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Barrow’s Wildside – new events listing published

FREE walks, talks, training and volunteering. Events start 2 October and run through to April 2013.

2 October 'Making it wild at South Walney' Tuesday 10.30-3.30pm, meet South Walney Nature Reserve. Help manage the reserve over the winter months.
 
7 October 'Making it wild at South Walney – Beach Clean' Sunday 10-12noon, meet South Walney Nature Reserve.

16 October 'Making it wild at South Walney' Tuesday 10.30-3.30pm, meet South Walney Nature Reserve. Help manage the reserve over the winter months.

16 October ‘Wildlife Trust nature reserves in Cumbria’ Tuesday 7.30-8.30pm at the Forum, Duke St, Barrow. A talk about the work of Cumbria Wildlife Trust and its diverse range of nature reserves.

30 October 'Making it wild at South Walney' Tuesday 10.30-3.30pm, meet South Walney Nature Reserve. Help manage the reserve over the winter months.

Save your life with twenty pence– check your tyres!

 October has been dedicated by Cumbria Police as Tyre Safety month and drivers will be urged to check their tyres to ensure they are safe and legal before the winter weather sets in.

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.

By simply using a twenty pence piece, however, everyone can check the tread on their tyres and potentially prevent another tragedy.

Police officers will be out and about across the county to encourage people to check their tyres, and will be on the look out for motorists driving on illegal or dangerous tyres during stop-checks.

PC Shaun McKeown, a Forensic Vehicle Examiner with Cumbria Constabulary’s Collision Investigation Unit, said “Road safety is a priority for police in Cumbria and it only takes a few minutes to check tyres by using 20p and by doing so could prevent a tragedy.

“All too often in Cumbria we hear about people’s lives being ruined by serious road traffic collisions, and this is even more devastating when we investigate them and it becomes apparent that it was caused by something as avoidable as a defective tyre.

“We will be out and about conducting stop checks across Cumbria to educate drivers about the risks. Motorists found to be driving on illegal tyres face a maximum penalty of three points per tyre on their license and a fine of up to £2,500 per tyre.

“It’s such an easy thing to check, and we should all look at our tyres as a matter of routine, maybe when you’re washing the car or when checking the pressure of your tyres.

“We are really keen for parents to instil the importance of vehicle maintenance on their teenage children when they begin driving as well, and would ask people to spread the tyre safety message to family and friends. You never know – you might save a life.

“It is simple to check your tyre tread, you only have to insert a 20p in the trend and if you can see any of the rim around the edge then you need to be getting your tyres checked. We understand not everyone will be confident in checking them, or if you do the test and you’re not sure, visit your local garage as the vast majority will inspect your tyres for free.”

As part of the campaign officers will be also working with Trading Standards to check on the selling of part-worn tyres to unsuspecting members of the public.

PC McKeown continued “We are committed to checking every aspect of tyre safety and will be looking at local garages to make sure that the tyres which are being sold are fit for purpose. In these financially difficult times, it is understandable that people will look to save some money and buy a tyre which they believe is ok but at a cost price. We want to make sure that people are not putting their lives at risk.

“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 – and don’t forget 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. www.tyresafe.org

Thought for the Week

“A loving heart is the beginning of all knowledge.” Thomas Carlyle

50 Days to go

In 50 days time the people of Cumbria will be choosing their first Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC).

The new Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) will replace the county’s Police Authority following an election on the 15 November. The PCC will be responsible for setting policing priorities, deciding how the policing budget is spent, holding the Chief Constable to account and consulting with the public.

Stuart Edwards, Chief Executive, Cumbria Police Authority said “We are now starting to count down the days to the Police and Crime Commissioner Elections on 15 November.

I would ask people to mark on their calendars the 15 November so that we get a good turn out from our communities.

The election of a PCC is the biggest change to the policing landscape for many years.  The PCC will have greater responsibilities and a wider role than the existing Police Authority.  By voting the people of Cumbria can influence the future policing in the county and their community.

Any potential PCC candidates will have until noon on 19 October to submit their nomination.  If you would like further information about the role of the PCC, please contact the Police Authority office or visit www.cumbriapoliceauthority.org.uk/pcc.

On our website, we have recently added a range of useful information for candidates

The Police Authority will be working hard in the next 50 days to ensure a smooth transition to the new PCC.”

