The Maltby News issue 22

Your Wentworth Valley Community NewspaperFebruary 2010

COMMUNITYCHAMPIONS

Maltby leads the way

Our own F1 team

Page 16

Simon’s Trek

page 7

Political Profi le

page 11

Events Calendar

2 www.maltbynews.co.uk February 2010

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Maltby Town Council Surgery

Edward Dunn Memorial HallEvery Friday 14:00-15:30

Everyone welcome

1085

Maltby CragsWomen’s Group

Crags School Community Room 9:00 - 11:00. Every Wednesday

Term Time. Speakers, Crafts etc.For info: 07817 405255

Wickersley Writers WorkshopWickersley Community CentreEvery other Tues, 13:00 - 15:00

Tel Margaret: 01709 543991Tea, coffee & biscuits

Wickersley Operatics Society

Wickersley Community CentreTues 18:30 - 21:30 Thurs 19:30-21:30

Open to all over 16yrs

2

Folk and AcousticNight

The Three Tuns, Stainton20:00 Folks, Blues, 60s,

Anything acousticCall John: 01709 813530

Wentworth ValleyArea Assembly

Full Life Church,

Maltby, 18:00 - 20:00All Welcome

mar

Edward Dunn Dance & Social Club

Edward Dunn Memorial Hall14:00-16:30

Every Friday, Tea Dance £1.50 including tea & biscuits

FREE Brush up yourliteracy sessions Maltby Crags Infant School

Tuesdays 15:00 - 17:00Fridays 9.30 - 11.30

Contact Gill Lawrence: 01709 709208

17Supertots Carer

& Toddler GroupSt Marys Parish Room, Morell St9:00-11:00. Tuesdays (Term time

only) Everyone WelcomeTel Pauline: 07817 405255

Oliver By Maltby Muscial Theatre Group

8th - 13th March, Rotherham Civic Theater, 19:15

Tickets £10, Conc. £9Call: 0845 2412196

Frost/NixonMaltby Film Society

The Wesley Centre, Maltby19:30.

Tickets £3 on the door.

Soulmates atThe Three Tuns

Enjoy Steak Night with

Soul/Motown EntertainmentTel: 01709 812775

Baby Love atThe Three Tuns

A’ La Carte three course meal

in the function room£17.50 per personCall: 01709 812775

Oakwood Real Ale and Music Festival

Thurs 18th - Sun 21st FebOakwood Technology College

Various opening timeswww.oakwoodrealale.co.uk

Chris Woods

The Rock at the Wesley Centre,Maltby, Doors open 19:30

Tickets £10, Conc. £8

Peter & ChristineVocal/Instrument Duo

The Butchers Arms, Braithwell

Free Admission

Bartholomew & SonsFuneral Directors

est 1891

Serving Maltby and surounding areas for over 40 years.

For a caring, professional service 24 hours a day

812158 & 363706The Funeral Home, Coleridge Road, Maltby S66 7LT

Pre Payment Funeral plans available.

8-seater minibusnow available

Jeremy NealFuneral DirectorOffice & Chapel of Rest

Maltby Independent Funeral Service

17 Morrell StreetMaltby

S66 7LL

01709 815959Pre paid funeral plans available

24 hr serviceDedicated to Dignity, Care & Respect

www.rotherhamfunerals.co.uk

King and I22nd - 27th Feb

Wickersley Musical Theatre Group Rotherham Civic Theatre, 19:15

Tickets £10. Conc. £8.50For tickets: 0114 287728920

Bridlington Vs

Maltby Main

Queensgate, Bridlington, 15:00

www.maltbynews.co.uk 3February 2010

Community News

Last month saw another massive charity evening at the Three Tuns in Stainton on behalf of Craig Wood, the local teenage soldier badly injured fi ghting for his country in Afghanistan. In all over £7,000 was raised on the night, and more funds continue to come in via online donations. Craig, 18, from Woodlands, was on patrol with 2 Rifl e in Helmand Province when he was caught in a landmine explosion. He has lost both legs, his left hand and lower arm. The blast also caused facial injuries. He is bravely fi ghting back from his massive injuries, and is proving an inspiration to many. All who have met him recognise his humbling determination to overcome his injuries, and learn to walk again. Owners Tom and Kev Boyd pulled together another brilliant evening following November’s charity night which raised over £2,000 for Craig. “A big thank you has to go to Malcolm Lord who compared the event,” said Tom. Steve Daley contacted every Premierhip football club and each one contributed a signed shirt which were auctioned on the night. Some are still available from Steve’s website

[email protected] Thanks also go to Gary Marshall, a local comedian, who entertained everyone on the night and a special thanks to Pete Daughtrey the representative of Molson Coors who donated big prizes for the night. Tom and Kev would like to thank everyone who regularly supports charity fund raising.

Three Tuns raise more support for brave Craig When you fi nd yourself saying ‘Happy

Christmas’ to people in the middle of January, you know that the year-turn weeks of snow and ice have had a serious impact on ordinary life. My elderly sister took a nasty fall whilst trying to get to her bin, my sister-in-law broke her ankle on her drive and much of the time I was just too scared to tackle ice-rink pavements. Our family’s situation was typical. Nationally, the issues around injury and isolation have stretched both health and social services beyond reasonable limits. Events like this really do demonstrate the vulnerability of our infrastructure. They also reveal a pattern of changing communal priorities. However much it snowed, it was actually rare for the motorway network to be severely disrupted. As a result of this policy decision, the likes of supermarkets were positively helped to keep up their energy-squandering centralised distribution

systems. Conversely, our reliance on them was brought into focus and some new people have, quite properly, begun to ask questions. Far less resource was applied to keeping local shops accessible. There used to be a time when pavements on Maltby High Street were both cleared and gritted! The January maltby.news story about snow clearance for one set of old people’s fl ats, by young adults on a scheme, actually drew attention to an exceptional case. We used to do better for all the people living in housing schemes for the elderly and infi rm. More to the point, when we all had fi res, it was common practice to put hot ashes onto icy paths to make it easier and safer for everyone who went about on foot. Clearance of main roads, coupled with bus route gritting and service diversion, got many people to work for most of the time. On the whole it was the unexpected child-care issues resulting from nursery and school

closures which caught out employers and employees. The last time we had really bad snow in this area, in 1981, this was far less of a problem as there was much more parental and family care of young children and far less resort either to expensive institutional day-care or to schools staffed by folk who live at a distance. Could we have done things better? Have any of us identifi ed particular problems and occasions where resources might have been applied more equitably or more prudently? Were there any particular local diffi culties which need to be considered and recorded before they fade from memory? Now is the time to get these matters fed into the Town Council’s forthcoming Maltby Local Emergency Plan which, I am glad to have been advised, is due to be headed up by Councillors Rushforth and Carratt.

