IDRIDGEHAY residents turned out in force on Tuesday to protest about traffic speeding through their village.
The speed limit on the B5023 Wirksworth Road is 30mph but villagers say that cars regularly break the law and travel at 40mph.
Jean Cresswell, who lives on the road and organised the protest said: "All we're trying to do is make this village safer. We struggle to cross the road.
"The police keep saying it's not a priority and that it will not be until we have a fatality – and that is terrible."
David Taylor, chairman of the parish council said: "A lot of people live on the road and find they can't back out of their drives.
"We are just trying to shame the police and the council into doing something.
"If somebody gets killed it would be awful."
Catherine Bowler, who lives on the road also came out to join in the protest.
She said: "We live in a particularly bad spot on a blind bend.
Everytime we drive onto the road we take our life in our hands. It's really quite frightening."
She added that the problem gets worse at the weekends when the road turns into a racetrack for motorcyclists.
"We had a policeman here with a laser gun in June and in two hours he caught six people. It is a real problem. He said he would be back but never came," she said.
"We just wish drivers would travel at 30 miles per hour that is all."
Villagers have written to county councillor Chris Jackson about the problem and have also lobbied their MP.
Concerned residents can now sign a petition that is available in the village shop.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 13:46:07
Monday, October 29, 2007
Second home owners blasted
Wirksworth vigilantes have staged a protest against growing sales of second homes in the town.
Members of the Popular Front for Housing in Wirksworth hung a banner from the Red Lion Pub saying: 'Give us back our homes. No more second homes in Wirksworth' to highlight local people's concerns.
The mysterious campaigners have a growing group of supporters, planning to stage more demonstrations.
According to council figures, for the past three years, at least 30 per cent of houses sold in Wirksworth have been bought for cash.
One concerned resident Nicholas Fischer, who has seen his daughter struggle to buy a house, said: "I have been very surprised at how many people are quite actively interested in this problem. It's not just housing it is the infrastructure of the area which is being ruined.
Second home owners come here and don't spend any money or contribute much to the community.
"I was particularly angry because someone bought three properties in Wirksworth and used them as second homes. They did eventually sell one to let which I don't have a problem with."
Strategic housing manager for the Derbyshire Dales, Rob Cogings said: "Second home owners pay 90 per cent council tax on second homes in the Dales. In other areas it can be as low as 50 per cent."
He added while only 3.5 per cent of houses are second homes in the Dales some areas, such as Wirksworth, had been hit harder.
"It is a problem nationwide but we are a long way behind places like the Lake District and parts of Devon. We are working to keep the level of second homes quite low."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 13:37:38
Members of the Popular Front for Housing in Wirksworth hung a banner from the Red Lion Pub saying: 'Give us back our homes. No more second homes in Wirksworth' to highlight local people's concerns.
The mysterious campaigners have a growing group of supporters, planning to stage more demonstrations.
According to council figures, for the past three years, at least 30 per cent of houses sold in Wirksworth have been bought for cash.
One concerned resident Nicholas Fischer, who has seen his daughter struggle to buy a house, said: "I have been very surprised at how many people are quite actively interested in this problem. It's not just housing it is the infrastructure of the area which is being ruined.
Second home owners come here and don't spend any money or contribute much to the community.
"I was particularly angry because someone bought three properties in Wirksworth and used them as second homes. They did eventually sell one to let which I don't have a problem with."
Strategic housing manager for the Derbyshire Dales, Rob Cogings said: "Second home owners pay 90 per cent council tax on second homes in the Dales. In other areas it can be as low as 50 per cent."
He added while only 3.5 per cent of houses are second homes in the Dales some areas, such as Wirksworth, had been hit harder.
"It is a problem nationwide but we are a long way behind places like the Lake District and parts of Devon. We are working to keep the level of second homes quite low."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 13:37:38
Brewery award
A Dales brewery has taken home an award for a unique joint project with Sheffield University.
Thornbridge, based at Ashford-in-the-Water, was given the prize by the Society of Independent Brewers in recognition of its Brew Team project, in which students helped to develop two new beers that would appeal to college friends.
The beers, Belay Bob and Belay Betty, are now in the university’s bars and several city pubs.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 13:35:19
Thornbridge, based at Ashford-in-the-Water, was given the prize by the Society of Independent Brewers in recognition of its Brew Team project, in which students helped to develop two new beers that would appeal to college friends.
The beers, Belay Bob and Belay Betty, are now in the university’s bars and several city pubs.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 13:35:19
Victorian Weekend's star attraction
ORGANISERS of this year's Matlock Victorian Christmas Weekend have lined up their coolest attraction yet - an ice rink.
The artificial ice pad is being supplied by the Sheffield Ice Ring, and will be open to the public on all three days of the event between Friday November 30 and Sunday December 2.
Skates will be available for hire on site in Hall Leys Park, and event organisers hope the ice rink will help to draw in even more visitors to the popular attraction.
Cllr Geoff Stevens, chairman of the organising committee, said: "This is a great innovation to the event, and is all part of our policy of keeping the traditional elements of the event in place, but introducing new and interesting activities each year.
"It is also hoped that the ITV evening weather forecast will be transmitted from the event making it the first live transmission broadcast to come from Matlock for some time.
"Stall space is selling in advance of last year's level, and all looks set for another wonderful start to the Christmas season in Matlock."
The weekend has once again attracted over 150 stalls in two large marquees and will include a large craft section, farmers market, continental and traditional English market plus the ever-popular mulled wine stall and Santa's Grotto.
Saturday will see the traditional Christmas Parade, which will be co-ordinated by Caroline Dale-Leech of the Red House Stables. The parade will once again be led by Santa and the coach and horses.
On Sunday afternoon Ron Sherwood will be giving a Victorian organ recital at All Saints Church.
The event will conclude with a pop and soul show on the bandstand presented by Christopher Nott, followed by a spectacular Christmas firework display.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 13:32:53
The artificial ice pad is being supplied by the Sheffield Ice Ring, and will be open to the public on all three days of the event between Friday November 30 and Sunday December 2.
Skates will be available for hire on site in Hall Leys Park, and event organisers hope the ice rink will help to draw in even more visitors to the popular attraction.
Cllr Geoff Stevens, chairman of the organising committee, said: "This is a great innovation to the event, and is all part of our policy of keeping the traditional elements of the event in place, but introducing new and interesting activities each year.
"It is also hoped that the ITV evening weather forecast will be transmitted from the event making it the first live transmission broadcast to come from Matlock for some time.
"Stall space is selling in advance of last year's level, and all looks set for another wonderful start to the Christmas season in Matlock."
The weekend has once again attracted over 150 stalls in two large marquees and will include a large craft section, farmers market, continental and traditional English market plus the ever-popular mulled wine stall and Santa's Grotto.
Saturday will see the traditional Christmas Parade, which will be co-ordinated by Caroline Dale-Leech of the Red House Stables. The parade will once again be led by Santa and the coach and horses.
On Sunday afternoon Ron Sherwood will be giving a Victorian organ recital at All Saints Church.
The event will conclude with a pop and soul show on the bandstand presented by Christopher Nott, followed by a spectacular Christmas firework display.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 13:32:53
End of an era – top photographer bows out of Peak District
Ray Manley, one of the best landscape photographers in the country, has retired from the Peak District National Park Authority after 29 years.
Ray’s images have symbolised the National Park in all its moods and seasons during those years, with their striking compositions, turbulent skies and dramatic vistas.
His photographs have appeared in numerous books about the National Park, and his images have graced every National Park document, display, exhibition and poster for nearly three decades. They have also appeared in the national, regional and local press, tourism publications and national park videos.
Nowhere were his skills more evident than at September’s UK Association of National Park Authorities Conference in Buxton, when a constantly changing sequence of Ray’s photographs on a giant screen provided the backdrop to a gala dinner.
He remembers, when he first came to the Peak District from the South coast in 1978, enduring a winter, with snow and ice, of a kind we rarely get any more, and struggling to find remote places he now knows by heart.
“I was so impressed by the dramatic scenery,” he said. “I remember walking all over Edale and the Hope Valley taking pictures for the then new Edale Information Centre, and coming out on my days off to do it all over again – I was so taken with it.”
His favourite landscapes are still in the Dark Peak, above Edale and on Stanage Edge. Ray trained at Manchester College of Art, and in those days he was photographing in black-and-white – which he still prefers. But now Ray is moving back to Southampton to help care for his elderly mother and just take photographs for sheer enjoyment.
National Park chief executive Jim Dixon paid tribute to his skills: “Ray has left a remarkable legacy of landscape pictures that will stand the test of time. His photography sets a standard for how all of us view and represent the Peak District. The sheer quality of his work has made our working lives at the Authority easier - we can impress because of his painstaking images.
“He is a professional who is passionate about the National Park, and he is also modest and loyal, with a circle of friends too many to count. Everyone at the Authority wishes him the very best for a happy retirement.”
Ray’s National Park colleagues bought him a black Labrador pup to accompany him in his retirement. Beats a "golden Handshake" I suppose.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 13:27:17
Ray’s images have symbolised the National Park in all its moods and seasons during those years, with their striking compositions, turbulent skies and dramatic vistas.
His photographs have appeared in numerous books about the National Park, and his images have graced every National Park document, display, exhibition and poster for nearly three decades. They have also appeared in the national, regional and local press, tourism publications and national park videos.
Nowhere were his skills more evident than at September’s UK Association of National Park Authorities Conference in Buxton, when a constantly changing sequence of Ray’s photographs on a giant screen provided the backdrop to a gala dinner.
He remembers, when he first came to the Peak District from the South coast in 1978, enduring a winter, with snow and ice, of a kind we rarely get any more, and struggling to find remote places he now knows by heart.
“I was so impressed by the dramatic scenery,” he said. “I remember walking all over Edale and the Hope Valley taking pictures for the then new Edale Information Centre, and coming out on my days off to do it all over again – I was so taken with it.”
His favourite landscapes are still in the Dark Peak, above Edale and on Stanage Edge. Ray trained at Manchester College of Art, and in those days he was photographing in black-and-white – which he still prefers. But now Ray is moving back to Southampton to help care for his elderly mother and just take photographs for sheer enjoyment.
National Park chief executive Jim Dixon paid tribute to his skills: “Ray has left a remarkable legacy of landscape pictures that will stand the test of time. His photography sets a standard for how all of us view and represent the Peak District. The sheer quality of his work has made our working lives at the Authority easier - we can impress because of his painstaking images.
“He is a professional who is passionate about the National Park, and he is also modest and loyal, with a circle of friends too many to count. Everyone at the Authority wishes him the very best for a happy retirement.”
Ray’s National Park colleagues bought him a black Labrador pup to accompany him in his retirement. Beats a "golden Handshake" I suppose.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 13:27:17
New road has driven down takings claim shopkeepers
Angry traders say they have watched their profits plummet since a new road to relieve congestion was opened in a Derbyshire Dales town.
They believe the A6 relief road, which opened three weeks ago, is redirecting shoppers and tourists away from Matlock and making it difficult for people to visit their town.
Shopkeepers blame the fall in sales on the design of a new one-way system over the old Matlock bridge, which prevents motorists from turning straight into the town centre from the Matlock Bath direction.
They also blame the lack of long-stay parking on the north side of the river and the relocation of the bus station from Bakewell Road to the train station.
Ailna Gill, manager of the M and Co clothes shop in Firs Parade, said her trade had fallen by about 32 per cent when compared to the same time last year.
She called the changes “absolutely diabolical”, adding: “There is just nothing happening at the moment and over the past couple of weeks it has really taken a drop. The relief road is taking everybody out of Matlock and not bringing people into the town.
“If the store does not pick up and we do not get more customers I do not know what will happen.”
Kim Scaife, supervisor at Frankie’s cafe in Crown Square, said that there had been a big decrease in customers and added that it was particularly noticeable over the half-term holidays when she was normally “rushed off her feet”.
She said: “I am not happy with it. In the first week when they first opened the road it was really quiet and so were other businesses.”
She said customers had complained that they could not find any nearby parking and older people had said that it has become too far to walk from the new bus station into the town.
Nigel Allwood who runs a greengrocers in The New Market, in Bakewell Road, believes he has seen a decline in customers because of the location of the new bus station.
He said in the first week takings fell by around 50 per cent and while it has improved since he is still not seeing the same number of customers.
A spokesman for Derbyshire Dales District Council, which is overseeing the changes, said that work was still being carried out on the town centre and accepted that there would be some disruption.
She added: “The project is designed to improve the longer sustainability of Matlock as part of the continuing process of improving the town centre. There is additional parking and improvements are being made to the roads and signage to create a more pedestrian friendly environment.”
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 13:13:08
They believe the A6 relief road, which opened three weeks ago, is redirecting shoppers and tourists away from Matlock and making it difficult for people to visit their town.
Shopkeepers blame the fall in sales on the design of a new one-way system over the old Matlock bridge, which prevents motorists from turning straight into the town centre from the Matlock Bath direction.
They also blame the lack of long-stay parking on the north side of the river and the relocation of the bus station from Bakewell Road to the train station.
Ailna Gill, manager of the M and Co clothes shop in Firs Parade, said her trade had fallen by about 32 per cent when compared to the same time last year.
She called the changes “absolutely diabolical”, adding: “There is just nothing happening at the moment and over the past couple of weeks it has really taken a drop. The relief road is taking everybody out of Matlock and not bringing people into the town.
“If the store does not pick up and we do not get more customers I do not know what will happen.”
Kim Scaife, supervisor at Frankie’s cafe in Crown Square, said that there had been a big decrease in customers and added that it was particularly noticeable over the half-term holidays when she was normally “rushed off her feet”.
She said: “I am not happy with it. In the first week when they first opened the road it was really quiet and so were other businesses.”
She said customers had complained that they could not find any nearby parking and older people had said that it has become too far to walk from the new bus station into the town.
Nigel Allwood who runs a greengrocers in The New Market, in Bakewell Road, believes he has seen a decline in customers because of the location of the new bus station.
He said in the first week takings fell by around 50 per cent and while it has improved since he is still not seeing the same number of customers.
A spokesman for Derbyshire Dales District Council, which is overseeing the changes, said that work was still being carried out on the town centre and accepted that there would be some disruption.
She added: “The project is designed to improve the longer sustainability of Matlock as part of the continuing process of improving the town centre. There is additional parking and improvements are being made to the roads and signage to create a more pedestrian friendly environment.”
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 13:13:08
New powers used on empty houses
Action by a Derbyshire council over empty properties shows it is serious about tackling such problems, the authority has said.
Amber Valley Borough Council moved to use new powers on houses in Somercotes and Ripley which had fallen into disrepair and were attracting vandals.
Officials said the Empty Dwelling Management Orders had forced the owners to repair or sell the properties.
They urged anyone who faced a similar problem to get it touch.
The council said that at any one time there were between 800 and 900 properties in the area that had been empty for six months or more.
Norman Bull from the council emphasised they only used the orders after attempts to negotiate with the owners had failed.
He added: "Properties left empty for long periods of time are a blight on the local neighbourhood - they can attract anti-social behaviour and reduce the value of surrounding properties.
"Taking steps to bring them back into use not only transforms an eyesore property on the street and improves the local environment, but also helps make the community a safer place to live."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 13:08:09
Amber Valley Borough Council moved to use new powers on houses in Somercotes and Ripley which had fallen into disrepair and were attracting vandals.
Officials said the Empty Dwelling Management Orders had forced the owners to repair or sell the properties.
They urged anyone who faced a similar problem to get it touch.
The council said that at any one time there were between 800 and 900 properties in the area that had been empty for six months or more.
Norman Bull from the council emphasised they only used the orders after attempts to negotiate with the owners had failed.
He added: "Properties left empty for long periods of time are a blight on the local neighbourhood - they can attract anti-social behaviour and reduce the value of surrounding properties.
"Taking steps to bring them back into use not only transforms an eyesore property on the street and improves the local environment, but also helps make the community a safer place to live."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 13:08:09
Free tree offer to green borough
Residents in part of Derbyshire are to be given their chance to make the area greener with one of 2,000 free trees.
Erewash Borough Council is giving away the trees to householders who want to make their neighbourhoods more environmentally friendly.
The plants - all native species - will be distributed in Long Eaton Market Place on 30 November and Ilkeston Lower Market Place on 6 December.
The council said more trees were also available to schools and other groups.
Councillor Robert Parkinson said: "It is a wonderful opportunity for people to claim free trees and work with us to improve our local communities."
There is a maximum of five free trees per household for individuals.
Groups can get up to 50 but must apply to the council.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 12:50:36
Erewash Borough Council is giving away the trees to householders who want to make their neighbourhoods more environmentally friendly.
The plants - all native species - will be distributed in Long Eaton Market Place on 30 November and Ilkeston Lower Market Place on 6 December.
The council said more trees were also available to schools and other groups.
Councillor Robert Parkinson said: "It is a wonderful opportunity for people to claim free trees and work with us to improve our local communities."
There is a maximum of five free trees per household for individuals.
Groups can get up to 50 but must apply to the council.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 12:50:36
Old Carol in tune with Christmas booze warning
The Twelve Days of Christmas is being used as the basis of a hard-hitting campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of excess drinking.
