Leeds United's made their first visit to Huise Park in search of the three points that will ensure a place in the League 1 play-offs. There is no place in the starting line-up for last Saturday's goal scorers David Prutton and Andy Hughes. Both sit on the bench, whilst injured striker Jermaine Beckford has failed to recover in time.
Yeovil's biggest ever crowd at Huise Park watched United make the best possible start when a goalmouth scramble in the 3rd minute ended with Dougie Freedman left-footed into the top-right of the goal from six yards, 1-0.
The Glovers, low in confidence, allowed United to dominate possession but still managed four or five chances to score. Freedman had two more chances to add to his goal for Leeds, Anthony Elding also had two chances on target, whilst Frazer Richardson and Jonathan Douglas had a chance apiece but the Whites failed to add to their score before the half-time whistle went.
The second half started with Yeovil showing more purpose and a shot from Antony Barry, in the 50th minute, from 25 yards, went wide.
Three minute later Bradley Johnson fired one in from 35 yards and the ball whistled only just over the bar.
Alan Sheehan was sent off in the 64th minute for a two-footed tackle on Yeovil's Lee Peltier. Frontman Elding was taken off in response and replaced by Hughes.
A trio of Yeovil corners were well defended by Leeds with 15 minutes to go. Johnson was replaced by Prutton in the 77th minute as the Glovers attempted to make their one-man advantage count.
With six minutes remaining Rui Marques came on for Neil Kilkenny.
A shot by Yeovil's Aiden Downes in the 87th minute brought a superb save by Casper Ankergran and Casper was there again one-minute later to catch a cross from Nathan Smith.
Four minutes of extra time seemed to last forever but United hung on to become the first club ever to reach the play-offs after starting with a points deduction. What a remarkable achievement!
Attendance 9527
Yeovil 0 Leeds United 1
Friday, 25 April 2008
Monday, 21 April 2008
Principal road maintenance
Redcar and Cleveland Council has programmed its annual four-week period of principal road maintenance across the Borough, with work involving gully and sign cleaning, grass cutting plus repairs to street lights and carriageways.
The work, which will be timed from 9am-3pm to avoid early morning and homeward bound traffic, starts on Monday, April 28, with a six-day schedule on the A171 from Swans Corner to Middlesbrough Road, South Bank, finishing on Tuesday, May 6.
The second phase, from Wednesday, May 7 to Tuesday, May 13, will tackle the A1053 Trunk Road and the A66 from the Wilton International site's West Gate roundabout to Cargo Fleet Lane roundabout.
The third phase, from Wednesday, May 14 to Friday, May 16, covers the A1085 Trunk Road, from the West Coatham Lane roundabout to Corus Lackenby. At the same time, Thursday, May 15 and Friday, May 16, work will be carried out on the A171 Birk Brow.
The final work schedule is on the A174 from Greystones roundabout to the Redcar Lane roundabout from Monday, May 19 to Thursday, May 22.
The work, which will be timed from 9am-3pm to avoid early morning and homeward bound traffic, starts on Monday, April 28, with a six-day schedule on the A171 from Swans Corner to Middlesbrough Road, South Bank, finishing on Tuesday, May 6.
The second phase, from Wednesday, May 7 to Tuesday, May 13, will tackle the A1053 Trunk Road and the A66 from the Wilton International site's West Gate roundabout to Cargo Fleet Lane roundabout.
The third phase, from Wednesday, May 14 to Friday, May 16, covers the A1085 Trunk Road, from the West Coatham Lane roundabout to Corus Lackenby. At the same time, Thursday, May 15 and Friday, May 16, work will be carried out on the A171 Birk Brow.
The final work schedule is on the A174 from Greystones roundabout to the Redcar Lane roundabout from Monday, May 19 to Thursday, May 22.
Saturday, 19 April 2008
Rampant Lions slayed by Super Leeds
Striker Anthony Elding was named in the starting line-up, alongside Dougie Freedman, for Leeds United's penultimate away match against Millwall at the New Den. The injured Jermaine Beckford was not included in the 16.
Jonny Howson, the young player who has made an enormous impact over the past few weeks, was named as captain and David Prutton was in for the suspended Jonathan Douglas.
United had slightly more possession in a windy first-half but Millwall had more chances on goal plus four corners to United's one. A shot from Elding in the seventh minute was tipped around the post. A 24th minute shot, from 20 yards, by Frazer Richardson sailed over the bar.
In a flurry of action just before half time, United tried to make a breakthrough. Elding tried a shot from 18 yards, in the 44th minute, that whipped over the bar and a header from Howson, in the first minute of injury time, was saved.
It was Millwall who came out for the second half full of fire with three chances on goal in the first five minutes. United's first chance in the second half came in the 57th minute when Freedam shot wide from 20 yards out. Freedman tried a 30 yard shot in the 63rd minute which was saved.
Then on 69 minutes David Prutton volleyed a curving 30 yard shot from the right to put United in front against the run of play, 0-1.
Elding was replaced by Andy Hughes in the 72nd minute and in the 79th minute Hughes was there to side-foot a cross from Bradley Johnson into the net, 0-2.
Peter Sweeney came on for Johnson and Freedman was replaced by Tresor Kandol in the 88th minute.
United came to the New Den and withstood fierce pressure from the Lions, who had far more chances on goal but failed to make them count.
Brighton's win against the Pools means Leeds are still not guaranteed a play-off spot but a win at Yeovil on Friday can book our place.
Attendance 13,395 (1892 Leeds)
Millwall 0 Leeds United 2
Jonny Howson, the young player who has made an enormous impact over the past few weeks, was named as captain and David Prutton was in for the suspended Jonathan Douglas.
United had slightly more possession in a windy first-half but Millwall had more chances on goal plus four corners to United's one. A shot from Elding in the seventh minute was tipped around the post. A 24th minute shot, from 20 yards, by Frazer Richardson sailed over the bar.
In a flurry of action just before half time, United tried to make a breakthrough. Elding tried a shot from 18 yards, in the 44th minute, that whipped over the bar and a header from Howson, in the first minute of injury time, was saved.
It was Millwall who came out for the second half full of fire with three chances on goal in the first five minutes. United's first chance in the second half came in the 57th minute when Freedam shot wide from 20 yards out. Freedman tried a 30 yard shot in the 63rd minute which was saved.
Then on 69 minutes David Prutton volleyed a curving 30 yard shot from the right to put United in front against the run of play, 0-1.
Elding was replaced by Andy Hughes in the 72nd minute and in the 79th minute Hughes was there to side-foot a cross from Bradley Johnson into the net, 0-2.
Peter Sweeney came on for Johnson and Freedman was replaced by Tresor Kandol in the 88th minute.
United came to the New Den and withstood fierce pressure from the Lions, who had far more chances on goal but failed to make them count.
Brighton's win against the Pools means Leeds are still not guaranteed a play-off spot but a win at Yeovil on Friday can book our place.
Attendance 13,395 (1892 Leeds)
Millwall 0 Leeds United 2
Tuesday, 15 April 2008
Terriers snatch win as Leeds lack fire at the Galpharm
Leeds United's first ever league game at the Galpharm Stadium started at rapid pace on a damp pitch.
The only change in the starting line-up from Saturday was Tresor Kandol replacing the injured Jermaine Beckford.
Huddersfield matched Leeds for possession and there were few chances for the Whites in the first half.
United were put on the back foot when Jonathan Douglas received his marching orders for a second yellow card in the 38th minute.
This woke the Terriers fans up and Town pressed their advantage in the hope of a goal before the break. Then a goal mouth incident on the stroke of half-time led to a second yellow card for Huddersfield's Jon Worthington which evened up the teams again.
David Prutton came on for Bradley Johnson in the 70th minute and Jonny Howson was replaced by Andy Hughes three minutes later.
A cross by Joe Skarz was headed into the net by Andy Holdsworth and Town were in front, 1-0.
Seb Carole replaced Kilkenny in the 83rd minute but even with five minutes of extra time United failed to make a breakthrough. Poor crosses and badly taken free-kicks did not help Leeds and the Terriers probably deserved it on the night.
The only good thing was that Walsall lost at home to Bristol Rovers so United retain their play-off position with the four point advantage intact but their game in hand used up.
United have not won at Huddersfield since 1963, although we have not been in the same league for much of the time.
Attendance 16,413
Huddersfield Town 1 Leeds United 0
The only change in the starting line-up from Saturday was Tresor Kandol replacing the injured Jermaine Beckford.
Huddersfield matched Leeds for possession and there were few chances for the Whites in the first half.
United were put on the back foot when Jonathan Douglas received his marching orders for a second yellow card in the 38th minute.
This woke the Terriers fans up and Town pressed their advantage in the hope of a goal before the break. Then a goal mouth incident on the stroke of half-time led to a second yellow card for Huddersfield's Jon Worthington which evened up the teams again.
David Prutton came on for Bradley Johnson in the 70th minute and Jonny Howson was replaced by Andy Hughes three minutes later.
A cross by Joe Skarz was headed into the net by Andy Holdsworth and Town were in front, 1-0.
Seb Carole replaced Kilkenny in the 83rd minute but even with five minutes of extra time United failed to make a breakthrough. Poor crosses and badly taken free-kicks did not help Leeds and the Terriers probably deserved it on the night.
The only good thing was that Walsall lost at home to Bristol Rovers so United retain their play-off position with the four point advantage intact but their game in hand used up.
United have not won at Huddersfield since 1963, although we have not been in the same league for much of the time.
Attendance 16,413
Huddersfield Town 1 Leeds United 0
Monday, 14 April 2008
Brand new boundary sign erected at Yedingham
33 years ago a group of Yorkshire Ridings Society members, which included Colin and Hilary Holt and John Dargan, erected an East Riding boundary sign on a building adjacent to the old road bridge at Yedingham, on the boundary of the North Riding and East Riding.
On Saturday 12th April 2008 Hilary Holt returned with a happy band of YRS members and friends to unveil a replacement sign as the original one was showing signs of age.
The sign, in the garden of Mr Robert Neil, can be seen from the new road bridge and was provided by the Society out of funds and donations.
Mr Neil, who was presented with a white rose bush by Roger Sewell, told members that the original owner of the property was Mr Alf Jackson, lived to the ripe old age of 103. He is reputed to have never spent a night outside the village and was the local pig killer, a reserved occupation.
On Saturday 12th April 2008 Hilary Holt returned with a happy band of YRS members and friends to unveil a replacement sign as the original one was showing signs of age.
The sign, in the garden of Mr Robert Neil, can be seen from the new road bridge and was provided by the Society out of funds and donations.
Mr Neil, who was presented with a white rose bush by Roger Sewell, told members that the original owner of the property was Mr Alf Jackson, lived to the ripe old age of 103. He is reputed to have never spent a night outside the village and was the local pig killer, a reserved occupation.
David and Lynda Russell (pictured far right above), of the Friends of Real Lancashire, travelled over from Rawthenstall for the unveiling on the banks of the River Derwent,.
After the ceremony members enjoyed lunch at the Providence pub, across the road.
Yedingham is on the Malton Road 9 miles north east of Malton.
Pictures by Roger & Chris Sewell.
Sunday, 13 April 2008
Freedman brace sinks the Blues
Is Dougie Freedman the new Bobby Collins?
The veteran Crystal Palace striker has certainly made a huge impact since he was brought in on loan at a time when Leeds United's season seemed to be falling apart. His influence on the team has been dramatic and reminds us of the great Bobby Collins who inspired Don Revie's young team in the early 1960's.
Dougie's deft touches and unselfish play have made a huge difference. His second-half brace of goals that sunk Carlisle could help ensure that United at least make the play-offs. Gary McAllister should consider making him skipper for the remaining games and seek to sign him for at least another season.
Dougie's goals and another from young Jonny Howson, who has also made a huge impact on the team since McAllister took charge, sent the Blues home pointless and knowing that their lofty automatic promotion position of second in the league is courtesy of the unfair 15-point penalty imposed on the Mighty Whites at the start of this season. The independent tribunal, which begins its deliberations on Wednesday, may change that but for now United must be content that having given their promotion rivals a 15-point start they are still there with a chance to get out of the doldrums at the first attempt.
A crowd of 28,530 watched a first-half that saw United gain more than 60% of the possession but fail to match the 16th minute goal by Carlisle's Scott Dobie and the Blues went in for the 0-1 up.
In a pulsating second-half Freedman evened up the score just four minutes in and Howson put United in front in the 58th minute only for Carlisle's Danny Graham to equalise two minutes later, 2-2.
Dougie Freedman fired Leeds back into the lead in the 69th minute with a volley from a re-bounded Neil Kilkenny fee-kick and United make in three wins on the trot, 3-2.
They can now look forward to the re-arranged derby match against the Terriers at Huddersfield on Tuesday night before another trip to face Millwall in the Lion's Den.
Leeds United 3 Carlisle 2
The veteran Crystal Palace striker has certainly made a huge impact since he was brought in on loan at a time when Leeds United's season seemed to be falling apart. His influence on the team has been dramatic and reminds us of the great Bobby Collins who inspired Don Revie's young team in the early 1960's.
Dougie's deft touches and unselfish play have made a huge difference. His second-half brace of goals that sunk Carlisle could help ensure that United at least make the play-offs. Gary McAllister should consider making him skipper for the remaining games and seek to sign him for at least another season.
Dougie's goals and another from young Jonny Howson, who has also made a huge impact on the team since McAllister took charge, sent the Blues home pointless and knowing that their lofty automatic promotion position of second in the league is courtesy of the unfair 15-point penalty imposed on the Mighty Whites at the start of this season. The independent tribunal, which begins its deliberations on Wednesday, may change that but for now United must be content that having given their promotion rivals a 15-point start they are still there with a chance to get out of the doldrums at the first attempt.
A crowd of 28,530 watched a first-half that saw United gain more than 60% of the possession but fail to match the 16th minute goal by Carlisle's Scott Dobie and the Blues went in for the 0-1 up.
In a pulsating second-half Freedman evened up the score just four minutes in and Howson put United in front in the 58th minute only for Carlisle's Danny Graham to equalise two minutes later, 2-2.
Dougie Freedman fired Leeds back into the lead in the 69th minute with a volley from a re-bounded Neil Kilkenny fee-kick and United make in three wins on the trot, 3-2.
