October

An intergenerational project to unite young and old generations in two Derbyshire villages has been hailed a success.

Doe Lea and Bramley Vale residents of all ages have been putting their gardening skills to good use to improve a riverbank area after working together on the Derbyshire County Council initiative called Two Generations.

The scheme was set up last year to help build positive relationships among young and old residents after the area was found to be generating a higher than average number of anti-social behaviour complaints.

After speaking to residents of all ages, the authority’s community safety officers found there was a real division between the older and younger people in the community and this was causing conflicts.

Two Generations was launched to try and tackle the negative perceptions of young and older people towards each other and reduce some of the issues occurring in their villages.

Around 20 volunteers aged between 11-19 and over 55 met over a six month period and together decided on tasks to improve their environment.

Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for community safety services Councillor Joyce Sanders said: “Since we started the intergeneration work last year we have been delighted with the positive responses from young and old residents in the villages and there has been a significant reduction in the number of calls reporting anti-social behaviour.

“We hope the improved riverbank will be a place for all ages to enjoy together and that bridges between the generations will continue to grow.”

The volunteers have now set up their own group called Doe Lea Valley Community Partnership which is open to all ages and will continue to work on local environmental projects.

If anyone living in this area would like to volunteer and get involved in the project contact Harry or Gill Perkins on 01246 851328.

TEAM WORK: Volunteers Harry Perkins, 60, and Sarah-Mae Morris, 8, from Doe Lea and Anthony King, 10, from Hasland, are joined by Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for community safety services Councillor Joyce Sanders as they set to work on their riverbank to make it a nicer area for residents to enjoy.

(Ref: SS.449.06)

Rundown rural buildings could be given a new lease of life thanks to a grant scheme which will run in 2007 for a third year.  

Derbyshire County Council has again teamed up with the Derby and Derbyshire Economic Partnership (DDEP) Rural Action Zone to run the Rural Redundant Buildings Grant scheme.  

The scheme is being managed by the county council on behalf of DDEP, with grants up to a maximum of £60,000 being offered to owners of redundant buildings to convert their premises for business use.  

People applying for the grants need to be able to show that their newly restored buildings will be able to provide new business opportunities, particularly workspace, creating new jobs and benefiting the local economy.  

In the 2007 round a grants budget of £100,000 will be available for projects which benefit rural areas in the High Peak and Derbyshire Dales.  

The grants are open to a range of people including owner-occupiers, limited companies, charities and co-operatives.  

Grants of up to 25 per cent of overall costs are available and confirmation will be needed that planning permission has been granted for any work before grants are given out.  

Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for regeneration Councillor Geoff Carlile said: “It is a great shame when buildings fall into disrepair and stand idle when they could be put to such good use.  

“The grant scheme generated a lot of interest last time and I am sure this latest round will attract similar interest, resulting in several redundant buildings being turned around and being used to their full potential.”  

Potential grant applicants with an interest in applying for a grant in 2007 are urged to contact the county council as soon as possible.    

They can get more information about the scheme and a copy of an `expression of interest’ form from the county council’s website or by contacting Derbyshire County Council’s senior economic development officer Sue Douglas on 01629 580000 extension 7244.  

(Ref: MC.447.06)

Talented artists at two local schools are showcasing their work at Buxton Museum and Art Gallery.

The new exhibition, called Artwork 2006, features the best work from GCSE, AS and A-level art students from Buxton Community School and St Thomas More Catholic School in the town.

It runs at the Derbyshire County Council art gallery and museum from Saturday, November 11 to Saturday, January 6. Admission is free.

Every year the high-quality work of art students at both schools is displayed at the gallery, giving visitors an opportunity to see their talented creations.

The work is in two and three dimensions and reflects the energy and enthusiasm they have for their subjects. Daring sculptures, amazing perspectives, bold portraits and fine drawing show a high level of competence in a range of media.

A preview of the exhibition is being held at the gallery on Friday, November 10 at 7pm.

Councillor Bob Janes, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for cultural and community services, said he was pleased the gallery could again showcase the work of talented local youngsters.

“These young people are fantastically talented and have produced some magnificent work,” he said.

“I hope people will take the opportunity to call in at the museum and art gallery to see what the young artists have produced. Who knows, there may be the next Hockney or Hirst among them.”

Buxton Museum and Art Gallery is on Terrace Road and is open Tuesday to Friday, 9.30am-5.30pm and on Saturdays 9.30am-5pm.  Two other exhibitions are also on display in the coming weeks.

Visitors can see Helena Ben-Zenou’s Industrial Relations until Saturday, December 2. Helena’s large-scale paintings explore the architectural landscapes and legacies of industrial Derbyshire and feature rural quarries and mines as well as the urban architecture of Rolls Royce.

From Saturday, December 9, mixed-media artist Ingrid Karlsson-Kemp, who uses rich, colourful textiles in her work, has an exhibition at the gallery. Inspired by storytelling, Ingrid’s work also reflects her Swedish roots.

Admission to the museum and art  gallery is free. For more information contact Martha Jasko on 01298 24658. 

 (AJ. 448.06)
     

International relations have been given a boost following a visit to Derbyshire by senior officials from Japan. 

Managing director for the Council for Local Authorities for International Relations (CLAIR) Takahiko Horimura and deputy director of CLAIR London Toyosaburo Koyama met Derbyshire County Council chief executive Nick Hodgson, county council cabinet member for external affairs Councillor Dave Wilcox, chief executive of South Derbyshire District Council Frank McArdle and Councillor Joan Dixon at County Hall, Matlock, last week (26 October). 

The delegation visited Derbyshire County Council’s headquarters to discuss the current level of international communication and engagement that the county has with Japanese local authorities and other communities. 

Japanese local government is keen to share best practice and learn about the best local authorities across the world.   

Many intern programmes throughout Japan involve Derbyshire graduates and the county council has agreed to host further visits from Japan so that their representatives can discover how highly-rated authorities operate and work with partners to achieve excellence. 

Derbyshire has had a strong connection with Toyota City in Japan since the county council helped to secure the siting of the Toyota car plant at Burnaston and to strengthen the relationship a Twinning Charter was signed between Toyota City and Derbyshire in 1998. 

After the meeting the group visited Caudwell’s Mill in Rowsley where they were given a guided tour and got a taste of the local history. 

Councillor Wilcox said: “Derbyshire boasts a strong connection with Toyota City in Japan and is keen to sustain and develop the link which has brought not only a significant number of jobs and business to the county but has also led to many grass roots level exchanges and cultural diversity. 

“The meeting was very useful and informative and our visitors were given a real taste of Derbyshire during their visit.” 

The dangers of drugs will be highlighted by a new touring exhibition launched by Derbyshire County Council.

Called Hooked, the display has been developed by the authority with help from Derbyshire Constabulary and Derbyshire Drug and Alcohol Team.

It features a display of confiscated illegal drugs equipment including weights and scales. It also features legal drugs and the dangers these can pose as well.  

It is the fourth in a series of travelling exhibitions which will visit community venues across the county.

The exhibition has been put together by the county council which took over responsibility for the Derbyshire Police Collections in 2004.

As well as exhibits there will also be a range of leaflets available containing information and advice for the public.

The exhibition will be launched at Ilkeston Library in Market Place on Thursday 9 November from 1.30pm. 

At 2.30pm a group of students from Bennerley School in Ilkeston will be performing a play at the library about how issues of drugs can affect teenagers.

Hooked will be on display at Ilkeston Library until 15 January before travelling to Chapel Library in the High Peak.

Councillor Bob Janes, the county council’s cabinet member for cultural and community services, said: “This exhibition aims to challenge people’s perception of drugs by highlighting the dangers of illegal and legal substances.

“As well as containing exhibits linked to drugs and drug-taking there will also be a range of information and advice available to the public.”

The first exhibition created by the county council was called Motor-vated and included items relating to policing Derbyshire’s roads.

In April the authority launched Kopy Kats, a collection of fake branded goods with Crime Detectives launched in June exploring how police have used science to solve crimes over the last 80 years.

 (CC.445.06)

Foster carers who dedicate themselves to providing loving homes for children who are looked after by Derbyshire County Council are to be honoured.

Carers with ten years service or more with the authority will be invited to attend the Foster Carers’ Long Service Awards at County Hall, Matlock on Friday 3 November.

Foster parents from across the county will attend the ceremony, representing a variety of types of fostering services. Councillor Walter Burrows, chair of Derbyshire County Council will officially open the evening, where tributes will also be paid by chief executive Nick Hodgson and Bruce Buckley, director for children’s services.

The 27 foster carers who have achieved their long service with the county council this year have provided a range of fostering services, such as offering respite care for children with disabilities and providing emergency care placements at short notice.

Carers will be rewarded for their continuing efforts with a three-course meal, followed by a presentation of long-service certificates and £30 gift vouchers each.

Councillor Anne Western, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, said: "Our foster carers are an incredible asset to the county because they encourage, support and love children who, for a variety of reasons, are unable to live with their families.

“Through the dedication and effort of these extraordinary people the authority is able to make sure children do not miss out on having a loving home when circumstances place them in our care.

“This will be the fourth time we have hosted this annual event to demonstrate our immense gratitude by thanking our foster carers personally for their amazing contribution.

 “If it were not for them we would not be able to give our children and young people the good start in life that they deserve.

“It is our honour to be able to pay tribute to these wonderful people and celebrate their involvement.” 

Anyone interested in finding out more about fostering can call Derbyshire County Council’s 24-hour fostering helpline on 01629 77 22 11, visit the fostering section of our website www.derbyshire.gov.uk/fostering (opens in a new window) or email fostering@derbyshire.gov.uk.

