Barrow to host cycling extravaganza in May - announced as venue for Pearl Izumi Tour Series

Barrow to host cycling extravaganza in May

Cumbria will again play host to some of the world's best professional cyclists this year - with Barrow now confirmed as one of the 10 host venues of the Pearl Izumi Tour Series in May.

Following on from the success of the Tour of Britain in September 2013, Cumbria County Council is again working with the Tour organisers to arrange a special event - this time an adrenalin-filled team race around the streets of Barrow rather than the endurance test a full stage of the Tour represents.

Cumbria County Council will be working closely with Barrow Borough Council as the lead local delivery partners.

The race will be held on Thursday 15 May, the second date in the 10-venue, five-week national Pearl Izumi Tour Series. Barrow is the only venue in the North West to host an event this year and it is the first time Cumbria has ever hosted a Pearl Izumi Tour Series event.

More details are to come on the event next month, but the Tour Series works by having a one-hour race in a city or town centre closed circuit, normally around 1 mile in length and held in the early evening. For more details on this unique, team based event visit http://www.tourseries.co.uk/about/how_it_works.php

The races will be televised by ITV4, bringing action packed and exciting team-based racing into living rooms across the UK and presenting an opportunity for Barrow to showcase its location on a national footing. The event could attract up to 10,000 overnight visitors – bringing a big boost to the local economy.

Cllr David Southward, Cumbria County Council's Cabinet Member responsible for economic development, said:

"I'm delighted that once again Cumbria will be playing host to some of the cream of world cycling in what promises to be a special event. Last year the Tour of Britain interested and inspired both young and old and I'm sure the Tour Series will ignite Barrow this year with its unique blend of excitement and economic benefits. It will be a big day for the town and there's lots to look forward to."

Barrow Borough Council’s spokesperson for sport, Cllr Tony Callister, said:
"What a fantastic opportunity this is to raise interest in cycling and the benefits that keeping fit and healthy do to increase our wellbeing. Our local residents will have the chance to watch fine athletes competing on their doorstep.
“Barrow has a rich history of sporting activity and once again being the centre of attention to the television and news media keeps Barrow well and truly on the map in top places to visit on the fringes of the Lake District. I’m looking forward to a top day of sporting activity and the benefits it will bring for local trading."

The Pearl Izumi Tour Series 2014
2014 will be the sixth season of The Pearl Izumi Tour Series, a unique team based, televised city centre cycling series organised by SweetSpot Group Ltd, the company behind the organisation and promotion of The Tour of Britain. The Pearl Izumi Tour Series brings together the very best in British professional teams and riders, competing on town and city-centre circuits in front of packed crowds as a part of a full day of cycling activities.

Round One Tuesday 13 May Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire (includes Team Time Trial)
Round Two Thursday 15 May Barrow, Cumbria
Round Three Tuesday 20 May Peterborough, Cambridgeshire
Round Four Friday 23 May Aberystwyth, Ceredigion
Round Five Tuesday 27 May Durham, County Durham
Round Six Thursday 29 May Edinburgh, Lothian
Round Seven Tuesday 3 June Redditch, Worcestershire
Round Eight Thursday 5 June Canary Wharf, London
Round Nine Tuesday 10 June Woking, Surrey
Round Ten Friday 13 June Gorey, Jersey (includes Hill Climb event)

Barrow Raiders next home game

Thought for the Week

“Do the right thing. It will gratify some people and astonish the rest.” Mark Twain

Walk to Remember 2014 with St Mary's Hospice

Open evening at Adventures Youth Club

Thought for the Week

“The giving of love is an education in itself.” Eleanor Roosevelt

Cumbria Police issue advice to eBay and PayPal users

Cumbria Police are advising caution when responding to emails received as a result of transactions on eBay or PayPal.

There have been reports of emails circulating to genuine eBay sellers that are from scammers trying to get items posted that they have not purchased.  Some also falsely state that additional funds have been deposited, above the value of the item and request that the seller transfer the extra money into another account.

