Signal 1: Local

Mid Staffs administrators announce date for draft proposals publication

Fri, 24 May 2013 15:55:01 +0100

The administrators of Stafford and Cannock hospitals have announced they'll publish their draft recommendations for the future of services on June 19th.

Following this, the formal consultation period will open on Tuesday 25th June for 30 working days, closing at midnight on Monday 5th August.

Eight public meetings have also been arranged in Stafford, Cannock, Stone and Rugeley.

Alan Bloom, joint Trust Special Administrator, said: "We have been delighted by the level of public engagement in the TSA process to date and we hope that local people will provide their views on our draft recommendations when the formal consultation process starts on Tuesday 25 June 2013.”

Professor Hugo Mascie-Taylor, joint TSA, said: "We value what people think and would like to reassure you that we will carefully review the feedback received from local people, staff and stakeholders and use this to inform our final recommendations to Monitor and the Secretary of State.”

Stafford songstress serenades children with charity single

Fri, 24 May 2013 15:25:38 +0100

A Stafford woman has performed her song that is aiming to raise the profile of a campaign to protect services at Stafford Hospital for young patients.

29 year old mum of two Clare Palmer wrote ‘50,000 People Can't Be Wrong’ following the march through the town in April.

Proceeds from the single will go to the Children’s Ward at Stafford Hospital, where Clare has performed today for patients and their parents.

Stoke reject Nzonzi transfer request

Fri, 24 May 2013 14:53:28 +0100

Stoke City say they have turned down a transfer request from Steven Nzonzi

The club says the French midfielder tabled his request earlier this week before the departure of Tony Pulis from the Britannia Stadium.

Stoke City deny Begovic exit rumours

Fri, 24 May 2013 14:27:43 +0100

Stoke City have dismissed reports in a national newspaper claiming Asmir Begovic is on his way to Liverpool.

It had been suggested that the Bosnian goalkeeper had told the media in his home country he would be joining Liverpool in time for pre-season training in July.

City's Chief Executive Tony Scholes has moved quickly to refute the report.

He said : "Asmir's agent rang me as soon as these stories surfaced. He assures me that Asmir doesn't know the Bosnian journalist and has certainly never spoken to him.

"It's complete fabrication and unfortunately it has been picked up by a paper in this country.

"It's inevitable when a manager parts company with a Club that there's a period of uncertainty and erroneous newspaper reports certainly don't help matters."

Jones signs new Vale contract

Fri, 24 May 2013 06:45:41 +0100

Daniel Jones has signed a new two year contract at Port Vale.

The full back becomes the first of ten players offered new deals to sign on the dotted line.

The 26 year-old, made 16 appearances during the Vale's promotion winning campaign last season.

Concern over impact of gas shortages on ceramics industry

Thu, 23 May 2013 11:48:59 +0100

The government is being asked to intervene to protect gas supplies, and prevent industries such as ceramics and brick makers in Staffordshire having to halt production.

The UK nearly ran out of supplies in March, which caused prices to spike.

There are concerns it could have forced businesses which rely on gas for production to shut down.

For machinery such as kilns that are powered 24 hours a day, turning them off could cause serious damage which could cost millions and take months to repair.

That could in turn lead to losing orders and companies having to cut staff.

At the moment factories are only exempt from shutdown if it could cause more than £50million worth of damage.

Chief Executive of the British Ceramics Confederation Laura Cohen has been speaking to Signal's Jenny Bonson...

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Darren Bowkett is Director of Technical Services at Ibstock Bricks in Newcastle says they are worried about the future unless action is taken...

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Hamilton beats Taylor

Fri, 24 May 2013 06:53:50 +0100

Andy Hamilton produced a superb display to beat Potteries rival Phil Taylor 10-8 in the Dubai Masters.

The Hammer hit back after trailing 4-1 and then 7-6 before clinching victory with a 14-dart finish.

Hamilton said: "To come to Dubai and beat Phil Taylor is unbelievable but I can look forward to playing Michael van Gerwen and I won't dwell on this."

Hamilton faces the Dutchman and newly crowned Premier League champion, after he beat Wes Newton 10-7.

Elsewhere another Stokie, Adrian Lewis was beaten 10-6 by Raymond van Barneveld, while James Wade beat Simon Whitlock 10-8.

Community act over concerns about children's safety

Thu, 23 May 2013 12:29:12 +0100

A community clean-up is helping keep children safe in the Moorlands.

Youngsters have been playing on land off Colliers Way in Biddulph for a number of years but recent reports of fires resulted in police officers concerned about their safety asking for support to resolve the problems.

