also to the castle grounds and the castle itself, where there is normally a £6 entry fee. In addition there will be a continental market in Bolsover town centre all day on Saturday and Sunday. Crafts @ the Castle is part of the programme of works of the Derbyshire Arts Partnership which is funded by Derbyshire and Derby local authorities and the Arts Council England. (Ref: CC.116.06) |
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| 23 March 2006 | Shop licensee fined for underage alcohol sales |
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A shop owner has been fined £800 after an undercover teenager bought alcohol in his Killamarsh store. Resham Singh Khela (51) who owns Supasaver, on Rotherham Road faced three charges at Chesterfield Magistrates’ Court yesterday (Wednesday 22 March) following an investigation by Derbyshire County Council’s trading standards service. In August 2004 trading standards carried out an under age enforcement exercise to see whether traders were selling alcohol to children. A 14-year-old volunteer visited Khela’s Supasaver shop and bought two bottles of alcopops. The shop assistant didn’t ask the girl for any form of ID before the sale took place. Later on the same day, the girl made another purchase of two more alcopops, and once again she was not asked for her age or ID. Two different shop assistants made the sales and were formally interviewed as part of the investigation. But, as sole licensee and co-owner of the business, the main responsibility of ensuring alcohol is not sold to children lies with Khela. Khela of Empire Drive, Maltby, Rotherham, pleaded not guilty to two charges of selling alcohol to a person under 18 years on 8 August 2004 but admitted failing to display his name as the licensee of the premises. Khela was found guilty of both charges and fined £350 for each underage sales offence. He was also fined £100 for not displaying his licensee notice and ordered to pay £700 prosecution costs. Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for community safety services Councillor Joyce Sanders said: “We are committed to cracking down on the sale of alcohol to underage children across the county and we hope the substantial fine imposed today sends out a very clear message to traders that they will not get away with breaking the law. “Shop owners need to take extra care to prevent alcohol being sold to children. This includes being responsible for any shop assistants working on their premises. “Our trading standards team goes to great lengths to offer support and advice to traders to help them stay on the right side of the law so ignorance is no excuse.” Any trader or member of the public unsure of the law concerning the sale of alcohol to children can call Derbyshire trading standards team on 01629 585858. (Ref: SS.115.06) |
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| 23 March 2006 | Wartime memories kept alive with book project |
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The memories of people who lived through the Second World War have been turned into a book thanks to a project involving older people, pupils and Derbyshire County Council. Students from William Allitt Secondary School in Newhall made several visits to residential and day care homes in Woodville and Swadlincote to interview older people as part of the Home Front Recall Project in South Derbyshire. Before the visits, writer Jen Edgar taught pupils different interview techniques including the use of tape recorders to make sure they accurately got down everyone’s memories. The older people who were interviewed were encouraged to bring artefacts from the war, such as gas masks, clothing, pictures, letters or other memorabilia and some of the letters and pictures have been used in the book. The year nine students interviewed a number of older people at Woodville Residential Care Home, the former Oaklands Home for Older People, the Lincotes Resource Centre and the Lincotes outreach group at Granville Court in Swadlincote. Jen used the information collected by pupils, which focussed on the last two years of the war and when peace was declared, to write a book called `Keep the Home Fires Burning’ which has now been published. The project was run using a £10,925 grant from the Big Lottery Fund’s Home Front. Recall programme, which aims to promote awareness about the 60th anniversary of the Second World War. Councillor Bob Janes, cabinet member for cultural and community services, said: “The aim of the book was to record what it was really like to live in Britain during war time and when peace was declared and it will provide a permanent record of an important part of Derbyshire’s history. “The project brought together older and younger people and helped to break down stereotypical images of each age group. It also gave older people an excellent chance to share their life experiences.” The county council’s Local Studies Library at County Hall, Matlock will hold copies of all the taped interviews and original transcripts so that interested people can access them. The book costs £4.50 and is available to buy from Swadlincote Library. It can also be ordered through library administration staff by ringing 01629 585591. A small postage and package charge is applicable. (Ref: MC.114.06) |
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| 22 March 2006 | Rare document charts history of Clowne |
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A rare document giving a unique insight in to life in Clowne in the 19th century has been handed over to Derbyshire Record Office. The 14 pages of handwritten parchment – called a Glebe Terrier – have been donated to the County Council-run archive by Clowne Local History Society. Members of the society recently unearthed the document which was lost from the parish records of St John the Baptist Church many years ago. It provides a snapshot of life in the village between 1727 and 1857 and includes a list of fields belonging to the church and the names of the tenants. It details the cost of getting married at the church in 1857 which was two shillings and sixpence - equivalent to 14p today - with an extra shilling to call the bans. The document also lists parish benefactors such as John Slater who, in 1727, left 40 shillings a year to provide an education for “six poor children of Clowne”. Ten years later, another benefactor left a house and land in the village to provide an income for a schoolmaster to teach 12 of the poorest children reading, writing and arithmetic. The schoolmaster was paid £17 10s (£17.50) a year. This document will be placed in the record office, in New Street, Matlock, along with other records for Clowne including registers of baptisms, marriages and burials which can be accessed by members of the public. Councillor Bob Janes, the County Council’s cabinet member for cultural and community services, said: “I would like to thank Clowne Local History Group for donating this important document to Derbyshire Record Office. “It helps to fill a gap in the series of documents we already have relating to Clowne and enhances our knowledge of life in the parish in the eighteenth and nineteenth century which can be enjoyed by generations to come.” (Ref: CC.113.06) |
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| 21 March 2006 | Ron and Chris celebrate foster care milestone |