Foster carers who have achieved long service include (* denotes those who will be unable to attend the ceremony):

• Michael and Caroline Boam Flagg, Buxton
• Michael and Mandy Fentem Matlock
• Dorothy and Graham Plant Mansfield 
• Tracie and Mick Wilson Chesterfield
• Dot and Colin Barker Ashbourne
• Jackie Griffiths Ripley
• Mark and Heather Crossley Chesterfield *
• Dave and Angela Fookes Chesterfield
• Mary Slinn and Michael Hardman Chesterfield
• Karen Bradley and Paul Hannan Matlock
• Elaine and Simon Pauk Chesterfield 
• John Bailey Langley Mill *
• Mary and David Doyle Derby *
• June Clutton Chesterfield *
• Tracy and Gary Parker Jordanthorpe, Sheffield

 (REF: FW.443.06)

The official opening of a new extension has been celebrated by pupils, staff and special guests at South Darley CE (Controlled) Primary School.

Work to build a mezzanine floor provided space for two new offices, an area for small group or special educational needs teaching to take place and a remodelled staff room.

Building began in July and continued throughout the summer holidays. It was completed at the beginning of September so there would be minimum disruption to pupils and teachers.

The £57,280 project, funded through the school’s budget, was designed to make the most of the available space on the site at Cross Green, Darley Bridge.

At the same time that the extension work was being carried out Derbyshire County Council pumped £49,600 into renewing the heating system at the school. The school contributed £10,211 towards this work.

Councillor Alan Charles, cabinet member for school planning and support, attended the official opening of the new extension, which was performed by the Bishop of Derby, the Right Reverend Dr Alastair Redfern.

Councillor Charles said: “These new facilities are ideally suited to supporting the school’s needs and making sure students can reach their potential.

“By effectively using the existing space available, teachers can now use the small group area to focus on specific aspects of learning and help pupils benefit from concentrated support.

“I’m sure this extension will prove highly valuable to staff and students for years to come.”

A NEW CHAPTER: (left to right) Councillor Alan Charles, cabinet member for school planning and support, with pupils Evie Kirk (eight), Sam Crapper (seven), Nancy Tracey (five).

(REF: FW.444.06)

A worrying 76 per cent of child car seats checked by Derbyshire County Council failed safety tests.

Of 165 seats checked following the introduction of new safety laws last month, 70 per cent had problems which could be rectified such as incorrect fitting but six per cent were deemed completely unsuitable - either for the car or child.

Free checks carried out by an expert car seat fitter were held in supermarket car parks across the county in Swadlincote, Chesterfield, Ilkeston, Buxton and Long Eaton.

Faults identified included:

• 10 seats unsuitable for the vehicle or child
• 66 seats were too loose
• 64 seats fitted incorrectly
• 2 seats fitted in a seat with an airbag
• 2 seats with the seatbelt height or harness in the wrong position  

The most common fault found on baby seats and child seats was that the seat was too loose. For booster seats and cushions, the main problem was that they were not fastened in properly.

The county council is also urging parents not to use second hand car seats which can be dangerous if the seat’s history is not known.

If a second-hand seat has been involved in a car accident there may be hidden damage. Instructions on how to fit seats which have been used before may also have been lost and the person fitting it is unlikely to have been advised on whether it is suitable for either the child or the type of car.

Of 12 second hand seats checked, seven failed the initial inspection and a further four were deemed completely unsuitable.

Councillor Joyce Sanders, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for community safety services, said: “These results are worrying. For their own safety, it is vital that children are strapped into a seat which is fitted correctly, appropriate for their age and height and the vehicle they’re travelling in.

“Failure to do so could result in them being seriously injured or even killed in the event of an accident.”

She added: “We all want our children to be safe so the best advice is to go to a store which offers a professional child car seat fitting service to ensure you get the best protection for your child.
“Second-hand seats and hand-me-downs might seem like a cheaper option but it’s not worth putting your child at risk if the seat doesn’t fit properly.”

Under new Government laws, every child up to 12-years old (or 135cm tall – whichever comes first) must use the correct child restraint. 

This means using either a car seat, booster seat or booster cushion when they are travelling in a car or goods vehicle. 

Children are only allowed to travel in the back of a car using an adult belt if:

• They are aged 12 or older or taller than 135cm
• They are in a taxi – if the right seat is not available
• They are travelling a short distance on unexpected journeys such as an emergency but only where the right seat is not available
• There are already two children in child seats in the back of the car making it impossible to fit a third.  

It is now also illegal to use rear facing baby seats where there is a front air bag.

For more information or advice Call Derbyshire on 08456 058 058, email roadsafety@derbyshire.gov.uk or visit the Road Safety section of our website www.derbyshire.gov.uk/roadsafety (opens in a new window)

(REF: JM.442.06)

Two infant schools in Pinxton have decided to form a federation which will see them join forces to provide an improved service for pupils.

The governing bodies of John King Infant School and Longwood Community Infant School have decided to create the federation, under the banner of the Pinxton Village Infant Schools, from 1 September 2007.

It follows a public consultation where the idea got the support of parents, teachers, governors, Derbyshire County Council and residents in Pinxton.

The federation will: 

• See both schools share a single headteacher and governing body
• Ensure all children share similar opportunities and experiences
• Make it easier for pupils when moving up to junior school
• Provide more opportunities for teachers to develop expertise in particular subjects
• Pool their separate budgets to gain economies of scale when buying materials such as books
• Continue to run separately but with a high degree of collaboration and more flexible use of accommodation
  

Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for school planning and support, said: “This is a move that makes a lot of sense and one that we fully support.

“It allows them to keep their separate traditions while providing a way of improving the management and running of both schools.

“The money saved by pooling budgets will enable the headteacher and governing body to put extra funding into improving the quality of education on offer to pupils.”

Longwood Community Infant School, in Wharf Road, currently has an acting headteacher and 50 pupils. John King Infant School, in Church Street West, has a permanent headteacher and 140 pupils.

Margaret Ward, headteacher of John King Infant School, has been appointed to lead both schools when the federation is set up.

She said: “This is an exciting opportunity for pupils and parents in Pinxton. The two schools have always worked closely together so this is a natural progression that allows us to build on the good practice that exists within both schools.

“There will be no change to the way either school is funded but it allows us to use the money that we get in a more effective way.”       
  

(REF: JF.441.06)

Author Berlie Doherty joined a Derbyshire County Council run intergenerational project to take part in discussions about her books.

The author has written numerous books for children, teenagers and adults and has also penned plays and an opera. She has won the Carnegie Medal twice for her books Granny Was A Buffer Girl and Dear Nobody.

Berlie visited the Peveril Court Book Group in Ripley which is using her Dear Nobody book as the basis of their discussion group.

The group is made up of pupils from Mill Hill School in Ripley and older people from the town’s Peveril sheltered housing complex.

It is one of more than 10 projects that aim to bring together the two generations on a joint project where they can learn from each other.

Berlie spoke to the group about her motivation for writing the book and her writing style.

Another author – Stephen Booth – has visited two similar intergenerational projects to talk about his crime books that are set in the Derbyshire countryside.

He visited the Castle Court Book Group held in Castle Gresley and a project based at the Gales Residential Home in Holmewood. Both these groups are made up of a mix of young and older people.

Councillor Dave Allen, cabinet member for services for older people and vulnerable adults, said: “The number of projects in Derbyshire involving young people and older adults is growing all the time.

“Everywhere they are being set up they are providing opportunities to break down some of the barriers between young and older people by giving them the opportunity to work together.

“By meeting Berlie and Stephen the members of the book groups have been able to talk about how authors get their inspiration and the process of writing a book. Hopefully this will help them to develop their own writing styles and skills.”

All the book groups form part of work towards the Derbyshire Intergenerational Strategy for Schools Project.   The aim of all the schemes is to promote greater understanding between the two age groups and help both to learn new things from each other. It is hoped the idea can be rolled out to involve all Derbyshire schools over time.

Reading between the lines… Author Berlie Doherty discusses her book with Peveril Court Book Group members Frank Pilgrim and Ashleigh Gascoyne, 14.

(REF:JF.440.06)

A poster campaign has been launched to raise awareness among parents about the dangers that shaking their baby can have.

The ‘Don’t Shake the Baby’ initiative is being run by the Derbyshire Safeguarding Children Board – a partnership made up of Derbyshire County Council, health trusts, Derbyshire Police, Connexions, district and borough councils and the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (CAFCASS).

In Derbyshire there have been four deaths and two cases of life threatening injuries between 2000 and 2005 caused by babies being shaken. The campaign aims to raise awareness of where parents can turn to for help.

Councillor Anne Western, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, said: “It might seem like obvious advice that shaking a baby can cause serious injury or even death.

“But looking after a baby is a difficult job and there are times where it can be become overwhelming for anybody so this campaign aims to make parents aware of the help that is available for them so they don’t resort to shaking a baby.”

The posters which will support these measures will be put up in GPs, health centres, police stations, hospitals.
Any parents needing help are asked to contact: 

• Their GP
• Their midwife or health visitor 
• Parentline on 0808 800 2222 
• Cry-sis on 08451 228669

Parents who need to know further details of where to go for advice can contact Call Derbyshire on 08456 058 058. The contact centre is open between 8am and 8pm on weekdays and 9.30am to 4pm on Saturdays.

Councillor Western said: “If this campaign stops even one baby being injured or killed then it will be worth it.”

(REF: JF.439.06)

The county’s finest eateries will be feeling the heat as the shortlist for the fifth Derbyshire Food and Drink Awards is announced.

Application forms were sent out in August to food and drink establishments across the county and a shortlist for the four categories has been drawn up.

Each business will now be visited by a mystery customer before the winners and a highly commended in each category are announced at a dinner on Monday 13 November.

The awards are organised by Derbyshire County Council and judged by an independent panel of food specialists including an AA inspector and a Quality in Tourism assessor.

Establishments are judged on a number of criteria including the quality of food and drink, use of county produce and acknowledgement of it on its menus as well as customer service.

