Thursday 30 September 2010

Police launch month long tyre safety campaign

Cumbria Police are being joined by Eddie Stobart to launch a month long campaign urging drivers to check their tyres are safe and legal.

Sadly each year, dozens of people are killed and hundreds are seriously injured across the UK as a result of collisions caused by illegal, defective or under-inflated tyres. Just last year Cumbria saw the tragic death of two teenagers in a crash on the A69 near Carlisle. Collision Investigators found that the car they were in had lost grip of the road due to two worn rear tyres which slid on standing water causing them to lose control and move into the path of an HGV.

In order to help prevent this kind of tragedy in the future Cumbria Constabulary will be promoting the simple steps motorists can take to keep themselves and others safe on the roads throughout October. Officers will also be on the look out for motorists driving on illegal or dangerous tyres as they hold planned enforcement operations across the county.

PC Shaun McKeown, a Forensic Vehicle Examiner with Cumbria Constabulary’s Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Serious collisions as a result of worn, dangerous or illegal tyres are devastating for the families involved and we have launched a month long campaign to urge drivers to do all they can to prevent them. We will be out and about conducting enforcement operations around Cumbria and educating drivers about the risks. Motorists found to be driving on illegal tyres face a maximum penalty of three penalty points per tyre and a fine of up to £2,500 per tyre.

“It’s such an easy thing to do a visible check on your tyres as a matter of routine, maybe when you’re washing the car on a Sunday morning. For example, you can use the TyreSafe 20p test to check the tread depth. If you’re not confident in checking them yourself or have any concerns, most garages will inspect the tyres for free.”

This year Eddie Stobart has thrown its weight behind the campaign by launching a new special edition branded white truck (pictured in attached) encouraging all drivers to check their tyres. The truck will travel around the county spreading the Tyresafe message to help more Cumbrian motorists stay safe.

Stobart Group chief operating officer William Stobart said: “We are delighted to be able to lend our support to the TyreSafe campaign. Stobart Group takes road safety very seriously and it’s great that we can help get the message across to motorists using this unique branded trailer. Considering the miles that we cover each day, I’m sure it will get noticed by many people across Cumbria and throughout the UK.”

PC McKeown added: “The simple fact is that it is not an excuse to say you hadn’t realised your tyres were unsafe – as a responsible road user you need to find out before it’s too late and it’s actually very quick and easy to do.

“We have to deal with the horrific aftermath of collisions on a daily basis and defective or unsafe tyres can often be a contributing factor. We hope that this campaign will get people to stop and think about their vehicles, provide them with the information they need to check their own tyres and hopefully, when they go home they’ll take the time to examine their tyres which may save lives in the future.

“As the nights get darker and the weather wetter, I can guarantee there will be many more drivers who will lose control as a result of driving around on worn or damaged tyres – don’t let you or your loved one be one of them – check your tyres now.”

Top Tips for checking your tyres:
• Check your tyre pressure at least once a month.
• Tyre pressure should be checked against the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended level. This can be found in the vehicle handbook and on a plate which is often located inside the fuel filler flap or on the driver’s door sill.
• Check the pressure when tyres are cold (i.e. when you have travelled less than two miles).
• If you are carrying a full load of passengers or luggage or will be towing a trailer or caravan, tyre pressures should be increased in line with the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. Details can be found in the handbook.
• Ensure a reliable and accurate pressure gauge is used.
• Check the pressure in all four tyres not forgetting to check the spare tyre as well.
• While checking pressures, give the rest of the tyre a visual inspection. Remove any stones and other objects embedded in the tread. Look out for any bulges, lumps or cuts.
• If you are unsure on any aspect of tyre pressure or tyre condition take your vehicle to an approved fitting centre and speak to the experts.

Cumbria police are working in connection with ‘Tyresafe’ a non–profit commercial organisation to raise as much awareness for the campaign as possible.

The Cumbria Constabulary website (www.cumbria.police.uk) has been updated with information, videos and links to ‘Tyresafe’ so that people can learn how to spot an illegal or dangerous tyre themselves. Visitors to the site can learn how to check their tyres using a twenty pence piece ‘a life saver in your pocket’– a task that takes only seconds.

Thought for the Week

“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.”

