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Images released of man wanted in connection with Northampton fuel theft

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CCTV images of the driver of a white Ford Transit who left a Northampton petrol station without paying have been released by police.

Northamptonshire Police believe the man may have information about the theft at the BP on St James' Road.

On Thursday, September 14 at about 8.50pm, the man drove onto the forecourt, dispensed fuel into the white Ford Transit and left without paying.

The man pictured or anyone who knows him can contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.


‘High value’ jewellery stolen in Wellingborough burglary

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Burglars stole high value jewellery after breaking into a house in Wellingborough.

The incident took place between 5pm and midnight on Saturday, November 25, at a house in Hatton Street.

The offenders also stole electrical accessories.

Officers would like to speak to anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity in the area at the time.

Witnesses or anyone with information about this incident can contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Northampton Saints players strip down to psychedelic pants for charity calendar

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More than a dozen rugby players have stripped off in support of fellow Saintsman, Christian Day in his latest venture to raise funds for his chosen charities, Niamh’s Next Step and The Leon Barwell Foundation in his testimonial year.

The black and white calendar features just a touch of colour in the form of the psychedelic pants covering the models’ modesty.

Among those to undress are back row forwards, Courtney Lawes and Teimana Harrison, who take the spot for September, while winger Ken Pisi goes it alone as Mr April. Mikey Haywood, Jamal Ford-Robinson and Paul Hill can also be seen in June.

Christian Day said: “The boys work so hard to keep themselves in great shape for their rugby that I reckon they quietly enjoy parading their muscles when they’re given a chance.

“But the real reason for supporting me in this rather unusual way is because they also want to raise as much money as possible for the charities, while I think it helped that I’m leading by example as the model for February, aided and abetted by my good mate Stephen Myler."

Christian’s limited-edition calendar will be on sale at home matches priced at £10 and can be bought on website, www.day5testimonial.com.

Samurai swords and knives handed in at Northampton weapons amnesty after two women injured in shooting

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Three samurai swords and six "bladed articles" have been handed in at a knife amnesty in Northampton following a shooting.

Since the shooting in South Holme Court in Thorplands on Friday, November 17 - when two women received minor injuries and were taken to hospital - members of the Northampton North East Policing Team conducted a knife surrender in a bid to make our streets safer.

As part of the conditions of the amnesty, anyone who has handed in a knife and bladed item on the day will not face criminal repercussions at a later date if the weapon has been involved in a crime.

At the knife amnesty held outside shops in Farmfield Court, PC Tom Hill said: "There is an overall amnesty called Operation Sceptre, which is a knife crime amnesty. But this [amnesty] is in response to the incident, which happened on November 17, in Thorplands."

He said that he is often left stunned by the type of weapon handed in.

"Sadly these are they types of things we see people carrying on the streets quite regularly. So we want people to hand them in and help reduce harm around the area so there is fewer weapons on the streets.

"Some people might be shocked to see us standing here but sadly because of the amount of incidents we come across we have to do it and help increase awareness about it.

"We just see the same kinds of weapons, all kinds of different knives - some are more shocking than others. We have seen zombie knives that some people have handed in. They are slightly more lethal with a serrated blade, and is only to cause injury or harm - when we have had them handed in it's been shocking.

"Today, it's just a few kitchen knives and samurai swords."

The knives will be disposed of by the property team at a Northamptonshire police station.

'We grew up in libraries': Northamptonshire's authors pen protest letter to county council over cuts

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Northamptonshire's authors are banding together to ask the county council to spare community libraries from cuts.

The county's best-selling writers have put pen to paper to oppose a plan to cut some £10million from public services, which could see up to 21 libraries shut.

Led by Northampton-born multi-million selling author and Sue Bentley, best known for her "Magic Kitten" series, they are appealing to councillors that the libraries help shape people and communities.

A consultation on the cuts offers three options for the libraries, all of which would close at least 15 smaller libraries in the county.

The letter was written ahead of a motion to offer the public a "spare the libraries" option as part of the public consultation on the cuts. The motion was defeated 32 to 11 against at a full council meeting on Friday (November 24).

