Thought for the Week

“People are generally better persuaded by the reasons which they have themselves discovered than by those which have come in to the mind of others.” Blaise Pascal

EXHIBITORS SOUGHT FOR EXHIBITION SPACE IN THE MALL, BARROW

Barrow Borough Council has recently upgraded The Mall in Barrow town centre and as part of the works gates have been installed and five CCTV cameras (linked to the Market Hall) are now operational to ensure The Mall is secure during the day and in the evening.

The Council has installed a feature wall incorporating twelve exhibition boxes, there are six boxes sized approxinately 870mm x 710mm  and six 810mm x 525mm, the depth of the boxes is approximately 1 metre. Each exhibition box has white LED lighting with a clear polycarbonate front panel. The displays are changeable with access being provided to the rear of the false wall. Whilst the exhibition boxes are locked the Council cannot take any responsibility for any loss or damage of an exhibit.

These boxes are now available for local organisations and schools to exhibit displays of artwork etc. Because of the depth of the boxes the Council are looking at three dimensional displays rather than two dimensional posters or artwork.

It is proposed to change the exhibition each month and to date the space is booked up until the end of January. If you would like to book space please contact Ann Taylforth on 01229 876389 or email ataylforth@barrowbc.gov.uk

Next home game - Barrow AFC

Blue Square Conference at Holker Street;

Barrow v Newport,

Saturday 6 November 3pm kick off

Trading standards announce amnesty for counterfeit goods

Cumbria Trading Standards has announced a three month amnesty on counterfeit goods starting on Monday (1 Nov).

During the amnesty, which will run until 31 January 2011, anyone in possession of quantities of counterfeit goods of any type can sign them over to any trading standards office or library in Cumbria without fear of being prosecuted.

Counterfeit goods are illegal copies of well known branded products and can include designer clothes and shoes, electrical goods such as hair straighteners, DVDs and CDs, perfume, cigarettes and alcohol. Many of the counterfeit goods handed in will be de-branded and donated to charity or good causes where possible.

The amnesty will not apply to anyone already subject to formal investigation or proceedings.

The trade in counterfeit goods is believed to cost the UK over 4,000 job losses each year and it is estimated that this costs all industry sectors around £11billion every year. Such losses pose a serious threat to the stability of the UK economy at a time when we are all tightening our finances.

Trading standards officer Eamonn Quinn, who is leading this amnesty, said: "There is a darker side to counterfeiting - fake goods can be dangerous and there is evidence that counterfeiting can be linked to organised crime and drugs.

"In some cases individuals might be supplying counterfeit goods to their family, friends or work colleagues without realising the seriousness of the offences. We urge them to stop supplying immediately and use this opportunity to hand in any counterfeit goods without fear of reprisal."

The maximum penalty for offences under this legislation is an unlimited fine and up to 10 years in prison per offence.

A recent case at Preston Crown Court has resulted in a Proceeds of Crime payment of £105,000 and a two year suspended sentence being awarded against a counterfeiter working from home and selling on eBay. This is the biggest award Cumbria Trading Standards has received and clearly illustrates that monies gained from criminal activities like counterfeiting will be taken back.

Cumbria County Councillor Gary Strong, Cabinet member for trading standards, said: "I really hope that this amnesty will make counterfeiters think about the damage they’re doing to legitimate traders in the county and the harm they may be causing to consumers. If they want to stop and put this aspect of their lives behind them now is the time to do it.

"Once the amnesty is over we will continue to target markets, car boot sales and the internet to remove fake and potentially unsafe goods and prosecute anyone selling them. When we catch up with them - which we will - the court will know the opportunity to hand over the goods was ignored."

For further details on where and how to surrender counterfeit goods please contact 01229 404040 or trading.standards@cumbriacc.gov.uk

Give blood ...

Early diagnosis of lung cancer saves lives: Can you help us to find cancer?

In September 2010 the Department of Health announced that NHS Cumbria had been successful in a bid to the National Awareness and Early Diagnosis Initiative [NAEDI] for additional funding for work to improve lung cancer survival rates, which is one of our top priorities for addressing health inequalities.

The attached briefing sets out more details of what the Cumbria Lung Cancer Awareness and Early Diagnosis campaign will involve.

The campaign will target populations in four localities - Copeland, Allerdale, Barrow and Carlisle – where deprivation and deaths from lung cancer are greatest.