Two versions of the classic song have been written for the Christmas clampdown in Amber Valley and have been printed on posters, beer mats and radio adverts.
One of the alternative songs, both of which have been produced by Amber Valley Community Safety Partnership, counts down from 12 shots of vodka, through 10 pals a-punching and on to six faces bleeding.
The other includes lines such as 12 pints of lager and progresses through eight windows broken, five being charged and two given fines.
Both songs, which will also be featured in radio adverts, end with: "And a Christmas ruined by alcohol."
Amber Valley businesses are being asked to display campaign material.
Community safety spokesman Vicki England said: "We certainly don't want to spoil people's fun over the festive season and we know it is a time when people can relax and have a few drinks with friends.
"At the same time, we do want to encourage people to think about what can happen if they lose control through drinking."
Haven't they got better things to spend ratepayers money on?
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 12:40:31
Two versions of the classic song have been written for the Christmas clampdown in Amber Valley and have been printed on posters, beer mats and radio adverts.
One of the alternative songs, both of which have been produced by Amber Valley Community Safety Partnership, counts down from 12 shots of vodka, through 10 pals a-punching and on to six faces bleeding.
The other includes lines such as 12 pints of lager and progresses through eight windows broken, five being charged and two given fines.
Both songs, which will also be featured in radio adverts, end with: "And a Christmas ruined by alcohol."
Amber Valley businesses are being asked to display campaign material.
Community safety spokesman Vicki England said: "We certainly don't want to spoil people's fun over the festive season and we know it is a time when people can relax and have a few drinks with friends.
"At the same time, we do want to encourage people to think about what can happen if they lose control through drinking."
Haven't they got better things to spend ratepayers money on?
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 12:40:31
£3.7m cost of castle as lease talks drag on
New figures have revealed that £3.7m of public money has been spent maintaining and running Elvaston Castle during the past five years.
Owner Derbyshire County Council has been trying to dispose of the castle since 1999 because it considered the estimated £500,000-a-year running costs were too high.
But, using figures obtained through a Freedom of Information request, the true cost of maintaining the building and its grounds was £798,161 last year and a total of £3,775,605 over the past five financial years. Last year, the council selected developer Highgate Sanctuary to take on a 150-year lease for the castle and part of the grounds.
The company plans to turn the castle into a hotel and create a golf course but has yet to sign the lease.
The castle's historic core gardens would remain open to the public after being transformed with a £10m Heritage Lottery grant, which is still being sought by the council.
However, people campaigning to keep the castle and grounds open to the public say the council should be doing more to generate money from the estate.
Graham Mansey, a spokesman for the Friends of Elvaston Castle pressure group, said that the council should make more of an effort to collect car parking fees and should increase the present £1.50 all-day charge.
Figures obtained through the Freedom of Information request show £58,000 was collected in parking fees last year and a total of £306,021 during the past five years.
The council estimates that 3.1 million people visited the hall and its grounds in the last five years, with 606,659 visiting last year.
Mr Mansey said: "There have been many instances recently when the car park ticket office has been closed, even when there have been major events."
He said the council missed out on thousands of pounds in parking fees during the Elvaston Steam Rally on September 1, which attracted 12,000 people, because the ticket office was closed.
Council chief executive Nick Hodgson said that even a significant increase in parking charges would not cover the castle's bill. He said: "We've talked about putting parking charges up but local people would be very against that.
"I don't know whether we failed to charge people during the steam rally but, if we did, it was a missed opportunity."
The Friends of Elvaston Castle have also suggested that Derby City, South Derbyshire District and Erewash Borough councils should help to pay for the castle because people from their areas all visited the attraction.
But all three councils said they were unable to provide any money.
City council leader Chris Williamson said the authority had to prioritise projects within central Derby.
He said: "Resources are very tight and we have got enough on our plate."
Mr Hodgson said progress was being made on the deal with Highgate Sanctuary. He said: "Big projects do take a long time to organise."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 12:33:33
Owner Derbyshire County Council has been trying to dispose of the castle since 1999 because it considered the estimated £500,000-a-year running costs were too high.
But, using figures obtained through a Freedom of Information request, the true cost of maintaining the building and its grounds was £798,161 last year and a total of £3,775,605 over the past five financial years. Last year, the council selected developer Highgate Sanctuary to take on a 150-year lease for the castle and part of the grounds.
The company plans to turn the castle into a hotel and create a golf course but has yet to sign the lease.
The castle's historic core gardens would remain open to the public after being transformed with a £10m Heritage Lottery grant, which is still being sought by the council.
However, people campaigning to keep the castle and grounds open to the public say the council should be doing more to generate money from the estate.
Graham Mansey, a spokesman for the Friends of Elvaston Castle pressure group, said that the council should make more of an effort to collect car parking fees and should increase the present £1.50 all-day charge.
Figures obtained through the Freedom of Information request show £58,000 was collected in parking fees last year and a total of £306,021 during the past five years.
The council estimates that 3.1 million people visited the hall and its grounds in the last five years, with 606,659 visiting last year.
Mr Mansey said: "There have been many instances recently when the car park ticket office has been closed, even when there have been major events."
He said the council missed out on thousands of pounds in parking fees during the Elvaston Steam Rally on September 1, which attracted 12,000 people, because the ticket office was closed.
Council chief executive Nick Hodgson said that even a significant increase in parking charges would not cover the castle's bill. He said: "We've talked about putting parking charges up but local people would be very against that.
"I don't know whether we failed to charge people during the steam rally but, if we did, it was a missed opportunity."
The Friends of Elvaston Castle have also suggested that Derby City, South Derbyshire District and Erewash Borough councils should help to pay for the castle because people from their areas all visited the attraction.
But all three councils said they were unable to provide any money.
City council leader Chris Williamson said the authority had to prioritise projects within central Derby.
He said: "Resources are very tight and we have got enough on our plate."
Mr Hodgson said progress was being made on the deal with Highgate Sanctuary. He said: "Big projects do take a long time to organise."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 12:33:33
Pearson replaces Gadsby as Rams chairman
Peter Gadsby today stepped down as chairman of Derby County and handed the role to new board member Adam Pearson.
Pearson is believed to have made an investment of about £3.5m and will also take on the day-to-day running of the club.
The former Hull City chairman has purchased a "substantial" block of Gadsby's shares and becomes the largest shareholder on the board.
Gadsby remains on the board and has retained some of his shareholding.
Below is the statement from Derby County Football Club in full:
Derby County Football Club announced today (Monday October 29, 2007) that Adam Pearson is joining the Board with immediate effect as Executive Chairman.
Welcoming the announcement, out-going Chairman Peter Gadsby, who remains on the Board, said: "The first point I want to make clear is that Adam joining the club does not represent a takeover of Derby County.
"We wanted to introduce someone to the Board who could take us forward in terms of the running of the club and was prepared to put in an investment of his own as a demonstration of his commitment to Derby County.
"When the current Board of local people took control 18 months ago this club was in turmoil having accumulated around £54-million of debt during the previous three or four years. The process to gain control began in earnest around two years ago - a complex process which was almost a full-time job during the negotiations.
"Once control had been achieved we laid down our three-year plan for Derby County."
Mr Gadsby said the main priorities were:
* To achieve financial security for the club and reduce significantly the debt
* To address the football side of the business and make significant improvements to on-field performances
* To regain the faith and confidence of fans and corporate partners
"Mr Gadsby went on: "As an integral part of this process, Derby County recruited a first class manager with proven abilities who, while beginning his process of building a competitive squad of players, surpassed all expectations by gaining promotion in year one of the three-year plan."
He said two things happened following promotion:
1. Although gaining promotion was achieved via a truly fantastic day at the new Wembley Stadium, Derby County was in effect a number of weeks behind other Premier League clubs in terms of planning for the 2007/08 season.
2. Promotion coincided with a significant increase in Premier League revenues and clubs already secure in the division used these future funds to invest heavily in their squads.
"Derby County therefore found itself immediately at a disadvantage to other clubs in the league," said Mr Gadsby, "and we have been playing catch-up from day one. This is a situation I believe will be repeated for many years to come for clubs promoted by the play-off route unless significant external investment is found to support promotion.
"Derby County's turnover will increase to around £50-million this season from around £15-million in our last Championship season. This turnover growth is backed by the excellent support both from our fans and corporate customers. Our average attendances this year are expected to be in the top 12 in the country, supporting our view that Derby County is indeed a big club.
"However, as Chairman, I was surprised by the aspirations and levels of expectation of some of our fans, particularly over the club's perceived lack of investment in the playing squad just five games into the current season. Other newcomers to the Premier League have demonstrated in previous seasons that it is very difficult to immediately attract the so-called big-name signings all fans want.
"While accepting that investment in the team is critical, the Board, which, do not forget, comprises local business people who live and work in the community, did not want to overstretch the club's finances and risk returning Derby County to the previous cycles of feast and famine.
"This predicament led the Board some weeks ago to consider how to take the club to the next level. It was felt the time was right to seek further external finance that would enable us to compete, taking the opportunity to maximise the advantage created by our Premier League status. We also felt we had an attractive squad of young talent that would appeal to outsiders looking in.
"The club has received a number of approaches from potential investors - some genuine, some not - but the Board felt certain approaches should be explored further, particularly as the trend for foreign investment into English football was likely to continue. To compete, we realised we needed to consider all options.
"However, these sorts of considerations and negotiations take an inordinate amount of time. Along with the additional activity brought about by promotion, I, like other football Chairmen, found myself working almost full-time at the club. I have substantial business interests of my own and I felt I was not doing either business proper service by spreading myself too thinly.
"With the proposed £20-million development of Pride Plaza, which will improve significantly the off-field outlook for the club, these time pressures were only likely to intensify.
"The Board's first priority when meeting various parties interested in investing in the club was that if any transfer of ownership was to occur, it must be to people we believed had the necessary funds and desire to take Derby County forward. Under no circumstances did we wish to return the club to the problems suffered under the previous regime, and I know the fans will trust our judgement in this.
"During this process, some of which has been in the public domain, Adam Pearson, someone I have known personally through football for many years, expressed an interest in becoming involved with the club. For a number of reasons however, it was not going to be possible for him to take over the club in its entirety.
"We felt Adam would be an ideal person to drive the club in terms of attracting the desired additional investment. He also has a first class record on the commercial side of every business he has been involved in and all the credentials and abilities to take advantage of the profile of English football today.
"He has significant top-level experience at major football clubs and, most recently, has achieved remarkable success at Hull City, guiding them to promotion to the Championship, building a new stadium and ultimately taking the club into new ownership with the ability to move to the next level. After achieving all this, Adam feels ready for a fresh challenge - and I believe it is important we now have an executive in charge of the day-to-day operation who has equity in the company.
"No-one on the Board had the time resource to commit to the Chairmanship and, for the reasons I have already stated, I felt strongly that it was time for me to take more of a back seat.
"The Board felt therefore it was appropriate to invite Adam onto the Board, an opportunity he accepted. I apologise about the secrecy we have had to maintain over recent days, but it was a necessary part of the process.
"To enable this arrangement to happen, bearing in mind this is not a takeover of the club, Adam has agreed to become Executive Chairman - a key role for the club. To facilitate this I have transferred a substantial block of my own shareholding to him, at the price I paid. I want to make it clear I have made no money from this transfer. The transfer enables Adam to become the largest shareholder and to Chair the Board. I will retain some of my shareholding and will remain an active member of this Board."
Mr Gadsby added: "Looking forward this means the club has, without major upset or turmoil, facilitated a new Chair and helped provide the foundations to seek future investment - which I am confident will happen - to bolster the playing squad and enable us to compete.
"I want to take this opportunity to thank the fans and my fellow Board members for their fantastic support during the past two years. I also want it to be known that I have enjoyed a first class relationship with Billy Davies, the manager I am convinced is the right man to retain our Premier League status.
"The success of the last 18 months could not have happened without Billy and I have enjoyed working with him and his backroom team."
Mr Pearson said: "I am obviously delighted to have taken on the mantle of Chairman of Derby County Football Club. I would like to thank Peter Gadsby for completing the share transaction so professionally and inviting me on behalf of the Board to have responsibility for continuing the fine development achieved under his tenure.
"The progress achieved by Peter and the Board over the last 18 months has been quite remarkable with the club returned to the Premier League and financial stability achieved well ahead of the initial timescales set. Perhaps with Peter now on the Board in a non Executive role he can return to enjoying his matches at Pride Park again!
"I will be responsible for finding the significant external funding that all Premier League clubs require in order to compete on the very biggest stage. Many Premier League clubs are seeking the same potential investment but I am confident that over the coming months this required investment will be found and accelerate the growth and development of the club even further. All big clubs now need significant external funding and it is my responsibility to find this so that Billy Davies can continue to invest in the playing squad.
"In addition to securing significant new funds it will be my responsibility in conjunction with the executive team already in place to substantially grow and develop all possible revenue streams into the club. In order to maximize our income Peter believed the club needed an Executive Chairman who can dedicate his entire focus to the crucial role of securing the maximum revenue growth for the club.
"Due to the enormous commitments locally of Peter and the Board it has not been possible to concentrate enough time and focus on this much needed revenue strategy. Having a major shareholder driving the business day to day will allow an extremely capable management team off the pitch to drive the club forward under my stewardship to compete favourably with the other similarly large clubs in the Premier League.
"The Board and I will continue to offer Billy Davies our full support in our quest to remain in the Premier League and we will be exploring all possible options available to ensure a successful transfer window in January. We firmly believe we have the manager and backroom team in place to continue the remarkable progress achieved on the pitch by Billy and his squad over the last 18 months.
"The search for investment will be privately managed and extremely focused on known potential markets. There will be no further public discussion or media speculation on the subject of external investment until it is secured, and in the meantime we will of course continue to focus on the existing business off the pitch and the strength of the team on it.
"The club will continue to move forward at a pace that respects the outstanding commitment that it receives from its large and loyal fan base and on behalf of the Board I would like to thank you for your outstanding and continued support of Derby County Football Club."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 12:31:53
Pearson is believed to have made an investment of about £3.5m and will also take on the day-to-day running of the club.
The former Hull City chairman has purchased a "substantial" block of Gadsby's shares and becomes the largest shareholder on the board.
Gadsby remains on the board and has retained some of his shareholding.
Below is the statement from Derby County Football Club in full:
Derby County Football Club announced today (Monday October 29, 2007) that Adam Pearson is joining the Board with immediate effect as Executive Chairman.
Welcoming the announcement, out-going Chairman Peter Gadsby, who remains on the Board, said: "The first point I want to make clear is that Adam joining the club does not represent a takeover of Derby County.
"We wanted to introduce someone to the Board who could take us forward in terms of the running of the club and was prepared to put in an investment of his own as a demonstration of his commitment to Derby County.
"When the current Board of local people took control 18 months ago this club was in turmoil having accumulated around £54-million of debt during the previous three or four years. The process to gain control began in earnest around two years ago - a complex process which was almost a full-time job during the negotiations.
"Once control had been achieved we laid down our three-year plan for Derby County."
Mr Gadsby said the main priorities were:
* To achieve financial security for the club and reduce significantly the debt
* To address the football side of the business and make significant improvements to on-field performances
* To regain the faith and confidence of fans and corporate partners
"Mr Gadsby went on: "As an integral part of this process, Derby County recruited a first class manager with proven abilities who, while beginning his process of building a competitive squad of players, surpassed all expectations by gaining promotion in year one of the three-year plan."
He said two things happened following promotion:
1. Although gaining promotion was achieved via a truly fantastic day at the new Wembley Stadium, Derby County was in effect a number of weeks behind other Premier League clubs in terms of planning for the 2007/08 season.
2. Promotion coincided with a significant increase in Premier League revenues and clubs already secure in the division used these future funds to invest heavily in their squads.
"Derby County therefore found itself immediately at a disadvantage to other clubs in the league," said Mr Gadsby, "and we have been playing catch-up from day one. This is a situation I believe will be repeated for many years to come for clubs promoted by the play-off route unless significant external investment is found to support promotion.
"Derby County's turnover will increase to around £50-million this season from around £15-million in our last Championship season. This turnover growth is backed by the excellent support both from our fans and corporate customers. Our average attendances this year are expected to be in the top 12 in the country, supporting our view that Derby County is indeed a big club.
"However, as Chairman, I was surprised by the aspirations and levels of expectation of some of our fans, particularly over the club's perceived lack of investment in the playing squad just five games into the current season. Other newcomers to the Premier League have demonstrated in previous seasons that it is very difficult to immediately attract the so-called big-name signings all fans want.
"While accepting that investment in the team is critical, the Board, which, do not forget, comprises local business people who live and work in the community, did not want to overstretch the club's finances and risk returning Derby County to the previous cycles of feast and famine.
"This predicament led the Board some weeks ago to consider how to take the club to the next level. It was felt the time was right to seek further external finance that would enable us to compete, taking the opportunity to maximise the advantage created by our Premier League status. We also felt we had an attractive squad of young talent that would appeal to outsiders looking in.
"The club has received a number of approaches from potential investors - some genuine, some not - but the Board felt certain approaches should be explored further, particularly as the trend for foreign investment into English football was likely to continue. To compete, we realised we needed to consider all options.