Sue said: "The consultation is undemocratic. The public has been offered a choice between cuts, cuts and cuts.

"In the past 10 years, 170million of my books have been borrowed from libraries across the UK. You could say that leaves me out of pocket. But I take it on the chin. It's far more important that we have a healthy libraries system that's free at the point of service to everyone.

"I've worked in-and-out of libraries since I was 16 for around 30 years. I have seen how important they are to communities. They've already lost their pubs and post offices and now they could lose their libraries."

The letter to the county council protesting the cuts was sent earlier this month. It was signed by author of the "DI Will Jackman" series author Jane Isaac, "The Boy who Drew the Future" writer Rhian Ivory and Sunday Times bestseller Sue Moorcroft.

International bestselling author Louise Jensen, horror writer Mark West and author of "Mrs Sinclair's Suitcase" Louise Walters have also lent their name to the effort.

The letter reads: "We oppose any cuts to the service. We grew up using libraries. The free access to books was pivotal in our formative years and we collectively believe it was instrumental in our careers.

"They have become a vital hub in their communities. From the Sure Start centres, to IT training, to rhyme time, to reading groups, to information about all kinds of services – our Northamptonshire communities benefit in so many ways from having in their midst functioning, local authority-run libraries."

Northamptonshire County Council says it has no choice but to look at plans to change the way libraries are run in the county.

In a statement, a spokesman said: “Due to the authority’s significant funding pressures, we have no option but to consult on a proposed review of the current model for Northamptonshire libraries.

“We are committed to maintaining a library service that continues to serve the most people who borrow items and those who use the library for other services, such as computer workshops, registration services and access to borough and district council services,” the statement added.

“The proposals have been drawn up to take into account geographical location, deprivation indicators, patterns of usage, book borrowing and visitor numbers.

“The library provision is already hosted within the community centre in Moulton, and the council’s consultation is asking whether there is further opportunity for a community-managed library option to be developed.

“We are currently consulting on the proposals and people have until January 13 to have their say.

“All consultation feedback will be analysed and considered, and will help councillors make a final decision at the full council meeting on February 22, 2018.”

'Front line' libraries more important than county council's 'back office' services, says Northamptonshire's Lib Dems

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An opposition leader is calling on the county council to cut their own "back office" big-budget spends over Northamptonshire's "front line" libraries and trading standards teams.

Leader of the Liberal Democrats Chris Stanbra says the council must choose between its own internal teams and libraries used by communities.

It comes after Lib Dem county councillors teased they had a "secret plan to save the libraries" at a full council meeting last week.

Some £10million of cuts to public services have been announced for next year, which includes closing up to 21 libraries and making nearly half the county's trading standards team redundant.

Sign the Chronicle & Echo's petition for more Government funds for Northamptonshire.
The Lib Dems now want the council to cut their own internal "performance measuring" and comms teams first.

Councillor Stanbra said: "They are back-office services that to me come under the banner of 'nice to have'.

"Libraries are vital frontline services and shouldn't be cut in favour of back-office services.

"I expect they have looked at this as an option. They will say they have cut it to the bone, but we are at the point where they have to justify why they are more important to the county council and the people of Northamptonshire than libraries and trading standards."

A motion to offer the public a "spare the libraries" option as part of the public consultation on the cuts was defeated 32 to 11 against at a full council meeting on Friday (November 24).

At the same meeting, councillor Brian Meredith, Lib Dems, said: "We've actually found the money within the county council to save the libraries. We know where we can get the money from."

In short, the Lib Dems are asking the county council to instead make cuts to two "back office" services to save the "front line" libraries and trading standards team.

The first is the "Business Intelligence and Project Management" team, with a budget of £2.5million, which measures how the council is performing through stats.

The second is the Comms and Marketing Team, with a budget of £270,000, which manages the council's press office and communications.

Councillor Stanbra said: "Of course the council want a robust, well-funded comms team and a business intelligence unit telling them how to improve. But to us, much more important than that is libraries and trading standards."

A Northamptonshire County Council spokesman said: “All areas of the council are now being reviewed as part of the work to identify further savings for phase 2 of the budget-setting process for 2018/19.