We aim to reach people aged over 50 registered with target GP practices in these areas, with health conditions which may make them more vulnerable to lung cancer, as well as giving general information on lung cancer symptoms to the wider communities.

We aim to increase awareness of lung cancer symptoms by working with a wider range of groups using trained Community Health Champions, health related third sector organisations, existing community networks, local employers, community health partnerships, local government services such as social care and libraries.

Can you help us plan this project and ensure that we are successful in changing understanding of lung cancer and people’s response to potential symptoms?

We are holding a series of launch sessions so that you can learn more about the reason for the project, and how you could contribute to its success.

The date for the sessions is:

Friday 26th November at Hindpool Community Centre, Barrow in Furness at 12.30pm.

To reserve a place at these sessions or for further information please telephone Susan Collins on 01900 324235 or email susan.collins@cumbriapct.nhs.uk

Credit Union meeting

click on the image to enlarge

Police target anti-social behaviour over Halloween and Bonfire night

Cumbria police are putting on extra patrols in the run up to Halloween and Bonfire night to make sure that everyone can enjoy the celebrations safely.

Traditionally, calls to police about youth anti-social behaviour can increase at this time of year as some young people can take the spirit of Halloween and bonfire night too far and end up causing trouble or intimidating vulnerable members of their neighbourhood.

In a bid to keep trick or treating trouble to a minimum and prevent anti-social behaviour, more police officers will be out on the streets to tackle problems before they start and provide a reassuring presence to local communities.

Police have also been handing out posters for those who do not want to participate in Halloween to display in their windows, urging trick or treaters to stay away.

Assistant Chief Constable Michelle Skeer said: “We know how much young people enjoy celebrating Halloween and we don’t want to spoil that, but we also know from previous years that calls, tricks or pranks that may be harmless fun to some people can cause real distress to others – which results in us receiving more calls for service.

“We are going to be supporting our local communities as much as possible and policing teams have been issuing free posters to people who don’t want to be disturbed over Halloween so I’d ask people to respect this and if you see a poster asking you to not to trick or treat there – please respect their privacy and stay away.

“If you would like to get a free poster, please contact your local police station or you can print one off directly from Cumbria Constabulary’s website, http://www.cumbria.police.uk/.

“Officers out on the beat will also be reminding young people that behaviour such as throwing eggs or flour can quickly cross the boundary from being anti-social behaviour to causing criminal damage.”

Police have also been visiting local retailers alongside Trading Standards Officers to provide advice on the laws of selling fireworks and to make sure they know to call the Police if anyone under 18 tries to buy them.

ACC Skeer continues: “We are working closely with local retailers and licensees who are actively helping us ensure fireworks and alcohol do not get into the hands of under 18’s.

“We are warning people that it is against the law to use fireworks between 11pm and 7am, throw fireworks on the road, or to be in possession of fireworks in a public place if you are under-18 years of age. If you break the law you can expect to receive an on the spot fine, be banned from a particular area for up to 48 hours or be arrested and be taken into police custody.

“Any young people who are suspected of being in possession of fireworks can expect to be searched, have their fireworks seized, and then be taken home by police so that we can inform their parents.”

In addition to providing extra police and PCSO patrols on the streets, police are working with partners to remove or extinguish unauthorised bonfires, complete arson audits to establish vulnerable areas and pay close attention to the sale of fireworks amongst local retailers.

The Operation runs from Friday 22 October to Monday 8 November 2010 and sees the different agencies provide a whole host of fun activities and initiatives to divert young people away from participating in anti-social behaviour. These are all displayed on the Constabulary’s dedicated website: www.wotson4u.com

Local residents who do not wish to receive trick or treaters at their home are urged to display a new police poster on their door or in their windows (see attached poster). These are available from local police stations or can be printed directly from Cumbria Constabulary’s website. A new video has also been posted on Cumbria Constabulary’s website to provide advice for young people who want to go trick or treating safely.

If you are impacted by anti-social behaviour or would like to find out more abut what police are doing in your area log on to www.cumbria.police.uk or call 0845 3300 247.

Halloween - Trick Or Treat Advice (Cumbria Police)

The Dark Nights (Cumbria Police - Crime Prevention)

Fireworks test for Barrow traders

Trading Standards Officers carried out an operation in Barrow last night (October 21) where they sent an underage volunteer to eight shops to buy fireworks.