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Champagne corks have been popping for a couple who have taken on their 100th foster care placement. Derbyshire County Council Chair Councillor Walter Burrows led the tributes to Ron and Chris Oxley at a surprise celebration at the Old Hall Hotel, Buxton. More than 50 guests turned out to congratulate the couple on their achievement including social services staff who have supported the couple during their 18-year career as foster carers for the county council. The event was organised by the authority in recognition of Ron and Chris’s outstanding contribution to fostering and to thank them for providing a loving and stable home for so many children. A special guest was the couple’s longest-ever placement, Sarah*, who is still with them 18 years after arriving at the age of three. Ron and Chris’s 100th placement is a two-month old boy called Simon*, who is now in their care following a spell in hospital after being born eight weeks premature. Simon has flourished since joining them, doubling his 4 lbs birth weigh. The couple, who live in the High Peak, will care for the baby until he is placed with adoptive parents. Chris said: “We knew we had looked after a lot of children over the years but not quite so many! We’re usually too busy providing care or preparing for the next placement to give it a second thought. “And so we had no idea the county council was organising a celebration on our behalf. We were gob-smacked when we saw the number of people who had come along to congratulate us. It was lovely to see so many social workers, colleagues and associates who we’ve worked with over the years and everyone had a wonderful time.” Ron, a retired engineer, and Chris, a full-time housewife, decided to become foster parents after getting married in 1987. Over the years they have looked after sibling groups, children with learning difficulties and babies who have become addicted to drugs or affected by alcohol in the womb. They have also looked after children while their parent is in hospital and taken youngsters for respite. The couple, who are both aged 62 and have four grown-up children of their own, now take emergency cases and look after babies before they are adopted. Part of their role is to take the babies to meet their new parents and to help them bond before they are adopted and to sometimes take the babies to their natural parents and families for a last visit before they are officially adopted. Chris continued: “Looking back, we never envisaged it in our wildest dreams that we’d go on to look after so many children. It just sort of escalated. But we enjoy it so much that we’ll carry on for as long as we can. “I can’t imagine life without the babies. It’s great to see them settled with their new parents when they go on to be adopted.” Councillor Burrows said: “Ron and Chris are a very special couple who are loved by many people and admired and respected by the county council. The Fostering Network tells us that most carers will look after children for around seven years before they finish fostering, which really puts Ron and Chris’s achievements into perspective. “The celebrations gave us an opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to them and show our gratitude for all their hard work and dedication.”
One-hundred not out!…(l to r) Derbyshire County Council Chair Councillor Walter Burrows joins Chris and Ron in celebrating their landmark foster placement. (REF: RS.111.06) |
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| 21 March 2006 | Helping Farmers Clear the Way |
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Farmers ploughing fields across the county are being reminded by Derbyshire County Council to keep public rights of way clear.
Councillor Brian Lucas, Derbyshire County Council's cabinet member for sustainable communities, said: “We are committed to improving access to Derbyshire’s countryside and protecting public rights of way routes. That’s why we’re offering help to farmers, their staff and contractors to make sure they stay on the right side of the law and keep public rights of way clear.” (REF:JM.112.06) |
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| 20 March 2006 | Roadworks between Ashbourne and Belper |
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Drivers are being warned about possible delays as work begins to improve a busy rural road. Resurfacing work will take place on the A517 between Ashbourne and Belper starting on Monday 27 March. The two-week scheme is being carried out by Derbyshire County Council to improve the condition of over half a mile of road at Bradley Smithy. The £147,000 improvement will take place at the same time as work to widen the junction and improve the road markings at the Bradley Smithy crossroads to make it safer for traffic turning right into Bradley. Drivers are warned to expect long delays as a 10mph speed limit will be implemented during the works to ensure the safety of the workers. Heavy goods vehicles are advised to find an alternative route if possible to avoid these works. Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for sustainable communities Councillor Brian Lucas said: “These works are part of the county council’s ongoing commitment to improve Derbyshire’s highways. “We apologise to drivers for any inconvenience caused and would ask motorists to be patient while this essential resurfacing work is carried out." (Ref: SS.110.06) |
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| 17 March 2006 | Protection for vital services during strike action |
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Services for vulnerable people will be protected despite any strike action by Derbyshire County Council employees. The reassurance follows the latest ballot of local government workers which voted in favour of industrial action over the Government’s proposed changes to their pensions. But, talks between the unions and the county council are continuing in a bid to identify key job which will be exempt from strike action. “This is a national dispute which is up to the Government to resolve,” said Derbyshire County Council Leader John Williams. “We’re very grateful that we can work with the unions locally to make sure that services to older and vulnerable people will be maintained.” The dispute is centred on proposed increases to the local government pension scheme retirement age. Currently employees with 25 years or more service can retire at 60 with no loss of benefits. Under the proposals employees can still retire at 60 but will have their income reduced. “We have every sympathy with our employees who are rightly concerned at the proposed changes to their pensions – particularly the increase in retirement age,” added Councillor Williams. “We also agree that local government workers should be treated the same as their public sector colleagues in health, education and the civil service. “But we also know that there is a shortfall in our pension fund which we can’t ask council tax payers to fund. Giving employees the option of paying more into the scheme may be a way of resolving the dispute. (Ref: JT.109.06) |
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| 16 March 2006 | Derbyshire schools funding confirmed |
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Education spending in Derbyshire is to rise by more than £36.5 million over the next two years, it has been confirmed. Derbyshire County Council currently spends £3,221 per pupil and has an overall schools budget of around £357 million. Funding for 2006/07 will rise to £3,429 per pupil – a 6.45 per cent increase. The county council will receive £376 million – an increase of almost £19 million. In 2007/2008 funding is expected to rise to £3,648 per pupil – a 6.4 per cent increase. It is estimated that will see overall funding rise to £394 million – a further increase of almost £18 million. The county council's grant is £4 million less than that announced by the Department for Education and Skills (DfES) in December. This is because the decline in pupil numbers in Derbyshire is by around 500 more pupils than the DfES had originally predicted. The Government cash includes funding for a series of specific issues in schools. Derbyshire County Council will get £5.12 million in grants in 2006/07 and an estimated £5.18 million in 2007/2008. These will be spent on:
Councillor Alan Charles, the county council’s cabinet member for school planning and support, said: “The provisional settlements announced in December have now been updated to reflect actual pupil numbers. While it means we’ll get a lower increase than expected, schools will still get more money and the overall increase in funding continues the pattern in Derbyshire over recent years. “This is the first time that we have had to set multi-year budgets. While it has certainly been a challenge, it means schools can plan with greater certainty because they know their budgets more than one year in advance." After meeting inflation costs, the increase in grant will fund other pressures in 2006/07 including:
Once these costs have been met, it will leave an extra £3.6 million for schools in 2006/07. Of this, £2.048 million will go to nursery and primary schools, £1.365 million to secondary schools and £215,000 for special schools. Schools will get an extra £4.5 million in 2007/08. Once special schools have received their share – £230,000 – two-thirds of the growth will go to nursery and primary schools. This will mean they get an extra £2.862 million, with £1.431 million going to secondary schools. Councillor Charles said: "We’ve consulted widely with schools and the Schools Forum about how we spend this money. Although we continue to face significant budget pressures, there will be extra cash pumped into Derbyshire schools, which can only be good news for children and parents." |
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| 14 March 2006 | Free legal advice for Derbyshire consumers |
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People in need of consumer advice can get free help from Derbyshire County Council libraries in Alfreton and Chesterfield. The county council’s own consumer watchdogs will be visiting the libraries to give free face-to-face legal advice to visitors on consumer issues. One-to-one sessions with trading standards officers will be held in private and appointments can be booked through the library. All information discussed will be treated confidentially. Consumer advice sessions will be held at Chesterfield Library on:
Consumer advice sessions will be held at Alfreton Library on:
These outreach sessions build on the one-to-one consumer advice already provided by the county council at its trading standards base in Matlock. Councillor Joyce Sanders, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for community safety services said: “These one-to-one sessions have proved very popular since we launched them in at the beginning of the year and mean that even more people can benefit from our consumer advisors’ expert advice. To book an appointment contact Chesterfield Library on 01246 209292 or Alfreton Library on 01773 833199. To speak to a professional trained consumer advisor over the phone, contact the Consumer Direct line on 08454 04 05 06 (charged at the local rate), open between 8am and 6.30pm Monday to Friday and between 9am and 1pm on Saturdays. The service is also available online at www.consumerdirect.gov.uk (opens in a new window). (Ref: SS.105.06) |
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| 14 March 2006 | You're helping us get our priorities right |
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Suggestions, ideas and concerns raised by Derbyshire residents are being used to guide priorities for the county over the next three years. Derbyshire County Council has asked thousands of residents for their views on a wide range of issues over the past year on behalf of Derbyshire Partnership Forum. Responses from questionnaires, interviews and focus groups have now been brought together to shape the council’s priorities and guide how it will work with partner organisations from now to 2009. A prize-draw competition organised to encourage residents to have their say was won by Sandiacre resident Deborah Gabbitas who nominated Treetops Hospice as the community group she would like to receive the £500 prize. Mum-of-two Mrs Gabbitas (44) said: “I entered the competition because I think it’s important to speak up about what you feel is important in your community and ensure facilities are available to the people who need them. It’s up to us all to take responsibility. “I nominated Treetops because I know people who’ve used the hospice and appreciate the vital contribution it makes to the community.” County council leader Councillor John Williams, who chairs Derbyshire Partnership Forum, said: “We’re committed to listening to local people and asking them what’s important to them to ensure their priorities are our priorities. “We’ve consulted with as many residents as possible over the past 12 months and have very much welcomed the comments we’ve received which have helped us check we’re on the right track. “These plans affect everyone so we’re also working closely with borough and district councils, the police, business people, health representatives and community groups to make the county a better place to live, work and visit.” Treetops Hospice, in Risley near Long Eaton, is an independent hospice providing palliative care to adults with life-limiting illnesses. It has just launched its £2m ‘Ripple Appeal’ to extend the hospice with a new purpose-built care and education centre. Appeal director Samantha Kitch said: “We’re delighted with the donation which will go towards our new appeal. It’s particularly appropriate that it’s resulted from a competition to encourage residents to have their say about what they feel is important in their community.” If you would like to make comments on the draft Derbyshire Community Strategy 2006-2009 Call Derbyshire on 08 456 058 058. COMMUNITY COMES FIRST: Derbyshire County Council chair Councillor Walter Burrows and competition winner Deborah Gabbitas (right) take a look at a model of the new extension planned for Treetops Hospice and hand the £500 prize to patients Maria Durham and Mal Raines. (Ref: LT.106.06)
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| 14 March 2006 | Conference to help protect children |
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More than 200 professionals attended the first conference run by a new body set up to protect children in Derbyshire from abuse and neglect. The Derbyshire Safeguarding Children Board (DSCB) consists of Derbyshire County Council, the police, health trusts, child and family court advisory and support services, Derbyshire Probation Service, district and borough councils, Connexions and youth offending teams. The board was set up to introduce changes to the way children are protected required by the Government in the aftermath of the tragic death of Victoria Climbie. It has three main aims. They are to:
The DSCB held its first conference in Swanwick to explain how the new body will work. Delegates were also able to attend 17 workshops looking at different areas of work to protect children from harm, including sessions on domestic abuse, psychological trauma and family group meetings. Councillor Anne Western, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, said: “The Victoria Climbie case in London highlighted how crucial it is for different agencies to work together to protect children from harm or neglect. “The conference gave child protection staff the opportunity to meet together to discuss the common issues we face and how we plan to tackle them in Derbyshire. “Events like this will develop the necessary links between all the organisations represented on the board.” The Derbyshire Safeguarding Children Board replaces the area child protection committee. The board has powers under the Children Act 2004 to ensure everything is being done to protect children in Derbyshire from harm, abuse or neglect. Working to protect children…Councillor Anne Western, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for children’s services (left), and Jessica Lee, of The Children’s Society, who both made presentations to the first Derbyshire Safeguarding Children Board conference. |
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| 14 March 2006 | Ashbourne teenagers urged to shape drop-in sessions |
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Teenagers in Ashbourne have a chance to help shape weekly café-style drop-in sessions for 13 to 19-year-olds set to be launched by Derbyshire County Council. Starting on 20 March, they take place at the Cornerstone Café, Church Street, Ashbourne, each Monday during term-time from 4.30pm to 6.30pm. The after-school drop-ins will be hosted by county council youth workers and aim to provide local youngsters with a safe place to meet and socialise. Refreshments including hot and cold drinks will be available. Teenagers who attend will be consulted about the types of activities they would like it to provide – starting with the summer term-time programme – and urged to help run the project. They will also be encouraged to further their personal and social development by taking part in Peak Awards and Youthtrain opportunities. Peak Awards aim to help young people gain confidence and independence while offering them the opportunity to try new pursuits and hobbies. Youthtrain rewards young people for the skills and knowledge they gain through their involvement in county council-run youth service projects and clubs in the community. It leads to qualifications that are recognised by employers. The county council’s cabinet member for cultural and community services Councillor Bob Janes said: “The aim of the project is to provide local teenagers with a place to socialise while giving them opportunities to further their personal development. But first we need them to tell us about the kind of activities they want to take part in and what sort of project this should be. “Then we’ll do our best to make sure the sessions meet their expectations and respond to their needs.” Teenagers attending the sessions can enter a free general knowledge prize draw, with three £10 music vouchers up for grabs. And they will be able to quiz the Derbyshire Dales candidates for this year’s Big Vote – a forum set up by the county council in 2000 to give young people a greater voice in the democratic process – when they visit the drop-in on 27 March to outline their manifestos. Teenagers or parents wanting further information about the drop-in sessions should call Caroline Butcher, district youth worker, on 01629 585492. (Ref: RS. 104.06) |
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| 10 March 2006 | A way forward in easing parking problems |
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Proposals to help ease Matlock’s parking problems will go on display at the beginning of next month. Derbyshire County Council has been consulting with local people to find out what they think about a range of solutions to the current on-street parking problem. More than 500 questionnaires were delivered and residents showed a lot of interest in an exhibition held at County Hall. The county council will now carry out the following:
A suggestion to introduce paid for residents' parking had to be shelved due to lack of support. Out of the 500 questionnaires delivered 217 were returned – 158 agreed with the principle of a scheme but only 71 residents said they would be prepared to pay at a cost of £26 a year for the first permit and £50 for any further permits. Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for sustainable communities Councillor Brian Lucas said: “These suggestions have come out of consultation and discussions with the residents of Matlock. “We will be looking at how the county council can ease the problem through investigating the possibilities of more parking and encouraging car sharing, cycling to work etc. Unfortunately lack of support means we will not be able to use these measures in conjunction with a residents’ paid for parking scheme. “But we hope these recommendations will go some way towards helping the current situation for Matlock residents.” The full proposals will be on display in the foyer of County Hall from Monday 3 until Wednesday 5 April from 8.30am - 6pm. Residents will be able to ask officers about the suggestions and make written comments. (REF: SM.91.06) |
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| 10 March 2006 | All aboard for free bus travel in Derbyshire |
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Derbyshire Gold Card holders are to get FREE bus travel countywide from next month thanks to a groundbreaking deal between Derbyshire County Council, the city, district and borough councils and local bus companies. (Ref: CC.102.06) |
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| 10 March 2006 | New road helps preserve a piece of history |
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A plaque to mark the opening of a diversion road around the most northerly cave art site known in the world has been unveiled. Derbyshire County Council held an official ceremony with representatives from the companies involved in the £1.2m scheme to replace a section of the B6042 at Creswell Crags with a new stretch of road. The new road will better protect the Ice Age cave system by diverting traffic further away as well as giving access to the site. The road was funded by Derbyshire County Council and Lafarge Aggregates Ltd on land dedicated by Welbeck Estates. Also involved in the project were Creswell Heritage Trust, East Midlands Development Agency, Bardon Construction and Scott Wilson consultants. The old road through the crags will eventually be taken up and turned into a bridleway which will give walkers, cyclists and riders access to the site. Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for sustainable communities, Councillor Brian Lucas, said: “This road is so much more than an improvement in highways infrastructure. The hard work and dedication of so many people has meant this ancient site will be opened up and protected for generations to come.” Dr Edward Llewellyn-Jones, chairman of Creswell Heritage Trust, said: “It is fantastic that the tranquillity of the gorge has now been restored which will help the 35,000 visitors who come to the site each year to appreciate its special Ice Age qualities.” Jon Humble, regional English Heritage inspector of ancient monuments, said: “This is an achievement Derbyshire can be truly proud of.” |
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| 10 March 2006 | All Aboard the Bus to Chatsworth |
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Visiting one of Derbyshire’s most famous attractions will be even easier with a new transport guide available from the end of the month.