The shortlisted entries for each category are:

Restaurant of the Year (sponsor – Taste Derbyshire publication)

• Buckingham’s Restaurant with One Table - Chesterfield
• Soul – Derby
• The Dining Room – Ashbourne
• The Walnut Club – Hathersage

Restaurant within an Attraction (sponsor – Provencale Kitchens)  

• Bourne’s Restaurant – Denby Pottery
• Carriage House Restaurant – Chatsworth House
• Kedleston Hall, the National Trust – Derby
• YHA – Hartington

Tea Room/Coffee House of the Year (sponsor – Denby Pottery)

• Derby Cathedral Centre – Derby
• No 6 The Square – Buxton
• Stocks Café Bistro – Chapel-en-le-Frith
• The Chatsworth Farm Shop – Chatsworth

Bistro/Pub of the Year (sponsor – Royal Crown Derby)

• Coach and Horses Inn – Fenny Bentley
• The Bluebell Inn and Restaurant – Tissington
• The Chequers Inn, Froggatt Edge, Calver
• The Crown Inn – Marston Montgomery, Ashbourne

The awards dinner is being held in County Hall, Matlock and as well as winning the accolade, all winners will receive a plaque to display at their premises, a certificate and a prize from the category sponsors.

Food on the night will be provided by the winners from last year’s bistro category, the Chequers Inn, through its outside catering company Chequers Out.

Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for regeneration Councillor Geoff Carlile said: “Yet again we have had a very high standard of entries and we are going to be really spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting the winners.

“The awards provide a real boost for the county’s food and drink industry as they reward businesses that use local produce and highlight the many and varied high quality eateries around the county catering for a wide range of tastes.”

Councillor Carlile added: “By staging the awards for the fifth year the county council is demonstrating its commitment to supporting local businesses and promoting Derbyshire’s high quality food and drink.”

(Ref: MC.438.06)

Talented Derbyshire filmmakers are to have their work screened at a prestigious young people’s event in the nation’s capital.

Film projects made by 11 young people will be shown at Tate Britain in London on Monday 23 October – during National Care Leavers’ Week – as part of the ‘Futures’ event to celebrate the achievements of young care leavers.

Jointly supported by Tate Britain, A National Voice, The Prince’s Trust, Barnardo’s, National Leaving Care Advisory Service and the Social Care Institute for Excellence, the evening’s entertainment will include a range of performances of dance, drama, poetry and music by care leavers.

Organisations from across the country that work with young people applied for them to take part in the event, which will take place in the main gallery between 7pm and 9pm. About 50 youngsters were selected to perform.

Two groups will be attending from Derbyshire to show film projects. 

Mary Shepard (19) from Buxton, Lizzie Booker (19) from Grassmoor, Tim Gaunt (18) from Long Eaton, Joyce Bonsall (22) from Chesterfield, Ross Bough (20) from Stonebroom, and Dan Mitchell (18) from Ripley will be showing their two five-minute films called ‘Albert’s View’ and ‘Emily’s Fantasy’.

Dan and Ross also worked alongside Heather Crowder (20) and Katie Meredith (17) both from Chesterfield, Wayne McAndrew (21) from Matlock, Elliott Frazer (16) from Swadlincote and Steven Buckley (18) from Buxton who will show a compilation of eight one-minute films called ‘Long Way Home’.

Youngsters behind ‘Long Way Home’ were put forward by staff from Derbyshire County Council’s Care Leavers’ Employment Project. The other group were nominated by the authority’s west division after care service.

Councillor Anne Western, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “I’m delighted that young people from Derbyshire will be involved in this important event to highlight the abilities of care leavers.

“A lot of the children that are looked after have already had to face many difficulties and challenges in their short lives yet go on to achieve wonderful things and make the most of their great potential.

“This chance to demonstrate their creative skills, at such a wonderful venue, should help them build confidence that they have a bright future ahead.”

(REF: FW.436.06)
 

Solar-powered talking signs are one of the new measures being used to tackle vehicle crime in a Derbyshire town.

Derbyshire County Council launched a pilot project in Alfreton on Friday (20 October) after the town was identified as an area with a higher than average number of vehicle related crimes.

The authority is sending out a clear message reminding motorists to “think safe” when parking and not leave any items on view in their vehicles.

Posters and the talking signs, activated by people walking past, have been introduced in two town centre car parks – Severn Square and Rogers Lane.

Information packs containing a tax disc holder, leaflet, property marking kit and keyring, all carrying important safety messages, were handed out to drivers reminding them to remove their belongings from the dashboard, seats and floor of their vehicles.

Councillor Joyce Sanders, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for community safety services, said: “Removing valuables from your car is a simple crime prevention measure but sometimes we forget or become complacent. 

“We hope this project will remind motorists not to take any chances and prevent thieves from making rich pickings at their expense.

 “Car crime figures are down in Derbyshire but we are continuing to work hard to cut these figures even further.”

As part of the project security fencing and gates will be put up behind high street shops to help deter car thieves and anti-social behaviour.

The initiative is being run by the county council in partnership with Derby and Derbyshire Economic Partnership, Amber Valley Borough Council, Amber Valley Community Safety Partnership and local businesses. 

Government figures this year showed vehicle crime in Derbyshire was down three per cent meaning more than 330 fewer victims across the county.

THINK SAFE: Driver Joanne Colton, from Matlock, is joined by Derbyshire CountyCouncil’s cabinet member for community safety services Councillor Joyce Sanders at the Severn SquareCar Park in Alfreton to launch a new project to tackle car crime.

(Ref: SS.437.06)

Parents are being warned by Derbyshire County Council of the consequences if they don’t ensure their children attend school.

The reminder comes a day after a mother was sent to jail for 12 weeks by Chesterfield magistrates for persistently failing to ensure her two children went to school. The pupils’ father also received a conditional discharge after admitting a lesser offence.

Derbyshire County Council will only prosecute parents as a last resort if they refuse to take advantage of the wide range of support services available to tackle their child’s truancy problems and the causes of it.

But the authority warns it will take tough action when necessary. This can have serious consequences for parents including: 

• Getting a criminal record 
• Being unable to enter certain countries, including America, due to their criminal record  – even for holidays to popular places like Florida
• Being unable to get certain jobs 
  

Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for school planning and support, said: “We do not want to see anyone get a criminal record or go to prison. In most cases negotiation, encouragement and support for families are enough to ensure that children who are having attendance problems quickly return to school.

“But I hope this court case sends out a message to parents that we will not tolerate truancy and will take action where necessary.

"This is an issue that all the authorities, including schools, us and the courts, are taking more seriously because every day a child misses school affects their life chances.

"If pupils aren’t in school and are wandering the streets it also means there is nobody around to check on their personal safety.”

Courts have a range of powers against parents convicted of failing to ensure their children attend school. These include: 

• Fines of up to £2,500, prison sentences of up to three months or both
• Suspended prison sentences
• Orders to attend parenting classes, probation orders or Anti Social Behaviour Orders
  

Derbyshire County Council’s education welfare officers can be contacted through schools and offer a range of support to parents concerned about the attendance of their children. Information is also available online by visiting www.derbyshire.gov.uk (opens in a new window)         

(REF: JF.433.06)

Youngsters at another Derbyshire County Council Youth Centre will also be able to benefit from a cash injection.

The Gamesley Youth Club is holding a 5-a-side football tournament for the young people of the Glossopdale area and has been set up by the youth club members. The event is taking place at the Gamesley Community Centre, and is to be held on Thursday 26 October from 2pm to 4pm. Money raised by the tournament is going to be used to buy equipment for the club.

(Ref: AB:435:06)

Young people from Derbyshire County Council’s Cotmanhay Youth Centre are to play a key role in deciding how to spend a £1.6 million grant.   

The £1.6m regeneration budget has been donated by the Stronger and Safer Communities Fund (SSCF) and is primarily to be used to make Cotmanhay a safer place to live and visit and reduce Anti-Social Behaviour. The event is taking place at the Pavilion Building, Pavilion Road, Cotmanhay, and is being run by the Neighbourhood Management Team, supported by Derbyshire County Council’s youth service.  

Residents are set for a fun day, which is based on a ‘Seaside Theme’. Indoor and outdoor activities, ranging from a mobile climbing wall and a sand castle building competition, to film slide shows and local rap group, ‘The DE7 Crew’ will be held at the event on Sunday 22 October from 2pm to 8pm.

People who attend the event may have their say on the regeneration, by answering the three questions of ‘My favourite thing about Cotmanhay is...’, ‘My least favourite thing about Cotmanhay is...’ and ‘My wish list for Cotmanhay is...’

(REF: AB.435.06)

Derbyshire County Council is continuing its investment into road improvements and repairs with a £85,000 scheme to resurface A6005 Nottingham Road, Long Eaton.

Phase one of the scheme will take place between the Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire county boundary and Charlton Avenue. 

Work is due to start on Monday 30 October and expected to finish on Friday 3 November.

The project will involve closing Station Road for up to three days during this time and major traffic delays are expected in the area.

Traffic will be controlled by temporary lights and temporary diversions will be in place.

The work is part of a wider three-phase £300,000 scheme to resurface Nottingham Road between the county boundary and Asda roundabout on Waverley Street over the next five years.

Councillor Brian Lucas, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for sustainable communities, said: “This is all part of our commitment to improving Derbyshire’s roads and we would ask motorists are asked to be patient while the work is carried out.”

For more information about roadworks being carried out in Derbyshire Call Derbyshire on 08456 058 058.

(REF:JM.434.06)

Talented b_liner David Box is the envy of his friends after winning a day at a fame academy-style college with Emmerdale star Verity Rushworth.