The operation was a successful one with all eight of the shops refusing to serve the 15-year-old volunteer.

In the run up to Halloween and Bonfire Night, shops have been reminded by Cumbria Trading Standards that fireworks must be stored in a safe, fireproof place and that they might face action if they were sold to anyone under the age of 18.

Angela Jones, Trading Standards Service Manger at Cumbria Trading Standards, said: "I am very encouraged by the results achieved in last night’s operation, particularly as it is in the run up to bonfire night. This demonstrates that traders are taking their responsibilities in relation to selling fireworks seriously. However we will continue with these operations throughout the firework sales period.

"We work closely with partner agencies and with retailers to make sure they comply with age restricted sales legislation. These types of operations are a vital part of helping to ensure youngsters stay safe and that anti-social behavior is reduced."

Anyone with information about shops that may be selling age restricted products to young people can contact Trading Standards via Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.

Thought for the week

“The challenge of modernity is to live without illusions and without becoming disillusioned.” Antonio Gramsci

http://www.infed.org/thinkers/et-gram.htm

Crime falls again in Cumbria

The Home Office today issued its quarterly crime report revealing that overall crime has fallen once again in Cumbria, after police recorded 9 per cent less crimes between June 2009 and June 2010 compared to the previous financial year.

The report released today is produced by the Home Office and discusses the latest crime trends in England and Wales. The report is based on two sources of statistics, the British Crime Survey (BCS) and police recorded crime data.

It reveals that Cumbria Constabulary recorded some of the lowest numbers of crimes in England, with only the City of London police recording fewer incidents.

The findings of the British Crime Survey also show that Cumbrian communities have the highest levels of confidence in their police force for dealing with local concerns, with 64 per cent agreeing that police do a good or excellent job.

Cumbria ranks as the safest area in England and Wales for burglary and robbery, despite a slight increase in robberies around the county. Between June 2009 and June 2010, there were 15 per cent less burglaries and 54 offences of robbery across Cumbria – an increase of six per cent.

Chief Constable Craig Mackey said: “These figures show that yet again, crime has fallen in Cumbria which proves that our county really is one of the safest places in the UK.

“The consistent reduction in crime across our county reflects the commitment that each and every police officer and member of staff has in serving their communities in Cumbria.

“The Constabulary is dedicated to tackling issues at a very local level so that police officers can take positive action to address the problems that are most affecting people’s lives. It is encouraging to see that this hard work is paying off with 64 per cent of local residents agreeing that we are dealing with local concerns effectively and 54 per cent agreeing that we work well with partners to tackle issues that communities highlight as problems.

“In Cumbria, fewer people perceive anti-social behaviour to be a problem when compared to the national picture. Ten per cent of communities claim that anti-social behaviour is a problem in their area compared to the national average of 14 per cent. We know the negative effects that anti-social behaviour can have on our neighbourhoods so it will continue to be one of our main priorities so that we can reduce this figure even further.

“It is always disappointing to learn that specific types of crime are on the rise – especially violent incidents like robbery. Despite ranking as the top force in the country for the lowest number of robberies this year, incidents have increased by six per cent which means that 54 people have suffered the distress and turmoil of being a victim.

“We have also seen an increase in the number of sexual offences that are reported to us. This can be worrying, but also encouraging as one of the major hurdles that victims face is working up the courage to report incidents to police. We have worked hard over recent years to ensure we have the people and facilities available to support victims and investigate sexual offences and believe that the increase is partly due to the improved confidence victims now have in us, and the positive work that goes on in our dedicated Public Protection Units to identify victims and help them to bring offenders to justice.

“We will focus on these two areas of work over the coming year to ensure that we protect victims and pursue offenders so that we can continue to drive down crime in Cumbria.”

Barrow Island Community Connection

The next Safer, Stronger Community meeting is to be held on Thursday 21st October at 6:30pm at Dundalk Street Community Hall.

This is your chance to be updated by the Police and to have your say in what they are doing in our area. Now is even more important in light of the current funding situation for the police force and all services. Please come along let them know your feelings.

Cumbria Constabulary’s response Comprehensive Spending Review

Cumbria Constabulary is continuing to prepare for challenging budget cuts announced yesterday in the Government’s comprehensive spending review.

The Chancellor confirmed that policing will receive average cuts of 4 per cent every year for four years. Early indications are that the central government police funding will reduce by 20 per cent in real terms by 2014-15.