They can now look forward to the re-arranged derby match against the Terriers at Huddersfield on Tuesday night before another trip to face Millwall in the Lion's Den.
Leeds United 3 Carlisle 2
Saturday, 5 April 2008
Super Leeds put two past Orient and move back into a play-off position
Leeds United's trip to Leyton Orient was another sell out
The O's were one of the clubs that voted to unfairly penalise United at the start of the season and their manager Martin Ling got in a strop when it was announced that the 15 points decision was going to arbitration.
The match started 15 minutes late, at a fast pace with Orient dominant. Leeds soon got their act together and began to match the O's for effort.
Neil Kilkenny fired in the first chance, in the seventh minute, which went wide. In the 12 minute Dougie Freedman had the ball in the net from a Bradley Johnson cross but was ruled offside.
On 16 minutes United won a free-kick, taken by Johnson, which was guided into the net by Paul Huntington, 0-1.
Orient keeper, Glenn Morris, did well to stop chances by Jonny Howson and Freedman in the 30th minute. United were on top with some fast flowing play and a good effort by Jermaine Beckford was fired wide. Then Morris was the Orient saviour again when Beckford latched on to a pass from Howson.
Five minutes into the second half Beckford got his 20th goal of the season when he whacked in a pass from Freedman, 0-2.
At this point interest was taken away by the Grand National. We had £5 on the winner Comply or Die (so did our lad Steven and our daughter Kelly) and we cheered it home all the way.
Beckford went off injured in the 64th minute and was replaced by Tresor Kandol. David Prutton came on for Johnson in the 73rd minute. Kilkenny made way for Andy Hughes in the 78th minute.
The Whites held out and move back into a play-off position in sixth place with a confident team performance.
Attendance 7602 (2735 Leeds).
Leyton Orient 0 Leeds United 2
The O's were one of the clubs that voted to unfairly penalise United at the start of the season and their manager Martin Ling got in a strop when it was announced that the 15 points decision was going to arbitration.
The match started 15 minutes late, at a fast pace with Orient dominant. Leeds soon got their act together and began to match the O's for effort.
Neil Kilkenny fired in the first chance, in the seventh minute, which went wide. In the 12 minute Dougie Freedman had the ball in the net from a Bradley Johnson cross but was ruled offside.
On 16 minutes United won a free-kick, taken by Johnson, which was guided into the net by Paul Huntington, 0-1.
Orient keeper, Glenn Morris, did well to stop chances by Jonny Howson and Freedman in the 30th minute. United were on top with some fast flowing play and a good effort by Jermaine Beckford was fired wide. Then Morris was the Orient saviour again when Beckford latched on to a pass from Howson.
Five minutes into the second half Beckford got his 20th goal of the season when he whacked in a pass from Freedman, 0-2.
At this point interest was taken away by the Grand National. We had £5 on the winner Comply or Die (so did our lad Steven and our daughter Kelly) and we cheered it home all the way.
Beckford went off injured in the 64th minute and was replaced by Tresor Kandol. David Prutton came on for Johnson in the 73rd minute. Kilkenny made way for Andy Hughes in the 78th minute.
The Whites held out and move back into a play-off position in sixth place with a confident team performance.
Attendance 7602 (2735 Leeds).
Leyton Orient 0 Leeds United 2
Friday, 4 April 2008
Tree team's big challenge
Redcar and Cleveland Council's Tree Team is ready for a mercy mission - to end the misery of a 75-foot sycamore in Kirkleatham Village, suffering from a serious fungal disease which is threatening its stability.
The Council's four-man team begin the two day operation on felling the tree, which is probably 100 years old, at 8.30am on Monday, 7th April.
The tree is situated next to Kirkleatham Museum, and staff at both the Museum and its neighbour, The Owl Centre, have been alerted to the work programme.
The felled tree will still have a use after-life, with its timber recycled for firewood and wood chip mulch.
The Council's four-man team begin the two day operation on felling the tree, which is probably 100 years old, at 8.30am on Monday, 7th April.
The tree is situated next to Kirkleatham Museum, and staff at both the Museum and its neighbour, The Owl Centre, have been alerted to the work programme.
The felled tree will still have a use after-life, with its timber recycled for firewood and wood chip mulch.
Thursday, 3 April 2008
Lib Dems question financial transparency
Posted by Chris:
At Redcar & Cleveland Council today I asked why Council Tax payers now have to pay over £25 million for “Other Services” this year.
In a letter sent out with Council Tax bills to explain where the money goes, “Other Services” now accounts for £25 million, up from £13 million last year. This makes it the second highest category of expenditure, with only Social Services higher (£36 million).
We need to know why the cost of these mysterious other services have rocketed so much. The whole thing looks to be out of control.
Even if Labour can explain it, there is still a problem. £25 million is much too high a figure to be represented in this way. It needs to be broken down more.
Labour promised to be open and transparent in their running of the Council. But this doesn’t look very transparent at all.
Local people have a right to know where their money is going.
The Labour Cabinet Member for Corporate Resources, Cllr Peter Scott, conceded that £25 million was a “large figure."
At Redcar & Cleveland Council today I asked why Council Tax payers now have to pay over £25 million for “Other Services” this year.
In a letter sent out with Council Tax bills to explain where the money goes, “Other Services” now accounts for £25 million, up from £13 million last year. This makes it the second highest category of expenditure, with only Social Services higher (£36 million).
We need to know why the cost of these mysterious other services have rocketed so much. The whole thing looks to be out of control.
Even if Labour can explain it, there is still a problem. £25 million is much too high a figure to be represented in this way. It needs to be broken down more.
Labour promised to be open and transparent in their running of the Council. But this doesn’t look very transparent at all.
Local people have a right to know where their money is going.
The Labour Cabinet Member for Corporate Resources, Cllr Peter Scott, conceded that £25 million was a “large figure."
Tuesday, 1 April 2008
Leeds get their revenge on Donny with a superb Sheehan free-kick
Leeds United made three changes for tonight's re-arranged game against Doncaster Rovers at the Keepmoat Stadium, watched by a record crowd. Paul Huntington, Jonathan Douglas and Frazer Richardson started in place of Rui Marques, David Prutton and Darren Kenton.
Donny started strongly and United worked hard to fend off two or three good chances. But on 20 minutes Douglas won a free-kick just outside the penalty box and Alan Sheehan sent in a superb curler to score his first goal for the Whites, 1-0.
Neil Kilkenny headed off the line from Rovers midfielder Jason Price in the 36th minute, as they looked for an equaliser but the fast flowing first half ended with United's lead intact.
Another chance by Price straight after the re-start went wide. A free kick by Gareth Roberts, soon afterwards, was deflected away from goal as Donny piled on the pressure.
United were looking to capitalise on the break as Rovers were the stronger going forward. Jonathan Howson came close twice and Jermaine Beckford once, in between frenetic Donny pressure.
Andy Hughes replaced Bradley Johnson in the 74th minute.
Frustrated Donny resorted to long balls in the last ten minutes but Leeds could cope. Douglas cleared the ball off the line in the last minute but that was the last chance Rovers had to save a point.
United got their revenge in a fiercely competed Yorkshire derby. They move back up to seventh in the League, one point from a play-off position and the points arbitration still to come.
Attendance 15,001 (3094 Leeds)
Donny started strongly and United worked hard to fend off two or three good chances. But on 20 minutes Douglas won a free-kick just outside the penalty box and Alan Sheehan sent in a superb curler to score his first goal for the Whites, 1-0.
Neil Kilkenny headed off the line from Rovers midfielder Jason Price in the 36th minute, as they looked for an equaliser but the fast flowing first half ended with United's lead intact.
Another chance by Price straight after the re-start went wide. A free kick by Gareth Roberts, soon afterwards, was deflected away from goal as Donny piled on the pressure.
United were looking to capitalise on the break as Rovers were the stronger going forward. Jonathan Howson came close twice and Jermaine Beckford once, in between frenetic Donny pressure.
Andy Hughes replaced Bradley Johnson in the 74th minute.
Frustrated Donny resorted to long balls in the last ten minutes but Leeds could cope. Douglas cleared the ball off the line in the last minute but that was the last chance Rovers had to save a point.
United got their revenge in a fiercely competed Yorkshire derby. They move back up to seventh in the League, one point from a play-off position and the points arbitration still to come.
Attendance 15,001 (3094 Leeds)
£90m school challenge
Redcar and Cleveland Council has a £90million challenge to shape the future of the Borough's young people - and is urging pupils, teachers, governors and parents to help the Authority make the right decisions.
The investment, to be spread across the Borough's 11 secondary schools and special schools, comes from the Government's Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme, with £10million earmarked for investment in ICT to underpin the development of 'personalised learning' for all students.
The Council's Cabinet Member for Education Councillor Ian Jeffrey said: "BSF is different from other school building initiatives - in terms of its ambition, scale and complexity. It is not simply a building programme - the key focus is on education transformation.
"The focus will be on schools providing a wide range of other services to local communities but we may need to reduce the size of schools to reflect future student numbers and there may be amalgamations or federations where schools may not be viable individually.
"Some schools may become academies or trusts and but all our plans will be geared towards providing excellent facilities and increasing attainment."
The Borough has already benefitted from a multi-million pound investment in education, dating back to November 23, 2001 when former Prime Minister Tony Blair officially opened the £7.7million Rye Hills School at Redcar.
New buildings have since been developed for Bydales Specialist Technology College at Marske, Sacred Heart RC Specialist Science College at Redcar, Gillbrook College at Normanby, Freebrough Specialist Engineering College at Brotton, while a new Huntcliff School at Saltburn is set to open in September.
Councillor Jeffrey said: "BSF will complete our plans for transformation by rebuilding or remodelling the remaining secondary and special schools that have not had investment so far.
"To shape our plans for BSF we must tackle the core issue of having fewer pupils: our secondary school population will drop from 9,700 to 8,000 over the next ten years. How do we change our school provision to match?"
The Borough is divided into three separate educational areas, each with option appraisals. The areas and the options are:
*Redcar and Marske, covering Bydales School, Redcar Community College, Rye Hills and Kirkleatham Hall Special School.
Option 1: Redevelop Redcar Community College for 750 pupils and relocate Kirkleatham Special School onto the same site.
Option 2: Extend Rye Hills and relocate Kirkleatham Special School on the Rye Hills site. Close Redcar Community College. Bydales remain unchanged.
*Eston and Nunthorpe, covering Eston Park, Gillbrook and Nunthorpe.
Option 1: Redevelop Nunthorpe for 1,300 pupils, redevelop Eston Park for 800 pupils, continue to assess the success of the collaborative sixth form. Have a trust to underpin the soft federation of schools in this collaborative.
Option 2: Rebuild Nunthorpe for 1,300 pupils, close Eston Park, close Gillbrook, re-open a 1,200 place school based on the Gillbrook building, possibly as an Academy.
*East Cleveland, covering Laurence Jackson, Freebrough, Huntcliff and Kilton Thorpe.
Option 1: Rebuild Laurence Jackson for a more appropriate size to ensure the number of surplus places is kept to a minimum - to rebuild for 1,000 places would be 200 places less than currently projected. Freebrough could be considered for an Academy or as a trust with the other schools on the same site. Freebrough is located on a single site with Kilton Thorpe Special School and St Peter's C of E Primary. Surplus accommodation may be used to the benefit of all the schools. Option of post 16-satellite provision at Freebrough could be examined.
The Council has also been working with the Diocese of Middlesbrough to look at the Catholic secondary schools - Sacred Heart at Redcar and St Peter's at South Bank, and is investigating three options - 1: Expand Sacred Heart to 900 places to accommodate all the baptised catholic learners in Redcar and Cleveland, 2: To have a Catholic academy on the St Peter's site, 3: To federate Sacred Heart and St Peter's.
The Council's Cabinet will debate the options at its meeting on Tuesday, April 15, activating a month-long period of consultation before any final decisions are taken. The consultation includes three drop-in sessions, all from 3pm-6pm. Dates and venues are:
Tuesday, April 22 at Redcar Community College
Wednesday, April 23 at Eston City Learning Centre
Thursday, April 24 at Laurence Jackson School, Guisborough.
There will be a variety of ways to give your views as well as more consultation sessions. A leaflet is being distributed to all parents via pupil mail which will contain a tear off response and people can respond by email.
The investment, to be spread across the Borough's 11 secondary schools and special schools, comes from the Government's Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme, with £10million earmarked for investment in ICT to underpin the development of 'personalised learning' for all students.
The Council's Cabinet Member for Education Councillor Ian Jeffrey said: "BSF is different from other school building initiatives - in terms of its ambition, scale and complexity. It is not simply a building programme - the key focus is on education transformation.
"The focus will be on schools providing a wide range of other services to local communities but we may need to reduce the size of schools to reflect future student numbers and there may be amalgamations or federations where schools may not be viable individually.
"Some schools may become academies or trusts and but all our plans will be geared towards providing excellent facilities and increasing attainment."
The Borough has already benefitted from a multi-million pound investment in education, dating back to November 23, 2001 when former Prime Minister Tony Blair officially opened the £7.7million Rye Hills School at Redcar.
New buildings have since been developed for Bydales Specialist Technology College at Marske, Sacred Heart RC Specialist Science College at Redcar, Gillbrook College at Normanby, Freebrough Specialist Engineering College at Brotton, while a new Huntcliff School at Saltburn is set to open in September.
Councillor Jeffrey said: "BSF will complete our plans for transformation by rebuilding or remodelling the remaining secondary and special schools that have not had investment so far.
"To shape our plans for BSF we must tackle the core issue of having fewer pupils: our secondary school population will drop from 9,700 to 8,000 over the next ten years. How do we change our school provision to match?"
The Borough is divided into three separate educational areas, each with option appraisals. The areas and the options are:
*Redcar and Marske, covering Bydales School, Redcar Community College, Rye Hills and Kirkleatham Hall Special School.
Option 1: Redevelop Redcar Community College for 750 pupils and relocate Kirkleatham Special School onto the same site.
Option 2: Extend Rye Hills and relocate Kirkleatham Special School on the Rye Hills site. Close Redcar Community College. Bydales remain unchanged.
*Eston and Nunthorpe, covering Eston Park, Gillbrook and Nunthorpe.
Option 1: Redevelop Nunthorpe for 1,300 pupils, redevelop Eston Park for 800 pupils, continue to assess the success of the collaborative sixth form. Have a trust to underpin the soft federation of schools in this collaborative.
