Category: Leicester

After attending a local talk by Medical Aid for Palestine (MAP), Dr Dayalan Clarke, who works at Warwick Hospital, was inspired to register as a volunteer to help those in medical need. However, he was refused entry to the West Bank, where he had gone as the leader of a team of breast cancer specialists hoping to spend a week operating, teaching and mentoring in Nablus. Here is his experience in his own words.My wife Vinodhini, a Paediatrician, and I, a Surgeon, both work in Warwick Hospital. Last year we attended an event organised by Justice for Palestinians, Leamington Spa, to raise funds for Medical Aid for Palestine (MAP). The MAP guest speaker for the event was Rohan Talbot, who grew up in South Warwickshire. After listening to an inspirational talk by Rohan on the work that MAP was doing in Gaza and the West Bank, we registered to be volunteers for MAP’s work.Dr Dayalan Clarke, who works in Warwick Hospital, was inspired to register as a volunteer to help those in medical need.I was approached by MAP last year and invited to be involved in a Breast Cancer Mission that was being organised in Nablus, on the West Bank. I had no hesitation at all in signing up to this mission, and it was arranged that I would lead a team of three breast cancer professionals from the UK going out to Nablus to operate, teach and mentor for a week.The following few weeks involved intense discussions with MAP UK on the process and procedures for this assignment, which came with some risks. The greatest hurdle was the entry into the West Bank, a process that was controlled at the border by the Israeli authorities. It was decided by MAP UK that the safest route of entry would be through Jordan, entering Israel through the Sheikh Hussein Bridge crossing. We went through practice interviews with questions that would be asked by the Israeli authorities at the border crossing.Having been prepared for the mission, I set off for Amman from London and was met at the Amman airport by MAP Jordan and checked in to our hotel in Amman. The next morning was an early start to the Sheikh Hussein Bridge crossing. The three British volunteers who were part of this breast cancer mission met up at breakfast in the hotel and made a prompt start at 7am. The drive to the border crossing was rather tense and I was filled with apprehension as to what the next few hours would hold.We were advised that it would be best to cross the border individually, one after the other, and it was decided that I would go first. The passage through the Jordanian passport control was smooth and then we took a bus to the Sheikh Hussein bridge crossing where I was interviewed by a female Israeli officer. The next hour of intense, aggressive interrogation by the Israeli authorities is something I will struggle to forget. It started with the official behind the counter, who then handed over the interrogation to her senior. It involved a series of questions about my visit to the West Bank and my credentials for the visit, followed by long spells where I was left alone in the waiting room and investigations were apparently being carried out with my passport and papers. After an hour of uncertainty and waiting, I was informed that I was being refused entry to the West Bank and was coerced into signing a document that I had been refused entry. Dejected, disappointed and angry, I was put on a bus by the Israeli authorities to return to Jordan. I returned to Amman and was booked on the first available flight back to the UK by the MAP team who were incredibly kind and helpful throughout this process.We do not believe that breast cancer surgeons could possibly represent a threat to Israeli security. The whole process left us feeling that the Israeli authorities would do anything to prevent any form of humanitarian aid being delivered to the Palestinian people, even preventing British medical volunteers entering the West Bank.Continue Reading

Leamington Town Council is inviting residents to share their ideas for the possible use of the third telephone box at the top of the Parade in Clarendon Avenue.The Council has agreed to ‘adopt’ the telephone box following its de-commissioning by BT.Leamington Town Council is inviting residents to share their ideas for the possible use of the third telephone box at the top of the Parade in Clarendon Avenue. Picture supplied.The two others at the same location are already owned by the council.The first telephone box serves as an art box, showcasing small exhibitions throughout the year, most recently displaying last year’s Leamington in Bloom photographic competition entries.Displays are changed regularly and managed by the Friends of Christchurch Gardens.The second telephone box houses a defibrillator.The Council is now asking local residents how the third telephone box could be used.Possible options include another art space, a memorial box, or retaining it as an original telephone box.Cllr Sarah Boad, Mayor of Royal Leamington Spa, said: “We’re pleased to be able to adopt this third telephone box and give it a new lease of life.The other two telephone boxes at this location have been put to good use for the community, and we want to hear from residents about how they would like to see it used.”The Council will consider a range of issues before deciding on the telephone box’s future such as available resources, and ongoing maintenance.Hard copies of the questionnaire will be made available at Leamington Town Hall, the Royal Pump Rooms Information Centre, The SYDNI Centre, Brunswick Hub and Lillington Children’s CentreThe closing date for responses is Friday August 28.Continue Reading