Based on this information the early indications are that the Constabulary will have to cut its budget by between £15million and £20million by 2014/15. However, it will be December before the Home Office announces Cumbria Constabulary’s grant settlement, which is the Constabulary’s main income stream. This will provide further clarity on the savings that will be required.

Chief Constable Craig Mackey said: “The comprehensive spending review has provided us with some guidance as to how much Cumbria Constabulary will need to save, but it is an incomplete jigsaw, and it will be December before we learn how much we will receive from the Government in our settlement grant. The Police Authority will then agree our final budget in February 2011.

“It is without doubt that Cumbria Constabulary will be a smaller organisation due to the savings we need to make, but we are firmly committed to trying to protect frontline policing. Unfortunately this cannot mean maintaining the front line at current levels. We will do everything we can to maintain officer numbers on the streets of Cumbria, but face difficult choices around keeping police stations open, maintaining our fleet and conducting back office functions.

“The Constabulary is well placed to meet the challenges that we face in the budget cuts. A significant amount of work is already underway to identify efficiencies, and this has been further supported by our recruitment freeze in all but exceptional circumstances.

“Given the cuts that we have already made, we expect to end the 2010/11 financial year with 70 fewer officers, giving a total of 1,200 officers and 130 fewer police staff, giving a total of 740.

Chair of Cumbria Police Authority, Ray Cole, added: “Yesterday’s announcement gave us the initial outline of what our budget will look like over the next four years. It will be early December before we have all the details required to finalise the budget.

“The Police Authority will play a crucial role in the coming months, overviewing the Constabulary budget to ensure that the people of Cumbria receive the most cost effective level of service within the reduced budget.

“The Police Authority is firmly committed to minimising the impacts on frontline policing and continuing to make Cumbria a safe place.”

Local events taking place in Cumbria to mark International Credit Union Day include:

Cumbria's credit unions celebrate International Credit Union Day 2010Members, staff and volunteers of Cumbria’s seven credit unions will join 186 million members of credit unions worldwide this Thursday (October 21) to International Credit Union Day.

The day is held to mark the difference that credit unions make to the lives of their members through offering the chance to save regularly and to borrow money at low rates of interest when they need to.

This year the theme of International Credit Union Day is 'Local. Trusted. Serving You.' Cumbria’s seven credit unions are based in local communities from Carlisle in the north to Walney in the south. They serve over 6,000 adult members and over 2,000 children and young people, who trust them with their savings of a combined value of almost £1.5m. The local credit unions have distributed loans to members with a combined value in excess of £4m.

Whitehaven, Egremont & District Credit Union will be holding open days at their offices in both Egremont and Whitehaven alongside face painting and a children’s colouring competition –drop in sessions at the De Lucy Centre, Market Place, Egremont from 10am –12.30pm, and at 24 James Street, Whitehaven from 10am –4pm. Everyone is welcome.

Carlisle and District Credit Union will be holding an open day at their premises at their office at 95 Lowther Street in Carlisle from 10am –2pm. Free refreshments of Bucks Fizz, chocolates and sweets will be available. Anyone joining the credit union on the day will get a free box of chocolates.

Hindpool Community Association, Barrow – Cumbria Credit Union Development Coordinator Gordon Henry will be attending Hindpool Annex, Bath Street in Barrow for a coffee morning from 10am 1t 12pm to inform local residents about plans to set up a Barrow and District Credit Union.

Cllr Oliver Pearson, Cumbria County Council's Cabinet Member with responsibility for communities, said: "In these uncertain financial times, there has never been a better time to join your local credit union. Regular saving now can help you access low interest rate loans if you need to in future. Credit unions bring benefits for you and other members throughout your local community as well as keeping money within the local economy."

Gordon Henry, Cumbria Credit Union Development Coordinator, said: "These events provide an opportunity for people to come along and find out more about their local community credit union. Credit unions are open to everyone to join within their local area. When you join a credit union you are a member not just a customer –it really is your credit union. As not-for-profit organisations, any surplus is invested in developing a wider range of services or in lower rates on loans and dividends on savings."