by Alice Rodgers

left: Pete Daughtrey and Craig Wood

right: Craig enjoys a pint with his family, Steve Daley and Malcolm Lord

photos by gemini photographywww.lloydbun-ting.co.uk

Emergency planners need your feedback

Maltby Leisure Centre fi nally opened its doors this month, with a formal opening attended by local dignatries and offi cials from all the companies involved in the build alongside Council offi cers. The event marked the completion of the £13m Maltby Leisure and Services Centre which also hosts the medical centre and council offi ces. Jenny Andrews, Chair of Maltby Town Council said “We have come a long way from the Lido on the Crags. My Great Uncle helped with the footings at the Lido and my father initiated the fund to raise the appeal for a swimming pool, and here I am at the new pool. It is fantastic for Maltby.” Maltby and RMBC Councillor Amy Rushforth added “This is absolutely fabulous for the people of Maltby and no less than they deserve. We should see a much healthier town with these facilities on our doorsteps. If one provides a service it should be the best available and this defi nitely is. When we complete the new school project we will have created a great environment for our children.” Steve Hallsworth, RMBC Leisure Services Manager said “This fantastic programme,

which started in 2001 with a commitment to close all the existing facilities across the Borough and to build four new centres , has now been completed with this fi nal piece in the jigsaw. Schools as well as the community will benefi t from the facility both in this generation and beyond. “Originally it was going to be a new pool but we listened to the need for a dry facility too. The other three facilities have exceeded our expectations with use up some 60%. This has been aided by the fact that prices for users have been kept on hold. “The other great benefi t is that we have built into the contract with DC Leisure a maintenance contract for the next 30 years, meaning that when the building is handed back it will be in top condition. “It should not be forgotten that Rotherham is now the only town in the country with four facilities such as this.” A delighted Peter Kirkham, DC Leisure’s

Development Director said “We manage 112 centres across the country employing 7,000 staff and offer new career opportunities for people in Rotherham. We currently employ 220 staff here, including the original staff and some 50 new members of staff. Everybody should be congratulated for what has been achieved over the period of this build.” Rotherham Mayor, Coun Shaukat Ali, said “We are proud to have been involved in this partnership which will provide so much for the coming generation in Rotherham and Maltby. We know we are on the right track as we have already had 1m users through the other three sites.” RMBC Leader Roger Stone added “We could not have done this without the idea of a PFI partnership. The total cost has been £34m across Rotherham. Just one new pool in Baintree has cost £9m. Here in Rotherham we have new facilities at Aston, at a cost of £5.5m, Wath under £4m, St Annes in town at £10m and the jewel in our crown the Maltby Leisure and Services Centre at a cost of £13m” Phil Rogers, Director of Culture and Leisure throughout the project said “In 2001 we faced the task of looking at the facilities in Rotherham and preparing a nine year programme. The cost to the Council has been £1.6m, and I am very proud of the fact that we managed to raise the rest of the monies externally. The key thing here is the maintenance contract which means that the facility will be cared for. Our job has always been to ensure the public got the very best from the project. I truly believe that Rotherham is nationally at the forefront of leisure provision in the UK.” Cllr Iain St John “As an ex PE teacher I

Community News


Welcome Kelly

We are please to welcome Kelly O’Toole formally of Setting

Trends. She is looking forward to

seeing her former customers.

Jewel in the Crown opens its doorsNew pool completes £13m services and leisure centre, Maltby complex is fi nal piece in the jigsaw say council

am delighted to see this fantastic facility in place, and am sure it will be used to the full.” David Sutton, Principal of the new Maltby Academy observed “We are delighted with the access for students from the school especially GCSE students.” The dry sports hall offers facilities for Cricket Nets, Basketball, Badminton, Volleyball, Netball and indoor football. Maltby Cricket Club have already booked

their winter nets time. Sean Brind of developers Wilmott Dixon said “It has been a challenging build but we managed to overcome all the problems. We were delighted to be able to use lots of local contractors. We expect the demolition of the old facility to take around eight to ten weeks. We are currently working around the problems of asbestos removal.”The new facility will be home to Rotherham Metro and Maltby Diving Club.


Community News

Our showrooms boasts thousands of small items designed to make everyday living that much easier telephone for free colour catalogue

• Scooters • Stairlifts • Specialised Powerchairs

SALES, SEVICE & REPAIR • Rise and Recline Chairs • High Seat Chairs • Profiling Beds • Bathlifts & Bathroom

Equipment • Walking Aids • Wheelchairs • Kitchen Equipment • Waterproof Clothing • Toileting Aids • Incontinence products • Pressure Care • Nebuliser’s

TELEPHONE 01709 378909 Parkgate Mobility Centre

Effingham Street Rotherham

“

“

it’s a long way from the Crags

Lido

Clockwise from top left: The Mayor cuts the ribbon fl anked by Cllr Amy Rushforth, Lady Scarbrough and Cllr Jenny Andrews, Lord Scarbrough and Phil Rogers at the poolside and The Mayor checks out the gym

Community News


Local Bawtry solicitors, Jones and Company, are offering a free legal advice service on a fi rst come, fi rst served basis each Wednesday at their offi ces on High Street, Bawtry from 5pm. No appointment is necessary. The service is designed to help individuals with initial legal advice to help them make a decision about whether they need further assistance. This service applies to all types of matters including

property, disputes, probate, crime, family, personal injury and also to any other general legal matters that the public may need help with. Jones and Company offer help with costs on certain matters through the legal aid service for individuals who qualify. Anyone who feels they need advice may drop in at the Bawtry offi ce, 48 High St, Bawtry at this time or call 01302 710555 for further details.

Free legal advice at Jones & Co in Bawtry

Maltby Community Development Trust benefi ted from the Wentworth Valley Area Consolidated Fund when they received a cheque for £3,561 last month.The money will go towards the cost of cavity insulation in the Wesley Centre and a new boiler. Chair John Turner said “We will try and support the community as much as through the through Area Assembly, and try to spread benefi ts as widely as possible. It is very gratifying to be part of this grant process.”Ian Cruddis Project Manager Maltby CDT Nicola Hacking Community Involvement Offi cer Area AssemblyCllr Parker Dep Chair Area Assembly Ted Kelsey Bramley Parish CouncilCllr Lynda Donaldson Cllr John Turner Chair Area Assembly

Maltby CDT receives funding


Community News

If you want healthy teeth for life, preventive care and regular check-ups are the way to go. Looking after your teeth is a lot like caring for your car. Some people like to practise regular maintenance so they can stop small problems turning into big, expensive ones. Others tend to adopt an emergency approach, neglecting to check the oil and water until the engine blows and shudders to a worrying halt. Unfortunately for teeth, like your car, the emergency route usually results in a bigger bill and more dramatic repair work. Maintaining optimum oral health today involves a two-pronged approach. Going to the dentist regularly is important. But even more vital is what you do at home on a day-to-day basis to look after your teeth and gums.