South Warwickshire is full of so many worthwhile charities and good causes. The work that many of these organisations do is often life-changing. That is worth shouting about. The Courier and Weekly News will be running a regular feature to shine a spotlight on the organisations in our area that help people in the community. This time, we spoke to Ruth Freeman, CEO of The Myton Hospices.The beginningThe Myton Hospices has been providing specialist palliative and end of life care across Coventry and Warwickshire for more than four decades.The charity’s story began in 1979, when the Bishop of Coventry established a committee to explore the possibility of creating a local hospice for people with life-limiting illnesses.The Myton Hospices has been providing specialist palliative and end of life care across Coventry and Warwickshire for more than four decades. Photos supplied by The Myton Hospices.Following a community fundraising effort, Myton Hamlet, a former children’s home, was purchased and turned into what is now Warwick’s Myton Hospice.The hospice was officially opened by The Duchess of Kent in September 1982.A day unit opened in Warwick in 1984, followed by a purpose-built inpatient unit in 1998 and a new day unit in 1999.Rugby’s hospice opened in 2002 after local people raised £1million, and Coventry’s hospice followed in 2009 after a £7million community fundraising appeal.Ruth Freeman, CEO of The Myton Hospices. Photo by The Myton HospicesToday, Myton supports people living with life-limiting illnesses from diagnosis through to the end of life, while also providing vital support for their families and loved ones.Ruth said: “Our vision is that everyone in Coventry and Warwickshire can live well towards the end of life and have the opportunity to experience a good, natural death the way they want it to be, where they want it to be and with their loved ones supported.“Everything we do is underpinned by our values of respect, professionalism, valuing every individual, and working together as One Myton.”How the charity evolvedDuchess of Kent officially opening Warwick Myton with Rev John Gibbs in 1982. Photo by The Myton HospicesSince opening, The Myton Hospices has evolved to meet growing demand and the changing needs of patients and families.Ruth said: “Alongside our inpatient units, we now provide a wide range of services both in our hospices and across the community, including Myton at Home, Patient and Carer Wellbeing services, Lymphoedema care, counselling and bereavement support, and education for healthcare professionals.“Our approach has also broadened.“Today, we care not only for people living with life-limiting illnesses but also for the families and carers around them, recognising that hospice care is about supporting the whole family through one of life’s most difficult times.”The Myton Hospice site in Rugby nearing completion in 2002. Photo by The Myton HospicesThe Myton Hospices now also has 25 charity shops, which helps generate vital income as well as providing another way for people to support the charity.Fundraising and awarenessEvery year, Myton supports more than 2,000 patients and their families but the charity, like many, is also under funding pressures.Ruth said: “We care for people living with a wide range of life-limiting illnesses, including cancer, heart disease, respiratory conditions, neurological conditions and organ failure.“Across our inpatient units we have 36 hospice beds, but due to funding pressures we can currently only afford to keep 25 open.“As the only hospice in Coventry and Warwickshire providing specialist palliative and end of life care and inpatient beds, demand continues to grow, and we have waiting lists on most days.”Building work taking place at the Coventry Myton Hospice site in 2008. Photo by The Myton HospicesHow Myton fundraises has also changed.Ruth said: “The funding landscape for hospices has changed dramatically and charities across the UK are facing unprecedented financial pressures.“Our costs continue to rise while statutory funding has failed to keep pace. It now costs more than £15million each year to provide our free services.“With less than 20 per cent of our funding coming from the NHS, we need to raise more than £12million annually through donations, fundraising, retail, lottery, legacies and community support.”She added: “We’re working hard to protect patient care, but the reality is that we currently have hospice beds standing empty, not because they aren’t needed, but because we don’t have the funding to open them.“We’re working alongside Hospice UK to campaign for fair and sustainable hospice funding, while continuing to rely on the incredible generosity of our community to help ensure no one faces the end of life without the care and support they deserve.”Community supportThe support shown by the community every year helps the charity continue to operate.Ruth said: “Myton was built by the community, and more than four decades later it continues to be sustained by that same community spirit.“We’re also incredibly fortunate to have around 1,300 volunteers who give their time across our hospices, shops, events and services.“Their commitment, alongside the generosity of our supporters, is truly invaluable.“Quite simply, without our community, there would be no Myton.”Next year, the charity is marking its 45th anniversary and Ruth said it will be a chance to reflect and strive forward.She said: “It is an opportunity to reflect on everything our community has achieved together and the thousands of families whose lives have been touched by hospice care.“While we’re proud of how far we’ve come, the demand for our services continues to grow.“We have waiting lists on most days and, heartbreakingly, some people die while waiting for a hospice bed, even though we have beds that remain closed because we cannot afford to staff them.“Our ambition is to open all 36 inpatient beds, reduce waiting times and reach more people earlier in their illness, ensuring everyone who needs specialist palliative and end of life care can access it when they need it most.“With the continued community support, we believe that vision can become a reality.”Ruth added: “Myton is a vital community asset, and protecting it is a responsibility we all share.“Whether it’s making a donation, taking part in an event, volunteering, shopping in one of our charity shops or helping raise awareness, every act of support makes a difference.“By supporting Myton, people are helping ensure compassionate, specialist hospice care remains available for families, now and for generations to come.”Continue Reading

