Update

Josh Dubovie to Star on Basfest Stage

2008-06-21T06:27:00.000-07:00

A talented teenage singer tipped as the next Michael Buble has been revealed as a late act for this year’s Basildon Festival. Billericay star, Josh Dubovie, will be playing on the main stage at the upcoming two-day festival organised by Basildon Council in Gloucester Park.

The 17-year-old, who recently won the Southend United Blues Idol competition, will be performing a mix of swing music from people such as Frank Sinatra and Michael Buble.

Josh, who is studying at the Billericay School sixth form, is strongly backed to become a future stage and screen star. As well as performing in theatre shows such as Les Miserable and My Fair Lady, he has also appeared in Hollyoaks. His television careers looks set to take off after being shortlisted to play a major role in the third series of the Channel 4 show, Skins.

Josh will be performing on the main stage at the Basildon Festival on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 July at 5pm. Among the other artists booked to appear at the free festival include X-Factor finalists, Journey South, and tribute acts for Amy Winehouse and The Beatles.

John Baron Condemns EU Leaders' Arrogance

2008-06-20T05:55:00.000-07:00

Speaking in the House of Commons today on a proposal to establish an audit of the costs and benefits of UK membership of Europe, John Baron MP highlighted the arrogance of some European leaders who have tried to dismiss the Irish ‘no’ vote on the Lisbon Treaty (otherwise known as the EU Constitution).

Technically, the Treaty has to be ratified by all Member States in order to become law, but some leaders are already looking for a way to circumvent the result of last week’s referendum. The Irish were the only voters in Europe to be given a say on the new Treaty.

During the debate, John highlighted some of the remarks made by EU leaders:

· Wolfgang Schaeuble, German Interior Minister: “a few million Irish cannot decide on behalf of 495 million Europeans”

· Daniel Cohn-Bendit, Euro-Green leader: “it is not truly democratic that less than a million people should decide the fate of half a billion Europeans”

· Axel Schafer, SPD Bundestag leader: “with all respect for the Irish vote, we cannot allow the huge majority of Europe to be duped by the minority of a minority of a minority”

· Yves Leterme, Belgian Prime Minister: “we need to examine the existing possibilities to ensure in any case the entry into force of the treaty and to associate Ireland with it”

· Donald Tusk, the Polish Prime Minister: “irrespective of the results of the referendum in Ireland ... Europe will find a way of implementing this treaty”

· Lopez Garrido, Spanish Secretary of State for the EU: the Lisbon Treaty “will be applied, albeit a few months late”

· Jose Barroso, Portuguese President of the European Commission: “the treaty is not dead, the treaty is alive and we will try to work to find a solution”

Afterwards, John said: “The arrogance of the European leaders in trying to ignore people’s views on the future direction of the EU is breathtaking and illustrated yet again in their reaction to the Irish ‘no’ vote.

“There is a democratic deficit at the heart of Europe. 26 out of the 27 countries ratifying this treaty will not be given the opportunity to hold a referendum. Gordon Brown bottled out of a referendum after promising one in the Labour Party manifesto of 2005. The Irish were the only people in Europe to have a say and they have spoken for all of us – an inconvenient truth for the European leaders.

“Given that it needed ratification by every nation, the Treaty should now be declared dead once and for after the Irish vote. The fact that it hasn’t proves this democratic deficit exists.”

Shadow Minister for Health Visits Basildon's Mental health Unit

2008-06-18T09:56:00.000-07:00

Stephen Metcalfe, Prospective Conservative Member of Parliament for South Basildon & East Thurrock, today met with Anne Milton MP, Conservative Shadow Minister for Health, Dr Patrick Geoghegan, chief executive of the South Essex Partnership NHS Trust (Sept), and Eunan MacIntyre, Director of Inpatient & Emergency Services and Mrs Lorraine Cabel, Chairman of South Essex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust to tour the recently opened facilities at the Basildon Hospital Mental Health Unit.

Anne Milton MP, a former nurse who has a background in caring for those with mental illness was impressed by the facilities and talked at length with Dr Geoghegan and Dr MacIntyre. The changes in procedure and treatment have enabled the centre to deliver better care, more quickly while reducing the need for patients to spend extended periods with the unit.

Dr Geoghegan has stated: “Mental illness is now the number one reason that people are off work - through anxiety, stress and depression where it used to be back pain. Yet the investment is not going into helping these people and supporting them."

He believes the recently opened facilities in Basildon and Rochford, and the imaginative approach adopted by the unit has seen real improvements in the way patients are cared for and has gone someway to compensate for that lack of investment.

Stephen Metcalfe said: he too was very impressed with what has been achieved in Basildon, the rapid response to patient needs and the desire to help those with mental illness back in to the community as quickly as appropriate has to be welcomed. He commented that there is a stigma surrounding mental illness and anything that can be done to break down that prejudice and help patients back into the wider community is excellent.

Photo: (LtoR)
Anne Milton, Conservative Shadow Minister for Health, Stephen Metcalfe, Prospective Conservative Member of Parliament for South Basildon & East Thurrock, Mrs Lorraine Cabel, Chairman of South Essex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and Dr Patrick Geoghegan, chief executive of the South Essex Partnership NHS Trust (Sept).

Government Announces NHS Co-payments Review

2008-06-18T09:48:00.000-07:00

During Health Questions in Parliament on Tuesday, in response to a question from John Baron MP (Billericay), Secretary of State Alan Johnson introduced a review of NHS policy on co-payments. This followed the widely-reported recent case of John’s late constituent Mrs Linda O’Boyle. In his follow-up question, John welcomed the news but warned that this review must not be allowed to kick the issue into the long grass. Alan Johnson responded by saying that Cancer Tsar Mike Richards will report back in October.

Commenting afterwards, John said: “I very much welcome this review, as will campaigners up and down the country. It does suggest movement by the Government. The ban on co-payments was cruel, because it resulted in NHS care being withdrawn from dying patients, and illogical because co-payments already exist in the NHS. I hope Mike Richards takes these points into account.

“My only concern is that the review puts this issue on the back-burner, although we have been promised a report in October. The case of Linda O’Boyle proves that patients want to benefit from co-payments now – not in a year’s time.

“I shall be monitoring progress closely and hope to meet with Mike Richards shortly.”
Terms of Reference for the Richards review:
The Review will be led by Professor Mike Richards, National Clinical Director for cancer, and will report by October 2008 to the Secretary of State for Health. The Review’s objectives are:

- To examine current policy relating to patients who choose to pay privately for drugs that are not funded on the NHS and who, as a result, are required to pay for the care that they would otherwise have received free on the NHS.
- To make recommendations on whether and how policy or guidance could be clarified or improved.
- In making recommendations, to take into account:
the importance of enabling patients to have choice and personal control over their healthcare; and
the need to uphold the founding principle of the NHS that treatment is based on clinical need not ability to pay, and to ensure that NHS services are fair to both patients and taxpayers.
The Review will take account of:
- the Government’s wider strategy for improving the quality and effectiveness of NHS services; and
- developing policy and practice arising from the NHS Next Stage Review and Constitution.

Dial Secures over £330,000

2008-06-18T09:31:00.000-07:00

Dial , the advice and information service for the disabled, has been awarded a substantial grant by the National Lottery. Based in the Basildon Centre and supported by the council, the Basildon and south Essex group has won its highest ever award of £330,580.

The cash will go to finance a project to cater for the needs of people with disabilities and their carers in Basildon, Thurrock and Rochford. Dial Basildon and South Essex helps people to access information, in one centre, supplied by staff who know and understand the problems disabled people face.

The project will now recruit more volunteers to provide the service and improve the training available to existing volunteers. It will also extend a home visiting service for housebound people over 55.

Jan Stevens, who runs the Basildon and south Essex scheme said: “This is great news for Basildon and south Essex. It will allow us to expand this invaluable service and bring added confidence and well being to some of the region’s most vulnerable residents."

Dial will now be looking to recruit two more staff members and additional volunteers.

Carnival Road Closures at Weekend

2008-06-18T09:29:00.000-07:00

The following roads will be temporarily closed to allow the Basildon and Pitsea carnival to pass safely:
Leinster Road, Ballards Walk, Great Knightleys, Round Acre, part of the town centre, Link Way, Ghyllgrove and Burnt Mills Road will all be closed between 10am and 4pm on Saturday 21 June.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area or find alternative routes.

John Baron & the Barn Hall Lobby

2008-06-18T09:27:00.000-07:00

John Baron MP and local residents will be lobbying the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government outside on Monday, 23 June at 11.00am.

The aim of this lobby is to illustrate the strength of opposition to the development of Barn Hall, and to present a 3,163 signature petition. The lobby takes place one day before the public inquiry on 24 June (due to last four days) at the St George’s Suite, The Basildon Centre, Basildon.

John wrote last month to Hazel Blears requesting a brief meeting on the day to include local residents, but as yet has not had a response.

Dartford Crossing Charges Plan

2008-06-13T05:36:00.000-07:00

Summary: The cost of Dartford Crossing tolls is to go up to £1.50, Dart-TAG will remain at £1.00 and special rates are to come in for local residents. The new measures will be introduced sometime in the Autumn --- more nearer the date.

Rosie Winterton (Minister of State, Department for Transport) in a written ministerial statement issued on 12th June has outlined Government plans for the new charging regime affecting motorists using the Dartford Crossing.

The statement (sourced from Hansard) reads as follows:
In December 2006 we consulted on proposed changes to charges for use of the Dartford crossing to address continuing congestion pressures. The proposals were to tailor charges better to the conditions at the crossing, including raising cash charges to £1.50 for cars in the daytime and removing charges altogether at night when traffic flows more freely.

In response to that consultation exercise there were calls to introduce a discount scheme for local residents. The Government announced that it would develop a discount scheme for consultation, whilst going ahead with the proposed increases.

We launched a consultation on the local discount scheme on 16 February 2008, and it closed on 16 May 2008. 67 responses were received.

The Government are today publishing a summary of responses and our conclusions following the consultation exercise. I am placing copies in the Library of the House.

The Government have taken careful note of the responses received and have concluded that the scheme should be implemented as proposed, subject to removing to the requirement for an initial sum to be credited to accounts.

The key proposals relating to eligibility, the annual administration fee, entitlement to 50 free journeys, and journeys charged at 20p thereafter, are confirmed.

The Government expect to implement the scheme in the autumn, along with the other changes on which we consulted in 2006-07. This included raising cash charges for cars from £1 to £1.50.

The Government wish to highlight the fact that car drivers who opt to pay via a Dart-TAG and account will still be able to cross for £1, regardless of where they live.

We are aiming to introduce the changes in the autumn and we will confirm the precise date when the order is laid.

Gateway Countdown

2008-06-12T12:07:00.000-07:00

Gateway FM goes live on 87.7 on June 23rd to provide the area's brightest, best and most local radio of all.

Courier's Open Day

2008-06-12T12:04:00.000-07:00

Basildon's newest courier company is opening the doors at its new Head Office in Stella House, Luckyn Lane, Basildon on Thursday 26 June 2008 from 3.30pm until 6.30pm for any local businesses wishing to discuss their delivery requirements.

Managing Director of Abby Couriers, Mark Giles, said: "Since the press coverage of the opening of our new Head Office in Basildon we have had a number of calls from businesses in the Thames Gateway corridor wanting to visit us, see our operation and discuss their logistical requirements. That high level of interest is why we are now opening our offices for anyone who wishes to come along and see us in action."

Win a Chance to Perform at Basfest

2008-06-11T11:15:00.000-07:00

For bands more used to playing in their garage or local pub, this is the chance of a lifetime. Basildon Council and Essex FM are searching for an amateur group to perform live in front of thousands of revellers at this year’s Basildon Festival.

In a battle of the bands competition, one talented group will win the opportunity to perform a live 45 minute slot on the main stage. They will join a Basfest line up which already includes X-Factor finalists, Journey South, and a band described as the best Beatles tribute act in the world.

Paul Brace, manager of Basildon Council’s cultural services, said: “We’re searching for the best unsigned band in Essex to play live at this year’s Basildon Festival. More than 40,000 people packed out Gloucester Park over two days last year so it won’t be for the faint-hearted.

“This is the first time we have thrown open a slot for an amateur band and we’re inviting groups of all ages and types to apply. Not only will the winners get the chance to perform alongside some seasoned professionals, they could also get the big break they are looking for.”

Five bands will be short listed by a panel of judges before Essex FM listeners vote for a winner. Among the other acts featuring at the festival is the ultra-talented and unusual tribute performer presenting her soul singer 'Amy Winehouse'. Backed by a full band, the Amy Winehouse Experience will perform hits from the award-winning album Back to Black, including Valerie and Rehab.

There will also be a touch of West End glamour as singers and dancers from The Buddy Holly Show celebrate the life of one of the most influential rock n rollers of the early 50s.

The group must be available to play on Sunday 6 July. The free Basildon Festival is taking place in Gloucester Park on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 July from 11am to 7.30pm.

For more information and to apply visit the Essex FM website. Entries must be received by 20 June.

New Tools in the Fight Against Local Low-level Crime

2008-06-11T11:11:00.000-07:00

Antisocial behaviour, speeding cars, noise, graffiti, litter vandalism and drugs have never been problems local people feel they could tackle with confidence.

But things are changing after Neighbourhood Action Panels (NAPs) started springing up all over Basildon district. They first arrived in 2007 and are made up of local residents and their organisations who feel they have a contribution to make or who just want to get involved in protecting and improving their neighbourhoods and making them pleasant places to live in.
These include representatives from the local community, tenants associations, children and young people, voluntary agencies, schools, churches and others.

The panels are led by Essex police in partnership with the local community safety partnership (CDRP). They cover a fixed area, hold regular meetings, look closely at problems raised by local people or other community engagement methods, agree on local priorities and decide on realistic and achievable action to deal with them.

The key to their success in drawing in public support has been that although police are involved, they do not run the groups. The target problem areas are decided by local residents themselves.
This sense of ownership and being listened to has given a considerable boost to local confidence in the scheme.

The problems raised will be investigated by the local policing team who will then advise residents on an action plan to tackle them. Priorities are set by the community without influence from the police.

The police, through this support which is making these groups possible, are determined this initiative will not be a talking shop - it is designed to produce firm but considered action to deal with those issues deemed by local people as their priorities.

Basildon’s community safety partnership, a major supporter, has praised the success of the scheme so far. The partnership is encouraging residents to monitor the progress and types of problems being dealt with in their area by clicking on to Essex police’s website.

There they will find area by area coverage of the problems local people have raised, the actions being planned to tackle them and the results.

It will also give information on how to get involved and how to contribute – anonymously if necessary – in raising issues which might be tackled.

Essex police can put local residents in touch with their local neighbourhood specialist officer through their non emergency hotline 0300 333 4444, or via the Essex Police website at www.essex.police.uk.

Council Spends Over £2000 on New Trees for Billericay

2008-06-11T11:08:00.000-07:00

MORE than £2,000 is being spent on new tree planting in Billericay. Basildon Council is planning to plant eight trees between the roundabout of the A176 at Great Burstead and the junction of lower Southend Road at a cost of £1,000.

Half the trees will be Scots pine, a native evergreen tree, and the other half will be liquid amber, an American tree chosen for its autumn colour.

The council has also just spent £1,100 planting ten new trees along Noak Hill Road, near The Hoe. The walnut, lime and beach trees cost £1,000.

John Baron Responds to Article in the Sun

2008-06-11T10:59:00.000-07:00

Commenting on the article on him in The Sun today over his opposition to 42-day detention without charge, Billericay and District MP John Baron said:

“I realise how sensitive this issue is for Mr and Mrs Taylor, but 42-day detention without charge would not have prevented the terrible events of 7/7 and will not protect us against a future attack: the Government admits as much, because the purpose of 42 days is to prolong investigation after a plot is uncovered and not to prevent it.

“No evidence has been produced to show that 42 days is necessary. The Director of Public Prosecutions has argued it is not needed and even the Security Services have not called for it. Parliament should legislate on the basis of evidence, not suspicion.

“During my service in Northern Ireland, I saw how internment became a recruiting sergeant for terrorism. 42-day detention would do the same thing. We risk doing the terrorists work for them if we now dismantle our hard-won liberties.

“Figures from Liberty clearly show that throughout Europe and North America, where the terror threat is no less than in Britain, the limit on pre-charge detention is less than one week. Why then do we need six?

John spoke out against proposals for 42-day detention on the Bill’s second reading. He is today seeking an opportunity to speak on the Report stage.

Alarming Mortgage Repossession Figures

2008-06-11T07:57:00.000-07:00

Richard Spring (West Suffolk, Conservative)asked the Secretary of State for Justice how many mortgage possession orders were made in each county court in the East of England in each of the last five years.

Bridget Prentice (Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Ministry of Justice; Lewisham East, Labour)stated in a written answer that the following table shows the number of mortgage possession orders made in all county courts in the East of England since 2003.

These figures do not indicate how many houses have been repossessed through the courts, since not all the orders will have resulted in the issue and execution of warrants of possession.

The civil procedure rules state that all claims for the repossession of land must be commenced in the district in which the land is situated. However, county courts' jurisdictions are not coterminous with the borough boundaries, and therefore any single court's repossession actions are likely to relate to homes in a number of different boroughs.

Number of mortgage( 1) possession orders( 2, 3) made in the county courts ( 4) in the east of England

(1) Mortgage possession data includes all types of lenders whether local authority or private.
(2 ) The court, following a judicial hearing, may grant an order for possession immediately. This entitles the claimant to apply for a warrant to have the defendant evicted. However, even where a warrant for possession is issued, the parties can still negotiate a compromise to prevent eviction.
(3 ) Includes suspended orders and orders made.
(4 ) Does not include the small number of possession actions entered in the High Court.
(5) The rollout of the Possession Claim On-Line (PCOL) system in late 2006 has affected the availability of court-level data on mortgage possession orders. As a result it is only possible to provide court-level figures for those courts with direct on-site PCOL access for 2007. Therefore, upward adjustments have been made for the missing data at HMCS regional level, provided at the end of the table.
Source: Ministry of Justice

Parliamentary Debate: NHS Co-payments

2008-06-11T05:17:00.000-07:00

The following is a transcript of an important parliamentary debate reported in Hansard, in which local MP, John Baron, raised the important question of co-payments in the NHS as featured in yesterday's News blog on this site.

John Baron (Billericay, Conservative)
I am grateful for this opportunity to raise the case of my late constituent, Linda O'Boyle, who died earlier this year, sadly, after treatment for bowel cancer. Her case is both terribly sad and hugely frustrating. She was a warm-hearted woman with a great sense of humour who gave much of her life to the national health service and helping others. When she became ill, she had every right to expect that the NHS would be there for her, but it was not. The health service let her down in her hour of need.

Many patients have suffered because the NHS does not allow co-payments, which involve a patient paying privately for a drug not funded by the NHS while continuing to receive the basic NHS package of care. If patients want to top up their care, Government policy requires that free NHS treatment be withdrawn. Often, treatment is eventually delivered within the NHS setting, but the patient is presented with the bill for all aspects of care. Sometimes, as in the O'Boyle case, the patient is forced to go private for everything.

The facts of the case are straightforward. Linda was diagnosed with bowel cancer, and at first her treatment at Basildon and Southend hospitals went well. However, it was decided that she needed a second line of treatment with irinotecan earlier than planned. Then her consultant had to inform the family that treatment was not working, which came as a great shock. The desire to save or extend the life of a loved one is immensely strong. The family were desperate to find another treatment, and the consultant suggested that only cetuximab offered a realistic hope of extending Linda's life.

However, as we know, cetuximab is not available on the NHS, as it was turned down by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence on the grounds of cost-effectiveness. Whatever one's views about NICE and the fairness of some of its decisions, the relevant fact is simply that state-funded health care was unable to provide Mrs. O'Boyle with the treatment that her clinician said she needed.

Frank Field (Birkenhead, Labour)
The hon. Gentleman talks about "free" and "state-funded" NHS care. I remind him of his Thatcherite roots. We taxpayers, including Linda, pay for our care.