One-on-one The fi rst thing recommended for anyone who wants to keep their own set of teeth for life is an individual assessment by their dentist. It used to be said that everyone should have a dental check-up every six months, but recent studies by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence in the UK have indicated that’s not necessarily appropriate. It is much better to assess each person’s oral health and personal needs individually. Some may be advised to see their dentist only every 18 months, while others need to visit every three. Of course, this can change over the course of a lifetime, depending on needs and self-care. Children should go for their fi rst dental check-up around the age of two-and-a- half years, a dentist will then tell the parents how often the child needs to return. A generation ago, we didn’t know as much about preventive care as we know now. The primary focus of oral healthcare was diet-based – for example, children were warned to avoid certain types of food in order to prevent cavities – while gum health was something that was considered as secondary in importance. Today, however, the focus on prevention has shifted. Fluoridation has lessened the occurrence of tooth decay and we now know poor gums are the reason many people lose their teeth.

Total care While some dentists are now looking to employ oral health auxiliaries such as hygienists (whose focus is gum health) to work alongside them, all qualifi ed dentists will still be able to offer excellent advice about both tooth and gum care. A dental check-up focuses on soft tissue health as well as hard tissues. A dentist not only checks for tooth cavities, chips, cracks and gum problems, but can also make sure that bridges fi t correctly, treat mouth ulcers and, in rarer cases, spot the fi rst signs of potentially pre-cancerous lesions. Check-ups with a qualifi ed dentist are also important because some diseases or medical conditions have signs that appear in the mouth. Indicators for diabetes, nutrient and vitamin defi ciencies, and hormonal irregularities can often be detected during an oral examination. If they are, you may be referred to your doctor for further examination.

Local man Simon Quinn from Maltby follows his heart when he Treks the Inca Trail for the British Heart Foundation this year. Simon, who settled in Maltby some four years ago and works in Telecommunications got involved in the trip because last year two of his closest friends passed away from heart complaints. Lee Wilde and Richard Ziola had a huge impact on Simon’s life. He and Lee had been colleagues and good friends for around ten years and Richard had been a colleague good friend for fi ve years, “They helped me through the good times and the bad times, they died at a very early age both of them were under 40 years old, in this day and age a very young age. It has prompted me to do this Inca Trail Trek in Peru for the British Heart Foundation to raise funds for much needed research. The whole trip will be be over ten days and the trekking time time is fi ve days and I will be trekking

at high altitude up to 4200 Metres (13779 feet ) above sea level. Each day will consist of eight to nine hours of trekking some of it over rough and steep terrain following the actual Inca Trail to Machu Pichu. My aim is to raise as much money as possible for the British Heart Foundation’s fi ght against heart and circulatory disease which is more likely to kill you than any other serious illness, including cancer. I am still very saddened at the loss of Lee and Richard and will be trekking in memory of them both. So far I have raised over £2600, my personal aim is to reach the £5000 mark, I would already like to express my gratitude to the Maltby Miners Welfare Junior Football Club for their generous donation, and would like to appeal to the public to join in and help me raise the much needed funds. If you could help Simon reach his target visit his website www.justgiving.com/simonquinn2010

above Simon Quinn who is about to set off to the legendary

Machu Pichu

Simon’s Trek

Healthy dental care


Letters & Comment

•

•

Editorial“Maltby leads the way” says our front page. We refer, of course, to the opening of the new Sports Centre and the completion of the new build. There are many other ways, however, in which the Town has led the way over the years, and indeed more recently. Can we continue to do so? There are a number of ways this can be achieved, involving the harnessing of the fantastic community spirit in the town, and the continuing emergence of an effective Town Council. So far as the former is concerned the numerous tenants’ and residents’ associations across the town already have a major impact on residents’ lives. The Town Council, meanwhile, continues to move forward in its pursuit of “Quality Town Council” status. The latter is important as it will enable the Council to work with others, including the voluntary and community sector, to undertake services funded from its own resources to look after the parish environment and provide public facilities. They may also take on the delivery of some services on behalf of the principal authority, Rotherham MBC, thereby making services responsive to local needs. This month one councillor told the maltby.news they were tired of hearing the phrase “Well that’s Maltby”, when people criticise the town. It would be much better if the infl ection was different, and the phrase was used in a praiseworthy way. Fans of the hit US comedy Friends will remember the phrase “Pulling a Monica” from one episode. Let’s try to “Pull a Maltby” this year, by getting behind community efforts, and taking pride in our town.

The Maltby News and The Wickersley News13 Blyth RoadMaltbyRotherhamS66 8HXcontact: 01709 819566email: [email protected]: www.maltbynews.co.uk

Published by Joker Publications Ltd at their registered offi ce, Unit 6, Acorn Business Park, Woodseats Close, Sheffi eld S8 0TB.Company No. 6504103.

Printed by Sharman and Company Limited on recycled newsprint.

Distributed by DBS MarketingTel: 01924 273927www.dbslimited.co.uk

•

FINDING COAL CENTENARY

Sir

The 18th June 2010 marks a momentous anniversary in the history of our town. It was on that day in 1910 that the long task of sinking the fi rst shaft to reach the Barnsley Seam fi nally bore fruit. The seam was of exceptional thickness and the coal was of very good quality. The event marked a turning point for both the colliery’s sinkers and its investors. It meant that their highly dangerous labours and risk capital were almost certain to see a valuable return. In response, on 9th July 1910, all who had been involved got together in a marquee near Maltby Hall for a very well-oiled “Finding Coal Dinner”. In my view, one hundred years on, all this is reason enough for Maltby to enjoy a bit of fun and celebration. I have spoken to others who agree with me and my crystal ball foretells that we are in for a bout of dressing up and (very late) Edwardian frolic. How about it folks?

Yours nostalgically,

Alice Rodgers (Maltby Local History Society .)By emailPS Before any historical pedants pick up on the issue, I know that George V acceded to the throne on 6th May 1910!

NOT TWO SCHOOLS BUT THREE

Sir

As an extension to last month’s articles on Maltby Academy here is a photograph of the teaching staff at Maltby Hall Secondary Modern Boys school in 1954. I was a pupil in Mr Brown’s class. In those days the school consisted of Maltby Hall Boys, Maltby Hall Girls. There were railings down the middle of the playground and woe betide you if you were caught talking to the girls through the railings. The posh part was of course Maltby Grammar School. I know the redoubtable Walter Smith and Jack Tose are still around but I would love to hear from anyone else who taught me.

