Bikers urged to enjoy Cumbria safely this bank holiday weekend

May Day bank holiday is one of the busiest weekends on Cumbria’s roads as bikers flock to enjoy the winding roads and stunning views on offer around the region.

After six fatal motorcycle collisions in the county, however, police are urging bikers to think of their families, and to ride safely.

Sergeant Jo Lennox is a police motorcyclist in Cumbria’s roads policing unit, and manages the county’s Bikesafe scheme, which provides education to motorcyclists in a bid to reduce the number of people killed and seriously injured on the region’s roads.

She said: “My team and I love welcoming bikers to the area to enjoy all we have to offer. Cumbria is a haven for motorcyclists, as our roads are relatively traffic-free and we have some of the most stunning scenery in the UK.

“We spend a lot of time engaging with bikers in the area, encouraging them to stay safe. Unfortunately this message is not getting through, and we have already dealt with six fatal motorcycle collisions in Cumbria in just two months. That is six tragedies too many, and six families torn apart by a needless death.

“My officers and I will be out and about throughout Cumbria this weekend, keeping an eye on motorists behaviour and we want to enjoy the weekend without being called to a serious collision, and without having to be the ones to break the news to another grieving family.

“Our message is simple – ride safely. Before you take a risk, think about your loved ones – is it worth tearing their lives apart for one split-second thrill?”

Since the end of February this year, six motorcyclists have died in Cumbria following road traffic collisions.

On Monday 25th April, Stephen Gray, 43, from Lemon St in South Shields, died after his motorcycle collided with a dry stone wall on the A686 between Alston and Hartside summit.

On Friday 22nd April, Lee Matthews, 41, died when his motorcycle collided with a wall on Ferry Road in Barrow.

On Saturday 9th April, Andrew Mitchell, 44, from Blackpool, died after his motorcycle collided with a car near Kirk Bridge, Garsdale.

On Monday 21st March, Kenneth Hardy, 72, from Windermere, died after his Harley Davidson collided with a car on the A591 near Plantation Bridge. He leaves behind his wife, two sons and three grandchildren.

On Sunday 6th March, John Tweddell, 44, from Morecambe, died when his motorcycle collided with a car on the A683 between Sedbergh and Middleton. He leaves behind his wife, parents and two sisters.

On Monday 28th February, Jordan Peck, 17, from Keswick, died after his motorcycle collided with a car near Dovenby, Cockermouth.

Sgt Lennox said: “Seeing a list of every biker who has died in a collision in Cumbria this year brings home the sadness and heartache left behind, and the sheer waste of a life. Please don’t add your name to this list. Ride safely.”

Motorcyclists have the opportunity to improve their riding skills and road sense through Bikesafe courses run by Cumbria Constabulary that provide education sessions and assessed ride outs to bikers using the county’s roads.

For further information about future Bikesafe courses, contact Sgt Jo Lennox on 0845 33 00 247, email her at joanne.lennox@cumbria.police.uk or visit the Bikesafe website www.bikesafe.co.uk.

You can also keep up to date with the Cumbria Bikesafe Facebook page.

Could you be an Independent Custody Visitor!

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 and Ulverston 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 a unique insight into the working of the police service.”

The closing date for the applications is Tuesday 24 May 2011. Anyone requiring further information should contact:

Emily Pratt

Cumbria Police Authority

Carleton Hall

Penrith

CA10 2AU

Telephone 01768 217416

E-mail emily.pratt@cumbria.police.uk

Website www.cumbriapoliceauhtority.org.uk

Figures reveal crime continues to fall in Cumbria

Crime statistics released today reveal that overall crime dropped by six percent in Cumbria between December 2009 and December 2010 and the county has the second lowest burglary rates in England and Wales.

The Home Office quarterly statistics reveal that there were 27,016 crimes reported in Cumbria during the twelve month period which results in the county being ranked as the area that has the lowest crime levels in England and Wales, second only to Dyfed Powys.