John Baron (Billericay, Conservative)
I accept that point 100 per cent. Mrs. O'Boyle had paid for her care through her taxes, of course, which is why her care should have been free, to use my terminology. She should not have had to pay for it. That is the cause of the problem.

Frank Field (Birkenhead, Labour)
If one accepts that we pay for our NHS care at a different time than we draw the benefit, the false dichotomy that the Government have erected falls to the ground. One wishes to top up the payments that one has already made. Given that the Government want to encourage public-private sector arrangements, I find it extraordinary that they do not want public-individual citizen projects such as the one Linda wished to do.

John Baron (Billericay, Conservative)
I fully accept where the right hon. Gentleman is coming from. I take his point on board, particularly considering—I shall come to this point later—that in many other areas of the NHS, patients can top up without having their care withdrawn. That is a contradiction that the Government need to resolve.

The family decided to pay privately for the drug. Mrs. O'Boyle had hoped to receive cetuximab at the family's expense at Southend hospital while continuing to receive care as a cancer patient. It is worth emphasising that the family were exceptionally happy at that stage with the care that they had received within the NHS. The issue is not about doctors, nurses or consultants, for they did an excellent job of caring for Linda as far as they were allowed; it is about Government policy, which prevents them from doing their job.

One might have expected the NHS to do everything possible to help Linda O'Boyle—after all, its purpose is to extend life—but the family were told that that would not be the case. The family ended up paying for all the necessary treatment, including care that ought to have been available on the NHS. It is difficult to escape the conclusion that the NHS effectively walked away from a dying woman in her moment of need, a woman who had given most of her life to the NHS.

Naturally, the cost to the family was huge. They also had to meet the cost of private consultations, prescription charges and home nursing care and pay the full market price for irinotecan and cetuximab. Taking everything into account, the total cost was around £14,000. It would have been £50,000 if Linda had survived the full six months of treatment. Seeking to extend the life of loved ones is not an aspiration unique to the rich. People are prepared to make great sacrifices to hold on to someone they love.

With the family's consent, I raised the issue with some newspapers, and it has received very good coverage during the past few weeks. Such publicity is never easy for the relatives involved, but Mr. O'Boyle and his sons took the decision to go public because they feel strongly that what happened to Linda was wrong and must not happen to other people. I commend them for that attitude. Mr. O'Boyle and one of his sons have joined us for this debate. Many other patients all over the country find themselves in similar situations. The Sunday Times, among others, has done splendid work to give them a voice. The best-known example is probably the breast cancer patient Colette Mills.

As for the arguments used by the Government to prevent patients from making co-payments, I have the benefit of anticipating some of the Minister's remarks, as I wrote to the Secretary of State earlier in the year about the issue. The reply that I received was, in my view, confused and inhumane. Let us be clear: co-payments are not about taking care from any other patient in order to help another patient go private. A drug is paid for privately, not subsidised by the state. The arrangement represents a move to a Pareto optimum. One patient benefits without any other patient being harmed.

The Government say that co-payments must be banned because otherwise we would be treating patients unfairly and creating a two-tier system, in which all patients would not be treated equally. That argument misses the point. Simply because a patient opts for some non-NHS treatments does not mean that the NHS cannot treat all patients equally in respect of the state-funded care that they receive. Each patient can still receive the same level of NHS care. Patients seeking co-payments are not asking for special favours, preferential treatment or a hand up from the NHS; they are simply asking for their standard package of care to be continued alongside the top-up. Patients whose NHS care has been withdrawn feel, understandably, that they are the ones being discriminated against because of their ability to pay. That cannot be right.

There is a world of difference between treating all patients equally and penalising some patients because they have the means to top up their treatment. It makes a mockery of the Government's second argument for banning co-payments, which is that a ban is somehow needed to keep the NHS free at the point of need. However, in the case of Colette Mills or Linda O'Boyle, the NHS is the very opposite of free at the point of need. Not all drugs are available on the NHS, because NICE turns down some treatments. Also, free NHS care is withdrawn when patients try to top up. That is not care free at the point of need.

The Government have a novel way of trying to get around the problem: they hide behind semantics. The Government argue that NHS guidance states clearly that someone cannot simultaneously be an NHS and a privately funded patient of the same NHS hospital within the same episode of care and that all NHS treatment for the same condition, such as bowel cancer, counts towards the same episode of care. Ostensibly, it is because the Government do not want to mix private and public funding, but that argument is clearly absurd. For one thing, some drugs are available free on the NHS and others are not. How can two treatments be part of the same episode of care if one is free and the other is not?

If the health service itself has chosen to differentiate between treatments through the NICE process, it is hypocritical to condemn patients for seeking to do likewise. Michael Summers of the Patients Association made that point in a similar way. He suggested that the public does not see the same episode of care as being a crucial distinction. At the end of the day, the public will just say that care is care. The Government are hiding behind the semantics of how one defines an episode of care, because they lack the courage, or perhaps even the initiative, to deal with unjust policy. All that is required is an open mind, and then guidance can be changed.

Another reason why the Government's position is perverse is that co-payments are already happening throughout the NHS and other public services. If I go to an optician as an NHS patient, and receive a free pair of glasses, nothing is to prevent me from using my own money to buy contact lenses—NHS care is not withdrawn. Likewise, if I go to a dentist and have an NHS filling, and then pay privately to have teeth cleaning or whitening, NHS care is not withdrawn. Meanwhile, we have private beds in NHS hospitals, using NHS equipment and staff. Again, patients do not have other aspects of care withdrawn. We could look outside the NHS: state education is not withdrawn simply because a child has access to private tuition. The state education system is there for everyone, regardless of whether private tuition takes place—state education is not withdrawn.

What is so different about cancer drugs and treatment? If co-payments are good enough for teeth whitening and contact lenses, why are they not good enough when it comes to prolonging, extending and perhaps even saving life? Many people are asking those questions outside this Chamber, but no one seems to have an answer—certainly not the Government. Britain's cancer survival rates still lag behind the European average, partly because we do not have the same access to the best new drugs. In that respect, we are the poor patients of Europe, which is shameful given that Britain is home to some of the leading drug companies in the world, and to some of the leading cancer research institutes in Europe. The NHS needs all the help that it can get. If anything, we should be empowering, not penalising, patients who opt for co-payments.

This issue will not go away. Many exciting new drugs are coming through the pipeline, and it is forecast that they will be available over the coming decade. Patients and their clinicians will, understandably, want to use them, but NICE will not be in a position to give the thumbs up to all of them. The NHS has a hard choice to make: does it stick with the current policy, born of ideological dogma? Does it hold back patients from accessing the best care for themselves and their families? Does it walk away from dying men and women whose only offence is to use their own money to extend their lives? Or do we, as a nation, do what we can to empower as many people as possible to access the best of the new treatments, without holding back, or penalising, those who cannot afford top-ups? The only civilised answer, for any nation facing this dilemma, is to save, or prolong, life wherever possible. Anything else is a far greater betrayal of the founding principles of the NHS and medicine. This inhumane and illogical policy will one day change. The question is: how long will it take the Government to recognise that, and how many patients will pay the price between now and then?

Ivan Lewis (Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Department of Health; Bury South, Labour)
I congratulate the hon. Member for Billericay (Mr. Baron) on securing this debate, and join him in publicly offering my condolences to Mr. O'Boyle, and his sons, on the loss of his wife. Unless one has been in such a situation, one can never fully understand what it must be like to experience such pain and misery. However, it is easy to talk about Government being inhumane, but I think that it is a cheap shot—nobody in this situation is inhumane. Politicians on both sides of the House have experienced the same situation, and we should try and avoid making party-political jibes. It is an incredibly serious and substantive issue that merits a serious and substantive political and public debate in order to reach the right conclusions.

John Baron (Billericay, Conservative)
I think that the Minister misheard. I did not accuse the Government of being inhumane, but the policy. I want to make it clear that I am certainly not trying to play party-politics.

Ivan Lewis (Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Department of Health; Bury South, Labour)
I accept the hon. Gentleman's reassurances. We have some very important and serious issues to address as part of this debate.

It is difficult to explain, but it would not be appropriate to talk about an individual case, so I must keep my remarks general at this stage. However, we must be clear that no one should ever be denied the offer of NHS care. That is a fundamental principle, on which our guidance is clear. Patients are entitled to switch from privately funded to NHS-funded status, and should then receive treatment on the same basis as any other NHS patient, and be offered treatment based on clinical need. Any previous status as a privately funded patient should, as far as is practical, neither disadvantage them nor allow them to access NHS care in a preferential way.

More treatments than ever are now available on the NHS, and cancer treatment and survival rates in this country have improved dramatically. However, any publicly funded health care system will always have to make difficult decisions about what treatments are available, and some treatments are not generally available on the NHS. We set up NICE, which is now regarded as a world leader, to assess the clinical and cost effectiveness of drugs and treatments based on the latest evidence. Primary care trusts have a statutory duty to fund the use of drugs that are recommended by NICE technology appraisals, ensuring that proven treatments are available to everybody.

The inevitable consequence of the NICE process, however, is that some PCTS will decide not to fund some treatments. For example, a treatment might not have received a safety licence from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, or NICE might find that it does not give patients enough clinical benefit to justify the expense. Those decisions are never taken lightly, and NICE will always find itself in difficulty when making decisions seen to deny people drugs that they genuinely believe will make a difference to the length or quality of their lives. There is never a controversy when NICE approves drugs, but it will inevitably follow some of the incredibly difficult decisions that it must make.

There has been tremendous political consensus about the virtues of having a NICE-type system to make some of those very difficult decisions: it is removed from party-politics and creates an entirely independent process governed by legislation established in this House. It is important to be clear that it would be inappropriate for Ministers to intervene in and undermine every difficult decision that NICE makes.

John Baron (Billericay, Conservative)
I accept what the Minister says to a certain extent, but in this context NICE is a bit of a red herring. The point here is about co-payments and access to drugs not available on NICE—not about how it makes its decision. Patients should not be penalised by an NHS that then withdraws care simply because they have access to those drugs.

Ivan Lewis (Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Department of Health; Bury South, Labour)
I accept the hon. Gentleman's point, but for many patients and families, the difficult decisions that NICE makes are sometimes a great source of angst. They can find those decisions hard to understand because they believe that having access to a certain drug would make a massive difference to their chances of living or dying. It is important to contextualise the debate in that sense.

Moving to the specific issues that the hon. Gentleman has raised, we are not in the business of denying people access to private treatment if that is what they want. A patient may receive both NHS and private treatment for the same condition, in parallel, as long as—this is the key phrase—the two treatments are in separate episodes of care. Our most recent guidance specifies that a patient cannot be both a private and an NHS patient for the treatment of one condition during a single visit to an NHS organisation, but an in-patient can choose to change their status before the treatment begins provided that they are then assessed to determine their priority for NHS care. I reiterate that that has been the position in this country for at least two decades and is not a consequence of any particular NHS reform by the Labour Government. The position is more difficult when a patient seeks to pay for part of an episode of care while expecting the NHS to pay for the rest. That has never been allowed in the 60 years of the NHS.

The legal basis for the ban on mixing private and public funding is in section 1 of the National Health Service Act 2006, which says that NHS services

"must be free of charge except in so far as the making and recovery of charges is expressly provided for by or under any enactment, whenever passed."

That prevents NHS bodies from accepting payments for NHS services unless that is provided for in legislation. It also prevents an NHS body from providing an incomplete package of care that patients then top up. For example, if a patient's treatment is the administration of a particular drug, their treatment includes both the purchase and administration of that drug. If an NHS organisation allows a patient to pay for a drug but administers it on the NHS, it is effectively charging for an NHS service.

Frank Field (Birkenhead, Labour)
May I make a plea to the Minister, who is held in high esteem in this House? I hope that when he goes back he will tell his Department that he does not want to be sent out with a brief like this again. We are arguing not about what the law is—we know what the law is—but for the law to be changed. Will he deal with that?

Ivan Lewis (Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Department of Health; Bury South, Labour)
I will: I was about to say that section 1 is consistent with the way in which the NHS has considered this issue. My right hon. Friend is not being disingenuous, but it is slightly disingenuous to accuse successive generations of clinicians, politicians and other people who believe passionately in the NHS of not having considered this issue in fundamental depth. Of course, there needs to be a debate on this issue, but it is not a new issue that has emerged in the past few days, weeks or months. It has been a constant debate throughout the 60 years of the NHS.

Ministers have to place on record the legal realities. The hon. Gentleman and others are arguing for a significant change in legislation, which would, arguably, be a significant change in the fundamental ethos that underpins the NHS. That might be a source of difference between us, but to change the legislation and policy in the way that he advocates would be a major shift in policy and legislation. We must also be aware, as I know that my right hon. Friend is, of unintended consequences, which I shall address in a moment.

John Baron (Whip, Whips; Billericay, Conservative)
The Minister talks about a major shift being required, but the only major shift that is required is having an open mind to changing the guidance. Top-ups, or co-payments, already exist in many areas of the NHS—I have cited some examples. Will the Minister address a specific point? The Department's ban on co-payments takes the form of guidance rather than instruction, which means that NHS trusts across the country are using their discretion when such cases arise. If the Minister truly believes his argument against co-payments, why does he not close that loophole? He says that this matter has been discussed for quite some time.

Ivan Lewis (Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Department of Health; Bury South, Labour)
We would have to be persuaded that that would be right, would be in the interests of patients and would take account of the almost daily advances in medical science for health care in this country and globally. To look at this issue in the context of the situation facing the O'Boyle family, it would be difficult not to feel tremendous empathy with the case being made, but we must consider, if we are to change policy or legislation, that there might be a series of unintended consequences that might not be apparent to the hon. Gentleman.

John Baron (Whip, Whips; Billericay, Conservative)
Will the Minister give way?

Ivan Lewis (Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Department of Health; Bury South, Labour)
I have given way enough, but I will give way one last time.

John Baron (Billericay, Conservative)
We are not being party political, so we can be generous in giving way. Perhaps I did not express myself clearly, but the Minister did not address my central point. The Department's policy on co-payments—the ban on them—is in the form of guidance, not instruction. That allows PCTs up and down the country to use their discretion when implementing co-payments or not doing so. If the Minister is absolutely convinced by the case against co-payments, why does not he simply ban them and close that loophole? The Government are allowing the loophole to exist.

Ivan Lewis (Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Department of Health; Bury South, Labour)
We will have to consider that point as a consequence of this debate. No one is suggesting that we can ignore the sensitive and difficult considerations that the issue of top-ups raises, such as whether NHS guidance is being applied consistently across the country. We have a constant debate in the NHS about the balance between having a universal, national service and having local flexibility, discretion and autonomy. To some extent, the aspiration of all Governments is to minimise postcode lotteries where possible. We know that decisions taken at the local level can, from time to time, be very different depending on the judgments of managers and clinicians, and this matter is no different to that. However, we are willing to consider the implications of the debate in the context of an ever-moving landscape of treatments and drugs that are becoming available.

I conclude by quoting Dr. Colin Trask, the director of clinical oncology at Southend hospital, whose comments are important. He has said: "At Southend hospital, our annual budget for drugs has gone from £1 million to £6million over the past decade. We have the money to spend on drugs. It's not about cost. It's about what is best, not just for a patient's life but for their quality of life...If it was in their interests, they would get the drug"

He went on: "Even if it is not available on the NHS, we would try to find a way to get it for them, by referring them somewhere they could get it, perhaps as part of a drug trial. But if it wouldn't help them, we would explain the drug is very toxic and would mean them spending their last bit of time in hospital feeling very ill ... Also, with cancer treatments, it can be extremely dangerous to mix certain drugs, so there are genuine safety concerns behind these co-payment regulations...these days, people hear of drugs through the media which are hyped as miracle cures when really that not the case."

Dr. Trask is an eminent clinician, and he has highlighted my point about the potential unintended consequences of simply changing law and policy in a way that some would describe as common sense and fair, but that others would define as opening a can of worms. Such a change might lead to a situation that would not be in the interests of patients and the NHS.

John Baron (Billericay, Conservative)
Does the Minister consider that a doctor's professional duty to his patients overrides the Department's guidance—returning to guidance again—where the two may be in conflict?

Greg Pope (Hyndburn, Labour)
Order. I am very sorry, but we have to move on to the next debate.

Small Businesses Seek Thames Gateway Support to Upgrade the A12

2008-06-10T08:05:00.000-07:00

Essex FSB (Federation of Small Businesses) is asking the Thames Gateway South Essex Partnership to pledge its support to the campaign to upgrade the A12.

Essex FSB Transport Spokesman, Ian Cass, said: "Although the Thames Gateway South Essex Partnership covers the south of the county many of the businesses based there and the residents who live there travel elsewhere in Essex and that inevitably means they will use the A12.

"If the projected growth in housing and economic prosperity in the Thames Gateway is to be achieved then the transport infrastructure needs to be right.

"At the moment the A12 is the main trunk road serving Essex, providing a direct link to the motorway network yet it is being used at well over its planned capacity and the slightest problem on the road causes major delays for hundreds of motorists including a significant number of Essex businesses.

"Using the A12 often leads to lost time and frustration caused by the inadequacy of the current road network which costs businesses a large amountof money each year as well as adding to the stress of drivers using the road.

"Essex FSB is asking the Thames Gateway South Essex Partnership to work with Essex County Council to persuade Government to allocate the funds necessary to upgrade the A12 as such improvements would have direct benefits on the attractiveness of firms and individuals to relocate to the area."

The FSB represents more than 211,000 business people across the United Kingdom and is the largest single organisation representing business interests in the country.

The Essex Region of the FSB represents small businesses in the areas covered by Essex County Council and the London Boroughs of Havering and Redbridge.

Football:- Essex Senior Cup Finalists Collect Prize Cheques

2008-06-10T08:02:00.000-07:00

Two local senior clubs had their bank accounts boosted to the tune of thousands of pounds as reward for one of the most successful ever FansFocus.Com Essex Senior Cup Finals when Southend United narrowly defeated Chelmsford City at Roots Hall on 1st April.

The Board of Directors at Chelmsford were delighted to receive £3,750 towards club coffers at their Melbourne home recently, consisting of £3,000 worth of gate receipts from the showpiece and £750 prize money for finishing as runners-up.

First Team Shrimpers Manager Steve Tilson, meanwhile, took hold of Southend’s equivalent £4,000 cheque as winners of the competition.

United claimed the silverware in front of 2,995 enthralled spectators, with Hungarian defender Zoltan Liptak’s solitary close-range strike on 27 minutes meaning the side picked-up their first Senior Cup in eleven years. Essex County Football Association Chief Executive, Phil Sammons, was thrilled to be able to contribute such large sums to the finalists, which were unprecedented figures in recent competition history.

John Baron Slams Inhumane NHS Policy

2008-06-10T06:04:00.000-07:00

John Baron MP has used today's debate in Parliament to challenge the Government’s ban on co-payments in the NHS. Co-payments, or “top-ups”, are when patients attempt to top-up their standard care with privately-funded drugs not available on the health service without losing NHS care.

The issue was highlighted locally when cancer patient Linda O’Boyle died after the NHS refused to fund or administer a life-extending treatment and she was forced to go private.

Commenting after the debate in the House of Commons, John said: “The ban on co-payments is wrong because it means withdrawing free NHS care from dying patients simply because they paid privately to obtain a drug not available on the NHS. Such a policy is inhumane.

“Patients seeking to top-up are not asking for favours or preferential treatments: no NHS care is taken away from other patients. Therefore the health service should be doing everything it can to help save or extend life.

“There are many examples of patients topping up NHS care already. If I go to an NHS dentist and then pay privately for teeth whitening, free NHS care is not withdrawn. So why is cancer any different? It is even more important to allow top-ups where they can save life.

“The family of Linda O’Boyle has been very courageous in speaking out against the ban on co-payments. We hope that in future patients will not have to go through the same thing.”

Comment: What sort of crazy State is it that refuses a patient the right to supplement State provided medicines at their own cost with medications the State system is unable to supply, even though the physician recommends the use of those medicines? John is right --- the issue needs to be resolved quickly. This is not an issue of preferential treatment, budget availability or cost of treatment.It is an issue of respect for life.

Everyone understands that the NHS operates within a range of guidelines and financial constraints. However, it beggars belief that any government would knowingly have passed legislation giving rise to the outrageous co-payment ban if aware of the implications for families such as that of Linda O'Boyle.