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| 10 March 2006 | Top facilities open at Alfreton and Ripley libraries |
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State-of-the-art learning and conference rooms equipped with the latest computer technology are open for business in two Derbyshire libraries. (Ref: AJ.101.06) |
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| 09 March 2006 | Melbourne man sentenced for selling fake discs |
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A Melbourne man has been sentenced to six months in jail for selling fake DVDs and computer games over the internet. Mark Wood, 41, of Woodlands Way, Melbourne, Derby faced 6 charges at Derby Magistrates’ Court today (Thursday 9 March) following investigations carried out by Derbyshire County Council’s trading standards team. In summer 2004 trading standards received information alleging Wood was selling fake computer game CDs on the internet. Working with ELSPA (the European Leisure Software Publishers Association – a trade association for the computer games industry) the authority ordered a copy of the popular computer game Doom 3 from the website www.replica-ones.biz (opens in a new window). The game cost £5 and was delivered with a return address label stating Wood’s home address. Following an inspection of the disc, ELSPA confirmed it was a counterfeit copy. Police and trading standard officers searched Wood’s home on 9 March 2005 and seized 604 games CDs, 357 DVDs and two computers. Wood pleaded guilty to the charges of selling counterfeit goods under the Trade Marks Act 1994 and the Copyright Designs and Patents Act 1988. Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for community safety services Councillor Joyce Sanders said:” This case sends out a clear message to anyone who is attempting to sell fake CDs and DVDs. “Not only will they be punished and land themselves a criminal record, they also risk losing the discs and the computers they use to copy them. “We’re determined to do everything we can to stop counterfeit goods from being sold in Derbyshire to protect the public from poor quality copies and also ensure fair competition for reputable traders who market genuine products. Those who choose to break the law have been warned.” (Ref: SS.99.06) |
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| 09 March 2006 | Court action for Sheffield man selling fake discs |
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A Sheffield man has been ordered to carry out work in the community for 175 hours after he was caught selling fake DVDs at a market in Derbyshire. David Andrew Leigh (22) of 17 Dyke Vale Road, Hackenthorpe, Sheffield faced six charges at Chesterfield Magistrates’ Court today (Wednesday 8 March) following investigations carried out by Derbyshire County Council’s trading standards team. Last July trading standards received information that fake DVDs were being sold at Tansley market, near Matlock. When interviewed, Leigh said he had bought the goods in bulk from a man in Sheffield and knew it was illegal to sell fake discs. Leigh pleaded guilty to the charges of selling counterfeit goods and was ordered to pay £490 prosecution costs as well carrying out the community punishment order within one year. The District Judge also ordered that all the 397 seized discs should be destroyed. Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for community safety services Councillor Joyce Sanders said: ”This case sends out a clear message to anyone who is attempting to sell fake CDs and DVDs. “Not only will they be punished and land themselves a criminal record, they also risk losing the discs and any cash thought to be profits from these illegal sales. “We’re determined to do everything we can to stop counterfeit goods from being sold in Derbyshire to protect the public from poor quality copies and also ensure fair competition for reputable traders who market genuine products. Those who choose to break the law have been warned.” (Ref: SS.100.06) |
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| 09 March 2006 | Can you give a little time to become a short-break carer? |
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People are being sought to provide a regular short break to children with disabilities and give their families a much-needed rest. Derbyshire County Council has teamed up with national charity Shared Care Network to find short-break carers to look after a disabled child in their home on a regular basis. This can range from a few hours a week to a weekend a month, giving children the chance to gain some independence and meet new people while their parents get a break from their normal routine. People are also needed to provide care for longer periods, possibly for several weeks at a time. The authority is looking for carers who can involve the children in ordinary activities such as going to the park, playing games, going for walks or shopping. People who are in couples or single, young or old, working, unemployed or retired can all apply to become a short break carer and they do not have to have children of their own. No experience is needed as carers receive training, although awareness of issues affecting disabled children would be an advantage. They also receive support and allowances to help them take on this rewarding and challenging role. The council hopes that joining forces with the charity which represents family-based short breaks will encourage more people to come forward. Councillor Anne Western, the county council’s cabinet member for children’s services, said: "As well as looking to recruit carers who can provide short breaks, we also need people who are prepared to take on longer-term placements. This could be for situations where a child’s parent is in hospital or there are family problems. “We’d particularly like to hear from anyone who’s willing to care for children with Autism and Asperger’s syndrome plus wheelchair users, for whom we currently have a shortage of carers. “Short breaks help children with disabilities make new friends and enjoy new experiences while giving their parents a break from caring. "Although the assessment process can take time because of the need for us to check people’s suitability, being a short break carer can be enormously rewarding for those willing to look after a child.” The drive will coincide with ‘Share the Care Week’ – a national awareness-raising campaign which runs from Monday 20 March to Sunday 26 March. The theme of this year’s campaign is ‘Give a little time – Make a BIG difference’, aimed at encouraging people of all ages and backgrounds to become short break carers while highlighting how they can help disabled children take part in ordinary social and leisure activities. Candy Smith, chief executive of Shared Care Network, said: “We urgently need more short-break carers to give disabled children the chance to take part in the ordinary activities that non-disabled children take for granted. Using leisure facilities, visiting and playing with friends are a normal part of childhood. These things are more of a challenge for disabled children. Carers can give these children a break and help them join in.” For more information about becoming a short break carer Call Derbyshire on 08 456 058 058 from 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 9.30am to 4pm on Saturdays.