The statistics also confirm that Cumbria Constabulary ranks as the third force nationally for inspiring confidence in the public, with 64 per cent of local people agreeing that police are dealing with local concerns and 52 per cent agreeing that police deal and local councils deal with local issues.

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.

Taking a closer look at the report, statistics reveal that Cumbria has recorded a 17 per cent drop in overall burglary offences with 12 per cent fewer homes being broken into and a 20 per cent reduction in burglaries at sheds, outhouses and business premises (burglary other than dwellings).

Violent crime has fallen by 5 per cent; criminal damage has dropped by 11 per cent, vehicle crime by 18 per cent, and fraud by 7 per cent. However, the number of sexual offences reported to police has increased by 13 per cent after officers recorded 405 crimes in the county, and 1,827 drug offences were reported, equating to a 24 per cent increase.

Chief Constable Craig Mackey said: “As a Constabulary, we have worked hard to reduce crime in Cumbria over the last twelve months so I’m pleased to see that yet again, crime has fallen and there are even fewer victims in the county.

“Tackling burglaries has been a top priority for us and today’s report confirms that the hard work has paid off as 17 per cent fewer homes and businesses have been targeted.

“Over the last year, Neighbourhood Policing Teams have been working closely with local residents and partner agencies to focus on issues and concerns that matter to each city, town or village. Tackling the issues that have the biggest impact on the quality of life for people in Cumbria will continue – and we hope that local communities will continue to support us and have their say on what policing should look like in their area.”

Speaking about the increase in sexual offences and drug offences, Mr Mackey continued: “We are constantly re-evaluating trends and any increases in crime and, although it is disappointing to see any crime rise, we have developed strong links and trust with local people who provide us with important information about what is happening in their area. People need to have confidence in us to be able to report a crime so, on one hand it is encouraging that more people are speaking up and not suffering in silence.

“We have also put a great deal of effort into targeting drugs and serious and organised crime in Cumbria which is reflected in the increase in the number of crimes we have uncovered and recorded. Officers have adopted a more proactive approach to tackling the misuse of drugs and large numbers of dedicated operations have been arranged to disrupt drug dealers and their circles of criminality.

“Increasing numbers of warrants, arrests and drug seizures have taken place over the last twelve months, sending out a very strong message to drug dealers out there. This will continue over the next year as we work together to make Cumbria even safer.”

It's time to get your camera out! - Photo Competition

We are seeking photographs of the wonderful coastline, wildlife, buildings and your use (camping, windsurfing, dog walking, to name but a few) of Barrow’s islands for the 'Islands of Barrow Photographic Competition and Exhibition'.

The Borough has a world class coastal heritage with nature reserves, RAMSAR designations and 'Sites of Special Scientific Interest'. The coast is the Borough's playground and the sea has had such a strong influence on the area from Furness Abbey's trading activities in medieval times, to the town's shipbuilding heritage right through to 21st century recreational activities such as kitesurfing.

Photographs submitted for 'The Islands of Barrow Competition' will be considered for publication in a calendar and an exhibition to be held at the Dock Museum from 1st February 2012 – 1st April 2012.

To enter email a high-resolution image (one per entry), plus a sentence or two about what inspired you to take your photo, to consultation@barrowbc.gov.uk by 1st November 2011; please supply a daytime telephone number.

Conditions apply - go to http://www.dockmuseum.org.uk/photocomp for full terms and conditions. If you wish to submit your entry on a CD please send this to; Photography Competition, Regeneration Department, Town Hall, Duke Street, Barrow-in-Furness, LA14 2LD.

Photographs will be selected by the Islands of Barrow photography team. There will be no payment for publication.

We cannot consider photographs submitted on behalf of another person.

Quirky facts - Did you know there were eleven islands of Barrow?