When purchasing items on eBay and paying via PayPal, any subsequent contact or emails should be checked via your personal account on the website direct. Do not click onto any links on emails received but log into your account on the genuine website, with a secure password and check the inbox.

If you believe you have been a victim of a scam involving these websites, please visit www.actionfraud.police.uk  for more advice on reporting.

For more information about staying safe, you can visit:

eBay: http://pages.ebay.co.uk/safetycentre/help.html

PayPal: www.paypal.com/uk/webapps/mpp/phishing

Advice is also available on the Cumbria Police website at: http://www.cumbria.police.uk/admin/uploads/attachment/files/Advice_and_Info/Fraud/eBay_PayPal_safe_guide.doc

Raiders at home this Sunday

"All in this together:" Are benefits ever a lifestyle choice? by Dole An...

Police issue advice for local businesses on cybercrime

Cumbria Police are advising small to medium businesses to take simple steps to protect themselves against online crime, as part of a week-long cybercrime campaign.

Detective Superintendent Andy Slattery explains:

“The key message we want to get across to local businesses is that they cannot afford to be complacent. Theft of data or identity details can lead to loss for clients and damage to their reputation.

“It is important for small to medium businesses in particular to be careful, as they are often unable to recover from a significant loss as a result of cybercrime. Large multi-national corporations are able to dedicate resources to preventing cybercrime but there are practical steps that smaller businesses can take to keep their security and their reputation intact.

“I would ask them to consider the implications of what it would mean if any of their passwords were compromised for example – money can be stolen, sensitive emails can be read, and their business can be seriously damaged.

“The same consequences are true of data loss, spam, phishing, spyware, viruses, and Trojans which no respectable business would want to be associated with. It is vitally important that local businesses are aware of these issues and take action to protect themselves against online crime.”

Information about the above e-crime methods, and how to protect against them, can be found on Cumbria Police’s website here:

http://www.cumbria.police.uk/Admin/uploads/attachment/files/Advice_and_Info/Cyber_Security_/Full_E_Crime_Guide_2.pdf

Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner Richard Rhodes said:

“I would urge all businesses, large and small, to take these very important steps to protect themselves from the threat of cybercrime.  I am aware this is emerging as a significant hazard to the business community and the consequences of businesses leaving themselves vulnerable to such crime should not be underestimated.”

Some important questions Cumbria Police are asking businesses to consider are:

• Do you have an ICT security policy?
• Do you have anti-virus software?
• Does the anti-virus software receive regular updates?
• Do you regularly scan your computer systems?
• Do you have a Firewall?
• Do you have a hardware Firewall separate from your router?
• Does your Firewall receive regular updates?
• Do you have anti-spam, anti-spyware/adware software?
• Do you use the latest version of your internet browser?
• If you have one, is the wireless network encrypted to Wi-Fi Protected Access standard (WPA2)?
• Is your wireless network protected by Media Access Control address filtering (MAC)?
• Do you restrict access to sensitive data amongst staff?
• Do you encrypt sensitive data?
• Do you take your backups offsite?
• Do you ever try to recover data from your backup?
• Do you train staff on how to deal with suspicious emails?
• Do you have a password policy and do you enforce it?

For advice about fraud, or to report a fraud, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 3040.

For more information about staying safe online please visit www.cumbria.police.uk/onlinesafety

More internet safety advice can be found on the Government’s ‘Cyberstreet’ website: www.cyberstreetwise.com