Option 2: Rebuild Nunthorpe for 1,300 pupils, close Eston Park, close Gillbrook, re-open a 1,200 place school based on the Gillbrook building, possibly as an Academy.
*East Cleveland, covering Laurence Jackson, Freebrough, Huntcliff and Kilton Thorpe.
Option 1: Rebuild Laurence Jackson for a more appropriate size to ensure the number of surplus places is kept to a minimum - to rebuild for 1,000 places would be 200 places less than currently projected. Freebrough could be considered for an Academy or as a trust with the other schools on the same site. Freebrough is located on a single site with Kilton Thorpe Special School and St Peter's C of E Primary. Surplus accommodation may be used to the benefit of all the schools. Option of post 16-satellite provision at Freebrough could be examined.
The Council has also been working with the Diocese of Middlesbrough to look at the Catholic secondary schools - Sacred Heart at Redcar and St Peter's at South Bank, and is investigating three options - 1: Expand Sacred Heart to 900 places to accommodate all the baptised catholic learners in Redcar and Cleveland, 2: To have a Catholic academy on the St Peter's site, 3: To federate Sacred Heart and St Peter's.
The Council's Cabinet will debate the options at its meeting on Tuesday, April 15, activating a month-long period of consultation before any final decisions are taken. The consultation includes three drop-in sessions, all from 3pm-6pm. Dates and venues are:
Tuesday, April 22 at Redcar Community College
Wednesday, April 23 at Eston City Learning Centre
Thursday, April 24 at Laurence Jackson School, Guisborough.
There will be a variety of ways to give your views as well as more consultation sessions. A leaflet is being distributed to all parents via pupil mail which will contain a tear off response and people can respond by email.
Monday, 31 March 2008
Lib Dems condemn Labour hypocrisy over Post Offices
Posted by Chris:
On Thursday 3 April Liberal Democrats will use a motion to Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council to express dismay at the failure of local MPs to support local post offices.
Four post offices in the borough are under threat as part of the Labour Government’s closure programme, in Redcar (Park Avenue), Lazenby, Moorsholm and Charltons.
The Borough’s two Labour MPs, Vera Baird and Ashok Kumar, could have voted against the closures in Parliament on 19 March, but chose instead to back the Government’s closure of 2500 post offices nationally.
This is despite both having campaigned against closures locally.
Our Labour MPs have behaved despicably and hypocritically over post offices.
One minute they are campaigning in the constituency to save post offices, the next they are voting in Parliament to get rid of them. Local people will see their campaigns to save post offices for the hollow sham that they are.
Our MPs have failed in their duty to fight for local services for local people. This sort of cynical behaviour undermines trust in politicians generally. Our area deserves better representation.
On Thursday 3 April Liberal Democrats will use a motion to Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council to express dismay at the failure of local MPs to support local post offices.
Four post offices in the borough are under threat as part of the Labour Government’s closure programme, in Redcar (Park Avenue), Lazenby, Moorsholm and Charltons.
The Borough’s two Labour MPs, Vera Baird and Ashok Kumar, could have voted against the closures in Parliament on 19 March, but chose instead to back the Government’s closure of 2500 post offices nationally.
This is despite both having campaigned against closures locally.
Our Labour MPs have behaved despicably and hypocritically over post offices.
One minute they are campaigning in the constituency to save post offices, the next they are voting in Parliament to get rid of them. Local people will see their campaigns to save post offices for the hollow sham that they are.
Our MPs have failed in their duty to fight for local services for local people. This sort of cynical behaviour undermines trust in politicians generally. Our area deserves better representation.
Saturday, 29 March 2008
Seagulls grab a valuble point at Elland Road
An unchanged Leeds United team took on Brighton and Hove Albion at Elland Road.
Albion started the game, at Elland Road, in seventh position, two points and one place ahead of United. Both teams are within touching distance of a play-off position.
Dougie Freedman came close in the 13th minute with a shot from inside the penalty box that was cleared off the line.
Another chance for Freedman went wide in the 21st minute.
The Seagulls matched United for effort and the first half ended on equal terms but not before free-kicks and corners at both ends of the pitch as both teams had late chances but could not make them count.
United started the second half strongly and Jermaine Beckford came close with two early chances.
A long-range shot in the 56th minute from Jonathan Howson, who had three or four chances in the first half, was saved by Michel Kuipers in the Brighton goal.
Jonathan Douglas came on for Bradley Johnson, who was carrying a first half injury, in the 58th minute.
In the 61st minute a long ball from Casper Ankergran found Freedman who came close but was denied by Kuipers. Brighton quickly rallied and had the ball in the net only to have it disallowed for offside.
Neil Kilkenny was replaced by a third striker, Tresor Kandol, in the 76th minute as United pressed for that elusive goal. Anthony Elding came on for Freedman with 5 minutes to go.
Chances came at both ends of the pitch but United had the majority of them and were much the better side.
This was a game that United needed to win and must now pull something out of the bag at Doncaster on Tuesday if they want to maintain their push for a place in the play-offs.
Attendance 22,575.
Leeds United 0 Brighton and Hove Albion 0
Albion started the game, at Elland Road, in seventh position, two points and one place ahead of United. Both teams are within touching distance of a play-off position.
Dougie Freedman came close in the 13th minute with a shot from inside the penalty box that was cleared off the line.
Another chance for Freedman went wide in the 21st minute.
The Seagulls matched United for effort and the first half ended on equal terms but not before free-kicks and corners at both ends of the pitch as both teams had late chances but could not make them count.
United started the second half strongly and Jermaine Beckford came close with two early chances.
A long-range shot in the 56th minute from Jonathan Howson, who had three or four chances in the first half, was saved by Michel Kuipers in the Brighton goal.
Jonathan Douglas came on for Bradley Johnson, who was carrying a first half injury, in the 58th minute.
In the 61st minute a long ball from Casper Ankergran found Freedman who came close but was denied by Kuipers. Brighton quickly rallied and had the ball in the net only to have it disallowed for offside.
Neil Kilkenny was replaced by a third striker, Tresor Kandol, in the 76th minute as United pressed for that elusive goal. Anthony Elding came on for Freedman with 5 minutes to go.
Chances came at both ends of the pitch but United had the majority of them and were much the better side.
This was a game that United needed to win and must now pull something out of the bag at Doncaster on Tuesday if they want to maintain their push for a place in the play-offs.
Attendance 22,575.
Leeds United 0 Brighton and Hove Albion 0
Thursday, 27 March 2008
Lib Dems welcome latest court decision over Coatham Links
The decision by the High Court not to allow another Judicial Review of Redcar & Cleveland Council's decision to reject the second application for Village Green status on land that was formally part of a golf course (see pic above) has been welcomed by Liberal Democrats.
We welcome this decision as yet another Judicial Review would mean more delays and more public money wasted. It is time we told the Friends of Coatham Common that enough is enough. Their never ending attempts to subvert local democracy by using people who qualify for legal aid to run up enormous legal bills for the local taxpayers is outrageous.
Anybody can claim anything in court and spend months, even years, dragging things out, especially if you can get someone else to pay for it. In this case it is the taxpayer and this is unacceptable.
Every week this scheme is delayed the longer we have to wait for the two brand new swimming pools and the state of the art leisure facilities that this town so badly needs.
It puts at risk vital grant funding for a project that has everything that is needed to help boost the town centre and bring jobs and people into the town.
We welcome this decision as yet another Judicial Review would mean more delays and more public money wasted. It is time we told the Friends of Coatham Common that enough is enough. Their never ending attempts to subvert local democracy by using people who qualify for legal aid to run up enormous legal bills for the local taxpayers is outrageous.
Anybody can claim anything in court and spend months, even years, dragging things out, especially if you can get someone else to pay for it. In this case it is the taxpayer and this is unacceptable.
Every week this scheme is delayed the longer we have to wait for the two brand new swimming pools and the state of the art leisure facilities that this town so badly needs.
It puts at risk vital grant funding for a project that has everything that is needed to help boost the town centre and bring jobs and people into the town.
Saturday, 22 March 2008
Leeds United leapfrog the Saddlers with a Beckford double
Live on Sky Sports (a 5.20pm, start), Leeds United faced Walsall at Elland Road with just one change to the starting line-up, Alan Sheehan replacing the suspended Andy Hughes.
Using the long ball at every opportunity United looked good. In the second minute a long ball from Neil Kilkenny left Jermaine Beckford with only Clayton Ince, the Saddlers goalie, to beat but he shot wide. One minute later another chance for Beckford went wide.
Walsall, a good footballing side, were proving hard to break down.
A 25 yard shot from David Prutton, after 17 minutes, sailed over the bar.
From the start Dougie Freedman looked a class apart from the rest and he showed a real understanding with Beckford, making three clever flicks through to him in the first 20 minutes, that Becks failed to convert.
In the 22nd minute Prutton edged a good ball through to Becks but he could not make contact in front of goal.
Another good through ball from Kilkenny, in the 28th minute, found Beckford again, who sent the ball over the line from a very difficult angle close to the line, 1-0.
A 30-yard drive, in the 41st minute by Prutton forced a save by Ince.
The Whites started the second half with a chance by Jonathan Howson. Then with a minute gone Freedman twisted past a couple of defenders but his shot from just outside the box was saved by Ince. In the 53rd minute Freedman latched on to a cross from Prutton but his header was also saved by Ince.
The Saddlers best chance came in the 58th minute when striker Tommy Mooney fired over the bar from close range.
In the 64th minute Alan Sheehan sent in a pile driver of a free-kick from 25 yards. It was tipped over the bar for a corner that caused more chaos in the Walsall penalty box. United were well on top and cruising.
Kilkenny had a 30 yard shot on target in the 68th minute and Bradley Johnson came close when his header was cleared off the line.
In the 79th minute a through ball from Kilkenny was picked up outside the box by Beckford who ran in to score with two taps of the ball, 2-0.
Becks had a similar chance two minutes later which sailed over the bar.
Jonathan Douglas made a welcome return to first-team action when he replaced Johnson in the 82nd minute. Freedman walked off to a standing ovation, in the 90th minute, when he was replaced by Tresor Kandol.
In the final minute of injury time Howson made a run with the ball that covered half the length of the pitch. He fired in a shot that was tipped over the bar.
United ran in deserved winners with their best performance since before Christmas. They leapfrog the Saddlers to move up to eighth in the table and two points away from the play-offs.
Attendance 19,095.
Leeds United 2 Walsall 0
Using the long ball at every opportunity United looked good. In the second minute a long ball from Neil Kilkenny left Jermaine Beckford with only Clayton Ince, the Saddlers goalie, to beat but he shot wide. One minute later another chance for Beckford went wide.
Walsall, a good footballing side, were proving hard to break down.
A 25 yard shot from David Prutton, after 17 minutes, sailed over the bar.
From the start Dougie Freedman looked a class apart from the rest and he showed a real understanding with Beckford, making three clever flicks through to him in the first 20 minutes, that Becks failed to convert.
In the 22nd minute Prutton edged a good ball through to Becks but he could not make contact in front of goal.
Another good through ball from Kilkenny, in the 28th minute, found Beckford again, who sent the ball over the line from a very difficult angle close to the line, 1-0.
A 30-yard drive, in the 41st minute by Prutton forced a save by Ince.
The Whites started the second half with a chance by Jonathan Howson. Then with a minute gone Freedman twisted past a couple of defenders but his shot from just outside the box was saved by Ince. In the 53rd minute Freedman latched on to a cross from Prutton but his header was also saved by Ince.
The Saddlers best chance came in the 58th minute when striker Tommy Mooney fired over the bar from close range.
In the 64th minute Alan Sheehan sent in a pile driver of a free-kick from 25 yards. It was tipped over the bar for a corner that caused more chaos in the Walsall penalty box. United were well on top and cruising.
Kilkenny had a 30 yard shot on target in the 68th minute and Bradley Johnson came close when his header was cleared off the line.
In the 79th minute a through ball from Kilkenny was picked up outside the box by Beckford who ran in to score with two taps of the ball, 2-0.
Becks had a similar chance two minutes later which sailed over the bar.
Jonathan Douglas made a welcome return to first-team action when he replaced Johnson in the 82nd minute. Freedman walked off to a standing ovation, in the 90th minute, when he was replaced by Tresor Kandol.
In the final minute of injury time Howson made a run with the ball that covered half the length of the pitch. He fired in a shot that was tipped over the bar.
United ran in deserved winners with their best performance since before Christmas. They leapfrog the Saddlers to move up to eighth in the table and two points away from the play-offs.
Attendance 19,095.
Leeds United 2 Walsall 0
Thursday, 20 March 2008
Labour should put their money where their mouth is on Post Offices say Lib Dems
Posted by Chris:
Liberal Democrats on Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council are asking the ruling Labour bosses to look at what councils in Essex and London are doing to try to save post offices.
Four post offices in the borough are under threat as part of the Labour Government’s closure programme, in Redcar, Lazenby, Moorsholm and Charltons.
In Essex the County Council has stepped in and announced a £1.5 million plan to support post offices earmarked for closure. Negotiations are still taking place into how exactly the help will be given.
Meanwhile, other councils in Essex and London are looking at the possibility of offering post office services from council offices.
We have already seen Redcar’s Labour MP make a lot of noise over post office closures, only to vote for the closures in Parliament yesterday.
Now we will see whether Labour bosses at the Town Hall are hypocrites as well. Let’s see them take a proactive approach and look at ways in which the Council can help threatened post offices to stay open.
The Government Minister responsible has now told Post Office Ltd. that it must enter talks with councils wishing to try to save post offices. So the Labour council has no excuse for not fighting to retain these essential community services.
Liberal Democrats on Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council are asking the ruling Labour bosses to look at what councils in Essex and London are doing to try to save post offices.
Four post offices in the borough are under threat as part of the Labour Government’s closure programme, in Redcar, Lazenby, Moorsholm and Charltons.
In Essex the County Council has stepped in and announced a £1.5 million plan to support post offices earmarked for closure. Negotiations are still taking place into how exactly the help will be given.
Meanwhile, other councils in Essex and London are looking at the possibility of offering post office services from council offices.
We have already seen Redcar’s Labour MP make a lot of noise over post office closures, only to vote for the closures in Parliament yesterday.