Yours faithfully

Roy Coggan19 Blyth Road

The editor writes for those interested in developments as the new Maltby Academy lead sponsor Andy Pickles of U-Explore will attend the Wentworth Valley Area Assembly meeting on Tuesday 23rd February at the Full Life Church, Maltby. All residents are welcome to attend the meeting to hear the presentation and raise any queries.

FIRBECK HALL NEEDS YOU!

Sir

“Friends of Firbeck Hall” is an organisation which came about following a presentation on the history of the Hall, which inevitably drew attention to its current deteriorating condition. Firbeck Hall is a Grade 2 listed building, which has been allowed to fall into disrepair over recent years with no apparent plans for its future. Urgent action is now essential if Firbeck Hall is to be saved and the prime objective of our organisation, the Friends of Firbeck Hall, is to stimulate such action. A growing membership already exceeds 150 who care passionately about the Hall. Firbeck Hall is an imposing structure built with local limestone and set in a magnifi cent location. The Hall and its fascinating history have been a signifi cant part of the village for over 400 years. Varying period styles of architecture are featured, not least the art-deco additions of the prestigious country club which occupied the Hall in the thirties. Post war, as a rehabilitation centre for injured coal miners, Firbeck Hall gained a lasting reputation as a place of healing before its closure some 15 years ago. Since then Firbeck Hall has remained unoccupied and neglected with roof damage and the ingress of rain- water leading to serious interior decay. Firbeck Hall is truly threatened and needs the support of all who care about its future, indeed all those who have any concern whatever for our national heritage. We owe it both to past and to future generations to save Firbeck Hall.

Yours

Simon Drohan

For further information about us and details of membership please contact: - Simon Drohan, tel: 01909 732191. e-mail: [email protected]

HELP FROM NATIONAL AUTISM SOCIETY

Sir

In the recent past, my daughter and I, along with other family members and friends have been responsible for raising funding in aid of the National Autistic Society. Over the last twelve months we have collected in Maltby, Edlington, Swallownest and Rotherham and have been amazed to learn of the amount of families who are affected with Autism and other related conditions in this area. As many people are aware, living with an adult or child who suffers from these conditions, can at time be very stressful and ‘time consuming’ A number of the people who we talked to said that they felt isolated because people didn’t understand or want to understand when they tried to describe what life is like living with a person with these conditions. I have a teenage grandson who suffers from Aspergers Syndrome so I have a very good idea of how stressful life can be at times.A number of these people asked if we knew of anywhere where they could go to obtain advice or help. We told them that there was a N.A.S.support group in Rotherham or that they could contact the N.A.S.Headquarters in Nottingham but these suggestions didn’t go down well. After a number of conversations, my daughter and I have decided to write this letter to invite anyone who is affected by this condition to contact me if they are interested in forming a Support Group here in Maltby. I believe that such a group would have the potential to break down barriers, form new friendships, offer support, advice and understanding from like minded people. If anyone is interested in forming such a group, will you please contact Keith Stringer on 01709 816582 or e-mail me on

[email protected]

Yours

K Stringer by e-mail

Messers Robinson, Smith, Hawkins, Siddons, SHore, Fisher, Tose, Robberts, Cox, Gillam, Elliot, Parkin, Ingham, Shaw, Fletcher, Felton (Head) Bowns, Stubbs, Tindell (Sec)

BOLAMJohn Henry

Died age 58.

The funeral took place at his homein Helensburgh, Scotland on

19/01/2010

Johnny was born in Maltby where he attended local

schools.He joined the

Royal Navy aged 16;

Through hard work he attainedthe rank of Chief

Petty Offi cer.

Sadly missed by his Mam Hilda &

Family

Deaths

•


Community News

HEALTHY READERS

Sir

May we have this opportunity to thank maltby.news for advertising healthy life style in the newspaper . After December’s full page editorial about local girl Katie Avill, who’s lifestyle has changed by losing in excess of two stones with a fantastic Slimming World eating plan, and her encouragement to young people not to suffer alone, Maltby Slimming World group is buzzing and this month is currently the best group in Rotherham. It is amazing what every month’s advert can do. Group meetings are so popular that a new group has now opened at Braithwell. Now there are four groups in the area

• helping people to loose weight in the healthy way.Even more exciting we have an agreement with the new Maltby Leisure Centre that every Slimming World member can have 15% discount at the Gym and Swimming pool. Whether you live in Maltby, Wickersley, Bramley or Braithwell, every month you can fi nd our groups times in the maltby.news. Once again thank you maltby.news for helping people to get slimmer, fi tter and healthier.We look forward to your continued support.

Yours

Jovita Langley Slimming World Consultant

STRICTLY WONDERFUL

Sir

I was a recent winner in your Strictly Come dancing competition and would like to thank the maltby.news for providing my husband and I with such a wonderful evening at the Sheffi eld Arena. It really was a fi rst-class show with excellent music, the energetic professional dancers, the terrifi c celebrities from the TV show and the funny and knowledgeable judges including the lovely Arlene Phillips. Once again, many thanks.

Yours

Anne MawbeyMaltby

• POPPY APPEAL RECORD

Sir

The Poppy Appeal launched by the Maltby Branch of the British Legion has raised a fantastic £13,500 to date, with monies still coming in. This is an increase of over £4,000 on last year. The South Yorkshire British Legion has been, for the third year in a row, the fi rst to raise £1.5m. I would like to thank everyone who helped with organising the collections, and especially the Branch offi cials in Maltby.

Yours faithfully

Anne DickinsonHighfi eld ParkMaltby

•

Lloyd Bunting has opened the shutters on his new photographic studio at Aven Enterprise Park on Tickhill Road between Maltby and Tickhill. He has been in photography from being 14, starting work for a portrait company in Sheffi eld. He opened his own business fi fteen years ago and now specialises in weddings and portraits. “I got the keys for the new premises at the end of December, and we opened in the second week of January,” says Lloyd. The white background permanent studio will enable Lloyd and business partner Lynn Oglesby to provide the best value for money available to clients. “Lynne has been working with me for three years and she does second camara at weddings and her own portrait work. Through her own company LO Photography she specialises in midweek weddings and portrait work.” The studio also offers

copyright free discs with every package purchased. “We provide a high end quality framing service, and also do a budget service to suit every pocket,” said Lloyd. “We also do Canvases and acrylics, and everything from 6x4 prints to wall size.” Aven Enterprise Park

provides ample parking and security for clients visiting the studio. “We will have a regular monthly special offer,’” Lloyd added, reassuring clients “We do not do cheap introductory offers and then a big up sell, and all our prices are inclusive.” KH