New Base for Old Soldiers

2008-06-09T02:53:00.000-07:00

The Royal British Legion (RBL) is to be offered the lease of the newly rebuilt Triangle Community Centre after last year’s disastrous fire.

Local residents were canvassed and the centre was widely advertised when the building once again became available to let. A search was mounted to find a suitable organisation to take on the lease and to find out which other community groups might be interested in regular hirings.

The legion was one of six organisations to express an interest in taking on the lease. Their secure financial position and management resources as well as strong supporting ties with their membership of a national organisation and commitment to the local community could not be matched by any rival group.

The RBL has long had a base in Laindon but lost their last premises under a compulsory purchase order. They were keen to find another property to maintain their close local ties. For the British Legion, the Triangle will become their headquarters building, housing administrative and branch meetings.

It will be a centre for social events and a meeting place for ex-service men and women as well as offering support and advisory services. It will become the nerve centre for its famous annual poppy appeal for the Basildon and Laindon branch which raises £40,000 a year as part of the national effort.

Detailed lease negotiations will now take place to finalise the deal.

Other organisations that expressed an interest in the lease will be put in touch with the RBL to see if hiring accommodation there might meet their needs.

Councillor Andrew Baggott, cabinet member for community services, said: “Our aim has been to ensure that this centre is properly managed and financed and that it gives local people a social hub with a sustainable future.

“The Royal British Legion will provide a secure and worthwhile anchor for this splendidly refurbished centre.

“Their plans should make it possible for the Triangle to become a lively focus for local residents of all ages and interests, a place to relax and enjoy and a place to get help and advice.”

Major John Hawkins, chairman of the RBL branch, said : “I am grateful and indebted to Basildon Council’s councillors and staff for helping us to achieve our aim of securing a home in the district.

“We are very much looking forward to working with the local community and catering for local needs”.

Basildon Council Promotes Advice for Home Buyers

2008-06-06T08:25:00.000-07:00

Following the success of a drop-in session last July, Basildon Council has arranged for its partner housing association, Moat Homes Limited, to run another session to answer questions on low cost home owning options for people living or working within the district.

Staff from Moat will be on hand in the foyer at the Basildon Centre, between 11am and 3pm, Wednesday 18 June. No appointment is necessary.

Moat can offer advice on a number of different schemes depending on your circumstances and will also be explaining two new products, Ownhome and MyChoiceHomeBuy.

Both are interest free equity loan schemes which allow people to buy the home of their choice on the open market at a price they can afford.

Information on these schemes and more will be available free at the Basildon Centre on 18 June.

Sporting Village Approved as Potential Paralympic Venue

2008-06-06T08:21:00.000-07:00

International wheelchair fencers, boccia, goalball and paralympic athletes could be gracing Basildon in the run up to the 2012 Paralympic Games.

This follows the announcement today by the by the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) that the Basildon Sporting Village is considered suitable to host National Paralympic Committee’s (NPC’s). The facility will now be included in the London 2012 Pre-Games Training Camp Guide for Paralympic Sport. It is one of only 10 in the entire Eastern region to be included.

In March it was confirmed that the Sporting Village and South Essex Gymnastics Centre would be included in the pre-Games training camp guide for a number of Olympic sports. Today’s news has revealed that the Sporting Village will be included in the NPC’s guide for the sports of Paralympic Athletics, Boccia, Goalball, Paralympic Judo and Wheelchair Fencing.

The Guide will be released this summer and will promote facilities for preparation of international athletes in the lead up to the London 2012 Games. It will be an online facility in partnership with VisitBritain, and the guide will allow National Olympic Committee’s (NOC’s) and National Paralympic Committee’s (NPC’s) to search for training camps on a sporting and geographical basis.

The guide will be launched to NOC’s and NPC’s at a series of invitational events during the Beijing Olymoic and Paralympic Games later this year.

Cllr Stephen Horgan, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Green Issues, says: “This is fantastic news and follows up the announcement in March that we will also be included for Olympic sports. After receiving official Government backing for the project last week, it is pleasing to see the good news keeps on coming. We are delighted to be included in the guide for Paralympic sports, and believe that the Basildon Sporting Village and Gymnastic Centre will offer teams the ideal facilities to prepare for the 2012 London Games in a great location only 30 minutes from the Olympic site in Stratford.”

The Sporting Village, which is supported by funding from Essex County Council and Communities and Local Government, will include modern facilities including a 50 metre Olympic sized pool, and is due to be completed by 2010.

Wat Tyler Regeneration Go-ahead

2008-06-06T08:10:00.000-07:00

Local Company wins £2.2M Wat Tyler contract
The regeneration of Wat Tyler Country Park has taken a major step forward today, following the agreement by Basildon Council’s cabinet to award the £2.2 million construction works contract to Forest Gate Construction, a company based on the Southfield industrial area. The award keeps both the money and work within the local economy.

Work will begin almost immediately to turn a former munitions factory into a heritage interpretation centre that forms the central focus of the major regeneration of Wat Tyler country park.

The centre, powered by renewable energy is due to be open by March 2009 and it is expected that visitor numbers to the centre will increase from an average of 200,000 a year to 350,000 a year within three years of its opening.

There are also plans to create an RSPB regional headquarters and return hundreds of acres of brownfield land back for public use. Funding for the project has come from EEDA, The Heritage Lottery Fund, and Veolia ES Cleanaway Pitsea Marshes Trust.

Councillor Stephen Horgan, cabinet member for regeneration and green issues says: “We are delighted that this fantastic project can now begin. Regeneration is so much more than redeveloping town centres and housing, and this project will rejuvenate and regenerate an already popular country park.

"Quality of life for our residents is key, and the new heritage centre and improvements to the open space will increase this. I am also pleased that a Basildon based company will carry out this work, ensuring that the benefits are kept within the local economy. We appreciate the efforts of all of our partners that have meant this project is now becoming a physical reality.”

Forest Gate Construction is a long-established main contractor with an outstanding track record in the public sector as well as an emerging commercial portfolio. Established in 1948, it combines a strong building heritage with extensive contracts experience to deliver the technical skills and management competence demanded by a project such as Wat Tyler.

Royal Court Redevelopment Plans at Final Stage

2008-06-06T07:41:00.001-07:00

Plans to demolish two unpopular and hard to let blocks of flats and transfer the land surrounding them to Family Mosaic Housing Association, have been approved in principle at last night’s (5 June) meeting of the cabinet of Basildon Council..

A grant of £1.25m funded by other developments in the district will also be made to Mosaic to help move the current tenants, demolish and rebuild the estate.

Royal Court's blocks were built in the 1960s forming part of the King Edward estate in Laindon and have been subject to detailed consideration since a recommendation to redevelop the site was made in 2006.

The blocks have suffered social and vandalism problems. The fabric of the buildings has deteriorated to the extent that though it would be possible to bring them up to a decent standard, the costs would be prohibitive.

Residents were consulted and endorsed the view that the 96 flats and council owned shop should be demolished and replaced with new flats, shop and a community centre.

The plan seeks to replace the blocks with 127 new homes. A bid has been made by the Council to the Housing Corporation for funds to carry through the preferred scheme. The outcome of the bid will determine what proportion of the new homes will be for rent or sale.

Meanwhile, current tenants and owners are being consulted on their individual re-housing needs and voluntary sale of their properties.

Councillor Tony Ball, the council’s deputy leader and responsible for housing strategy, said: “We have been working hard behind the scenes for some time to finalise the plans for this complex piece of regeneration.

“We hope that this scheme will not only rid the district of buildings which have a poor reputation and been hard to let for almost thirty years, but also replace them with a modern, energy efficient development, new facilities for residents, and more open space.

“All of this will regenerate the area and turn what has been a depressing environment for some into a pleasant and comfortable place where people will want to live and one which meets the aspirations of our residents.”

Rare Orchids in a Laindon Rec

2008-06-06T07:30:00.000-07:00

Hundreds of rare orchids have been discovered – on a recreation ground in Laindon.

The prized flowers, which require rather special conditions, are normally found hidden deep in the countryside. But visitors to the playing field, off New Avenue, can enjoy a spectacular display of green-winged orchids, said to be one of the best in Essex.

The delicate flowers, which take three years to grow a leaf and four to bloom, have transformed the boundaries of the ground into a carpet of purple. However, would-be admirers will have to be quick to catch a glimpse of them as they only survive for three weeks.

The orchids have been springing up every year following a conservation plan devised by the Basildon Natural History Society and Basildon Council. Put into action more than 30 years ago, the plan involves cutting and collecting the grass in late summer to create impoverished soil conditions orchids need to thrive.

Terry Simmons, from Basildon Council’s parks and cleansing department, said: “This is one of the biggest displays of wild orchids in Essex and for them to have taken hold and survived in a popular recreation ground is great.

“We have been doing our best to protect and nurture them after being told of their importance by the Basildon Natural History Society. The conservation plan we devised together has ensured they bloom in a blaze of colour every year, and we hope lots of people enjoy them.”

Gordon Reid, chairman of the Basildon Natural History Society, said: “It’s very unusual to find so many orchids growing in one place, especially at a recreation ground in the middle of town.

“When we drew the council’s attention to them, they agreed to avoid mowing the outfield until late in the year to give the flowers a chance to seed. It is a real treasure to have the orchids growing here and the council deserves praise for helping them to survive.”

Expanding Courier Company Wants Drivers

2008-06-06T06:41:00.000-07:00

Basildon newest courier company is looking for more drivers to join its
expanding team and is holding an Open Evening on Wednesday 11 June 2008 from 7.00pm at its new Head Office in Stella House, Luckyn Lane, Basildon.

Abby Couriers moved to their new Head Office in Basildon last month and already reports benefits for their business accruing from the move.

With almost 200 people working for it the firm has more than 175 drivers on the road providing Same Day Delivery Services across the United Kingdom and Europe for key clients who include DHL, FEDEX and TNT.

Managing Director mark Giles asks that anyone interested should either attend the Open Evening or ring him on 01268 330330 or email mark.giles@abbycouriers.com.

St George's Response to Audit Commission Report

2008-06-05T03:47:00.000-07:00

A joint statement from John Robb, Chair of the Board, and Steve Shynn, Interim Chief Executive of St Georges Community Housing in response to the 'fair' housing inspection report from the Audit Commission reads as follows:

"As many of you will know, the Audit Commission inspected St Georges Community Housing in January 2008. The results of that inspection have said that we provide a one-star ‘fair’ service, with promising prospects for improvement.

"The Audit Commission findings are generally positive, recognising the many strengths of the organisation and the improvements SGCH has already made. These include:

"1. Improved customer satisfaction, with particularly high satisfaction with Sheltered, Home Ownership, Voids and Aids and Adaptations services.

"2. Local offices are welcoming, staff are helpful and information provided for residents is of a good quality.

"3. Effective partnerships are in place, working to deal with anti-social behaviour, with flexible resources to improve tenancy enforcement and estate environments.

"The Audit Commission also said that the organisation has a robust system of performance management, which ensures areas for improvement are identified and it was acknowledged that significant progress has been made against key performance indicators and the aims of the Annual Improvement Plan.

"St Georges Community Housing is now well placed to achieving two stars, which will release the £143 million bid for government funding that will be used to improve the condition of Council homes. An early re-inspection has been requested.

"The Audit Commission have highlighted areas where we can enhance our services, and we will focus on these areas over the coming months. These improvements include:

"1. Increasing resident involvement, offering a menu of options so that they can have more say in how SGCH is run.

"2. Improve processes for identifying and supporting vulnerable residents.

"3. Review responsive and planned repairs services to meet customer needs and provide value for money.

"SGCH will also be improving the way it deals with and learns from customer complaints.

"The report concluded that SGCH has a positive and constructive relationship with the Council and has the leadership and staff commitment to deliver changes and improvements. We are committed to making sure our residents receive the best services possible, while achieving the government’s Decent Homes standard."

The following is extracted from the Audit Commission's own summary of the findings of the report:

1 St Georges Community Housing provides a fair service, which has promising prospects for improvement.

2 Satisfaction with services provided has improved markedly for tenants and leaseholders. Local housing offices and the Tenant Resource Centre provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for customers. The ALMO has created a distinct identity, which is reinforced through good quality publicity. SGCH works well with its partners, particularly in relation to antisocial behaviour. Sheltered housing is popular with residents. There is a corporate commitment to equalities and diversity, and the profiling of residents is making it possible to tailor services to individual needs through, for example, floating support services. Smaller aids and adaptations are provided quickly to those in need.

3 However, there are a number of areas which require further improvement. The level of complaints, although reduced, remains high, and there are significant areas of dissatisfaction in terms of leasehold service, responsive repairs and major works. More than 90 per cent of telephone calls (excluding the repairs call centre) are answered within target times; however, telephone answering at the repairs call centre does not meet targets. Frontline staff are not always fully aware of policies and procedures. Residents are consulted, but not fully involved in, decision making, and the current structure of resident participation makes it difficult to engage the wider body of residents and hard-to-reach groups. The ALMO has been slow to take action against tenants who have not allowed access for gas servicing, and tenants wait a long time for major aids and adaptations. The quality of cleaning is variable, and residents are unsure what standard of cleaning to expect. Value for money considerations are not fully embedded in the operation or plans of the organisation. The proportion of rent collected has remained static.

4 There are promising prospects for further improvement in services. The ALMO has a constructive relationship with the Council. There have been measurable improvements since the ALMO was set up. Progress has been made against many key performance indicators, and against the aims of the improvement plan. The ALMO is developing the ways it learns from residents, and these are feeding into its service plans. Good capacity at management and board level are helping to drive these improvements.

5 However, there are some barriers to improvement. In some areas, performance has not improved. Not all plans are fully developed, and many do not address value for money to any significant extent. The Council and ALMO have a commitment to realising the benefits of procurement, partnering and improved information technology, but have not yet fully developed their approach to these areas.

Scoring the service

6 We have assessed St Georges Community Housing as providing a ‘fair’, one-star service that has promising prospects for improvement. Our judgements are based on the evidence obtained during the inspection and are outlined below.

7 We found the service to be fair because it has a range of strengths including:
- overall satisfaction with services among tenants is high;
- residents have a wide range of ways to pay rent and otherwise contact the ALMO;
- there is a generally welcoming and comfortable environment at local offices, and staff are helpful;
- information provided to residents is generally of a good quality;
- the process of profiling the needs of residents is progressing well, and floating support services are tailored towards individual needs;
- there is a positive relationship with Housing Benefits and organisations providing welfare benefits services;
- the Tenants Resource Centre provides useful services to local residents;
- effective partnership working to deal with ASB is producing measurable outcomes for residents;
- the Community Warden service provides a flexible and effective resource to improve tenancy enforcement and estate environments;
- the repairs handyperson provides a helpful and popular service for older residents;
- estate inspections are thorough;
voids repairs are carried out to a standard agreed with residents, and satisfaction is high;
- sheltered housing services, including the emergency call-out line, is popular with residents;
- satisfaction with the Home Ownership Team is high;
- the review of Service Level Agreements has identified substantial savings;
- voids partnering has reduced costs;
- minor aids and adaptations are carried out quickly, and satisfaction is high once adaptations are fitted;
- residents have benefited from an active programme of installing new boilers and double glazing;
- the ALMO has robust data to inform its improvement programmes.

8 However, there are some areas which require improvement. These include:
- local offices have limited opening hours;
- the time taken to answer telephones at the repairs call centre does not meet targets;
- there are high levels of complaints;
- the proportion of rent collected has remained static;
- residents have to wait for some weeks for an appointment at the welfare benefits surgery;
- the process of collecting rent is not adequately targeted to prevent and address arrears;
- staff do not consistently have adequate knowledge of policies and procedures;
- the current resident participation structure does not encourage the involvement of hard-to-reach groups;
- the focus of participation is on consulting residents, rather than involving them in the decision-making process;
- legal action in cases of non-access for gas servicing is limited;
- the ALMO has not developed links between housing management and the gas/asbestos programmes to address issues of non-access and vulnerability;
- tenants wait for long periods for major aids and adaptations works;
- the level of post inspections is high;
- the level of planned works is declining, and is not focussed on resident priorities;
- satisfaction rates for major and planned works is not high;
- processes to deal with disputes with leaseholders are limited;
- examples of outcomes form partnering and joint procurement are limited;
- value for money is not fully embedded across the organisation;
- a complex system of estate cleaning has resulted in variable standards, and a lack of accountability;
- the level of responsive repairs relative to planned repairs is high;
- residents have not been actively involved in prioritising Decent Homes works;
- the outcomes of equal opportunity and diversity policies are not fully developed.

9 The service has promising prospects for improvement because:
- there has been significant improvement in the satisfaction of tenants and leaseholders with overall services;
- there has been progress against key performance targets, particularly those relating to repairs;
- the organisation has developed a distinct identity, for example through revised and improved publications;
- public offices have been re-branded and improved;
- there is measurable progress against the aims of the annual improvement plan, including the introduction of mystery shopping, development of Equality Impact Assessments and customer profiling;
- a robust system of performance management allows the organisation to identify areas which need improvement;
- learning from complaints has improved;
- there is good capacity at management level, and within the Management Board;
- there is a constructive relationship with the Council;
- the training plan is robust, and links well to organisational aims;
- partnership working has improved capacity to achieve progress.

10 However, there are a number of barriers to improvement. These include:
- some performance targets have not been achieved, and performance in some areas has worsened;
- there are significant issues of dissatisfaction in terms of leasehold services and repairs;
- not all plans are SMART (Specific, measurable, achievable, resourced, time-bound);
- plans are not integrated with VFM targets;
- there has been limited progress in procurement and partnering;
- there is no ICT strategy in place.

Free Football Training for Wickford Youngsters

2008-06-04T07:49:00.000-07:00

Wickford Town FC and Basildon’s community safety partnership have got together to set up free football training sessions at Wickford Memorial park.

It is all part of the ActiveBasildon community sports and activities network designed to get sports clubs into the local community and make youngsters more active.

The sessions will be held every Thursday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Wickford Memorial park (Tablehouse).

They are open to young people of all ages and talents. They just need to turn up and benefit from the training by qualified coaches from Wickford Town FC.

For further information contact Tracey Davies of the sports development team on 01268 465 444.

William Hague Visits Vange

2008-06-04T04:22:00.000-07:00

Stephen Metcalfe, Prospective Member of Parliament for South Basildon & East Thurrock and William Hague MP, senior member of the Conservative Shadow Cabinet, yesterday visited the South Anglia Housing and Essex Police Neighbourhood Office in Pitseaville Grove.

Both William and Stephen heard first hand how the partnership between the Housing Association and the Police was working and the benefits it has brought for the local community.

They toured the offices, chatted with staff about the new arrangements, met with local Police Officers and also heard about the recent successes with operation Leopard which saw Police target youths and known offenders responsible for anti-social behaviour. Those identified were warned that their actions would not be tolerated.

The results were spectacular! Crime across the whole area fell to almost nothing and whilst there has been a small increase since the operation finished, now that funding has been secured the operation can continue for at least another year.

William Hague was impressed with the results and said that he would certainly be talking to his shadow cabinet colleagues about the successes here in Basildon and would encourage David Davis, Shadow Home Secretary, to look closely at the Partnership, the operation and its results.

Stephen Metcalfe said: “I have been immensely impressed by the success of Operation Leopard. As is often the case, it is simplest ideas that are the best, such as the idea of coming out of the police station, targeting persistent offenders and photographing them. Their activities seem to have paid real dividends and have made a real difference to the lives of the 2,500 local residents who have been affected by the actions of a small minority.”

Stephen added that there are a number of other Police Forces looking at the results in Basildon and wanting to try similar operations in their own areas. He said he would like to see this kind of Policing adopted not only across the whole of Basildon and Thurrock, but also seen as best practice across the whole country.

Photos:
Top: William Hague, Shadow Foreign Secretary.
Centre: Stephen Metcalfe, Prospective Conservative Member of Parliament for South Basildon & East Thurrock talking to Police Sgt Gavin Brook.
Bottom: Stephen Metcalfe, William Hague and Vange Local Councillor Luke Mackenzie.