Now we will see whether Labour bosses at the Town Hall are hypocrites as well. Let’s see them take a proactive approach and look at ways in which the Council can help threatened post offices to stay open.
The Government Minister responsible has now told Post Office Ltd. that it must enter talks with councils wishing to try to save post offices. So the Labour council has no excuse for not fighting to retain these essential community services.
LIB DEM WARD COUNCILLORS TOLD TO STAY AWAY FROM PRESS CALL
The Coatham Ward Councillors were invited by a Council Official to attend a photo call today at the re-opening of Coatham Boating Lake.
Councillors Josie Crawford and Irene Curr were happy to attend as invited because they had campaigned to have the fencing removed and the lake reopened for the summer.
Less than one hour before the event took place the same official rang to withdraw the invitation on the instructions of the Leader of the Council George Dunning.
Councillor Irene Curr was informed that the event was only for the Leader of the Council and his deputy.
Councillor Irene Curr said:
"We have persistently campaigned for the area to be reopened and the fencing removed. It has been our ambition to restore the boating lake to it's original 1930's state."
Councillor Josie Crawford said:
"Funding was put in place, under the Coalition, over one year ago, for major refurbishment work to the boating lake and surrounding area. We are delighted that it is at last going ahead"
Leader of the Lib Dem Group Councillor Chris Abbott said:
To invite the ward Councillors and then withdraw it is pathetic. They have worked hard to kept residents informed about progress on the site and have taken on the chin a lot of criticism that was not their fault."
Ian Swales Lib Dem Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Redcar said:
"So much for Councillor Dunning's claim to be open and transparent. The Ward Councillors were rightly invited then told they must not come. What is he frightened of?"
Councillors Josie Crawford and Irene Curr were happy to attend as invited because they had campaigned to have the fencing removed and the lake reopened for the summer.
Less than one hour before the event took place the same official rang to withdraw the invitation on the instructions of the Leader of the Council George Dunning.
Councillor Irene Curr was informed that the event was only for the Leader of the Council and his deputy.
Councillor Irene Curr said:
"We have persistently campaigned for the area to be reopened and the fencing removed. It has been our ambition to restore the boating lake to it's original 1930's state."
Councillor Josie Crawford said:
"Funding was put in place, under the Coalition, over one year ago, for major refurbishment work to the boating lake and surrounding area. We are delighted that it is at last going ahead"
Leader of the Lib Dem Group Councillor Chris Abbott said:
To invite the ward Councillors and then withdraw it is pathetic. They have worked hard to kept residents informed about progress on the site and have taken on the chin a lot of criticism that was not their fault."
Ian Swales Lib Dem Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Redcar said:
"So much for Councillor Dunning's claim to be open and transparent. The Ward Councillors were rightly invited then told they must not come. What is he frightened of?"
Wednesday, 19 March 2008
Vera Baird ducks out of chance to vote against Post Office closures
Redcar MP, Vera Baird was not amongst the 19 Labour members who voted to halt the closure of 2500 post offices according to a report by the BBC. How strange that she was parading through Lazenby at the weekend supposedly campaigning against the closures?
UPDATE: Vera Baird voted with the Government in support of closing 2500 post offices.
The 19 Labour rebels:
Diane Abbott (Hackney North & Stoke Newington)
Jeremy Corbyn (Islington North)
John Cummings (Easington)
Andrew Dismore (Hendon)
David Drew (Stroud)
Frank Field (Birkenhead)
Paul Flynn (Newport West)
John Grogan (Selby)
Kate Hoey (Vauxhall)
Kelvin Hopkins (Luton North)
John McDonnell (Hayes & Harlington)
Eric Martlew (Carlisle)
Alan Meale (Mansfield)
Gordon Prentice (Pendle)
Alan Simpson (Nottingham South)
Geraldine Smith (Morecambe & Lunesdale)
Sir Peter Soulsby (Leicester South)
David Taylor (Leicestershire North West)
Mike Wood (Batley & Spen)
Independent Labour MP Robert Wareing (Liverpool West Derby) also voted with the Tories.
UPDATE: Vera Baird voted with the Government in support of closing 2500 post offices.
The 19 Labour rebels:
Diane Abbott (Hackney North & Stoke Newington)
Jeremy Corbyn (Islington North)
John Cummings (Easington)
Andrew Dismore (Hendon)
David Drew (Stroud)
Frank Field (Birkenhead)
Paul Flynn (Newport West)
John Grogan (Selby)
Kate Hoey (Vauxhall)
Kelvin Hopkins (Luton North)
John McDonnell (Hayes & Harlington)
Eric Martlew (Carlisle)
Alan Meale (Mansfield)
Gordon Prentice (Pendle)
Alan Simpson (Nottingham South)
Geraldine Smith (Morecambe & Lunesdale)
Sir Peter Soulsby (Leicester South)
David Taylor (Leicestershire North West)
Mike Wood (Batley & Spen)
Independent Labour MP Robert Wareing (Liverpool West Derby) also voted with the Tories.
Lib Dem pressure gets boating lake reopened
Cllr Josie Crawford, Ian Swales, Cllr Irene CurrCoatham Boating Lake will be re-opened in time for Easter.
Labour controlled Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council have bowed to pressure from Coatham Ward Councillors Josie Crawford and Irene Curr who, along with Ian Swales, Lib Dem Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Redcar, have persistently campaigned for the area to be reopened and the fencing removed.
Funding was put in place, by the Lib Dem led Coalition that ran Redcar & Cleveland up to May last year, for major refurbishment work to the boating lake and surrounding area. The funding was separate from the Coatham Links development on the same site but the new Labour administration, for reasons known only to them, put a stop to the work and the lake has remained fenced off ever since.
The Coalition's plans were to restore the boating lake to it's original 1930's state. It is hoped that this remains the same under Labour.
Tuesday, 18 March 2008
Saltburn Smugglers Heritage Centre opens for the summer
Visitors can once again relive the sights, sounds and smells of the smuggling trade from over 200 years ago as a popular visitor attraction, run by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, reopens in Saltburn.
Set in authentic fishermen's cottages, the story of Smuggler King John Andrews is being brought to life in the three-room Saltburn Smugglers Heritage Centre, next to the Ship Inn, as it reopens in time for Easter on Good Friday, March 21.
Opening times are Wednesday to Sunday 10am until 6pm until May 31.
June 1 - June 30, Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 6pm.
July 1 -August 31, daily 10am -6pm.
September 1 - September 30, Wednesday - Sunday 10am - 6pm.
With last admission at 5.30pm.
Admission prices are: adult/oap's £1.95, children (over 5) £1.45 with a family rate for two adults and two children of £5.80.
There are reduced rates for pre-booked groups and schools. Call 01287 625252 for more details.
Set in authentic fishermen's cottages, the story of Smuggler King John Andrews is being brought to life in the three-room Saltburn Smugglers Heritage Centre, next to the Ship Inn, as it reopens in time for Easter on Good Friday, March 21.
Opening times are Wednesday to Sunday 10am until 6pm until May 31.
June 1 - June 30, Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 6pm.
July 1 -August 31, daily 10am -6pm.
September 1 - September 30, Wednesday - Sunday 10am - 6pm.
With last admission at 5.30pm.
Admission prices are: adult/oap's £1.95, children (over 5) £1.45 with a family rate for two adults and two children of £5.80.
There are reduced rates for pre-booked groups and schools. Call 01287 625252 for more details.
Monday, 17 March 2008
Government Minister campaigns against Government decision!
Vera Baird MP has been campaigning against the closure of Lazenby Post Office. She joins a long list of Labour Ministers campaigning locally against their own national decision to close 2,500 Post offices.
Ian Swales, the Liberal Democrats Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Redcar said:
"They should have listened to local people before taking the decision not afterwards.
"The Government is killing the post office network by withdrawing business such as TV Licenses and Car Tax, by restricting what they can do and by restricting their opening hours. Our MP should be campaigning in Parliament to save the Post office network not engaging in cynical local publicity stunts. Only the Liberal Democrats have firm plans to turn round the Post office business and rescue the network.
"Liberal Democrats in Redcar & Cleveland are campaigning against the closure of four post offices in the Borough and for the reopening of the post office in Roseberry Shopping Centre. Councillor Dunning, Leader of the Council, has been telling residents in Lazenby that the survival of their post office is the Council's priority. It seems he has already admitted defeat on the others. Labour's gimmicky campaign is phoney. They made the decision to close the post offices in the first place.
"We need all our post offices to survive and for plans to be put in place for them to prosper. Along with Fiona Hall MEP I have presented the first batch of 1000 signatures on our petition to save the post offices to Sarah Teather, MP Liberal Democrat Shadow Secretary of State for Business and Enterprise."
Sarah Teather MP, who is pictured (attached) receiving the petition from Ian Swales and Fiona Hall MEP said:
"The Government should be helping local Post Offices to develop their business rather than forcing more and more of them to go to the wall."
Ian Swales, the Liberal Democrats Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Redcar said:
"They should have listened to local people before taking the decision not afterwards.
"The Government is killing the post office network by withdrawing business such as TV Licenses and Car Tax, by restricting what they can do and by restricting their opening hours. Our MP should be campaigning in Parliament to save the Post office network not engaging in cynical local publicity stunts. Only the Liberal Democrats have firm plans to turn round the Post office business and rescue the network.
"Liberal Democrats in Redcar & Cleveland are campaigning against the closure of four post offices in the Borough and for the reopening of the post office in Roseberry Shopping Centre. Councillor Dunning, Leader of the Council, has been telling residents in Lazenby that the survival of their post office is the Council's priority. It seems he has already admitted defeat on the others. Labour's gimmicky campaign is phoney. They made the decision to close the post offices in the first place.
"We need all our post offices to survive and for plans to be put in place for them to prosper. Along with Fiona Hall MEP I have presented the first batch of 1000 signatures on our petition to save the post offices to Sarah Teather, MP Liberal Democrat Shadow Secretary of State for Business and Enterprise."
Sarah Teather MP, who is pictured (attached) receiving the petition from Ian Swales and Fiona Hall MEP said:
"The Government should be helping local Post Offices to develop their business rather than forcing more and more of them to go to the wall."
Sunday, 16 March 2008
Vale grab late equaliser as United squander lead
New loan striker, Dougie Freedman, making his first start for Leeds United, grabbed a brace of goals in the Potteries and Rui Marques got one but it was not enough in the end as bottom of the table Port Vale grabbed a late equaliser in the third minute of extra time.
Over 3500 United fans, which made up almost half the Vale Park crowd, were celebrating at half-time when the team went in 2-0 ahead.
Leeds should have had a penalty in the 38th minute but were awarded a corner instead. The corner, taken by Bradley Johnson, was converted by Marques from inside the box, 0-1.
Three minutes later Freedman slammed in his first goal for United to make it a perfect end to the first-half.
In the 62nd minute the referee awarded Vale a penalty after it appeared that Andy Hughes had handled the ball. Video evidence later showed that the ball had hit his head. Hughes desperately tried to explain this to the official as he pointed to the penalty spot. Vale's Paul Harsley converted from the spot and almost immediately afterwards Danny Whitaker put Vale on level terms, 2-2.
Freedman put United back in the lead with four minutes to go when he headed in a free-kick taken by Seb Carole, 2-3.
It looked like the mighty Whites were all set to return to Leeds with a well earned three points but in the third minute of extra-time Vale went level again when Luke Rogers tapped in a dramatic equaliser, 3-3.
As a result of United's shaky defence the team went from being one minute away from a play-off position down to 10th spot in the league and with only nine games left to play every point counts from now on.
Attendance 7908.
Port Vale 3 Leeds United 3
Over 3500 United fans, which made up almost half the Vale Park crowd, were celebrating at half-time when the team went in 2-0 ahead.
Leeds should have had a penalty in the 38th minute but were awarded a corner instead. The corner, taken by Bradley Johnson, was converted by Marques from inside the box, 0-1.
Three minutes later Freedman slammed in his first goal for United to make it a perfect end to the first-half.
In the 62nd minute the referee awarded Vale a penalty after it appeared that Andy Hughes had handled the ball. Video evidence later showed that the ball had hit his head. Hughes desperately tried to explain this to the official as he pointed to the penalty spot. Vale's Paul Harsley converted from the spot and almost immediately afterwards Danny Whitaker put Vale on level terms, 2-2.
Freedman put United back in the lead with four minutes to go when he headed in a free-kick taken by Seb Carole, 2-3.
It looked like the mighty Whites were all set to return to Leeds with a well earned three points but in the third minute of extra-time Vale went level again when Luke Rogers tapped in a dramatic equaliser, 3-3.
As a result of United's shaky defence the team went from being one minute away from a play-off position down to 10th spot in the league and with only nine games left to play every point counts from now on.
Attendance 7908.
Port Vale 3 Leeds United 3
Friday, 14 March 2008
Yorkshire Regiment to parade through Redcar
Plans are underway for hundreds of soldiers to invade Redcar as the Yorkshire Regiment prepares to exercise its newly transferred Freedom of the Borough.
More than 500 soldiers from the 2nd Battalion the Yorkshire Regiment will march through the town as they celebrate the Freedom of the Borough with guns held high, bayonets fixed, Colours flying and bands playing.
The celebrations being organised by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council with the Army will take place on Wednesday, June 18.
The Green Howards were officially awarded the Freedom of the Redcar in 1958. In 2006, they were amalgamated into the Yorkshire Regiment and the Council agreed to transfer the Freedom rights to the new Regiment.
The new Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland, who will be installed in May, will inspect the troops on the Esplanade and present the officer in charge, Lieutenant Colonel Simon Downey, with a new scroll before they all head off to Redcar Bowl for pie and peas washed down with beer.
"Which is the limit of the Labour Council's culinary taste" - say's Glynis.
More than 500 soldiers from the 2nd Battalion the Yorkshire Regiment will march through the town as they celebrate the Freedom of the Borough with guns held high, bayonets fixed, Colours flying and bands playing.
The celebrations being organised by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council with the Army will take place on Wednesday, June 18.
The Green Howards were officially awarded the Freedom of the Redcar in 1958. In 2006, they were amalgamated into the Yorkshire Regiment and the Council agreed to transfer the Freedom rights to the new Regiment.