Seventeen-year-old David, an A-Level performing arts student at Newbold Community School in Chesterfield, won a competition in Derbyshire County Council’s b_line magazine entitling him and his friend to a day at the renowned SLP performing arts college in Garforth, near Leeds.

After spending the morning with Emmerdale’s Verity, who plays Donna Windsor in the soap, David enjoyed one-to-one lessons with one of the country’s best teachers.

To win the prize, David, of Brockwell in Chesterfield, had to tell the council’s b_line team why he deserved to win the prize. His answer was: “I am a budding actor and cannot imagine doing anything but acting for the rest of my life. My motto is: ‘What’s the point in having dreams if you’re not going to make them happen!.”

David was given a guided tour of the college by Verity, who was once a student there, and had the chance to observe all the lessons taking place that day.  He had private singing and acting lessons with top performing arts coaches before spending the afternoon with a recent graduate who is now starring as a lead role in a West End musical.

David said: ”I was totally shocked but excited when I won. Drama is something I’ve always wanted to do. I was a bit nervous about meeting Verity but in the end she was really down to earth and lovely.

“I enjoyed having voice coaching and learning about breathing techniques as I’ve never done this before and I really want to pursue acting and singing at college.”

Staff from the college were impressed with David’s singing and acting and say he is more than welcome to apply for a place.

Derbyshire County Council’s leader Councillor John Williams said: “Our b_line scheme is growing in popularity all the time and we had a massive response to this competition.

“We’re delighted David had such a beneficial time and hope it helps him to achieve his career goals.”

Competition runner up Lauren Streets, 12, from Heritage Community School in Clowne, won an exclusive Emmerdale goodie bag.

More than 55,000 copies of b_line magazine are distributed through Derbyshire schools, colleges, youth centres, libraries and from b_line discounters. Copies are also available by phoning Call Derbyshire on 08 456 058 058.

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 website www.derbyshire.gov.uk/b_line (opens in a new window) or ring Call Derbyshire on 08456 058 058.

ALL THAT JAZZ: b_line competition winner David Box and his friend Assumpta Esposito, both 17, meet Emmerdale star Verity Rushworth, who plays Donna Windsor in the soap.

(Ref: SS.432.06)

Sixty pupils from four schools got a taste of life in the construction industry by attending sessions at the Alfreton Vocational Academy.

The Derbyshire County Council-run academy, which is based in the Genesis Centre in King Street, Alfreton, held three days of taster sessions for year nine pupils to encourage them to consider signing up to vocational courses at the centre.

Swanwick Hall School, Mortimer Wilson School in Alfreton, Tupton Hall School in Old Tupton and Frederick Gent School in South Normanton each arranged for 15 of their pupils to take part in the activities. The event was organised by the Derbyshire Education Business Partnership as part of National Construction Week.

Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for school planning and support, said: “The vocational academy has proved very popular with young people because it enables them to study for vocational qualifications while still at school studying their normal GCSEs.

“These sessions let young people get a taste of what it would be like to join the construction course before they have to make a decision about what options to choose.”

As well as running courses in construction the Alfreton Vocational Academy also offers vocational courses in motor vehicle engineering, beauty therapy and engineering.

Budding brickies…Frederick Gent School pupils Lauren Benford, 14, (left) and Lauren Dooley, 13, get the chance to build a wall with Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for school planning and support.

Students at an Ilkeston junior school have moved into four new classrooms which have been created out of an open plan teaching area.

Derbyshire County Council has carried out the adaptation at Chaucer Junior School to improve the quality of education for pupils. The work also included upgrading the electrics system and replacing windows.

The scheme took just over a month and was completed in time for the start of the new academic year. Councillor Walter Burrows, chair of Derbyshire County Council, and Councillor Alan Charles, cabinet member for school planning and support, officially opened the new classrooms.

The work cost £116,000. The school paid £62,582 towards the cost. Derbyshire County Council contributed the rest using money given by a housing developer who built 78 homes on land off Drummond Road in Ilkeston.

Councillor Charles said: “The developer was required to give us this funding as part of the planning agreement which allowed them to build homes in Ilkeston.

“We have been able to use the money to improve the quality of facilities for pupils to help the school cope with any increase in student numbers caused by the extra housing.”

Settling in…Councillor Alan Charles, cabinet member for school planning and support, and Councillor Walter Burrows, chair of Derbyshire County Council, joined Chaucer Junior School pupils Evan Hollis, seven and Natasha Lee, nine, to try out the new classrooms.

Young pupils are learning the joys of reading from an early age thanks to a national scheme being promoted by Derbyshire County Council.

Every child aged four or five in Derbyshire receives a free bag of books that includes:

• A copy of ‘Hairy Maclary’s Bone’ - an illustrated book by Lynley Dodd
• A booklet for parents and carers with advice and tips on reading aloud with their children

Each school also receives:

• A copy of the book for use in class along with a card with suggestions for teachers on how to use the book
• A poster of Hairy Maclary and friends

Pupils at Herbert Strutt Primary School in Belper were among the first to receive their books.

The Booktime scheme is a national initiative carried out at no cost to the county council by education and publishing company Pearson in conjunction with Booktrust – an independent educational charity.

Reading time…Herbert Strutt Primary School pupils Anna Maria Brown, five, Mak Wainwright, four, and Alice Marriott-Lodge, five, read books from their pack with Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for school planning and support.

With bonfire night just around the corner Derbyshire County Council’s trading standards safety team is offering important advice to people either selling or buying fireworks.

As well as carrying out undercover checks using child volunteers to ensure retailers are not selling to under 18s, checks will also be carried out to ensure fireworks are stored safely in line with new explosives regulations which came into force last year.

They will also check illegal fireworks are not on sale and products are not being sold outside the permitted selling periods, which for bonfire night is between October 15 and November 10.

Meanwhile, officers are urging residents to remember the Firework Safety Code when using fireworks. Anyone who has concerns about safety of fireworks in shops or selling underage are encouraged inform trading standards at Call Derbyshire on 08 456 058 058.

Complaints about firework misuse in public places should be reported to the police – this includes using fireworks during the night hours curfew from 11pm to 7am (except on November 5 when the curfew begins at midnight and on New Year’s Eve when it begins at 1am).

Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for community safety services Councillor Joyce Sanders said: “Bonfire night should be fun but unfortunately we hear of fireworks casualties every year.

"Traders have a legal and moral duty to comply with the law and we support them with information and advice about their responsibilities – we recently held free training sessions for all fireworks traders.

“Fireworks can only be sold at registered premises and we urge consumers to take care when buying and storing fireworks.

“We are determined to stamp out illegal sales and continue to work hard to ensure bonfire night is as safe as possible so everyone can enjoy the celebrations.”

Trading standards has the following advice to customers:

• Always buy fireworks from registered premises - if you are in doubt, call Derbyshire County Council trading standards at Call Derbyshire on 08456 058 058 to check. Fireworks cannot be legally sold from car boot sales or market stalls.
• Only buy fireworks that meet British Standards and are marked BS 7114.
• Follow the instructions carefully and think about where you are going to let them off - many require spectators to stand 25 metres away in all directions.
• The new Regulations can apply to members of the public storing explosives at home for personal use. Anyone keeping a substantial quantity of fireworks at home for more than 21 days must be registered with trading standards.  Larger quantities may only be kept unregistered for up to three days at the place of intended use. Be aware that home insurance cover may be invalid if fireworks are not stored safely and legally.

 Traders who sell fireworks are advised to:

• Ensure they are registered with the county council.
• Check fireworks are stored safely and legally.
• Refuse to sell to anyone under 18. If unsure, ask for proof of age and if it cannot be provided, do not sell. It is against the law for traders to sell fireworks to anyone under 18 and if they are caught flouting the law they could be prosecuted. 
• Be aware the maximum fine for fireworks offences is £5,000 and up to six months imprisonment for serious safety breaches.
• Contact Derbyshire County Council’s trading standards at Call Derbyshire on 08456 058 058 if you are in any doubt about the way to store fireworks.

The fireworks safety code and other information on firework sales can be found at www.dti.gov.uk/fireworks (opens in a new window)

Storage laws and guidance can be found at www.hse.gov.uk/explosives (opens in a new window)

The authority’s trading standards enforcement officers recently seized more than 800kg of illegally stored fireworks in Derbyshire following information from the police.

(Ref:SS.430.06)

Thousands of pounds are to be invested in projects for young people following a consultation by Derbyshire County Council.

Derbyshire’s 11 to 19-year-olds have been consulted to find out what activities they most like doing and how they would like to see £1.5 million of the Government’s money spent to improve their lives.

The £1.5 million funding has come from the Government’s Youth Opportunity Fund and Youth Capital Fund and has to be spent over the next two years.

More than 4,500 young people had their say since the consultation was launched in May.

Questionnaires designed by Derbyshire Youth Forum were distributed to schools and included in the b_line magazine website and posters and leaflets were circulated to schools, youth centres, libraries and voluntary organisations.

Councillor Anne Western, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, said: “We wanted to make sure that this money is spent where it will be of most benefit to young people in the towns and villages of Derbyshire.

“It has been a great opportunity for us to get direct feedback from these youngsters so we can support their needs and offer great all-round provision for them.”

The consultation was organised by Derbyshire Youth Forum members, who were elected in the Big Vote, with support from the authority.

Youth forum members reported back the findings of the consultation to Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet in August.

Members of the youth forum met at County Hall today, during Local Democracy Week, to report back on their spending recommendations which were approved at yesterday’s cabinet meeting.

Councillor Bob Janes, cabinet member for cultural and community services, said: “It has been a fantastic opportunity for young people to exercise their voice and influence the decisions which impact on their lives.

“Members of the youth forum attended the cabinet meeting and were able to discuss the findings of the consultation to help target services where they will get the most use and provide what young people want.”

Consultation findings showed the youngsters’ choice of priority spending included; safe places to meet and socialise, internet cafés, more activities and leisure opportunities, dance and drama workshops and increased sports facilities.