John Baron Congratulates Local Nominee for Business Award

2008-06-04T03:23:00.000-07:00

John Baron MP recently attended in Parliament the International Association of Book-keepers (IAB) annual business awards to congratulate his constituent Robert Head for being nominated for the Business Enterprise Awards 2008.

Robert has led his business (Robert Lewis Accountants Group, Basildon) to unprecedented growth in a short period of time, whilst maintaining excellent customer service.

John said: “My congratulations go to Robert on his nomination for this prestigious national award. It is a reflection of his hard work and initiative, and I am sure that he and his company will go from strength to strength.”

Creative Clay Workshop in Eastgate Centre

2008-06-03T08:59:00.000-07:00

Shoppers young and old are being invited to take part in the last of the Clay Workshops being run at the Eastgate Centre between 9am and 12 noon on Thursday.

The workshop is free and forms a part of the hugely successful Green Business Forum's Art Challenge event exhibition being held downstairs also in the Eastgate Centre.

The aim is to make enough clay pieces for a mural that will become a permanent piece of artwork somewhere in Basildon town centre.

The task is suitable for everyone and all ages. Great artistic skills are not necessary. Plaster moulds are used to form the shapes and these can be decorated with the range of textures. It's easy and lots of fun.

Young children should have an adult with them. The work is messy but it washes out.

Join in and you will be able to identify your work when it’s all fired, glazed and installed in the town.

For more information, the organiser is Lisa Hawker of the ceramics and sculpture company of the same name based in Rayliegh, 01268 741352.

Paws in the Park

2008-06-03T05:17:00.000-07:00

Dog lovers can enjoy a day of canine capers at Wick Country Park this weekend.
Families are invited to Paws in the Park being held at the beauty spot off Tresco Way in Wickford on Sunday 8 June. Owners can enter their four legged friends into a fun dog show with categories ranging from the scruffiest mutt to the cutest puppy.

The Billericay Dog Training School will also be putting their dogs and owners through their paces with an obedience and agility display.

Children can get creative with craft activities in the Pavilion and take part in a quiz which will get them exploring the park. There will also be a number of stalls and exhibits.

The event is being organised for the second year running by the Friends of the Wick Country Park, supported by Basildon Council.

It is aimed at promoting responsible dog ownership and encouraging people to get out and about, and enjoy their local park.

Admission is free and food and refreshments will be available. The event runs from 11am to 4pm, though keen dog walkers can join a dog ramble before the event from 10.30am to 11am. All dogs must be on a lead for this walk.

For more information about the event or about the Friends of Wick Country Park, telephone Nikki on 01268 734293

Andrew MacKinlay Queries Covert Recording in Prison

2008-06-03T04:58:00.000-07:00

Andrew MacKinlay (Thurrock, Labour) has asked the Secretary of State for Justice whether the discussions held between the hon. Member for Thurrock and his constituent Michael John Smith at Full Sutton Prison, York on 1 September 1999 and 30July 2001 were covertly (a) recorded, (b) transmitted and (c) monitored in some other way by or on behalf of any Government Department or agency; and if he will make a statement.

Jack Straw, Lord Chancellor, responded that it is not our policy to confirm or deny surveillance operations in prisons. Since the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (2000) came into force, all forms of covert surveillance are subject to a strict and rigorous statutory regime for authorisations, and are conducted in accordance with the guidance set out in the statutory Codes of Practice. Independent oversight is provided, and is overseen by the Office of Surveillance Commissioner. The Investigatory Powers Tribunal was established to investigate and rule on any complaints.

He further pointed out that as the Home Secretary made clear in her statement on 21 February 2008, Official Report, column 536, Sir Christopher Rose's inquiry into the surveillance of visits at Woodhill prison found "no trace in recent years in prison records or anywhere else of any person known to be a Member of Parliament having been monitored during a prison visit".

Should an MP's confidential discussions with constituents be privileged, whether in prison or elsewhere? Are you reassured by independent oversight overseen by the Office of Surveillance Commissioner, or does this all smack of a Kafka-esque administrative machine shoring up a paranoid state using 'security' as a catch-all excuse playing upon public anxieties over terrorism and crime in order to develop a state security apparatus unmatched in any state claiming to be a democracy.

What do you think?

Baron Concerned About Possibility of Titan Prison for Basildon

2008-06-03T04:16:00.000-07:00

John Baron MP has submitted a Freedom of Information Request to the Government after Ministers refused to rule out the possibility of locating one of three new “Titan” prisons in Basildon District.

Asked about plans in a recent Parliamentary question, Justice Minister David Hanson MP merely replied that “no decisions on sites have been taken.” A Titan prison would house 2,500 inmates – more than double the size of Britain’s current prisons. A statement to Parliament is now expected on Thursday.

Commenting, John said: “We do urgently need more prison places to tackle chronic overcrowding, but Titan prisons are not the right way to go. The evidence shows that smaller, local prisons provide better rehabilitation outcomes, and experience of Titan prisons in France is far from positive.

“The Government has refused to answer my questions on whether it is planning a Titan prison for Basildon, but I will be pressing Ministers to ensure that local residents are properly consulted before any decision is taken. What we saw with the ClearSprings saga was the Government tying to dodge consultation, and that must not be allowed to happen again.”

On 20th May John Baron asked the Secretary of State for Justice whether he is considering introducing a Titan prison (a) in Basildon district and (b) in south Essex; and when a decision will be taken.

David Hanson MP, Minister of State, Ministry of Justice, responded that no decisions on sites have been taken. The priority search areas for sites are London and the south-east, the north-west and the west midlands.

In the light of this non-committal response, John posted a Freedom of Information Request to the Government dated 20 May 2008. It read as follows:
Further to the Parliamentary written answer I received today, a copy of which is attached, please would you list each of the sites currently being considered for the introduction of Titan prisons?

I believe disclosure would be in the public interest because there is understandable public concern about the housing of offenders in local communities.

Bootleg Beatles & Amy Winehouse Tribute to Headline Basildon Festival

2008-06-03T03:08:00.000-07:00

A great line-up of tribute acts led by the Amy Winehouse Experience and The Bootleg Beatles will headline at this year’s Basildon Festival.

Organisers have revealed an exciting range of top singers and bands for the live performance at the free two-day event in Gloucester Park.

Basildon Council is hoping the mixture of old and new music will help attract even more visitors than last year’s record-breaking crowd of 40,000 people.

Among the tribute acts on the main stage is one devoted to the ultra-talented and unusual soul singer Amy Winehouse.

Backed by a full band, the Amy Winehouse Experience will perform hits from the award-winning album Back to Black, including Valerie and Rehab.

Also on the main stage will be a group widely acknowledged as the best Beatles tribute act in the world.

The Bootleg Beatles have been acclaimed for their “flawless” authenticity by Mojo magazine and have sold out concerts from the US to Russia.

It will see the return of Beatlemania as the group run through the band’s greatest hits such as She Loves You and I Want To Hold Your Hand.

Paul Brace, manager of cultural services for Basildon Council, said: “We have booked a fantastic line up of acts spanning the decades from rock and roll to reality TV. Amy Winehouse is one of the biggest stars around today and is well known for her quirky style and unique brand of music.

“She will be one of the most anticipated tribute acts this year. Not only is she a brilliant performer, she is also a local girl from Southend who is over the moon to be playing in Basildon.

“The Bootleg Beatles are also one of the most successful tribute bands in the world and have won critical acclaim as the Fab Four.

“It’s taken us four years to sign them, which proves just how popular they are, and their timeless music is guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser.

“We hope thousands of revellers come along to enjoy two days of great music and free entertainment.”

Other bands planned for the main stage include X-Factor finalists, Journey South. The heartthrob duo will be singing some of the songs that saw them win over Simon Cowell and thousands of TV viewers.

There will also be a touch of West End glamour as singers and dancers from The Buddy Holly Show celebrate the life of one of the most influential rock n rollers of the early 50s with hits such as That’ll be the day, Peggy Sue and Heartbeat.

Other bands booked to appear include Indie groups E.Verto, who have already appeared on MTV, and Ease Spring due to release their first single.

The Basildon Festival is part of an extended Summer Festival, taking in events happening from June to September.

The free Basildon Festival takes place in Gloucester Park on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 July from 11am to 7.30pm.

Make a Date to Support Royal Court Fun Day

2008-06-03T03:05:00.000-07:00

A fun day for all the family will be taking place on Saturday 7th June from 10am to 2pm at King Edward Hall and surrounding area.

The event is being organised by Basildon District Council and Family Mosaic and supported by various partners will have something for everyone.

Activities will include face painting, bouncy castle, balloon modelling, sports, arts and crafts and music by local DJ’s.

Agencies attending include the Fire Brigade, Fitness First, Gateway FM, West Basildon Children’s Centre, Age Concern and many more offering information and freebies to all.

Local residents will have the chance to win a brand new television just for attending and will also have the opportunity to see the plans for the new community hall and have their say on what activities or services they would like to see run from the building. Any resident that completes a survey will be entered into a free prize draw with the chance of winning a digital camera.

The Gateway FM Roadshow crew will be there with music, fun and to provide the announcements. It's all part of Gateway's commitment to the community.

International Day at Frypa Hall --- a Great Success

2008-06-03T02:24:00.000-07:00

Saturday's international fun day organised by the Friends of Craylands group turned out to be a great success despite the best efforts of our English weather. It didn't exactly rain --- but just managed to present a threatening face.

Nevertheless, a good turn out of visitors of all ages at Frypa Hall witnessed some electrifying African dance and drumming along with a range of exhibits from around the world, plus a chance to taste the foods of other nations and to participate in a range of different activities.

It was one of those good humoured social events that mark the passage of our summer season. Of course, Gateway FM was there with the roadshow team providing background music and announcements. Our very own celebrity chef, Matthew Warner was coooking up tasty treats for visitors --- you'll hear more from him when we are back on 87.7FM from June 23rd!

The photos capture the line dancing --- complete with dancing police --- good on them!

Police Horses and Dog Star in School Visit

2008-05-30T04:30:00.000-07:00

Two police horses and a police dog thrilled more than 220 children last Friday when they were the surprise stars of a ‘show and tell’ morning at West Thurrock Primary School.

PCSO Donna Ribbons, who organised the event had asked children to bring in items or drawings connected to a job they wanted to do when they left school. She had planned to take a few small items of police equipment to show the children while telling them about the work of police officers.

But even she was surprised when she heard that horses Bella and Patrick and their riders Dale Copley and Andy Padfield would be on patrol in the area and could drop in for a short visit. Dog handler Sgt Russ Abbott and his dog Shadow were also on duty in the district and arrived at the same time.

The whole school turned out on their playing field and pupils took turns to stroke Bella, Patrick and Shadow while asking the officers questions.

PCSO Ribbons and colleague PCSO Laura Wiseman, who both cover the West Thurrock district, were joined for the school visit by Purfleet PCSO Kelly-Marie Howell and Sgt Anna Brennan from South Ockendon police station.

The school’s deputy head teacher, Laura Fishleigh, said: “The visit has been absolutely fantastic and the children loved seeing the horses, the police dog and meeting the officers.

“The children brought in a great range of things for the event. One boy who wants to be a vet brought a cat basket and another, a hard hat as he wants to be a builder. Some of the children brought toy police hats. But it was such a huge surprise when we heard who would be visiting us from Essex Police.

“When I told the children during assembly on the Friday morning they were delighted. Some of them even thought that I was joking.

“Some of the children see police horses and dogs only on television so it was wonderful to see them at close hand and be able to talk to the riders, the dog handler and the four local officers.

“The whole event has made a great impression on the children. By getting to know about the police we can teach the children who to go to, knowing they will be safe and get any help they need.”

PCSO Ribbons is a regular visitor to the school.

“It has really helped the children to get to know us and to realise that police officers are just like any other people,” said PCSO Ribbons. “Many of the children were so impressed that they said they would like to join the force. The majority of the pupils will have fond memories of the visit. It will stick in their minds for a long time and they are now more likely to come up and say hello when they see us in the street.

"They will have good memories of the police and rather than give us abuse when they are older they will remember the time when we went to the school with horses and a police dog.”

There are plans to hold similar events in other schools in the district in the future.

John Baron MP Opens George Hurd Centre

2008-05-29T08:55:00.000-07:00

John Baron MP today officially opened the new George Hurd Centre, in Audley Way, Basildon. Whilst there, John secured a promise from Lovells to provide free of charge a scooter shelter in the car park to protect against the rain when residents are visiting the centre.

John said: “This fabulous day Centre will allow residents to access a wide range of services all in one place for the first time. With the elderly population growing, this facility will play an important role in helping older people to continue to live independently and to fully enjoy their retirement. It is a great community asset.”

“I am also delighted that today I have been able to secure from Lovells a scooter shelter on behalf of local residents. This is badly needed and our thanks go to Lovells.”

“Congratulations to everyone for working together to produce such a fantastic new day Centre at no expense to council tax payers. Our thanks also go to the teams involved in now making this work for the local community.”

Dozens of elderly residents joined MP John Baron for the official launch of
the George Hurd centre in Audley Way.

The two-storey building is a replacement for the centre’s former home in
Fauners which is due to be demolished and replaced by new housing.

It follows a deal negotiated by Basildon Council giving Family Mosaic and
Lovell the site of the ageing centre in exchange for building the new one.

More than 700 elderly people will benefit from the larger building which
includes new facilities and space for local community and voluntary groups.

Local residents will also benefit from 49 new affordable homes and 12 for
private sale being built by Lovell on the old site.

Councillor Phil Turner, cabinet member in charge of Resources, said: “The former centre was built more than 40 years ago and was struggling to meet the modern needs of elderly residents.

“Instead of using taxpayers’ money to prop up an ailing building we exchanged the land for a new purpose built centre. This has not only saved public money but has resulted in a £2m facility that is both larger and better equipped than the one before.

“The George Hurd centre is a lifeline for many elderly people and I hope this brand new development provides better quality care and support for them.”

Among the new facilities is a hairdressers, medical room, together with a
full-sized snooker room and table. There is also a professional kitchen, lounge, dining room, activities room, main hall and classroom.

Councillor Terri Sargent, who worked on the project as the former cabinet member in charge of Community Services, said: "The George Hurd is one of our most popular day care centres and is relied on by hundreds of elderly people each week.

"The new centre not only offers modern facilities for the elderly but also provides a permanent base for local community and voluntary groups. These have been joined under one roof for the first time and will give older residents convenient access to the services they provide.

"We hope the new centre becomes an even better place for elderly people to meet friends, stay active and get the help and advice they need."

The CVS and BDVC have set up offices on the upper floor, with the Wickford
Talking Newspaper set to join them in June.

Among the activities already on offer at the George Hurd are yoga, keep fit, ceramics, bingo and art. Elderly residents can also take advantage of cheap meals, an evening meal takeaway service and transport to and from the centre.

Angela Smith MP Tackles Vange Flooding Issue

2008-05-29T03:48:00.000-07:00

Angela Smith, MP for Basildon and East Thurrock, has been contacted by residents in Merricks Lane in Vange, who have been flooded in recent days.

Back in 2004, Angela raised the threat of flooding with Basildon Council and Anglian Water and was told that appropriate action was being taken.

The recent rainstorms have again caused serious flooding to Merricks Lane.

Angela said, “I am now very concerned to learn that there is again a problem and some of the photographs that have been given to me by residents show how very serious this is. I have therefore made representations to Basildon Council and Anglian Water, requesting urgent action be taken to deal with the immediate problem. I have also asked what will be done to try to ensure a long term solution to the issue of flooding.”

FSB Praises Thurrock for In-County Spend

2008-05-29T03:36:00.000-07:00

Thurrock Borough Council has been praised by the FSB (Federation of Small
Businesses) for keeping its trade local with almost two thirds of its
annual budget being spent within the county.

Chairman of the South West Essex Branch of the FSB, David Miles, said:
"Councils have a big budget and spending that money within their own local
economy is an excellent way of helping boost that local economy and helping
keep local businesses viable.

"We have now received information from Thurrock Borough Council and we are very impressed by the proportion spent locally --- around £6.824 million is spent with businesses based within the Borough Council boundary and when you extend the range to include businesses based in any Essex postcode area that figure rises to 59.44 per cent of total spending - an estimated £29.3 million.

"The FSB congratulates Thurrock Borough Council for such a positive approach to encouraging local procurement and would encourage more local firms to find out whether the goods and services they offer are ones the council needs so we can see this figure rise even higher for next year."

Basildon's Annual Civic Service

2008-05-29T03:32:00.000-07:00

Councillors from Basildon as well as representatives of community groups, the council's partners, local and voluntary organisations, press and residents will attend the annual service to celebrate the start of the new civic year.

The service will be held in St Martin's Church, St Martin's Square, Basildon on Wednesday 4 June 2008 at 6.00pm.

The retiring Chairman of the Council, Councillor Geoffrey Buckenham, and the leaders of the three parties represented on the council will address the congregation recollecting the past year and their hopes for the next.

The service should last about 40 minutes and all will be welcome to stay on for light refreshments.

'Inspace' Ends Council Housing Repair Contract

2008-05-29T03:28:00.000-07:00

Under the terms of their contract with Basildon Council, Inspace has given notice that they wish to withdraw from providing services for the repair of the council’s housing stock. They have given 13 weeks notice as allowed within the contract which was signed in June 2005. This is purely a business consideration by Inspace.

St George's Community Housing, which manages the housing stock on behalf of the council, is discussing alternative arrangements with the council.

Councillor Andrew Baggott, cabinet member for community services, said: “We are committed to ensuring continuation of the repair service with as little disruption as possible. New arrangements will be firmly in place before the end of the notice period”.

John Baron Contributes to Traveller Debate

2008-05-29T03:17:00.000-07:00

John Baron MP spoke in a recent debate in the House of Commons on the latest report to Government on Gypsy and Traveller site provision and enforcement against illegal sites. The Report, entitled “The Road Ahead”, was commissioned from an independent task group by the Department for Communities and Local Government and was over a year in the making. In the debate, John: -

- Agreed that more sites are needed, but was critical of the present methodology used to allocate site numbers to Councils
- Argued Report was wrong to claim existing enforcement powers against illegal sites are sufficient, and provided examples
- Provided evidence showing the Report was biased in favour of travellers
- Aired experiences of local residents living next to Dale Farm (Crays Hill)
- Challenged MPs in the debate who argued travellers ought to be allowed to break planning regulations if they have nowhere else to go.
- Challenged Government over its refusal to back his cross-party Private Member’s Bill in 2003

Commenting afterwards, John said: “We urgently need more sites allocated, but the current methodology is corrupt because it confuses need with demand. To base need simply on the number of unauthorised caravans, when such caravans always gravitate towards authorised sites, discriminates against Councils such as Basildon who’ve done most to help travellers. This responsibility needs sharing more fairly.

“Contrary to the Reports findings, existing enforcement powers are clearly inadequate as they cannot stop travellers buying Green Belt land and then speedily and illegally developing it. Tougher policies are required. The only part of the Report I could agree with was when it criticised John Prescott for granting Dale Farm travellers a two-year extension back in 2003.

“The Report itself has a raw bias. Local residents were not members of the Group and were not visited by the Group, whilst Ministers were advised to meet only with travellers. Until the experiences of those living close to illegal sites such as Hovefields and Crays Hill are understood, this problem will not be resolved fairly and local residents will continue to be discriminated against.”

Some MPs suggest travellers should be allowed to break the law and stay on illegal sites such as Dale Farm. This would give a green light for travellers to concrete our Green Belt with impunity. We cannot have one law for travellers and another for local residents.”

The following is a summary of the speech by John Baron MP during a Parliamentary debate on 22nd. May

(1) More authorised Traveller sites are needed

There is currently an estimated shortfall of 4,000 sites nationally.
Well-managed authorised sites recognise the Traveller way of life and help to promote understanding between Travellers and the settled community
The problem of illegal sites will only be solved when more authorised sites have been provided. This is because (a) eviction is legally very difficult if Travellers have nowhere else to go and (b) even if eviction does take place, this often means moving a problem from one place to another.