The new Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland, who will be installed in May, will inspect the troops on the Esplanade and present the officer in charge, Lieutenant Colonel Simon Downey, with a new scroll before they all head off to Redcar Bowl for pie and peas washed down with beer.
"Which is the limit of the Labour Council's culinary taste" - say's Glynis.
Wednesday, 12 March 2008
Working Woodlands
You can find out how to improve wildlife habitats by joining in with a Working Woodlands event on Friday, March 14.
Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's Events Team is encouraging people to put on their working clothes and bring a packed lunch to help the "Friends of Errington Wood" with some practical tasks to improve the wildlife habitat from 10am until 4pm.
Anyone interested should meet at Errington Wood Picnic Area.
For more information contact the Eastern Area Countryside Officer on 01642 776911.
Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's Events Team is encouraging people to put on their working clothes and bring a packed lunch to help the "Friends of Errington Wood" with some practical tasks to improve the wildlife habitat from 10am until 4pm.
Anyone interested should meet at Errington Wood Picnic Area.
For more information contact the Eastern Area Countryside Officer on 01642 776911.
Tuesday, 11 March 2008
Two-goal Robins do the double over Leeds
Gary McAllister fielded an unchanged side for the third game running. At a windy Elland Road, Leeds United attempted to make it three wins in a row when they ran out to face lowly Cheltenham Town.
The Whites got off to a flyer when a 20-yard strike by Jermaine Beckford shot hit the upright after just over one minute from the start.
A packed Town midfield held up any further progress by Leeds for the next 20 minutes.
A cross by Bradley Johnson found the head of Tresor Kandol but the ball sailed over the bar on 22 minutes. Darren Kenton volleyed wide from 35 yards two minutes later. On the half hour Jonathan Howson tried a 30 yarder which sailed off to the right of the post.
The Robins seemed content to stifle United's attempts to make progress at the front and then in the 37th minute a mistake by Frazer Richardson led to an opportunity for Town's David Bird, who fired in from 20 yards, 0-1.
With a minute of normal time to go to in the first half a shot by Beckford flew over the bar from 12 yards. An injury time header from Lubomir Michalik landed on the roof of the net.
It was looking like Leeds were having a nightmare repeat of their trip to Whaddon Road in November when they dominated the game and lost out to a late Cheltenham goal against the run of play.
The Whites had more time to put things right this time and came out for the second half with a sense of urgency. A free kick by Bradley Johnson, one minute after the re-start, was saved by the Robin's goalie, Shane Higgs Then a minute later Johnson volleyed over the bar from 20 yards. In the 51st minute an overhead kick from Beckford sailed over the bar as Leeds kept up the pressure.
A 20-yard shot from Kandol was saved by Higgs in the 58th minute. Howson was replaced by striker Dougie Freedman on the hour. Then from nowhere, in the 62nd minute, disaster struck as Town's Alex Russell fired in from 18 yards to make it 0-2.
Leeds made a double substitution in the 70th minute, Anthony Elding and Andy Hughes came on for Richardson and Kandol.
With eight minutes remaining Beckford had the ball in the net but it was ruled offside. In the 85th minute some good build up play led to a cross from Johnson, which reached Elding who headed in from 12 yards to score is first goal for the club 1-2.
Leeds had little chance to even up the score as Cheltenham, languishing in the relegation zone, held on to their lead and went in winners against United for the second time this season.
Attendance 20,257
Leeds United 1 Cheltenham Town 2
The Whites got off to a flyer when a 20-yard strike by Jermaine Beckford shot hit the upright after just over one minute from the start.
A packed Town midfield held up any further progress by Leeds for the next 20 minutes.
A cross by Bradley Johnson found the head of Tresor Kandol but the ball sailed over the bar on 22 minutes. Darren Kenton volleyed wide from 35 yards two minutes later. On the half hour Jonathan Howson tried a 30 yarder which sailed off to the right of the post.
The Robins seemed content to stifle United's attempts to make progress at the front and then in the 37th minute a mistake by Frazer Richardson led to an opportunity for Town's David Bird, who fired in from 20 yards, 0-1.
With a minute of normal time to go to in the first half a shot by Beckford flew over the bar from 12 yards. An injury time header from Lubomir Michalik landed on the roof of the net.
It was looking like Leeds were having a nightmare repeat of their trip to Whaddon Road in November when they dominated the game and lost out to a late Cheltenham goal against the run of play.
The Whites had more time to put things right this time and came out for the second half with a sense of urgency. A free kick by Bradley Johnson, one minute after the re-start, was saved by the Robin's goalie, Shane Higgs Then a minute later Johnson volleyed over the bar from 20 yards. In the 51st minute an overhead kick from Beckford sailed over the bar as Leeds kept up the pressure.
A 20-yard shot from Kandol was saved by Higgs in the 58th minute. Howson was replaced by striker Dougie Freedman on the hour. Then from nowhere, in the 62nd minute, disaster struck as Town's Alex Russell fired in from 18 yards to make it 0-2.
Leeds made a double substitution in the 70th minute, Anthony Elding and Andy Hughes came on for Richardson and Kandol.
With eight minutes remaining Beckford had the ball in the net but it was ruled offside. In the 85th minute some good build up play led to a cross from Johnson, which reached Elding who headed in from 12 yards to score is first goal for the club 1-2.
Leeds had little chance to even up the score as Cheltenham, languishing in the relegation zone, held on to their lead and went in winners against United for the second time this season.
Attendance 20,257
Leeds United 1 Cheltenham Town 2
Sunday, 9 March 2008
Leeds midfielders find their scoring boots and pip the Cherries
With the exception of new loan signing Dougie Freedman on the subs bench, Leeds United fielded an unchanged side at Elland Road yesterday.
We listened to the match on Radio Leeds as we drove back from the Lib Dems Spring Conference in Liverpool.
The Cherries were in a confident mood as they faced United in strong winds and at times driving rain. They had beaten Pools 2-0 last Saturday and Manager Kevin Bond was a little over optomistic in his pre-match comments. This will have helped spur on United who were unbeaten in four.
Just 11 minutes into the game David Prutton sent in a ball from the right which caused a mix-up between a Cherries defender and on-loan goalie David Forde. Their collision allowed midfielder Bradley Johnson to gently tap a loose ball into the net and score his first goal for Leeds, 1-0.
Bournemouth had plenty of chances during the game but they could not make them count. As the rain began to lash down United's lead was doubled, in the 63rd minute, when another midfielder, Neil Kilkenny. collected as pass from Jonathan Howson and drilled in a shot from 18 yards. It was his first goal for the Whites, 0-2.
Kilkenny, who has recently recoved from injury, was replaced by Freedman in the 68th minute. Andy Hughes replaced Howson (84 mins) and Anthony Elding came on for Tresor Kandol (89 mins).
Whatever was the real cause of United's loss of form since Christmas seems to have been overcome as Gary McAllister got his first home win as manager and that makes it five games unbeaten.
Attendance 21,199
Leeds United 2 AFC Bournemouth 0
We listened to the match on Radio Leeds as we drove back from the Lib Dems Spring Conference in Liverpool.
The Cherries were in a confident mood as they faced United in strong winds and at times driving rain. They had beaten Pools 2-0 last Saturday and Manager Kevin Bond was a little over optomistic in his pre-match comments. This will have helped spur on United who were unbeaten in four.
Just 11 minutes into the game David Prutton sent in a ball from the right which caused a mix-up between a Cherries defender and on-loan goalie David Forde. Their collision allowed midfielder Bradley Johnson to gently tap a loose ball into the net and score his first goal for Leeds, 1-0.
Bournemouth had plenty of chances during the game but they could not make them count. As the rain began to lash down United's lead was doubled, in the 63rd minute, when another midfielder, Neil Kilkenny. collected as pass from Jonathan Howson and drilled in a shot from 18 yards. It was his first goal for the Whites, 0-2.
Kilkenny, who has recently recoved from injury, was replaced by Freedman in the 68th minute. Andy Hughes replaced Howson (84 mins) and Anthony Elding came on for Tresor Kandol (89 mins).
Whatever was the real cause of United's loss of form since Christmas seems to have been overcome as Gary McAllister got his first home win as manager and that makes it five games unbeaten.
Attendance 21,199
Leeds United 2 AFC Bournemouth 0
Wednesday, 5 March 2008
Leeds United call on all football fans to support their fight for justice
The independent arbitration against the Football League's imposition of a 15-point penalty on Leeds United will be heard during the week commencing April 14.
The points penalty has been hotly disputed by Leeds who claim they had followed the League's rules in paying off football debts first. This was challenged by Inland Revenue and it prevented United from coming out of administration with an approved Company Voluntary Arrangement, as required by League rules, though the threat of legal action by Inland Revenue was eventually dropped.
It is grossly unfair for United to have been deducted 15-points this season for something that was beyond their control. They had already suffered a 10-point penalty at the end of last season when they went into administration during the last week of the season. This clearly rankled with many in the Football League and the opportunity to make Leeds pay was taken with relish and ratified at a meeting of League Chairman, including those in League 1, who clearly benefit from the decision.
With Luton and Bournemouth now in administration it is likely that they too will have trouble satisfying the Inland Revenue with the League's rules about paying off football creditors first still in force.
United are calling on all football fans to support their fight for justice. On it's website the club say they have been overwhelmed with the support of fans from all clubs on an on-line petition to Prime Minister Gordon Brown. You can log on to the petition here.
United are calling on all football fans to support their fight for justice. On it's website the club say they have been overwhelmed with the support of fans from all clubs on an on-line petition to Prime Minister Gordon Brown. You can log on to the petition here.
Monday, 3 March 2008
Lib Dems Oppose “Excessive and Risky” 4.9% Council Tax Increase
Posted by Chris:
Liberal Democrat Councillors on Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council today opposed Labour’s budget which included an excessive 4.9% council tax increase, the biggest rise for years.
In addition Cleveland Fire Authority have set a 4.9% increase and Cleveland Police Authority have imposed a massive 9.97% increase.
Lib Dems are concerned that the Labour-run authority runs a serious risk of being “capped” by central government and having to re-bill residents.
The Local Government Minister, John Healey, has said that he expects council tax increases to be “substantially below 5%” or councils will face the risk of capping. There is no way in the world that 4.9% is substantially below 5%. It is highly irresponsible of Labour to take such a risk with public money.
Having to send out a new set of bills would cost the Council Taxpayer well over £100,000.
Speaking in the debate at today's meeting of the Borough Council Councillor Glyn Nightingale, Lib Dem Finance spokesperson, said:
“Under the Council’s financial plans there should only have been a 3.6% increase this year. But Labour have overspent and failed to be innovative in making efficiency savings. There is precious little real growth.”
“The people of Redcar & Cleveland will pay more and get less with this budget. What Labour calls “efficiencies” are really cuts and extra charges on the public.”
Liberal Democrat Councillors on Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council today opposed Labour’s budget which included an excessive 4.9% council tax increase, the biggest rise for years.
In addition Cleveland Fire Authority have set a 4.9% increase and Cleveland Police Authority have imposed a massive 9.97% increase.
Lib Dems are concerned that the Labour-run authority runs a serious risk of being “capped” by central government and having to re-bill residents.
The Local Government Minister, John Healey, has said that he expects council tax increases to be “substantially below 5%” or councils will face the risk of capping. There is no way in the world that 4.9% is substantially below 5%. It is highly irresponsible of Labour to take such a risk with public money.
Having to send out a new set of bills would cost the Council Taxpayer well over £100,000.
Speaking in the debate at today's meeting of the Borough Council Councillor Glyn Nightingale, Lib Dem Finance spokesperson, said:
“Under the Council’s financial plans there should only have been a 3.6% increase this year. But Labour have overspent and failed to be innovative in making efficiency savings. There is precious little real growth.”
“The people of Redcar & Cleveland will pay more and get less with this budget. What Labour calls “efficiencies” are really cuts and extra charges on the public.”
Saturday, 1 March 2008
Leeds back to winning ways as Kandol header beats the Robins
Swindon Town: P. Smith, Comminges, Kanyuka, Aljofree, Vincent, Allen, Peacock, Easton, Roberts, Cox, Paynter. Subs: Brezovan, McGovern, McNamee, Ifill, Ashikodi.
Leeds United: Ankergren, Kenton, Richardson, Michalik, Marques, Prutton, Kilkenny, Howson, Johnson, Beckford, Kandol. Subs: Lucas, Sheehan, Thompson Carole, Elding.
Referee: C. Foy.
New loan signing Steve O'Halloran limped off during the warm up and did not feature as expected. Frazer Richardson took his place in the team and Alan Sheehan was elevated to the subs bench. Leeds fans welcomed back midfielder Neil Kilkenny to the starting line-up at the County Ground, Swindon.
The first 20 minutes saw Swindon, a team low in confidence, getting the best out of a scrappy start to the match. Jermaine Beckford was booked on 23 minutes for unsporting behaviour.
The booking prompted a short spell of pressure from Leeds. A cross from David Prutton, in the 25th minute, found the head of Tresor Kandol who connected solidly and the ball went in from six yards out, 0-1.
It's a long time since Leeds fans saw the famous somersault but it looks like Tresor, with his second goal in successive game, has found his scoring head again and there may be more to come.
Another cross by Prutton in the 32nd minute but this time Bradley Johnson's header, also from six yards, went wide to the right.
Swindon came back into the game for the last 15 minutes of the first half and won three or four corners that put Leeds under pressure.
United remained on the back foot for the first 20 minutes of the second half, as the Robins, with the crowd behind them, looked for an equaliser.
Two inswinging corners by Prutton in the 70th minute began a spell of pressure by Leeds but Swindon got forward again soon afterwards and a shot from Christian Roberts was tipped round the post by Casper Ankergran, earning the Robins their 9th corner of the game.
Alan Thompson came on for Kilkenny in the 77th minute.
A shot by Jonathan Howson, from 25 yards, in the 80th minute, sailed off to the right and was only the 4th chance of the game for United.
The Robins had 11 good chances in the game. They had the Whites on the back foot for long spells but they failed to make their chances count and Gary McAllister got his first win as United's manager.
Attendance 13,217
Swindon Town 0 Leeds United 1.
Leeds United: Ankergren, Kenton, Richardson, Michalik, Marques, Prutton, Kilkenny, Howson, Johnson, Beckford, Kandol. Subs: Lucas, Sheehan, Thompson Carole, Elding.
Referee: C. Foy.