Beware Of Cold Callers

Following the severe weather yesterday, Cumbria Trading Standards are warning householders whose properties have been affected by storm damage to be on their guard against cold callers offering to carry out emergency remedial work.  The Service reinforces previous messages that people should use extreme caution when approached by any cold callers offering to conduct work on your property. These types of callers often use persuasive tactics to get people to agree to having work carried out and then charge more than was quoted for poor quality work or poor quality goods.
 Any householder who is having difficulty in finding a reputable tradesman should visit the Approved Trading Standards Service 'Buy With Confidence' Scheme on http://buywithconfidence.gov.uk/sitepages/bwchome.aspx.  Each member of Buy With Confidence has been individually vetted and approved by Trading Standards to ensure they operate in an honest way and in compliance with consumer protection laws.
 If you are approached by any cold callers or have any information about suspicious activity, please contact Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 08454 04 05 06 or contact Cumbria Police on 101.  Please look out for those who are vulnerable within your neighbourhoods and family.  Your actions could help protect others.
 For general advice on consumer issues visit www.adviceguide.org.uk

Follow us on twitter at www.twitter.com/cumbriats

Police issue advice against online fraud

Cumbria Police are advising people to take simple steps to help prevent online fraud, as part of a week-long cybercrime campaign.

There are a number of ways that criminals can access your personal details to commit identity fraud or steal money. One type of fraud that Cumbria Police have recently seen increasing is ‘romance fraud’.

Detective Superintendent Andy Slattery explains:

“The internet is a definitely a key target for fraudsters due to the sheer amount of personal and financial information people now provide online. The internet has made shopping, banking and communicating easier than ever – but there is a dark side to the internet that people need to protect themselves against.

“One area of online fraud we have seen an increase in is romance fraud – where offenders target vulnerable, often elderly, people through dating websites. One typical scam involves women being contacted by people pretending to be from the armed forces abroad, who ask for money. We have seen people lose hundreds of thousands of pounds through scams like these.

“I would urge anyone who uses the internet to take precautions when giving out any information online.”

Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner Richard Rhodes said:

“I fully support this initiative. At a time when the internet is playing a central role in people’s personal and business lives, I believe it is essential that everyone takes the necessary precautions to help keep themselves safe from this type of crime.”

Below are some simple steps to help keep you safe online:

• Do not give out any personal information (e.g. name, address, bank details etc.) before verifying the credentials of who is asking.

• Beware of phishing emails. Remember that banks and financial institutions will not ask you to click on a link in an email and confirm your bank details. If in doubt call your bank from their number – which can be found on official correspondence, their official website (typed directly into the address bar) or the phone book.

• Make sure your computer has up-to-date anti-virus software and a firewall installed. Ensure your browser is set to the highest level of security notification and monitoring, to prevent malware issues and computer crimes.

• Sign-up to ‘Verified by Visa’ or ‘MasterCard Secure Code’ whenever you are given the option online. This means registering a password with your card company, which means an additional layer of security to online purchases (with signed-up retailers).

• Be very wary of emails offering you business deals out of the blue – if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

For advice about fraud, or to report a fraud, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 3040.

For more information about staying safe online please visit www.cumbria.police.uk/onlinesafety

More internet safety advice can be found on the Government’s ‘Cyberstreet’ website: www.cyberstreetwise.com

Half Term Craft at the Dock Museum

Police urge children to stay safe online

Cumbria Police are urging young people to stay safe online, and encouraging parents to take an active interest in their children’s technology.

As more and more technologies are developed to be able to access the internet, an increasing number of children and young people are being exposed to dangers online.

These can range from cyberbullying, to distribution of sensitive information, to child sexual exploitation.

Police officers across the county regularly visit schools to teach children and young people about the risks of sending or receiving indecent images, and other dangers.

Click here for a short film of PC Keith Hunton giving a talk on online safety to pupils at Whitehaven School: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TfmSPb3yyXU&feature=youtu.be

Detective Superintendent Andy Slattery said:

“It is vital that young people understand the dangers involved in going online, so we work with local schools to directly warn these children.

“Some of the key issues we address cover things like the importance of privacy settings, the serious impact cyberbullying can have, and how once something is uploaded, or sent via the internet, you have lost control of it forever.

“As well as young people understanding the risks, it is equally important that parents are aware of who their child is communicating with online, and keep up-to-date with the latest technologies.