Leo F Buscaglia (American academic, tireless advocate of the power of love, 1924-1998) http://www.buscaglia.com/default.htm

Sugarfoot album launch

Sugarfoot are holding an official album launch party for their CD, 'With the Sun in Our Eyes'.

The album launch takes place at The Nines, Thursday October 14th, and the night will be in support of Cancer Research UK. Doors will open at 7.30pm, and the music will get under way from 8.30pm.

Tickets are £5 - available now from R&T Music in Dalkeith Street, Barrow or from band members.

MIND Charity Awareness Night at The Bar Conti This Saturday

This weekend a year ago the Victoria Park Hotel hosted the D'You mind charity event. Devised and organised by a collective of the town's promoters and musicians, it was to be one of the biggest and best attended events of the year, with a wide ranging music policy and friendly atmosphere the night drew in an eclectic crowd and raised over £2000 for the local branch of MIND, the national mental health charity.

MIND in Furness provide support services and activities to those suffering from all sorts of mental health issues. They work to improve the quality of life for people suffering from, or with the potential to suffer from, mental distress while increasing awareness of these issues through education and a strong, positive presence in the local community. A truly worthwhile and hard working organisation.

This year, due to limitations at the Vic Park, the whole event has moved down to Bar Continental for the day, but still promises the same mix of live music and DJ's, with something to suit every musical taste.

The day begins with some laid back, lo-fi acoustic performances from:
ATLAS
OLIVIA LUMB
SOOTYERN.

Headline Acts:
DONALD D
RED VENOM

These great acts are joined by the finest of the Conti's 'We Love Saturdays' residents:
HOMEGROWN DJ's
KID CAGOULE & PETER K (Movement/Goodfoot)
LOUIS WALL & DANE SHEILDS (Shock & Roll)

And for one night only, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, roll up roll up...it's CURWENS BARROVIAN DISCO !!

Notorious Mooncats frontman rounds off proceedings in fine style. From Roughneck to techno, rock to trumpton, expect the unexpected!!

There is also live graffiti going on in the garden, and lots of chances to learn more about the important work MIND carry out in the community and opportunities to donate if you wish.

It all takes place at Bar Continental, this Saturday October 2nd from 5pm. Entry is free.

Monday 27 September 2010

FREE Street Soccer at Hindpool Park

FREE Street Soccer at Hindpool Park – Inspiring Communities

Starting Wednesday 29 September 2010

The sessions will run every Wednesday 6:30-8pm for 9-12 year olds and every Thursday 6:30-8pm for 13-16 year olds.

It's fun and it's free! No kit needed, just turn up and play!

Contact Craig at Barrow AFC Community Initiative on 07816163346 for more details.

The Fire Fighters Charity Carwash

Blue Watch - 2nd October 2010 and Green Watch - 3rd October 2010

at Barrow Fire Station

Vehicles washed for a donation to 'The Fire Fighters Charity'
(25% of total raised donated to the Special Care Baby Unit at FGH).

Free security bike marking on both days.

Free Tea and Coffee whilst you wait.

Charity Car Boot Sale

The Mayor of Barrow, Councillor Rory McClure, is holding a Charity Car Boot Sale on Sunday, 10th October commencing at 7.30am on Market Street Car Park.

The cost per car is £5, which is payable on the day and spaces will be allocated on a first come first served basis. All booking fees are in aid of the Mayor's Charities.

If the weather is inclement, the boot sale will be postponed until the following Sunday.

Thursday 23 September 2010

Thought for the Week

"Happiness... it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort."  Vincent Van Gogh

Wednesday 22 September 2010

Urban Retreat - URBAN NATURE WALK

Urban Retreat - URBAN NATURE WALK – 2PM - FREE - SUNDAY 3 OCTOBER

Martin Norris, Warden at South Walney Nature Reserve with lead a walk around.

The Old Paper Mill site (now a wasteland) and Cavendish Dock, with Artist Sophie Mellor (Urban Wanderer), looking at the effect, both positive and negative, that industry has had on the local wildlife. Meet at 2pm outside Morrisons Main Entrance, The Strand, Barrow-in-Furness. Weather dependent.

Places limited: BOOKING ESSENTIAL: Details will be posted at http://www.artgene.co.uk/ 

Email: info@closeandremote.net to register your interest.