Manizja Latifi, the barrister representing the Candy Corner stores, told the court Twana Jamal, was not an owner, director or employee at either shop, and said he had “no control whatsoever” at the mini-marts.She told the court Jamal was a “distant relative” of the owner and on the day BBC News visited the store he was assisting the owner due to “childcare responsibilities”. Latifi said the “online hostility” which followed the BBC News coverage was “shocking” and “very distressing”. “We are looking at dozens and dozens of threats being made on Facebook,” she said. The hearing was told the owner had received phone calls and messages from people threatening to “burn the shop down” if it were to reopen.”We say that if a closure order is made it simply delays risk we are facing, it does not address it,” Latifi said.Latifi added those making threats “cannot be given power” over whether a business trades or does not.She suggested a two-week closure order as well as ensuring Twana Jamal never attends or is employed at either premises would address the risk posed.Magistrate Miss Clifton told the court there was “consensus about this unfortunate disorder” which included personal threats and there was “a risk” to residents who lived locally.She said on the “balance of probability” it was necessary for the premises to remain closed.A BBC investigation found Jamal is believed to have been seeking asylum in the UK. He told us he had applied and was “still waiting”. It is not known what name he used on any application.UK law says anyone who has spent 12 months or more in prison overseas should be refused asylum.The Iraqi Kurd was given a five-year jail sentence in France in 2016, where authorities described him as one of the most successful people smugglers ever caught – earning up to £100,000 a week from moving illegal immigrants across the Channel.At that time, the mode of travel preferred by cross-channel smugglers was freight lorries rather than small boats.