Monday, 24 September 2012

Barrow Island Community Trust Big Local Steering Group Meeting

Thursday 27 September 2012, at 6pm. Barrow Island Community Trust invites the residents of Barrow Island and the Ferry Road triangle to their next Big Local steering group meeting at the Drop-in Centre, corner Island Road and Anchor Road.
What is Big Local? Big Local is an exciting opportunity for residents in 150 areas, Barrow Island being one of those areas, around England to use at least £1m to make a massive and lasting positive difference to their communities. It’s all about bringing together the local talent, ambitions, skills and energy from individuals, groups and organisations who want to make their area an even better place to live. Big Local is run by Local Trust, which is working with the Big Lottery Fund and a range of partners providing expert advice and support for residents.
What’s it not about? It’s not about the government or a national organisation telling you what to do. It’s not about individual groups fixing their favourite problem without talking to wide range of different people who live and work in the community. It’s not about short term thinking – we’ve got 10 years or more to plan and deliver the best options for our area.
Who are the key people? We are. Unlike lots of big initiatives, this is about putting residents in charge. We have to make sure everybody in our area can input on the plans and decisions and that we get access to lots of support, including a Big Local rep, but basically it’s our shout.  We have at least £1m and at least 10 years to make it happen.
For more information visit www.barrowislandcommunity.com or email bictlisam@hotmail.com

Thursday, 20 September 2012

Street Soccer back in Ormsgill

Street Soccer starting next week at Ormsgill MUGA, 6-7pm on Wednesday nights.

For 8-15 year olds and its FREE.

No kit required, just turn up and play.

Barrow AFC prizes to be won.
For more information email brad@barrowafc.com

Thought for the Week


“Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a persistent one.” Albert Einstein

Wednesday, 19 September 2012

Police to host web chat for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities

Cumbria Constabulary is holding its first online meeting designed to appeal to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities next week to give people the opportunity to speak to police and gain valuable advice online.

On Thursday 27th September from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, officers will provide LGBT communities the opportunity to gain advice, find out about crime and hate-related issues locally and ask any questions.

Among a host of other partners, a representative from the Constabulary’s Strategic Independent Advisory Group (IAG) will be taking questions and Assistant Chief Constable Michelle Skeer will be on hand to give information on what support is available in Cumbria if people feel they have been harassed or attacked because of their sexuality or gender.

Assistant Chief Constable Michelle Skeer said “Everyone has the right to live their lives without the fear of violence and intimidation and it is up to the police to support communities and ensure that action is taken against people who commit crime.

“Hate crime in any form is unacceptable and we do all we can to tackle the issue in Cumbria. However, we’re aware that hate crime is often something that goes unreported and we don’t want victims to suffer in silence.

“We have established Third Party Reporting Centres across the county which help us to get a clearer picture of the true nature of hate crime. We are committed to uncovering crime where it happens and we hope that this web chat will provide local people with the chance to ask questions anonymously or seek support from us in a way that some victims may feel is comfortable or convenient for them.

“We need victims to continue reporting crimes to us so that we can catch offenders and ensure people don’t become targeted as victims again.

“Some of the police officers who will be taking part in the web chat next week will also be attending Cumbria Pride, which takes place the following Saturday 29th September at the Swallow Hilltop Hotel, Carlisle.

“We hope that lots of people use this opportunity to speak to us whether that be to gain advice, seek support or just be virtually ‘introduced’ to their local policing officers.”

To join the web chat, visit the following page www.cumbria.police.uk/lgbt 

Dare DANCE new programme for 2012!

Dare DANCE - Healthy Body, Healthy Mind Programme
From September to December 2012

Head towards 2013 fitter, stronger and happier!
Classes for infants, juniors, youth projects, adults and mature movers … don’t miss out!

For more info ring 01229 833228,

Tuesday, 18 September 2012

Barrow Council's New Mobile Website

Barrow Borough Council has introduced a cut down, mobile version of their web site at www.barrowbc.gov.uk/mobile.
The initial version will allow you to view News, Events, and more importantly, report and request Refuse and Recycling issues on your Mobile Phone.

The following services are available:-
Report a Missed Black Bin
Report a Missed Brown Bin
Report a Missed Recycling Box
Report a Missed Recycling Bag
Report Dog Fouling
Report Fly Tipping
Report Graffiti
Report Vandalism

Request a New Black Bin
Request a New Brown Bin
Request a New Recycling Box (Paper)
Request a New Recycling Box (Glass, Cans)
Request a New Bin Bag (Plastic, Cardboard)
Request a New Recycling Bag
Request a Bulky Garden Waste Collection

Make a Refuse Collection Complaint
Ask a question about Refuse Collection
If the initial version of the site is successful we hope to add more information and services in the future.

Go to www.barrowbc.gov.uk/mobile in your mobile web browser.

Barrow gets in the Festive Mood would you like to join in?

Do you have a School Choir, Drama Group, Band or Church Choir?  Would you like to entertain shoppers on the streets of Barrow or in Barrow Market this Christmas?

Every year Barrow Indoor Market plays host to many local schools and choirs in the run up to Christmas. If you would like to entertain in the market, be it only for half and hour or so please contact Mrs. Ann Taylforth, Town Centre and Festivals Manager on 01229 876389 or e mail ataylforth@barrowbc.gov.uk to book your slot. Carol singers are allowed a bucket collection during performances. The Indoor Market is normally open Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays but from Monday 10th December until Monday 24th December, the market will be open every day.