Anyone wanting further information on existing credit unions in Cumbria –Carlisle and District, Maryport and North Allerdale, Workington and District, Whitehaven Egremont District, Cleator Moor, Millom and Walney or interested in becoming involved in setting one up in Barrow and District, Eden or South Lakeland can contact Gordon Henry on (01900) 607 532 or e-mail gordon.henry@harvesthousing.org.uk or contact the credit unions directly as follows:-

Carlisle and District (01228) 594007; Maryport and North Allerdale (01900) 816111; Workington and District (01900) 63642; Whitehaven, Egremont and District (01946) 66755 or (01946) 828104; Cleator Moor and District (01946) 817508; Millom and District (01229) 775877 and Walney (01229) 470449.

Firework Safety Tips from Cumbria Fire Service

Your best bet is always to go to a properly organised display, but if you do decide to celebrate at home there are some easy tips to follow.

•To make sure you don't hurt yourself, wear gloves when playing with sparklers.

•It's a really good idea to have a bucket of water close-by to put sparklers in when they have finished - remember they are still really hot even when they have gone out.

•When your family buy fireworks, they need to always be British Standard marked fireworks in compliance with registered number: BS7 114.

•Fireworks should always be kept in a sealed metal box or biscuit tin, never put fireworks in your pockets.

•It is really important that the adult responsible for arranging and lighting the fireworks reads all the instructions.

•Never, ever throw a firework.

•Once a firework has been lit, don't go anywhere near it - make sure everyone watching is a safe distance away.

•If you have a bonfire it should be built far away from any hedges, buildings or fences, and there should be a garden hose ready in case of any emergencies.

•Keep all pets indoors.

•Oh and finally, this one is for mums, dads or anyone organising a display at home: fireworks and alcohol do not mix - it's a good idea to nominate an adult who isn't drinking at the party to be in charge of the fireworks.

•So celebrate safely, always follow the Firework Code and have a great Bonfire Night!

Lock up and stay safe as dark nights draw in

As the dark nights draw in, police in Cumbria are urging communities to lock up and stay safe this autumn.

As British Summertime ends next week and the clocks go back one hour, police are urging residents to help protect their homes from opportunist thieves. Officers across Cumbria will be out and about in their communities handing out crime prevention advice and distributing pocket sized tips to raise awareness of the importance of home security and the simple steps people should take to stay safe.

Neighbourhood watch coordinators will also be joining forces with police to distribute this information to equip all residents with the safety advice they need as we head into winter.

Assistant Chief Constable Michelle Skeer said: “At this time of year the dark nights draw in, so opportunist thieves can think there is less chance of being seen or caught.

“To ensure that crime in our county remains low, we are urging residents to be extra vigilant and report any suspicious looking people or vehicles to us immediately.

“Police officers around Cumbria will be raising awareness of crime prevention tips and home security advice but local people have a vital role to play in keeping crime down. By taking a few simple steps to prevent themselves and their homes from becoming easy targets for criminals, communities can protect themselves and their neighbours from becoming victims of crime.

“Officers will be holding Safer Stronger Community meetings where they will be discussing home and personal safety and will be giving local people the chance to ask for advice or for help on particular safety issues. By taking a few minutes to consider their security measures and adopt some simple routines, residents can secure their property and help us make life difficult for criminals.”

Cumbria Constabulary offers the following Top Tips for keeping your home safe:

• Don’t give thieves a window of opportunity - Fit and use good quality locks on doors and windows and ensure they are closed, even when you are inside

• Keep valuables and keys in a safe place, out of sight and at a distance away from windows and doors where they can be snatched (Opportunist thieves take advantage of unlocked doors and can very quickly step inside and snatch items such as handbags, purses and laptops)

• Make your home appear occupied when out or away by using timer switches or leaving a light on

• Consider installing outside security lighting and a burglar alarm

• Don’t open your door to unexpected callers – check their identity first using a door viewer or a door chain. Always check the identity of business callers as identification cards will always be carried and readily offered. If in doubt, keep them out. Genuine callers will always provide a contact number for their head office in order for you to check up on the nature of their work

• Mark your valuables with your postcode – speak to your Neighbourhood Policing Team about how to get Smartwater to protect your valuables

• Lock away ladders, garden tools and other items that burglars could use

• Remember – if you can get into your home without your keys – so could a burglar

• Remove all property from your vehicle when you leave it unattended. Keep your car in a secure garage or on the driveway of your home. If you park in the street make sure it is locked and in a well lit area

Police officers are working with school children to explain the importance of staying safe and respecting their communities as half term approaches. They will also be urging youngsters to log onto http://www.wotson4u.com/ throughout next week, to find out what activities they can get involved with in their area.