Barrow Island, Walney Island, Piel Island, Roa Island, Foulney Island, Sheep Island, Headin Haw, Dova Haw, Little Foulney* St. Michaels* Ramsey Island*

(*shown on Admiralty Charts)

For further information please contact Mrs. Ann Taylforth, Town Centre and Festivals Manager on 01229 876389 or Sabine Skae Collections Manager at The Dock Museum on 01229 876400.

This is a Seachange Cultural Event 

Interested in growing your own? Got limited space? This is for YOU!

Natterjack Toad Walk - Monday 18 April 7pm

Thought for the Week

“Never believe that a few caring people can't change the world. For, indeed, that's all who ever have.” Margaret Mead

Police warning to under 18's fraudulently using ID

Police are issuing a warning to young people in Barrow as increasing numbers of under 18s are attempting to fraudulently use friends’ and relatives’ ID to get into pubs and clubs in Barrow.

Every weekend, officers are being handed around five forms of identification that door and bar staff have confiscated after they were used fraudulently.

Sergeant Ian McClymont who has responsibility for policing of the night time economy in Barrow said: “The door staff who work at the pubs and clubs in Barrow have become efficient at identifying underage people who are trying to con their way into their premises.

“We have a good working relationship with licensees and door staff in the area and we continue to encourage and support the essential work they do to prevent the sale of alcohol to those underage.

“The number of passports and driving licenses that are handed to us is worrying, and I don’t think youngsters realise the serious consequences of using somebody else’s ID. By conning your way into licensed premises you are committing fraud - it is a criminal offence that could see you sent to prison.

“It can also be a massive inconvenience for the friend or relative that lends a minor their ID. We send all the confiscated driving licences to the DVLA and it will be the responsibility of the owner to reapply for their license. The passports that have been confiscated are also sent to the Home Office so the owner will have to reapply.

“It is considered a privilege, not a right, to possess a British passport and abusing a passport in this way is considered serious. There is no guarantee that the person will be re-issued with another passport.

“I’d urge friends and relatives to stop and think before lending someone their ID. We are fast approaching summer when people will be planning to travel abroad on holiday. If you lend out your passport, expect to have it seized and you could have your summer holiday plans spoiled.”

Thought for the Week

“Through others, we become ourselves.” - L. S. Vygotsky

Barrow Funding Fair - 6 April

The Barrow Funding Fair will take place on Wednesday 6 April 2011 at the forum, Duke Street, Barrow, from 9.45am – 2pm.

The event will provide groups with an excellent opportunity to talk to funders, attend presentations and workshops, network with other organisations, and receive valuable funding advice, support and information.

Funders confirmed include: Big Lottery Fund, Cumbria Community Foundation, Hadfield Trust, and more....

Secure your place now! Cumbria CVS Barrow, Lesser Kings Hall, 57-59 Hartington Street, Barrow, LA14 5SR or email: barrow@cumbriacvs.org.uk

For further details of the day, please call 01229 825630

The FireFighters Charity Car Wash.

Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th April 2011 at Barrow Fire Station, 10am to 5pm both days.

Enter via the stations rear gate off Phoenix Road.

All vehicles washed for a donation to 'The FireFighters Charity'.

Why not drop your old clothes and books off for recycling in the containers by the station gates as well?

Free Tea and Coffee whilst you wait.

About your vote!

There are elections for Barrow Borough Council and a referendum on the voting system happening on Thursday 5 May 2011.

If you aren't registered to vote yet you have until Thursday 14 April to do so.

You can find out more about the elections, referendum, registering to vote and why voting is important at www.aboutmyvote.co.uk.

Barrow and Furness Pensioners' Association meeting

11th of April, 1.30pm - 3.00pm in the Studio at Forum 28, Duke Street.

Disabled access via a lift, refreshments available with a small fund raising raffle. On the agenda will be our Blackpool Pensioner Parliament visit, North West Ambulance Trust endeavours to become a Foundation Trust, Walney First Responders information and information on changes known for pensioners in the budget.