“There is already a budget savings relating to the communications and marketing function currently being consulted upon as part of the phase 1 budget proposals."

Wife to honour Northampton husband who was killed in plane crash 25 years ago

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A Northampton woman, whose husband was killed while he was on-board a passenger jet, is hosting a special event for the 25th anniversary for flight LN1103.

Felicity Prazak of Battersea lost her Northampton husband, Victor Prazak, then 36, on December 22, 1992 when he was on board flight LN1103 before it plummeted to the ground on its approach to Tripoli airport, killing all 157 passengers and crew on board in the worst aviation disaster in its history.

To honour her husband and all victims of the plane crash, Felicity is set to host two events next month.

The first part is an exhibition of her art work that has aided Felicity to work through the trauma and grief, which will be held at the Square Gallery, Battersea, from 6pm – 9pm on Thursday, December, 21.

The second event will be an 'expression of remembrance' to honour the life of Victor Prazak and others killed by Libyan terrorism at St Marys Church in Battersea Church Road at 10.30am on Friday, December 22.

Felicity Prazak said: "I was not allowed to go to my own husband’s funeral, all the victims of the atrocity were bulldozed up and dumped in a mass grave hidden from all the relatives. When people think they have rights, I was not even granted the decency to attend my own husband’s funeral, nor was the body returned as I requested it many times over the years. Nor was I given a crash report or the right to an inquest.

"I petitioned both the Libyan government and the UK government to take my children to the grave site. Finally after a wait of seven years this was granted."

Felicity's children, Theo and Tallena were just three and four years old when their dad was taken from them.

Felicity added: "One of Victor's friends once described him 'as larger than life'. Strong, rugged and handsome.

"Victor lived every moment to the full. A true gentleman and a loving husband and father. He dreamed big and we had brought a run-down chateau in France.

"Victor worked hard, often in isolated conditions working long months abroad - Libya, Saudi and Holland - so that he could provide for his family. He could fix anything and would help anyone in need. Victor always made me laugh and bring a smile within, knowing how lucky I was to have met and married such a wonderful, amazing man. He was my best friend and my soulmate. Anyone who knew him was richer for having him as a friend."

Northampton Borough Council struggling to match Government promise to replace properties sold via Right To Buy, data suggests

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Council-managed homes in Northampton are being sold but not replaced despite a Government promise to do so made in 2012.

Northampton Borough Council’s social housing stock, managed by Northampton Partnership Homes, has steadily decreased over the last five years even though the Government pledged to replace one-for-one any council properties sold via the national Right To Buy scheme.

Government figures show there were 12,100 properties under the authority’s management in Northampton in 2012. In November 2017, the tally stands at 11,586, a loss of 514.

Right To Buy gives council house tenants and some housing associations the opportunity to buy the property at a discount price.

As part of the agreements which helped form the 2012 coalition Government, a pledge to replace each property sold via the Right To Buy scheme with a new home was made - in other words for every house sold, one would be built.

However, it is not clear whether this means a four-bed house would be replaced with a similar sized one or a smaller property.

A Freedom of Information request revealed that 521 properties have been sold by the council since the first quarter of 2012-13.

Of those sold more than 80 per cent were family homes: 199 were two-bed homes, 219 were three-beds, 16 were four-beds and four were five-beds.

In the same time period, construction on around 20 per cent of that overall number begun. In September 2016, National Audit Office data showed the Government was struggling nationally to match its pledge.

Housing campaigner Norman Adams said: “The most concerning is since 2012 the Government said they would replace the houses one-for-one… that’s not happened.

“We have got thousands of people on the housing list. They are farming the properties out to the private sector.

“Luckily I’m over 70 and I am settled. I wouldn’t want to be in my 30s now trying to start a family, it’s difficult.

He added: “Housing has changed so much. When I was young you could get a council house and you didn’t have to wait that long.

“Their grandchildren have it a damned sight harder.”


Northampton lecturer's appeal for researchers to delve into Racecourse’s Great War history for heritage project

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Volunteers are being sought to take part in a project that aims to unearth the wartime history of a Northampton park.

The University of Northampton has received £10,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund to research and produce a documentary about the Racecourse during the First World War.