Youth Capital Funding of £324,762 is now to be pumped into projects throughout Derbyshire to provide:

• Ddisadvantaged young people across the county with the chance to train with professional filmmakers to produce short documentaries - £50,000
• A broadband enabled pc in all of the authority’s youth service establishments - £20,000
• A youth shelter in New Mills to offer young people a safe, well-lit place to meet - £30,000
• Laptops, software, broadband and printer for Hadfield Youth Club - £5,000
• Goals, basketball poles and resurface an existing sports pitch in Fairfield - £3,000
• Music tasters on singing, song writing, lighting, mixing, live sound engineering and recording for young people in the High Peak - £5,260
• A renovated and redecorated kitchen and youth lounge in Chesterfield youth centre, with young people involved in the design - £13,700
• An updated PC suite at Peter Webster Youth Resource Centre, New Whittington - £16,000
• A mini mobile vehicle to take sports activities to parks and meeting places throughout Bolsover - £30,000
• Two sets of external lighting systems to enable Bolsover Youth Information Mobile to provide activities that require floodlights - £1,000 
• New hardware, games and materials for photo projects and digital art works for use in youth centres at Bolsover, Cresswell and Pinxton - £4,500
• Young people in Cotmanhay with a BMX track - £12,000
• A restored and upgraded kitchen and lounge area at the Long Eaton Youth Club, including additional music equipment - £24,000
• Equipment for a youth club to be held once a week in a church hall in Draycott - £1,500
• Musical equipment including a mixing desk and software for Long Eaton Youth Centre - £13,032
• Additional games equipment and specialist computer adaptations to enable a blind young person to access ICT facilities at Hurst Farm Voluntary Youth Club, Matlock - £6,000
• Equipment to extend the ‘A Up’ performing arts initiative across the Derbyshire Dales – £7,000
• Sports equipment for use by young people in Taddington - £2,000
• All-weather surface for playing fields in Mickley and addition of goalposts and astro turf for goalmouths – £3,200
• A youth shelter for young people to use as a meeting place in Mickley - £4,565
• Four laptops to Holmewood Youth Club - £4,000
• Computers, furniture and cupboards for Somercotes Youth Club - £6,000
• Support and equipment for a voluntary youth club at Ironville, including a sound system, laptop and printer and sports equipment - £5,300
• Specialised sports equipment including bows, arrows, targets and netting for the ‘3 Parish’ mobile sports project serving Heanor, Langley Mill, Loscoe and Codnor - £2,100
• A meeting and a project room for young people at Woodville Youth Centre - £10,000
• Sports and play equipment on a permanent travellers site at Foston - £8,500
• Digital media equipment including video cameras, a laptop and projector for a young people’s group running at Woodville Youth Centre which supports youngsters with special needs - £3,125
• Eequipment for a ‘quit smoking’ group based at John Port School in Etwall - £500
• A youth shelter in Chesnut Park, Midway to give young people a safe meeting place - £10,000
• Internet and PC access to be used as part of an internet café project at the Youth Information Shop in Swadlincote - £4,780
• Laptops, printers and software for the Old Post Newhall project - £5,000
• A mobile music studio for the South Derbyshire area - £8,200
• Circus skills equipment for a peer learning scheme in Swadlincote and to involve young people in a National Youth Work Week event at Woodville Youth Centre - £5,000
• Noticeboards to signpost activities for young people - £500. 

Further projects to be funded with £268,110 from the Youth Opportunities Fund include:

• Open College Network registration for up to 600 young people to involve them in training projects which offer qualifications or accreditation such as Youthtrain - £30,000
• Young Volunteers Sports Train and Girls Train residential courses for up to 60 young people  - £18,000
• Transport costs for eight members of Club 43, which provides twice-monthly activities for deaf young people aged 14 to 17 years - £4,250
• Dance workshops throughout the county - £5,000
• 16 gigs across the county to give young people the chance to access live music - £16,000
• Team building, citizenship and personal development activities as part of residential courses for up to 36 young people on the Entry to Employment (e2e) programme - £6,300
• Training for young people as youth rangers to allow 40 young people to undertake residential courses and accredited learning and further opportunities for up to 200 youngsters to take part in skills days - £39,000
• Events in High Peak parks with DJ, rapping skills and archery sessions - £10,000
• Support for seven young people with special educational needs and autism to attend a music and drama course at High Peak College - £5,460
• Two youth workers to work with young people on Friday and Saturday evenings to promote diversionary activities in the High Peak - £10,000
• A series of drama workshops to enable young people in Gamesley to produce a play about bullying - £2,500
• A drop-in evening held once a week at Tideswell library for young people to be able to access facilities and meet up with friends - £6,000
• Youth provision to be decided following consultation with young people, to be developed in Bradwell - £7,000
• Opportunities for youngsters in Cotmanhay to take part in  football competition in Derby, organised by Sporting Futures and the Youth Service - £5,500
• A series of 12 one-hour long dance sessions for young people in Erewash - £1,000
• The Zip Zone drop-in project in Chesterfield which offers young people opportunities to engage in positive activities on Friday evenings - £1,500 
• Extended opening for youth centres in the Bolsover area (Pinxton, Creswell and Talking Hedz) to provide Saturday afternoon sessions – £9,000
• Sessions across Bolsover to offer support and activities for young people who cannot access youth centres - £20,000
• Support for Café Aroma in Killamarsh which is a multi-agency café/drop-in facility - up to £32,000
• Weekend residential for 15 disabled young people who attend the Oyster Club, Alfreton, to help them develop their independence skills - £4,000
• A music and dance residential workshop for eight young people from Heanor and Ironville - £1,300
• Support for a voluntary youth club in Heage by providing specialised circus arts staffing costs - £1,600
• Sporting residential trips so up to 40 young people in Somercotes, Waingroves and Ironville can access different types of activities - £6,400
• Opportunities for young people across Amber Valley to work alongside professional artists to design and produce art work - £3,000
• Sexual health counselling service at the Old Post in Newhall - £13,500
• Findern Young People’s Art Club, which will receive cash to help youngsters plan, produce and deliver a community Christmas event for elderly people in the community - £3,300
• Community arts project in Etwall for up to 20 people to learn skills including dance and drama - £500
• Transport and tuition for outdoor activities such as climbing and canoeing for young people across South Derbyshire - £5,000
• A healthy eating initiative for young people using the Youth Information Shop in Swadlincote - £1,000. 

(REF: FW.431.06)

Walking to school is no chore for seven-year-old Eve Johnson – she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Derbyshire County Council is encouraging thousands of pupils across the county to join the Harpur Hill Primary School pupil by hitting the streets during International Walk to School Week (16-20 October).

Eve first asked mum Phillippa if they could leave the car behind during a previous Walk to School Week.

And she enjoyed it so much that they regularly hit the streets in the morning rather than driving the mile-long journey from their home in Buxton.

Phillippa said: “Sometimes I think the weather’s a bit grim to walk but Eve’s adamant we’ll walk and we do really enjoy it.

“It’s a nice way to ease into the day and it gives us the chance to have a chat, discuss things, collect conkers on the way and things like that.”

Walk to School Week is aimed at encouraging children and parents to think about alternatives to travelling to school by car such as walking, cycling, travelling partly by car and walking, taking the bus  and car sharing.

It also aims to improve health and road safety awareness, reduce dependency on the car, ease traffic congestion and pollution.

Feet First: Councillor Joyce Sanders, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for community safety services joins Eve Johnson (7), and mum Phillippa on walk to school.

Hundreds of house fires have potentially been prevented thanks to a campaign offering free electric blanket safety checks for older and disabled people across Derbyshire.

It is the second time Derbyshire County Council’s trading standards team has run the campaign in partnership with Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service and Derby City Council after figures showed these groups were six times more likely than anyone else to die in a house fire caused by an electric blanket.

During the two-week campaign in September 971 blankets were handed in to libraries and fire stations across the county or collected by home helps – and 366 were found to be so faulty they had to be destroyed.

Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for community safety services Councillor Joyce Sanders said: “Once again we were overwhelmed with the number of blankets handed in and shocked by how many were so faulty they could have been a house fire waiting to happen.

“We’re committed to improving safety for all our residents, particularly vulnerable groups like older and disabled people, so we’re extremely pleased to be able to help so many people with these free checks.

“We’re very grateful to our partners for helping us reach as many people as possible and make this campaign such a success.” 

All safe blankets have now been returned to their owners and anyone whose blanket failed the test was sent a voucher for £5 off the cost of a new blanket up to the cost of £40 or £10 off the cost of a new blanket costing more than £40.

The campaign covered the whole county by linking trading standards, libraries, social services and fire stations to provide as many access points as possible. Home collection was arranged for residents with mobility problems.

“We had dozens of trading standards and library staff, home helps and fire station staff performing an invaluable role behind the scenes to ensure that all blankets were collected, tested and returned to the appropriate place,” added Councillor Sanders.

Derby City Council’s cabinet member for enforcement Councillor Pauline Latham said: "If we have prevented even a single fire, injury or death, it has been well worth it."

Derbyshire County Council offers the following simple safety tips to help pull the plug on bedroom fires:

• Always buy new – second-hand blankets may not be safe
• Have your blanket checked by an expert every year to ensure it is still safe to use.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Never use a blanket with scorch marks or exposed elements and regularly check for any signs of damage.
• Check the plug cord for any signs of wear and tear or damage.
• Do not plug the blanket in to an overloaded socket.
• Never use a blanket if it’s wet or creased - and never switch it on to dry it out.
• Never use a hot water bottle and an electric blanket together.
• When the blanket isn’t being used unplug it.
• Always spread the blanket out – never use it folded.
• Keep the blanket stored properly during the summer months – refer to the manufacturer’s instructions about how to do this.
• Most electric blankets are designed not to be washed – always check the manufacturer’s instructions.   