Dedicated Neighbourhood Policing Teams are available to give individual crime prevention advice for local residents and businesses and listen to their concerns. To get in touch with your local team please call 0845 33 00 247

Further crime prevention advice and information on the issues police are tackling in your area is available by logging on to www.cumbria.police.uk

Police have also created a brand new crime prevention advice video which is available on their dedicated YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/cumbriapolice 

Love Barrow Awards - nominations open today!

Love Barrow Awards 2011 launched today - get your copy of the nomaination form from the link below and nominate that special person or group in your community.

http://www.box.net/shared/739ev8k6iq

Town Centre bench design marks 50 years of Nuclear Submarine Building

Barrow celebrates 50 years of Nuclear Submarine Building for the Royal Navy with the unveiling of the Dreadnought Benches in Barrow Town Centre by a former Captain of Dreadnought, Rear Admiral Paddy O’Riordan and the Mayor and Mayoress of Barrow-in-Furness, Councillor Rory and Mrs Wendy McClure. The Dreadnought Association, comprising former crew members who served on the boat, will also be present as guests of Barrow Borough Council.

The idea for the Dreadnought bench came from researching the industrial heritage of Barrow to inform the design of the bespoke street furniture. The bench was one of several ideas to be included in the scheme based on the themes of Barrow’s maritime and industrial heritage. Other items included the capstan bollard and the LED ‘wave’ lighting set into the paving. The designs were produced by Capita Symonds.

The bench on Dalton Road nearest the ship yard will have a plaque installed to mark the Anniverary. The plaque has been produced by Castle Fine Arts Foundry Ltd of Llanrhaeadr ym Mochnant, Nr Oswestry, Powys and features Dreadnought’s ship’s crest.

HMS Dreadnought was the first Nuclear submarine built for the Royal Navy and was launched by the Queen on Trafalgar Day 1960.

Terry Spurling of the Dreadnought Association commented “I think the Dreadnought Association and Nuclear Submariners in general are very appreciative of the efforts of Barrow Borough Council to recognise this milestone in the town and submarine histories.”

Steve Solsby, the Council’s Assistant Director of Regeneration commented “Barrow Borough Council secured £3.59m from the North West Development Agency to repave and enhance the street scene within the Civic Spine of the Town Centre. The opportunity was taken to commission a bespoke design for the street furniture to mark the town’s links with submarine building.”

Local views sought for the future electoral arrangements for Cumbria

Local residents are being invited to give their views on what their county council will look like in the future as the independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England begins an electoral review of Cumbria County Council from Tuesday 12 October 2010.

The review will consider changes to the number of councillors on the council as well as the number and boundaries of the county council’s electoral divisions.

Max Caller, Chair of the Commission, said: “Having fair electoral boundaries is important for local democracy.

“The purpose of a review is to try to ensure that each councillor represents around the same number of people and that every elector’s vote is worth the same. That’s not the case at the moment in Cumbria. Dalston and Cummersdale division in Carlisle, for example, has 33% more electors than the average for the county while Moss Bay division in Allerdale has 27% fewer. That represents a major imbalance in the value of people’s votes across the county.

“During the course of the review, we’ll also want to reflect local community identities when we redraw the electoral divisions of the county. This is your chance to shape your council for the future”.

The first stage of the Commission’s consultation closes on 22 November 2010. During this stage, local people are being invited to comment – specifically – on how many county councillors should serve Cumbria in total.

Once it has considered the evidence provided by local people and organisations, the Commission will then publish its proposal on the total number of councillors and invite further views on where new division boundaries should be drawn. The Commission will publish draft recommendations for new divisions across Cumbria in the summer of 2011.

Following further public consultation on its draft recommendations, the Commission is aiming to publish its final plans in early 2012.The new electoral arrangements would then be due to come into effect for the county council elections in May 2013.

Further information on electoral reviews and guidance on what sort of information the Commission is looking for should be available at council offices, in your local library, or on our website at www.lgbce.org.uk

To have your say, please write to:

The Review Officer (Cumbria)

Local Government Boundary Commission for England

Layden House

76-86 Turnmill Street

London EC1M 5LG

Or email: reviews@lgbce.org.uk 

Thought for the Week

“Be as you wish to seem.” Socrates

Firework display to celebrate 50 years of Nuclear Submarine Building

Barrow celebrates 50 years of Nuclear Submarine Building for the Royal Navy with a spectacular firework display on Saturday, 23rd October, 2010 at 7.30 pm. The first Nuclear submarine built for the Royal Navy was HMS Dreadnought, which was launched by the Queen on Trafalgar Day 1960. A magnificent firework display has been commissioned by Barrow Borough Council to mark this anniversary.