The project, In War and Peace – the Changing Face of Northampton’s Racecourse, will focus on the park between 1914 and 1918 when it was commandeered as a staging post for troops, through to when it became allotments in the latter years of the war.

Tim said: “Much of this research is likely to entail ‘old-school’ research techniques, as much of the material is probably most likely to be found on microfiche in Northampton Central Library.”

Tim, who grew up a stone’s throw from the Racecourse, added: “We are thrilled to have received support from the National Lottery to delve into the war time events in a place that is as much lived in today as it was back then in 1914, albeit of course, in different, tragic, circumstances.

"Although those events may seem distant they can reverberate back to us through our better understanding of the place in which they unfolded.

Using Northamptonshire resources, the project will enable volunteers to research information about the events that took place within the area, which then may feed into the production of a short documentary. The documentary will include interviews with local historians and authors, proving an insight into life within and outside the base.

The project was the idea of Northamptonian Tim Coley, a senior lecturer in Media Production at the University’s Avenue Campus, which borders the Racecourse.

He is appealing for people to join the research team, helping to dig out stories by trawling through local newspapers and interviewing residents, or those who can loan photographs or documents relating to the Racecourse during the Great War.

Tim said: “War was declared on August 4 and by the end of the month reports say around 16,000 Welsh soldiers had set up camp at the Racecourse. It must have been such an incredible spectacle and had a huge impact on what was then a fairly small provincial town. We can’t wait to find out more about this period of great change in Northampton.”

For further information about the project and volunteering for research please contact Anthony Stepniak at the University of Northampton by emailing racecoursefilmenquiries@northampton.ac.uk

​​

What parents need to look for as cases of Scarlet Fever reaches 50-year high in England

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Scarlet fever hit its highest level in England for 50 years, with more than 17,000 cases reported in 2016 - research in the Lancet shows.

The disease has been on the rise since 2014, but experts have so far failed to find a reason for the recent increase.

What is Scarlet Fever?

Scarlet fever is a bacterial illness that mainly affects children and is distinctive due to its pink-red rash. It is highly contagious and should be treated with antibiotics.

Dr Theresa Lamagni, the body’s head of streptococcal infection surveillance, said: “Whilst scarlet fever is not usually a severe illness it should be treated with antibiotics to reduce the risk of further complications and to minimise the risk of spread to others.”

What are the symptoms?

Dr Lamagni added: “Individuals should be mindful of the symptoms of scarlet fever, which include a sore throat, headache and fever with a sandpapery, fine, pinkish/red rash developing within one to two days of first symptoms.

“If you or your child develops any of these symptoms you should contact your GP. Children or adults diagnosed with scarlet fever are advised to stay at home until at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment to avoid spreading the infection to others.”

A Public Health England spokeswoman added: “It’s not uncommon to see more cases of scarlet fever during winter and spring.

“Although we have seen a small increase in cases this year, scarlet fever is usually a mild illness that can be treated with antibiotics to reduce the risk of further complications and to minimise the risk of its spread to others.

“Children or adults diagnosed with scarlet fever are advised to stay at home until at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment to avoid spreading the infection to others.”

Where can I find out more?

For more information, visit the NHS Choices website here

Little Mix to bring Summer Hits Tour to Northampton

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Pop superstars Little Mix will bring their UK tour to the County Ground in Northampton in next year.

After kicking off in Hove in July, they will headline the Wantage Road venue on Thursday, July 12, as part of their Summer Hits Tour 2018.

The gig will see Little Mix play hits including Touch, Shout Out to My Ex, Black Magic and Wings.

Little Mix recently released The Platinum Edition of their smash hit album Glory Days.

The original version of the album spent five weeks at the top of the UK Albums Chart, surpassing any other album released by a female group this century and becoming the longest- reigning girl group number one album since Spice Girls’ debut 20 years ago.

They have continued their run of hit singles in 2017 with smashes such as Touch, No More Sad Songs, Power and Reggaeton Lento (Remix).