New photo studio opens shutters

Community News


Lynda Donaldson moved to Rotherham in 1987 as a result of a work promotion and has remained here since then as a matter of choice. Lynda lives on Moorgate with her husband, Drew Donaldson, and their three children, William, Grace and Edward who were all born in Rotherham where they also attend school. In 2004 she successfully fought the local elections in Hellaby and is now one of just ten Conservative councillors in Rotherham. Two years later she was re-elected for a four-year term. She is the current Chair of the Wentworth Valley Children’s Board and also sits on the Children and Young People’s Scrutiny panel and the Licensing panel. Lynda held the post of Deputy Chairman of the Conservative Group 2007 – 2008 and in 2009 was selected as the fi rst local candidate in many years for the Rother Valley constituency, something she is very proud of. “After fi ve years in local politics, I now feel I’m ready to move up but I do not just want to be an MP – I want to represent the area I live in, and will continue to live in, because I’m sure I can help. The fi rst thing we need to do is to listen to people and when we say “consult” we should mean consult. I have had 25 years of work where I help people and I want to continue to do so but on a greater level and for the greater good of all, not just the few” With 28 years experience in fi nancial services – running her own business for the last ten – Lynda has worked with hundreds of local people and businesses, giving her a unique insight into their problems and their needs. This knowledge has proved

invaluable to her as a member of the Board of Trustees for Age Concern and in her position as a Magistrate. Having been recognised for her work in connection with Long Term Care for the elderly at a ceremony in London, one of her current concerns is the reduction of services for older people in Rotherham such as Meals on Wheels and the Laundry service and she has voiced concerns about care for the elderly and the vital links for their day to day needs. She has publicly campaigned on these issues. In 2006 Lynda received the Athena Women in Business award, which was presented at Hellaby Hall Hotel. Since her selection, Lynda has been out meeting people on their doorsteps at last three times a week in all areas of the constituency and makes a point of personally responding to every resident who returns one of her information cards. She recently held a Business Briefi ng Breakfast for local business owners to improve her understanding of their concerns and there are plans to repeat this on a regular basis. She will also be hosting a number of public meetings in the fi rst quarter of 2010 On a more personal note as she has seen her family grow up, she has rediscovered the love of reading a book without keeping one eye on a child. She has also invested in some walking boots as there are some fantastic walks around Rother Valley and walking is the only way to see some of the places at their best. For more information on Lynda visit her website: www.lyndadonaldson.co.uk


Community News

Lynda hopes for an historic victory in general electionIn the fi rst of a series of profi les we introduce Lynda Donaldson the Conservative candidate for Rother Valley

Hargreaves FundHargreaves Community Fund still has monies available for local Maltby Groups. Applications should be made as soon as possible, and application forms can be obtained from Anne Dickinson on 07941671462. Earlier this year Hargreaves Services were runners-up in the Rotherham Sports Awards held at Hellaby Hall in the category of Business Contribution to Sport.

Aggregate Industries is merging three major road-building businesses to create a new £10m turnover company, based in Maltby. The operations of Needham and Cullen, founded 19 years ago have been brought together to form Bardon Composite Pavements (BCP), based at Aven Industrial Estate. The new business will have around 80 employees and will specialise in large scale road surfacing projects, including ports and retail parks, across the country. Danny Falls of BCP said: “Bringing the three companies together under

one brand, within the AI Group, offers huge benefi ts to our customers. “BCP offers a highly specialist service that can offer sustainable and versatile, alternative pavement solutions which can provide customers a competitive edge in delivering projects.” BCP will work as part of Bardon Contracting and will also provide its specialist services to customers direct.BCP has a turnover of £10m and employs 80 people at its new central head offi ce which is based in Maltby, South Yorkshire. KH

New Head Offi ce for BCP opens in Maltby

Community News


Contrary to popular perception the odds are stacked against anyone claiming unfair dismissal, and following the Employment Act 2008, it is even more diffi cult. The reason the diffi culty has increased is that for many scenarios, the concept of automatic unfair dismissal has been repealed along with the Statutory Disciplinary and Dismissal Procedures. Dismissal can be on grounds of redundancy, conduct, capability, retirement, statutory ban (for example if you have to drive as part of your job and lose your driving licence) or a catch all ‘Some Other Substantial Reason.’ Employers should try and get a dismissal to fi t one of these criteria. The fi rst step when faced with a potential dismissal is to seek advice. Many solicitors will offer a free initial consultation; Citizens Advice Bureaux and trade unions are all sources of free assistance and advice. You may have legal expenses cover on your household insurance. It may be worth the few pounds a year on the premium to take it out. A word of warning though, usually it won’t cover you in a dispute with the company who provides the insurance, so it may be worth switching from a company you work for, even if you lose a few pounds a year discount. It’s suddenly disconcerting to be outside the world of employment, especially if you’ve worked for the

same company for some time. But you have to get used to the idea that people will all dive for cover. Don’t rely on old colleagues to provide assistance (although some undoubtedly will), make sure you write everything down, keep copies of all letters you send and receive, send correspondence by recorded post. You should be given the right to appeal, exercise that right. You might not want your job back but it shows that you are being reasonable. If you receive advice, make sure it’s from someone who specialises in employment law. It’s an area of law that changes quicker than most and you need someone who is on top of matters. That doesn’t mean it’s got to be a big expensive fi rm, and as ever, the best advertising is word of mouth. Once you start asking around, you’ll be surprised how many people have had problems at work that have involved taking legal advice. Don’t despair. It doesn’t matter how big the company is, they can get it wrong just as easily as a small one. Just because their solicitors come from a large city fi rm doesn’t always mean they can make good what their client got wrong. Don’t sit back and wait for untold riches. If the matter goes to a Tribunal it will probably take months. Some large companies actually like to try & drag matters out to see if claimants will back down. In addition, a Tribunal will want to see that you have

attempted to mitigate your loss by seeking alternative work. Ironically, if you fail to seek alternative work, a Tribunal could reduce the value of any award given. A payout from a Tribunal is subject to deductions for any benefi ts received. Any payout is normally tax free up to £30,000. It may be that matters are settled by a compromise agreement (and therefore avoids any deductions for benefi ts), which, as I am sure you remember, was the subject of an earlier article. The information and any commentary contained in this article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or any other type of professional advice. Tierney and Co does not accept and, to the extent permitted by law, excludes liability to any person for any loss which may arise from relying upon or otherwise using the information contained in this article. If you have a particular query or issue you are strongly advised to obtain specifi c, personal advice about your case or matter and not to rely on the information or comments in this article.

If you have any legal issues, the best advice we can give you is to consult a solicitor.

For all your employment law (and other legal) needs, please contact Ian Clay at Tierney & Co on 01709 709000.