(2) Existing policy confuses demand with need

In the meantime, ODPM circular 01/2006 has made clear that a significant number of unauthorised encampments or developments in an area shows a clear and immediate need which ought to be addressed.
However, to base need simply on the number of unauthorised caravans, when such caravans often gravitate towards authorised sites, discriminates against Councils such as Basildon who’ve done most to help travellers.

(3) A regional strategy

Traveller site provision does need to be addressed at a regional level and the current Regional Spatial Strategies are a good enough model for doing this. The problem is that a number of relevant factors are not taken fairly into account when site numbers are allocated down to local authorities. Such factors include: -

How many sites the local authority has already provided or recognised compared to its neighbours
The extent of Green Belt land in a local authority area, which restricts the availability of land for development, and the availability of brown-field land for development
Infrastructure considerations

(4) Existing enforcement powers are not sufficient

Appeals can put Enforcement Notices on hold for years, whilst illegal developments continues
Temporary Stop Notices only apply when the development is not a primary residence
Fines rarely work, because of identification problems or delaying tactics
Forced evictions are rare because of the HRA

(5) Conclusion

The solution is neither to argue that more authorised sites are the only change needed to make enforcement work (as Labour has done) nor to argue that enforcement is the only answer (as Conservatives have done).

As promoted in my Private Member’s Bill in 2003, a twin-track approach is needed to (a) require all local authorities fairly to share the duty for site provision on a regional basis and (b) give councils much stronger powers to tackle illegal developments quickly – with extra powers being conditional on addressing genuine need.

The report, "The Way Ahead" can be downloaded from http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/housing/Taskgroupreport

Courier Company Opens Head Office in Basildon

2008-05-28T03:01:00.000-07:00

The new Head Office of Abby Couriers, a specialist courier company has been officially opened by West Ham United Football Club star Steve Potts at Stella House in Luckyn Lane, Basildon,in the presence of Basildon District Council
Chairman, Councillor Geoffrey Buckenham.

Managing Director at Abby Couriers, Mr Mark Giles, said: "Abby Couriers is delighted to be opening its new Head Office here in Basildon and our thanks go to Steve Potts and the Chairman of Basildon District Council for joining us to make this day even more special.

"Abby Couriers traces its routes back to 1994 when a taxi firm - Abby Cars (West Horndon) Limited - started operating from the old tea room at West Horndon Station and filling a gap in the market as no taxi firm operated from the station at that time.

"As someone who has lived in Basildon for 14 years I have seen in recent years the investment which is taking place to provide suitable business premises for businesses such as ours and we are pleased to be officially opening the new offices during May.

"Abby Couriers now has a team of around 200 people, including 175 drivers, providing a Same Day Delivery Service across the United Kingdom and Europe and that is set to expand following the opening of our new Head Office which officially takes place on Wednesday 14 May 2008.

"We are looking forward to being based in Basildon and continuing our development and growth as we provide top quality courier services for businesses across the county and beyond."

Commenting during the opening ceremony Councillor Buckenham said that Abby Couriers is exactly the type of firm the Council wishes to attract to Basildon.

Wishing the company every success, he praised it as a modern, forward thinking company which will provide a good service for local firms and bring with it prosperity and job opportunities for local people.

Abby Couriers is a family run firm with a Head Office in Luckyn Lane, Basildon and offices at Welwyn Garden City, Vauxhall and Northamptonshire.

Homeswap Scheme Gives More Choice to Tenants

2008-05-27T13:34:00.001-07:00

Council tenants searching for a new home can now swap with other tenants across the country.

Basildon Council has launched a new mutual exchange scheme giving St Georges Community Housing tenants greater choice over where they live.

Homeswapper allows residents to switch properties with other social tenants living both in and outside of the district.

Tenants signed up to the web-based scheme are matched with people looking to swap similar sized homes. They are then alerted to any potential matches by mobile, email or post.

Councillor Tony Ball, deputy leader of Basildon Council, said: “Homeswapper offers tenants greater choice and flexibility over where they live.

“In the past, tenants searching for a new home had to wait for an available property on a lengthy housing transfer list.

“This new exchange scheme gives tenants wider choice, and helps people who want, or need to move, to find a suitable home much quicker.”

The service is being provided at no cost to tenants. People registered on the scheme can run searches for new homes based on type, location, number of bedrooms and cost of rent.

The system is accessed by computers based in Basildon Council’s St Martin Square offices and local area housing offices.

It replaces the council’s old mutual exchange system which offered a limited area of choice and didn’t automatically match people to their specific requirements.

This is free for St Georges Community Housing tenants and no registration fee is applicable.

Local Man Fined for Flytipping and Ignoring Fixed Penalty Notice

2008-05-27T08:17:00.000-07:00

Gavin Morgan, 24, from Witchards, having pleaded guilty to flytipping by dumping five black sacks beside a garage block in Bardfields, Basildon, and neglecting to pay a fixed penalty notice of £75, received a fine of £190.

Council environmental enforcement officers rifled through the bags where they unearthed evidence linking them to Morgan. He confessed to dumping the sacks under interview and was given a fixed penalty notice of £75, which he failed to pay.

Consequently, his case went to Basildon Magistrates Court where he pleaded guilty, was fined £25 and ordered to pay £150 costs plus a £15 victim surcharge.

Angela Campaigns Against Canadian Seal Hunt

2008-05-27T04:55:00.000-07:00

Last week Angela Smith MP joined anti-fur campaigners at Parliament to watch horrific footage of the 2008 seal hunt in Canada and plan the next steps of the campaign to end it.

Angela, who has seen the seals in their natural environment in the past, was particularly disturbed at the footage of baby harp seals being clubbed to death in a Canadian nature reserve.

Campaign group ‘Respect for Animals’ briefed MPs with eye witness reports and were backed by actress Alison Steadman, who showed her strong commitment to end the seal hunt.

(Angela pictured above with Alison Steadman).

Angela said, “the Canadian seal hunt is the largest slaughter of marine animals on the planet, and the footage revealed the killing is clearly not quick or humane. I have now taken the matter up with the UK Trade Minister, who is lobbying our European Union counterparts to attempt to bring in a Europe-wide ban on seal products.

"The Canadian Government should be encouraging eco-tourism for people to visit these magnificent animals in their natural habitat rather than supporting this cull.”

Thanking Angela for her support, Respect’s Mark Glover commented that it is still legal to import the products of this cruel slaughter into the UK. Calling for an end to the slaughter, he acknowledged that it is achievable with the support of MPs like Angela Smith.

The Ongoing Saga of Billericay's GP Surgeries

2008-05-27T03:55:00.000-07:00

Billericay GPs, Councillors and John Baron MP met on Friday afternoon to discuss the next stage in their campaign to ensure local GP surgeries are not forcibly closed by the PCT.

They also discussed a letter dated 23rd May from the Local Medical Committees (LMC) Ltd which suggests that SW Essex PCT will be placing adverts in the Autumn seeking expressions of interest from experienced healthcare providers, to provide new local health services from GP-led Health Centres (Darzi centres or Poly-clinics).

John said: “My concern is that the PCT’s Strategic Review is considering closing local GP surgeries across Billericay. Our suspicions were heightened when a joint effort by myself and GPs and Councillors across Billericay to raise this matter with the PCT earlier in the year met a wall of silence. We therefore decided to go public last week, since when I’m pleased the PCT has been in touch to apologise and to agree a meeting. We are now arranging details, and I’ve asked that GPs and Councillors also be invited.

“Meanwhile, I find it worrying that new evidence suggests the PCT will soon be seeking bids to provide Darzi Centres or poly-clinics. These new super surgeries are part of a government plan to replace the family doctor service I highlighted last week. We need to discuss this.

“I now look forward to our meeting with the PCT. We are concerned that the closure of local GP surgeries would hurt communities particularly senior citizens, young mums and the disabled. The PCT’s previous silence has been unfortunate, so let us now hope we can have a full, open and genuine consultation about any proposals affecting our GP services. Like Post Offices, once closed they could be lost forever.”

Minicam Cops to Video Crooks

2008-05-26T05:35:00.000-07:00

Police in Basildon town centre have become among the first officers in Essex to use headcams during routine patrols.The mini digital cameras, called Robocams, can capture evidence at the arrest of shoplifters, pickpockets, drunks and people involved in anti-social behaviour.

The camera, fitted with a high quality lens, is mounted on an officer’s helmet and can be activated by a simple push button to save crystal-clear images on to a mini video recorder attached to the officer’s belt.

Four camera kits, each costing £1,100 have been bought with funding from the operators of the Eastgate Centre and also Basildon Market. They will be used by officers from the town policing unit and by security staff at the Eastgate Centre.

Sgt Josie Hayes, of the town policing unit said: "The cameras will help us to ensure that offenders are brought to justice, because when the camera is filming there can be no argument as to what is said or done in connection with an offence. It will also, hopefully, give more security to officers on patrol and reduce the number of assaults on police because criminals will know that their actions are caught on film and they cannot dispute it."

Members of the unit came up with the idea of using the cams on a permanent basis and were delighted that Eastgate Centre and Basildon Market came forward to buy four cameras to help make the shopping area more secure and increase public confidence.

Chief Inspector Mark Wheeler, the Basildon district commander, said: "This is an excellent example of partnership working between the town policing unit, the Eastgate Centre and Basildon Market.

"The evidence captured by these cameras is of excellent quality which means we are unlikely to get protracted court cases, as criminals will be unable to dispute the evidence.

"Witnesses also won't have to face the heartache of giving evidence. It will also, hopefully, reassure people that cases caught on camera will get to court and be dealt with quickly."

The cameras were officially handed over to police at a special ceremony in the Eastgate Centre on Thursday, May 22.

Upper photo: Chief Inspector Mark Wheeler receives a Robocam kit from Hans Wustefeld, general manager of the Eastgate Centre. With them are Angela Smith, the Basildon and East Thurrock MP, members of the town policing unit and headcam users Pc Colin McCabe, Pc Simon Gray and Eastgate security officer Lee Riches.

Lower photo: Pcs Simon Gray (left) and Colin McCabe with their headcams

Basildon District Council Leader Names Cabinet

2008-05-24T07:02:00.000-07:00

Councillor Malcolm Buckley, elected as Leader of the Council at the annual meeting on May 22nd, has named his cabinet.
Deputy Leader will be Tony Ball who also retains responsibility for housing strategy.
The following are also appointed to the cabinet :
Stephen Horgan Cabinet member for Regeneration and Green issues
Terri Sargent: Environment
Kevin Blake: Leisure and the Arts
Phil Turner: Resources
Richard Moore: Customer Services
Andrew Baggott: Community
Lynda Gordon: Cabinet member (Labour)
Allan Davies: Cabinet member (Labour)
The new council chairman, not a member of the cabinet, is Councillor Frank Tomlin and the Vice-Chairman, Councillor Sandra Hillier.
Overview and Scrutiny Committee chairmen will be :
Sylvia Buckley: Overview Commission
Michael Mowe; Housing and Community
Stuart Sullivan: Environment and Regeneration
Dan Morris: Leisure, Arts and Customer Services
Chairmen of other committees :
Stephen Hillier: Development Control and Traffic Management
Anthony Hedley: Audit and Risk
David Abrahall: Licensing
Malcolm Buckley: Appointments

Basildon Council Leader's Adddress to AGM

2008-05-24T06:08:00.000-07:00

Councillor Malcolm Buckley, newly reelected as leader of Basildon Council, addressed the annual general meeting of the council on 22 May. The following is the text of his speech :

"Our priorities are the environment, community and regeneration underpinned by a continued drive on value for money.
Improving services
· Members will have seen the council’s new customer service facilities on the ground floor. The investment initiated by Councillor Blake is paying dividends in improving services even before work is finished. Our customer service is now recognised as amongst the best nationally. Recently we were commended by the MJ- national recognition of the strides forward under a Conservative administration. And under Councillor Moore further progress will be made to improve the customer experience.
· Services will be transferred from Church Walk House to the Basildon Centre. This will help to further enhance our customer services in the future as well as saving over £500,000 per year in rent alone.
· High level service reviews were undertaken last year delivering efficiencies. Those reviews will be repeated this year, in much greater detail, with even greater emphasis on seeking better value for money and reaching into the depths of the services.
· Benefits service times for processing new claims have been slashed from 33.5 days in 2006-07 to 19 days last year. The processing of changes of circumstance was reduced from 15 to 9 days by the last quarter of 2007-08. This transformation will be sustained and improved over the coming year. I thank all those involved in this step change in service delivery to the most vulnerable, especially Scott Logan and colleagues and Councillor Phil Turner.
· Recycling has increased dramatically across the district we are currently recycling over a third of all domestic waste, thanks to the efforts of Councillor Hillier, but we still need to do more, and Councillor Sargent will be working to this end.
· This Conservative administration gives an absolute commitment to retain weekly refuse collections with no local bin taxes, despite pressures from Mr Brown and his cronies.
· We are investing resources in streetscene, particularly graffiti removal and the results of this initiative will benefit the whole district. The continued emphasis on maintaining clean and sustainable environment has been supported by more cash in the budget.
· The new George Hurd Centre is about to open – providing better services for the elderly in accommodation designed for the 21st century. A £2m facility provided and provision for further housing also created – at no cost to the community. And Labour didn’t want it to happen. I am pleased that Councillor Sargent and Mowe were able to attend the ribbon cutting a few days ago.
· Pantomime has returned to the Towngate Theatre after 10 years, bookings are being taken for this years event even now. The Theatre is now firmly re-established on the cultural map of the area.
· The Basfest is continuing to develop and become even bigger and better and we hope to make an announcement very soon about next years event with a high profile additional event.
· The Annual Audit and Inspection Letter praised the council for the improvements it has made in priority areas. The Auditors letter identified equalities, recycling, benefits, planning and regeneration as areas in which particular progress had been made.
· Protection of the greenbelt remains a priority with all of the challenges that brings. Recently we have seen a resident fined a five figure sum for breaking planning rules.
· I can also confirm the council has served papers on the court confirming that we are appealing against the decision of L J Collins in the judicial review of the development by Travellers in the green belt. There will be a twin track approach to achieving compliance at Hovefields and Crays Hill with the court judgement returning to planning committee.
Organisational Culture Change
· Business transformation agenda in hand to meet efficiencies, develop an organisation that delivers for the community and identify resources for investment in priority area.
· Underpinned by new technologies to supporting new ways of working at the Basildon Centre.
· Voice recognition analysis (VRA) technology is to be introduced in benefits this year as part of the continual improvement of this vital service. Let the fraudster beware.
· The council chief executive recently commissioned a report from security specialists to advise on improving information security. Many people took part in this project and we look forward to an even better level of protection of privileged information.
Regeneration – plans moving forward quickly
Promotion of a prosperous economy despite Labour government:
· The quality of the schemes developed for the regeneration of Basildon town centre has ensured market confidence despite the economic conditions. A development partner will be announced later this year.
· Partners will also be confirmed for the development of the Sporting Village and Wickford will be announced by the end of the year, ensuring delivery of these key projects.
· Within the next year will know which teams want to use the facilities for Olympic and Paralympic training members will be aware of a preliminary approach from Russia, however the training camps are officially launched at Beijing in the summer and further interest is anticipated. A top team in Basildon will not only help encourage local participation in sport, but will inject a substantial sum into the local economy. I thank Councillor Hedley for his work on this project and his ongoing support through Essex CC.
· A planning application is expected imminently for an exciting new project in Pitsea which will, if approved, be the cornerstone of Pitsea’s regeneration. Councillor Horgan and officers have undertaken a great deal of work behind the scenes to ensure a prosperous future for Pitsea Town Centre.
Community Safety Partnership
· This is a safe area. Crime in targeted areas reduced by 16.7% over last 3 years. We are confident that government audited figures over the last 4 years will show even more dramatic improvement. Our Community Safety Partnership is renowned as one of the best in the country, many thanks to Councillor Ball, Ken Venables and our partners in the police.
· Targeted activity will continue on hot-spot areas through creating Community Safety Action Zones.
· High visibility policing of young people in hot spot areas recently adopted as a government best practice nationally.
Education
· Plans for a new college in the town centre are advancing well and the college will be making an announcement on the location shortly.
· Funding from National Learning and Schools Council announced last week for the 3rd phase of Prospects College. Will provide training for young people, mainly 16-19, who are often outside the school system. This will provide high-end skills in the engineering sector.
· The council participated in a simulated disaster exercise for school sixth formers from Chalvedon and Barstable schools. This is the second year the Authority has helped to organise the event which this time was hosted in a cold war nuclear bunker deep underground at Kelvedon Hatch. The session also contributes to the BTEC Course ‘Public Services’. The chief executive and I attended and I at least was delighted to find that the prime minister was still Mr Major – oh for such happy times!
· The Council is seeking further opportunities to support local education.
· Youth Champion Councillor Mackenzie will be working with officers and members to improve awareness of municipal matters and participation in the democratic process.
Housing
· Will continue to support the ALMO in the drive for decent homes across the district. Major redevelopment about to start in Craylands and Fryerns.
· Town centre regeneration plans will deliver housing which will bring life back to the towns at night.
Value for Money
· Challenge to find resources to meet the increasing demands of the community, particularly under the reducing support from government.
· Efficiency and value for money at the heart of all we do – this provides resources to meet priorities.
· Over the last 3 years the Council has exceeded its savings target through Gershon. Last year close to £1m in efficiencies was identified over and above the target that helped keep the Council Tax at a reasonable level and enhance quality service delivery.
· On target to achieve the efficiency savings handed down by government for the next 3 years.
· Keeping down the increase in council tax remains a priority despite challenging settlements and new responsibilities.
After increasing the number of Conservative councillors every year since 1998 we have an ongoing mandate. The direction of this council is clear:
We will deliver improving services
We will keep the tax burden on residents as low as possible
We will deliver our regeneration projects
BUT
We will not impose a bin tax
We will not reduce the weekly domestic refuse service
We will not give up the fight to protect green belt
That’s what you get from a Conservative council ".

Council Staff Absence Through Sickness Hits Record Low

2008-05-24T05:47:00.000-07:00

Sickness levels among Basildon Council workers have fallen to a record low. Figures released by the authority show sickness has dropped from a high of 12.2 days per employee in January 2007, to just above eight.

The fall means average sickness levels have now been driven below the council’s target of nine days per worker. Councillor Phil Turner, Basildon Council’s cabinet member for Resources, welcomed the reduction.

He said:“We are pleased our sickness figures have continued to fall and are now below our target level. Sickness has dropped by 33 per cent in the last 15 months, which equates to an extra 20 staff delivering services to residents. We have introduced a range of measure to tackle sickness absence while at the same time continuing to support our staff as they deserve. This approach is helping to boost productivity, protect the health of our staff and ensure taxpayers’ money is being used efficiently.”

Staff on long-term sickness were included in the average figures and the majority of employees take fewer sick days. Among the measures being used to tackle sickness includes an occupational health service which requires staff to report in when they are sick. This allows for better monitoring of sickness trends and offers individuals immediate support from day one of any illness. Managers have also been given specialist training in dealing with sickness absence that includes interviewing individuals returning to work after a bout of illness to identify any underlying causes.

Green Art Exhibition for Eastgate Centre

2008-05-24T05:42:00.000-07:00

A 'green art' exhibition is opening in Basildon to promote environmental awareness among local businesses. Dozens of companies from across the district are entering artwork into the show being held in the Eastgate shopping centre. The exhibition opens to residents on Friday 30 May and closes on Saturday 7 June.

More than 45 paintings, pictures, and sculptures will go on display for shoppers during a week long exhibition outside Debenhams. They include a dragonfly made out of recycled shopping trolleys and a five-foot tree constructed from recycled materials.

There will also be a garden waste wheelie bin sprouting a giant daffodiland a life-size bust made from recycled rubbish. The Basildon Art Challenge, expected to become an annual event, is being organised by the Green Business Forum. The forum, funded by Basildon Council, offers free advice to help businesses reduce their impact on the environment and make efficiency savings.

Colin Stroud of the Green Business Forum said:“We challenged local businesses to come up with artwork that reflects their view on how green Basildon is. We are delighted so many companies have shown a commitment to adopting greener ways of working by entering the competition. We hope the exhibition encourages both shoppers and businesses to become more environmentally aware.”