In response, officers from Staffordshire Moorlands District Council’s Safety and Street Scene teams joined colleagues from Staffordshire’s Police and Fire services to remove potentially dangerous items.

Tyres were found on the site and some had been burned within enclosed dens that children had built prompting fears about the effect of fumes on health.

A burnt item of children’s clothing was also found.

Victoria Ellis, Community Safety and Enforcement Officer at Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, said: "In normal circumstances the land owner would be asked to make the site safe but, due to the nature of the issues, the partners felt we needed to act quickly. With the land owners permission, we worked together to clean the site of hazards.”

In total, eight tyres were removed as well as bricks which had been used to house a fire, a gas cylinder and around ten bags of waste.

Councillor Gill Burton, cabinet member for communities at the council, said: "This is an excellent example of how working in partnership can have real benefits for local communities.

"The quick response to resolving this issue was commendable and I’d like to thank all those who took part in the clean up for helping to ensure children are less at risk.”

Funding to continue Staffordshire's Neighbourhood Justice Panel

Thu, 23 May 2013 11:35:45 +0100

Funding has been agreed for a role that helps bring Staffordshire offenders face-to-face with their victims to make amends.

The funding means that a Neighbourhood Justice Panel coordinator for Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, employed by Victim Support, will be financed for another year, and that a further 26 volunteers can now be trained

There are currently 27 trained volunteers who can facilitate NJPs across Staffordshire, drawn from the communities where the problems occur.

The NJPs give victims an opportunity to tell offenders the real impact of their crime, get answers to their questions and an apology.

They also aim to give offenders the chance to understand the real impact of their actions and to do something positive to repair the damage.

Panels deal with a variety of offences not serious enough to prosecute through the courts, or where cautions and fixed penalty notices are inappropriate, such as criminal damage and anti-social behaviour.

Sue Arnold, Staffordshire’s Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, has been speaking to Signal's Jenny Bonson...

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Banks on managerial situation

Thu, 23 May 2013 08:40:27 +0100

Stoke City's President has spoken for the first time since the departure of manager Tony Pulis.

Legendary goalkeeper Gordon Banks says he was surprised by the departure of Pulis.

The two Roberto's, Di Matteo and Martinez are among the front-runners to take over.

Click on the link below to hear the thoughts of the former Stoke star.

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Tony Pulis speaks out on Stoke City departure

Wed, 22 May 2013 16:49:09 +0100

Tony Pulis says he is 'disappointed' to leave Stoke City.

The League Managers Association has issued a statement on behalf of Pulis following his departure, confirming he left the club on amicable terms.

Pulis said; "I have enjoyed some wonderful times at Stoke City and nobody was prouder than me when, after 23 years of exile from top-flight football we gained Barclays Premier League status.

"Of course, having reached the top you then have to find a way to stay there and develop a strategy for a Club that had no infrastructure in place to compete with the top Championship clubs we had left behind, never mind the top Premier League clubs.

"Over the past five years we have created history by being the only team in this Club’s 150 years existence to remain out of the bottom six in top-flight football for five consecutive seasons.

"Within our five year period in the Barclays Premier League we have featured in four major cup quarter finals, an FA Cup semi-final and Final. Further, we have encountered, progressed and reached the later stages of a major European cup competition, only to lose out to Spanish giants Valencia.

"During this great run of success on the pitch the Club has also been involved in the building and development of a training ground that now compares to any in the Barclays Premier League. Also, the Britannia Stadium has been revamped and now hosts and looks after virtually full-houses of the Club’s great supporters every other week.

"Peter, his family and I have enjoyed every inch of the journey; he has been truly a fantastic man to work with.

"Although I am disappointed, I do understand what he means when he says the Board feels a need to take the Club in a different direction.

"In leaving I am very proud of what we have all achieved.

"My immediate staff lead by David Kemp, my backroom staff and all the training ground staff have been absolutely wonderful.

"To the supporters who have, and rightly so, been congratulated for their outstanding support especially at the Britannia and finally to all the players who have worked under me during the seven year tenure, I give my thanks for what has been a wonderful adventure”.

Legendary stopper raises awareness of Alzheimer's

Wed, 22 May 2013 13:30:49 +0100

Gordon Banks has today been raising awareness of Alzheimer's.

Stoke City's President has joined volunteers for the Alzheimer's Society at Trentham Gardens to get their message across.

There are as many as 800,000 people in the UK with dementia and as many as 6,133 across Staffordshire and Stoke-On-Trent.

Click on the link below to hear the thoughts of Gordon Banks.