Urban Retreat - SURVIVAL BAG WORKSHOP

12 NOON TO 3PM - FREE on SATURDAY 2 OCTOBER 2010

‘Survival bag’ workshop with Artist Clare Thornton What would you carry in your survival kit bag? Torch, pen-knife, binoculars, waterproof bag, matches, string, water bottle, mobile phone, pencil/notebook...?

Join artist (and urban adventurer) Clare Thornton to make and customize your own draw-string kit bag. All materials provided. Bring a key item you think should be carried in a well equipped survival kit. Perhaps you've already got a special kit bag you'd like to show us? Create a survival kit bag especially for Barrow-in-Furness and its environment. No sewing skills needed!

Free, places are limited. Booking for this event will open on 3 September 2010. Details of how to book will be posted on the website http://www.artgene.co.uk/

Email Close and Remote to register your interest - info@closeandremote.net

Urban Retreat - DESIGN CAFÉ SALON NIGHT

Urban Retreat - DESIGN CAFÉ SALON NIGHT 7PM – LATE – FREE

FRIDAY 1 OCTOBER 2010
(FROM AN ORIGINAL IDEA BY LANTERNHOUSE)

Artists, musicians and others bring along your work to show in a truly democratic evening of delights. Ring Art Gene to book a slot, or secure a place to show.

More details posted on the website www.artgene.co.uk

Tuesday 21 September 2010

Barrow Borough Council is now on Facebook!

Barrow Council will be using Facebook to keep people informed about what's going on at the Council and around the Borough. If you're a Facebook user then follow the link below and 'like' our page now to keep in touch!

CSV Make a Difference Day – 30 October 2010

On Saturday 30 October make sure you take part in CSV Make a Difference Day, the UK’s biggest day of volunteering!

Every year tens of thousands of people across the country take part through anything from creating community gardens to helping out isolated neighbours with their shopping, teaching financial literacy or renovating community centres.

Free resources include a Handbook packed with ideas and advice and an Action Pack containing t-shirts, posters, certificates (and free chocolate!) to help publicise your activity and thank volunteers.

This year the campaign is encouraging more families to volunteer together for the day, and a range of brilliant family friendly volunteering How-to Guides is available for inspiration.

Events for the campaign can take place between 23 October and 7 November. Anybody who wants to get involved can find an event on the campaign website, get in touch and go along on the day!

To request any of the free materials, email difference@csv.org.uk or call the team on Freephone 0800 284 533. To find out more about this year’s campaign, visit www.csv.org.uk/difference

Barrow in Furness Civic and Local History Society

Promoting local history and cultural heritage of the area.

Meetings are on the last Tuesday of the month and are held at Trinity Church Abbey Road, Barrow. Start 7:30pm. Members £2 - Visitors £2.50

28th September Speaker: David Fellows
Subject: A Cumbrian Colony in the South Pacific

29th October Speaker: Dennis Laird
Subject: North Scale

30th November Speaker: Jack Layfield
Subject: Conishead and the Surrounding Area

Contact Alice Leach - 01229 464416 - www.barrowhistorysociety.org.uk

Thursday 16 September 2010

FREE Electric Blanket Safety Testing

Free electric blanket safety tests are being offered to the Furness Community. Cumbria Trading Standards will carry out checks at Age UK, in Abbey Road, Barrow on September 22nd.

Sessions will take place between 9am and 5pm. Checks are by pre-booked appointments only.

Replacement electric blankets are available at the session should submitted blankets fail to work.

West Central Residents Coffee Morning

21st September 2010 at the Christian Fellowship Church Hall, Allison St, Barrow, 10.00 am - 12 noon.

- Trading Standards will be giving advice on door stop crime, rogue traders and bogus callers.
- Barrow and District Credit Union– easy to save and cheap to borrow.

In attendance:
Age Concern
Barrow Borough Council - Household waste recycling
Central and Hindpool Neighbourhood Wardens
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service

Come along and have a brew and a chat with representatives of your community.

If you would like more information please contact Susannah Pearson on Tel: 01229 836367.

The West Central residents group covers the area bounded by Rawlinson St, Salthouse Rd, The Strand and Greengate St.

Urban Retreat - Street Training

Street Training - 26th September 2010. Working with the physical and social territory, Lottie Child will lead a Street Training session looking at being joyful in public space which includes singing, parkour, climbing, chalking 2pm - 4pm. Street Training gives a name to people's own ways to connect with place playfully, subversively, sensually through intervention, observation and testing boundaries in public.