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| 09 March 2006 | School extension is in a class of its own |
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Pupils and staff at Renishaw Primary School have celebrated the unveiling of a £295,000 extension. Two new classrooms have been built to cope with an expected increase in its pupil numbers brought about by a major new housing development under way on the site of the former Renishaw Ironworks. The classrooms – which feature electrically-operated ceiling windows that open at the flick of a switch to aid ventilation – include a link to the main school building. They have replaced a former terrapin classroom dating back to the 1960s. Building work started in May 2005 and was completed in October. The school took immediate advantage of the extra space by moving existing pupils into the new classrooms. The school contributed £31,000 towards the building costs, with £74,000 coming from the planning agreement for the housing development. The rest of the funding came from the county council. Now that’s class…Pupils Lauren Bellamy (10) from Barlborough and Kieran McCarthy (nine) from Renishaw join vice-chair of governors and former pupil Kath Gardner and county council chair Councillor Walter Burrows in unveiling the new classrooms. |
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| 09 March 2006 | Water is theme of new exhibition |
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A collection of paintings by artist Charlotte Simpson will be on display at Derbyshire County Council’s Buxton Museum and Art Gallery from March 25. Her paintings, created by adding layers of oils on to a textured base, are based on the theme of water which is reflected in the title Äquula meaning ‘little water’. This technique creates depth and reflects light in the images of seascapes and scenes of Derbyshire which focus on the movement of water from stormy seas to the gentle flow of a river. Although Charlotte, who is from Buxton, is studying interior design at the University of Lincoln, she enjoys painting and says it is her passion. The exhibition will be previewed on Friday 24 March at 7pm and visitors to the museum will get the chance to meet Charlotte at the venue on Saturday 8 April and Wednesday 19 April. She will be available between 2pm and 4pm on both days to talk about the inspiration for her work and to explain her techniques. Her paintings will be on display until 13 May. Councillor Bob Janes, the county council’s cabinet member for cultural and community services, said: “We are delighted to be able to offer local artists the opportunity to showcase their talents and enable their work to be enjoyed by a wider audience.” Entry to Buxton Museum and Art Gallery is free. Visitors can also enjoy an exhibition called ‘Collectors and Collections: inSpire’ featuring images of churches across Derbyshire until 17 May. A series of photographs by Rodg Holden called ‘Single Moments’ will also be on display until 6 May. (Ref: CC.97.06) |
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| 09 March 2006 | Derbyshire businesses get creative grants |
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Small businesses in Derbyshire have been awarded grants as part of a scheme to boost the county’s creative economy. Textile designers, artists and glass painters are among the successful companies to receive £500 from the Derbyshire Arts Partnership, with support from Derbyshire County Council. The Derbyshire Designer Maker Grants offer support to help market and develop the companies with the aim of boosting the creative economy in Derbyshire and Derby city. Five grants have been awarded in the latest round of handouts with money available for a wide range of marketing including photography, new publicity material, advertising and website development. The successful companies are: Dave Griffin Stained Glass Artist, Rowsley, near Matlock. A designer and maker of unique pieces of stained glass, Dave Griffin uses traditional techniques to make door and window panels. His work is endorsed by the British Society of Master Glass Painters. Georgie Harris, Ashford. Specialising in hand-dyed and screen printed textiles, Georgie makes a range of products including scarves, bags, cushions and throws. Her work is currently stocked at Liberty’s and Graham and Green in London. Metalixx, Chesterfield. Stuart Harrison designs and makes unique pieces of furniture, including tables, storage systems and drinks coasters, from stainless steel. He polishes the steel to create images in the metal and has even created contemporary pieces of art. Katarina Lees, Chapel-en-le-Frith. A textile designer and maker, Katarina specialises in hand-woven products, mainly rugs, which can be made to any size, colour, design and material. Christine Waygood, Glossop. Christine makes a range of knitted and felt accessories and furnishings which she sells through her workshop in Glossop and also through design fairs up and down the country. Councillor Bob Janes, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for cultural and community services, said: "We are pleased to be part of this worthwhile project to support and promote Derbyshire’s local talent. "These grants provide a much-needed boost to small creative companies to enable them to expand and develop by funding vital marketing activity." Derbyshire Arts Partnership is made up of Arts Council England (East Midlands), Derbyshire County Council, Derby City Council and the county’s borough and district councils. The Derbyshire Designer Makers Grants are administered by Design Factory, the regional agency for designer makers. For more information contact Helen Parrott on 07768 368376 or email helen.parrott@derbyshire.gov.uk (Ref: CC:96:06) |
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| 09 March 2006 | Oriental comic art hits Heanor |
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Creative types will be able to try their hand at a traditional Japanese artform which is the subject of a one-off course. The manga masterclass is being held at Heanor Library, Ilkeston Road, on Monday 20 March and is aimed at 11 to 17-year-olds who want to find out more about the art form and learn more about the methods behind it. Manga refers to Japanese comics that were influenced by traditional Japanese art, cinema and especially American comics. It is used in the design of graphic novels which are a long-form comic book, usually with lengthy and complex storylines. The masterclass will not only encourage people to try their hand at manga but also introduce them to the library’s graphic novel reading group. People attending the free course, lasting from 3.30pm to 5pm, will be treated to an introduction about manga, its history and popularity in Britain, followed by the creation of an original character with the help of Jin Sun Oh, a runner-up in a national manga competition called `The Rising Stars of Manga’, run by publisher Tokyopop. Representatives from Tokyopop will be at the event to showcase their graphic novels and take part in the event, as well as giving prizes out to participants. The audience will then be given practical tricks and techniques used to create manga and will work with Jin to create their own version of a character. Derbyshire County Council cabinet member for cultural and community services Councillor Bob Janes said: "This is a wonderful opportunity for young people who have an interest in manga to find out more about the art itself and for people who are not familiar with it to try something new." "I am sure it will be very popular and maybe Derbyshire will produce it’s own manga artists in years to come." Anyone who would like to attend the manga masterclass should drop into Heanor Library to pick up a free ticket, telephone Heanor Library on 01773 712482 or email carl.cross@derbyshire.gov.uk (Ref. MC.94.06) |