"However, these sorts of considerations and negotiations take an inordinate amount of time. Along with the additional activity brought about by promotion, I, like other football Chairmen, found myself working almost full-time at the club. I have substantial business interests of my own and I felt I was not doing either business proper service by spreading myself too thinly.
"With the proposed £20-million development of Pride Plaza, which will improve significantly the off-field outlook for the club, these time pressures were only likely to intensify.
"The Board's first priority when meeting various parties interested in investing in the club was that if any transfer of ownership was to occur, it must be to people we believed had the necessary funds and desire to take Derby County forward. Under no circumstances did we wish to return the club to the problems suffered under the previous regime, and I know the fans will trust our judgement in this.
"During this process, some of which has been in the public domain, Adam Pearson, someone I have known personally through football for many years, expressed an interest in becoming involved with the club. For a number of reasons however, it was not going to be possible for him to take over the club in its entirety.
"We felt Adam would be an ideal person to drive the club in terms of attracting the desired additional investment. He also has a first class record on the commercial side of every business he has been involved in and all the credentials and abilities to take advantage of the profile of English football today.
"He has significant top-level experience at major football clubs and, most recently, has achieved remarkable success at Hull City, guiding them to promotion to the Championship, building a new stadium and ultimately taking the club into new ownership with the ability to move to the next level. After achieving all this, Adam feels ready for a fresh challenge - and I believe it is important we now have an executive in charge of the day-to-day operation who has equity in the company.
"No-one on the Board had the time resource to commit to the Chairmanship and, for the reasons I have already stated, I felt strongly that it was time for me to take more of a back seat.
"The Board felt therefore it was appropriate to invite Adam onto the Board, an opportunity he accepted. I apologise about the secrecy we have had to maintain over recent days, but it was a necessary part of the process.
"To enable this arrangement to happen, bearing in mind this is not a takeover of the club, Adam has agreed to become Executive Chairman - a key role for the club. To facilitate this I have transferred a substantial block of my own shareholding to him, at the price I paid. I want to make it clear I have made no money from this transfer. The transfer enables Adam to become the largest shareholder and to Chair the Board. I will retain some of my shareholding and will remain an active member of this Board."
Mr Gadsby added: "Looking forward this means the club has, without major upset or turmoil, facilitated a new Chair and helped provide the foundations to seek future investment - which I am confident will happen - to bolster the playing squad and enable us to compete.
"I want to take this opportunity to thank the fans and my fellow Board members for their fantastic support during the past two years. I also want it to be known that I have enjoyed a first class relationship with Billy Davies, the manager I am convinced is the right man to retain our Premier League status.
"The success of the last 18 months could not have happened without Billy and I have enjoyed working with him and his backroom team."
Mr Pearson said: "I am obviously delighted to have taken on the mantle of Chairman of Derby County Football Club. I would like to thank Peter Gadsby for completing the share transaction so professionally and inviting me on behalf of the Board to have responsibility for continuing the fine development achieved under his tenure.
"The progress achieved by Peter and the Board over the last 18 months has been quite remarkable with the club returned to the Premier League and financial stability achieved well ahead of the initial timescales set. Perhaps with Peter now on the Board in a non Executive role he can return to enjoying his matches at Pride Park again!
"I will be responsible for finding the significant external funding that all Premier League clubs require in order to compete on the very biggest stage. Many Premier League clubs are seeking the same potential investment but I am confident that over the coming months this required investment will be found and accelerate the growth and development of the club even further. All big clubs now need significant external funding and it is my responsibility to find this so that Billy Davies can continue to invest in the playing squad.
"In addition to securing significant new funds it will be my responsibility in conjunction with the executive team already in place to substantially grow and develop all possible revenue streams into the club. In order to maximize our income Peter believed the club needed an Executive Chairman who can dedicate his entire focus to the crucial role of securing the maximum revenue growth for the club.
"Due to the enormous commitments locally of Peter and the Board it has not been possible to concentrate enough time and focus on this much needed revenue strategy. Having a major shareholder driving the business day to day will allow an extremely capable management team off the pitch to drive the club forward under my stewardship to compete favourably with the other similarly large clubs in the Premier League.
"The Board and I will continue to offer Billy Davies our full support in our quest to remain in the Premier League and we will be exploring all possible options available to ensure a successful transfer window in January. We firmly believe we have the manager and backroom team in place to continue the remarkable progress achieved on the pitch by Billy and his squad over the last 18 months.
"The search for investment will be privately managed and extremely focused on known potential markets. There will be no further public discussion or media speculation on the subject of external investment until it is secured, and in the meantime we will of course continue to focus on the existing business off the pitch and the strength of the team on it.
"The club will continue to move forward at a pace that respects the outstanding commitment that it receives from its large and loyal fan base and on behalf of the Board I would like to thank you for your outstanding and continued support of Derby County Football Club."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-29 12:31:53
Everton add to Derby's woes
Derby County slumped to their seventh Premier League defeat in 11 games after a comfortable 2-0 victory for Everton.
The Rams struggled to create against a disciplined Toffees side, and goals from Mikel Arteta and Yakubu Aiyegbeni secured the points for David Moyes' men.
Arteta's first goal of the season handed Everton the lead, and it came courtesy of an excellent Yakubu dummy which bamboozled the Derby defence.
The Nigerian striker was then on target after finding himself in acres of space to slot home with ease.
Arteta should have scored in the third minute when he was presented with a glorious opportunity from Leighton Baines' left-wing cross but side-footed a poor effort straight at Stephen Bywater.
Two minutes later Leighton Baines cut into the Rams box unchallenged and set up a chance for Steven Pienaar who mis-kicked in front of goal. Tim Cahill was inches wide with a header when the ball was punted back into the box.
With the Rams showing next to nothing, Everton snatched the lead in the 26th minute with a swift counter-attack begun by Phil Jagielka's long ball forward from the half-way line.
Yakubu played a clever dummy which caught out the home defence and gifted Arteta a clear run on goal, with the Spaniard taking full advantage with a low shot under Bywater.
The spluttering Rams responded with a low long-range shot from Stephen Pearson which was well saved by Howard but that proved the best of what passed for their first half chances.
It was business as usual after the break, with Joseph Yobo inches away from extending Everton's lead in the 47th minute when he flashed a header from a Cahill corner inches wide.
With the Rams continuing to offer nothing in attack boss Billy Davies finally decided to introduce record signing Rob Earnshaw in the 57th minute in place of Eddie Lewis.
It was only the second time in seven matches the £3.5million summer buy from Norwich had been given a chance to impress and his goalscoring instincts were certainly required by the lacklustre home side.
They were required more than ever after 62 minutes when Pienaar played a low ball into the Rams box and dismal defending enabled Yakubu to skip through unchallenged and hit a low left-foot shot past Bywater.
The visitors proceeded to coast through the final half hour of a forgettable match with Earnshaw hardly getting a kick and Moyes' men happy enough to simply get back to winning ways.
Billy Davies gave a sobering analysis of the 2-0 home defeat to Everton, admitting his side “just didn’t have the quality”.
The Derby manager also indicated to his bosses that investment is needed if Derby are to bridge the gulf in class and survive in the Premiership,
“The incentive was there for us to win, but our quality wasn’t there.”
“We didn’t deserve anything from the game.
"Everton thoroughly deserve the three points because they passed it better, crossed it better and took the chances that fell their way.”
“Sometimes you have to put your hand up and say they’ve got better quality than us.
“What we need to do now is rebuild again and make changes in the next transfer window.”
As one fan said to me after the game "I wish we were still in the championship, at least we played good football and won matches."
Well, my friend, on this showing your wish will most certainly come true!
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-28 23:48:51
The Rams struggled to create against a disciplined Toffees side, and goals from Mikel Arteta and Yakubu Aiyegbeni secured the points for David Moyes' men.
Arteta's first goal of the season handed Everton the lead, and it came courtesy of an excellent Yakubu dummy which bamboozled the Derby defence.
The Nigerian striker was then on target after finding himself in acres of space to slot home with ease.
Arteta should have scored in the third minute when he was presented with a glorious opportunity from Leighton Baines' left-wing cross but side-footed a poor effort straight at Stephen Bywater.
Two minutes later Leighton Baines cut into the Rams box unchallenged and set up a chance for Steven Pienaar who mis-kicked in front of goal. Tim Cahill was inches wide with a header when the ball was punted back into the box.
With the Rams showing next to nothing, Everton snatched the lead in the 26th minute with a swift counter-attack begun by Phil Jagielka's long ball forward from the half-way line.
Yakubu played a clever dummy which caught out the home defence and gifted Arteta a clear run on goal, with the Spaniard taking full advantage with a low shot under Bywater.
The spluttering Rams responded with a low long-range shot from Stephen Pearson which was well saved by Howard but that proved the best of what passed for their first half chances.
It was business as usual after the break, with Joseph Yobo inches away from extending Everton's lead in the 47th minute when he flashed a header from a Cahill corner inches wide.
With the Rams continuing to offer nothing in attack boss Billy Davies finally decided to introduce record signing Rob Earnshaw in the 57th minute in place of Eddie Lewis.
It was only the second time in seven matches the £3.5million summer buy from Norwich had been given a chance to impress and his goalscoring instincts were certainly required by the lacklustre home side.
They were required more than ever after 62 minutes when Pienaar played a low ball into the Rams box and dismal defending enabled Yakubu to skip through unchallenged and hit a low left-foot shot past Bywater.
The visitors proceeded to coast through the final half hour of a forgettable match with Earnshaw hardly getting a kick and Moyes' men happy enough to simply get back to winning ways.
Billy Davies gave a sobering analysis of the 2-0 home defeat to Everton, admitting his side “just didn’t have the quality”.
The Derby manager also indicated to his bosses that investment is needed if Derby are to bridge the gulf in class and survive in the Premiership,
“The incentive was there for us to win, but our quality wasn’t there.”
“We didn’t deserve anything from the game.
"Everton thoroughly deserve the three points because they passed it better, crossed it better and took the chances that fell their way.”
“Sometimes you have to put your hand up and say they’ve got better quality than us.
“What we need to do now is rebuild again and make changes in the next transfer window.”
As one fan said to me after the game "I wish we were still in the championship, at least we played good football and won matches."
Well, my friend, on this showing your wish will most certainly come true!
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-28 23:48:51
Pearson is 'on verge' of making Rams move
Former Hull City chairman Adam Pearson is believed to be on the verge of making an investment in Derby County.
Pearson was unavailable for comment yesterday and the Rams are remaining tight-lipped as rumours intensify.
“We are not prepared to comment on speculation,” said a club spokesman last night but it is understood there could be an official announcement next week.
Pearson could be heading for a place on the Rams board and may fill the role of managing director, following the departure of chief executive Trevor Birch.
Birch had been in the post for four months and neither he or the club have given a reason for his surprise exit.
Derby have made no secret of the fact they are seeking new investment and Pearson is keen to make a return to football.
The 43-year-old had a stint as commercial manager at Leeds United before rescuing Hull.
He turned around the fortunes of the club and is believed to have made in the region of £4.5m from its sale in the summer.
He recently withdrew a £3m-plus offer to buy Huddersfield Town, the club he has supported since a boy.
Reports in Yorkshire said Pearson wanted more than a 40 per cent shareholding in return for his investment but this was rejected by owner Ken Davey.
Pearson will now look elsewhere.
“I will go and pursue opportunities where the door is easier to open and where I am being welcomed through it,” he has been quoted as saying.
“I've had lots of people on the phone asking if I would like to get involved with them, so I would imagine in the next few weeks I'll pick a club and do it.”
Pearson was a hands-on chairman at Hull and responsible for the day-to-day running of the club.
Speculation over investment and talk of possible takeovers has surrounded the Rams for a number of weeks.
Asked if it was a distraction, manager Billy Davies said: “It's not for me.
“I've got my job to do preparing the team.
“I don't think it affects the players. Our jobs as managers, coaches and players is the football. Whatever takes place at board level is up to the owners of the club.”
Derby say the day-to-day running of the club following Birch's departure is in the hands of operations director John Vickers, commercial director Perry Deakin and finance director Martin Ridgeway.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-26 14:03:46
Pearson was unavailable for comment yesterday and the Rams are remaining tight-lipped as rumours intensify.
“We are not prepared to comment on speculation,” said a club spokesman last night but it is understood there could be an official announcement next week.
Pearson could be heading for a place on the Rams board and may fill the role of managing director, following the departure of chief executive Trevor Birch.
Birch had been in the post for four months and neither he or the club have given a reason for his surprise exit.
Derby have made no secret of the fact they are seeking new investment and Pearson is keen to make a return to football.
The 43-year-old had a stint as commercial manager at Leeds United before rescuing Hull.
He turned around the fortunes of the club and is believed to have made in the region of £4.5m from its sale in the summer.
He recently withdrew a £3m-plus offer to buy Huddersfield Town, the club he has supported since a boy.
Reports in Yorkshire said Pearson wanted more than a 40 per cent shareholding in return for his investment but this was rejected by owner Ken Davey.
Pearson will now look elsewhere.
“I will go and pursue opportunities where the door is easier to open and where I am being welcomed through it,” he has been quoted as saying.
“I've had lots of people on the phone asking if I would like to get involved with them, so I would imagine in the next few weeks I'll pick a club and do it.”
Pearson was a hands-on chairman at Hull and responsible for the day-to-day running of the club.
Speculation over investment and talk of possible takeovers has surrounded the Rams for a number of weeks.
Asked if it was a distraction, manager Billy Davies said: “It's not for me.
“I've got my job to do preparing the team.
“I don't think it affects the players. Our jobs as managers, coaches and players is the football. Whatever takes place at board level is up to the owners of the club.”
Derby say the day-to-day running of the club following Birch's departure is in the hands of operations director John Vickers, commercial director Perry Deakin and finance director Martin Ridgeway.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-26 14:03:46
Derbyshire sign Sri Lanka captain
Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene will play English county cricket for Derbyshire next year, the county's official website said.
Jayawardene, 30, will turn out for the county from the end of April to mid-July before returning home for Sri Lanka's Test commitments, the website said.
"Signing such a world-class player and current international captain is a massive boost for the club ahead of the 2008 season," Derbyshire chairman Don Amott said.
"I can't wait to see Mahela -- as well as the likes of Rikki Clarke, Nayan Doshi, John Sadler and Wavell Hinds -- in action in a Derbyshire shirt and I am sure the members and supporters share my excitement."
Jayawardene, who leads Sri Lanka in a two-Test series in Australia next month, was voted the International Cricket Council's captain of the year in 2006.
The 88-Test veteran has scored 6,630 runs at an average of 49.84 with 18 centuries, including a best of 374 against South Africa in Colombo last year.
He has also played 261 one-day internationals with 7,232 runs and led Sri Lanka to the World Cup final in the Caribbean earlier this year.
Derbyshire's head of cricket John Morris said he was delighted that Jayawardene had signed.
"I knew that he was the right player after I had spoken to him and I could tell that he has the desire to play county cricket and contribute both experience and flair to Derbyshire's batting line-up," said Morris.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-26 13:51:32
Jayawardene, 30, will turn out for the county from the end of April to mid-July before returning home for Sri Lanka's Test commitments, the website said.
"Signing such a world-class player and current international captain is a massive boost for the club ahead of the 2008 season," Derbyshire chairman Don Amott said.
"I can't wait to see Mahela -- as well as the likes of Rikki Clarke, Nayan Doshi, John Sadler and Wavell Hinds -- in action in a Derbyshire shirt and I am sure the members and supporters share my excitement."
Jayawardene, who leads Sri Lanka in a two-Test series in Australia next month, was voted the International Cricket Council's captain of the year in 2006.
The 88-Test veteran has scored 6,630 runs at an average of 49.84 with 18 centuries, including a best of 374 against South Africa in Colombo last year.
He has also played 261 one-day internationals with 7,232 runs and led Sri Lanka to the World Cup final in the Caribbean earlier this year.
Derbyshire's head of cricket John Morris said he was delighted that Jayawardene had signed.
"I knew that he was the right player after I had spoken to him and I could tell that he has the desire to play county cricket and contribute both experience and flair to Derbyshire's batting line-up," said Morris.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-26 13:51:32
Crime in Derbyshire on the increase
Crime in Derbyshire has risen during the past six months, figures show.
But the police said that residents should not worry about the increase, which follows years of success in keeping crime rates down.
The figures show that, between April 1 and September 30, there were 39,873 offences overall, compared with 38,082 during the same period last year - a 4.7 per cent increase.
Violent crime increased from 8,845 to 9,764 (10.4 per cent), which was in line with the national trend, and vehicle crime rose from 4,398 to 4,518 (2.7 per cent).
House burglaries fell from 1,897 to 1,826 (3.7 per cent) and criminal damage and arson dropped from 9,385 to 9,007 (four per cent).
Former chief constable David Coleman said earlier this year that, after years of falling crime rates, it was inevitable that the trend would eventually change.
But a force spokeswoman said that campaigns such as the current Operation Relentless Two - a two-month blitz targeting violent crime and anti-social behaviour with increased patrols and covert operations - were being int-roduced to try to halt the slide.