Unfair dismissal - How to win

A Maltby taxi fi rm is leading the way in Rotherham to provide security for passengers. Taxi drivers in Rotherham have been encouraged to have CCTV installed in their vehicles, and Brian Crabtree of Crabacabs of Maltby now has a system fi tted in both his vehicles following an event organised by the Licensing Team of Rotherham Council at Magna last December. Mr Crabtree who had a CCTV system installed last month said: “I decided to have the cameras installed in my vehicles to give both myself and my passengers an added level of personal security. From a personal point of view, the system protects me in the event of any allegation that may be made against me and also deters anyone carrying out a verbal or physical

assault because I can just press a small button and record any incident. “Also people are reluctant to let women travel alone, but this protects them too. They know that when they get in my cabs they will be safe. The system is fully encrypted and cannot be tampered with. This can then be handed over to the licensing authority or police to assist in any investigation.” Deborah Bragg, Licensing Manager for Rotherham Borough Council, said “Drivers need to feel safe particularly when they are working late at night. Taxi drivers are lone workers so they need to be equipped with the tools to do their job safely such as basic safety rules on being alert and aware of what is going on around them.” KH

the eye in the cab

Taxi fi rm leads way

www.maltbynews.co.uk 13

Community News

February 2010

Students at Maltby Academy are looking forward to one of the most exciting events of the year this month when the school hosts a Prom Fayre. Companies from across the region will be showcasing their wares to students, parents and the general public offering ideas for the year 11 prom. Students will be able

to check out everything from prom dresses and suits to limousines and accessories for the night. Last year the organisers said “The event brought staff and students together and we all had a fantastic night of prom style glitz and glamour.”Above: Students model dresses at last year’s event

Glitz and glamour at the Academy

The bid to create a new university centre in the Dearne Valley has been submitted to the government. Wentworth MP John Healey, Staffordshire executive pro-vice chancellor Gill Howland and Dearne Valley College principal Sue Ransom personally handed over the plan to Higher Education Minister David Lammy. The “statement of strategic intent” says Dearne Valley University Centre (DVUC) would be “dynamic and distinctive” and could be based at Humphrey Davy House, next to Dearne Valley College’s Manvers campus. The Higher Education Funding Council for England have to approve the bid before more detailed planning can be done, but the Dearne Valley Higher Education Partnership – which has Dearne Valley College and Rotherham Council as primary partners alongside Staffordshire University – is seeking £1m to get the centre off the ground. If it is successful, DVUC could start taking students next year and would expect to have 600 enrolled by 2013/14. Mr Healey said: “The partnership has made a convincing case for a university centre which would complete the transformation of the Dearne and help people in our area fulfi ll their potential.

“Staffordshire University have already done in other coalfi eld areas exactly what we aim to do in the Dearne. “Our school exam results are improving faster than elsewhere and more young people than ever are going to university from the Dearne, but our rates still lag behind the rest of the country. This bid signals a determination to shatter this last economic and social barrier. “There are ambitious plans for the continuing regeneration of the Dearne and I want local people of all ages to be able to take advantage of the thousands of new jobs to be created here in the next decade.” Although increasing, the number of people going on to higher education in the Dearne is much lower than levels for the national, regional and South Yorkshire. The university centre would seek to attract young people and mature students who might not have considered going on to higher education before. The economy of the Dearne has changed dramatically over the last decade, with regeneration attracting many new companies and job opportunities. But many of these are taken by “in-commuters” – Dearne people fi ll less than a third of the nearly 10,000 new jobs. Thousands more jobs are expected to be created in the Dearne by 2020.

The university would be linked to the emerging Dearne Valley eco-vision and offer courses in business, ICT and sciences to make sure local people have the right qualifi cations in future. Sue Ransom, Dearne Valley College principal, said: “The partnership with Staffordshire University would bring a wider range of opportunities for more young people and adults to realise their potential and develop the higher level skills needed for the future. This is and exciting prospect one which individuals, communities and employers in the Dearne Valley need and deserve.” Cllr Roger Stone, the leader of Rotherham Borough Council, added: “Rotherham Borough Council is right behind the bid because the Dearne really needs this kind of higher education facility. If the bid is successful it will be really good news for both local people and employers as we need to raise skills among the local population. A facility such as this will not only raise personal ambitions but is vital in meeting the growing demands of local employers in the future. “It will also underpin our aim to protect long-term jobs across the borough and will be at the forefront of providing the necessary skills required by the proposed eco-vision for the area.”

New local university moves a step closer at Manvers site

Maltby Town Council met in the Edward Dunn on Tuesday 19th January, and on the agenda were applications for grants from the Town Council. Amongst these, was a letter from a young lad in Maltby who

plays ice hockey for Sheffi eld, but more importantly at international level, for the England under 15’s. The young Maltby lad in question is Jonathan Kirk. He has been fortunate enough to play in Canada, Switzerland, Germany, Holland and Italy as well as throughout the U.K. As you can well imagine, it can be very expensive to do all this traveling around the world. So Jonathan wrote to see if his local town council could help with a grant of £100.00. Unfortunately, even though the town councillors admired Jonathan’s efforts at his sport, and everyone did indeed feel proud of the young lad, under the rules laid down about council grants, the council cannot sponsor individuals. The rules say that to qualify for a grant, an application would have to come from a local organisation, which in turn has to be governed by a committee and prove to have a constitution. However, the town councillors were so impressed by the lad’s achievements, that they offered free use of the Edward Dunn Memorial Hall, so that his team can hold

a fund raising event to help him with his endeavours. Also, in the public gallery that evening was a knight in shining armour! A gentleman who wishes to remain anonymous, was so impressed by the young lad’s gumption, that he has given Jonathan a cheque for £100.00. In a lovely letter of thanks to the gentleman, Jonathan says, “I cannot express in words my gratitude for this kind donation to help fund my trips abroad representing the England U15’s at ice hockey.” He goes on to say, that as much as he appreciates the support that he gets from his family, in both time and fi nancially, he has never been more overwhelmed as he was when the anonymous gentleman arrived on his doorstep. Jonathan has sent a heartfelt letter of thanks and a photo of himself, together with a promise to keep his benefactor updated in his progress for both England and the Midlands Conference tournaments in Germany and Latvia in March and April. He will of course also do his best to score a few goals in the gentleman’s and Maltby’s honour.