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| 08 March 2006 | Big Vote candidates take to the hustings |
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More than 100 hustings events are being organised by Derbyshire County Council to give candidates in the Big Vote elections the chance to outline their manifestos to voters. The Big Vote lets young people, aged 11 to 19, vote for the candidates they want to represent them on the Derbyshire Youth Forum. The forum was set up by Derbyshire County Council in 2000 to give young people a greater voice in the democratic process. Two candidates from each district of the county are elected on to the forum and serve a two-year term of office. Hustings events are being organised by the authority’s youth service in each district of the county between now and the last day of voting on 5 April. Some of the bigger events are:
Councillor Bob Janes, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for cultural and community services, said: “All of the events taking place will help young people to be more active in discussing issues that affect their lives. “I hope all the candidates will use these events to get across their ideas and find out the views of other young people about changes they would like to see.” A full list of the 107 Big Vote events around Derbyshire can be found by visiting the b_line website at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/b_line (opens in a new window) A record 72 candidates are standing in the election. Votes can be cast online, by mobile phone text messaging or on paper voting forms which can be posted into ballot boxes in any Derbyshire library. (REF: JF.95.06) |
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| 08 March 2006 | Messages from Mamelodi |
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A performing artist and a student from South Africa are touring schools in an educational arts project run by Derbyshire County Council. Performing artist and director Paepae Mmekwa and student Tshego Masoga are visiting Derbyshire as part of an international twinning agreement with Mamelodi, a township near the capital Pretoria. Paepae is holding workshops with pupils, while Tshego is teaching students African literacy and poetry. The African Artist to Derbyshire Project will involve 35 schools and is designed to help pupils understand other cultures as part of their citizenship classes. The project is funded by the Arts Council. Councillor Dave Wilcox, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for external affairs, said: “This is part of the on-going successful links that have been forged with Mamelodi over recent years. “The project runs until September and will involve hundreds of pupils. We hope that in the future some Derbyshire arts groups can go to South Africa to run similar workshops demonstrating the English culture.” Paepae and Tshego will work with arts group the Babbling Vagabonds to create an African music and dance celebration event in July. Pupils will also produce a film documenting the development of the project. Councillor Alan Charles, cabinet member for school planning and support, said: “We are always keen to encourage cultural links involving schools. These visits give young people a better understanding of the wider world and different cultures.” The pair will have residency sessions at Anthony Gell School in Wirksworth, Wilsthorpe Business and Enterprise College in Long Eaton and Highfields School in Matlock. They will also make day visits to Ilkeston School, Highfield Primary School in Long Eaton, Stubbin Wood School in Langwith Junction, Cloudside Junior School in Sandiacre, Springwell Community School in Staveley, St John’s CE Primary School in Belper, Brimington Manor Infants and Nursery School, Mill Hill School in Ripley, Glebe Junior School in South Normanton, Deincourt Community School in North Wingfield, William Allitt School in Newhall, Friesland School in Sandiacre and Aldercar Community Language College in Langley Mill. They will also visit three schools in Derby. Paepae and Tshego have already visited Anthony Gell School in Wirksworth, Brassington Primary School, Tibshelf Community School, Brigg Infant School in South Normanton, Brackenfield Special School in Long Eaton and Turnditch CE Primary School, near Belper. (REF: JF.93.06)
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| 07 March 2006 | Signs point the way for ramblers |
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Walkers who want to take advantage of the right to roam will find the going a little easier…thanks to some new signs. Since the Countryside and Rights of Way Act was brought into force Derbyshire has been left with several chunks of land classed as open access land outside the Peak District National Park. Members of the public are now free to roam sites around Buxton and Glossop, near the High Peak Trail and to the eastern and southern edges of the Park. But these areas of land have not been clearly marked on the ground until now. Derbyshire County Council – with the help of £1,400 funding from the Countryside Agency – will be signposting land next month which can be reached from the road or other rights of way. Small circular discs with the nationally recognised access symbol will guide walkers across accessible land while other new signs will give information on how to treat the countryside while out walking. For example signs at Bumper Piece above Rowsley – which is an important site for ground nesting birds - will ask people to keep dogs on a short lead during the nesting season from Wednesday 1 March until Monday 31 July. Some of the new sites also have sheep and cattle grazing on the land and dogs need to be kept on a lead at all times near these animals. The restrictions only apply to new access land and not existing rights of way. But dog owners are urged to be aware of the disturbance their dogs can cause to other animals and keep them under close control and on a lead if possible. “The new signs will make this enjoyment even easier by directing walkers to where the open country is and helping them to use the land in a responsible manner.” (REF: SM.92.06) |
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| 07 March 2006 | Test Derbyshire is coming |
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Residents in Derbyshire are being encouraged to take part in a series of fun events across the county which will help them to check their skills in everyday Maths and English. ‘Test Derbyshire’ is a series of events running from Monday 13 to Saturday 18 March 2006. At each event, adults over 16 years will have the chance to check out their everyday Maths and English Skills with a free short mini-test. This fun test only takes around 15 minutes and has multi-choice answers providing a quick indication of where their skills levels are at. Many adults may be surprised at what they already know, but if they find that they could benefit from brushing up on their Maths and English then help will be on hand. Some adults find that brushing up on their Maths and English skills can help them with tasks at work and activities such as helping their children with homework. Every adult who is willing to give it a go and try the mini test will be entered into a prize draw to win a £250 shopping voucher - so there’s nothing to lose and lots to gain. Councillor Alan Charles, Chair of the Derbyshire Learning Partnership said, “Across Derbyshire we are working together to help adults check their Maths and English skills and supporting them to brush up if they need to. Watch out for Test Derbyshire events in your area, or give the helpline a ring on 0800 269 468 to find out what’s on near you.” The programme of events across Derby and Derbyshire is also available online at www.testderbyshire.co.uk (opens in a new window). |