New loan signing Steve O'Halloran limped off during the warm up and did not feature as expected. Frazer Richardson took his place in the team and Alan Sheehan was elevated to the subs bench. Leeds fans welcomed back midfielder Neil Kilkenny to the starting line-up at the County Ground, Swindon.
The first 20 minutes saw Swindon, a team low in confidence, getting the best out of a scrappy start to the match. Jermaine Beckford was booked on 23 minutes for unsporting behaviour.
The booking prompted a short spell of pressure from Leeds. A cross from David Prutton, in the 25th minute, found the head of Tresor Kandol who connected solidly and the ball went in from six yards out, 0-1.
It's a long time since Leeds fans saw the famous somersault but it looks like Tresor, with his second goal in successive game, has found his scoring head again and there may be more to come.
Another cross by Prutton in the 32nd minute but this time Bradley Johnson's header, also from six yards, went wide to the right.
Swindon came back into the game for the last 15 minutes of the first half and won three or four corners that put Leeds under pressure.
United remained on the back foot for the first 20 minutes of the second half, as the Robins, with the crowd behind them, looked for an equaliser.
Two inswinging corners by Prutton in the 70th minute began a spell of pressure by Leeds but Swindon got forward again soon afterwards and a shot from Christian Roberts was tipped round the post by Casper Ankergran, earning the Robins their 9th corner of the game.
Alan Thompson came on for Kilkenny in the 77th minute.
A shot by Jonathan Howson, from 25 yards, in the 80th minute, sailed off to the right and was only the 4th chance of the game for United.
The Robins had 11 good chances in the game. They had the Whites on the back foot for long spells but they failed to make their chances count and Gary McAllister got his first win as United's manager.
Attendance 13,217
Swindon Town 0 Leeds United 1.
Friday, 29 February 2008
Changes to planning application process
Redcar and Cleveland Council is bringing in new Government guidelines ahead of schedule, which make the planning application process clearer and more efficient.
The Department for Communities and Local Government is launching 1APP, a Standard National Planning Application Form to replace all existing types of planning application forms within England.
With effect from April 6, 2008, this will be the only legal way of submitting a planning application within England, however there will be a transitional period until Tuesday, May 6.
The Council has now introduced 1APP therefore, if you are submitting a planning application, ensure you use the correct application form which will also include completion of the appropriate validation checklist containing all the necessary plans and documentation to validate your application.
1APP is primarily designed as an electronic form and is available online via the Planning Portal . These forms are also available to be downloaded from the Council's website in paper form. In addition, for those people without access to the internet, the forms can be obtained direct from the Council.
Further information regarding 1APP can be obtained by clicking on this link.
The Department for Communities and Local Government is launching 1APP, a Standard National Planning Application Form to replace all existing types of planning application forms within England.
With effect from April 6, 2008, this will be the only legal way of submitting a planning application within England, however there will be a transitional period until Tuesday, May 6.
The Council has now introduced 1APP therefore, if you are submitting a planning application, ensure you use the correct application form which will also include completion of the appropriate validation checklist containing all the necessary plans and documentation to validate your application.
1APP is primarily designed as an electronic form and is available online via the Planning Portal . These forms are also available to be downloaded from the Council's website in paper form. In addition, for those people without access to the internet, the forms can be obtained direct from the Council.
Further information regarding 1APP can be obtained by clicking on this link.
Falling tree injures two people at Saltburn
Redcar and Cleveland Council this afternoon closed two footpaths in Rift Wood in the Saltburn Valley after two people needed hospital treatment after a tree was blown down in the fierce winds.
The incident happened early on Friday afternoon on one of the paths through Rift Wood in the Saltburn Valley. One person was taken to hospital by ambulance and a second needed to be freed by the fire and rescue service and paramedics before being flown to hospital by the air ambulance.
The incident happened early on Friday afternoon on one of the paths through Rift Wood in the Saltburn Valley. One person was taken to hospital by ambulance and a second needed to be freed by the fire and rescue service and paramedics before being flown to hospital by the air ambulance.
Wednesday, 27 February 2008
A taste of the Continent comes to Redcar and Guisborough
A European invasion is coming.... to set up speciality Continental markets in Guisborough and Redcar next week.
Thirty traders from Belgium, Holland, Germany, France, Italy, Poland, Turkey and Spain will be selling their wares along Westgate, Guisborough on Thursday, March 6 and in front of Redcar's Town Clock from Friday, March 7 to Sunday, March 9.
Redcar and Cleveland Council is welcoming the chance to promote the market.
The markets, which will be trading from 10am until 6pm Thursday to Saturday and from 10am until 4pm on Sunday, feature a wide range of food and drinks, including parma ham, specialist sausages, pasta, olive oil, jam, sauces, Brittany biscuits, cheeses, paella, crepes, chocolate, wines, ciders and calvados.
There will also be stalls selling crafts, with wooden flowers, jewellery, porcelain, glass and clothing.
Thirty traders from Belgium, Holland, Germany, France, Italy, Poland, Turkey and Spain will be selling their wares along Westgate, Guisborough on Thursday, March 6 and in front of Redcar's Town Clock from Friday, March 7 to Sunday, March 9.
Redcar and Cleveland Council is welcoming the chance to promote the market.
The markets, which will be trading from 10am until 6pm Thursday to Saturday and from 10am until 4pm on Sunday, feature a wide range of food and drinks, including parma ham, specialist sausages, pasta, olive oil, jam, sauces, Brittany biscuits, cheeses, paella, crepes, chocolate, wines, ciders and calvados.
There will also be stalls selling crafts, with wooden flowers, jewellery, porcelain, glass and clothing.
Monday, 25 February 2008
Clegg - Let the under-fifties have their say on Europe
Speaking this morning at the Liberal Democrats’ headquarters, Nick Clegg said:
"Tomorrow we will be putting to Parliament our proposal for an in-out referendum on Britain’s future in the EU.
"The debate over Britain’s future in Europe has been poisoned for too long by a Labour Party that refuses to make the case for it, and an opportunistic Tory Party that actively seeks to undermine it.
"We need to draw the poison from that debate - to settle the matter one way or another.
"So today I am inviting the Labour and Conservative parties to join with me in calling for the referendum that will settle Britain’s European future - once and for all.
"When the government promised a referendum on the European Constitution, they promised a vote on all the changes to Europe since Britain joined the EEC, brought together in one constitutional text.
"That was the right thing to do.
"It was a bond of trust.
"And we supported it.
"Because we believe that the British people should have a real choice on all the developments in the EU over the past 30 years...
"...The European Union has brought peace and prosperity to its members over the past 50 years.
"No-one under the age of fifty in this country has had a direct say on this issue. Not me, not David Milliband, not David Cameron.
"So I say it’s time for a national debate and a national decision.
"Gordon Brown cannot push the referendum genie back into the bottle.
"And it’s critical that the British people are allowed to vote on the real issue at stake.
"That’s what our proposal would deliver."
"Tomorrow we will be putting to Parliament our proposal for an in-out referendum on Britain’s future in the EU.
"The debate over Britain’s future in Europe has been poisoned for too long by a Labour Party that refuses to make the case for it, and an opportunistic Tory Party that actively seeks to undermine it.
"We need to draw the poison from that debate - to settle the matter one way or another.
"So today I am inviting the Labour and Conservative parties to join with me in calling for the referendum that will settle Britain’s European future - once and for all.
"When the government promised a referendum on the European Constitution, they promised a vote on all the changes to Europe since Britain joined the EEC, brought together in one constitutional text.
"That was the right thing to do.
"It was a bond of trust.
"And we supported it.
"Because we believe that the British people should have a real choice on all the developments in the EU over the past 30 years...
"...The European Union has brought peace and prosperity to its members over the past 50 years.
"No-one under the age of fifty in this country has had a direct say on this issue. Not me, not David Milliband, not David Cameron.
"So I say it’s time for a national debate and a national decision.
"Gordon Brown cannot push the referendum genie back into the bottle.
"And it’s critical that the British people are allowed to vote on the real issue at stake.
"That’s what our proposal would deliver."
Saturday, 23 February 2008
Kandol snatches a late goal to secure a draw against the Alex
Leeds United: Ankergren, Kenton, Richardson, Michalik, Marques, Sheehan, Prutton, Howson, Sweeney, Kandol, Flo. Subs: Lucas, Huntington, Johnson, Carole, Elding.
Crewe Alexandra: Williams, Abbey, Baudet, O'Donnell, Boyle, Lunt, Gary Roberts, Schumacher, Gary Roberts, Maynard, Moore. Subs: Cox, O'Connor, Pope, Lowe, McCready.
Referee: Mike Pike.
An electric start by United with two chances on target in the first three minutes. After 59 seconds Tore Andre Flo fired in from 20 yards but the ball sailed over the bar. A shot by Alan Sheehan from 12 yards was blocked by Crewe's Daniel O'Donnell two minutes later.
As the game settled down the Whites remained in charge with more chances flying in but it was clear that Jermaine Beckford's sharpness in the penalty was being missed. Tresor Kandol doesn't yet have the same understanding with Flo that he has with Becks. Kandol has speed which veteran Flo can't match.
With two minutes to go in the first half a free kick taken by Kenny Lunt for Crewe had Casper Ankergren beaten but it hit the bar and United survived the only real chance that the Alex had in the first half.
But one minute 20 seconds after the re-start Crewe were ahead. Nicky Maynard drove in a low ball from 18 yards, 0-1.
Seb Carole came on for Darren Kenton in the 51st minute.
Leeds were still controlling the game and shots by David Putton and Fraser Richardson flew in but still they were no real threat up front.
Bradley Johnson came on for Peter Sweeney and Anthony Elding replaced Flo in the 65th minute.
Elding added a little bit more sharpness to the front-line but Crewe were seeing more of the ball and Leeds just did not look like scoring in this game.
But with less than five minutes to go, a free kick badly taken by Johnson, bounced around and somehow ended up at the feet of Carole, he crossed it to Kandol who headed in from the right of the 12 yard box and at long last he broke his goal drought, 1-1.
Six minutes of extra time saw Leeds battle on for the winner but the Alex held out and still we have to wait for that elusive first win for manager Gary McAllister.
Leeds worked hard and dominated the game but they are struggling up front and the play off's are getting harder and harder to reach,
Attendance 21,223.
Leeds United 1 Crewe Alexandra 1.
Crewe Alexandra: Williams, Abbey, Baudet, O'Donnell, Boyle, Lunt, Gary Roberts, Schumacher, Gary Roberts, Maynard, Moore. Subs: Cox, O'Connor, Pope, Lowe, McCready.
Referee: Mike Pike.
An electric start by United with two chances on target in the first three minutes. After 59 seconds Tore Andre Flo fired in from 20 yards but the ball sailed over the bar. A shot by Alan Sheehan from 12 yards was blocked by Crewe's Daniel O'Donnell two minutes later.
As the game settled down the Whites remained in charge with more chances flying in but it was clear that Jermaine Beckford's sharpness in the penalty was being missed. Tresor Kandol doesn't yet have the same understanding with Flo that he has with Becks. Kandol has speed which veteran Flo can't match.
With two minutes to go in the first half a free kick taken by Kenny Lunt for Crewe had Casper Ankergren beaten but it hit the bar and United survived the only real chance that the Alex had in the first half.
But one minute 20 seconds after the re-start Crewe were ahead. Nicky Maynard drove in a low ball from 18 yards, 0-1.
Seb Carole came on for Darren Kenton in the 51st minute.
Leeds were still controlling the game and shots by David Putton and Fraser Richardson flew in but still they were no real threat up front.
Bradley Johnson came on for Peter Sweeney and Anthony Elding replaced Flo in the 65th minute.
Elding added a little bit more sharpness to the front-line but Crewe were seeing more of the ball and Leeds just did not look like scoring in this game.
But with less than five minutes to go, a free kick badly taken by Johnson, bounced around and somehow ended up at the feet of Carole, he crossed it to Kandol who headed in from the right of the 12 yard box and at long last he broke his goal drought, 1-1.
Six minutes of extra time saw Leeds battle on for the winner but the Alex held out and still we have to wait for that elusive first win for manager Gary McAllister.
Leeds worked hard and dominated the game but they are struggling up front and the play off's are getting harder and harder to reach,
Attendance 21,223.
Leeds United 1 Crewe Alexandra 1.
Friday, 22 February 2008
Labour's wrecking amendment ruins debate on Post Office Closures
Pictured below L to R Cllr Glyn Nightingale, Ian Swales Lib Dem PPC
for Redcar, Cllr Eric Empsom campaigning at Lazenby Post Office
under threat from Labour Government cuts.
Yesterday we proposed a motion calling on the Council to campaign against proposals to close four Post offices in the Borough of Redcar & Cleveland it read:
This Council notes with concern that the following Post Office branches are proposed for closure as part of the Post Office Area Plan:
Charltons, Charltons, Saltburn-By-The-Sea.
Moorsholm, 44 High Street, Moorsholm, Saltburn-by-the-Sea.
Lazenby, Lazenby Post Office, 23 High Street, Lazenby, Middlesbrough.
Park Avenue, Park Avenue, Redcar.
And resolves to campaign vigorously against the closure of these important local facilities and to send in objections to Adrian Wales, Network Development Manager, c/o National Consultation Team, Freepost Consultation Team.
This Council further resolves to do all it can to assist in finding a suitable franchisee who is willing to take on a Post Office facility at Roseberry Shopping Centre, which is on the list of those to be retained by the Post Office.
Proposed by Councillor Chris Abbott
Seconded by Councillor Glynis Abbott
Unfortunately the debate was restricted to a very few minutes and the controlling Labour Group introduced a wrecking amendment which we could not support. This amendment was factually incorrect and deleted the important need to campaign for the restoration of the Post Office in the new Roseberry Shopping Centre at Redcar.
We had hoped the Council would be unanimous in supporting our motion but clearly the controlling Labour Group prefer to be mischievous and misleading rather than genuinely campaign against cuts their colleagues in the Labour Government have forced upon us all.
Monday, 18 February 2008
“Government incompetence has been costly to Northern Rock” – Ian Swales
Responding to the decision by the Government to nationalise Northern Rock, Ian Swales, Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Redcar constituency, said:“This decision is welcome but was also inevitable and should have been taken last year. Instead, Gordon Brown and Alistair Darling have been paralysed by their own indecision. They put off the only sensible course of action right until the very end. This is hardly a sensible way to run the Government.