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Pejic on departure of Pulis

Wed, 22 May 2013 08:17:17 +0100

Stoke City are today searching for a new manager after the departure of Tony Pulis.

He left the club yesterday by mutual consent following talks with Chairman Peter Coates.

It brings to an end a ten year association with the club after two spells in charge at the Britannia Stadium.

Pulis guided the club to the Premier League, their first ever F.A.Cup final and a Europa League campaign in which they reached the last 32.

Click on the link below to hear the thoughts of former Stoke legend and Signal Radio pundit Mike Pejic.

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Crewe Chairman receives award

Tue, 21 May 2013 09:26:26 +0100

Crewe Alexandra's long serving Chairman has been honoured at the annual League Manager's Association's awards.

John Bowler was given a special merit award for his services to football and Crewe.

Other winners on the night included Sir Alex Ferguson, Roberto Di Matteo, Malky Mackay, Roberto Martinez, Martin Allen and Gary Johnson.

Vincent leaves Vale

Tue, 21 May 2013 09:15:06 +0100

Ashley Vincent has left Port Vale.

The 27 year-old winger has turned down the offer of a new contract.

He scored 8 goals in 38 appearances for the Valiants in their promotion winning campaign.

Turton signs new deal at Crewe

Tue, 21 May 2013 08:51:25 +0100

Crewe Alex youngster Ollie Turton has agreed a new contract.

The 20 year-old midfielder has signed a one year deal.

He made 24 appearances for the club last season and was part of the team that won the Johnstone's Paint Trophy at Wembley.

Pedestrian dies following crash

Mon, 20 May 2013 12:24:32 +0100

A pedestrian involved in a collision in Stafford earlier this month has died.

Peter Desmond Banks, aged 82, was involved in the collision on Weston Road, at its junction with Westhead Avenue, on May 5.

Mr Banks, of Weston Road, died in hospital as a result of his injuries on Thursday 16 May.

His family are being supported by specially trained officers.

An investigation into the circumstances of the collision is ongoing and a report will now be prepared for HM Coroner.

Owen bows out of English football

Mon, 20 May 2013 09:13:51 +0100

Stoke City's Michael Owen played the final game of his career yesterday.

He came on as a second half substitute in the Potters 1-1 draw at Southampton.

The 33 year-old is retiring after a glittering career for both club and country.

Owen made his name at Liverpool, before moving on to Real Madrid, Newcastle, Manchester United and eventually Stoke.

Click on the link below to hear his thoughts after the game at Southampton.

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Stafford Hospital campaign song aiming for chart success

Sat, 18 May 2013 13:15:56 +0100

A charity single is aiming to raise the profile of a campaign to protect services at Stafford Hospital.

29 year old mum of two Clare Palmer (pictured) wrote ‘50,000 People Can't Be Wrong’ following the march through the town in April, inspired by the 50,000-strong crowd which gathered for the protest.

Producers at Stafford-based ‘Red Audio UK’ heard the song as it spread across social media and offered to work with Clare to record it for release.

Its been adopted by the Support Stafford Hospital campaign, who are backing Clare to make it into the charts.

Proceeds from the single will go to the Children’s Ward at Stafford Hospital.

Clare has been speaking to Signal's Jenny Bonson about how it came about...

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Stoke finish 13th

Mon, 20 May 2013 08:52:43 +0100

Stoke City ended their Premier League campaign in 13th place.

The Potters were held to a 1-1 draw at Southampton in their final game of the season.

Peter Crouch had put City in front just after the restart before Rickie Lambert equalised.

The game was also Michael Owen's last before he retires.

Click on the link below to hear the thoughts of boss Tony Pulis.

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Port Vale chairman steps down

Sat, 18 May 2013 08:36:40 +0100

Paul Wildes has stepped down as the chairman of Port Vale.

Norman Smurthwaite has become the sole owner of the club, and will also become Chairman with immediate effect, moving from his current role of Chief Executive.

In a statement Paul said: "This has been an incredibly difficult decision for me and my main regret is that I am leaving the job half-finished.

"It has been clear from my many conversations with Norman that we have conflicting ideas on how to take the club forward. This sometimes happens in business and because of this, I have decided to step down.

"I know there will be a level of disappointment amongst sections of the supporters but this is not a decision I have taken lightly.

"Port Vale is now in a far healthier position than when Norman and I took over and I hope that it continues to prosper under Norman's guidance.

"I'd like to thank Micky Adams, the staff at the club and the supporters for their unwavering support since I became Chairman."

Norman said: "I would like to reassure supporters that it is business as usual.

"There is no-one more disappointed than me that Paul has decided to leave, but this is business and we have to move on.