Maltby Town CouncillorsMrs J M Andrews - Chair 07757287941 [email protected]

K F Stringer - Vice Chair 01709 816582 [email protected]

M V Ainsworth 01709 816903 [email protected]

Mrs J Anderson 01709 816734

M J Bradford 01709 813409 [email protected]

Mrs J Bradford 01709 813409/07969 957871 [email protected]

D J Brennan 01709 790871 [email protected]

J Carratt 01709 815527 [email protected]

A D Foster 01709 790789 [email protected]

Mrs B Fuller-Ainsworth 01709 816903

J C Kirk 01709 816445 [email protected]

Mrs June Madden [email protected]

C McMahon 07824317415 [email protected]

Mrs A L Rushforth 01709 814894 [email protected]

P Scholey 01709 813630/07721 310174 [email protected]

B Slade 01709 814748 [email protected]

Mrs C Stringer 01709 816582 [email protected]

Mrs K E Usher 01709 769430 [email protected]

EDWARD DUNN MEMORIAL HALL

EVERY TUESDAY 3.30PM—5.30PM

FOR INFORMATION OUTSIDE THESE HOURS PHONE 01909

773966

NO APPOINTMENT ISNECESSARY

DO YOU KNOW YOUR RIGHT’SWE CAN CHECK THAT YOU

ARE RECEIVING ALL THE BENEFITS YOU ARE ENTITLED

TO.

IF YOU NEED HELP COMPLETING BENEFIT FORMS

WE CAN ARRANGE AN APPOINTMENT FOR

SOMEONE TO HELP YOU

IF YOU ARE CONCERNED ABOUT AN ISSUE AND NEED

SOME ADVICE WE WILL BE HAPPY TO SEE YOU .

IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH DEBT

WE MAY BE ABLE TO HELP.

KIVETON PARK INDEPENDENT ADVICE CENTRE

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS SESSION

Residents Association thanks Council for Christmas Grant

Members of Aldersgate Residents Association benefi ted from a Maltby Town Council Grant before Christmas which helped them celebrate in style at The Three Tuns. They received £100 towards the cost of transport and their meal. In all 26 residents attended and as we see from the picture were keen to thank the Town Hall.

Icing on the cake for Jonathan

Maltby Town Council Surgeries

Every Friday at the Edward Dunn Memorial

Hall

14:00 - 15:30

Everyone Welcome

JEAN ANDERSONJean Anderson was elected to Maltby Town Council at the May 2007 elections. Born in Rotherham, she moved to Maltby in 1994 when she met and married her husband Colin. Jean worked for Tesco for 23 years before retiring, and enjoying more time with her family including two grandchildren. Her interest in youth work was partly behind her desire to serve on the Town Council as an Independent councillor. “I have a big interest in the youth of Maltby and wanted to try and make the town a better place to live, especially for the children and youth of Maltby.” To that end Jean is actively involved with the Zion Youth Group. Jean is a keen swimmer and is looking forward to taking her grandchildren to the new Maltby Leisure Centre.

JONATHAN CARRATT

You are not likely to miss Cllr Carratt around Maltby. He was once in the Guinness Book of Records for being, at just over 6’ 8” half of Britain’s tallest twins! Having lived in Maltby for all of his 55 years he knows the town as well as anyone, and would not live anywhere else “unless I win the lottery”! Elected last year at a by-election he was prompted to stand for election after being a regular attender at Council meetings. “It was a question of “put up or shut up, and try and bring some common sense to council meetings,” he says. He worked at Maltby Colliery for over 20 years, and for fi ve years he was caretaker and a governor for four years at Maltby Comprehensive. He is now a Fire Safety Advisor for the Prison Service. “I would like to see the best for the people of Maltby. We have a fantastic new pool and council offi ces, a new school coming on stream all of which will make Maltby a place people will want to live.” He has three children, including twins, and two grandchildren.

JOY BRADFORDCllr Bradford has lived in Maltby all her life. “I have clocked up the half century,” she jokes. After working at the Midland Bank she spent 20 years at Lilly Hall School and at the Lynx Play Group, and now works with the youth of Maltby on a voluntary basis. She has three children of her own and a grandchild who all live in Maltby. Elected in May 2007 she was prompted to stand not through political ambition but because of her “interest in Maltby”. “I have visited the new pool with my grandson, and it seems to be a great new facility for the town I am a bit concerned about the parking, but we will see what happens. “I was educated at what was Maltby Grammar School. I hope the new Academy is a good thing for Maltby, but time will tell.” She hopes to see Maltby working together. “We have some great institutions in Maltby, and if we pull together it can be a great place”


Present were Councillors Mrs J M Andrews (Chairman), M V Ainsworth, Mrs J Anderson, M J Bradford, D J Brennan, J Carratt, J C Kirk, Mrs A L Rushforth, P Scholey, and Mrs K E Usher In attendance: Mrs A Stewart the Clerk and Responsible Financial Offi cer, Mrs S J Bailey, Assistant Clerk & Financial Offi cer, 12 members of the public and 0 members of the press.

174/09 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION – Points were raised by members of the public, which were answered by the Chair, Clerk & Responsible Financial Offi cer and Councillors.

175/09 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Councillors: Mrs J Bradford, Mrs B Fuller-Ainsworth, A D Foster, Mrs J Madden, C McMahon, B Slade, K F Stringer, and Mrs C Stringer.

176/09 DECLARATIONS OF PERSONAL OR PREJUDICIAL INTEREST – None given

177/09 EXCLUSION OF PRESS AND PUBLIC – None

178/09 COMMUNICATIONS RECEIVED BY THE CHAIRMANLetter from Councillor K F Stringer thanking everyone for their kind thoughts during his recent illness.Email from the Maltby Festival group asking the Council to consider including the Festival grant in the 2010/2011 precept budget. Invitation for the chairman to attend the opening of the new Maltby Sports Hall.Letter from Ground Works Dearne Valley thanking Maltby Town Council for funding the skip for the Crags clean up day.RECOMMENDED: that the above be noted.

179/09 MINUTES OF TOWN COUNCIL MEETING HELD WEDNESDAY 18 NOVEMBER 2009Amendments: Minute number 150/09: that Councillor B Slade’s name be added to the vote Against and that Councillor Mrs B Fuller-Ainsworth be removed as she was late due to traffi c problems.

Matter Arising: Minute Number 165/09: Cllr Mrs J Anderson asked if the council had any evidence for the damage caused to the toilets. Cllr Mrs J Anderson was reminded of her personal and prejudicial interest and asked her to refrain from commenting further.RESOLVED: that with the above amendments the minutes of the meeting held on Wednesday 18 November 2009 be confi rmed as a true and accurate record of the proceedings. FOR: 9 ABSTAINED: 1 Councillor M J Bradford.

180/09 BOUNDARY STONERESOLVED: that the Clerk and Responsible Financial Offi cer to look at the cost for installing lighting to the boundary stones.

181/09 REPORT GIVEN BY THE CLERK AND RESPONSIBLE FINANCIAL OFFICERRESOLVED: that the report by Clerk and Responsible Financial Offi cer be noted.