The Display will take place across Walney Channel and will be accompanied by music at the Dock Museum, the prime viewing location.

It will commence with a large set piece accompanied by Apache by the Shadows, a number 1 hit from 1960. The colours of the display with reflect the psychedelia of the 1960s with pink, lime green, orange and lemon evident throughout.

The second element of the display with address the reality of the cold war and the tensions between Western Europe and the Eastern bloc countries in the 1960s and 1970s. Dreadnought played a major role in the defence of the United Kingdom throughout this period. To the music Two Tribes by Frankie Goes to Hollywood fireworks will reflect the chaos and potential violence of war.

The third element of the display will acknowledge the unique life of the submariner and crew members of Dreadnought to the jaunty march, Up Periscope performed by the Band of the Royal Marines and will include patriotic “ensign” shells in red, white and blue.

The finale is the legacy towards peace. With the cold war over and Dreadnought in retirement we capture a vision of a peaceful future. The display concludes on a positive and uplifting note to the music World in Union.

The display has been commissioned from Jubilee Fireworks who have worked throughout the world winning prestigious competitions such as The Philippines International Pyromusical Competition 2010, The Champion of Champions Award 2008 and 2006, HM Queen’s Golden Jubilee Fireworks Nassau, 42nd International Fireworks Comptition – San Sebastian (Spain) 2005 and in the UK World Fireworks Championships (Blackpool) winners 2007. Jubilee Fireworks provided the Walney Bridge Centenary Firework display.

For safety purposes the Channelside promenade between the Dock Museum and Furness College will be closed to pedestrians between 12 noon and 9.00 pm. With the celebrations expected to go with a loud bang, Jubilee Fireworks recommend that pet owners are advised to keep pets indoors during the display.

From 7pm and following the firework display there will be entertainment from Pyromania, a visual fire and juggling act at the Dock Museum. Refreshments, children’s sweets and balloons will be also be on sale and Union Jack flags will be given out to those viewing the fireworks from the Dock Museum site.

Please contact Ann Taylforth, Town Centre & Festivals Manager on 01229 876389 if you require further information.

Beach Clean at Earnse Bay

From 13:00 to 15:00 - Saturday 30th October 2010

Contact Gemma Blackburn 0300 060 4329 or 07786 482884 for more info.

Joint event with Natural England. Meet in the car park at the Earnse Bay. GR SD170699

Barrow and District Credit Union Public Meeting

A follow up public meeting will take place on;

When? - Monday 1st November

Time? - 6.30pm start

Where? - Nan Tait Centre, Abbey Road, Barrow

Who? - Anyone interested in helping set up a Barrow and District Credit Union Steering Group is very welcome to come along.

If anyone is interested in finding out more please contact:-

 

Gordon Henry, Cumbria Credit Union Development Coordinator on (01900) 607 532 or e-mail gordon.henry@harvesthousing.org.uk

Thought for the Week

"Philosophy begins in wonder. " Plato

http://www.infed.org/thinkers/et-plato.htm

How To Access Council Housing Services

Barrow Borough Council  Housing department have their office at: Cavendish House, 78 Duke Street, Barrow-in-Furness.

The office hours are: Monday - Thursday, 9am - 4.30pm

Friday 9am - 4pm (Wednesday - Office Training until 10am).

You can telephone them: Customer Services Tel. 876491 or call a specific member of staff using the contact numbers published at the office, on their website, and in their newsletter, 'Housing Matters'.

The 24 Emergency No. for Homelessness or Repairs Tel. 833311

You can email them at: housing@barrowbc.gov.uk

They have a website at: http://www.barrowbc.gov.uk/

Request a pin number and you can gain access to their services through SeeMyData which will allow you to report or check on the progress of a repair, view your rent account, and access online forms such as transfer applications and online surveys.

Vote for Roanhead!

The National Trust locally have applied for funding from Bovril’s great outdoors campaign for 2 projects at Sandscale Haws (Roanhead). Funding will go to the properties that achieve the most number of votes by 31 December (which is where you come in). These projects are really important for improving the visitor experience and conservation objectives and the National Trust at Roan Head would really appreciate your support.