Alternatively you may wish to perform on Dalton Road or Portland Walk.  If you wish to perform on the street, please contact Mrs Ann Taylforth, Town Centre and Festivals Manager on 01229 876389 to book your slot.

Ann Taylforth commented “Last year we had a lovely programme of entertainment in the run up to Christmas and we are always really grateful that local schools, the Salvation Army and Barrow Churches usually come and entertain shoppers. If anyone wants to help and entertain in the Christmas period we will be very grateful.”

Monday, 17 September 2012

Love Barrow Community Awards 2013

Nominations Now Open!!!

Nominations are now open for the Love Barrow Community Awards 2013. Visit http://lovebarrowawards.co.uk/ for more information and to access the nomination form.

This is your chance to recognise the hard work of people in your community or neighbourhood who go that extra mile.

Paper copies of the form are available from the Neighbourhood Management Office, 242-244 Dalton Road, Barrow.

Friday, 14 September 2012

Thought for the week

“Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.” Albert Einstein

Thursday, 13 September 2012

Fire Fighter's Charity Car Boot Sale - 28 September 2012

The Fire Fighter's Charity Car Boot Sale
Friday 28th September 2012 @ 5pm
TummerHill Football Pitch, Ocean Road, Walney Island
 £5 per car
No need to book a place just turn up on the evening
Further info @ mark.ducie@cumbria.gov.uk or
07809115040

Tuesday, 11 September 2012

Action for Children FREE Family Fun Day - event Cancelled!!

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO BAD WEATHER.


I’m sorry to say that the due to the condition of the pitch and the rain that we are still predicted, the Action for Children Free Family Fun Day on Sunday 23rd September has had to be cancelled. Unfortunately we have no plans to re-schedule.  (Action for Children)

Thursday, 6 September 2012

Thought for the Week

"Life's most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?" Martin Luther King Jr.

Tuesday, 4 September 2012

FILMTRAIN - supporting emerging film talent in the North West

A new training programme for emerging northwest-based filmmakers moving towards feature production.

FilmTrain provides an opportunity for producers, screenwriters and directors to take part in free workshops, attend master classes and receive mentoring from industry professionals to develop their craft. The programme takes place in Cumbria, Cheshire, Lancashire, Greater Manchester and Merseyside from September to December 2012.

Signal Films, working with Liverpool-based partners First Take, has been funded by the National Lottery through the British Film Institute and Creative England to run a programme of activities to support and develop the region’s emerging filmmakers.

Successful applicants will attend a three-day intensive workshop in their chosen field, taking place in a choice of two northwest locations. Established filmmakers will guide participants through the process of developing and packaging their projects to prepare them for raising finance.

The three-day sessions are aimed at filmmakers with some experience in their chosen field: Directing, Producing or Screenwriting. There are 10 places available on each course.

Tutors include Wellington Films producer Al Clark (London to Brighton), script consultant Sarah Golding (The Constant Gardener) and director Col Spector (Honeymooner).

Kerry Kolbe, director at Signal Films, said: “This is a great opportunity for people who’ve had some success making short films to come and learn from others in the industry who are a bit further down the track, to share ideas, tips and experiences and hook up with others who are pursuing the same goals.

“The producers workshops are coming up first at the Dukes in Lancaster later this month, with successful producer Al Clark. Then we’re delighted to be holding two of the workshops in Cumbria – one in October for writers with successful TV writer and filmmaker Sue Everett, and one for directors with acclaimed feature film writer/director Col Spector in November.

“I’m looking forward to meeting and working with the groups of filmmakers as well as getting all the inside track and knowledge from these exciting tutors.”
  
WORKSHOPS:
THURS 20th to SAT 22nd SEPTEMBER 2012
THE DUKES, LANCASTER
PRODUCERS will be guided through the process of developing
and packaging their projects to prepare them for financiers.  Applicants must have produced one short film or have Assistant Producer credits and have a project they wish to develop.
Led by Al Clark of Wellington Films

THURS 25thth to SAT 27th OCTOBER 2012
COOKE’S STUDIOS, BARROW IN FURNESS
SCREENWRITERS will each work on a treatment for an
original feature that is presently in development.  They will
explore structure, story, theme and characterisation as well
as receive notes and one-to-one consultation.
            Led by scriptwriter Sue Everett.

FRI 23rd to SUN 25th NOVEMBER 2012
COOKE’S STUDIOS, BARROW IN FURNESS
DIRECTORS will explore their own individual vision and
intuition to ensure they get the most out of performance,
design, cinematography, sound and post. Applicants must
have directed at least one short film, to be submitted at
the time of application.
            Led by writer/director Col Spector.

For further information and an application form please contact info@signalfilms.co.uk or call 01229 838592. 
  
This project is made possible with funding and support from the National Lottery through the BFI and Creative England, Barrow Borough Council, WREN, Liverpool City Council, Lancaster City Council, Cumbria County Council, The Dukes Lancaster and Creative Lancashire, a service provided by Lancashire City Council through its economic development company, Lancashire County Developments Limited (LCDL).