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| 06 March 2006 | Church opens its doors for new post office |
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A date has been set for the opening of a new post office which is setting up in a church. The result of his resignation also meant the property used for the post office was no longer available so the search included the need for a new premises as well as a new person to run the facility. (REF: MC.90.06) |
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| 06 March 2006 | Give us your views on special education |
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A public consultation has begun on a blueprint outlining Derbyshire County Council’s plans for supporting children with special educational needs. It follows a review which has looked at all aspects of the way services are provided to young people with:
Derbyshire County Council is now holding a consultation among Derbyshire residents to get their views about the proposed changes to special education. Councillor Anne Western, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “We last reviewed special education in Derbyshire in 1994 and a lot has changed since then. “We’ve spoken to pupils, parents, teachers and other agencies that provide support to pupils with special educational needs to find out what their needs are. “From this we’ve come up with some new ideas about how to do things in the future. Now we want to hear the views of Derbyshire residents about our ideas and see if they have better ones.” A copy of the consultation will be sent to all residents in the next edition of the county council’s newspaper Insight. It can also be seen on the special education review pages and responses can be made online. Some of the main ideas include:
All comments on the review need to be made by Friday 26 May. A series of public meetings will be held to discuss the plans. They will be at:
(REF: JF.89.06) |
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| 06 March 2006 | Single moments captured on camera |
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A Derbyshire-based photographer is launching his stunning collection of local and distant landscapes at Derbyshire County Council’s museum and art gallery on Saturday 11 March. From seas to cities, from mountains to lichen covered rocks, Rodg Holden, from Glossop, has been capturing landscapes for the past four years and Single Moments reveals some of his best work so far. Featuring some well-known Derbyshire locations such as Padley Gorge and Bray Clough, the exhibition, going on display at Buxton Museum and Art Gallery, also displays impressive scenery from the Lake District and Scottish islands as well as some images from countries abroad. In each of his landscapes Rodg has aimed to capture one single moment amidst all the changes around him. He believes that “every place has its moments of glory” and with this exhibition he has tried to capture some of those moments. Visitors to the museum will have the chance to meet Rodg Holden on Saturday 18 March and Saturday 1 April between 2pm and 4pm when he will be available to talk about his work and inspirations. Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for cultural and community services Councillor Bob Janes said: “It is always a pleasure to promote Derbyshire talent in our museum and I am sure Rodg’s dramatic photographs will be very popular with our visitors.” ROCK ON AT MUSEUM FUN DAY Become a science discoverer for the day and learn some fascinating facts about rocks and minerals at Buxton Museum and Art Gallery on Saturday 18 March. People of all ages are invited to come along to the ‘Mineral Madness’ drop-in sessions and take part in some rock-related activities including an experiment to test the hardness of different rocks and a quiz to find out which everyday items, such as toothpaste, contain minerals. The workshops are running as part of National Science Week which celebrates science and its importance to our lives. People will also have the chance to handle some of the museum’s own fascinating mineral collection. The sessions will take place between 11am and 1pm and between 2pm and 4pm. People are advised to book in advance to secure a place by contacting the museum on 01298 24658, but anyone is welcome to drop in on the day for some fun. Buxton Museum and Art Gallery, in Terrace Road, is open to the public free of charge as part of the authority’s commitment to providing access to cultural activities. Museum visitors can also enjoy a collection of church images from Derbyshire and elsewhere called ‘Collectors and Collections: inSpire’; and from Saturday 25 March an exhibition called Äquula – meaning “a little water” – in which design student Charlotte Simpson uses her paintings to explore the theme of water. For more information on any of the exhibitions contact Martha Jasko at Buxton Museum and Art Gallery on 01298 24658. (Ref: SS.71.06) |
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| 06 March 2006 | A new approach to help extended families care for children |
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A new policy is being developed by Derbyshire County Council to make it easier in the future for extended families to care for children who their parents cannot look after. In the past it may have been difficult for close family friends or extended family members – such as grandparents, uncles and aunts – to apply to care for a child in cases where it is no longer appropriate for the child to be with its birth parents. In the future Derbyshire County Council will consider placing such children with extended family members or close family friends first. If that is not appropriate they will make long-term plans to place them with foster carers with a view to possibly being adopted at a later stage. Where a child is placed with extended family members the authority will help them obtain welfare benefits, such as guardian’s allowance, working tax credits and child benefits, at an earlier stage. Where necessary, Derbyshire County Council will provide additional funding to top this up. Councillor Anne Western, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, said: “Over the past five years we have safely reduced the number of children in care from 660 to 510. “Research has shown it is better for children to be placed with their extended families. They face less disruption by being with people they already know and who care about them. “Care proceedings and residence orders can take time which can be disruptive for young people. This new policy should help place children with extended family members much quicker. It will also give extended families the financial assistance they need to make the changes needed to cope with having a child in their house.” Derbyshire County Council is planning to produce information for staff and members of the public explaining the new Kinship Care and Permanence policy and how it will work. (REF: JF.88.06) |
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| 03 March 2006 |