The artwork will be on display for a week before a panel of judges picks a winner from among three categories – best under 16, best over 16 and best professional artist. In the last year, businesses working with the forum have saved nearly a million pounds through environmental improvements.

Forum experts helped businesses save £735,000 on energy, £165,000 on cardboard waste and £17,000 on water. Among the businesses taking part in the competition are McDonalds, Waterstones, Anglian Water and Hobby Craft. The exhibition is being sponsored by English Partnerships, Basildon ArtsTrust, Eastgate and IFDS.

Motorist Lands £240 Fine for Dumping Rubbish

2008-05-22T16:58:00.000-07:00

A motorist has been fined £240 after dumping rubbish from his car window. Terrance Ormandy, 45, was stuck in traffic in Cranfield Park Road last year when he chucked paper out of his silver Ford Focus.

He was spotted by an official from the Environment Agency who reported his car registration details to Basildon Council. Officials tracked down Ormandy, of Henderson Gardens, Wickford, and issued him with a fixed penalty notice of £75. He failed to pay and was ordered to appear before Basildon magistrates court (22 May) where he was found guilty of littering under the Environmental Protection Act.In his absence, he was fined £75, and ordered to pay costs of £150 plus a victim surcharge of £15

Home Secretary Backs Angela Smith's Guide to Anti-Social Behaviour Law

2008-05-22T16:48:00.000-07:00

The Home Secretary, Jacqui Smith (above, right), joined Angela Smith, MP for Basildon & East Thurrock (above left), to launch her new guide to the law on anti-social behaviour at Parliament this week.

The 32-page “Basildon & East Thurrock Anti-Social Behaviour Handbook” is a guide to the law on a range of nuisance issues from fireworks to graffiti and vandalism to noise.

Angela Smith said, “too many residents have to contact me about nuisance neighbours, youth vandalism or noisy parties, not knowing who to turn to for help or what the law is on different matters. That is why I have published this handbook, which spells out what action people can ask the police or local authorities to take on each matter.”

Speaking at Angela’s launch of the booklet at the House of Commons, Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said, “the community needs to know what tools the Labour Government have provided to take action on anti-social behaviour. I welcome the active support of Angela Smith in helping publicise this information to her constituents”

Angela added, “I am proud of the tough legislation this Labour Government has brought in to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour. But it’s not going to be effective unless everyone knows what the law is, and how to take action. I hope this will help empower individuals and local communities to improve their neighbourhoods.”

Copies of the “Basildon & East Thurrock Anti-Social Behaviour Handbook” can be obtained free from Angela’s parliamentary office on 020 7219 6273.

Angela Smith MP wants to Hear About Unfair Wheelclamping

2008-05-22T16:46:00.000-07:00

Following representations from Angela Smith MP, the Home Affairs Select Committee is to set up an investigation into excessive wheelclamping in car parks.

After hearing of her complaints on behalf of her constituents, Keith Vaz MP, the Chairman of the House of Commons Home Affairs Select Committee has written to Angela asking her to provide evidence of constituents who have been treated unfairly on this issue.

Angela said, “too many people have fallen victim to over-zealous private car park operators, who have clamped cars and charged excessive fees for their release. I would like to urge anyone who has suffered in this way to contact me at the House of Commons, London, SW1A OAA or call me on 020 7219 6273.”

For further information, please contact Angela Smith MP 020 7219 6273 or text 07889 821037.

Baron Challenges Government over Post Office Closures

2008-05-22T16:39:00.000-07:00

Speaking in the House of Commons yesterday, John Baron MP challenged Business Secretary John Hutton MP at Question Time over the future of the Post Office Card Account and the viability of small Post Offices. With branches closing across the constituency, John believes the Card Account could provide valuable business for Post Offices and help keep more open.

In his question, John asked: “Given that the National Federation of sub-Postmasters believe that a failure to keep the Post Office Card Account will result in a further 3,000 Post Office closures, will the Secretary of State now listen to residents up and down the country who are fed-up with Post Office closures and give a firm undertaking that the decision on the Card Account will be announced before the Summer Recess in a statement to the House?”

In reply, John Hutton said it is widely accepted that some Post Offices must close.

Later, John pressed Leader of the House of Commons, Harriet Harman MP, on the contradiction between John Hutton forcing Post Office closures on communities up and down the country whilst campaigning against closures in his own area.

Afterwards, John said: “There is huge public interest in the fact that, on the one hand, the Government is forcing 2,500 Post Offices to close whilst, on the other, the Secretary of State for Business is opposing a closure in his own back yard. This smacks of hypocrisy and I am pressing the Government to come clean in a statement to the House.”

Billericay GP Surgeries Closure Threat --- Meeting

2008-05-22T04:27:00.000-07:00

For those press wishing to discuss the threat to GP surgeries in Billericay, John Baron MP, GPs and Councillors are hosting a brief meeting at 2.00pm on Friday, 23 May at 125 Bramble Tye, Noak Bridge, SS15 5GR.

If you are concerned about the threat, attend the meeting, find out more and make your views heard.

High Sheriff Praises Police and Organisations Helping Victims of Domestic Violence

2008-05-21T17:17:00.000-07:00

Police and organisations that help victims of domestic violence have been praised by the new High Sheriff of Essex for their “professionalism and compassion.”

Mrs Sarah Courage made the comments after meeting domestic abuse specialists at Basildon police station and visiting a women’s refuge and 'move on' housing in the area.

“It was the first time I have seen this vital work at close hand and everything I saw and heard showed what a professional, well-organised and compassionate service is being provided by excellent people,” said Mrs Courage, who was appointed the 828th High Sheriff of Essex last month.

In her capacity as the Queen’s representative on law and order she will spend her year in office visiting Essex police stations and other organisations involved in tackling crime. She will also be raising money to fund voluntary work aimed at reducing crime and also the fear of crime.

During her visit to Basildon Mrs Courage spoke at length with police officers who investigate domestic violence in the South West Division of Essex Police which also includes the Thurrock district. The Basildon domestic abuse team dealt with 2,264 incidents (the second highest number in Essex after Southend with 2,826) in the district in the year to March 2008, while colleagues at Grays police station investigated 1,652 incidents (the fifth highest in Essex) throughout the Thurrock district.

In both districts 60 per of the attackers were convicted, charged or cautioned. The majority were men, although a small number of women were prosecuted or cautioned for violence against a spouse. Ds Lydia George from Grays and Dc Andy Jackson, based at Basildon, told Mrs Courage and her husband Charles, about some of the most serious cases they had dealt with, but both expressed concern at the number of cases being dropped because women were often reluctant to press charges against violent husbands, partners and children.

“Most of the time the innocent victims are the children who see their father continually beating their mother and grow to accept it as the norm,” said Dc Jackson.

The High Sheriff was also told of cases where domestic violence had led to child abuse, or of fathers harming a family pet in front of children, using attachment to a pet to ensure continuing control of their victims. Domestic violence is caused by one party (usually the man) exerting power and control over another (usually the woman) and often the rows are precipitated by a general breakdown in a relationship, the loss of a job or financial hardship.

But statistics also show an increase in violence when a favourite football team loses. Domestic violence increased on the day the England football team was knocked out of the European championships and there have been cases linked to the defeat of London premiership teams.

Insp Nick Burston, vulnerable victims co-ordinator for Essex Police, said that a domestic violence court set up last year at Grays had speeded up the handling of the high number of prosecutions from Basildon and Thurrock districts. The court is held before a team of specially trained magistrates and uses specialist facilities such as video links and screens to avoid further conflict between couples.

Insp Burston also said that police in South West Division were also helping to pioneer a scheme for closer co-ordination with other agencies to help to identify cases of domestic violence quicker. She said: “Multi-agency risk assessment conferencing (MARAC) is proving very successful in Basildon and Thurrock and will be rolled out across the whole of Essex during this year.

“The project is victim-focused and has allowed various agencies to share information and put forward action to provide all-round safety plans for victims of violence and their children.”

The High Sheriff later saw evidence of the safety plans when she visited a women’s refuge run by Basildon Women’s Aid and a further location which helps rescued families to adapt to life in a new home.

Mrs Courage spoke to workers at the refuges and also to women who were being cared in the secure shelters. She said: “Wonderful work is being carried out in the refuges. They have thought of everything to help women who have felt so much unhappiness in their lives.

"The residents in the refuges are very brave to have left their husbands to step into the unknown. But they have broken away from a life of violence to find somewhere welcoming and safe.”

Pictured with the High Sheriff and her husband are from left: Insp Nick Burston; Ds Lydia George; Dc Andy Jackson and (far right) Sophie Bartlett, an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor who is based at Basildon police station.

To report cases of domestic violence contact:

The domestic abuse units at Basildon or Grays on 0300 333 4444.

National Women's Aid helpline 0808 2000247

Basildon Women’s Aid ( weekdays 01268 521666)

Victim Support on 0845 4565995

The Men’s Advice and Inquiry Line on 0845 0646800

Respect Phoneline (Advice for violent and abusive men) 0845 1228609

Financial Protection for Future Council Budgets

2008-05-21T16:21:00.000-07:00

Basildon Council's financial management team is to take advantage of rule changes introduced by the government to build in extra safeguards to protect future council budgets.

As a result of changes in the law, the council has a unique opportunity to use the money it had previously been required to set aside to meet its debt management expenses to make significant savings against its budget forecasts over the next few years.

Councillors at next week’s (22 May) annual meeting will be asked to agree to put the savings made in 2007-08, estimated at £239,000, into the council’s contingency fund and that all similar sums up to March 2013, estimated at a further £2.6 million, be also transferred to the contingency fund.

The changes allow the council to keep and manage this element of its own money rather than be directed by the government on how to use it. In Basildon’s case, this money would be put to one side and used only for any unfunded exceptional expenditure.

The decision will not affect the actual level of debt outstanding or the actual repayment of any loans due. The proposed approach has been declared acceptable by the council’s external auditors.

Councillor Phil Turner, cabinet member for resources, said: “Here is another example of the council’s creativity and prudent financial management paying dividends. We have followed the regulations to the letter and taken great care in developing this initiative.

“This has now allowed us to take advantage of changes in the rules and use the extra funds released to help protect the council in the current uncertain financial climate, and help us produce prudent, balanced and affordable budgets over the next few years. This is good news for our residents as it gives us greater financial stability and will therefore help avoid any sharp increases in council tax levels from year to year.”

Become a Good Companion

2008-05-21T06:56:00.000-07:00

Do you fancy doing something to help in the community?

Rethink Good Companions is a befriending service which covers South Essex and has over 140 volunteers. However, the Basildon area is in great need of more volunteers. Could you be one? Would you be prepared to befriend someone?

Rethink Good Companions ask for one or two hours per week or fortnight to simply be a friend to someone. This could involve meeting for a chat over coffee, sharing a hobby or going for a walk.

The service is now 10 years old and volunteers enjoy the new social life they gain whilst helping those affected by severe mental illness recover a better quality of life.

A new course of training starts in Pitsea on Wednesday evenings through June - to find out more phone Alison on 01702 343222.

Radio Station Seeks Volunteers

2008-05-20T09:13:00.000-07:00

On visiting a community radio station, Andy Burnham MP, Secretary of State for Culture Media and Sport said: “I’m incredibly impressed by what I’ve seen so far. Just by speaking to the people involved it’s clear that it’s passion, and it’s a passion that’s changing lives. It’s a great thing, and as we look to the future, and look at the things that technology will make possible I think that more communities will be taking control of their own media, rather than being spoon fed media from the top down by a very remote media company. Let’s have some media from local communities speaking to local communities.”

We rather like that. In fact it's just what is happening in Basildon and East Thurrock. If you are interested in getting involved with information and entertainment, with news and reviews, with lifestyle and interests, music and technology ---- then join Gateway FM. Simply call 01268 521299 or email info@gatewayfm.com to arrange a visit so you can see what is going on and join the most exciting team putting together a package that will make a real difference, that will help build real community spirit and give opportunities to people young and old, whatever their backgrounds or experience.

Vange Cops Get Better Bikes

2008-05-20T05:49:00.000-07:00

Two top-of-the-range mountain bikes have been presented to a neighbourhood policing team in Vange to help them patrol their beats more effectively. South Anglia Housing, which manages 700 of the 1,200 homes in the area, bought the bikes so that officers and police community support officers (PCSOs) could reach incidents quicker and cover more ground on the estate.

It is the latest partnership project between South Anglia Housing and Essex Police who have been working together since 2004 to reduce crime and the fear of crime.

Caroline Kaldani, acting head of community development for South Anglia Housing said: “I am delighted to present the new mountain bikes to the Vange policing team.

“We are committed to working together with Essex Police to make the Vange estate a safer place for all residents to live. Working with our local policing team and providing them with the best tools for the job to prevent and tackle crime and anti-social behaviour is another way of striving towards this.”

Pc Gareth Lee, the neighbourhood specialist officer (NSO) for Vange said: “We are very grateful to South Anglia Housing. The bikes are superb and will help us to get around the estate and meet more residents. They will also help officers who would normally be on foot to reach incidents faster.”

Pictured outside the estate offices shared by Essex Police and South Anglia Housing are from left: Hannah White from South Anglia; PCSO Helen Damiano, Pc Gareth Lee, Caroline Kaldani; PCSO Jacqueline Jones and Vicky Brooke from South Anglia.

Free Football Coaching for Kids

2008-05-20T05:22:00.000-07:00

Young footballers can practice their skills at free coaching sessions in Basildon. Players can learn new tips and tricks at the Swan Mead multi-use games area in Church Road, Vange.

It comes after Basildon Council secured £18,000 of funding to run training sessions using its own top coaches. The sessions run on Tuesdays from 6pm to 8pm for ages 12 to 15. Wednesdays from 8pm to 9.30pm for ages 18 and over. Thursdays for girls from 6pm to 7pm and boys from 7pm to 8pm, ages 11 to 16. The funding has been provided by Barclays spaces for sport football foundation.

European Paintball Championship Comes to Basildon

2008-05-20T04:42:00.000-07:00

An army of extreme sports fans is set to invade Basildon this weekend for the European paintball championships. More than 140 teams from 32 countries are preparing to do battle in Gloucester Park during the three-day competition.

Known as the Millennium Series, it is the pinnacle of world paintball and will see 2,000 competitors and support staff flood into the district. The event is returning to Basildon – the only UK leg of the competition –after being held in the athletics stadium for the first time last year.

Paul Brace, Basildon Council’s cultural services manager, secured the event for the district. He said: “We are delighted to have persuaded the tournament to return to Basildon following its success last year. This is one of the most prized competitions in world paintball and it’s great for the district to be staging such an important event. Gloucester Park will be transformed into a world-class paintball venuewhere more than 600 matches will be played on five purpose built pitches. The action is free for people to watch and we hope hundreds of spectatorscome along to enjoy the excitement.

“The tournament not only promises great fun for residents but also a bonanza for local businesses as thousands of player and fans descend on the district.”

Basildon is staging the second leg of the European tour, which also stops off at other countries including France and Germany. Competitors from as far away as Russia will take part in the action, with the winning teams set to go on to compete in the US later in the year.

The teams battle it out across a range of professional and amateur leagues. They typically include between five and seven players, with many of those in the top leagues competing as paid professionals.

The games are highly skilled, the contestants accomplished athletes. The action is rather like extremely high speed chess in which each team carefully plans its moves and countermoves in an attempt to neutralise the opposition and hit the target buzzer.

It's a young sport with a youthful, trendy profile. Don't for a minute imagine it has anything to do with middle aged wannabe soldiers playing games in the woods.

In addition to the competition, there will be a paintball trade exhibition, fair rides, bar and food court.

The championships are being held in the Basildon athletics stadium in Gloucester Park. The event opens to the public and competitors on Thursday 22 May. Competition starts on Friday 23 May and culminates with the finals on Sunday 25 May.

Laptop and Broadband Prize Draw for Over 50s

2008-05-20T02:54:00.000-07:00

As part of St. Georges Community Housing’s (SGCH) Adult Learners Week activities, Basildon council tenants and leaseholders have the chance to win a laptop computer and a year's broadband internet subscription.

Gareth Allcock, Account Director for the sponsor, Connaught
Partnerships, said: “We are delighted to help encourage wider use of
technology among older people, by supporting our partner in this innovative
campaign.”

To be in with a chance of winning, residents must be:
1. Over 50
2. Not already have a broadband Internet access
3. Not be an employee of Basildon Council, SGCH or one of its contractors

Qualifying Basildon Council tenants or leaseholders attending one of the internet taster sessions provided by St George's will automatically be entered into the prize draw.

Steve Shynn, interim Chief Executive of St George's, said: "Adult Learners Week
gives SGCH the opportunity to build on the success of last year’s Silver Surfers
Day. With the support of Essex Libraries in Basildon, we are offering
opportunities across Basildon district for people to try the internet. Connaught
have generously offered to sponsor this prize as part of the ongoing partnership
with St Georges".

The sessions lasting 45 minutes will be held at venues across the district, including; Dunton Court, Laindon on Monday 19 May and Thursday 22 May, and at the Tenant Resource Centre in Westgate on Wednesday 21 May. All three venues will be operating from 10:30 – 14:30. To book your place contact SGCH on 01268 465100.

Join a Conservation Work Party to Keep Fit Creatively

2008-05-20T02:43:00.000-07:00

If you really want to keep fit and enrich our environment, then how about getting plent of fresh air and exercise by joining a conservation work party at Noak Bridge nature reserve.

Volunteers are invited to help build stag beetle pyramids throughout the beauty spot on Wednesday 21 May from 1pm to 3pm. The pyramids are made out of long and short logs buried vertically in the ground. They provide a habitat for insects which rely on dead or rotting wood, helping them, and the animals that eat them, to thrive.

Gloves, tea and coffee are provided. All ages welcome. Meet at the entrance to Noak Bridge nature reserve in Wash Road. For more information call Mark Williams on 01268 562921.

This really does seem a sensible way to get fit --- perhaps the Council should consider promoting much more of this sort of thing.

Basildon Choral Society Concert Date

2008-05-20T02:40:00.000-07:00

Basildon Choral Society will be giving their next concert on Saturday 14th June at St. Martin’s church in Basildon.

The concert – ‘A Little Light Music’ will include a variety of different works including folk songs, negro spirituals, songs from shows and several light classical pieces.

The concert rounds off an eventful time for the choir which will be performing these pieces in Germany at the end of May as part of their visit to Northern Bavaria.

Ticket prices for 14th June are £10, and £8 concessions. Young people under 16 have free admission as usual.

New Criminal Record Screening to Cost £64

2008-05-18T11:01:00.000-07:00

The good news for people who want to work with children and vulnerable adults is that a new vetting, barring and registration scheme will begin in October 2009, the new Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) has announced. The scheme will keep a list of people who are barred from working or volunteering with children and vulnerable adults.

The downside is that there is a £64 fee that will include the existing £36 fee for clearance from the Criminal Record Bureau (CRB). The advantage of the new system is that applicants will only have to pay once and will not need new clearance when changing jobs or places of work. For volunteers and the organisations taking them on, the process will be free.

However, a volunteer with ISA clearance who later begins paid employment, will be required to pay. The CRB will be responsible for gathering information on applicants and passing it on to the ISA which will then decide whether a person should be barred from working with children or vulnerable adults.

The ISA assessments will include so-called ‘soft information’ that includes details of allegations made against applicants, even if proved false. It will also include details of disciplinary procedures in former employment.

The chief executive of the ISA claims that the new system will not allow every detail about a person’s life to be passed to the ISA. However, if someone is found not guilty in court, or a case were to be discontinued, there can be many complicated reasons, including the vulnerability of a witness for example, so that decisions about what information to pass to the ISA 'will be taken very seriously and will be appropriate, proportionate, carefully considered and consistent.'

How reassuring.

Ian Huntley's history was not apparent to those who employed him as a school caretaker partly because people made mistakes, partly because he lied.

When people make decisions, albeit careful, appropriate, proportionate etc., they may still make mistakes. Some of those mistakes may be of fact. Indeed, it is disconcerting to think that this administrative body should be administering judicial decisions affecting a person's future on the basis of 'soft information' --- unattributable allegations, hearsay, gossip --- the sort of thing a court would dismiss as unreliable evidence.