All welcome.

Furness Breast Cancer Support Group

The group aims to provide support to people whose lives have been affected by breast cancer. The group meets twice a month in the Green Room, The Forum, Duke Street, Barrow. 1st Monday 2pm to 4pm, (bank holidays on the 2nd Monday), 3rd Wednesday 7pm to 9pm.

There are often speakers or demonstrations at the meeting. There will also be plenty of opportunity to obtain information and for an informal chat over a cup of tea or coffee and biscuits.

Monday 4 April 2011

'Prevention on Lymphoedema' by Denise Hardy, an illustrated talk.

Wednesday 20 April 2011

'Island Gems of Morecambe Bay' by John Murphy

Monday 9 May 2011 (n.b. 2nd Monday)

'Lingerie, Breast Forms and Swimwear' by an Amoena Representative

For further information contact Margaret (Secretary) 01229 822470, or Jenny (Evening Co-ordinator) 01229 465355.

Faith Community Online Event

Cumbria Constabulary is holding a faith community online event on Wednesday the 27th April from 1:30pm to 3.30pm for contacts who are engaged in the running of faith communities in the County.

Hosting the meeting will be Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Hyde, Inspector Tim Ward - Chair of the Christian Police Association Cumbria, the Constabulary’s Co-ordinating Police Chaplain - Canon Graham Bettridge whose role focuses on the pastoral care of the police community and the wider community of Cumbria and a representative of Bishop James details yet to be confirmed.

The aim of the online event is to develop and improve the relationship between the police and all faith communities in Cumbria.

To join this meeting, visit the following page www.cumbria.police.uk/webchat

Thought for the Week

“Your teacher can open the door, but you must enter by yourself.” Chinese proverb

Have your say on new electoral divisions for Cumbria

The Local Government Boundary Commission for England (LGBCE) has begun the second part of its consultation on electoral arrangements for Cumbria County Council from 29 March 2011.

Following the completion of its initial consultation late last year, the Commission is proposing that the council should have 84 county councillors – the same as at present. The LGBCE now needs information from people and groups across Cumbria to help it to map out a new pattern of electoral divisions for the county.

The Commission was due to announce its recommendation on the number of county councillors for Cumbria in late 2010 but delayed its decision as it sought further information from the council. Having considered the council’s plans for devolving decision making to local areas and its ambitions in relation to the representational role of county councillors in the future, the Commission has decided to retain the current number of county councillors.

Max Caller, Chair of the LGBCE, said “It is not uncommon for the Commission to seek further information from local authorities before coming to a decision on an important issue like council size. That’s why we have had further meetings to find out more about the role county councillors are likely to play in the future and their potential workload. The County Council’s plan to devolve decision making to local committees, for example, was one of the key reasons why we have concluded that 84 councillors is the right number for Cumbria

“We are now asking for information and evidence from people across Cumbria that will help us understand where the new electoral division boundaries should be drawn. We will be looking for evidence of strong community ties and areas that should be together in the same divisions. We’ll also be looking at the natural boundaries between communities.

“First and foremost, we want to ensure that the pattern of divisions means that everyone’s vote in Cumbria is of roughly equal value regardless of where they live in the county. Our other major consideration is to ensure that divisions genuinely reflect local communities.

“Your views will make a difference. After all, local people know Cumbria best. We encourage anyone who is interested in what the new divisions should look like to submit evidence-based proposals to the Commission.

“We will carefully consider all evidence that is provided during the consultation, whoever it is from and whether it applies to the whole county or just a small part of it.

“We will also publish all submissions so that local people can see all the various proposals we receive. Residents will then have a further chance to have their say after we publish our draft recommendations in September 2011.”

This stage of consultation will last until 20 June 2011. Further information on electoral reviews and guidance on what sort of information the Commission is looking for is available on the LGBCE website at www.lgbce.org.uk.