Tickets and hospitality packages go on sale this Thursday, November 30, at 9.30am via www.little-mix.com and https://northantscrickettickets.com

MORE STORIES FROM THE CHRON:

Northampton Borough Council struggling to match Government promise to replace properties sold via Right To Buy, data suggests

https://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/news/northampton-borough-council-struggling-to-match-government-promise-to-replace-properties-sold-via-right-to-buy-data-suggests-1-8265277

'Front line' libraries more important than county council's 'back office' services, says Northamptonshire's Lib Dems

https://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/news/front-line-libraries-more-important-than-county-council-s-back-office-services-says-northamptonshire-s-lib-dems-1-8265113

Mallinder knows Saints must beat Falcons

https://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/sport/mallinder-knows-saints-must-beat-falcons-1-8263742

'We grew up in libraries': Northamptonshire's authors pen protest letter to county council over cuts

https://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/news/we-grew-up-in-libraries-northamptonshire-s-authors-pen-protest-letter-to-county-council-over-cuts-1-8265284

Tools stolen from Kettering construction site

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Police are appealing for witnesses following a burglary at a construction site in Kettering.

Offenders broke into the Westhill site off Northampton Road between 5pm on Friday, November 24, and 10am on Saturday, November 25 and stole tools.

Officers would like to speak to anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity in the area at the time.

Witnesses or anyone with information about this incident can contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Kettering man conned elderly victims with dementia

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A Kettering man who dishonestly tried to obtain money from people with dementia has been given a Criminal Behaviour Order.

Jason Orton, 42, of Poppy Fields, had previously been subject to a Community Protection Notice which he had breached on a number of occasions by targeting vulnerable victims.

These resulted in multiple safeguarding referrals made in relation to concerns about victims, some of whom suffered from dementia.

The order, which follows an application submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service, means Orton is barred from entering an address in Kettering and prohibited from making contact with a number of named witnesses.

He has also been prevented from causing “nuisance or harassment by approaching any member of the public in Northamptonshire with a view to begging, cheating or otherwise dishonestly seeking to gain money or property”.

The order will remain in place indefinitely.

Supt Chris Hillery, head of local policing in Northamptonshire, said: “We are pleased to have secured this order on Orton who poses a significant risk to vulnerable people in our community and this action supports our key purpose in protecting people from harm.

“The CBO both safeguards his victims and any potential future ones and allows the wider community in Kettering and Wellingborough to be aware of who he is and, if necessary, to report his behaviour to Northamptonshire Police via 101.”

Asda launch foot long chocolate eclair

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The most gluttonous time of the year just got a bit more decadent as Asda have just revealed their latest addition to the bakery aisle – a foot long chocolate éclair.

The classic French dessert has been given a mammoth size makeup by the supermarket to bring a certain je ne sais quo to the supermarket shelves this December.

The colossal size pudding, which is inspired by an emerging trend for oversized sharing desserts in Paris, retails at £5.00 and is made with light choux pastry, filled with fluffy Belgian chocolate mousse and sticky caramel sauce and topped with a chocolate fondant.

Claire Reed, product development manager for chilled bakery, said: “Straight from the streets of Paris to Asda shelves, traditional French favourites can now be enjoyed by the whole family this Christmas.

Reed added: “Our experts have lovingly hand finished our striking new desserts, adding the final touch of affordable luxury to your seasonal soirée – sure to leave your loved ones saying Oh La La!”.

The showstopping Giant Éclair centrepiece will be available in Asda stores from 14th December.

Officers continue regular patrols of Thorplands following shooting earlier this month

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Northamptonshire Police officers continue to conduct regular patrols of Thorplands following a shooting earlier this month.

During the weekend officers patrolling the area in Northampton arrested six people for a variety of offences, including burglary, immigration offences, affray and possession of Class B drugs.

Detectives are continuing to investigate the shooting which took place in South Holme Court, on Friday, November 17.

Officers from the Force Proactive Team conducted patrols throughout the weekend which also saw them recover two long screwdrivers, a baseball bat, knife, crossbow and machete.

As well as the Proactive Team, members of the local Neighbourhood Team have been conducting regular patrols in the area, as have officers with off-road bikes. Officers have also been working with schools, businesses and shops to offer reassurance in the last week and used anti-social behaviour dispersal powers to tackle issues in the area.