Lower age limit 6 years, no upper age limit!

Meet at 2pm at Art Gene, Nan Tait Centre, Abbey Road (corner of Bath Street and Abbey Road), Barrow-in-Furness, LA14 5TY.

Free, but places are limited so booking is essential. To book go to http://drawingwalk.eventbrite.com/or phone Art Gene: 01229 825085

Part of the Urban Retreat for more information http://www.closeandremote.net/

Wednesday 15 September 2010

Credit Union for Barrow ... what a great idea!




Why not go along to the first public meeting about setting up a Barrow and District Credit Union.

Tuesday 5 October 2010 - 8pm at the Forum, Duke St.

For more information contact Gordon Henry on 01900 607 532 or email gordon.henry@harvesthousing.org.uk.

click on the image left to enlarge

Urban Retreat - Wasteland Drawing Walk

Saturday, 25th September 2010.

Outdoor drawing workshop 2pm to 4pm with Laura Oldfield Ford.

The workshop will be a walk around the town examining the impact of the Barrow Blitz, the steel and shipping industries and urban regeneration schemes. Through a process of walking and drawing the hidden narratives of the area will be uncovered. Participants will use pens, pencils and chalk to form subjective maps of the town. Bring drawing materials and paper.

Meet at 2pm at Art Gene, Nan Tait Centre, Abbey Road (corner of Bath Street and Abbey Road), Barrow-in-Furness, LA14 5TY.

Free, but places are limited so booking is essential. To book go to http://drawingwalk.eventbrite.com/ or phone Art Gene: 01229 825085.

Part of the Urban Retreat for more information http://www.closeandremote.net/

Urban Retreat Lending Library

Browse the especially collated Urban Retreat Lending Library at Barrow Library, Ramsden Square, Barrow-in-Furness. A range of books both from the library collection and donated by the Urban Retreat artists and patrons, are available to read throughout the project. Each book will contain an especially designed book plate by Karen Di Franco.

Barrow Library opening times: Monday 0930 – 1900, Tuesday 0930 – 1700, Wednesday 0930 - 1900 , Thursday 0930 – 1200, Friday 0930 - 1700 , Saturday 1000 – 1600, Sunday 1200 - 1600

Tuesday 14 September 2010

Urban Retreat - Urban Wanderer

Sophie Mellor will spend two weeks as an urban wanderer relying on the kindness of strangers and the bounty of the land to house and feed her. Look out for her on the streets, green spaces, seashore and wastelands of Barrow. Stop and have a chat; join her for a cup of tea; making a fishing basket; gathering samphire; whittling a spoon; window shopping; cockle picking; lorry spotting; toad watching. Offer her a meal, a place to sleep, a story.

Part of the Urban Retreat for more information http://www.closeandremote.net/

Monday 13th September to Sunday 26th September 2010. Art Gene (01229) 825085

Monday 13 September 2010

URBAN RETREAT - In and around Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria

Monday 13th September to Sunday 3rd October 2010

In and around Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria

Part of the Urban Retreat for more information http://www.closeandremote.net/

Lottie Child, Emma Cocker, Karen Di Franco, Sophie Mellor, Laura Oldfield Ford, Clare Thornton.

Urban Retreat is a series of artists commissions, activities and events exploring the urban and rural landscape of Barrow in Furness

Free, but places are limited so booking is essential. To book go to http://drawingwalk.eventbrite.com/ or phone Art Gene: 01229 825085.

‘Celebrating Success’

22nd September 2010 – Waterside House – 4.00 – 8.15 p.m.

We would like to invite you to the above event on Wednesday 22nd September here at Waterside House. The event will showcase the diverse range of new start businesses that commenced trading over the last 15 years in the area, with the assistance of Furness Enterprise.

Mr. John Woodcock MP will officially open the event and launch the fourth edition of the ‘First in Furness’ publication. This publication contains the results of the bi-annual research on the survival rate of new start businesses assisted by Furness Enterprise.

Over 25 small businesses will be exhibiting their products and this is an ideal opportunity to network and speak to some of our local ‘entrepreneurs.’ Business Advisers will be available to answer any questions you may have.