Rushden residents are being asked for their views to help shape the town’s neighbourhood plan for the next five years.The neighbourhood plan will be updated this summer to help guide future decisions until 2031.The public consultation taking place this summer will build on the adopted Rushden Neighbourhood Plan from 2018, including policies covering areas such as housing, employment, design, the town centre, green spaces, heritage, biodiversity, transport and community facilities.A Rushden Town Council spokesman said: “Rushden Town Council encourages everyone with an interest in the future of the town to take part and share their views.The consultation runs from Friday, 24 July to Friday, 18 September“Feedback received during the consultation will help inform the final version of the plan before it progresses through the next stages of the neighbourhood planning process.”Once the consultation period, which runs from Friday, July 24, to Friday, September 18, is completed, the plan will be submitted to North Northants Council for independent examination.A public drop-in event will be held at Rushden Independent Wesleyan Church this Saturday (July 25) from 10am until 2pm providing residents with an opportunity to view the draft plan, ask questions and find out more about how to take part in the consultation.The consultation will be available both online and in person when it opens on Friday, and in the meantime questions or comments can be submitted to [email protected].Continue Reading

Leicester’s major boundary extension has been called a “big mistake” by residents and business owners in one village that’s set to become part of the city.The concerns have been raised after it was confirmed local government reorganisation will see Leicester City’s border expand into towns and villages such as Great Glen, Oadby, Wigston, and more, creating a much bigger Leicester than we see today.All councils will also be abolished to make way for two new unitary authorities – one for the city and one to represent Leicestershire and Rutland.The village of Narborough will be included in the new city boundary.Sheila Swann, 74, who lives in Enderby, said she didn’t agree with the city expansion.She said: “We have to keep it [the village] in the county, not with Leicester City.“I’d rather see things as they are at the moment. Leicester should be as it is and keep the county as it is, not merge it”.John Moran, 76, who lives in nearby Littlethorpe, said he fears people would be “left out” by the move.He added: “When you have a larger centralised system, people are going to be left out”.Mr Moran also said he felt that Narborough and the surrounding villages’ needs would “very unlikely” be met by the expansion plan.He said: “City dwellers are going to have some needs that are greater or different than our area or other areas.“It’s a political idea and sometimes political ideas don’t work for the whole population”.Small business owner Lorraine Lythe lives in Enderby and runs Myrtle’s Home and Me. She said she felt the village was being “dragged into the city”.The 60-year-old added: “I think it’s a big mistake.“People still want their separate identity from city to village. I have a five-year business plan that I will take each year as it comes, rather than assume, and we will see what they bring forward for it [businesses].“I love Narborough being a village, that’s why I’m here. I’d like to have been in the city but the city rates are now extortionate so I’m hoping we’re not going to be dragged into that”.Christine Hushwaite, 76, who lives in Enderby, said Narborough and surrounding villages “were nowhere near the city” and she didn’t agree with the plans.She added: “I know people don’t agree with it because of how many people on Facebook don’t agree with it. I don’t know anyone who agrees with it”.Joe Cox, 22, who lives in Littlethorpe, said he felt like the move would lead to an “impact on services” with “response times being slower”.He added: “Costs will increase, taxes on certain things and I think there will be an impact.“I’m not necessarily saying everything runs smoothly now, but I think we’ll definitely see an impact going forward.“I wouldn’t say it’s very fair. I understand the Government’s got a job to do and they think this is in the best interest and there’s not a lot we can do about it.“I don’t think it’s going to be a positive change”.The Labour Party, who have spearheaded local government reorganisation, said the move will “give residents a one stop shop for all their services”.A spokesperson added: “Labour politicians from across Leicestershire will work together with everyone to ensure whatever the outcome of the process we all focus on what matters most – delivering the best services possible for residents.By Chris Harper, Local Democracy Reporter 

Five fire engines were sent to Skegness beach after a fire broke out near the seafront on Friday evening (17 July).Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service said it received the first report of the blaze at 7.20pm.Crews tackled the fire, which caused significant damage to more than 1,000 square metres of shrubbery before being fully extinguished.Images and footage posted on social media showed large plumes of smoke drifting from the sand dunes towards Skegness Pier.Members of the public were advised to stay away from South Parade car park and the beach while firefighters dealt with the incident.The cause of the fire has not yet been officially confirmed.