Anyone living in Derbyshire can request a free home fire safety check from Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service by calling 01332 771221.

(Ref: SS.429.06)

A new series of free specialist workshops, mentoring and grant support aimed at people setting up and running creative enterprises has been announced.  

The first series of five jargon-free workshops runs from 31 October to 17 November at The Arena, Ilkeston, and is available for free to creative industries in areas including Derby city, Amber Valley and the Derbyshire Dales. Specialist mentoring and grant assistance will also be available.  

The Focusing Creativity programme is aimed at people running creative businesses ranging from web design and visual art to advertising and music.  

It consists of one full and four half-day workshops, delivered by arts and creative industry specialists including renowned creative business coach David Parrish – author of the business guide T-Shirts and Suits.  

Focusing Creativity is a programme which is part of the Creative Industries Network (CIN)-led consortium, made up of a number of organisations collaborating to ensure creative people setting up their own businesses in Derbyshire receive the support they need.  

The consortium is funded through the Derby and Derbyshire Economic Partnership and is made up of a partnership between Derbyshire County Council, Derbyshire Enterprise Agency and Creative Launchpad, led by the Creative Industries Network.  

Focusing Creativity is delivered in partnership between Derbyshire County Council and Derbyshire Enterprise Agency.  

The workshops are:  

Focusing Creativity. The core one day workshop of the programme looks at what drives you as a creative enterprise, your passion and mission; resulting in a realistic development plan and strategy. Date: Tuesday 31 October. 9.30am - 4.30pm

Creative Essentials. You have the strategy – now how do you market your enterprise? Creative essentials gives you the knowledge and tools to develop a plan to get your message out there. 
Date: Thursday 9 November. 12pm -  4.30pm

Creative Vision. You know where you want to be but how do you get there? Creative Vision gives you the skills, tips and practical know-how to research the best route forward to plan for your creative enterprise. 
Date: Friday 10 November. 12pm - 4.30pm

Creative Confidence. This workshop builds on your ability to communicate the benefits of your creativity to customers and your audience. 
Date: Tuesday 14 November. 12pm - 4.30pm  

Creative Capital. Financial management can be a pain but unfortunately it’s one we cannot ignore. This half-day workshop will give you the skills to manage your finances and control cash flow, rather than cash flow controlling you. 
Date: Friday 17 November. 12pm - 4.30pm  

Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for regeneration Councillor Geoff Carlile said: “We are pleased to be part of the consortium offering these free workshops and grant support and I am sure that, as with previous programmes, demand for places will be high. I would urge people to come forward as soon as possible to secure their place.

“The workshops are being led by industry experts who will guide creative minds through the sometimes difficult process of setting up a new business and helping it to develop and thrive.

“The programme looks at all aspects of running a successful business, from planning a strategy and a development plan to marketing and financial skills.”

On top of the workshops, people signing up may also be eligible for grant assistance for up to 50 per cent on a number of things including the cost for marketing, attending tradeshows and buying equipment.

To ensure people continue to get the support they need for their businesses to thrive, one-to-one creative specialist mentoring is also available following the workshops and there will be specialists on hand to refer people to other support schemes operating across the region.

There has been a high demand for previous programmes and places on the workshop are limited.

To apply for the first series in Ilkeston or for further details please contact Derbyshire County Council’s Focusing Creativity officers Carl Severn or Anthony Byrne via email: carl.severn@derbyshire.gov.uk or anthony.byrne@derbyshire.gov.uk or by telephone: 01629 580000 ext 7474.  

(Ref:MC.427.06)

An action plan has been put in place to improve standards at Langley Mill Junior School, following a visit by Government education inspectors.

A team of three Ofsted inspectors found a number of strengths including the:

• Subject leaders carry out their work with enthusiasm
• Pupils behaviour is satisfactory and often good in lessons
• Older pupils have opportunities to contribute to their community

But they placed the school in special measures to address weaknesses in teaching, achievement and management.

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

Headteacher Peter Clayton said: “We have already started to tackle some of the weaknesses, as was recognised by the inspectors, and we are determined to take swift action on all the recommendations in the report and build on the strengths we already have.

“Improvements are being made and we are clear and focused on other changes that we need to make.”

Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for school planning and support, said: “When a school is placed in special measures it will always be a time of concern for parents.

“But our education advisors will work closely with the school’s headteacher and governors to ensure that everything possible is done to drive up standards.”

The school, which has 281 pupils aged seven to 11, was inspected on 11 and 12 September. Inspectors recommend that the school:

• Improves the quality of management through more rigorous monitoring and evaluation
• Raises standards, particularly for girls in reading, mathematics and science
• Develop the pupils’ independent learning 
• Take account of all statutory requirements for health and safety.

John Carnell, chair of governors, said: “A rigorous action plan has been drawn up to allow us to implement the inspectors’ recommendations.

“We will particularly concentrate focus on improving results in reading, mathematics and science.”

(REF: FW.428.06)

People are being urged to have their say over proposed changes by Royal Mail to the collection and delivery times of post.  

Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for regeneration Councillor Geoff Carlile is encouraging people who may be affected by the changes to give their views to Postcomm, the independent regulator for the postal market.  

Postcomm has launched the national consultation to gather views from individuals and businesses about the proposed changes, which would see the Royal Mail bringing forward final collection times from some post boxes, particularly in rural areas. In some cases final collections in rural areas are now made as early as 9am according to watchdog Postcomm.  

Following Royal Mail’s decision to implement a single daily delivery, some mail is already being delivered later in the day, which has led to some instances where the daily delivery is now made after the final mail collection, according to Postcomm.  

Councillor Carlile, who has been at the forefront of Derbyshire County Council’s campaign to save rural Post Offices, said that there were concerns the changes to collection and delivery times could affect businesses, particularly in rural areas of the county.  

He wants people to have their say over the changes and contact Postcomm to give their views in the consultation.  

Key questions asked in the consultation include whether or not customers are willing to pay more for an increased level of service and whether or not their businesses had been affected by changing collection and delivery times.  

It also asks whether individuals and businesses would expect to pay less for later delivery times.  

Councillor Carlile said: “It is vital that people who may be affected by these changes add their voice to the consultation and ensure their views are heard.  

“Protecting jobs and services in rural and smaller communities is high on our agenda and it is important that these changes are not detrimental to businesses.  

“I would urge people to log on to the Postcomm site and have their say.”  

To join in the consultation and give your views go to:  

http://www.psc.gov.uk/policy-and-consultations/consultations/review-of-royal-mail-s-collection-and-delivery-times.html (opens in a new window)

(Ref: 423.06)

A Derbyshire couple have praised the support they have had to help their dream of running their own business come true.  

Andrew and Denise Jackson of Bolsover, are officially opening their hair salon `Ashley James Hair’ on Monday 23 October after months of planning and a refurbishment programme.  

The couple have taken advantage of free business start up courses run by Derbyshire Enterprise Agency on behalf of Business Link and funded by Derbyshire County Council. They have also received top quality business planning from Business Link advisors.  

During 2005/2006 there were 548 start-up businesses supported through this programme and 802 new jobs created.  The Jacksons reappraised their lives after the death of their son Ashley four years ago and decided they wanted to become their own bosses.  Andrew, 42, is now a fully-qualified hairdresser and when the opportunity arose for them to take over a local salon they jumped at it.  

The couple prepared for their new venture by seeking help and advice from Business Link advisors who helped them from their initial idea to preparing a business plan and suggested training courses that would be helpful.  They both attended a business start-up course and Denise, 48, also went on a book-keeping course, funded by Derbyshire County Council, before taking the plunge.  

They took over the `Waves’ salon in Castle Street, Bolsover, which had been in business for more than 20 years and after some refurbishment and a new name they have decided to hold a grand opening to celebrate.

The couple have re-named the salon after their sons, Ashley, who died at the age of 13 years and James, who is 19 years old.  

As well as becoming their own bosses, the couple have employed four staff and already have a thriving client list.  

Denise said: “It is something we have wanted to do for a while but starting up your own business can be very daunting.  

“After contacting Business Link Derbyshire and finding out about the Derbyshire County Council-funded courses we didn’t look back and I would recommend anyone starting up a business to get their help and support. It has been invaluable to us and we know where to turn for any support we may need in the future.”  

Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for regeneration Councillor Geoff Carlile, who will officially open the salon, said: “We are extremely pleased that the Jacksons have benefited from our courses and the support from Business Link Derbyshire.    

“The courses and support are in place to help people just like them realise their dreams of setting up their own businesses.  

“We realise it can be difficult to get started and hope that what we have put in place encourages people to take the plunge and set up on their own. They do not have to feel alone as there is a lot of support and advice out there to help.  

”New businesses are the life-blood of any community as they bring new jobs and economic prosperity.”  

For more information about start-up business advice and training courses contact Derbyshire Chamber and Business Link on 0845 601 1038.  

(Ref: MC.419.06)

Have you ever wondered where your family originated from or how your ancestors earned their living? 

Well you can start searching at a Derbyshire County Council library where you can now get free access to the country’s most comprehensive family history website. 

Thanks to a unique deal struck by the county council, library users can now log on to www.ancestry.com (opens in a new window) without having to pay a registration fee. 

This new service is now available in five of the county council’s libraries – Chesterfield, Glossop, Ilkeston, Swadlincote and the Local Studies Library in Matlock. 

Library staff will also be on hand to help get people started on the library computers, which are also free to use. 

The website contains more than 4,000 databases listing over four million names together with census records for England and Wales dating from 1841 to 1901. 

Historians can also check the registration of births, marriages and deaths on the General Register Office index from 1837 while the website also contains records from Scotland, Ireland, America, Canada, Australia and Europe. 