Please could you spread the word amongst family, friends, colleagues etc. If we are going to get this funding for our area then we will need every vote possible.

To vote just go to: www.bovril.co.uk/revival

Click on 'Find a Project' and then search for 'Sandscale' or postcode 'LA14 4QJ'.

This brings up spade icons on the map.

Zoom in and you will see that there are 2 spade icons at Sandscale Haws. Simply click on one (you can only vote once!) and register your details to vote for the project. Thank you ever so much.

Changes to recycling

Following a successful trial Barrow Council's recycling contractor Biffa have decided to use a new method for collecting your recyclable material. The method is called 'single pass' and involves the use of a refuse collection type vehicle, which is split into two compartments. One side will be for paper only and will be recycled separately. The other side will be for glass, cans, cardboard and plastic. These materials will be transported to a Materials Recycling Facility where they will be segregated, baled then sent for reprocessing.

This method has a number of advantages including reducing the number of collection vehicles on the roads and it also means that you only have to keep the paper separate the others can be mixed together and can be presented in any container as long as it is not too heavy for the operators to lift.

For more information about the changes and other recycling issues visit http://www.barrowbc.gov.uk/Default.aspx?page=293

Mayor & Mayoress of Barrow open The Mall

Barrow's Mayor and Mayoress are due to open the newly refurbished Mall tommorrow, Wednesday 6 October after extensive improvment work has taken place.

The improvements to the Mall include:

• Replacement of existing paving with light grey granite slabs

• Ceiling removal and replacement with fire protection including cladding to the existing shop fronts and shop front improvements to four shop units

• Provision of a new LED energy efficient lighting scheme

• Gates to both ends of the Mall, with CCTV. The night-time security gates (supported by the Police) have a strong design element linking with the Ginnell, Forum and Furness House

• 12 No. exhibition boxes contained in a feature wall opposite the entrance to the Indoor Market Hall

A number of local companies have been utilised: Capita Symonds (Consultant), Chris Brammall, Schofield Construction, Caulfield Electrical, Lumier, Furness Plastics, Edmundson’s and City Electrical Factors.

The following north western companies were also involved with the project: Askam Construction Ltd (Main Contractor), Gledhill Construction Ltd, FTS Fire and Security and Grafix Signs.

Mr. Steve Solsby, Assistant Director of Regeneration commented “£250 000 was provided by Barrow Regeneration with NWDA funding and Barrow Borough Council provided £250 000 of capital funding. Investment in the Town Centre is a critical element in the regeneration of Barrow. The restoration and improvement of the covered thoroughfare also relates to other important initiatives (Housing Market Renewal and the Townscape Heritage Initiative) and opportunities within the town by also addressing the key strategic routes and gateways into the town by linking the town centre with the Waterfront Barrow proposals and the town’s waterfront.”

The Mall has been one of three improvement schemes recently completed by the Borough Council to complement the funding secured by the Borough Council for the town centre improvement works along Dalton Road/Portland Walk. All the highway works were carried out under a legal agreement between Barrow Borough Council and Cumbria County Council.

The Market Traders and the Barrow Traders Association welcome the improvements, meeting the need to create a more friendly environment and with a view to increasing footfall and creating an enhanced shopping environment.

Barrow Market offers customers excellent value, choice and customer service and the diversity of stalls and the quality of goods available help make it attractive to local shoppers and visitors.

Police dog handler apprehends suspected burglar in Barrow

At around 2.30am on Sunday 3 October, a local police dog handler, PC Glenn Myerscough, was on foot patrol with his police dog, Dexter, on Durham Street, Barrow.

PC Myerscough came across a male acting suspiciously and when he challenged him, the male tried to run off but was subsequently pursued and detained by PC Myerscough and Dexter.

The 17 year old male from Barrow was located and arrested. After locating property on him at the time of arrest, police officers discovered that an insecure house on Marsden Street had just been subject to a burglary. He was later charged with committing this burglary and is due to appear in Furness Youth Court on 22 October 2010.

Barrow police are reminding householders to secure their homes by locking doors and windows and removing valuables from sight – lock it or lose it.

For further crime prevention advice or to contact your local police officer, visit www.cumbria.police.uk or contact your Neighbourhood policing team on 0845 33 00 247