And, although crime increased during the first six months of 2007-8, the number of overall crimes solved in the period rose from 25.1 per cent to 28.5 per cent.
The spokeswoman said: "We recognise there's been a rise in crime in some areas and that's one of the reasons we've brought Operation Relentless back to try and tackle it.
"Crime figures do fluctuate but we've had exceptionally low figures in recent years.
"In comparison with other areas, Derbyshire is a very safe place to live."
Figures released earlier this year showed that crime in the county had risen from 80,106 offences during the whole of 2005-6, compared with 81,037 in 2006-7 - a rise of 1.2 per cent.
But the figures followed three years of success in reducing crime in the county and Derbyshire still had the 13th lowest crime rate of the 43 constabularies in England and Wales.
This had been achieved despite Derbyshire police being one of the most understaffed forces in the country.
New Chief Constable Mick Creedon said that he needed an extra 200 officers to help Derbyshire improve.
But both Mr Creedon and Derbyshire Police Authority chairman Janet Birkin said that could not be achieved without realistic Government funding.
Long-serving police authority member Eric Lancashire said: "There's been such a rapid reduction in crime in recent years, there's got to be a point where there's a blip.
"But we must keep it in proportion. Derbyshire is still the safest county in the East Midlands."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-26 13:20:27
But the police said that residents should not worry about the increase, which follows years of success in keeping crime rates down.
The figures show that, between April 1 and September 30, there were 39,873 offences overall, compared with 38,082 during the same period last year - a 4.7 per cent increase.
Violent crime increased from 8,845 to 9,764 (10.4 per cent), which was in line with the national trend, and vehicle crime rose from 4,398 to 4,518 (2.7 per cent).
House burglaries fell from 1,897 to 1,826 (3.7 per cent) and criminal damage and arson dropped from 9,385 to 9,007 (four per cent).
Former chief constable David Coleman said earlier this year that, after years of falling crime rates, it was inevitable that the trend would eventually change.
But a force spokeswoman said that campaigns such as the current Operation Relentless Two - a two-month blitz targeting violent crime and anti-social behaviour with increased patrols and covert operations - were being int-roduced to try to halt the slide.
And, although crime increased during the first six months of 2007-8, the number of overall crimes solved in the period rose from 25.1 per cent to 28.5 per cent.
The spokeswoman said: "We recognise there's been a rise in crime in some areas and that's one of the reasons we've brought Operation Relentless back to try and tackle it.
"Crime figures do fluctuate but we've had exceptionally low figures in recent years.
"In comparison with other areas, Derbyshire is a very safe place to live."
Figures released earlier this year showed that crime in the county had risen from 80,106 offences during the whole of 2005-6, compared with 81,037 in 2006-7 - a rise of 1.2 per cent.
But the figures followed three years of success in reducing crime in the county and Derbyshire still had the 13th lowest crime rate of the 43 constabularies in England and Wales.
This had been achieved despite Derbyshire police being one of the most understaffed forces in the country.
New Chief Constable Mick Creedon said that he needed an extra 200 officers to help Derbyshire improve.
But both Mr Creedon and Derbyshire Police Authority chairman Janet Birkin said that could not be achieved without realistic Government funding.
Long-serving police authority member Eric Lancashire said: "There's been such a rapid reduction in crime in recent years, there's got to be a point where there's a blip.
"But we must keep it in proportion. Derbyshire is still the safest county in the East Midlands."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-26 13:20:27
Parish chairman branded 'hypocrite' over homes
A parish council chairman who spoke out against development in her village has been branded "a hypocrite" after applying for permission to build five homes in her garden.
Liz Kolkman is behind a proposal for the "eco-friendly" homes in Mill Lane, Hilton.
And residents have criticised Ms Kolkman because she has opposed other housing development.
In August, Ms Kolkman, who chairs Hilton Parish Council said she was "very concerned" about a project to build 100 homes off Egginton Road.
She said: "New houses shouldn't be considered until the village has the infrastructure to cope."
Mark Harrison, who has lived in Mill Lane for 16 years, said that Ms Kolkman was "a hypocrite".
"How can she object to one lot being built and then go and build her own?" he asked.
"She doesn't seem to have the village's best interests at heart. It's totally hypocritical."
The 41-year-old builder said that he did not want more houses in the street.
"It would mean 10 or 20 more cars using the road, not to mention the construction vehicles that would be needed. The road just isn't wide enough."
Lynne Land, 41, also of Mill Lane, said: "She's got some land and wants to build on it and you can't blame her for that, I suppose.
"But we're against the proposal. It's quiet down here, which is part of the street's charm.
"The road's really narrow and there are kids playing on it all the time.
"We've just had a small extension and struggled to get small construction vehicles down.
"I don't know how they're going to manage."
Other parish councillors have mixed views.
Peter Hickinbotham, 74, said: "I've been a councillor since 1992 and I've seen this village grow from 500 houses to nearly 2,000.
"We're over saturation point and need to see more infrastructure and time to catch up with the development.
"But, if Liz wants to develop on her land, that's her own personal choice and I can't really comment on that."
Ms Kolkman stressed that her comments about development in Hilton had always been made on behalf of the parish council, not as an individual.
She added that she had kept her neighbours informed of her plans.
The proposed houses would be built on about an acre of land in the five-and-a-half-acre grounds of the Old Mill, where Ms Kolkman lives.
They would be constructed off-site and the homes would be fitted with solar or PV panels and equipped for rainwater harvesting.
She said: "We're not putting up the same type of houses that you can get anywhere in the village. This is something we've looked into as we want to do our bit for the environment."
Perhaps the best thing for the environment would be not to build them at all. But then there is no money in that is there!
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-26 13:12:12
Liz Kolkman is behind a proposal for the "eco-friendly" homes in Mill Lane, Hilton.
And residents have criticised Ms Kolkman because she has opposed other housing development.
In August, Ms Kolkman, who chairs Hilton Parish Council said she was "very concerned" about a project to build 100 homes off Egginton Road.
She said: "New houses shouldn't be considered until the village has the infrastructure to cope."
Mark Harrison, who has lived in Mill Lane for 16 years, said that Ms Kolkman was "a hypocrite".
"How can she object to one lot being built and then go and build her own?" he asked.
"She doesn't seem to have the village's best interests at heart. It's totally hypocritical."
The 41-year-old builder said that he did not want more houses in the street.
"It would mean 10 or 20 more cars using the road, not to mention the construction vehicles that would be needed. The road just isn't wide enough."
Lynne Land, 41, also of Mill Lane, said: "She's got some land and wants to build on it and you can't blame her for that, I suppose.
"But we're against the proposal. It's quiet down here, which is part of the street's charm.
"The road's really narrow and there are kids playing on it all the time.
"We've just had a small extension and struggled to get small construction vehicles down.
"I don't know how they're going to manage."
Other parish councillors have mixed views.
Peter Hickinbotham, 74, said: "I've been a councillor since 1992 and I've seen this village grow from 500 houses to nearly 2,000.
"We're over saturation point and need to see more infrastructure and time to catch up with the development.
"But, if Liz wants to develop on her land, that's her own personal choice and I can't really comment on that."
Ms Kolkman stressed that her comments about development in Hilton had always been made on behalf of the parish council, not as an individual.
She added that she had kept her neighbours informed of her plans.
The proposed houses would be built on about an acre of land in the five-and-a-half-acre grounds of the Old Mill, where Ms Kolkman lives.
They would be constructed off-site and the homes would be fitted with solar or PV panels and equipped for rainwater harvesting.
She said: "We're not putting up the same type of houses that you can get anywhere in the village. This is something we've looked into as we want to do our bit for the environment."
Perhaps the best thing for the environment would be not to build them at all. But then there is no money in that is there!
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-26 13:12:12
300 new homes at Cinderhill? Have your say.
A Study on whether a proposed housing and mixed development could cause noise and pollution problems has been completed.
Banks Group and Commercial Estates Group are seeking consent from Amber Valley Borough Council to build 300 homes, shops, offices, warehouses and factories, at Cinderhill, near Kilburn.
But, in September, the authority postponed its decision until the developers carried out further investigation into the potential impact of the scheme.
The finished report has now been published on the authority's website, www.ambervalley.co.uk, so people can have their say on its findings.
Carl Whysall, director of borough development at Amber Valley Borough Council, said: "Before determining the application, the council needs to be fully satisfied that the environmental statement deals with all the significant environmental effects that the application is likely to give rise to.
"The purpose of this consultation is to give people the opportunity to view and comment on this further information relating to noise and air quality."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-26 13:06:10
Banks Group and Commercial Estates Group are seeking consent from Amber Valley Borough Council to build 300 homes, shops, offices, warehouses and factories, at Cinderhill, near Kilburn.
But, in September, the authority postponed its decision until the developers carried out further investigation into the potential impact of the scheme.
The finished report has now been published on the authority's website, www.ambervalley.co.uk, so people can have their say on its findings.
Carl Whysall, director of borough development at Amber Valley Borough Council, said: "Before determining the application, the council needs to be fully satisfied that the environmental statement deals with all the significant environmental effects that the application is likely to give rise to.
"The purpose of this consultation is to give people the opportunity to view and comment on this further information relating to noise and air quality."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-26 13:06:10
Derbyshire MPs Expense Claims over £1.2m
The expenses bill for Derbyshire's MPs topped £1.2m last year - averaging £134,779 each.
Nine MPs in the county claimed £1,213,013 in allowances to cover travel, staffing and running their offices - £101,470 more than the year before.
The highest claim, £168,660, came from High Peak MP Tom Levitt.
His costs included £20,310 on staying away from his main home; £80,085 on staffing, office costs were £23,403 and postage was £23,700.
Chesterfield's Paul Holmes was the next highest with £155,429.
This included the cost of staying away from his main home, £22,068; office running costs, £20,686, and £86,770 on staffing.
West Derbyshire's Patrick McLoughlin was next, with £148,662.
His claim for 2006-7 included £82,019 on staffing, £19,593 on office running costs and £2,224 on postage. He also spent £4,288 on mileage and £6,127 on rail fares.
Mr McLoughlin, the Conservative Chief Whip, said: "I use the train to come to London and use the car to drive around the constituency - and I've got the biggest constituency in Derbyshire.
"For those we manage to help, they'll think we're good value but you take your choice. Overall, it works out at around £2 a constituent a year."
Bolsover's Dennis Skinner is the thriftiest Derbyshire MP - spending only £67,891, including £46,366 on staffing, £2,839 running his office and £400 on postage.
Derby North MP Bob Laxton, who claimed £133,385, said: "The money pays for journeys backwards and forwards to London by train and car. I employ three people and I actively try to keep my costs down.
"You pay what you have to pay. We have a lot of mail and a huge volume of work going through my offices.
"The more work you get, the more costs you incur."
The figures published yesterday do not include MPs' salaries, which were £59,686 until November 1, 2006, when they rose to £60,277.
MPs stress the fact that they do not pocket the allowances themselves - they cover expenses incurred.
Prime Minister Gordon Brown - who was still Chancellor during the period to which the latest figures refer - claimed a total of £135,525.
Liberal Democrat MP Nick Harvey, who represents the House of Commons Members Estimate Committee, said British taxpayers got "excellent value for money" compared with other countries. Is that justification?
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-26 12:58:45
Nine MPs in the county claimed £1,213,013 in allowances to cover travel, staffing and running their offices - £101,470 more than the year before.
The highest claim, £168,660, came from High Peak MP Tom Levitt.
His costs included £20,310 on staying away from his main home; £80,085 on staffing, office costs were £23,403 and postage was £23,700.
Chesterfield's Paul Holmes was the next highest with £155,429.
This included the cost of staying away from his main home, £22,068; office running costs, £20,686, and £86,770 on staffing.
West Derbyshire's Patrick McLoughlin was next, with £148,662.
His claim for 2006-7 included £82,019 on staffing, £19,593 on office running costs and £2,224 on postage. He also spent £4,288 on mileage and £6,127 on rail fares.
Mr McLoughlin, the Conservative Chief Whip, said: "I use the train to come to London and use the car to drive around the constituency - and I've got the biggest constituency in Derbyshire.
"For those we manage to help, they'll think we're good value but you take your choice. Overall, it works out at around £2 a constituent a year."
Bolsover's Dennis Skinner is the thriftiest Derbyshire MP - spending only £67,891, including £46,366 on staffing, £2,839 running his office and £400 on postage.
Derby North MP Bob Laxton, who claimed £133,385, said: "The money pays for journeys backwards and forwards to London by train and car. I employ three people and I actively try to keep my costs down.
"You pay what you have to pay. We have a lot of mail and a huge volume of work going through my offices.
"The more work you get, the more costs you incur."
The figures published yesterday do not include MPs' salaries, which were £59,686 until November 1, 2006, when they rose to £60,277.
MPs stress the fact that they do not pocket the allowances themselves - they cover expenses incurred.
Prime Minister Gordon Brown - who was still Chancellor during the period to which the latest figures refer - claimed a total of £135,525.
Liberal Democrat MP Nick Harvey, who represents the House of Commons Members Estimate Committee, said British taxpayers got "excellent value for money" compared with other countries. Is that justification?
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-26 12:58:45
£1m in grants help the Peak go green
The Peak District Sustainable Development Fund has given nearly £1m ingrants over the past five years to help "green" and educational projects inand around the National Park.
One of the latest grants will bring a big relief to farmers across the PeakDistrict who have to dispose of huge quantities of contaminated plasticwrapping. At present, most farm plastics are sent to China for re-cycling -an unwanted addition to the UK's carbon footprint.
But a £10,000 Sustainable Development Fund grant to a Yorkshire company, thenot-for-profit Green Business Network, will help them develop lower-costrecycling much closer to home. Once cleaned, the plastic will bere-processed into street and garden-furniture, decking, fence-posts,paving-blocks and pallets.
Other grants, of around £1,000 each, in the latest round of allocations havealso gone to:
* Bakewell Garden Allotments - to aid a feasibility study on sitesfor extra allotments due to high demand and inadequate current facilities
* East Cheshire Learning Community Project (£1,300) - acollaborative project involving four primary schools (Pott Shrigley, Wincle,Bosley and Kettleshulme) in creative study of local wildlife, working withrangers and artists
* Sheffield Black and Ethnic Minority Environmental Network(SHEBEEN) - to help diverse ethnic communities take an active interest inthe National Park, by walking, canoeing, rock-climbing and sight-seeing -accessed by public transport
* Living Art - a not-for-profit company based in Hathersage - for aLiving Landscape Exhibition, encouraging people to safeguard the NationalPark through inspirational photography.
Smaller grants went to Hollinsclough Primary School (between Buxton andLongnor) for bird-box monitoring equipment, allowing the children to followfledglings' progress, and to Sheldon History Group (near Bakewell), fordisplay boards and cabinets to showcase the village's heritage.
The Peak District Sustainable Development Fund is administered through theNational Park Authority and financed through Defra, which has given anannual £200,000 to each English national park since 2002. The grants areallocated by an independent panel of local people, and recipients are helpedto apply to other bodies for support, pulling in more than £1.43m inadditional grants to the Peak District in 2006/07 alone.
Peak District SDF officer Richard Godley said: "The Fund has made asignificant difference to the sustainable management of the countryside, andto greater understanding of sustainability, through working with localindividuals, businesses, community groups and young people.
"Projects helped range from school gardening projects and furniturerecycling to rainwater harvesting systems, hydro power surveys and renewableenergy projects including ground source heat pumps and small scale windturbines."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-25 15:58:28
One of the latest grants will bring a big relief to farmers across the PeakDistrict who have to dispose of huge quantities of contaminated plasticwrapping. At present, most farm plastics are sent to China for re-cycling -an unwanted addition to the UK's carbon footprint.
But a £10,000 Sustainable Development Fund grant to a Yorkshire company, thenot-for-profit Green Business Network, will help them develop lower-costrecycling much closer to home. Once cleaned, the plastic will bere-processed into street and garden-furniture, decking, fence-posts,paving-blocks and pallets.
Other grants, of around £1,000 each, in the latest round of allocations havealso gone to:
* Bakewell Garden Allotments - to aid a feasibility study on sitesfor extra allotments due to high demand and inadequate current facilities
* East Cheshire Learning Community Project (£1,300) - acollaborative project involving four primary schools (Pott Shrigley, Wincle,Bosley and Kettleshulme) in creative study of local wildlife, working withrangers and artists
* Sheffield Black and Ethnic Minority Environmental Network(SHEBEEN) - to help diverse ethnic communities take an active interest inthe National Park, by walking, canoeing, rock-climbing and sight-seeing -accessed by public transport
* Living Art - a not-for-profit company based in Hathersage - for aLiving Landscape Exhibition, encouraging people to safeguard the NationalPark through inspirational photography.
Smaller grants went to Hollinsclough Primary School (between Buxton andLongnor) for bird-box monitoring equipment, allowing the children to followfledglings' progress, and to Sheldon History Group (near Bakewell), fordisplay boards and cabinets to showcase the village's heritage.
The Peak District Sustainable Development Fund is administered through theNational Park Authority and financed through Defra, which has given anannual £200,000 to each English national park since 2002. The grants areallocated by an independent panel of local people, and recipients are helpedto apply to other bodies for support, pulling in more than £1.43m inadditional grants to the Peak District in 2006/07 alone.