Councillor Bob Janes, the county council’s cabinet member for cultural and community services, said: “Recent television programmes tracking the family history of famous people has rekindled many people’s desire to find out about their own past. 

“Researching your family history can be extremely time consuming but this website means people can search for the names of relatives without the need to travel to other locations to use traditional microfilm copies of the census. 

“And, thanks to a deal struck by the county council, people can come to our libraries where they can access the website free of charge instead of paying a registration fee and of course, it is free to use the library computers. 

“This is an excellent opportunity for researchers as it opens up a whole world of information at their fingertips.” 

(Ref: CC.426.06)

More than 150 young people from youth clubs across Derbyshire are preparing to take part in a night hike around the countryside.

The annual Moon Manoeuvres event has been organised by Derbyshire County Council’s youth service and will involve teams of up to seven people, aged 14 to 19.

The event is based at the Lea Green Development and Conference Centre in Lea, near Crich. Teams will be taken out at staggered intervals to the starting point and returned back to the centre after completing the course. 

On the way round competitors will have to read maps to navigate their way to various fixed points and take part in a series of mental challenges and problem solving exercises. 

The event will take place overnight on Friday 13 and Saturday 14 October. The quickest team to complete the course will win the Derbyshire Shield.

Councillor Bob Janes, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for cultural and community services, said: “Moon Manoeuvres is always popular with young people because there is a sense of adventure doing a challenge like this at night. They also enjoy working as part of a team.

“I am looking forward to meeting all the competitors when they have completed their challenge.”

Everyone who finishes the course will be given a medal by Councillor Janes at 7am on 14 October. The Derbyshire Shield will also be presented at this time.

Put on your Dancing Shoes

Young people in Chapel-en-le-Frith are putting on their dancing shoes to start preparing for a Christmas showcase.

From tomorrow (Saturday 14 October) young people will spend three months working with professional dancer Phil Nelson to put together a routine so they can perform in the Chapel Christmas Showcase.

Phil will run workshops on various styles including street dance, break dance and hip hop.

The workshops are free and take place on Saturdays between 2pm and 4pm in Chapel Youth Centre in High Street. No previous experience is needed.

For further information or to book a place on a workshop call Rachel Mycock on 01298 812705.
 
(REF: JF.425.06)

Parents of year six pupils have just days left to apply for a secondary school place for their child.

Thousands of parents with children born between 1 September 1995 and 31 August 1996 have already made applications to Derbyshire County Council. But hundreds more still need to do so before the deadline at 3.30pm on Friday 20 October.

More than 9,000 application forms have been sent out asking parents to list, in order of preference, the three secondary schools they most want their child to go to. 

Late applications will not be considered until places have been given to parents who returned their form on time.

With time running out the quickest way to apply is online through the Derbyshire County Council website at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/admissions (opens in a new window) 

For parents who do not have access to a computer there is a new telephone application facility available through the Call Derbyshire contact centre by ringing 08456 058 058 between 8am and 8pm on weekdays and 9.30am and 4pm on Saturdays. Call Derbyshire staff will fill in the form on behalf of parents using information given. 

These alternative methods have been developed to increase choice and flexibility but parents who prefer may still choose to complete the paper form included in the application pack. This can be returned to their child’s current school.

Councillor Alan Charles, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for school planning and support, said: “It is crucial that parents do not just ignore the form because their child’s future could be affected if they fail to meet the deadline.

“More than 1,500 parents have already applied online or through Call Derbyshire. Given that the deadline is only days away these are the quickest ways of applying.” 

Although parents have a legal right to express preferences they have no automatic right to a place at a particular school.

All parents will be offered a school place for their child on 1 March 2007. 

(REF:JF.424.06)

A puppet dog gave Derbyshire children valuable lessons in road safety when the county council hosted Dogworthy’s Magic Roadshow.

The 45-minute play – performed by Jacolly Puppet Theatre - follows the story of Dogworthy and his near miss with a car. Through games, magic and song the audience teach Dogworthy – a great magician who is not too clever at crossing the road - how to cross safely. 

The play was performed to five to eight year-olds from 20 schools across the county. 

Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for community safety services Councillor Joyce Sanders said: “Last year in Derbyshire there were 42 children killed or seriously injured on our roads. This was one of the lowest years on record since the ’90s but we still need to be teaching youngsters to be more alert and aware when they are out and about. 

“Puppet theatre in particular is a very visual and captivating way in which to communicate these messages."

A DOG’S LIFE…Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for community safety services Councillor Joyce Sanders with (left) Daniela Pendleton, aged seven and Ellie Boswell, aged six from Unstone St Mary’s Infant School, Dronfield

People with learning difficulties are to become even more involved in decision-making following changes to a county partnership board.  

The Derbyshire Learning Disability Partnership Board was set up in 2001 as a result of the Government’s national plan `Valuing People’ which aims to improve the lives of people with learning difficulties and their families.  

Since then the county partnership board has set about linking services and organisations to make changes outlined in the Valuing People plan and helping to promote the rights, choices, independence and social inclusion of people with learning difficulties.  

Following a review of the way the partnership board and its several sub-groups operate, it has now been decided to change its structure and establish Local Partnership Boards.  

It is hoped the Local Partnership Boards will make it easier to develop opportunities in the community and establish and maintain effective links with district councils, local health services, housing agencies, leisure and community services.  

The county partnership board will support the work of the Local Partnership Boards which will be set up in each district council area.  

People with learning difficulties and their families and carers have traditionally been involved in the partnership board and their participation will increase with the introduction of the new Local Partnership Boards.  

The local boards will be co-chaired by a person with learning difficulties, a family carer representative and someone from a profession, for example a housing officer or a person working for the local health services.  

Up to two more people with learning difficulties and two more family carers will also be elected to the local board which will meet every four to six weeks.  

Each elected member will be trained and could gain a qualification and representatives from each local board will sit on the county partnership board to keep it informed.  

Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for services for older people and vulnerable adults Councillor Dave Allen said: “The changes to the Derbyshire Learning Disability Partnership Board will not only improve links with other organisations and groups in the community but also strengthen the involvement of people with learning difficulties and their family carers.  

“The Local Partnership Boards will build on the success of the past five years and in turn will help to improve things for people with learning difficulties, achieving better recognition of their rights to choices, independence and inclusion.”  

More information about the work of the Derbyshire Partnership Board and services for people with learning difficulties can be found at http://www.derbyshire.gov.uk/Social_health/learning_disability_partnership (opens in a new window)

More information about Valuing People and the work being done nationally to improve the rights, independence, choice and inclusion of people with learning difficulties can be found at http://valuingpeople.gov.uk/index.jsp (opens in a new window)     

(Ref:MC.420.06)

(Modified 3 November 2006).

Members of Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet are to decide whether to hold a public consultation into proposals to close a primary school in the Hope Valley.

Stoney Middleton CE Primary School, in High Street, has places for 47 pupils but currently has just 21 on its roll. Future projections indicate that could fall to 15 students by 2010/11.

As a result it costs £5,678 to educate every pupil at Stoney Middleton CE Primary School – more than double the Derbyshire average of £2,640.

Loss of pupils could also mean that the school cannot afford to keep its current number of teachers in the future as it will receive less Government funding.

The school is already without a permanent headteacher as the previous one retired in August. The post has been advertised but governors have been unable to appoint anyone to the job. An acting headteacher is currently running the school.

Curbar Primary School has enough surplus places to accommodate all the pupils currently at Stoney Middleton CE Primary School. Eyam CE Primary School and Grindleford Primary School also have surplus places and would be able to take extra pupils if parents wanted to apply there instead.

The county council’s cabinet will meet on Tuesday 17 October to decide whether to consult with parents about the possibility of closing the school due to falling pupil numbers.

Councillor Alan Charles, cabinet member for school planning and support, said: “The consultation will look at all possible options for the future of the school. We are recommending the school be considered for closure because we believe falling pupil numbers mean the school’s funding from the Government will be affected.

“This will have a direct impact on the quality of education that can be offered to children. The school is already struggling to attract a permanent headteacher because pupil numbers are so low. 

“We want to hear from parents and other people in the community to find their views before taking any decisions or starting any formal procedures to consider closing the school.”

Any savings made by closing Stoney Middleton CE Primary School would be put back into the school’s budget and distributed among all other Derbyshire schools.

If cabinet approves the consultation a public meeting will be held at Stoney Middleton CE Primary School on Thursday 2 November at 6.30pm to discuss all the options.

Comments can be made in writing to the Strategic Director for Children and Younger Adults (REF DEV/DAH), Development Section, Derbyshire County Council, Chatsworth Hall, Chesterfield Road, Matlock, DE4 3FW or by emailing dee.hill@derbyshire.gov.uk  The deadline for responses is 27 November.                

(REF: JF.422.06)

More small businesses in Derbyshire have been awarded grants as part of a scheme to boost the county’s creative economy. 

A photographer, a contemporary tableware designer and a textile design company are the latest creative companies to receive £500 from the Derbyshire Arts Partnership, which is supported by Derbyshire County Council. 

The Derbyshire Designer Maker Grants offer support to help market and develop companies in Derbyshire and Derby City with the aim of boosting the area’s creative economy. 

Three grants have been awarded in the latest round of handouts with money available for a wide range of marketing including website development, photography and new signs. 

The latest successful companies to receive the grants are: 

Fotopia Photography, Clowne, Bolsover - The company provides a diverse photographic service to the community providing domestic portraits, wedding photography, fashion portraiture and a portfolio service as well as performing commercial work for businesses. The grant is being used to give the company’s premises on the Crossroads Business Park, Creswell Road, a higher profile by adding a banner to the side of the building and new signs. Part of the grant will also be spent on website development.