Evidentiary rules may be strict: but they offer valuable protection against malicious, mischievous or downright false allegation.

It is claimed that as well as extending the scope of the present vetting and barring arrangements to a much wider category of people, the new scheme will constantly be updated. Thus the ISA will monitor reports made to it so that in the case of a person receiving a conviction that could make him or her unsuitable to work with children or vulnerable adults, the authority would decide whether to put an entry on the list and whether to inform the employer.

People will have to register only once, unlike in the current system in which multiple CRB clearances may be necessary to cover every workplace, paid or voluntary. Once a person is registered with the scheme it is claimed that the monitoring will be consistent and continuous.

This ongoing nature of assessment requires that employers will need to inform the ISA of their concerns about staff who have been dismissed for 'inappropriate behaviour'. It is interesting to speculate whether employers should contact the ISA about staff they have dismissed, or positions that they have constructively made redundant, on different pretexts to avoid implying concerns about 'inappropriate behaviour' as the cause in order to avoid litigation.

After all, an employer may need to be extremely careful about dismissing somebody on the basis of the sort of 'soft information' the ISA may consider appropriate to bar a person from registration. This situation seems a trifle absurd.

At present, the plan is to phase in the scheme over the next three years. The Home Office will not be drawn on its assessment of the phasing in period, and some charities are suggesting it might take ten years. Some 11.3 million people in England, Wales and Northern Ireland will need to be registered.

Previous history is not too encouraging. When Criminal Records Bureau checks were first introduced to check the criminal backgrounds of everyone working with children or vulnerable adults in schools, voluntary organisations or professional bodies, the scheme was launched six months late because of IT difficulties. An emergency rescue plan was introduced that used computer operators in India to input details of 35,000 people. Although those problems are history, it still takes far too long to process checks - especially in London, which accounts for 15 per cent of them.

The present system requires an employer recruiting someone to work with children or vulnerable adults to apply to the Criminal Records Bureau for a 'disclosure' showing a candidate's current and spent convictions, cautions, reprimands and any warnings held on the Police National Computer.

An 'enhanced disclosure' also includes 'any relevant and proportionate information held by the local police forces'. This information enables the employer to decide whether the candidate is suitable.

The ISA, offspring of the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, goes further: it seeks to bar unsuitable people. Registration of people already working with vulnerable people will start with those whose CRB clearance dates back furthest. Once the system is fully operational, employers will be allowed to take on only registered people. They will still be able to apply for enhanced disclosures.

Is it a good thing or an over reaction to a problem highlighted by the Huntley case? Is this yet another layer of quasi-judicial organisations, albeit accountable to Parliament (it has to report annually)? It is supposed to be self financing, the theory being that fee income will pay for the premises, equipment, maintenance, 250 staff, Board of distinguished worthies etc. Let us know your thoughts.

MPs Need to Get to Grips with Epilepsy --- Charity Says

2008-05-18T09:40:00.000-07:00

Nine out of ten MPs don't know how many people in the UK have epilepsy. This is despite the fact that it is the most common serious neurological condition, affecting 456,000 UK residents. MPs' lack of awareness has been revealed today by national charity Epilepsy Action, as part of a campaign to mark National Epilepsy Week 2008 (May 18-25).

The figures were uncovered by a survey carried out by ComRes, which asked a cross section of MPs how well they were informed about epilepsy. As well as asking how many people live with epilepsy, the survey asked about the current state of epilepsy care in the UK.

Over half (54 per cent) said they didn't know how many neurologists there are in the UK. In fact, there are only 486 consultant neurologists, which falls far short of the 909 recommended by the Royal College of Physicians. This significant shortage is highlighted by the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Epilepsy report 'Wasted money, wasted lives', launched in June 2007.

Simon Wigglesworth, Epilepsy Action's deputy chief executive, said that a number of MPs have shown great commitment to highlighting the needs of people with epilepsy. For example, in producing the APPG report and bringing to notice the plight of epilepsy specialist nurses under threat last year. "We are fortunate to have some excellent supporters in the House of Commons but we need more. It is only when more people understand epilepsy that we can take real steps to deliver better healthcare for people living with the condition."

The problems facing people with epilepsy in getting the recognition they need were brought into sharp focus this week after Health Services Minister, Ann Keen for the third time pulled out of a meeting to discuss epilepsy services. Attempts to reschedule a meeting with the minister have so far failed.

Simon Wigglesworth said: "Hold ups in establishing meetings to discuss proposed improvements to services only lead to longer delays for patients waiting for much needed better care."

Epilepsy Action is urging members of the public to raise awareness of epilepsy by visiting or writing to their MP. Template letters are available on www.epilepsy.org.uk

The hope is that this will re-focus their attention on the 30 recommendations in the APPG report. Without these improvements, people with epilepsy will continue to experience unnecessary seizures and face an unnecessarily increased risk of avoidable death.

Ryan's Back on The Air

2008-05-15T09:49:00.000-07:00

Year 10 Sawyers Hall student Ryan Stokes is currently working with the local radio station for Basildon & East Thurrock, Gateway FM.

The station is community based so will feature lots of information from around the area. It broadcasts live from the Eastgate Centre at the heart of Basildon, from their shop next to the 99p Store on the first floor.

He started work with them in November last year, when he first took the drivetime co-presenting position up until Christmas Eve, when the station went off air.

Since then Ryan has been taking weekly visits to the station for training sessions, online shows, road shows, or anything else that might come up. But Gateway FM will be back on the air from 23rd June until 20th July, and Ryan will once again be working along side Ros Connors in the drivetime position.

However, there is one difference this time round from back in December. Each Friday Ryan will also be presenting his own show between 9-10PM. This show is aimed at school kids, and will feature news from the schools, bands from the Battle Of The Bands, and much more.
To listen to Ryan on Gateway FM tune into 87.7 during 23rd June – 20th July or listen online from http://www.gatewayfm.com. He’ll be on the airwaves weekdays between 4 and 7, and also with Schools Out from 9-10 on Fridays.

(First published on Sawyers Hall College website)

Laindon Man Lands £10k Fine for Planning Breach

2008-05-15T09:47:00.000-07:00

A LAINDON man has been fined a total of £10,000 with £4,000 costs for refusing to stop work on his home extension for which he had no planning permission.

Basildon magistrates imposed the fines on Douglas Dunn, 50, yesterday (14 May) after finding him guilty on two counts of breaching a temporary stop notice by continuing to build a large and prominent front extension at his home Wheatfield, in Wash Road, without planning permission.

The enforcement notice, which orders him to take down the extension, remains in force. The case began late in 2006 when Basildon planners issued a temporary stop notice as the large extension was being built. A second stop notice and an enforcement notice followed in 2007 when work on the structure continued.

Mr Dunn applied for retrospective planning permission but this was refused. An appeal against this decision also failed. More time was allowed for Mr Dunn to comply with the enforcement order and when this was not implemented, the council prosecuted.

Council Provides New Offices for CAB

2008-05-15T09:39:00.000-07:00

The major refurbishment of the council’s headquarters building, the Basildon Centre, has created an added bonus for the voluntary sector.

First to benefit is the Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB) whose new offices on the ground floor of the centre were opened today (Thursday) by Councillor Terri Sargent, cabinet member for communities.

The refurbished public area of the Basildon Centre has been designed to give better and more efficient access to services to the many thousands of residents who visit every year. For the CAB this means new, larger offices, an improved layout, extra advising rooms and a staffed reception area. These will allow the bureau provide a more efficient service to its clients and to deliver high quality and highly valued advice to those who look to the CAB service to help with their problems.

Basildon Council is a major supporter of the CAB and provides them with an annual grant of nearly £129,000. The new offices will also benefit from a 90 per cent reduction in the council’s normal rent charges and council tax.

Other voluntary organisations are due to benefit from the changes as building works at the Basildon Centre are completed. Basildon CAB office offers clients scheduled appointments during the week and a drop in service on Saturday mornings.

They provide free, confidential and impartial advice and information on a wide range of issues including debt, benefits, housing, employment, health and immigration.

Councillor Terri Sargent said: “This has been an exciting project for all involved and we are proud to have played such a key part in providing a new home for a service which is so highly valued not only by the council but also by all our residents".

John Baron Meets Royal British Legion in Parliament

2008-05-15T03:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday in Parliament, John Baron MP attended the annual Royal British Legion Parliamentary Reception. This event is an opportunity for MPs to be briefed on the excellent work and campaigns which the Legion coordinates and a chance for the Legion to thank those Parliamentarians who have helped to raise these issues in the House of Commons regarding our Armed Forces.

John said: “The Legion does great work supporting the ex-service community and our soldiers around the world. But we as MPs also have a duty to ensure the Government upholds its end of the Military Covenant. Having raised a number of issues in the House during the past year, this event was a good opportunity to meet with the Legion and reflect on past achievements and future challenges.”

Stephen Metcalfe Renews Call for Better Road Links

2008-05-14T09:58:00.000-07:00

Stephen Metcalfe, Prospective Conservative Member of Parliament for South Basildon & East Thurrock has renewed calls for a second access road to the £1.5 billion super-port at Coryton.

He has expressed deep concern over local transport infrastructure after the Department of Transport issued a Harbour Empowerment Order, giving the final seal of approval for work to start on the new London Gateway development.

Construction work at the 1,850 acre site could start later this year: the port's first berth is expected to open by 2011 and the port should be fully operational by 2018. As part of the deal to win Government approval, Dubai based DP World, the company behind the London Gateway port, has pledged £100 million to be spent on improving local road networks.

Improvements include:
• Installing noise barriers
• Resurfacing The Manorway from Corringham to Stanford-le-Hope with low-noise tarmac
• Moving the Sorrells roundabout away from nearby homes
• Widening the A13 and improving the junction with the M25
More detailed plans should be released next month.

Stephen Metcalfe said: "I welcome the measures that have been put in place, but I am still disappointed that no new roads are planned to the London Gateway port and business park. The Government needs to ensure adequate road and rail infrastructure is in place to cope with the massive increase in traffic when the port is fully open and running."

"The need for a second access route was first called for by the Shell Haven Project Action Committee (SPEAC) but firmly rejected by the Government planning enquiry. I have met with Local and County Councillors and have been meeting and listening to people on the doorstep. I have also met with SPEAC and heard their frustration about the lack of proper access to the site and the effect it will have on surrounding areas.

"I would like to see a second access route put firmly back onto the political agenda. We already have the tanker traffic to and from the refinery at Coryton and when the port is completed the site will generate thousands of lorry movements a day along the Manorway, let alone the additional traffic from the port employees. I am concerned that the pollution, noise and fumes will be intolerable for local residents and want to see more done to help them."

Caption: Stephen Metcalfe and newly elected Thurrock Councillor Danny Nicklen share concern about impact of super-port on local residents.

Basildon Cops Raise £3,000 --- Walking

2008-05-13T12:04:00.000-07:00

Five Essex police officers have completed the first section of a gruelling 630-mile sponsored walk to raise money for a young constable left severely disabled after a sporting accident.

The team from Basildon police station trekked nearly 104 miles in six days and expect to raise more than £3,000 for Arron Williams, 25, who was based at Pitsea before he broke his neck playing rugby last September.

The walk is around the South West Coast Path which runs from Minehead in Somerset around the coast of Devon and Cornwall to finish at Poole in Dorset. The Basildon team completed the first phase to Hartland Quay, Devon on Saturday (May 10) before handing over to a team of officers from Pitsea police station who are now tackling the section from Hartland Quay to Perranporth.

Five other teams will cover four further sections of the walk to reach Poole on June 14. It is hoped that together the 50 officers involved will raise more than £12,000. Inspector David Miller, who organised the walk, was on the first section with district commander Chief Inspector Mark Wheeler, Insp Simon Dobinson, Insp Pat Mahoney, Sgt Cathy Gray and their support van driver Mim Moy.

“Despite our training walks and preparations the first few days of the walk were a real shock to the system,” said Insp Miller. “It was much harder than we thought and at first we struggled to keep going up and down over steep hills with gradients of about one in four. We all had blisters for the first few days but then we really got into our stride and we were easily coping with 12-15 miles or so in a day even in blazing sun and temperatures up to 70F.”

As well as raising money through sponsorship the Basildon team also returned with £430 raised from donations given by people along the route and also from a charity skittles match in a pub at Ilfracombe. The event was arranged by Ted Davidson, a retired Essex police office who now lives in Devon.

"We stopped at Ted’s place for a huge cream tea one afternoon before pressing on. We later returned to Ilfracombe for the skittles match against teams from the pub, local police and a local rugby club. A local businessman laid on a large buffet and some special raffle prizes were donated, including a voucher for a meal at Ilfracombe’s trendy Quay Restaurant, owned by the artist Damien Hirst.

“It was a fantastic night and thanks to the remarkable generosity of the local people it raised £360," said Insp Miller. "We held our own in the skittles match and managed to come a close last. We were presented with a wooden spoon engraved with some very strange skittle terms and we shall present it to Arron.”

Insp Miller was also given another usual gift for Arron when he stopped at a Devon farm to buy some sheepskin fleece rugs for his children. “The chap who runs the farm asked us about the sponsored walk and we told him that is was for Arron, after he was involved in a rugby accident. The farmer said that he was a rugby fan and had played himself and he wanted to do something for Arron. So he gave a special sheepskin for Arron to use on his wheelchair. It was a marvellous gesture.”

Money was also raised along the route when local people and tourists stopped the walkers and asked about their fundraising. Insp Miller added: “We met people from Essex who wanted to help by donating a few pounds and other walkers also chipped in. We raised about £70 from donations along the way.”

The team camped for the first four nights but the second two were spent at an hotel after the owner heard of the charity walk and wanted to help.“We were given free accommodation for the last night at the Hartland Quay Hotel. This was a truly charitable act by the managers Jill and Chris which meant that we could divert more funds towards Arron,” said Insp Miller.

Arron has been keeping in touch with the walkers by mobile telephone and is looking forward to a get-together at the end of the walk where he will thank all the walkers personally.Insp Miller said that the money raised would be used to buy equipment to help Arron lead as normal a life as possible. But Arron has also asked that about £6,000 should be donated to Stoke Mandeville Hospital to buy a special piece of equipment to help people in his position at the early stage of their injury.

Around £200 has been donated by people visiting Basildon police station and anyone wishing to support the walkers should send cheques, made payable to the Basildon Police Sports and Social Fund, to Insp David Miller, Basildon Police Station, Great Oaks, Basildon, SS14 1EJ.

Pictured from left are: Insp Pat Mahoney, Chief Insp Mark Wheeler, Sgt Cathy Gray, Insp Simon Dobinson and Insp David Miller on a track high above the Devon coastline

MP Hails New RSBP Lease as Good News for Wildlife & Conservation

2008-05-13T05:08:00.000-07:00

On Monday, John Baron MP was shown the site of a proposed new sustainable wetland system on 270 hectares of land at Pitsea Marsh and Bowers Marshes. The project, which will include extensive wet grassland, scrapes and salt marsh, has been made possible by the granting of a 150 year peppercorn lease of land by Veolia Environmental Services (the operator of the adjoining Pitsea Waste Management facility) to the RSPB.

Commenting, John said: “This exciting new wetland system will provide a range of habitats for rare wildlife such as water voles and bitterns. Public access to the South Essex Marshes will also be extended significantly, allowing people to enjoy nature as it’s meant to be and learn more about protecting the environment.

“Too often we see the over-development of our green spaces, so congratulations to Veolia and the RSPB for conserving the natural environment and encouraging local wildlife. The new project will be a fun resource for the whole family and help raise awareness of conservation issues. This ambitious scheme will really help to put the Essex Marshes back on the map.”

John Baron MP Opens Landfill Gas Engines

2008-05-13T05:03:00.000-07:00

On Friday, John Baron MP helped Pitsea landfill operators Veolia reduce global warning and promote renewable energy by officially opening two new landfill gas-to-energy engines at the Pitsea landfill site.

The gas is produced when household rubbish rots down in the landfill. It is collected and pumped to a compound where special engines turn the carbon dioxide and methane into ‘green’ electricity.

Cutting the ribbon between the two new engines, John said: “Turning this landfill gas – which would otherwise make a significant contribution towards global warming – into a renewable energy source is a double bonus for the environment. It reduces the unsustainable consumption of fossil fuels such as coal, gas and oil and also reduces the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere.

“Even the gas collection system itself is sustainable – using solar and wind power to operate electric pumps in the furthest corners of the site.”

John Baron Backs Silva Island Way Anti-pub Campaign

2008-05-13T04:50:00.000-07:00

On Friday, John visited Silva Island Way, Wickford to see for himself the proposed extension to existing shops which would create an additional retail unit and public house.

John said: “A pub would not be a good idea. There are schools and nurseries very nearby, which is a factor given the increased traffic and possible disorderly behaviour from the pub. In addition, the increased noise would not be welcome, whilst anyone who wants a drink can visit the community centre next door.”

“This proposal is not needed or wanted. I shall therefore be writing to Basildon Council to voice my objection by the 21st May deadline, and I would encourage others to do the same.”

Contact your MP

2008-05-13T04:46:00.000-07:00

Angela Smith MP for basildon and East Thurrock is always pleased to hear from constituents and anxious to keep them informed about her work in the area.

This is what she writes:

Dear Resident,
I am always happy to respond to enquiries from my constituents. Just email my parliamentary office at flackk@parliament.uk.
To keep in touch with my local activity please go to www.mpangelasmith.org
Yours faithfully, Angela Smith MP

Young Bands Wanted for BasFest Boom Room

2008-05-13T03:41:00.000-07:00

Young bands and DJs have the opportunity to perform live on an exclusive stage in front of thousands of fans at the two-day Basildon Festival in Gloucester Park.

The two-day event, held in Gloucester Park, attracted more than 30,000 revellers last summer.
Among the headlining acts at this year’s festival are the X-Factor finalists, Journey South, and the Bootleg Beatles.

Grant Taylor, a community development officer for Basildon Council, said: “This is a fantastic chance for young stars to climb on stage and perform live in front of a festival crowd. We’re searching for talented musicians across any genre ranging from rock and R&B to techno and drum and base. We hope it gives young people a chance to showcase their talent and live their dream of performing live on stage.”

The event is part of the council’s live gigs programme, known as the Boom Room, which gives up and coming bands the chance to perform at venues such as the Towngate Theatre. As well as picking who gets to play, young people control each gig, learning new skills in fields such as sound engineering and stage management.

Mr Taylor added: “The Boom Room has been hugely popular with local youngsters since it was set up. It offers a springboard for ambitious bands to win new fans in front of a live audience and for other young people to learn career-focused skills."

The Basildon Festival is being held on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 July. Entrants must be under-25 years of age. They will be asked to supply a demo tape. To apply, contact Grant Taylor on 01268 294785.

New George Hurd Centre Nearing Completion

2008-05-09T17:58:00.000-07:00

The new £2m George Hurd day care centre for elderly people in Audley Way Basildon is preparing to open its doors now that construction work is complete. The two-storey building is to replace the ageing George Hurd centre in Fauners.

It follows a deal negotiated by Basildon Council giving Lovells the site of the former centre in exchange for building the new one – saving taxpayers more than £2m. Pensioners using the new George Hurd are set to benefit from a larger centre, which includes brand new facilities and additional activities such as snooker.

Local community and voluntary groups are also celebrating after being given permanent office space on the top floor. Councillor Phil Turner, cabinet member in charge of Resources, on handing the building over to Councillor Terri Sargent, cabinet member for Community Services. explained that the former centre was built more than 40 years ago and has been struggling to meet the needs of elderly residents as its ageing facilities are becoming unsuitable for modern care and are weighed down by a growing burden of repairs.

Cllr Turner added: "Instead of pouring taxpayers money into propping up an ailing building wesought a solution with the private sector. This has resulted in a much larger and better equipped centre at no extra cost to local taxpayers. The new purpose built centre will provide improved care and support for elderly people and we look forward to opening it for them."