Peak District SDF officer Richard Godley said: "The Fund has made asignificant difference to the sustainable management of the countryside, andto greater understanding of sustainability, through working with localindividuals, businesses, community groups and young people.
"Projects helped range from school gardening projects and furniturerecycling to rainwater harvesting systems, hydro power surveys and renewableenergy projects including ground source heat pumps and small scale windturbines."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-25 15:58:28
Authority approves wave of cuts
COUNCILLORS have rubber stamped a wave of cuts to address what they called their worst financial crisis in 20 years.
Derbyshire Dales District Council members are attempting to plug a £1.5million void in their budgets which they say has stemmed from "robbery" in the form of poor Government handouts.
The authority will now press ahead with cuts to tourist information centres, public toilets, swimming pools in Wirksworth and Hathersage and the Matlock Bath Illuminations - with the further threat of potential redundancies.
And council leader Lewis Rose admitted the shortfall could lead to a tax hike and the need to raid reserves.
At the full council meeting on Wednesday night, Cllr Rose said: "This is the first time we've had to debate savings of this magnitude.
"We have had years of what I would describe as robbery at the hands of the Government.
"I suspect we might have to use reserves and also raise the council tax up to the five per cent limit but we can't say that for certain yet.
"Only 12 per cent of these savings are on front line services."
Leader of the Liberal Democrat opposition Cllr Steve Flitter said: "What I don't like is that this is a fait accompli.
"We've not been privy to any of the alternatives that were ruled out.
"My fear is how are the savings going to cost us elsewhere - will taking away Saturday waste collections mean we pick up the tab for clearing flytipping?"
Cllr Rose replied that other options were ruled out because they were "even more unpalatable", such as increasing rates and charges or cutting the capital programme.
Councillors heard before the meeting from Chris Cartledge, chair of Hathersage Parish Council, that cuts to funding for Hathersage Open Air Pool would probably spell its closure within four years.
Cllr Jacque Bevan told the meeting: "In 20 years I've never seen this council in this position.
"We put very little into leisure in the Hope Valley. Cutting Hathersage Pool would be very unfair."
Members raised concerns this would just be the beginning of the savings they would have to make.
Cllr Nigel Allwood said: "We're steering this ship and we're going to hit an iceberg sooner or later.
"We will make savings and then next year may find that we have to make more and more."
Others stated the belief that the Government was employing a "death by starvation" tactic to force councils into merging with their counterparts to form unitary authorities.
Councillors voted for all the proposals at a majority of 30 to three.
Whatever happened to ."We have a RESPONSIBILITY to our COUNCIL TAX PAYERS to REDUCE COSTS WHERE EVER POSSIBLE" instead of " WE WILL RAISE THE COUNCIL TAX AND REDUCE THE SERVICES AT EVERY OPPORTUNITY".
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-24 13:09:44
Derbyshire Dales District Council members are attempting to plug a £1.5million void in their budgets which they say has stemmed from "robbery" in the form of poor Government handouts.
The authority will now press ahead with cuts to tourist information centres, public toilets, swimming pools in Wirksworth and Hathersage and the Matlock Bath Illuminations - with the further threat of potential redundancies.
And council leader Lewis Rose admitted the shortfall could lead to a tax hike and the need to raid reserves.
At the full council meeting on Wednesday night, Cllr Rose said: "This is the first time we've had to debate savings of this magnitude.
"We have had years of what I would describe as robbery at the hands of the Government.
"I suspect we might have to use reserves and also raise the council tax up to the five per cent limit but we can't say that for certain yet.
"Only 12 per cent of these savings are on front line services."
Leader of the Liberal Democrat opposition Cllr Steve Flitter said: "What I don't like is that this is a fait accompli.
"We've not been privy to any of the alternatives that were ruled out.
"My fear is how are the savings going to cost us elsewhere - will taking away Saturday waste collections mean we pick up the tab for clearing flytipping?"
Cllr Rose replied that other options were ruled out because they were "even more unpalatable", such as increasing rates and charges or cutting the capital programme.
Councillors heard before the meeting from Chris Cartledge, chair of Hathersage Parish Council, that cuts to funding for Hathersage Open Air Pool would probably spell its closure within four years.
Cllr Jacque Bevan told the meeting: "In 20 years I've never seen this council in this position.
"We put very little into leisure in the Hope Valley. Cutting Hathersage Pool would be very unfair."
Members raised concerns this would just be the beginning of the savings they would have to make.
Cllr Nigel Allwood said: "We're steering this ship and we're going to hit an iceberg sooner or later.
"We will make savings and then next year may find that we have to make more and more."
Others stated the belief that the Government was employing a "death by starvation" tactic to force councils into merging with their counterparts to form unitary authorities.
Councillors voted for all the proposals at a majority of 30 to three.
Whatever happened to ."We have a RESPONSIBILITY to our COUNCIL TAX PAYERS to REDUCE COSTS WHERE EVER POSSIBLE" instead of " WE WILL RAISE THE COUNCIL TAX AND REDUCE THE SERVICES AT EVERY OPPORTUNITY".
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-24 13:09:44
All-year round climbing
KEEN climbers will be able to train year-round thanks to the new £70,000 artificial rock face at Buxton's White Hall activity centre.
The indoor climbing wall, funded by Derbyshire County Council, will be open to members of the public on Sunday evenings from 6pm to 10pm starting October 21.
White Hall director, Rory Gregory said: "Derbyshire is famous for rock climbing. We have fabulous outdoor facilities, but we also have very long dark winters.
"This new climbing wall will be a great asset for keen climbers who need to keep fit and in training throughout the winter."
And demand for the facility is very high – a new junior climbing club held on Friday nights is already over-subscribed.
The wall has three main sections: a five metre high boulder climbing area, 10 metres of vertical traversing and a six metre high top roping zone.
Longnor and Marple were previously the nearest facilities in the area.
A Sunday evening session costs £4 and places are awarded on a first come first served basis. Groups bookings are available.
White Hall outdoor education centre is on the A5002 Long Hill road, just outside Buxton.
For more information call White Hall on 01298 23260.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-24 13:06:14
The indoor climbing wall, funded by Derbyshire County Council, will be open to members of the public on Sunday evenings from 6pm to 10pm starting October 21.
White Hall director, Rory Gregory said: "Derbyshire is famous for rock climbing. We have fabulous outdoor facilities, but we also have very long dark winters.
"This new climbing wall will be a great asset for keen climbers who need to keep fit and in training throughout the winter."
And demand for the facility is very high – a new junior climbing club held on Friday nights is already over-subscribed.
The wall has three main sections: a five metre high boulder climbing area, 10 metres of vertical traversing and a six metre high top roping zone.
Longnor and Marple were previously the nearest facilities in the area.
A Sunday evening session costs £4 and places are awarded on a first come first served basis. Groups bookings are available.
White Hall outdoor education centre is on the A5002 Long Hill road, just outside Buxton.
For more information call White Hall on 01298 23260.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-24 13:06:14
Busy weekend for mountain rescuers
A 71-YEAR-OLD man was airlifted to hospital after he slipped and fell while descending Cave Dale while walking the "Limestone Way" with two friends.
Members of Edale and Buxton Mountain Rescue Teams were called to assist the injured man on Saturday afternoon.
He was treated on site by an Mountain Rescue doctor and an ambulance service paramedic.
The Air Ambulance attended, but due to the steep terrain couldn't land near the casualty so he was carried on a stretcher by MRT members to the aircraft.
He was then flown to the Chesterfield Royal Hospital for further treatment.
Personnel from three mountain rescue teams together with Search and Rescue Dogs were called out to search for two walkers missing on Kinder Scout on Sunday evening.
A 27-year-old female from Altrincham, and a 31-year-old man from Hulme, Manchester, had set off from the Snake Road on Sunday morning to walk on Kinder Scout. They were overtaken by darkness whilst attempting to return and called police for help.
Members of Buxton, Edale and Kinder MR Team and Search & Rescue Dogs were deployed and the two were found by the dogs, safe and well on the moor north of Pym Chair. They were escorted to Hayfield.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-24 13:01:42
Members of Edale and Buxton Mountain Rescue Teams were called to assist the injured man on Saturday afternoon.
He was treated on site by an Mountain Rescue doctor and an ambulance service paramedic.
The Air Ambulance attended, but due to the steep terrain couldn't land near the casualty so he was carried on a stretcher by MRT members to the aircraft.
He was then flown to the Chesterfield Royal Hospital for further treatment.
Personnel from three mountain rescue teams together with Search and Rescue Dogs were called out to search for two walkers missing on Kinder Scout on Sunday evening.
A 27-year-old female from Altrincham, and a 31-year-old man from Hulme, Manchester, had set off from the Snake Road on Sunday morning to walk on Kinder Scout. They were overtaken by darkness whilst attempting to return and called police for help.
Members of Buxton, Edale and Kinder MR Team and Search & Rescue Dogs were deployed and the two were found by the dogs, safe and well on the moor north of Pym Chair. They were escorted to Hayfield.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-24 13:01:42
Water power schemes for Peak Park
THE search is on to find sites in the Peak District that could generate power by harnessing energy from water.
Plans for hydro-electric power generation have been revealed by national park society Friends of the Peak District (FPD), and the charity is urging communities to contribute to the project.
FPD is hosting two consultation events to tell people more about the project and listen to ideas about where hydropower might be developed to serve communities - with the potential to even take small areas off the national grid.
Andy Tickle, head of planning at FPD, said: "A strong focus of the Peak District project is involving villages and communities so the opportunities for new hydropower sites can be beneficial socially as well as environmentally.
"We have already asked parish councils to tell us about possible sites and now we want to spread the search wider. We hope that more community-based schemes such as Sustainable Youlgrave can be developed in due course.
"Hydropower is an unintrusive and sensitive way to create renewable energy."
Potential sites for hydropower are already being researched, with nearly 100 locations, mostly former mills, being investigated.
Among the possible sites are Alport Mill on the Haddon Estate
and Lumford Mill in Bakewell.
Chatsworth already provides power for the house through the Emperor Cascade waterfall.
Technical consultants T4Sustainability will then employ a computer model to identify any potential issues.
From these case studies, up to ten sites will be investigated with findings being published early next year.
Peak District National Park Authority sustainable development officer Richard Godley said: "We fully support the Friends' project. Hydropower has huge potential in the national park and we are able to offer advice and contacts for anyone who wants to explore micro-turbines further."
The first of the consultation events will take place on Tuesday November 6 at the Bradbury Community House in Glossop between 7 and 9pm. The second will be held on Thursday November 8 at Gothic Warehouse, Cromford Mill, between 7 and 9pm.
All are welcome to attend.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-24 12:57:39
Plans for hydro-electric power generation have been revealed by national park society Friends of the Peak District (FPD), and the charity is urging communities to contribute to the project.
FPD is hosting two consultation events to tell people more about the project and listen to ideas about where hydropower might be developed to serve communities - with the potential to even take small areas off the national grid.
Andy Tickle, head of planning at FPD, said: "A strong focus of the Peak District project is involving villages and communities so the opportunities for new hydropower sites can be beneficial socially as well as environmentally.
"We have already asked parish councils to tell us about possible sites and now we want to spread the search wider. We hope that more community-based schemes such as Sustainable Youlgrave can be developed in due course.
"Hydropower is an unintrusive and sensitive way to create renewable energy."
Potential sites for hydropower are already being researched, with nearly 100 locations, mostly former mills, being investigated.
Among the possible sites are Alport Mill on the Haddon Estate
and Lumford Mill in Bakewell.
Chatsworth already provides power for the house through the Emperor Cascade waterfall.
Technical consultants T4Sustainability will then employ a computer model to identify any potential issues.
From these case studies, up to ten sites will be investigated with findings being published early next year.
Peak District National Park Authority sustainable development officer Richard Godley said: "We fully support the Friends' project. Hydropower has huge potential in the national park and we are able to offer advice and contacts for anyone who wants to explore micro-turbines further."
The first of the consultation events will take place on Tuesday November 6 at the Bradbury Community House in Glossop between 7 and 9pm. The second will be held on Thursday November 8 at Gothic Warehouse, Cromford Mill, between 7 and 9pm.
All are welcome to attend.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-24 12:57:39
Englands most English Town
A Book about a Derbyshire town dubbed "England's most English town" goes on sale this month.
Events, People and Places of Ripley, Heage and Ambergate will be launched on Tuesday, October 30, at 1pm, at the town's Tourist Information Centre by Ripley mayor Robert Phillips-Forsyth.
The book is the brainchild of Ripley Town Council clerk Brian Wood, who edited and coordinated contributions from businesses, clubs and local people in Ripley, Heage and Ambergate.
Previously unpublished photographs are included, creating a colourful history of the people and a record of the area's culture.
The book, funded by a Big Lottery Fund grant, focuses on the population of the town that was called England's most English town in a 2007 Origins Information Survey because it had a larger proportion of residents with an English background than anywhere else.
Mr Wood said: "This book gives an insight into the fabric of the area and reflects the culture of the people of Ripley Heage and Ambergate.
"Without their contribution this book would not have been possible."
Priced at £6, the book is available from the Ripley Tourist Information Office, Market Place, Ripley, or by post from the town clerk at a cost of £6 plus £1.50 for postage and packaging.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-23 17:48:11
Events, People and Places of Ripley, Heage and Ambergate will be launched on Tuesday, October 30, at 1pm, at the town's Tourist Information Centre by Ripley mayor Robert Phillips-Forsyth.
The book is the brainchild of Ripley Town Council clerk Brian Wood, who edited and coordinated contributions from businesses, clubs and local people in Ripley, Heage and Ambergate.
Previously unpublished photographs are included, creating a colourful history of the people and a record of the area's culture.
The book, funded by a Big Lottery Fund grant, focuses on the population of the town that was called England's most English town in a 2007 Origins Information Survey because it had a larger proportion of residents with an English background than anywhere else.
Mr Wood said: "This book gives an insight into the fabric of the area and reflects the culture of the people of Ripley Heage and Ambergate.
"Without their contribution this book would not have been possible."
Priced at £6, the book is available from the Ripley Tourist Information Office, Market Place, Ripley, or by post from the town clerk at a cost of £6 plus £1.50 for postage and packaging.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-23 17:48:11
Eco-table puts Derby in middle
Derby has finished half-way in a table ranking 60 cities' impact on the environment.
The figures, published by conservation charity WWF-UK, show that Derby finished 28th, with the highest-placed city the "worst offender".
The report ranks the cities by the average ecological footprint of the people who live there, based on the land and sea area a person needs for food, energy and resources and to absorb waste and pollution.
The main factors creating an individual's footprint are housing, transport, food, consumer goods and services.
The research showed that Winchester had the worst ecological footprint, while Newport and Plymouth had the least impact on the environment.
Colin Butfield, of WWF, said: "The battle for the environment will be won or lost in our cities. They have the highest potential for eco-living."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-23 17:44:17
The figures, published by conservation charity WWF-UK, show that Derby finished 28th, with the highest-placed city the "worst offender".
The report ranks the cities by the average ecological footprint of the people who live there, based on the land and sea area a person needs for food, energy and resources and to absorb waste and pollution.
The main factors creating an individual's footprint are housing, transport, food, consumer goods and services.
The research showed that Winchester had the worst ecological footprint, while Newport and Plymouth had the least impact on the environment.
Colin Butfield, of WWF, said: "The battle for the environment will be won or lost in our cities. They have the highest potential for eco-living."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-23 17:44:17
Police defend numbers at R-R protest
Police say that their response to a 12-person anti-nuclear protest at Rolls-Royce, in Derby, was not "out of proportion".
Witnesses said that about 40 officers were at the Raynesway site yesterday.
Protesters from campaign groups, including Trident Ploughshares, criticised the police reaction.
But a spokesman for the Derbyshire force said that the number of officers was proportionate to the intelligence they had about the protest and their presence was stepped down once it was established that the demonstration was under control.
He said: "Previous protests at the site have seen disruptive actions taken, including barricading the main gates."
Yesterday's protest was in opposition to R-R's involvement in the Trident nuclear submarine programme.
The Government won a vote earlier this year to press ahead with a new generation of Trident nuclear submarines, parts of which are made at Raynesway.
Emma Bateman, of Trident Ploughshares, said that the police had overreacted. She said: "It was a very small protest."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-23 17:40:13
Witnesses said that about 40 officers were at the Raynesway site yesterday.
Protesters from campaign groups, including Trident Ploughshares, criticised the police reaction.
But a spokesman for the Derbyshire force said that the number of officers was proportionate to the intelligence they had about the protest and their presence was stepped down once it was established that the demonstration was under control.
He said: "Previous protests at the site have seen disruptive actions taken, including barricading the main gates."
Yesterday's protest was in opposition to R-R's involvement in the Trident nuclear submarine programme.
The Government won a vote earlier this year to press ahead with a new generation of Trident nuclear submarines, parts of which are made at Raynesway.
Emma Bateman, of Trident Ploughshares, said that the police had overreacted. She said: "It was a very small protest."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-23 17:40:13
Post office will shut 35 outlets no matter what
Campaigners battling against the proposed closure of 35 Derbyshire post offices would put other county branches at risk if they succeed.