"The infrastructure of the club is much improved compared to when we took over and we also have League One status. Paul has done an excellent job as Chairman and we thank him - but now is the time to look to the future.

"It's also important to understand that financially, this will not affect the club going forward. I have already invested heavily in Port Vale and will continue to do so. The financial security of the club is not in jeopardy.

"I've had meetings with Micky Adams and will also sit down with club personnel to ensure that we plot the best course of action for this season and beyond.

"The support of our fans has been nothing short of magnificent and I'm certain that will continue."

As well as Paul leaving the club, Operations Director Mike Aspinall and Finance Director Robin Anderson have also left.

W Investment Group, owned by Paul, will provide consultancy services to assist the smooth transition of business operations.

Crowds greet Prince Charles on return to Stoke On Trent

Thu, 16 May 2013 16:45:25 +0100

Prince Charles has returned to Stoke on Trent for the second time this year, to get an update on how his charities are helping regeneration in the city.

This morning His Royal Highness met pupils at The Co-operative Academy in Tunstall, including Industrial Cadets, graduates of his Teach First scheme, and Co-operative Young Leaders.

9 year old Elliott Hanks from Mill Hill Primary School, with HRH The Prince Of Wales during his visit to The Co-operative Academy.

Crowds gathered in Burslem as he visited the empty historic Wedgwood Institute, which his Regeneration Trust is working with the City Council on to come up with a plan which is financially viable, sustainable and of benefit to local people.

The Prince was also shown buildings in Swan Square which have been restored by the Burslem Regeneration Company and the Townscape Heritage Initiative, before meeting young people at Swan Bank Methodist Church who have been taking part in programmes run by The Prince’s Trust and Youth United.

He has held a ‘Place Regeneration Summit’ report-back meeting, which brought together people from the six places the Prince's charities are focusing - which includes Burslem - to share their experiences and talk about the challenges they face.

His Royal Highness also toured Middleport Pottery for the second time this year, and met young people who have been taking part in the first Prince’s Trust ‘Get into Construction’ course on the site.

He also had a go at painting a vase.

Staffordshire Police urge help to reduce time dealing with mental health cases

Thu, 16 May 2013 14:41:44 +0100

Police in Staffordshire responded to 15,000 incidents last year involving people with mental health issues.

The county's Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis is looking at ways to reduce them.

A report he commissioned says that it cost the taxpayer an estimated £600,000, and many incidents could have been dealt with by more appropriate agencies.

The review took place following a series of meetings Commissioner Ellis held with frontline officers to discuss the issues that affected them most.

The report highlights that between January and March 4,405 incidents – 18% of the total number - involved officers dealing with people who could be better served by trained health professionals, rather than crime-fighters.

It also showed:

82% of all mental health-related police incidents were due to concerns for the safety of an adult
such incidents can tie-up as many as four officers for as long as four hours a time
5,504 arrests in 2012 involved an individual with mental health issues
169 people were arrested in 2012 solely for the purpose of a mental health assessment. They spent the equivalent of 61.5 days in custody
doctors in custody spend a quarter of their time dealing with detainees with mental health related needs – at an estimated cost of £290,000 a year.

The Commissioner’s report has already begun to drive national policy as announced in Home Secretary Theresa May’s keynote speech to the Police Federation Annual Conference.

Commissioner Ellis hopes the report will focus discussions with mental health agencies to create round-the-clock response teams, working closely with officers.

He said: "I’m really concerned about the welfare of individuals with mental health problems as their needs are not best dealt with in the criminal justice system. The police service tends to be the first port of call when such people need assistance, or find themselves in difficulty and I think this needs to change.

"I want those with the responsibility and the best and most appropriate skills, to make an effective contribution to the care of such individuals. The police service can’t continue to be the primary place of safety when better, more equipped professionals and facilities are available elsewhere.

"This problem is very common across the country so our work could be the solution, not just for Staffordshire, but for other forces and areas dealing with the same problem. I discussed the matter at length with the Home Secretary when she visited my office last month and I’m delighted that Staffordshire is already driving national policy on such a crucial matter.

"Having specialist teams will free up police time and reduce the number of occasions people with mental health problems come into custody. Too many people are being criminalised when they are ill because a police cell is the only place they can go.”

ACC Julian Blazeby added: "I welcome this review. It supports ongoing work to establish roles and responsibilities and improve services. Expectations on officers dealing with mental health issues, and the demand this puts on their time when they could be fighting crime, have increased.

"We need to find a solution so that mental health sufferers get a better service at the earliest possible opportunity from those best qualified to give it.”