182/09 TWO PAGES IN THE MALTBY NEWSRESOLVED: The Clerk and Responsible Financial Offi cer to contact all Councillors for volunteers to sit on the panel.

183/09 GENERAL OPERATION OF THE EDWARD DUNN MEMORIAL HALL RESOLVED: that the above be noted.

186/09 ROUTINE CORRESPONDENCEThank you letters for Christmas donation from: Maltby SchoolsRESOLVED: that the above be noted.

188/09 EXCHANGE OF INFORMATIONCllr Mrs J M Andrews thanked Street Pride for replacing a damaged dog waste bin.

Cllr J Carratt thanked all involved with producing a very successful Christmas Lights Switch on event.

189/09 DATE AND TIME OF THE NEXT MEETING: Wednesday 10 February 2010 commencing at 6.30 pm in the Edward Dunn Memorial Hall.

Present were Councillors Mrs J M Andrews (Chairman), M V Ainsworth, Mrs J Anderson, M J Bradford, Mrs J Bradford, D J Brennan, J Carratt, A D Foster, Mrs B Fuller-Ainsworth, J C Kirk, Mrs J Madden, Mrs A L Rushforth, P Scholey, Councillor B Slade, and Mrs K E Usher In attendance: Mrs A Stewart the Clerk and Responsible Financial Offi cer, Mrs S J Bailey, Assistant Clerk & Financial Offi cer, 7 members of the public and 0 member of the press.

F01/09 PUBLIC PARTICIPATIONThe following points were raised by members of the public:Questions about the bar. Repeat request for the monthly accounts to be displayed in the library. Maltby Festival Group asked why they are being charged for the rent of a room in the Edward Dunn Memorial Hall for their monthly meetings? Why had the 2009 accounts not yet been passed by the external auditor. Were all users of the Edward Dunn Memorial Hall were charged the same rate?

F02/09 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE - apologies were received from Cllrs: C McMahon, Mrs C Stringer and K F Stringer.

F03/09 DECLARATIONS OF PERSONAL OR PREJUDICIAL INTEREST - none

F04/09 EXCLUSION OF PRESS AND PUBLIC – none

F05/09 COMMUNF05/09ICATIONS RECEIVED BY THE CHAIRMAN Invite from the Lynx re Christmas lunch. Lighting installation to the Tickhill Road Boundary Stone.Cost of recent election which was

£13,551. RESOLVED: that the above be accepted

F06/09 BUDGET AND PRECEPT MARCH 2011Precept fi qure to be presented to RMBC before 31st January 2010.Defer the installation of the port-a-loos for a further year and then review. RESOLVED: that the above be accepted.Proposal that the precept not be increased. RESOLVED: that the above proposal was not accepted by a majority vote.Proposal to increase the precept by 1%. RESOLVED: that the precept for 2010/2011 be increased by 1%.

F07/09 PEPPERCORN RENT FOR LAND USED BY THE STEPPING STONES BUILDINGRESOLVED: that a peppercorn rent is applied of £1 per year.

F08/09 2 PAGES MALTBY NEWSRESOLVED: that the Clerk and Responsible Financial Offi cer contact the Maltby News re the agreement.

F09/09 CONFIRMATION OF ACCOUNTS FOR NOVEMBER 2009Proposal: a group meet to verify the accounts and then report back to the next fi nance meeting.RESOLVED: as proposal accepted.RESOLVED: that the Clerk and Responsible Financial Offi cer arrange for a meeting to verify the accounts

F10/09 GRANT APPLICATIONSRESOLVED: a grant be made to the Salvation Army for crockery.

F11/09 BEDE PRESCHOOL AND NURSERYRESOLVED: to be an agenda item for the next Finance meeting.

Minutes of a Finance Meeting held on Tuesday 8 December 2009

Minutes of a Meeting held on Wednesday 16 December 2009

Maltby Town Council Chair - Jenny Andrews with Rother-ham Mayor Cllr Shauqat Ali at the opening of the new leisure centre

The new Virgin Racing Formula One team has proudly unveiled its debut race car - the VR-01. The team was created last year when Dinnington’s Manor Grand Prix teamed up with Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin brand to embark on an exciting F1 adventure. Virgin Racing Technical Director, Nick Wirth said: “Today is a very proud day for everyone involved with Virgin Racing, however on this occasion, where the car is the star, I want to pay tribute to all the amazing people at Wirth Research who deserve so much of the credit for the VR-01. Putting together an F1 team, assembling an engineering group and designing a new car from scratch is an epic task in the timeframe we have been working to. “We have assembled a fantastic design and engineering group, the calibre of which I could only have dreamed of attracting when we fi rst started out on this journey.” Virgin Racing Team Principal, John Booth added: “Today is the culmination of a very emotional journey which really began in June last year when we celebrated the fantastic news that our entry into Formula One had been accepted. The celebrations were necessarily brief however, because we were already in a race against time to design and develop a race car at the same time as building a new team of people and premises. “I would like to congratulate our new race team - a great bunch of guys


Sport

Come along to a Come along to a

Community Clean up of Community Clean up of Crags Meadow!Crags Meadow!

Saturday 27th February 2010

12pm-3pm

Those to attend to wear suitable clothing and assemble at the Wesley Centre car park at 12 noon.

Young People under the age of 8 must be with a

parent or guardian.

For further information please contact Lucy Cheetham Groundwork Dearne Valley on 01226 740077 or email:

[email protected]

Follow our own F1 team in 2010

left to right: Lucas di Grassi, Timo Glock and test driver Luis Razia

working together for the very fi rst time in the pressure-cooker environment of a demanding car build schedule. Logistically it hasn’t been easy, since the initial build of the two race cars is taking place in Bicester, rather than our operational base in Dinnington. Their commitment and professionalism has been exemplary and they have set their own very high bar in terms of trackside performance this season. “Finally, not only do we have a great bunch of people at Virgin Racing, we also have a great-looking car. We are delighted with our fantastic new livery

which provides a fi tting integration of our racing brand with our important commercial partnerships. “All in all, we have a lot to look forward to as we progress towards our racing debut in Bahrain next month.” The VR-01 is the fi rst of a new breed of race car designed entirely in the digital domain using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics). It is the brainchild of Virgin Racing’s Technical Director, Nick Wirth, who has gained an international reputation for pioneering a purely CFD approach to car development, wholly designing, building and testing race

cars in computer simulation without the need for expensive, resource-heavy scale-model wind tunnel testing. In theory, the team’s pre-season testing programme began several months ago - in the virtual sense - courtesy of what is widely regarded as amongst the most progressive real-time simulator technology in motor sport. When race drivers Timo Glock and Lucas di Grassi begin testing in anger this week, the VR-01 should feel very similar to the car they “drove” on the Wirth Research simulator. KH

Documents

The Maltby News issue 22