Yesterday, Matt Silcock, the Post Office's senior external relations manager, admitted that if any branch was saved, another would be put forward for closure.
He said another branch would be found in either Derbyshire or Nottinghamshire, where a further 33 branches could shut.
The Post Office will close 2,500 post offices by the end of next year as part of a nationwide cost-cutting measure.
Mr Silcock said the number of closures in each region would not change because this was the total needed to stop the company making huge losses.
He made the statement while speaking at a city council overview and scrutiny committee meeting, held to investigate the planned closure of six branches in Derby.
These are in Abbey Street, Ashbourne Road, Mansfield Road, Pear Tree, Shelton Lock and Wilmorton.
Representatives from Postwatch, the independent body which protects the interests of Post Office customers, also attended the meeting but said the organisation would not be able to oppose all closures.
Steve Lax, the organisation's adviser for the Midlands, said: "Change is necessary and in the long term beneficial for customers.
"There may be instances where we contest proposed closures, but our priority is to make sure the post office take a sensible approach to deciding which are shut."
He added that his organisation had received a noticeably small number of complaints about the closures in Derby compared to other areas of the country and that people needed to make their views known for changes to be made to the plans.
Irene Shiels, the Postwatch member for Derby, said there were grounds to contest all six closures in the city.
She picked out Abbey Street and Pear Tree as branches which Postwatch had a particular duty to represent.
Mrs Shiels said: "These are deprived areas where ethnic minorities live that may not feel confident enough to come forward and say they want to keep their branch.
"The Post Office may not receive a lot of representations from these areas, so we have a duty to help them."
MP for Derby North Bob Laxton also gave evidence.
He said he was particularly against the proposed closures in Mansfield Road and Ashbourne Road because the alternative post offices would be difficult for people to get to.
He said: "I would like to see them looking at the possibility of extending the range of services that can be provided, looking at providing a bigger range of services like car tax in some of these offices.
"We should bolster the amount of business these offices do and while people are in there, they'd be purchasing other services from the shopkeeper or over the counter."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-23 17:33:18
Yesterday, Matt Silcock, the Post Office's senior external relations manager, admitted that if any branch was saved, another would be put forward for closure.
He said another branch would be found in either Derbyshire or Nottinghamshire, where a further 33 branches could shut.
The Post Office will close 2,500 post offices by the end of next year as part of a nationwide cost-cutting measure.
Mr Silcock said the number of closures in each region would not change because this was the total needed to stop the company making huge losses.
He made the statement while speaking at a city council overview and scrutiny committee meeting, held to investigate the planned closure of six branches in Derby.
These are in Abbey Street, Ashbourne Road, Mansfield Road, Pear Tree, Shelton Lock and Wilmorton.
Representatives from Postwatch, the independent body which protects the interests of Post Office customers, also attended the meeting but said the organisation would not be able to oppose all closures.
Steve Lax, the organisation's adviser for the Midlands, said: "Change is necessary and in the long term beneficial for customers.
"There may be instances where we contest proposed closures, but our priority is to make sure the post office take a sensible approach to deciding which are shut."
He added that his organisation had received a noticeably small number of complaints about the closures in Derby compared to other areas of the country and that people needed to make their views known for changes to be made to the plans.
Irene Shiels, the Postwatch member for Derby, said there were grounds to contest all six closures in the city.
She picked out Abbey Street and Pear Tree as branches which Postwatch had a particular duty to represent.
Mrs Shiels said: "These are deprived areas where ethnic minorities live that may not feel confident enough to come forward and say they want to keep their branch.
"The Post Office may not receive a lot of representations from these areas, so we have a duty to help them."
MP for Derby North Bob Laxton also gave evidence.
He said he was particularly against the proposed closures in Mansfield Road and Ashbourne Road because the alternative post offices would be difficult for people to get to.
He said: "I would like to see them looking at the possibility of extending the range of services that can be provided, looking at providing a bigger range of services like car tax in some of these offices.
"We should bolster the amount of business these offices do and while people are in there, they'd be purchasing other services from the shopkeeper or over the counter."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-23 17:33:18
The Thin Blue Line
Derbyshire Constabulary is one of the most under-staffed police forces in the country, figures have revealed.
And Chief Constable Mick Creedon says that he cannot give the public the service they deserve because the Government will not pay for more officers.
The county came 29th in a league table of 42 police forces based on the number of officers available to fight crime.
The table shows that there are 209 police officers per 100,000 population in Derbyshire - way below the national average of 271.
Uniformed constables number only 161 per 100,000 of the population, putting Derbyshire 30th in that table. The national average is 209.
Despite the lack of manpower, Derbyshire Constabulary has managed to achieve falling crime rates in recent years.
Mr Creedon said: "We're doing exceptionally well but I don't think we're necessarily able to give the public of the county what we'd like. We need more resources to do it."
He said that 200 more officers were needed but could be provided only if the Government gave the force extra funding.
Such an increase would mean more constables on the beat and more available to work in specialist units tackling organised and serious crime.
Both Mr Creedon and police authority chairman Janet Birkin are campaigning for a fairer deal for Derbyshire. And Derby North MP Bob Laxton has promised to tackle ministers over the Government's "unfair" funding formula.
"We hope they recognise the situation in Derbyshire, which has been consistently under-funded for too many years, although they're a good force and deliver, in my experience, a good quality of service," he said.
What is frightening is the true number of active officers. Consider those driving desks, in departments compiling figures and charts, unfit for service due to injury or ill health, those on courses and on leave, then you will see the thin blue line has just about disapeared.
Labour Govenrment - tough on crime? Bullshit!!
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-23 17:21:34
And Chief Constable Mick Creedon says that he cannot give the public the service they deserve because the Government will not pay for more officers.
The county came 29th in a league table of 42 police forces based on the number of officers available to fight crime.
The table shows that there are 209 police officers per 100,000 population in Derbyshire - way below the national average of 271.
Uniformed constables number only 161 per 100,000 of the population, putting Derbyshire 30th in that table. The national average is 209.
Despite the lack of manpower, Derbyshire Constabulary has managed to achieve falling crime rates in recent years.
Mr Creedon said: "We're doing exceptionally well but I don't think we're necessarily able to give the public of the county what we'd like. We need more resources to do it."
He said that 200 more officers were needed but could be provided only if the Government gave the force extra funding.
Such an increase would mean more constables on the beat and more available to work in specialist units tackling organised and serious crime.
Both Mr Creedon and police authority chairman Janet Birkin are campaigning for a fairer deal for Derbyshire. And Derby North MP Bob Laxton has promised to tackle ministers over the Government's "unfair" funding formula.
"We hope they recognise the situation in Derbyshire, which has been consistently under-funded for too many years, although they're a good force and deliver, in my experience, a good quality of service," he said.
What is frightening is the true number of active officers. Consider those driving desks, in departments compiling figures and charts, unfit for service due to injury or ill health, those on courses and on leave, then you will see the thin blue line has just about disapeared.
Labour Govenrment - tough on crime? Bullshit!!
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-23 17:21:34
Fulham 0 Derby County 0
Is it a little early to be mentioning the dreaded "R" word in October? Not if Fulham and Derby do not lift their game and their standard pretty quickly. This draw bore did neither of them any good, though it was Derby's first away point of the season. But the Premier League newcomers have to deal with the statistic that they have not scored on their travels for nine hours.
They might have broken that particular duck but for the excellent goalkeeping of Antti Niemi, who luckily regained his place after his early-season aberrations. As Derby piled on the pressure against a Fulham team reduced to 10 men for the whole of the second half after the dismissal of Paul Koncheksy, it was Niemi's hands – and once an outstretched foot – which denied them the win.
Kasey Keller, who had kept goal in the previous three Fulham games, should have started, but he strained an arm in training on Friday. "I said to Antti, you are number one but haven't proved it so far this year," said the Fulham manager, Lawrie Sanchez. "Today he showed us."
Incredibly, the single point earned from Niemi's skills lifted Fulham five places in the table – 18th to 13th – but Sanchez was not being fooled by that. "I don't know whether to be pleased, because we drew the game, but it was one we were expecting to win" he admitted, saying he fully understood the home boos, reflecting Fulham's failure to score for the past three games.
Konchesky was shown a straight red by the referee, Phil Dowd, in first-half added time. The Fulham left-back and Craig Fagan, back for Derby from a four-game ban, had been niggling away at each other a little earlier and when Fagan went in hard on the touchline, he was floored by Konchesky's retaliatory outflung arm, also earning himself a booking for overreacting. Sanchez had no arguments with the dismissal.At least it provided a little excitement to close out a dire first half.
Only two minutes earlier, the Derby manager, Billy Davies, had abandoned his ultra-cautious defensive line-up, taking off the centre-back Claude Davis and pulling back the holding midfielder, Dean Leacock, another defender by inclination. On came Derby's bright hope, Giles Barnes, and set about showing why, as Derby piled on the second-half pressure. One rocket was bravely thrust away by Niemi and a towering header was also brilliantly dealt with, as was the captain Matt Oakley's 20-yard thump when Eddie Lewis cut back the ball to him.
Fulham, with Carlos Bocanegra coming on to take Konchesky's place at left-back and Seol Ki-Hyeon being benched, persisted with two up front and played better than they had done with a full team.
Stephen Bywater deflected one Dempsey header over the bar and, in a bid for a late winner, Sanchez brought on David Healy, the striker who has made those a speciality.
But this was Craven Cottage, not Northern Ireland.
The stalemate did not dim Davies' optimism. "Unfortunate not to take three points," he said."We are on our way." But in which direction?
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-21 09:41:12
They might have broken that particular duck but for the excellent goalkeeping of Antti Niemi, who luckily regained his place after his early-season aberrations. As Derby piled on the pressure against a Fulham team reduced to 10 men for the whole of the second half after the dismissal of Paul Koncheksy, it was Niemi's hands – and once an outstretched foot – which denied them the win.
Kasey Keller, who had kept goal in the previous three Fulham games, should have started, but he strained an arm in training on Friday. "I said to Antti, you are number one but haven't proved it so far this year," said the Fulham manager, Lawrie Sanchez. "Today he showed us."
Incredibly, the single point earned from Niemi's skills lifted Fulham five places in the table – 18th to 13th – but Sanchez was not being fooled by that. "I don't know whether to be pleased, because we drew the game, but it was one we were expecting to win" he admitted, saying he fully understood the home boos, reflecting Fulham's failure to score for the past three games.
Konchesky was shown a straight red by the referee, Phil Dowd, in first-half added time. The Fulham left-back and Craig Fagan, back for Derby from a four-game ban, had been niggling away at each other a little earlier and when Fagan went in hard on the touchline, he was floored by Konchesky's retaliatory outflung arm, also earning himself a booking for overreacting. Sanchez had no arguments with the dismissal.At least it provided a little excitement to close out a dire first half.
Only two minutes earlier, the Derby manager, Billy Davies, had abandoned his ultra-cautious defensive line-up, taking off the centre-back Claude Davis and pulling back the holding midfielder, Dean Leacock, another defender by inclination. On came Derby's bright hope, Giles Barnes, and set about showing why, as Derby piled on the second-half pressure. One rocket was bravely thrust away by Niemi and a towering header was also brilliantly dealt with, as was the captain Matt Oakley's 20-yard thump when Eddie Lewis cut back the ball to him.
Fulham, with Carlos Bocanegra coming on to take Konchesky's place at left-back and Seol Ki-Hyeon being benched, persisted with two up front and played better than they had done with a full team.
Stephen Bywater deflected one Dempsey header over the bar and, in a bid for a late winner, Sanchez brought on David Healy, the striker who has made those a speciality.
But this was Craven Cottage, not Northern Ireland.
The stalemate did not dim Davies' optimism. "Unfortunate not to take three points," he said."We are on our way." But in which direction?
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-21 09:41:12
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Women to take part in Shrovetide football match?
A Derbyshire woman who is campaigning to end the tradition of only men starting Ashbourne's Royal Shrove-tide football match could be a step closer to her goal.
Traditionally, the game has been started by a man.
But 69-year-old Trilby Shaw has uncovered proof that aviator Amy Johnson was invited to start the game in 1933 - a precedent that a women can be asked to conduct the honour.
Mrs Shaw found a letter sent to the then Shrovetide secretary, Mr J. Hawksworth, from the secretary of the famous aviator, who, in 1930, was the first woman to fly solo from England to Australia.
It said that, although Miss Johnson had been asked to start the match, she could not keep the appointment.
Mrs Shaw, of Mayfield Road, Ashbourne, said: "Now that we have this proof, we will be putting it before the Shrovetide Committee.
"In this day and age, when we have had a woman prime minister and we have women doctors, pilots and captains of industry, I see no reason why a woman cannot start our town's traditional game - after all, we have had three women goal the ball."
The letter was found in a box of documents collected by historian Kathleen Hollick. She died about 15 years ago and gave the box to Mrs Shaw's husband.
But it was only a few weeks ago that they decided to catalogue the papers.
The object of the match is to "goal" a ball by touching it three times against the opposition's stone post.
The game is played between the Up'ards, traditionally men born north of the town's Henmore Brook, and the Down'ards, who are born to the brook's south.
Mrs Shaw said: "In an ideal world, a woman would be permitted to start the match although, as I come from a Up'ards' family, I think it should be an Up'ards' girl, of course."
Mick Betteridge, current Secretary of the Shrovetide Committee and a member for 10 years, said a woman had not been asked to "turn up" the ball because "to my knowledge there has never been a woman put forward".
But not everyone is keen on a woman starting the match.
Mark Harrison, 43, is an Up'ard who has been playing for 28 years.
He said: "It is an honour to start the game and it should be someone who has done a lot for Shrovetide.
"I'm am a traditionalist and don't think many women fit into that category."
The next committee meeting is on October 30.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-20 13:34:57
Traditionally, the game has been started by a man.
But 69-year-old Trilby Shaw has uncovered proof that aviator Amy Johnson was invited to start the game in 1933 - a precedent that a women can be asked to conduct the honour.
Mrs Shaw found a letter sent to the then Shrovetide secretary, Mr J. Hawksworth, from the secretary of the famous aviator, who, in 1930, was the first woman to fly solo from England to Australia.
It said that, although Miss Johnson had been asked to start the match, she could not keep the appointment.
Mrs Shaw, of Mayfield Road, Ashbourne, said: "Now that we have this proof, we will be putting it before the Shrovetide Committee.
"In this day and age, when we have had a woman prime minister and we have women doctors, pilots and captains of industry, I see no reason why a woman cannot start our town's traditional game - after all, we have had three women goal the ball."
The letter was found in a box of documents collected by historian Kathleen Hollick. She died about 15 years ago and gave the box to Mrs Shaw's husband.
But it was only a few weeks ago that they decided to catalogue the papers.
The object of the match is to "goal" a ball by touching it three times against the opposition's stone post.
The game is played between the Up'ards, traditionally men born north of the town's Henmore Brook, and the Down'ards, who are born to the brook's south.
Mrs Shaw said: "In an ideal world, a woman would be permitted to start the match although, as I come from a Up'ards' family, I think it should be an Up'ards' girl, of course."
Mick Betteridge, current Secretary of the Shrovetide Committee and a member for 10 years, said a woman had not been asked to "turn up" the ball because "to my knowledge there has never been a woman put forward".
But not everyone is keen on a woman starting the match.
Mark Harrison, 43, is an Up'ard who has been playing for 28 years.
He said: "It is an honour to start the game and it should be someone who has done a lot for Shrovetide.
"I'm am a traditionalist and don't think many women fit into that category."
The next committee meeting is on October 30.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-20 13:34:57
Birch leaves Rams
Derby County last night announced that chief executive Trevor Birch has left the club with immediate effect.
Birch, who was only appointed in June, was recently reported to have suffered a breakdown in his relationship with manager Billy Davies, but the Rams boss denied there was any problem between them.
The club released a statement last night, which read: "Derby County Football Club today announced that Trevor Birch has ceased to be employed as its chief executive officer with immediate effect.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-20 13:32:30
Birch, who was only appointed in June, was recently reported to have suffered a breakdown in his relationship with manager Billy Davies, but the Rams boss denied there was any problem between them.
The club released a statement last night, which read: "Derby County Football Club today announced that Trevor Birch has ceased to be employed as its chief executive officer with immediate effect.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-20 13:32:30
Railway day at the silk mill
A Themed railway event will take place at the Silk Mill museum tomorrow.
Visitors will get a behind-the-scenes look at the Midland Railway Study Centre, which is normally only open to people who have made a special appointment.
Volunteers will give 40-minute tours at 1.15pm, 2.15pm and 3.15pm.
The museum's 7mm-scale model railway will also be running from 1pm to 3.45pm.
The model is based on the Midland Railway in the early 1900s.
The afternoon is part of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site Discovery Days programme, which spans the whole weekend and involves events up and down the Derwent valley from Derby to Matlock.
The museum is open from 1pm to 4pm on Sundays.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-20 13:29:44
Visitors will get a behind-the-scenes look at the Midland Railway Study Centre, which is normally only open to people who have made a special appointment.
Volunteers will give 40-minute tours at 1.15pm, 2.15pm and 3.15pm.