“It is just as important to protect your child in the ‘online’ world as it is in the ‘real’ world. Most parents wouldn’t let their child physically spend the night talking to a complete stranger, but that is exactly what is happening online.”

Mr Peter Davison, Headteacher from Victoria Junior School, Barrow, said:

“Children are using a growing variety of social media. While the majority of these are innocent, we must be vigilant in keeping children safe by educating them as to the procedures to follow whilst interacting online.”

Mrs Julie Evan, Assistant Principle at Whitehaven Academy, said:

“The safety and wellbeing of our students is a priority at all times. It is important to ensure that students have a knowledge and awareness of the dangers that inappropriate use of the internet can lead to and that they can be victims of cybercrime.
“The internet offers wonderful opportunities to communicate with others but children can be lulled into a false sense of security and can be vulnerable to those who prey on them; with education they have a greater chance to protect themselves and know what to do if they feel unsafe. Students have also learnt that they have a responsibility to use their smart phones and the internet responsibly so they do not find themselves in trouble with the police.
“Often they think this can only happen to someone else and PC Hunton's message was that this can happen to anyone, is happening in West Cumbria and that by being aware they will be safe. It was well received by all students.”

Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner Richard Rhodes said:

“I fully support the Constabulary’s initiative, and urge all youngsters and their parents to understand the potential risks of using the internet. There are so many ways to interact with the internet nowadays that being aware of the pitfalls should help youngsters stay safe online, and give their parents peace of mind.”

Top tips for parents include:

-       Stay up-to-date. Ask about your child’s new gadgets, apps and websites – it is important to be aware of new technologies and developments that your child may be using

-       Set boundaries. Treat the online world as you would the ‘real’ world – consider what or who they may see, share and communicate with, as well as how long they spend online

-       Know what connects to the internet and how. Today many technologies connect to the internet – including TVs and games consoles. Check how they are accessing the internet – if it is through a neighbour’s Wifi, your security settings may not be applied

-       Cyber-bullying can be very distressing and upsetting – talk to your child regularly about their experiences, both online and offline

Useful advice for parents can be found here: www.vodafone.com/parents

Useful advice for young people can be found here: www.thinkuknow.co.uk

For more information about staying safe online please visit www.cumbria.police.uk/onlinesafety

More internet safety advice can be found on the Government’s ‘Cyberstreet’ website: www.cyberstreetwise.com

Trans Monthly Get Together

Pop-up Youth Club opens 17 Feb

Thought for the Week

“In doing something, do it with love or never do it at all.” Mahatma Gandhi

Police urge Cumbrians to use social media responsibly

Cumbria Police are advising people to think before they post, as part of a week-long cybercrime campaign.

Since 2011 there have been 152 reports of crime to Cumbria Police which in some way relate to Facebook or Twitter. One of the most common crimes is ‘offences against the person’ – with 41 of these crimes in 2013 relating to Facebook in some way.

Social media is a positive part of everyday life for millions of people today but unfortunately people can use social media to harass, threaten and victimise other users.

Detective Superintendent Andrew Slattery explains:

“Social networking is a great resource, and now a common way to keep in touch with a large group of people. However it is sadly also rapidly becoming a target for would-be criminals.

“Due to the nature of the sites it is often easy to gather personal data from a profile and use this to commit fraud, identity theft, or harassment.

“Another key issue is people making themselves vulnerable to crime through posting personal information such as dates of holidays when they will be away from home or details of high value purchases.

“Some applications have unforeseen risks such as cyclists using GPS tracking to log and share their training rides, which inadvertently discloses the whereabouts of high value bicycles unless privacy settings are applied prudently.

“There are some simple steps people can take to protect themselves, including checking security settings, and being careful with what you post.

“Whilst social media allows us to share our views and opinions there are limits to what is acceptable and what could be construed as unlawful. Users should think before posting and ask themselves whether their post could be construed as bullying, racist, homophobic or offensive in any other way. Even if a post is meant to be humorous or light hearted it may be viewed by others who are offended or intimidated by it. If in doubt – don’t post it.”

Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner Richard Rhodes said:

“I welcome the Constabulary’s campaign aimed at raising awareness about the potential dangers in social networking.  It is really important that people take these simple steps to protect themselves. The young in particular should understand that an entry on Facebook now can stay there forever.”

Some important questions that people can ask to keep themselves safe while social networking are:

• Who is your audience going to be?
• Do you really know all your “friends”? - If not then consider your posts as being public.
• Are your privacy settings locked down enough?
• Do you understand who will be able to view your posts and profile?
• Will strangers be learning more about your personal life that you would want them to?
• Are you creating a security risk by tagging yourself in a location or posting pictures of your home or property?
• Are you putting your security or career at risk by posting details of your workplace or employer? – Check to see if your employer has a policy on the use of social media.
• Is my post acceptable or could it be interpreted as harassment, bullying or discriminatory in any way by another person?
• Am I happy for this post to be recorded permanently? – Even when a post is removed from a site, copies of it may have been recorded and may be re-posted at any time.

For more information about staying safe online please visit www.cumbria.police.uk/onlinesafety

More internet safety advice can be found on the Government’s ‘Cyberstreet’ website: www.cyberstreetwise.com

Cumbria Police launch cybercrime campaign

CUMBRIA POLICE LAUNCH CYBERCRIME CAMPAIGN

Cumbria Police launch a week-long campaign today (10^th February) to highlight the issue of cybercrime.

Tomorrow is Safer Internet Day and Cumbria Police are using the opportunity to encourage people to take simple steps to stay safe online.

Cybercrime is not necessarily a new type of crime, it is often simply traditional crimes such as harassment, sexual exploitation or fraud committed using a different method via the internet. Since 2011 there have been 152 reports of crime to Cumbria Police which in some way relate to Facebook or Twitter, as an example.

However, there are some new emerging threats in the form of denial of service attacks and hacking, which particularly impact on small to medium sized businesses in our communities, and it is accepted nationally that cybercrime is under-reported.

Detective Superintendent Andy Slattery explains:

“In this digital age we live in it is becoming increasingly important that people understand how to keep themselves safe on the internet. This week we aim to give people straightforward advice and guidance to protect themselves, their families and their businesses from internet crime.”

“Without taking simple precautions people can put themselves at risk of fraud, exploitation and other serious crimes. The internet and social media are a key part of everyday life – however it is important to remember that safety in the ‘online world’ is now just as important as safety in the ‘real world’.

“Children and young people are particularly vulnerable to some of the dangers of the internet. Sexual exploitation and cyberbullying are increasing concerns and I hope this campaign will encourage both parents and young people to make sure they are internet-savvy.”

Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner Richard Rhodes, in welcoming the initiative said:

“At a time when the internet is playing a central role in peoples’ day-to-day lives, it is essential that we all take the necessary precautions to help keep ourselves safe from this type of crime.  I would urge people to take heed of the Constabulary’s safety messages and advice.”

The campaign will focus on three key areas:

Tuesday – Social media

Wednesday – Risks for children and young people online

Thursday – Online fraud

Safety messages and advice will be sent out via the Cumbria Police Twitter and Facebook channels.

For more information about staying safe online please visit www.cumbria.police.uk/onlinesafety

More internet safety advice can be found on the Government’s ‘Cyberstreet’ website: www.cyberstreetwise.com

Help to improve the lives of older people in Barrow

Help to improve the lives of older people in Barrow

Do you live in Barrow? Are you aged 50 or over?

Do you live alone or provide care for someone for over 50 hours per week?

Would you like to have more social contact with other people and improve you social life?

If so you can help us to produce a bid for lottery funding to provide more social opportunities for isolated older people in Barrow. Please help us by completing a survey over the phone or on line.