“Had Labour followed the advice of Liberal Democrat Shadow Chancellor Vince Cable last year, the uncertainty that has been so damaging to Northern Rock and to the British economy would have been avoided.
“The Conservative proposal that Northern Rock should be put into administration and run down would be a disaster. Not only would this not get taxpayers money back any faster but it would be the one way to guarantee that every single job at the bank would be lost, most of them in the North East. Temporary nationalisation will not be easy for Northern Rock, but it at least offers hope that the bank can have a long-term future and eventually be sold when conditions are better.”
Ian Swales is the Liberal Democrats Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Redcar
Ian Swales calls for action on Boating Lake restoration
Pictured with Ian Swales are Coatham Ward Councillors Josie Crawford (left) & Irene Curr.With work delayed on the derelict boating lake for twelve months now and another summer season on the way Redcar is looking in a sorry state to welcome visitors.
Ian Swales, the Liberal Democrats Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Redcar, has called for action to be taken as soon as possible to begin work of the restoration of the Boating Lake, that was due to start in the Spring of 2007.
Ian Swales said: "Surely the delay cannot be allowed to go on much longer. The funding for this was made available over one year ago and it is not part of the planning permission wrangle that has befallen the Coatham Links scheme. We need to have something for our visitors and the Council needs to act quickly."
More fun to play in Locke Park, Redcar
It's more fun in the playground at Locke Park, Redcar!
A new multi-activity unit consisting of a slide, bridge and climbing ropes, designed for three to five year olds, has been installed in a project, organised by the Friends of Locke Park and Redcar and Cleveland Council.
The equipment, costing £12,300, has arrived thanks to a successful bid to Awards for All, a grant-making body providing small community-based grants, funded by the National Lottery, with the Council installing the new attraction.
Friends secretary Carolyn Farrance said: "We're a bit too old to use the equipment ourselves, but we know it's going to provide an awful lot of enjoyment for the families who visit the Park.
"We're only too pleased to be able to help. This piece of equipment adds to the items bought last year for the younger children using the playground area, all with the profits from our annual Gala Day, as well as help and support from a number of grant-making bodies and the Council."
A new multi-activity unit consisting of a slide, bridge and climbing ropes, designed for three to five year olds, has been installed in a project, organised by the Friends of Locke Park and Redcar and Cleveland Council.
The equipment, costing £12,300, has arrived thanks to a successful bid to Awards for All, a grant-making body providing small community-based grants, funded by the National Lottery, with the Council installing the new attraction.
Friends secretary Carolyn Farrance said: "We're a bit too old to use the equipment ourselves, but we know it's going to provide an awful lot of enjoyment for the families who visit the Park.
"We're only too pleased to be able to help. This piece of equipment adds to the items bought last year for the younger children using the playground area, all with the profits from our annual Gala Day, as well as help and support from a number of grant-making bodies and the Council."
Friday, 15 February 2008
£248,000 for more "gateway" art on the A66 at South Bank
Larger than lifesize models of a welder and a puddler, symbolising Redcar and Cleveland's industrial heritage, will form the final Gateway features in the South Tees Business Park from the A66.
Redcar and Cleveland Council starts work on site on Monday, February 18 for the scheme which will feature walls interlinked by bespoke railings outlining the Eston Hills with the welder and puddler in the foreground on the verge by the South Tees Business Centre, at the junction of Normanby Road.
The figures are being created by Stokesley artist Steve Tomlinson, working with Robinson Engineering at their foundry in Liverton Mines, to cast and galvanise the features which will be installed by Carillion Infrastructure Services, the Council's strategic partner. Work should be completed by the end of March.
Steve explained: "This is the last of the Gateway features I have been asked to work on and I felt it was important to show the hard work that's gone into developing the local industry."
The Gateway, costing £182,000 in total, has been funded jointly by Single Programme money through One NorthEast and the Tees Valley Partnership, with match funding from the Council and from Neighbourhood Renewal Fund (NRF).
Work will also get underway on six smaller feature walls in the South Tees Business Parks and Skippers Lane Industrial Estates costing £66,000 as part of the NRF South Tees Environment project.
The Council's Cabinet Member for Economic Development Councillor Mark Hannon said: "We're here to create jobs, to improve the quality of life for everyone. And these pieces of work can be signposts to our continuing efforts at regenerating the Borough."
Redcar and Cleveland Council starts work on site on Monday, February 18 for the scheme which will feature walls interlinked by bespoke railings outlining the Eston Hills with the welder and puddler in the foreground on the verge by the South Tees Business Centre, at the junction of Normanby Road.
The figures are being created by Stokesley artist Steve Tomlinson, working with Robinson Engineering at their foundry in Liverton Mines, to cast and galvanise the features which will be installed by Carillion Infrastructure Services, the Council's strategic partner. Work should be completed by the end of March.
Steve explained: "This is the last of the Gateway features I have been asked to work on and I felt it was important to show the hard work that's gone into developing the local industry."
The Gateway, costing £182,000 in total, has been funded jointly by Single Programme money through One NorthEast and the Tees Valley Partnership, with match funding from the Council and from Neighbourhood Renewal Fund (NRF).
Work will also get underway on six smaller feature walls in the South Tees Business Parks and Skippers Lane Industrial Estates costing £66,000 as part of the NRF South Tees Environment project.
The Council's Cabinet Member for Economic Development Councillor Mark Hannon said: "We're here to create jobs, to improve the quality of life for everyone. And these pieces of work can be signposts to our continuing efforts at regenerating the Borough."
Thursday, 14 February 2008
Keep Redcar's Post Offices Open
Pictured outside Park Avenue Post Office in Redcar, which is threatened with closure, along with Lazenby Post Office, under the Labour Government’s plans to axe 2500 post offices are left to right Cllr Glynis Abbott, Cllr Joyce Benbow, Cllr Chris Abbott, Cllr Mary Ovens and Lib Dem Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Redcar Ian Swales
Wednesday, 13 February 2008
Redcar Lib Dems leading the battle to stop Labour’s Post Office closures
North East Lib Dem Euro MEP Fiona Hall at the new Roseberry Shopping Centre, Redcar campaigning with, left to right, Ian Swales, Cllr Chris Abbott, Fiona Hall, Pat Swales, for the retention of the Post Office that had been situated in the now demolished Roseberry Square.
Ian said "2500 post offices face the axe across Britain. Here in Redcar constituency 2 more post offices face closure. Lazenby and Park Avenue, Redcar are in the latest list announced on the 12th February. The only bright spot is that Roseberry Square, Redcar remains on the retained list so we hope we have won the battle to get one reinstated there.
“Post offices play a vital role in our local communities. These closures will hit local people, especially older residents, very hard indeed.”
The Liberal Democrats are fighting the closures. They are gathering a petition locally to be presented at Downing Street.
“Labour and Conservative governments have decimated our post office network. Only the Liberal Democrats have a plan to save our local post offices and to open new post offices when needed, said Ian Swales.”
Tuesday, 12 February 2008
Points shared as a much improved Leeds battled it out with Forest
Leeds United: Ankergran, Kenton, Marques, Michalik, Sheehan, Hughes, Prutton, Howson, Johnson, Beckford, Kandol. Subs: Richardson, Sweeney, Elding, Flo, Lucas.
Nottingham Forest: Smith, Wilson, Breckin, Morgan, Chambers, McGugan, Cohen, Commons, Bennett, Hoskins, Tyson. Subs: Richardson, Perch, Holt, Clingan, Davies.
Referee: M. Holsey.
It was another fast-paced start, in front of a big and noisy Leeds crowd, with United hell bent on attacking the Forest goal but it was not until the 14th minute that they managed to get a shot on target. Jonathan Howson sent in a screamer from 25 yards but it was easily caught by Paul Smith in Forest's goal.
Forest were not making it easy for the Whites. David Johnson had a shot tipped round the post by Smith in the 34th minute and David Prutton had a shot from 30 yards cleared by Forest one minute later.
Jermaine Beckford made a great run on 41 minutes only to fluff his finish, which has been a feature of his game in recent weeks.
Three minutes into the second half Nathan Tyson found himself one on one with United goalkeeper, Casper Ankergran but his shot, from 12 yards missed.
A sustained period of pressure from Leeds resulted in a series of shots from Alan Sheehan, Howson and Prutton but Forest held on.
Disaster struck on 68 minutes, against the run of play, when a cross from Kris Commons provided a free header from 12 yards out, for Julian Bennett and Forest were in front 0-1.
Peter Sweeney replaced Bradley Johnson on 69 minutes and Prutton was replaced by Tore Andre Flo a minute later.
Beckford had a header from six yards cleared off the line by Ian Breckin as United piled on the pressure assisted by an anxious crowd who roared the Whites on.
With ten minutes to go and for the third time in the match, an appeal was made for a penalty after a foul on Kandol. This time it was granted. Beckford sent the Leeds fans into football heaven when he hammered the ball into the bottom right hand side of the net, 1-1.
Anthony Elding came on for Kandol as Leeds looked for that elusive winner but it didn't come and Forest held on for a draw.
This was more like it for Leeds they piled on the pressure against a strong side and it should give the lads a boost in confidence ready for the big one at Doncaster on Saturday.
Attendance 29,552.
Leeds United 1 Nottingham Forest 1
Nottingham Forest: Smith, Wilson, Breckin, Morgan, Chambers, McGugan, Cohen, Commons, Bennett, Hoskins, Tyson. Subs: Richardson, Perch, Holt, Clingan, Davies.
Referee: M. Holsey.
It was another fast-paced start, in front of a big and noisy Leeds crowd, with United hell bent on attacking the Forest goal but it was not until the 14th minute that they managed to get a shot on target. Jonathan Howson sent in a screamer from 25 yards but it was easily caught by Paul Smith in Forest's goal.
Forest were not making it easy for the Whites. David Johnson had a shot tipped round the post by Smith in the 34th minute and David Prutton had a shot from 30 yards cleared by Forest one minute later.
Jermaine Beckford made a great run on 41 minutes only to fluff his finish, which has been a feature of his game in recent weeks.
Three minutes into the second half Nathan Tyson found himself one on one with United goalkeeper, Casper Ankergran but his shot, from 12 yards missed.
A sustained period of pressure from Leeds resulted in a series of shots from Alan Sheehan, Howson and Prutton but Forest held on.
Disaster struck on 68 minutes, against the run of play, when a cross from Kris Commons provided a free header from 12 yards out, for Julian Bennett and Forest were in front 0-1.
Peter Sweeney replaced Bradley Johnson on 69 minutes and Prutton was replaced by Tore Andre Flo a minute later.
Beckford had a header from six yards cleared off the line by Ian Breckin as United piled on the pressure assisted by an anxious crowd who roared the Whites on.
With ten minutes to go and for the third time in the match, an appeal was made for a penalty after a foul on Kandol. This time it was granted. Beckford sent the Leeds fans into football heaven when he hammered the ball into the bottom right hand side of the net, 1-1.
Anthony Elding came on for Kandol as Leeds looked for that elusive winner but it didn't come and Forest held on for a draw.
This was more like it for Leeds they piled on the pressure against a strong side and it should give the lads a boost in confidence ready for the big one at Doncaster on Saturday.
Attendance 29,552.
Leeds United 1 Nottingham Forest 1
Monday, 11 February 2008
Atonement wins best film at the BAFTA's
Atonement, the wartime movie blockbuster, that had it's Dunkirk evacuation scenes made on Redcar seafront, won best film at last night's BAFTA film awards ceremony. The film, which had received 14 nominations, also won the award for Production Design.
Saturday, 9 February 2008
Cobblers fight back to force a draw at Sixfields
Northampton Town: Bunn, Crowe, Jackman, Little, Hughes, Johnson, Holt, Hayes, Gilligan, Hubertz, Burnell. Subs: Gyepes, Coke, Akinfenwa, Henderson, Dunn.
Leeds United: Ankergran, Kenton, Marques, Michalik, Sheehan, Prutton, Hughes, Howson, Johnson, Beckford, Kandol. Subs: Heath, Sweeney, Flo, Lucas, Elding.
Referee: Steve Tanner.
The fast flowing and exiciting first half was dominated by Leeds United who showed some of the determination and confidence they had started the season with but had lost in recent weeks.
Northampton Town, a much improved side since their visit to Elland Road on 5th January, took longer to settle down but improved as the half went on.
United went ahead after 37 minutes when Jonathan Howson volled in, from 12 yards, a pass by Bradley Johnson, 0-1.
It was United who started the second half slowly and it wasn't until the 69th minute when a chance came. Beckford shot wide from 20 yards.
Johnson, who had done little since his assist for Howson's goal was replaced by Peter Sweeney in the 70th minute.
Leeds were simply not trying and they paid the price in the 75th minute when Cobbler's substitute Adebayo Akinfenwa sent the ball into the back of the net from six yards, 1-1.
The goal fired up United and they began to pass the ball about with more effort. Tore Andre Flo came on for David Prutton in the 79th minute but a goal would not come. Sweeney had a 35 yard shot saved in the 88th minute and wasted another chance with a weak free kick from 25 yards in extra time.
With only 15 games to go, United need to play the full 90 minutes not just the first 45. Gary McAllister now has until Tuesday, when United face Nottingham Forest at Elland Road, to get the promotion challenge back on track. The leaders are getting further and further away.
Attendance 7260 (1268 Leeds).
Northampton Town 1 Leeds United 1
Leeds United: Ankergran, Kenton, Marques, Michalik, Sheehan, Prutton, Hughes, Howson, Johnson, Beckford, Kandol. Subs: Heath, Sweeney, Flo, Lucas, Elding.
Referee: Steve Tanner.
The fast flowing and exiciting first half was dominated by Leeds United who showed some of the determination and confidence they had started the season with but had lost in recent weeks.
Northampton Town, a much improved side since their visit to Elland Road on 5th January, took longer to settle down but improved as the half went on.
United went ahead after 37 minutes when Jonathan Howson volled in, from 12 yards, a pass by Bradley Johnson, 0-1.
It was United who started the second half slowly and it wasn't until the 69th minute when a chance came. Beckford shot wide from 20 yards.
Johnson, who had done little since his assist for Howson's goal was replaced by Peter Sweeney in the 70th minute.