Two workshops have been arranged to inspire ‘potential’ entrepreneurs to start up in business. Tom Edge is well known in the area and will present a ‘How to set up and run your own successful business’ whilst Geoff Ramm will provide start up businesses with cost effective ways to market and get their businesses off the ground.

If you are considering starting up in business or if you are already in business and would like to speak to like minded individuals, this event is not to be missed.

To reserve you place please contact Becky Smith on 01229 820611 or e-mail rsmith@furnessenterprise.co.uk. A pie and peas supper will be served at 6.15 pm.

You are invited to Safer, Stronger, Better - 4

You are invited to Safer, Stronger, Better 4

Ever wondered about how the Police police our night time economy?

Why not come along to our event on 28th September to find out? 9.30-12.15pm at the Forum, Duke Street, meet on the Gallery at the top of the stairs for coffee and biscuits at 9.30am. The first presentation will start at 10am in The Studio.

Coffee break just after 11am followed by a short DVD about Barrow's homeless community, brought to us by Barrow Borough Council’s Housing Department. Further presentation to be confirmed. Ring Rebecca Rawlings on 01229 876475 to book a place.

Barrow Area Community Liaison Forum

Cumbria Police Authority - Barrow Area Community Liaison Forum

Thursday, 30 September 2010 - 7.00 pm

Coronation Hall, County Square, Ulverston

Barrow Borough Sports Council Annual Sports Awards 2010

Barrow Borough Sports Council are pleased to announce their forthcoming Annual Sports Awards to be held on Friday 19th November 2010 at Barrow Town Hall.

However, before the event, we will require nominations for successful clubs, teams, groups and individuals over the past year. There are 6 different categories within the Awards, and they are:

• Service to Sport - This award will be presented to individuals who have contributed long service to sport. These individuals may not necessary be participants, but have given their time to such roles as secretary, treasurer, committee member, groundsperson, etc.

• Junior Team - This award will be presented to a successful under 17 team.

• Open Age Team - This award will be presented to a successful over 16 team. This could be a whole club that may include all ages.

• Junior Sportsperson - This award will be presented to any sportsperson under the age of 17.

• Adult Sportsperson - This award will be presented to any sportsperson over the age of 16.

• Young Sports Volunteer - This award will be presented to any young person under the age of 20, who has volunteered within sport over the past year.

If an individual is being nominated, they need to live within Barrow Borough, and if a team, club, group or organisation is being nominated, they need to be located within the Borough.

Nomination forms need to be submitted no later than noon on Friday 1st October 2010. You can also find the Barrow Borough Sports Council nomination form on our website www.barrowsportscouncil.org.uk where you can submit on line. For further information please contact Chris Athersmith on 01229 845927 or cathersmith@barrowbc.gov.uk

Friday 10 September 2010

FREE - Boat trip to Piel Island

FREE - Boat trip to Piel Island

As one of the Design Café events you are cordially invited to take a boat trip to Piel Island led by visiting artists to Barrow

When: This Saturday!!! the 11th September 2010.

So, book now as places are limited by going to 
or phone Maddi Nicholson: 07769915631 / Steve Harris: 07946126412

Trip 1Meet Art Gene Gallery 11.00am- Art Gene staff drive you to Ramsden Dock
( boat leaves 11.45 prompt.)
trip 1 & 1/2 hours.
Arrive Piel approx. 12.15pm have refreshments and ferry back late afternoon.
Art Gene staff drive you back to town

Trip 2
Meet Art Gene Gallery 12.30 pm - Art Gene staff drive you to Ramsden Dock
( boat leaves 1.15pm prompt) trip 1 & 1/2 hours.
Arrive Piel approx. 2.45pm have refreshments and ferry back late afternoon.
Art Gene staff drive you back to town
Art Gene Limited. Registered Charity 1135536http://www.artgene.co.uk

Cumbria Police prepare for potential budget cuts

Police in Cumbria are conducting a series of reviews and scoping exercises to ensure they are prepared for any potential budget cuts in the future.

The Government’s emergency budget statement on 22 June indicated that average cuts in public sector spending would be 25 per cent over the next four years.

To ensure the Constabulary is prepared in advance, senior members of staff from the Constabulary’s business and support services (such as personnel, finance, IT, estates and admin support) are drafting reports that will identify how they could save 25 per cent, and what impact this would have on the services they provide.