North Staffordshire man campaigning for cyber bullying law change

Wed, 15 May 2013 16:34:45 +0100

A North Staffordshire man is campaigning to improve laws to protect people with learning disabilities from bullying.

Kevin Healey, who suffers from autism, has been a victim himself since childhood.

He has even received online death threats, which left him afraid to leave his home or use his computer.

His campaign has got the support of dozens of celebrities.

Ricky Gervais has got behind the cause and said: "Please support Kevin Healey’s campaign. Bullying has to stop", and Katie Price, whose son Harvey has physical and learning disabilities, said: "I support Kevin’s campaign for anti autism bullying. I do not want my son Harvey to grow up and be bullied and will not stand for it. Kevin is 38 and it’s disgraceful that ignorant and narrow minded people are bullying him and others. Children and adults with autism have enough to deal with on a daily basis without mockery which is totally uncalled for.”

Several well know faces will feature on adverts highlighting the campaign that will be screened on digital billboards from next week.

Its after Amscreen CEO Simon Sugar, son of Lord Sugar, offered to screen the ads for free for two weeks.

Kevin is still looking for sponsorship to pay for billboard posters to be printed and advertising space.

On Thursday, a 'Twitter Storm' is aiming to get #kevsautismcampaign trending.

Kevin has been speaking to Signal's Jenny Bonson about his fight for a change in the law...

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Warning for bikers

Mon, 13 May 2013 14:22:18 +0100

With the weather warming up, more people are getting on their bikes, and the ambulance service for Staffordshire is reminding motorcyclists to stay safe.

West Midlands Ambulance Service is reminding motorcycle riders of the importance of using proper safety equipment and clothing.

One in five people killed on our roads is a motorcyclist and on average, in the region between March and October every year, around 240 motorcycle accidents occur every month, that’s around eight every single day.

Motorcycle Paramedic Mark Hayes (pictured below), who has been riding for 20 years, said: "A significant number of motorcycle crashes result in fatalities or serious injuries. It is important for motorcyclists as well as other motorists to understand their role in the safety of all road users.

"For motorcyclists, a good set of leathers and safety helmet go a long way to minimising injury. Secondly, it is really important for people to concentrate on arriving at their destination safely, rather than as quickly as possible.

"I think I speak for all riders by saying that the thing we want most from our ride is to return safely, in one piece. The last thing your family wants is a policeman delivering devastating news of a fatal accident. Unfortunately, statistics show that on average, one family a day in the UK receives such terrible news.

"As an experienced rider and having dealt with many accidents involving riders, one of the causes of accidents is drivers failing to see the biker because they are more difficult to spot than a car. The common comment from car drivers involved in accidents with motorcyclists is that they never saw the motorcycle until they collided. Contrary to popular belief, motorcycle accidents are not always caused by errors on the part of the motorcyclist. However, motorcyclists have a responsibility to do their part and practice safe driving habits whether they are riding for pleasure or part of their job. All motorists, whether on two, three or four wheels are responsible for respecting the rights of all other drivers no matter the size or type of their vehicle.

"As well as good quality clothing and a helmet, the Trust would ask riders to consider using high visibility clothing, and ensure that the equipment they use is in good condition.

"A significant percentage of motorcycle accidents, particularly fatal motorcycle crashes, occur at relatively high speeds. Unfortunately, even a relatively low speed crash can lead to serious injury, especially if the rider is not wearing appropriate safety clothing. Traumatic brain injuries lead to serious, lifelong consequences for riders and their loved ones. Riding at high speeds only heightens the risk that a crash will lead to serious injury or death."

Stoke On Trent bus station officially opened

Sat, 11 May 2013 10:46:14 +0100

The new bus station in Hanley is being officially opened today.

Lord Mayor Terry Crowe will lead the ceremony as well as unveiling a commemorative plaque at the £15 million facility, which opened its doors to passengers in March.

Up to 120 buses travel through the station every hour, from 5am until midnight.

The event ties in with the renaming of John Street to Lidice Way to commemorate the city’s strong links with the Czech mining village of Lidice.

Stoke-on-Trent has shared a bond with the village since 1942, after Hitler ordered troops to completely destroy the area on June 10.

The massacre inspired city councillor Barnett Stross to launch the ‘Lidice Shall Live’ campaign in the Victoria Hall on September of that year.

It captured the hearts of local coal miners who raised funds to rebuild the village.

A sculpture will be put in front of a 13ft electrical substation, next to the bus station, to commemorate the Lidice Shall Live campaign later this year.

The Lord Mayor has been speaking to Signal's Simon Humphreys about the occassion...

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