The museum's 7mm-scale model railway will also be running from 1pm to 3.45pm.
The model is based on the Midland Railway in the early 1900s.
The afternoon is part of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site Discovery Days programme, which spans the whole weekend and involves events up and down the Derwent valley from Derby to Matlock.
The museum is open from 1pm to 4pm on Sundays.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-20 13:29:44
Holiday cottages would "urbanise" beauty spot
COUNCILLORS have turned down an application for holiday accommodation.
Plans for three holiday cottages on land to the rear of the Hanging Gate pub in Chapel-en-le-Frith were refused amid concerns over their detrimental impact on the surrounding countryside.
Adrian Fisher, head of planning and development, said: "The council recognises that it needs to promote tourism in the area. People come to the Peak District primarily to enjoy the magnificent countryside.
"This particular site is part of the countryside located between Whaley Bridge and Chapel.
"If we continue to urbanise that area then it would greatly derogate that open aspect.
"Policy LT12 states that applications should only be allowed where certain tests are met.
"These tests are: can it be absorbed within the existing features and is it closely related to existing tourist development?
"Is there anything special about this site that makes it closely related to tourist development as opposed to any other area of land between Whaley Bridge and Chapel?"
Cllr Emily Thrane, who proposed councillors refuse the application, said: "I think, having seen the site, that the building will be extremely prominent. It can be viewed from Combs reservoir and it can't be absorbed into the landscape."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-20 08:17:04
Plans for three holiday cottages on land to the rear of the Hanging Gate pub in Chapel-en-le-Frith were refused amid concerns over their detrimental impact on the surrounding countryside.
Adrian Fisher, head of planning and development, said: "The council recognises that it needs to promote tourism in the area. People come to the Peak District primarily to enjoy the magnificent countryside.
"This particular site is part of the countryside located between Whaley Bridge and Chapel.
"If we continue to urbanise that area then it would greatly derogate that open aspect.
"Policy LT12 states that applications should only be allowed where certain tests are met.
"These tests are: can it be absorbed within the existing features and is it closely related to existing tourist development?
"Is there anything special about this site that makes it closely related to tourist development as opposed to any other area of land between Whaley Bridge and Chapel?"
Cllr Emily Thrane, who proposed councillors refuse the application, said: "I think, having seen the site, that the building will be extremely prominent. It can be viewed from Combs reservoir and it can't be absorbed into the landscape."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-20 08:17:04
Ghostly Green Light for Bolsover
A haunted castle is set to get a ghostly green makeover as part of its Halloween celebrations.
Every night from Saturday until Wednesday, October 31, Bolsover Castle will be illuminated in green light visible from miles around.
The imposing hilltop castle is already renowned as a haunted building, with stories of its ghosts appearing in books and on television.
Andrea Hill, English Heritage visitor operations manager, said: “We hope that the ghostly illuminations will help create the right atmosphere for our Halloween events.
“Families will enjoy the spooky trail and craft activities. For adults there are scary haunted tours of the castle on Halloween night itself.”
Half-term family activities will take place every day from Saturday until Sunday October 28 inclusive.
Families can hunt for monsters and ghosts on the spooky trail. There will also be craft workshops where children can make their own bats, masks and ghosts to take home.
On Halloween night, adults can brave the hauntingly historical evening tours which depart at 6pm. Tickets are £15 per person and include a hot supper in the cafe.
Tickets must be booked in advance by calling Bolsover Castle on (01246) 822844.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-18 17:12:03
Every night from Saturday until Wednesday, October 31, Bolsover Castle will be illuminated in green light visible from miles around.
The imposing hilltop castle is already renowned as a haunted building, with stories of its ghosts appearing in books and on television.
Andrea Hill, English Heritage visitor operations manager, said: “We hope that the ghostly illuminations will help create the right atmosphere for our Halloween events.
“Families will enjoy the spooky trail and craft activities. For adults there are scary haunted tours of the castle on Halloween night itself.”
Half-term family activities will take place every day from Saturday until Sunday October 28 inclusive.
Families can hunt for monsters and ghosts on the spooky trail. There will also be craft workshops where children can make their own bats, masks and ghosts to take home.
On Halloween night, adults can brave the hauntingly historical evening tours which depart at 6pm. Tickets are £15 per person and include a hot supper in the cafe.
Tickets must be booked in advance by calling Bolsover Castle on (01246) 822844.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-18 17:12:03
Town's great fire will blaze again
A popular community bonfire is being rekindled after the annual event burned out four years ago.
The Great Fire of Dronfield will again light up the town from Dronfield Woodhouse Recreation Ground, Carr Lane, on Saturday November 3 from 6pm.
Tony Middleton of Dronfield Woodhouse Sports and Social Club, which is organising the event, said: “The Great Fire and firework displays had always been an eagerly awaited annual event for many families in the neighbourhood, and many people have been asking when the event will be revived.”
The bonfire was formerly organised by Dronfield Round Table, but high insurance costs, heavy financial losses and dwindling numbers of volunteers dampened the flames in 2003.
For this year's event, people are asked to collect and save safe material to be burned, and local charities and organisations are invited to set up a stall on the night.
Food will be available and the club will be open for people to warm and refresh themselves.
Tickets for the Great Fire cost £5 for adults, £3 for children. Family tickets are available in advance at £7 for one-parent households and £12 for two parents.
For more information about stalls and tickets call 07813 300016 or (0114) 2890913
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-18 17:09:16
The Great Fire of Dronfield will again light up the town from Dronfield Woodhouse Recreation Ground, Carr Lane, on Saturday November 3 from 6pm.
Tony Middleton of Dronfield Woodhouse Sports and Social Club, which is organising the event, said: “The Great Fire and firework displays had always been an eagerly awaited annual event for many families in the neighbourhood, and many people have been asking when the event will be revived.”
The bonfire was formerly organised by Dronfield Round Table, but high insurance costs, heavy financial losses and dwindling numbers of volunteers dampened the flames in 2003.
For this year's event, people are asked to collect and save safe material to be burned, and local charities and organisations are invited to set up a stall on the night.
Food will be available and the club will be open for people to warm and refresh themselves.
Tickets for the Great Fire cost £5 for adults, £3 for children. Family tickets are available in advance at £7 for one-parent households and £12 for two parents.
For more information about stalls and tickets call 07813 300016 or (0114) 2890913
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-18 17:09:16
Dowager duchess backs call to save post office
THE Dowager Duchess of Devonshire has pledged her support to keep Edensor Post Office open.
New cutbacks announced mean the post office, located in the village shop and tearooms, is one of several in the Dales earmarked for closure.
The Dowager Duchess said she uses the service regularly and feels its central place makes it a meeting point for villagers. She added: "The post office is the focal point of the village. The government talk about community centres but this is a centre for the village community.
"In the mornings it is really busy. People come for their papers, you can find out how everybody is and what is happening. If it goes we will lose the local angle. I appreciate it more than I can say, it is really rather tragic.
"It is right in the centre of the village and used by local people. I think it is very sad that the focal point will go out of the village.
"We wont realise what we have lost until it is gone. It is about quality of life for the people who live here.
"We will lose faith in the service completely. It used to be such an excellent institution. It will leave a huge hole here if it goes."
Postmaster David Houghton said there has been a post office in the village for 150 years. He added: "In the mornings you get local people in here having a natter and you get to know what is going on."
Mr Houghton's wife, Julia, said: "There are people in the village who don't have cars will find it hard to get to another post office.
"It is not the only part of our business but it is the community part. The emphasis of this business will change after the post office is gone."
The Countryside Alliance are urging resident to fight for their branches.
Chief executive Simon Hart said: " We all feel that the Government has missed the point on Post Offices. Financial viability cannot be the only concern when considering whether to continue subsidising the Post Office Network.
"Post Offices are the social heart of many communities, and without them many thousands of people, including many elderly and disabled, would be increasingly isolated."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-18 17:02:49
New cutbacks announced mean the post office, located in the village shop and tearooms, is one of several in the Dales earmarked for closure.
The Dowager Duchess said she uses the service regularly and feels its central place makes it a meeting point for villagers. She added: "The post office is the focal point of the village. The government talk about community centres but this is a centre for the village community.
"In the mornings it is really busy. People come for their papers, you can find out how everybody is and what is happening. If it goes we will lose the local angle. I appreciate it more than I can say, it is really rather tragic.
"It is right in the centre of the village and used by local people. I think it is very sad that the focal point will go out of the village.
"We wont realise what we have lost until it is gone. It is about quality of life for the people who live here.
"We will lose faith in the service completely. It used to be such an excellent institution. It will leave a huge hole here if it goes."
Postmaster David Houghton said there has been a post office in the village for 150 years. He added: "In the mornings you get local people in here having a natter and you get to know what is going on."
Mr Houghton's wife, Julia, said: "There are people in the village who don't have cars will find it hard to get to another post office.
"It is not the only part of our business but it is the community part. The emphasis of this business will change after the post office is gone."
The Countryside Alliance are urging resident to fight for their branches.
Chief executive Simon Hart said: " We all feel that the Government has missed the point on Post Offices. Financial viability cannot be the only concern when considering whether to continue subsidising the Post Office Network.
"Post Offices are the social heart of many communities, and without them many thousands of people, including many elderly and disabled, would be increasingly isolated."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-18 17:02:49
Green light for new power station
Plans to build a large gas-fired power station on the Derbyshire-Staffordshire border have been approved.
The facility - capable of producing enough power for one million homes - is being built on the site of the former coal-powered station at Drakelow.
The power station will use state-of-the-art technology to reduce the carbon emissions it produces.
It received government approval on Tuesday. The site could be up and running by early 2011.
The old cooling towers at Drakelow power station were demolished in a controlled explosion in September 2006.
Bob Taylor from E.ON UK said the new station would bring new jobs and investment to the area.
The plans had to be sent to the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform for official approval because of the size of the development.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-18 16:55:29
The facility - capable of producing enough power for one million homes - is being built on the site of the former coal-powered station at Drakelow.
The power station will use state-of-the-art technology to reduce the carbon emissions it produces.
It received government approval on Tuesday. The site could be up and running by early 2011.
The old cooling towers at Drakelow power station were demolished in a controlled explosion in September 2006.
Bob Taylor from E.ON UK said the new station would bring new jobs and investment to the area.
The plans had to be sent to the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform for official approval because of the size of the development.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-18 16:55:29
Flood help-no help at all
Government flood relief measures have been heavily criticised by the leader of Amber Valley Borough Council after the area received no financial aid.
Councillor Alan Cox said the method used for deciding which authorities would get extra funding, following this summer's flooding, was flawed.
Conservative-controlled Amber Valley did not receive emergency funds despite properties in Milford, Belper and Duffield being badly damaged when the Derwent overflowed in June. This was because it had not met the requirement of spending more than 0.2 per cent of its revenue budget on flood relief.
To receive money, the authority would have needed to spend £30,202 on taking immediate action to save lives, property or to prevent suffering or severe inconvenience as a result of disaster or emergency.
But during this year's flooding, the council spent only £5,000 on emergency assistance that the authority would not have been expected to provide as a matter of course.
Had it reached the 0.2 per cent threshold, the council would have received a repayment for the cash it had spent on emergency measures, which Mr Cox said was badly needed.
He said: "There are still people living in my ward (Belper North) who have not been able to go back to their homes.
"And voluntary organisations and sports clubs, such as Belper Town, were also badly affected.
"We would have spent some of the money on helping them."
Some councils also received emergency relief funds immediately after the floods struck, but Amber Valley did not receive any of this.
Mr Cox said: "We saved many houses by being ready for flooding and handing out sandbags. This cost money, but we are not getting any of it back. In a sense, we are being punished for being prepared."
Councils have until January 14 to make their final claim for cash to meet unexpected expenditure in dealing with emergencies.
Mr Cox said Amber Valley Borough Council would make a claim by the deadline if flooding caused further damage to the area before the end of the year.
He spoke following an announcement made earlier this week by floods recovery minister John Healey that he was surprised more local authorities were not making a claim for cash.
Mr Healey said: "Our overriding objective is to make payments fairly and as quickly as possible to the benefit of these communities who have already suffered so much.
"So I am surprised, in the light of continued media reports about calls from authorities for Government funding to support flood recovery, that to date we have received no applications for interim payments from the authorities concerned, even though we know 82 authorities have registered to submit a claim."
Derbyshire County Council said it was still calculating the cost of flood damage and did not know whether it had passed its 0.2 per cent threshold, which is £1.5m.
Paula McDonald, emergency planning officer at Erewash Borough Council, said her authority was in the same position.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-18 16:45:23
Councillor Alan Cox said the method used for deciding which authorities would get extra funding, following this summer's flooding, was flawed.
Conservative-controlled Amber Valley did not receive emergency funds despite properties in Milford, Belper and Duffield being badly damaged when the Derwent overflowed in June. This was because it had not met the requirement of spending more than 0.2 per cent of its revenue budget on flood relief.
To receive money, the authority would have needed to spend £30,202 on taking immediate action to save lives, property or to prevent suffering or severe inconvenience as a result of disaster or emergency.
But during this year's flooding, the council spent only £5,000 on emergency assistance that the authority would not have been expected to provide as a matter of course.
Had it reached the 0.2 per cent threshold, the council would have received a repayment for the cash it had spent on emergency measures, which Mr Cox said was badly needed.
He said: "There are still people living in my ward (Belper North) who have not been able to go back to their homes.
"And voluntary organisations and sports clubs, such as Belper Town, were also badly affected.
"We would have spent some of the money on helping them."
Some councils also received emergency relief funds immediately after the floods struck, but Amber Valley did not receive any of this.
Mr Cox said: "We saved many houses by being ready for flooding and handing out sandbags. This cost money, but we are not getting any of it back. In a sense, we are being punished for being prepared."
Councils have until January 14 to make their final claim for cash to meet unexpected expenditure in dealing with emergencies.
Mr Cox said Amber Valley Borough Council would make a claim by the deadline if flooding caused further damage to the area before the end of the year.
He spoke following an announcement made earlier this week by floods recovery minister John Healey that he was surprised more local authorities were not making a claim for cash.
Mr Healey said: "Our overriding objective is to make payments fairly and as quickly as possible to the benefit of these communities who have already suffered so much.
"So I am surprised, in the light of continued media reports about calls from authorities for Government funding to support flood recovery, that to date we have received no applications for interim payments from the authorities concerned, even though we know 82 authorities have registered to submit a claim."
Derbyshire County Council said it was still calculating the cost of flood damage and did not know whether it had passed its 0.2 per cent threshold, which is £1.5m.
Paula McDonald, emergency planning officer at Erewash Borough Council, said her authority was in the same position.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-18 16:45:23
World Cup Final on City's Big Screen
The Rugby World Cup final will be shown on the big screen in Derby's Market Place on Saturday night.
The city council has given the thumbs-up to show the clash between England and South Africa after a joint risk assessment by the authority and police.
The BBC had paid ITV1 for one-off rights to show the game, which is being played at the Saint Denis stadium in Paris.
Security guards are being employed by the council and the University of Derby - which helps pay for the running of the screen - to monitor the crowds watching the match from 8pm.
Sergeant Tony Rathbone, of Derby police, said the force had not seen any reason to block the showing.
He said: "This is one of the first times that the council has decided to put on a mass public event like this, so we shall see how the people of Derby behave.
"There won't be any set deployment of officers on the day - security will down to the council - but we will be monitoring the situation."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-18 16:43:17
The city council has given the thumbs-up to show the clash between England and South Africa after a joint risk assessment by the authority and police.
The BBC had paid ITV1 for one-off rights to show the game, which is being played at the Saint Denis stadium in Paris.
Security guards are being employed by the council and the University of Derby - which helps pay for the running of the screen - to monitor the crowds watching the match from 8pm.
Sergeant Tony Rathbone, of Derby police, said the force had not seen any reason to block the showing.
He said: "This is one of the first times that the council has decided to put on a mass public event like this, so we shall see how the people of Derby behave.
"There won't be any set deployment of officers on the day - security will down to the council - but we will be monitoring the situation."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-18 16:43:17
Rescue team saved by new HQ
A PEAK District mountain rescue team has been given a huge boost for the future by securing a new base with improved facilities.
Edale Mountain Rescue's headquarters had been put under threat by the onset of a major development by cement company Lafarge, who have supported the team for over 20 years with use of one of its buildings.
But the firm has turned the move to the team's advantage by including them in their restructuring of the Hope Works site.
Rob Small, chairman of the Edale Mountain Rescue Team (EMRT), said: "We are all very excited about these new facilities which are a vast improvement on the old base.
"We have six times the floor space, an undercover parking area for all four of our vehicles, warm and dry areas indoors for equipment maintenance, secure stores for medical supplies, indoor training and meeting rooms and offices.
"On top of this we have a new dedicated control room here – this allows us to coordinate operations more effectively.
"And the icing on the cake is our new indoor training wall which enables us to develop and practice techniques.
"We fully expect this to be the Edale Mountain Rescue Team's home for many years to come – it will enable us to increase our skills and make us an even stronger rescue service for the future."
The 50-strong rescue team respond to around 100 incidents a year across the Derbyshire Dales and Peak District to rescue walkers, climbers, horse riders and sports enthusiasts who have got into difficulty.