The showpiece event is being played in mid-summer instead of September as it has been for many years, and the sun shone in Birmingham.Hundreds of Northants fans made the short trip to the second city to back Darren Lehmann and his team, and they were rewarded with a 17-run win over Somerset in the semi-final.Chris Lynn top-scored with 39 as the Steelbacks were bowled out for 143, but then David Willey and Ben Sanderson both claimed three wickets as the west country side were restricted to 126 for nine in reply.The win means the Steelbacks will play Hampshire Hawks in the final, which is scheduled to start at 6.45pm.Photographer Peter Short was on hand to capture the Shoe Army enjoying their day out.See the Chron sport section for the report and reaction to the win over Somerset. 1. In the pink…The Steelbacks supporters enjoying the sunshine and their team’s semi-final win over Somerset at Edgbaston (Picture: Peter Short) Photo: Peter Short2. Getting their voices heardThe Steelbacks supporters enjoying the sunshine and their team’s semi-final win over Somerset at Edgbaston (Picture: Peter Short) Photo: Peter Short3. Back to blackThe Steelbacks supporters enjoying the sunshine and their team’s semi-final win over Somerset at Edgbaston (Picture: Peter Short) Photo: Peter Short4. Wendell’s in the houseThe Steelbacks supporters enjoying the sunshine and their team’s semi-final win over Somerset at Edgbaston (Picture: Peter Short) Photo: Peter Short

Richard Flamson (image credit: Persimmon Homes North Midlands)

Persimmon Homes North Midlands has strengthened its team with the appointment of a new construction director. 

Richard Flamson joins Persimmon Homes from Vistry, where he also served as construction director, bringing more than 25 years of experience in housebuilding and construction.

He has built his career through a range of operational roles, progressing from site manager to construction manager before moving into senior leadership positions.

Flamson said: “I am delighted to be joining Persimmon Homes North Midlands and look forward to working with the team to build on the region’s strong performance.

“I’m excited to contribute to the continued success of the business and help maintain the highest standards of quality, safety and customer service as we deliver much-needed new homes and support the communities we build in.”

Charlotte Goode, managing director North Midlands, added: “We are pleased to welcome Richard to the North Midlands business. He brings a wealth of experience from across the housebuilding sector and a strong operational background that will be invaluable as we continue delivering high-quality homes across the region.”

A new park has been officially opened in Leamington.The Lord Lieutenant of Warwickshire and Mayor of Leamington joined Warwick district councillors, officers and project partners to mark the opening of the first phase of Elizabeth Park.Named in memory of the late Queen Elizabeth II, the district’s newest public space, located off Princes Drive, is being created through a partnership between Warwick District Council and Homes England.The new park will be developed in three phases, the first of which is now complete and open to the public, with new footpaths, landscaped grassland and sports area, wildflower meadows and tree planting.Photographed with officers from the Warwick District Council project team and Homes England; Councillor Sidney Syson (WDC), Councillor Bill Gifford (WDC),Councillor Will Roberts (WDC), Councillor Chris King(WDC), Councillor Jess Melrose (WDC), Councillor Sarah Boad (Mayor of Royal Leamington Spa), Tim Cox Lord Lieutenant of Warwickshire, Councillor Pam Redford (Chairman WDC), Councillor Andrew Day (WDC). Credit: Warwick District Council.Phase two of Elizabeth Park will follow the planned relocation of the Edmondscote athletics facility estimated for 2028, with the final stage linking the extended park to existing green spaces west of the athletics track along the River Avon.Councillor Pam Redford, chairman of Warwick District Council, said: “We are very proud to see the opening of the first phase of Elizabeth Park.“This exciting project will not only create a wonderful new public park but will also provide our district with a legacy in memory of Her Late Majesty the Queen.”Councillor Will Roberts, the council’s portfolio holder for heighbourhood added: “The development of Elizabeth Park is part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing green spaces across the district and improving accessibility for walking, cycling and sport.”We also hope that, in time, the enlarged parkland will contribute to the wider green corridor connecting the towns of Leamington and Warwick.”Continue Reading