In a bid to protect frontline services, the business and support teams will also undertake a second scoping exercise that will identify how they could save 40 per cent of their budget. This will help senior police officers identify how they can make overall savings of 25 per cent while minimising the impact on frontline policing.

Chief Constable Craig Mackey said: “These are without doubt challenging times for the Constabulary. The proposed budget cuts that Directors are being asked to make are about supporting the frontline of policing within Cumbria. However, the scale of cuts that are currently being discussed nationally is so significant that “protecting the frontline” cannot mean “maintaining the front line at current levels”. In this context, protection is more about minimising the impacts and ensuring all other avenues for efficiencies are explored, before reaching the point where frontline resources are reduced.

“We will not know for certain what our budget will be until the end of the year. On 20 October the Comprehensive Spending Review will be announced, which will confirm the overall budget for the Home Office and then in early December they will confirm to the Constabulary its income grant for the financial year starting 1 April 2011.

“Police officers and staff have always excelled at planning for the future, and by reviewing our current structure and investigating how we can make savings, we will be in the best possible position to ensure that any budget cuts have minimal impact to policing in Cumbria.”

JOBS FAIR - 2010 - Waterside House, Barrow

JOBS FAIR - 2010 - Waterside House, Barrow

Agilysis
Liberata
Tesco
Argos
Duke of Edinburgh
Reliance
Debenhams
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service
Abbey House and many more ...

Are actively recruiting for vacancies in the Furness area - at WATERSIDE HOUSE ON Friday 17th September 2010 BETWEEN 10.00AM & 3PM.

Thursday 9 September 2010

FULL OF NOISES FESTIVAL

Hildur Gudnadottir – Saturday 25 September 2010. Residency and live performance at Lanternhouse (http://www.lanternhouse.org/), Ulverston from the acclaimed Icelandic cellist/composer. Visit http://www.hildurness.com/

For more info and tickets visit http://www.fonfestival.org/

Thought for the Week

"Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." Plato

Wednesday 8 September 2010

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITY - Thwaite Street and Surrounding Area Residents Group Secretary

Thwaite Street and Surrounding Area Residents Group – Secretary

Thwaite Street and Surrounding Area residents group is looking for a secretary to undertake administration support to the group which would include taking minutes at general meetings and committee meetings, and giving support with community events.

The group is scheduled to meet on Monday 13th September 2010, 6.pm at Ramsden Infant School residents who reside in this area are welcome to attend.

For further information contact Carol Last, Community Involvement Worker (Barrow), Cumbria County Council, Tel: 01229 407574

Furness College Advice Sessions

Find out about the extensive range of Part-time Courses, University Degrees, Foundation Degrees and University Pathways, Apprenticeships, Bespoke Training for Businesses, Skills for life and Full-time Courses, at Channelside Barrow-in-Furness.

Thursday 9th September 5pm – 6pm
Saturday 11th September 10am – 12 Noon

For further information Tel: 01229 825017

Setting Up A Local Credit Union in Barrow and District – We Need You To Help

What are Credit Unions?
Credit Unions are community savings and loans cooperatives. They offer members the chance to save regularly and to access great value, low interest loans linked to the value of their savings.

Who are Credit Unions For?
Credit unions are open to everyone who lives or work in the areas that they serve regardless of your level of personal household income. If you want to benefit from saving on a regular basis and being able to borrow money at a low interest rate then join your local credit union today.

What are the Community Benefits of Credit Unions?
Credit Unions are financial cooperatives owned and controlled by their members and are run by and for local people. Any financial surpluses from a credit union go towards developing the credit union and / or are returned to local members through a dividend. The only shareholders are therefore the local members who use its services. Credit unions are therefore local, ethical and of benefit to local residents and the wider local community that the money is retained within.

Credit unions offer an alternative to getting into financial difficulties from taking out high interest loans from legal doorstep lenders or illegal loan sharks.

We are now in the process of trying to identify, establish, work with and support a group of community volunteers in Barrow and District. We are currently seeking volunteers with any of the following skills and attributes:-
Accountancy and bookkeeping
Business Planning
Committee and group work skills
Funding Applications and Fundraising
Information and Communication Technology
Management
Marketing and Promotions
Personnel Issues
Policies and Procedures
Research and Survey Work
However any volunteer with commitment and enthusiasm is very welcome.