Chief Inspector Lara Alexander-Lloyd from Northamptonshire Police said: “This was a serious incident which we have responded to robustly, deploying officers to patrol the area as well as speak to the local community.

“In the immediate aftermath of the incident officers were granted additional powers, allowing them to conduct stop searches without the usual grounds required. We have also used anti-social behaviour dispersal powers in the Thorplands area.

“Officers patrolling the area in the last couple of weeks have recovered numerous weapons, including machetes, knives, a crossbow, baseball bat and long screwdrivers, all of which could cause harm to innocent members of the public.”

Detectives continue to investigate the incident which saw two women, who were passengers in a car which was shot, receive minor injuries. Police also received reports of a group of people carrying knives in the area of South Holme Court, at about 6pm on Friday, November 17.

CI Alexander-Lloyd added: “We are committed to keeping people safe and I hope our response to the incident offers some reassurance to local people that we are taking this matter seriously.

“Anyone with information about the disorder on 17 November, can call police on 101 or independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

A 22-year-old man arrested in connection with the shooting was released under investigation pending further enquiries.


WATCH: Pedestrian falls in front of moving car and bus in Northampton

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Dash-cam footage has shown a man almost get hit by a bus and a car as he falls into a busy Northampton road into oncoming traffic.

The pedestrian was narrowly missed by two vehicles in Abington Street on September 29 last year when Harrison York was driving - in the company of his partner, Nikki and his three-month-old daughter, Maisie - into town to do some shopping.

The video shows a double-decker bus coming to a halt before Harrison's car pulls up beside it, just before a man flies out onto the road and leaving unscathed.

Harrison's friend, Matthew Fishlock, sent in the video to the Chronicle & Echo. He said: "He was shocked and glad he didn't run him over. His reactions were impressive."

Matthew says this incident should be a sign for drivers to be more aware of their surroundings and speed limits.

PHOTOS: Carols, classics and festive hits at Northampton disabled care centre's annual Christmas concert

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A Northampton learning disability day centre wished a packed room of friends and family a merry Christmas at their annual sing-a-long concert.

A choir of service users at the Caring & Sharing Trust Day Centre, in Cotton's Farmhouse, Cogenhoe, sang a round of carols, classic and festive hits last week (November 24).

The morning saw Minister Andrea Leadsom MP, deputy mayor of Northampton Tony Ansell and Northamptonshire Police Chief Constable Simon Edens join in the fun on stage.

A raffle and a coffee morning with mince pies were held straight after to help raise funds for the charity, which has been working with people with learning disabilities, their families, carers, and care professionals for over 30 years.

Lena Davis, who runs the centre, said: "We always have so much fun each year. We have so many people come here to sing and dance with us.

"I'm so happy I get the chance to with such wonderful people. Everyone who comes here has purpose. They all spend their time doing things for other people."

One user and ambassador for the centre Danny Brown said: "We had a nice time today. Everyone was singing, and there was a good atmosphere."

Patron of Caring & Sharing, leader of the House of Commons and South Northamptonshire MP Andrea Leadsom said: "I had a wonderful time. They're all a lovely group and the staff have made such a home from home for them. It's like a family, and they make you feel so welcome."

For more information on the Caring & Sharing Trust, visit their website.

'High risk sex offender' jailed for indecently exposing himself to two children in Northampton

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A 60-year-old man has been jailed after pleading guilty to indecently exposing himself to two children in Northampton.

Stephen Watts, 60, of no fixed address, was sentenced to 10 months imprisonment at Northampton Crown Court.

The court heard that Watts exposed himself while sat in a parked car in the Lumbertubs area of the town on September 20 this year.

Watts told the court that what he had done was “sick” and he was full of remorse for his actions.

However, the sentencing judge said this would have carried more weight had he not been convicted for two similar offences within the previous 12 months.

Watts, the court heard, had a string of convictions, mostly against children, dating back to 1989, including indecent assault, gross indecency and indecent exposure.

Upon release, Watts will be subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order, and will be managed closely by Northamptonshire Police’s MOSOVO team, which monitors sex offenders in the community.

PC James McGill, who is based in the MOSOVO team, said: “Watts is a very high risk sex offender whose brazen actions have had a devastating and long-term effect on his victims.