Leeds were simply not trying and they paid the price in the 75th minute when Cobbler's substitute Adebayo Akinfenwa sent the ball into the back of the net from six yards, 1-1.
The goal fired up United and they began to pass the ball about with more effort. Tore Andre Flo came on for David Prutton in the 79th minute but a goal would not come. Sweeney had a 35 yard shot saved in the 88th minute and wasted another chance with a weak free kick from 25 yards in extra time.
With only 15 games to go, United need to play the full 90 minutes not just the first 45. Gary McAllister now has until Tuesday, when United face Nottingham Forest at Elland Road, to get the promotion challenge back on track. The leaders are getting further and further away.
Attendance 7260 (1268 Leeds).
Northampton Town 1 Leeds United 1
Friday, 8 February 2008
I was there the last time Leeds United met the Cobblers
Posted by Chris:
As Leeds United prepare to face the Cobblers at Sixfields tomorrow it is amazing to think that it is 42 years since the last time they visited Northamton Town.
It also makes me feel old as I remember both games.
Back in 1965/66 the Cobblers completed a remarkable climb to the top division and spent that season amongst the elite only to slip straight back down to the basement again in, I think, successive seasons.
Why I remember certain things about the two games against Cobblers that season I don't know. I was a regular at games both home and away before and for many years afterwards but these two stick in my memory more than some of the bigger games we played at the time.
The first match, at Elland Road, was on 16th October 1965. I was 15 at the time and used to spend each Friday and Saturday night baby sitting for my uncle and aunt at Boroughbridge. My uncle was working, I think for Wimpy at the time, on a building site on the outskirts of Leeds and he dropped me off on the morning of the match.
I remember hanging around Leeds city centre before it was time to go to the match. I stood in the good old Scratching Shed and watched the Whites thrash the Cobblers 6-1.
The return match took place at the County Ground on March 5th 1966. I can't remember how I got there, probably on 'Tod' Pynes Coach from Starbeck, but we stood with all the Leeds fans in a covered stand, to the right of the players tunnel, if your looking out onto the pitch. The ground was three sided but they had a temporary open terrace on the side that would normally be the cricket pitch.
Leeds were riding high and the Town were battling against relegation but as we have come to expect, in situations like that, the struggling Cobblers side won 2-1.
I have only been to Northampton twice since then and both have included visit to the Cobbler's ground.
In the early 1990's I attended the memorable final meeting of the Liberal Party Council, held at Northampton, when we finally agreed the terms to merge with the SDP. I remember this was the first time and only time I ever drew a response from David Steel to some critical comment I made about his leadership during the negotiations.
During the lunch break I took our lad Mark, who came with me and played football all day outside the meeting hall with some other delegates kids, to the County Ground to have a look at the stadium.
About six or seven years ago Glynis and I attended a seminar, held in Northampton one Monday and we took the opportunity to take the caravan. We spent the previous weekend at a lovely site, near the town, that was surrounded by a river or canal and a series of commercial fishing ponds. If anyone knows where this was please let us know because we can't remember and would like to go again sometime. There was a huge viaduct.
During that weekend we went to have a look at the new Sixfields Stadium and I remember being able to see right inside from a nearby hill. We also had a look around the impressive Rushdon & Diamonds ground as well.
As Leeds United prepare to face the Cobblers at Sixfields tomorrow it is amazing to think that it is 42 years since the last time they visited Northamton Town.
It also makes me feel old as I remember both games.
Back in 1965/66 the Cobblers completed a remarkable climb to the top division and spent that season amongst the elite only to slip straight back down to the basement again in, I think, successive seasons.
Why I remember certain things about the two games against Cobblers that season I don't know. I was a regular at games both home and away before and for many years afterwards but these two stick in my memory more than some of the bigger games we played at the time.
The first match, at Elland Road, was on 16th October 1965. I was 15 at the time and used to spend each Friday and Saturday night baby sitting for my uncle and aunt at Boroughbridge. My uncle was working, I think for Wimpy at the time, on a building site on the outskirts of Leeds and he dropped me off on the morning of the match.
I remember hanging around Leeds city centre before it was time to go to the match. I stood in the good old Scratching Shed and watched the Whites thrash the Cobblers 6-1.
The return match took place at the County Ground on March 5th 1966. I can't remember how I got there, probably on 'Tod' Pynes Coach from Starbeck, but we stood with all the Leeds fans in a covered stand, to the right of the players tunnel, if your looking out onto the pitch. The ground was three sided but they had a temporary open terrace on the side that would normally be the cricket pitch.
Leeds were riding high and the Town were battling against relegation but as we have come to expect, in situations like that, the struggling Cobblers side won 2-1.
I have only been to Northampton twice since then and both have included visit to the Cobbler's ground.
In the early 1990's I attended the memorable final meeting of the Liberal Party Council, held at Northampton, when we finally agreed the terms to merge with the SDP. I remember this was the first time and only time I ever drew a response from David Steel to some critical comment I made about his leadership during the negotiations.
During the lunch break I took our lad Mark, who came with me and played football all day outside the meeting hall with some other delegates kids, to the County Ground to have a look at the stadium.
About six or seven years ago Glynis and I attended a seminar, held in Northampton one Monday and we took the opportunity to take the caravan. We spent the previous weekend at a lovely site, near the town, that was surrounded by a river or canal and a series of commercial fishing ponds. If anyone knows where this was please let us know because we can't remember and would like to go again sometime. There was a huge viaduct.
During that weekend we went to have a look at the new Sixfields Stadium and I remember being able to see right inside from a nearby hill. We also had a look around the impressive Rushdon & Diamonds ground as well.
Monsters and road safety bring half term fun at the library
Redcar and Cleveland Council is organising half term activites for children, ranging from monster storytelling to road safety, in branch libraries across the Borough
The Community Animateurs, a group of three storytellers, employed by Redcar and Cleveland College, and library staff will be sharing the workload of entertaining youngsters with tales from the five popular books of the Spiderwick Chronicles and organising craft activities to make masks, magical maps and trading cards.
The Council's Road Safety Officer Roy Morris will also be bringing road safety mascot Spike to a series of fun sessions, with more stories and craft activities.
All sessions are free and open to children of all ages. Under eights must be accompanied by an adult. Dates, venues and activities are:
Monday, February 18: Brotton - road safety, 10.30am-11.30am, Saltburn - Spiderwick, 2pm-3pm, Dormanstown - road safety, 2.30pm-3.30pm.
Tuesday, February 19: Ormesby - Spiderwick, 10.30am-11.30am, Grangetown - road safety, 10.30am-11.30am, South Bank - road safety, 2pm-3pm.
Wednesday, February 20: Guisborough - Spiderwick, 10.30am-11.30am, Dormanstown - Spiderwick, 2pm-3pm, Laburnum Road - Spiderwick, 2pm-3pm.
Thursday, February 21: Marske - Spiderwick, 10am-11am, Redcar Central - monster story telling, 10.30am-11.30am, Spiderwick, 2pm-3pm, Loftus - road safety, 10.30am-11.30am, Skelton - road safety, 2pm-3pm.
Friday, February 22: Brotton - Spiderwick, 10.30am-11.30pm, Roseberry - Spiderwick, 2pm-3pm.
The Community Animateurs, a group of three storytellers, employed by Redcar and Cleveland College, and library staff will be sharing the workload of entertaining youngsters with tales from the five popular books of the Spiderwick Chronicles and organising craft activities to make masks, magical maps and trading cards.
The Council's Road Safety Officer Roy Morris will also be bringing road safety mascot Spike to a series of fun sessions, with more stories and craft activities.
All sessions are free and open to children of all ages. Under eights must be accompanied by an adult. Dates, venues and activities are:
Monday, February 18: Brotton - road safety, 10.30am-11.30am, Saltburn - Spiderwick, 2pm-3pm, Dormanstown - road safety, 2.30pm-3.30pm.
Tuesday, February 19: Ormesby - Spiderwick, 10.30am-11.30am, Grangetown - road safety, 10.30am-11.30am, South Bank - road safety, 2pm-3pm.
Wednesday, February 20: Guisborough - Spiderwick, 10.30am-11.30am, Dormanstown - Spiderwick, 2pm-3pm, Laburnum Road - Spiderwick, 2pm-3pm.
Thursday, February 21: Marske - Spiderwick, 10am-11am, Redcar Central - monster story telling, 10.30am-11.30am, Spiderwick, 2pm-3pm, Loftus - road safety, 10.30am-11.30am, Skelton - road safety, 2pm-3pm.
Friday, February 22: Brotton - Spiderwick, 10.30am-11.30pm, Roseberry - Spiderwick, 2pm-3pm.
Thursday, 7 February 2008
Call on Labour MP to explain support for poor deal for local Police and Fire Services
Liberal Democrats in Redcar and Cleveland are calling on Vera Baird MP to explain why she backed cash settlements for Cleveland Police and Fire Services that are the lowest in the country.
Vera Baird voted for Cleveland Police to have a rise of only 2.5%, the lowest given to any force. She also supported a rise of only 1% for Cleveland Fire Service, again the lowest.
“The low rise in the amount of money from central government to help pay towards Police and Fire costs will mean a tight year ahead for local services,” said Ian Swales, Liberal Democrats Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Redcar. "The rises are less than inflation. This will no doubt mean cuts in services and higher Council Tax bills. It is a case of pay more and get less under Labour."
Vera Baird voted for Cleveland Police to have a rise of only 2.5%, the lowest given to any force. She also supported a rise of only 1% for Cleveland Fire Service, again the lowest.
“The low rise in the amount of money from central government to help pay towards Police and Fire costs will mean a tight year ahead for local services,” said Ian Swales, Liberal Democrats Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Redcar. "The rises are less than inflation. This will no doubt mean cuts in services and higher Council Tax bills. It is a case of pay more and get less under Labour."
Local businesses must go for gold - Ian Swales
Liberal Democrat campaigner Ian Swales is encouraging all local businesses to boost their business by logging onto the London 2012 website.
Ian Swales said, “Although over 500 contracts have already been signed by the Olympic Delivery Authority, the majority of contracts have yet to be awarded. So far this area has been missing out. Redcar and Cleveland businesses must make sure they get their fair share of these contracts."
Businesses are now able to register on the 2012 website so that they can be made aware of opportunities for contracts as well as the chance to access and compete for them.
For more information on the opportunities available as well as a link to register your business, visit the London 2012 website at the following link:
Ian Swales is the Liberal Democrats Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Redcar.
Ian Swales said, “Although over 500 contracts have already been signed by the Olympic Delivery Authority, the majority of contracts have yet to be awarded. So far this area has been missing out. Redcar and Cleveland businesses must make sure they get their fair share of these contracts."
Businesses are now able to register on the 2012 website so that they can be made aware of opportunities for contracts as well as the chance to access and compete for them.
For more information on the opportunities available as well as a link to register your business, visit the London 2012 website at the following link:
Ian Swales is the Liberal Democrats Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Redcar.
Council retains four star status
Redcar and Cleveland Council has today received a four-star rating from the Audit Commission's Comprehensive Performance Assessment for the third consecutive year.
The Council's overall rating was four stars, with an 'improving well' assessment for its Direction of Travel.
The CPA results are available on the Audit Commission's website.
The Council's overall rating was four stars, with an 'improving well' assessment for its Direction of Travel.
The CPA results are available on the Audit Commission's website.
Wednesday, 6 February 2008
Museum fun for children going back to Tudor times
Children can step back in time for a series of half term activities linked in with the Tudor Lives exhibition at Kirkleatham Museum, Redcar.
Throughout the holiday, from Saturday, February 16 to Sunday, February 24, children can be Tudor detectives, dressing up in costumes, then explore the exhibition to solve clues and complete a quiz.
From Tuesday, February 19, you can design your own coat of arms, just like all the noble Tudor families, with shield shapes, paper and pictures in the exhibition's craft area. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
The Museum's Outreach Education Officer Liz Vine is opening her store cupboard for two drop-in sessions to make mini Tudor Knights and Ladies on Tuesday, February 19, from 10am-1pm and 1pm-4pm.
All materials will be provided for another two drop-in sessions on Thursday, February 21, from 10am-noon and 1pm-4pm, to make your own headdress or hat and a ruff, just like King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I.
The exhibition features a replica parlour and kitchen from the house of a Tudor nobleman called Henry Madison, who lived in the North East in the 16th century.
The kitchen area shows what life was like 'below stairs' in a grand town house. You can see where the food was prepared and find out what life was like in a Tudor kitchen, sitting by the range and imagining the meat roasting on the spit.
In contrast, the parlour area is very grand, with its rich panelling and decorations of suits of armour and weapons, even a treasure chest bursting with coins and pewterware, reflecting the life of a wealthy gentleman.
Visitors can also find out about early healthcare by matching 'cures' to a variety of diseases, try your hand at weaving a willow wall and compare the menus for a rich and poor person's dinner.
For more information, call the Museum on 01642 479500.
Throughout the holiday, from Saturday, February 16 to Sunday, February 24, children can be Tudor detectives, dressing up in costumes, then explore the exhibition to solve clues and complete a quiz.
From Tuesday, February 19, you can design your own coat of arms, just like all the noble Tudor families, with shield shapes, paper and pictures in the exhibition's craft area. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
The Museum's Outreach Education Officer Liz Vine is opening her store cupboard for two drop-in sessions to make mini Tudor Knights and Ladies on Tuesday, February 19, from 10am-1pm and 1pm-4pm.
All materials will be provided for another two drop-in sessions on Thursday, February 21, from 10am-noon and 1pm-4pm, to make your own headdress or hat and a ruff, just like King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I.
The exhibition features a replica parlour and kitchen from the house of a Tudor nobleman called Henry Madison, who lived in the North East in the 16th century.
The kitchen area shows what life was like 'below stairs' in a grand town house. You can see where the food was prepared and find out what life was like in a Tudor kitchen, sitting by the range and imagining the meat roasting on the spit.
In contrast, the parlour area is very grand, with its rich panelling and decorations of suits of armour and weapons, even a treasure chest bursting with coins and pewterware, reflecting the life of a wealthy gentleman.
Visitors can also find out about early healthcare by matching 'cures' to a variety of diseases, try your hand at weaving a willow wall and compare the menus for a rich and poor person's dinner.
For more information, call the Museum on 01642 479500.
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