If you are interested in helping to set up a credit union in Barrow and District please get in touch for more information.

Gordon Henry, Cumbria Credit Unions Development Coordinator Tel: 01900) 607532 or 07515 061964 or email: gordon.henry@harvesthousing.org.uk

Heritage Open Days - Tour Barrow Town Hall

Barrow Town Hall will be opening its doors on Sunday, 12th September as part of the national celebration Heritage Open Days co-ordinated by English Heritage.

Town Hall Guides will take you on a tour of the magnificent civic reception rooms in this splendid Victorian Building designed by W H Lynn in modern gothic style, built of local red sandstone and opened in 1887. (NB there is no access to clock tower) There is no need to book in advance. Tours will commence at 1 pm, 2 pm and 3 pm on both days.

Barrow Indoor Market, Saturday, 11th September.
Markets are an important part of our cultural heritage. In 2010 we will be asking “How Green is your Market” with the antics of the Bread and Butter Theatre Company with show specially commissioned by Barrow Markets to celebrate market heritage on Saturday, 11th September from 11.00 am – 4.00 pm.

For more information Contact Barrow Tourist Information Centre on 01229 876505

Tuesday 7 September 2010

Police are investigating a fight in Barrow town centre on Sat 4 Sept

Police are investigating after a fight occurred in Barrow town centre on the afternoon of Saturday 4 September.

At around 4.15pm outside B&M bargains a fight occurred involving two local women aged 23 and 31. Both received serious but non-life threatening injuries and were taken to FGH for treatment.

The 23 year old woman has been arrested on suspicion of GBH and remains in hospital with a serious hand injury. The 31 year old woman received treatment for a serious arm injury and was later discharged. She was arrested on suspicion of affray and was placed on police bail until 24 September.

Two others, a 41 year old woman and a 38 year old man, were also arrested on suspicion of affray in connection with the incident. They have been interviewed and also bailed until 24 September pending further enquiries.

DC Sarah McArthur said: “The fight broke out in broad daylight in the middle of a street that was busy with shoppers and as a result of the incident, two women received serious injuries. Police responded immediately and the street was cordoned off while crime scene investigators examined the area.

“We know that the incident attracted a crowd and would appeal to anyone who saw what happened outside B&M Bargains that afternoon to contact Barrow CID. A full investigation is underway and we need to speak to members of the public to establish the exact circumstances.

Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident is urged to contact me, or any officer in Barrow CID on 0845 33 00 247 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Friday 3 September 2010

Thought for the week

"Kind words do not cost much. Yet they accomplish much."  Blaise Pascal

Launch of Design Cafe

An exciting opportunity to work alongside Artists, Architects and other regeneration professionals to help reshape the future of Barrow Borough.

Design Café is Art Gene’s open link to the communities of Barrow Borough inspiring engagement with Regeneration.

Design Café will establish an aspirational group of local people, who are inspired and empowered to take a proactive role as champions for sustainable contemporary design-led regeneration within their peer groups and communities. The group will meet at Art Gene, creating a temporary café sometimes in the recently refurbished Art Gene Gallery amidst artworks, at other times in the studios of Art Gene’s (inter)national residency artists or at other interesting sites where design meets regeneration.

Art Gene aims to create an environment where the Design Café group feel empowered and supported to question, comment and exchange ideas about the regeneration of the social, natural and built environment and definitions of high quality design.

Presentations and Talks
Art Gene and its team of associate (inter)national artists and architects and other leaders in their field will present a varied programme of visual presentations, tailored to evolving investigations, discussions and debates.

Design Cafe Research Trips
Art Gene will also lead ‘Go explore’ research trips around the locality and beyond. The group will be encouraged to use a new Design Café discussion forum on the Art Gene website as a networking space which will help form a collective sense of purpose and identity, facilitate group and ultimately external communication and promotion.

Launch Event to be held at Nan Tait Centre Abbey Road Barrow 8th SEPTEMBER – 6PM - DESIGN CAFÉ LAUNCH & EXHIBITION OPENING ‘YOUR FUTURE NEEDS YOU’ - FREE

EXHIBITION CONTINUES: 9 SEPTEMBER - 17 DECEMBER 2010 12-5 PM WEEKDAYS

LATE NIGHT WEDNESDAYS ‘TIL 6 PM - CLOSED WEEKENDS. - FREE ADMISSION

Artists Architects and Designers, engaged in Art Gene’s Barrow by Design and wider programme, take a fresh look at regeneration in Barrow and further afield.