Please call Sandra (she will call you back) on 015394 594537 or 07841 750841, or

e-mail s.varey@lancaster.ac.uk

Alternatively use this link to the on line survey http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/barrowinfurness

FREE holiday sports for young people this half term

Barrow Raiders at home - Sunday 9 Feb, 2pm

Police Commissioner agrees county-wide CCTV scheme

Commissioner Agrees County-Wide CCTV Scheme

Police and Crime Commissioner for Cumbria, Richard Rhodes, formally signed off the proposals for Cumbria-wide CCTV, at the Public Executive Board meeting today.

The approved scheme  will provide a sustainable, scaleable county-wide CCTV solution with up to 54 cameras across the county, proactively monitored by a dedicated central team based at Police Headquarters in Penrith in liaison with  other communications centre staff and local Community Policing Teams.

Richard Rhodes said: “I am delighted to be able to confirm that the scheme, which is a joint project between the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Cumbria Constabulary and the six District Councils of Eden,  Carlisle, Allerdale, Copeland, South Lakeland and Barrow, will now go ahead. 

“CCTV can play a vital role in delivering a safe and secure environment for people who live, work  and visit Cumbria, and supports crime prevention, reduces antisocial  behaviour, and crime and disorder.  It also has a significant impact on bringing offenders to justice, potentially reducing investigative time and freeing up officers. 

“I am always keen to work in partnership with other public and private sector partners, and this scheme is a great example of what can be achieved in Cumbria by working together.  It will deliver benefits to the local councils and savings for the police and wider Criminal Justice System by faster working and sharing of information.” 

Deputy Chief Constable Jeremy Graham said:

“It is great news that the CCTV scheme has now been approved. The new system will provide consistent and improved CCTV coverage across Cumbria.  CCTV acts as a deterrent for would-be criminals, helps track offenders, and gather evidence.

“I am looking forward to working closely with the Police and Crime Commissioner and local councils to provide an important tool to help solve crime and keep our local communities safe.”

'Who Let the Dads Out?' cooking skills for Dads

Victim Support - volunteers wanted

Victim Support

We are currently looking for volunteers to support victims and witnesses in the community and courts. The role can be split or combined and includes:

·         Supporting victims in the immediate aftermath of a crime, giving emotional support, information about compensation, liaising with other agencies, explaining criminal justice processes and help with form filling.

·         Supporting victims and witnesses at court whilst they give their evidence. This includes giving emotional support, liaising with court staff and explaining court procedures.

·         Raising awareness of Victim Support and the work that we do.

Full training and out of pocket expenses are provided. 

An enhanced DBS check is required.

For more information about becoming a volunteer with Victim Support please register your interest on our website http://www.victimsupport.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/how-to-apply or

email Cumbria.volunteering@victimsupport.org.uk or

call 01228 526688.

Thought for the Week

“Not he who has much is rich, but he who gives much.” Erich Fromm

Project Manager wanted at Signal Films

PROJECT MANAGER WANTED at Signal Films, Barrow

Status: Freelance, initial 12 Month Contract

Location: Barrow in Furness, Cumbria

Fees: In the region of £22-24,000 annually depending on experience

Signal Film and Media is an award winning film and digital media company with a reputation for both high quality professional short film production and a wide range of community engagement media projects. As a charity the organisation offers a year-round programme of film, media and arts activities from their base in the Cooke’s Studios, a new £2m creative media centre in a refurbished Grade II listed building in Barrow.

If you have a passion for film and media and current experience of delivering high quality, youth and community projects this is an exciting opportunity for you to further develop your skills and gain valuable experience as part of a small professional team. You will be expected to take a leading role in developing and delivering Signal’s extensive and highly acclaimed youth and community film and digital media programme.  Essential skills include project management and administration, use of creative IT, clear and appropriate communication and an ability to share your enthusiasm with others.

Deadline for receipt of completed applications: 12 noon, Monday 17^th February.

Interviews will take place in week beginning 3^rd March.

For further info contact info@signalfilmandmedia.co.uk

CADAS - free volunteer training starts 2 May

Family support drop-in service