Sara Taylor, Vernon Gate, Derby - A contemporary tableware designer inspired by Derbyshire and with an interest in graphic, hand-drawn illustration, photographic manipulation and textile design. Her collections of china include a 16-piece dinner service called Geisha, a mix and match mug collection called Oooh & Aaah and a Water Lily vase. The grant has gone toward a photo-shoot of her products at Tissington Hall, near Ashbourne, which has helped Sara improve the impact of her website and brochure.

Both Textiles, Whitwell, Bolsover – A collaborative design partnership made up of textile artist Ruth Waller and product designer Lee Hewett who specialise in contemporary, innovative design-led textiles. Their collections, which explore the three-dimensional and textural potential of textiles, include rugs, cushions and bags made of hard felted wool balls. They have already secured orders from the Conran Shop in London and the grant will be spent on product sample sheets and website development. Their business premises are located in Welbeck, near Worksop. 

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.   

Since their launch in April 2005, 23 businesses have benefited from grants totalling £12,000.   

The money has been spent by the companies on a wide range of marketing support including advertising, professional design and print, attendance at trade fairs, website development and product sample sheets. 

(Ref: AJ.421.06)

Derbyshire County Council is ‘Moving Forward’ with a summary of its plans for improving roads, pavements and public transport across the county over the next five years.

Building on the success of its first transport plan for 2001/2006, the county council has outlined key areas for improvement in 2006/2011 including:

• Roads and pavements – with £123 million earmarked for maintenance
• Road safety – with a new set of challenging targets to further reduce accidents 
• Better bus and train services and cycle networks 
• Improving air quality and protecting the environment 
• Strengthening the local business economy and reducing congestion.

The 16-page booklet, entitled Moving Forward, also charts some of the key improvements made in Derbyshire towns and villages over the past five years including: 

• Investing millions of pounds in the county’s roads, pavements, footpaths and cycle routes to make them safer for people to use
• Supporting bus and train networks to make it easier for people to get out and about
• Working with others to cut accidents, deaths and injuries on our roads.

And it also lists the results: 

• Residents have said they are happier with roads, pavements and footpaths
• More people using bus services in Derbyshire and increased passenger satisfaction with the service
• National targets for cutting serious injuries and deaths on the county’s roads were met.

Councillor Brian Lucas, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for sustainable communities, said: “Derbyshire residents told us they wanted improvements to the county’s roads and better access to good public transport and we’ve listened.

“That’s why we’ve been investing in maintaining and repairing our roads and pavements as well as improving bus and train services, road safety and promoting greener travel such as providing more routes for cyclists.

“But we know we’ve still got more work to do and we’ll continue to talk to people to make sure we’re getting it right.”

Moving Forward is available to view in all Derbyshire libraries, online at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/transport/transport_planning/ (opens in a new window) or from Call Derbyshire on 08456 058 058.

(REF:JM.418.06)

Children enjoyed a morning of fun and games with books at an event organised at a Derbyshire children’s centre to celebrate National Bookstart Day.

Book characters Noddy, Kipper and Spot featured at The Little Acorns Bookstart Fun Day which was enjoyed by more than 30 babies and toddlers and their families.

Staff and children also dressed up as characters from books to help the event go with a swing.

The event, at the Woodville SureStart Children’s Centre on Thursday, October 5, was organised by staff from the centre on Blacksmith’s Lane and Derbyshire County Council libraries staff.

Activities included a treasure hunt for children’s book characters, a colouring competition and fancy dress. Every child received a bookmark, a placemat featuring nursery rhymes and a free book.

Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for cultural and community services, Councillor Bob Janes, was on hand to help at the event which took place from 9.30am-11.30am during the centre’s usual parent, baby and toddler group.

“It was a brilliant event with a bumper turnout,” said Bob. “Books are an excellent way for children to learn and this event gave us the opportunity to show children and their families just how much fun you can have with them.

“It helped bring the books to life and the children really enjoyed themselves.”

Bookstart is a nationally-organised scheme which provides babies and young children with free books to promote a love of books and reading. It also encourages parents to share books with their children.

In the seven years since its introduction, Derbyshire County Council has provided almost 60,000 babies and toddlers with Bookstart packs.

National Bookstart Day - on Friday, October 6 - was celebrated in libraries across Derbyshire, including Melbourne Library which held a special Bookstart storytime.

DRESSING UP: Remy Baker, two, dressed up as children’s book character Funnybones to celebrate National Bookstart Day at the Woodville SureStart Children’s Centre. His mum Sara Baker and Councillor Bob Janes, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for cultural and community services, are also pictured.

Library users won’t have to miss out on their books, CDs and DVDs while Chapel-en-le-Frith library and register office is refurbished, thanks to Derbyshire County Council’s mobile library service.

The authority is sending one of its large mobile libraries to the town every fortnight to ensure people can still access the library service.

Equipped with the latest satellite broadband internet access, the vehicle will be at Morrison’s car park every other Tuesday from 10am to 12.30pm, the next visit being October 17.

As well as being able to borrow books and hire CDs and DVDs, visitors to the mobile library can get free access to the internet in order to surf the net, reserve items or access all the county council’s online services.

To launch the new service, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for cultural and community services, Councillor Bob Janes, visited the mobile on Tuesday, October 3.

The authority is spending £68,000 redesigning and redecorating the library in the Town Hall on Market Street to make it a brighter place to browse and more accessible for disabled people. It is also revamping the register officer with the area currently used by the Registrar incorporated into the library.

During the work, the library and register office will be closed until Monday, January 8.

People needing to use the register office during this time can use New Mills register office which is open on Mondays from 9.30am to noon, Wednesdays 10am to 2pm and Fridays 9.30am to noon. To contact the office ring 01663 743841.

PICCAP: Pictured with Councillor Bob Janes (far right) are mobile library users Maureen and Bernard Webb, from Chapel-en-le-Frith.

Visit a Derbyshire County Council mobile library and you could bag yourself a major grant to help you keep warm this winter.

Derbyshire County Council has teamed up with the Government to promote the Warm Front scheme which provides grants of up to £2,700 for home insulation and heating improvements.

Staff on the authority’s 13 mobile libraries will be giving out leaflets throughout October and November promoting the scheme which can provide help with energy-efficient improvements, including installing central heating.

The partnership will be particularly effective in targeting people living in the countryside as the mobile libraries cover many rural areas, visiting dozens of stops every fortnight.

To qualify for a Warm Front grant, householders must own their own home or rent it from a private landlord and must receive certain benefits. You may qualify if you receive an income-related or disability-related benefit, such as Disability Living Allowance or Attendance  Allowance, and you:

• Are aged 60 or over
• Are disabled
• Have a long-term illness
• Have a child under 16 or are pregnant and have been given a MAT B1 certificate.

The grant can pay for things like loft insulation, draught-proofing, cavity wall insulation, hot water tank lagging, heating systems, repairs, energy advice and low-energy lightbulbs.

Councillor Bob Janes, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for cultural and community services, said he was pleased to team up with the Government to ensure people keep warm this winter.

He said: “Thousands of people use our mobile libraries every month to borrow books or hire CDs, videos and DVDs. Our staff will give every visitor a letter explaining the benefits of the scheme. 

“On the back is an application form which explains who qualifies for a grant and can be used to apply for one.”

He added: “Anyone who thinks they might be entitled can fill in the form and will receive free confidential advice on whether or not they are entitled. And even if the person who picks up the leaflet doesn’t qualify, they can pass it on to a friend or relative who might.”

The Warm Front scheme is funded by the Department for the Environment Food and Rural Affairs.

For the county’s mobile library routes go to www.derbyshire.gov.uk/leisure/libraries (opens in a new window)

WARM FRONT: Coal Aston resident Eric Charlesworth is handed a Warm Front leaflet on one of the county council’s mobile libraries by Councillor Bob Janes, the authority’s cabinet member for cultural and community services.

(AJ. 417.06)

Six more Derbyshire schools are to get an £88 million shot-in-the-arm to help transform educational opportunities for pupils.

The Government has agreed to provide Derbyshire County Council with £80 million to rebuild, refurbish or improve the six schools and a further £8 million to install the latest ICT equipment as part of its Building Schools for the Future project.

The schools involved are:

• Tibshelf Community School.
• Mortimer Wilson School in Alfreton.
• Frederick Gent School in South Normanton.
• William Allitt School in Newhall.
• Granville Community School in Woodville.
• Pingle School in Swadlincote.

The cash is on top of £70 million for capital projects and £7 million for ICT improvements that the Government has already agreed to spend on improving:  

• Bolsover School.
• Heritage Community School in Clowne.
• Netherthorpe School in Staveley.
• Shirebrook School.
• Springwell Community School in Staveley.
• Stubbin Wood School in Shirebrook.

Councillor John Williams, leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “Originally the Government had planned to include these six schools in a later phase of the Building Schools for the Future project.

“Their decision to let us bring them in together with the first group of six schools is welcome because it means pupils in other areas of the county will benefit from state-of-the-art schools much sooner than originally planned.

“This is also excellent news for all the communities where these schools are based because the aim is to increase the range of services that operate in and around school premises - both during and outside of the school day.”

The Government has decided to bring forward the building and refurbishment work at the six additional schools as part of an agreement which will see Derbyshire County Council create what is known as a Local Education Partnership (LEP). This is a partnership between the county council and private building contractors that is formed to carry out all building and improvement work costing more than £750,000.

It is intended that the schools in north-east Derbyshire will be rebuilt or refurbished by 2010, with the second group of six being completed by 2012.

All other secondary schools in Derbyshire will receive funding in later stages of the Building Schools for the Future programme and work will be completed by 2020. 

Councillor Williams added: “The Government has already approved our vision for improving all secondary schools in Derbyshire, including those in the later phases of the Building Schools for the Future programme.

“That is because this funding is not just about improving school buildings. It is about rethinking the way we deliver education including vocational qualifications for young people.

“In all the schools we will be consulting with pupils, teachers, governors, parents a