Please ensure you check the website http://www.artgene.co.uk/ for further events and up to date information, & additional special events.

Could you be Independent Custody Visitors

Cumbria Police Authority is looking for Volunteers to join its Independent Custody Visiting Scheme

Cumbria Police Authority is looking to recruit independent members of the community living within the Barrow, Copeland and Allerdale areas of County. Independent Custody Visitors, visit Custody Suites unannounced, always working in pairs, to check on the welfare of the people in police custody. This scheme aims to improve public confidence in the police and help the Police Authority to gain a clear insight, into the running of custody facilities within the county.

Independent Custody Visitors must be impartial at all times. They don’t take sides, but look, listen and report on what they find. Independent Custody Visitors are volunteers who receive no payment, though their expenses will be met.

Anyone who is at least 18 years of age, and lives or works in Cumbria may apply. However, anyone in the police service, such as police officers, special constables, police staff and members of the Police Authority are ineligible.

Rob Huck, the Police Authority’s Lead Member for custody said “I would encourage anyone with an interest in policing or welfare matters to apply. This role provides an unique insight into the working of the police service”

The closing date for the applications is Friday 1st October 2010. Anyone requiring further information should contact:

 
Joanne Thornborrow
Cumbria Police Authority
Carleton Hall
Penrith CA10 2AU
Telephone 01768 217416
E-mail joanne.thornborrow@cumbria.police.uk
Website
www.cumbriapoliceauhtority.org.uk

Wednesday 1 September 2010

Free Theatre Tickets for under 26's.

The forum is pleased to be involved in the Arts Council scheme offering free theatre tickets to under 26's. The scheme will run until February 2011.

Events included under the scheme are:
People's Theatre Company 'How the Koala Learnt to Hug' - Thursday 2 September
Theatre Productions 'The Naked Truth' - Wednesday 8 September
Barrow Amateurs Operatic & Dramatic Society '100 Not Out' - Wednesday 22 September
Femme Fatale 'Scrubbers' - Friday 1 October
Red Ladder Theatre Company 'Ugly' - Thursday 14 October
Walney Junior Amateur Operatic Society 'Oliver' - Wednesday 20 October
The Ashton Group Theatre - Diffusion - Wednesday 27 October
Seabright Productions 'Hit Me! The Life and Rhymes of Ian Dury' - Tuesday 2 November
Scamp Theatre 'Stickman' - Friday 12 November
Walney Musical Theatre Company 'Jesus Christ Superstar' - Wednesday 17 November
Aladdin and his Wonderful Lamp - Friday 17 December
We're Going on a Bear Hunt - Thursday 3 February
The Ashton Group 3 for 2 youth theatre deal... - Monday 21 February

Barrow-in-Furness Borough Council's Anti-Dog Fouling Campaign

Your chance to Name and Shame the dog foulers.

There is still a significant minority of dog owners in the Borough who do not pick up the mess after their dogs have fouled outside. Barrow Borough Council is asking its residents to let them know who these dog owners are.

A new leaflet gives residents the opportunity to provide specific information to help Council Officers catch and fine these irresponsible dog owners.

All information received will be dealt with in total confidence.

Visit here to find out more

EXHIBITION at the Forum – REVEALED by Andrew Sweeting

September and October 2010 - Admission Free

Andrew's art was inspired by numerous trips to his local DIY stores.

He often used to look at the relief patterns on anaglypta wallpaper and wonder what they would look like if they were painted in a way that revealed and enhanced the patterns.

He decided that he wanted his pictures to have some impact, so he pasted the wallpaper on large pieces of hardboard and then used acrylic paints as his colouring medium.

Exhibitions at the Dock Museum

7th September – 10th October - Annual Autumn Showcase of the Barrow Society of Artists

13th October – 9th January 2011 - ‘Into the Wild’ - Heléne Burrow.
Heléne is exploring new techniques both in her studio and painting outdoors. ‘Wild Portraits’ will show some of those experiments with oil along with some previously unseen acrylic and pencil works.