“We are happy that he has now been locked up and the public can be reassured that, under the terms of the Sexual Harm Prevention Order, he will be closely monitored by police and partner agencies on release.”

Another major gong for popular pub-restaurant operator Oakman Inns

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Just over two weeks after Oakman Inns was awarded the prestigious Princess Royal Training Award, their Human Resource programme received further recognition at the National Innovation in Training Awards (NITAs) at the Café de Paris in London.

The NITAs celebrate those who have demonstrated training excellence and innovation in the licensed retail sector.

Oakman Inns, which was started by entrepeneur Peter Borg-Neal in Tring, Herts, now has 20 contemporary Inns with letting rooms and ‘all-day’ pubs across Beds, Bucks, Herts, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire and beyond.

And it is fast establishing itself as a leading operator in the industry having won the award for The Best Casual Dining Training Programme after passing a rigorous first stage entry process, followed by a final judging assessment by the British Innkeepers Institute (BII). The assessment included a demanding process of presentations and interviews in front of a panel of industry experts last month.

Oakman Inns’ CEO, Mr Borg-Neal, said: “I am delighted for this recognition of the work Oakman has undertaken under the guidance and inspiration of our HR Director, Jill Scatchard and Learning and Development Manager, Laura Douglas. We have already felt the impact on staffing of the Brexit decision and the fall in the value of sterling, so we are all having to work much harder and very quickly to enthuse, recruit and train the people we need for tomorrow.”

Oakman Inns, which owns and operates 20 distinctive pubs, restaurants and inns, has developed its own bespoke Online Craft Academy to support their growing teams with knowledge and experience. Reflecting the ethos and personality of the company, Oakmanology was designed from scratch by CPL Online to mirror the company’s existing HR programme and to support each Oakman employee’s progression in their chosen career pathway. Learning activities are as visual as possible and after a compulsory ‘induction’ stage, all the craft modules are available 24/7 to every individual regardless of their job role or personal career journey.

This inclusive, flexible approach means that everyone, whatever their role or passion, has access to a structured learning environment where they can find out about other roles and develop new, core skill-sets required for running a casual dining venue.

Jill Scatchard, Oakman Inns’ HR Director, said: “Oakman has won many awards for our staff engagement; for the wide range of benefits we provide; and, most importantly, the career path we develop for our employees. Using the Oakmanology programme, the progress of each individual can be tracked in real time which is linked to an achievement-based incremental pay programme. We have seen more team members experiencing real personal growth and expressing a desire to progress within the company and make a career in hospitality.”

BII CEO, Mike Clist, commented: “The NITAs are a celebration of the most successful individuals and businesses in the licensed retail market today. Our finalists have shown that they value, support and champion their people by continuing to invest in and develop their training programmes. It’s vital that we recognise, reward and share their successes so that we can encourage further innovation in our fantastic industry for years to come. The use of new technology and the holistic approach to the way they design their training programmes, has benefitted their businesses from the ground up and directly impacted on financial performances, growth and staff retention - we congratulate them all.”

The Oakman Collection comprises:

Berkshire:

Walter Arms, Sindlesham

Bedfordshire:

White Hart, Ampthill

Buckinghamshire:

Beech House, Beaconsfield

Dog & Badger, Medmenham

The Akeman Inn, Kingswood

Betsey Wynne, Swanbourne

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Kings Arms, Berkhamsted

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The Crown & Thistle, Abingdon

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The Globe, Warwick

Four Alls, Welford on Avon

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Beech House, Solihull

OPENING FIRST HALF 2018:

Beech House, Amersham

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Royal Foresters, Ascot

Do you know this man? He’s wanted over a Wellingborough fuel theft

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Police have released a CCTV image of a man they want to trace over a fuel theft in Wellingborough.

The offender drove on to the forecourt of the Shell Garage in Gold Street and dispensed fuel into a white Hyundai i30 – bearing cloned number plates – and left without making payment.

The incident happened on Wednesday, September 20, at about 3.45pm. Police have just released the image today (Tuesday, November 28).

The man pictured or anyone who recognises him should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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