John Capewell, Lafarge's special projects manager, said: "The work of the EMRT is invaluable and makes an enormous difference to people visiting and living in this area. We were very keen from the start to ensure our links with the mountain rescue team were maintained and were delighted to be able to include them in our plans for the future of this site."
The team is still fundraising for new equipment. Contact Rob Small on 07799 893040 for more information.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-17 14:57:28
Edale Mountain Rescue's headquarters had been put under threat by the onset of a major development by cement company Lafarge, who have supported the team for over 20 years with use of one of its buildings.
But the firm has turned the move to the team's advantage by including them in their restructuring of the Hope Works site.
Rob Small, chairman of the Edale Mountain Rescue Team (EMRT), said: "We are all very excited about these new facilities which are a vast improvement on the old base.
"We have six times the floor space, an undercover parking area for all four of our vehicles, warm and dry areas indoors for equipment maintenance, secure stores for medical supplies, indoor training and meeting rooms and offices.
"On top of this we have a new dedicated control room here – this allows us to coordinate operations more effectively.
"And the icing on the cake is our new indoor training wall which enables us to develop and practice techniques.
"We fully expect this to be the Edale Mountain Rescue Team's home for many years to come – it will enable us to increase our skills and make us an even stronger rescue service for the future."
The 50-strong rescue team respond to around 100 incidents a year across the Derbyshire Dales and Peak District to rescue walkers, climbers, horse riders and sports enthusiasts who have got into difficulty.
John Capewell, Lafarge's special projects manager, said: "The work of the EMRT is invaluable and makes an enormous difference to people visiting and living in this area. We were very keen from the start to ensure our links with the mountain rescue team were maintained and were delighted to be able to include them in our plans for the future of this site."
The team is still fundraising for new equipment. Contact Rob Small on 07799 893040 for more information.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-17 14:57:28
Museum scoops huge lotto grant
Bakewell's Old House Museum has been awarded a grant of £382,000 from The Heritage Lottery Fund.
The Old House, which is Bakewell's oldest building, is situated behind the Parish church with a new gallery showing valuable collections and archives. This award follows other Lottery grants totalling almost £102,000 for the restoration of the traditional museum.
Many historical artefacts and collections will be displayed for visitors to enjoy following the extended exhibition space. The Privy will be restored to its original context of the Arkwright era, and rooms in the residence will be redesigned to illustrate the life of one of its residents and his family; Mr. Pitt the night soil remover.
Emma Sale, regional manager said: "I am delighted that this fantastic museum will be able to open up its collection to the public through this HLF funding.
"Bakewell is a very popular tourist destination within the East Midlands and is situated within the Peak District National Park and is very close to the Derwent Valley World Heritage Site. It is fantastic that their incredible exhibits will be brought back to life in their original format and it will ultimately remain as Bakewell's top visitor attraction."
The opening of the museum will showcase the last 500 years of Bakewell, from Tudor agriculture through Georgian industry to the history of Bakewell pudding. Better access will also be available including a lift for disabled visitors.
George Challenger from Bakewell Museum said: "We are delighted to learn that the Heritage Lottery Fund has awarded this generous grant. It will enable us to carry out the work we have been planning for several years.
"We are also very grateful to the Peak District National Park Authority for awarding a £15,000 Sustainable Development Fund grant. We aim to make the museum more environmentally friendly and ensure that it will always be here for the people of Bakewell and visitors to enjoy."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-17 14:55:01
The Old House, which is Bakewell's oldest building, is situated behind the Parish church with a new gallery showing valuable collections and archives. This award follows other Lottery grants totalling almost £102,000 for the restoration of the traditional museum.
Many historical artefacts and collections will be displayed for visitors to enjoy following the extended exhibition space. The Privy will be restored to its original context of the Arkwright era, and rooms in the residence will be redesigned to illustrate the life of one of its residents and his family; Mr. Pitt the night soil remover.
Emma Sale, regional manager said: "I am delighted that this fantastic museum will be able to open up its collection to the public through this HLF funding.
"Bakewell is a very popular tourist destination within the East Midlands and is situated within the Peak District National Park and is very close to the Derwent Valley World Heritage Site. It is fantastic that their incredible exhibits will be brought back to life in their original format and it will ultimately remain as Bakewell's top visitor attraction."
The opening of the museum will showcase the last 500 years of Bakewell, from Tudor agriculture through Georgian industry to the history of Bakewell pudding. Better access will also be available including a lift for disabled visitors.
George Challenger from Bakewell Museum said: "We are delighted to learn that the Heritage Lottery Fund has awarded this generous grant. It will enable us to carry out the work we have been planning for several years.
"We are also very grateful to the Peak District National Park Authority for awarding a £15,000 Sustainable Development Fund grant. We aim to make the museum more environmentally friendly and ensure that it will always be here for the people of Bakewell and visitors to enjoy."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-17 14:55:01
Station sell off dispute settled
A row over money made from the sale of Derby's old Full Street police station has been resolved.
The station, along with the magistrates court, was sold in 2004 for £4.25m but a dispute arose over a £425,000 slice.
The city council claimed the police authority went back on an agreement about how the money would be split after the site was sold.
An independent arbitrator has now ruled in favour of the city council - and awarded it an extra £90,000.
Council leader Chris Williamson said he was delighted: "I think it is very much a vindication of the council's position on this.
"To be honest I am pretty surprised the police authority pushed the matter as far as they did and I think this has left them with egg on their faces."
The authority said it was glad the matter was resolved and said it would fully abide by the decision.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-17 14:52:46
The station, along with the magistrates court, was sold in 2004 for £4.25m but a dispute arose over a £425,000 slice.
The city council claimed the police authority went back on an agreement about how the money would be split after the site was sold.
An independent arbitrator has now ruled in favour of the city council - and awarded it an extra £90,000.
Council leader Chris Williamson said he was delighted: "I think it is very much a vindication of the council's position on this.
"To be honest I am pretty surprised the police authority pushed the matter as far as they did and I think this has left them with egg on their faces."
The authority said it was glad the matter was resolved and said it would fully abide by the decision.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-17 14:52:46
What's your favourite Derbyshire attraction?
People are being asked to name the Derbyshire attraction they are most proud of.
Councils around the county are launching a Pride of Place online poll today to find out where locals would take visitors to show off the county.
It is part of the Government's Connect to your Council campaign to encourage residents across England to access local council services online.
People can now use council websites to find out anything from planning information to applying for school places.
The nationwide poll will run until November 30.
To cast a vote for your special Derbyshire place, log on to the following local authority websites and click on the Pride of Place icon: www.ambervalley.gov.uk, www.erewash . gov.uk, www.south-derbys . gov.uk.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-17 14:48:45
Councils around the county are launching a Pride of Place online poll today to find out where locals would take visitors to show off the county.
It is part of the Government's Connect to your Council campaign to encourage residents across England to access local council services online.
People can now use council websites to find out anything from planning information to applying for school places.
The nationwide poll will run until November 30.
To cast a vote for your special Derbyshire place, log on to the following local authority websites and click on the Pride of Place icon: www.ambervalley.gov.uk, www.erewash . gov.uk, www.south-derbys . gov.uk.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-17 14:48:45
Hardwick Hall on BBC
A Derbyshire stately home is to feature on a BBC television series documenting Britain's natural history.
The new BBC series, the Nature of Britain, hosted by Alan Titchmarsh, explores the vibrant nature of Britain and its wildlife.
On Wednesday, October 17, Hardwick Park Farm, at Hardwick Hall, will be highlighted during a special section dedicated to nature in the East Midlands.
The farm is currently undergoing a major restoration programme to bring back wildlife and attract visitors.
National Trust share farmers Richard and Clare Aldis have been working for more than two years to make farming and conservation work together.
So far, rare breeds of cattle have been reintroduced, a farm shop set up and a countryside stewardship agreement is being put into place to restore the parkland.
Programme presenter Sanjida O'Connell said: "It was a great privilege to see hares wrestling and running all over the parkland - it just shows what an impact this project is having on the wildlife."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-17 14:44:55
The new BBC series, the Nature of Britain, hosted by Alan Titchmarsh, explores the vibrant nature of Britain and its wildlife.
On Wednesday, October 17, Hardwick Park Farm, at Hardwick Hall, will be highlighted during a special section dedicated to nature in the East Midlands.
The farm is currently undergoing a major restoration programme to bring back wildlife and attract visitors.
National Trust share farmers Richard and Clare Aldis have been working for more than two years to make farming and conservation work together.
So far, rare breeds of cattle have been reintroduced, a farm shop set up and a countryside stewardship agreement is being put into place to restore the parkland.
Programme presenter Sanjida O'Connell said: "It was a great privilege to see hares wrestling and running all over the parkland - it just shows what an impact this project is having on the wildlife."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-17 14:44:55
Mobile Speed Camera Sites
Derbyshire Safety Camera Team has announced the locations of its mobile speed cameras.
In Derby they will be at The Hollow, Littleover, London Road, Kedleston Road, Stenson Road and Ashbourne Road.
Outside the city, cameras will be in place on the B6179 at Little Eaton,; A514, Swadlincote and Ticknall; Quarry Hill Road, Ilkeston; Park Road, Newhall; A6005 Draycott to Breaston and the A52 near Brailsford.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-17 14:41:48
In Derby they will be at The Hollow, Littleover, London Road, Kedleston Road, Stenson Road and Ashbourne Road.
Outside the city, cameras will be in place on the B6179 at Little Eaton,; A514, Swadlincote and Ticknall; Quarry Hill Road, Ilkeston; Park Road, Newhall; A6005 Draycott to Breaston and the A52 near Brailsford.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-17 14:41:48
Sudbury Joke Continues
Three prisoners have walked out of a Derbyshire open prison - raising the total of absconders to 57 this year.
Barry Scott Plant and Scott Anthony Harris went on the run from Sudbury Prison on Friday and Adam Ward, also known as Adam Lowndes, left on Sunday.
Last year, 87 prisoners fled Sudbury Prison.
Is there anyone left in the prison?
What bonus will prison staff get this year?
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-17 14:36:10
Barry Scott Plant and Scott Anthony Harris went on the run from Sudbury Prison on Friday and Adam Ward, also known as Adam Lowndes, left on Sunday.
Last year, 87 prisoners fled Sudbury Prison.
Is there anyone left in the prison?
What bonus will prison staff get this year?
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-17 14:36:10
Abbey revamp wins approval
Renovations are set to be carried out at Calke Abbey after planning permission was granted.
The National Trust applied to South Derbyshire District Council for listed building consent to carry out work on the tourist attraction in Ticknall.
Planners approved the proposal for the introduction of wicket doors to the south elevation, replacement of coach and stable doors and the reinstatement of 18th-century decorative timber to the viewing gallery.
The renovations also include the removal of modern brick infill panels to the north elevation.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-17 13:17:07
The National Trust applied to South Derbyshire District Council for listed building consent to carry out work on the tourist attraction in Ticknall.
Planners approved the proposal for the introduction of wicket doors to the south elevation, replacement of coach and stable doors and the reinstatement of 18th-century decorative timber to the viewing gallery.
The renovations also include the removal of modern brick infill panels to the north elevation.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-17 13:17:07
Rockin good time for charity bash
THIS year's Good Time Charity Event at the Palace Hotel features a mouth-watering double bill of two of the Peak District's finest bands.
Route 66 and All or Nothing are on the bill with the inimitable Gary Bentley as DJ and compere on Friday, November 16. This is the event's fourth year and it will appeal to music lovers from across the High Peak.
Route 66, whose new CD "Down on my Luck" will be available on the night, have earned a great reputation for their in-yer-face rocking rhythm and blues. Co-headliners All or Nothing will get audiences dancing down memory lane with classic good time covers from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s.
The Palace Hotel will be offering a drinks promotion on the night and there will also be a raffle supported by local businesses.
This year, monies raised will be donated to Children in Need and the Imagine appeal for the Alder Hey Children's Hospital. The event is being organised and promoted free of charge by First Choice Musical Solutions in Buxton.
* Tickets are £7 and are still available (but limited) in Buxton from First Choice Musical Solutions (off Staden Lane), the Palace Hotel, Conways DIY, Lone Star, Francesco's Hair, Bon Appetit Delicatessen and, in Chapel-en-le Frith, from Stag Glass.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-12 08:03:01
Route 66 and All or Nothing are on the bill with the inimitable Gary Bentley as DJ and compere on Friday, November 16. This is the event's fourth year and it will appeal to music lovers from across the High Peak.
Route 66, whose new CD "Down on my Luck" will be available on the night, have earned a great reputation for their in-yer-face rocking rhythm and blues. Co-headliners All or Nothing will get audiences dancing down memory lane with classic good time covers from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s.
The Palace Hotel will be offering a drinks promotion on the night and there will also be a raffle supported by local businesses.
This year, monies raised will be donated to Children in Need and the Imagine appeal for the Alder Hey Children's Hospital. The event is being organised and promoted free of charge by First Choice Musical Solutions in Buxton.
* Tickets are £7 and are still available (but limited) in Buxton from First Choice Musical Solutions (off Staden Lane), the Palace Hotel, Conways DIY, Lone Star, Francesco's Hair, Bon Appetit Delicatessen and, in Chapel-en-le Frith, from Stag Glass.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-12 08:03:01
TV chef Rachel at Peak Food fair
TELEVISION chef Rachel Green – author of the new Chatsworth Cookery Book – is set to share her culinary secrets at the Peak District's premier annual showcase for the area's finest food, drink, arts and crafts.
Rachel, well-known for the Yorkshire TV series The Flying Cook and World on a Plate, will demonstrate her down-to-earth approach to food preparation and cooking at the Great Peak District Fair at the Pavilion Gardens, Buxton, on Sunday, October 28.
The Lincolnshire-born chef will join a distinguished line-up of local chefs in the Fair's demonstration kitchen.
Others will include Max Fischer of Michelin-starred Fischer's of Baslow Hall, James Grant of Rowley's in Baslow and Ralph Skripek of The Butler's Pantry in Littleover, Derby.
The Great Peak District Fair and Food Fest Week will promote the environmental, economic and ethical benefits of supporting local producers and businesses from October 27 to November 4.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-12 08:01:42
Rachel, well-known for the Yorkshire TV series The Flying Cook and World on a Plate, will demonstrate her down-to-earth approach to food preparation and cooking at the Great Peak District Fair at the Pavilion Gardens, Buxton, on Sunday, October 28.
The Lincolnshire-born chef will join a distinguished line-up of local chefs in the Fair's demonstration kitchen.
Others will include Max Fischer of Michelin-starred Fischer's of Baslow Hall, James Grant of Rowley's in Baslow and Ralph Skripek of The Butler's Pantry in Littleover, Derby.
The Great Peak District Fair and Food Fest Week will promote the environmental, economic and ethical benefits of supporting local producers and businesses from October 27 to November 4.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-12 08:01:42
Queen to Dedicate Memorial
The Queen will attend a ceremony to dedicate the Armed Forces memorial at the National Arboretum.
The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, will accompany Her Majesty at the Alrewas arboretum on Friday.
It is the first national memorial to be dedicated to men and women of the UK Armed Forces killed on duty or as a result of terrorist action since the Second World War.
It bears the names of the 16,000 personnel who have lost their lives in service since 1945.
The memorial stands on a small hill in the Arboretum, next to the River Trent, and is made of Portland stone.
Architect Liam O'Connor designed the memorial so that a slit in the south-east wall would allow a beam of sunlight to fall on the centre stone at exactly 11am on Armistice Day, November 11.
It has space for 30,000 names.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-10 10:31:31
The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, will accompany Her Majesty at the Alrewas arboretum on Friday.
It is the first national memorial to be dedicated to men and women of the UK Armed Forces killed on duty or as a result of terrorist action since the Second World War.
It bears the names of the 16,000 personnel who have lost their lives in service since 1945.
The memorial stands on a small hill in the Arboretum, next to the River Trent, and is made of Portland stone.
Architect Liam O'Connor designed the memorial so that a slit in the south-east wall would allow a beam of sunlight to fall on the centre stone at exactly 11am on Armistice Day, November 11.
It has space for 30,000 names.
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-10 10:31:31
Fishing lake proposal is rejected
Proposals to create a lake for fishing in Little Eaton have been rejected by Erewash Borough Council because planners felt the development would destroy part of a wildlife site.
Developer Roger Bullivant applied to the council for permission to create a lake at Abbey Hill, in Alfreton Road.
Under the plans, the lake would have been used for fishing and the scheme would have included a toilet block and car park.
Officers in the council's planning department rejected the application because they said that the proposal would destroy part of the area.
The notice of refusal said that the development would "result in the destruction of the majority of the key features which qualify the site as a designated local wildlife site."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-10 10:33:38
Developer Roger Bullivant applied to the council for permission to create a lake at Abbey Hill, in Alfreton Road.
Under the plans, the lake would have been used for fishing and the scheme would have included a toilet block and car park.
Officers in the council's planning department rejected the application because they said that the proposal would destroy part of the area.
The notice of refusal said that the development would "result in the destruction of the majority of the key features which qualify the site as a designated local wildlife site."
Chris Sabian, Peak District View - 2007-10-10 10:33:38
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