Cllr Terri Sargent, cabinet member for Community Services, said: "The George Hurd is one of our most popular day care centres and is relied on by hundreds of elderly people each week. We are delighted to have a brand new building that will provide the first class facilities local residents deserve.

"The new centre not only offers modern day care for the elderly but also provides a permanent base for local community and voluntary groups. These have been brought together under one roof for the first time and will give older residents convenient access to the services they provide. We hope the new centre becomes an even better place for elderly people to meet friends, stay active and get the help and advice they need."

The centre includes a kitchen, lounge, dining room, hairdressing facilities, activities room, main hall, medical room and classroom. The CVS, BDVC and Wickford Talking Newspaper will are yoga, keep fit, ceramics, bingo and art. Elderly residents can also take advantage of cheap meals, an evening mealtakeaway service, day trips and transport to and from the centre.

John Baron Exercises for Health

2008-05-09T07:55:00.000-07:00

John Baron MP, helped the British Lung Foundation to raise awareness of the importance of healthy lungs at the House of Commons this week.

The British Lung Foundation is urging members of the public of all ages to protect their lungs and to keep them healthy by taking regular exercise. John Baron helped to demonstrate how exercise like cycling or brisk walking allows the lungs to deliver oxygen-rich blood to the working muscles, helping to keep us fitter and healthier.

John said: “One in every seven people is affected by lung disease. I’m therefore delighted to support the British Lung Foundation’s campaign to encourage us to look after our lungs. We don’t realise how fragile our lungs are and what an important job they do in keeping us mobile and active.”

Dame Helena Shovelton, Chief Executive of the British Lung Foundation thanked John for his support and pointed out that because lung disease is the UK’s second biggest killer, it is vital that people understand how important it is to take care of their lungs.

John Baron Urges Council to Appeal Against Judge's Ruling

2008-05-09T07:40:00.000-07:00

Commenting on today’s High Court decision to uphold the Judicial Review on behalf of the travellers at Dale Farm, Crays Hill, John said:

“This is very disappointing. The judge seemed to focus on the fact the travellers had no where else to go and that individual needs were not taken into account. To me this sends out the wrong signal and gives a green light for travellers to concrete over our greenbelt with immunity.”

“The only positive to come out of this judgment was that the Human Rights accusations against the Council were not upheld. The Council has also been given leave to appeal against this ridiculous decision, which I am encouraging it to do immediately.

“This whole episode shows that the planning and legal system at present discriminates against the law-abiding majority. The law needs to be changed, and a twin track approach adopted which would give Councils much stronger powers whilst also sharing more the responsibility to provide authorised sites. I tried to introduce this measure in my Greenbelt Protection Bill back in 2003, but it was opposed by the government.”

Basildon Council Responds to Judicial Review Outcome

2008-05-09T07:36:00.000-07:00

Mr JusticeCollins, sitting at the Royal Courts of Justice, has today announced his decision regarding the future of Gypsies and Travellers living on sites without planning permission in Basildon.

He has determined that the Council acted illegally when it decided to take direct action against Gypsies and Travellers who had set up homes without planning permission at Dale Farm in Crays Hill and on pieces of land in Hovefields Drive in Wickford.

Malcolm Buckley, Leader of the Council, said: “This is a very difficult issue for everyone concerned and you will appreciate there is a long and complex planning history for all of the sites involved. My Council has always sought to balance the competing needs of the various communities in its efforts to enforce planning law. The Council remains committed to the protection of the green belt.

“The Judge has explored a wide range of issues relevant to this case in a level of detail not seen before. The council has been given leave to appeal and we are considering the possibility.

“We are pleased that the Judge supports our view that the travellers cannot remain where they are and the greenbelt must be protected. We note the Judge’s observation that action cannot be taken before the start of the school holidays and we look forward now to a final resolution of this complex issue.”

Gypsy & Traveller Families Win Temporary Reprieve

2008-05-09T07:13:00.000-07:00

More than 40 Gypsy and Traveller families at Dale Farm in Billericay and at Hovefields in Wickford, have secured a reprieve against Basildon District Council's eviction plans.

Mr Justice Collins in the High Court said the eviction order cannot stand and ordered more time to permit appropriate enquiries concerning the families needs and welfare.

The judge acknowledged that his decison may be controversial, but warned the families they could not remain on the site indefinitely.

The issue, which has been festering for several years, concerns attempts to remove the families by means of the issue of enforcement notices.

Indeed, last December, the Council, citing section 178 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 as its authority, entered the land and sought to enforce compliance with the orders.

The judge made it quite clear that the families could not expect to remain in situ and that eventually they would have to move, whether by agreement or forcible eviction.

However, he was critical of the Council's past actions which concentrated on site clearance rather than taking account of whether such action was appropriate to the situations of the individual families affected.

In granting the Council leave to appeal, the judge pointed out that the case raised important issues concerning the hitherto insoluble problems concerning site provision for Gypsies and travellers.

How to Win the Dream Role of Cinderella in Panto

2008-05-07T04:31:00.000-07:00

If you are a bright, ambitious actress with eyes on a glittering West End career, then now's your chance to make your mark and to start to live your dream by playing Cinderella at this year’s panto in Basildon.

Towngate Theatre bosses have launched a district-wide talent search for an undiscovered star to take the lead role this Christmas. In the style of hit TV show Any Dream Will Do, one actress will win the opportunity of a lifetime to head up the cast of a professional show.

Paul Brace, Basildon Council’s theatre manager, said: “This is fantastic chance for an unknown actress to become a real theatre star. Panto brings the community together, and we want to celebrate that by casting a local actress in the leading role. We will be scouring the district for stars-in-the-making and giving one of them the chance to play Cinderella.

“This is an exciting opportunity for someone with dazzling talent and personality to perform in front of a live panto audience.”

Auditions are taking place at the Towngate Theatre this month and are open to anyone over the age of 17. They will be put through their paces in singing, acting and dancing before a panel of music and theatre experts will whittle the hopeful 'Cinderella’s' down to one.

Mr Brace added: “The successful actress will be expected to take part in
more than 40 shows, and with rehearsals starting in November, we want someone
who is prepared for a roller-coaster ride.”

Auditions for Cinderella are taking place in the Towngate Theatre on Sunday18 May from 10am. Rehearsals for the production of Cinderella begin Monday 17 November with the performances running from Thursday 4 December 2008 to Sunday 4 January2009.

To audition, turn up on the day, or call the Towngate Theatre on 01268465465 to register. Please bring two songs and sheet music with you to the audition and wear comfortable clothing. Tickets for Cinderella are on sale now. Call the Towngate Theatre box office on 01268 465465.

Photo depicts Simon Fielding who is set to direct Cinderella and star as Muddles.

Mobile Camera Locations

2008-05-07T02:55:00.000-07:00

The locations are provided as a guide. However, this is not a definitive schedule, as Essex Police may make changes for 'operational reasons'.
Wednesday May 7, 2008
Chelmsford
Chigwell
Rayleigh
Canvey
Thursday May 8, 2008
Westcliff
Kelvedon
Harwich
Grays
Friday May 9, 2008
Brentwood
Aveley
Newport
Basildon
Saturday May 10, 2008
Tiptree
Braintree
Billericay
Loughton
Sunday May 11, 2008
Southend
Thundersley
Maldon
South Benfleet

Young Musician of the Year: the Fast Track to a Musical Career

2008-05-06T12:09:00.000-07:00

Kirsten Priddle gave an inspired talk to the Rotary Club of Basildon Concord as Winner of the Young Musician Of the Year for the Basildon District 2007. It's all part of the build up to this year's competition, for each District's local winner progresses to regional level and, if sufficiently talented, can make it to the highly prestigious national level.

As with the BBC Young Musician contest, success can be a fast track to success as a professional musician. However, competition is stiff and the adjudicators are looking for real musicianship that goes beyond proficiency alone.

Last year's event was a first for the Basildon area and organisers are hoping that local young musicians will build on this foundation to show Britain that this area is far from being a culture and talent wilderness.

Of course, exam time means that young people are concentrating on studies. Nevertheless, for those who see music more as a way of life than a hobby, a contest like this is like manna from Heaven:- providing sustenance for their aspirations..

You can download details and entry forms from the link on the front page of this site or pick up the details from the display on the ground floor of the Eastgate Centre in front of Debenhams.

Photo above : Kirsten Priddle with the President of the Rotary Club of Basildon Concord, Syd Thompson.

Below: Kirsten Priddle

Background to Basildon District Young Musician of the Year 2008

by Rotarian Mike Beecher

Calling all young people age 18 or under who play a musical instrument or enjoy singing, or even writing your own music ----

If you're 18 or under and livee, go to school or have music lessons in the Basildon District of Basildon, Wickford and Billericay, then you can be in our competition.

We have trophies, medals and cash prizes worth hundreds of pounds for winners, although everyone in fact will receive an adjudicator's report and get a special Rotary Young Musician certificate on the final Gala night at the Towngate Theatre on July 10th. And the overall winner will go to the Rotary District finals at Chelmsford Cathedral next February. Last year's winner Kirsten Priddle has had a great time performing at community events over the year.

We're in our second year and our big task in the next few weeks is to get the entries in! Last year over 50 entered in just 2 weeks, so this year we are ready to see a lot more entering as we have a little more time.

This is not just another music event, because we want to recognise the talents of our young musicians in the area - everyone will be a winner by having the opportunity to experience competition.

Our singing event is unlike all the other Pop Idol kind of competitions. We judge purely on your singing of a couple of songs - songs from shows are better than pop songs, and songs from ethnic cultures are fine too. There will be separate prizes for girls and boys.

We have other new events in 2008, there is a jrp section for amplified instruments and noisy ones like drum kits - or you can play an orchestral instrument right down to junior school chime bars if you want. So this year we open it up to juniors - there is no lower age limit. Last year we had a 7 yr old, Shiraz Dhuna, who played the piano brilliantly for his age and just loved being on the big stage of the Towngate Theatre. Also all those GCSE music pupils can put their compositions in to be judged and the winning composition will be performed too.

The Towngate Theatre Cafe in Basildon Town Square every Saturday lunchtime is becoming a place where artists young and old pop in to have a chat over a drink or snack and listen to music from local performers. At this time, I am encouraging young musicians who were in last year's contest or entering this year to come along and do a mini performance in front of friends and relations. It's another opportunity to gain experience making music in public and it's all in a good cause for these sessions are creating awareness of the Giraffe Appeal for Basildon Hospital.

The event is being organised by the Rotary Club of Basildon Concord, presenting it for the 2nd year running with support from local clubs in Wickford, Billericay and Basildon.

So all we need is our young musicians entries from instrumentalists to singers and composers age 18 or under! May 15th is the closing date. Get entry forms from Eastgate, Towngate, libraries, sports centres, schools or download at www.gatewayfm.com.

HUMPHREY LYTTLETON 1921 – 2008

2008-05-06T11:17:00.000-07:00

A tribute by David Fenn, presenter of 'Gateway to Jazz' on Gateway FM.

Jazz fans the world over will be greatly saddened by the death of Humphrey Lyttleton. Humph was widely regarded as the father of British jazz. Father figure or not, he was unquestionably one of Britain's most important and beloved jazz musicians, with a voice known to millions through his work as a broadcaster on BBC radio.

He hosted the UK's most successful and longest running jazz programme 'The Sound of jazz', which began in October 1967. He was also compere of the long running 'I'm Sorry, I Haven't a Clue', a brilliantly funny panel game that relied in no small measure on his unique brand of humour. His radio celebrity was such that it makes it easy to overlook the central role he occupied in British jazz.

Lyttelton figuratively towered over the UK jazz scene. Literally too, for he was a tall man. An old Etonian, he had seen war service as an Acting-Captain in the Brigade of Guards, but decided after demob. To become a jazz trumpeter rather than follow in his father's footsdteps to become a master at Eton.

His first concert appearance was on 18th. February 1947 at the Hot Club of London, leading in an ad hoc ensemble. After eight months with George Webb's Dixielanders he left to form his own band and, while performing at the Nice Jazz Festival in 1948, was complimented by Louis Armstrong who called him “the top trumpet man in England”.

During the 1950s a trad boom,which Humph had played no small part in triggering, swept the nation. In 1953 Lyttleton turned his back on revivalist New Orleans jazz in favour of a sleek, modern mainstream style. There was something of an uproar at the time as it was the height of the trad boom. His fanbase became divided between modernists and traditionalists and the music press grappled with the implications for British jazz.

By the mid 50s, if he was not already, Humph certainly became a household name with release of the single 'Bad Penny Blues' that reached number 19 in the 'Top Twenty'. In the 1960s as his career expanded with writing, broadcasting and television work, his band continued to grow, adding a variety of new names and influences. From 1970 he had a productive contract with Black Lion Records. The momentum was maintained into the 1980s and Humph's group made many fine records on his own Calligraph label that displayed a stimulating variety of creative influences.

The turn of the century brought no sign that Humph was slowing down or looking back. In 2003 he was busy touring with his band and singer Stacey Kent.

Humph made a vital contribution to jazz as a communicator. His successive volumes of autobiography were arguably the first well considered reflections from a jazz musician and helped to establish the significance of jazz as an art form and to underline its musical importance.

He was Britain's senior jazz ambassador and always demonstrated an admirably open ear for new developments in the music. As a bandleader he consistently kept an eye out for new young players, offering them a platform to display their developing talents.

His death at the grand old age of 86 leaves us all with a sense of losing an old friend. Humph was a one off who, during his lifetime brought much pleasure to his audiences, whether it was through his music, his writing or his humour.

On a very personal note, his recording of 'Coffee Grinder', a Sidney Bechet composition, is the theme tune for 'Gateway to Jazz', the programme dedicated to jazz on Gateway FM. Thus with every edition, we can together enjoy hearing again one of the greats of jazz.

We'll all miss you Humph --- thanks for the memories.
For more information about Humph and his band, please see http://www.humphreylyttelton.com/about

Silver Acorn for Scout Leader

2008-05-06T10:33:00.000-07:00

When Bradley Cox became a Scout leader with the 4th Canvey Island Scout group 29 years ago, little did he realise how much he would achieve and for how long. Now, in recognition of almost three decades of his service to the Scout Association, he has been presented with a top honour – the Silver Acorn.

A member of Tilbury Neighbourhood Policing Team, Pc Cox has been serving the Scouting movement for longer than he has been with Essex Police, which he joined 27 years ago. He was presented with his Silver Acorn – for more than 20 years of specially distinguished service – at the district’s annual Renewal of Promise ceremony on April 27 by Essex County Commissioner Bob Bye.

Pc Cox said afterwards: “I was very proud to receive the Silver Acorn – it was a complete surprise. I have been with the Scouts for 29 years and it would be very difficult to leave now. It is a hobby but it is also a way of life and it is lots of fun.”

As well as the Silver Acorn, Pc Cox was given the Medal of Merit in 1992 for outstanding service. He became Scout Leader of the troop in the mid 1990s and in recent years he has taken on increased district responsibilities – he is ‘Nights Away’ Camping Advisor for the Castle Point groups and an assessor for the county’s water activities.

Last year, in a Castle Point District Scout Council initiative, Pc Cox was project leader for the Party in the Park gala as part of the Scouting movement’s centenary celebrations. Featuring a concert by Essex Police Band, it enabled a £2,000 cheque to be presented to the Havens Hospice.

Pc Cox has also spearheaded his group’s development, building up a supporters’ network, increasing membership and sourcing fundraising projects, sponsorship and a National Lottery grant. Now, the 4th Canvey Island Sea Scout group has 150 Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers who meet weekly and, in November 2006, Chief Constable Roger Baker was present when the group’s new £400,000 centre was opened – after ten years of fundraising. The group has also re-equipped its boating fleet and become RN96, 4th Canvey – it is in the top five of the 100 Scout groups granted Royal Navy recognition.

Picture shows Pc Bradley Cox, left, receiving his Silver Acorn award from Essex County Commissioner Bob Bye. Picture by Graham Carder

Shed Light on Garden Sheds to Deter Thieves

2008-05-06T10:23:00.000-07:00

This is the time of year for shed and garage owners to beware! Check your garden security because the month of May means creeper burglars could be on the way.

Annual statistics always show a marked increase in shed and garage break-ins at the start of summer. For householders the fine weather means more gardening or outdoor pursuits. But burglars see it is as a time to stock up on items they can quickly sell to raise cash.

Basildon crime reduction officer Mick Armstrong urges householders to ensure that outbuildings are protected with strong padlocks and covered by security lights, saying: "People often refer to the contents of sheds as mainly a lot of old rubbish. But experience has taught us that petty thieves will rummage through your ‘rubbish' for things they can sell locally, on the internet or through boot sales."

He points out that the upset caused by a burglary is often out of all proportion to the monetary loss and stresses that to avoid tempting these thieves you should ensure that shed and garage doors are fitted with good quality padlocks which are difficult to force and also act as a deterrent.

He adds: “Garden buildings also benefit from being covered by security lighting units which turn on whenever they detect movement within the area. These units are an invaluable investment for any garden. Solar lighting units which store energy during the day and turn on from dusk to dawn are also useful for lighting areas where burglars might try lurking.”

Mr Armstrong is also warning householders to lock away bikes, children’s games, tools, garden furniture and any other valuables used in gardens during the day. For more advice on garden security contact your local neighbourhood specialist officer or Mr Armstrong at Basildon police station on 0300 333 4444.

New Pond and Wildlife Garden at Norsey Wood

2008-05-06T10:20:00.000-07:00

New educational facilities are being created at a popular beauty spot in Billericay. More than £7,000 is being spent on a dipping pond and wildlife garden at Norsey Wood nature reserve. The project is being funded with a grant secured by the Norsey Wood Society, supported by Basildon Council. It will see a pond eight metres in diameter and a metre deep dug behind the park’s existing classroom and information centre. A wildlife garden featuring log piles, wildflowers and a compost heap will also be created.

Chris Huggins, a Countryside Ranger for Basildon Council, said: “There will be all sorts of creatures living in the pond from newts and frogs to grass snakes and dragonflies. We hope it offers new learning opportunities for young people, and a new home for wildlife.

Work is underway already and is expected to be completed next month.

New Exercise Bike to Help Patients Recover

2008-05-02T07:56:00.000-07:00

A new exercise bicycle to help patients recover after surgery has been donated to The Essex Cardiothoracic Centre by Hindu Samaj (Basildon District).

£360 for the bicycle was raised at special charity buffet (supported by Moza Indian Restaurant), where 120 members of Hindu Samaj, their families and friends, came together to enjoy good food and music.

Tina Faulkner, General Manager Cardiothoracic Services said: "When patients are recovering in hospital following major heart or lung surgery, it is important that they start to exercise the muscles in their chest as soon as possible. Having an exercise bike based on the ward means that, even when patients are not yet well enough to venture far from their bed, they can start gentle exercise, which can help them to regain some muscle strength and greatly enhance their recovery."

Cops 'Prison' Break Out

2008-05-02T07:33:00.000-07:00

Three teams of Essex Police staff were celebrating last week after escaping from ‘jail’ and getting away as far as Rome, Inveraray and Cambridge, while raising money for charity along the way.

The teams took part in Colchester Charity Jailbreak on April 19 – an event where participants have 24-hours to get as far away as possible without spending a penny of their own money.

Essex Police human resources officer, Claire Walters and NHS human resources officer Stacey Owen ‘escaped’ to Rome after being donated two return flights by travel agents, Colchester Travel, and raised around £500 for the Essex Autistic Society.

Claire said: “We got on an Easyjet flight to Rome Ciampino airport and were kindly donated two transfers from the airport to the Rome train station by one of the air stewardesses. Unfortunately we only had an hour and a half between our arrival and our check in time to return home so we did not make it to any of the famous landmarks – although we did manage to fit in a glass of wine!”

Police community support officers (PCSOs) Clair McWilliams and Red Leeson raised around £400 for Diabetes UK and made it as far as Inveraray, Scotland. The pair managed to ‘blag’ five trains and a bus to get to the Scottish town and spent the night by themselves in a haunted prison, famous for housing spooks and paranormal groups investigating it.

Red said: “The guard showed us around and then locked us in, telling us ‘See you in the morning!’ We had access to the cells, torture room and courtyard and did a little ghost hunt of our own in the dark before settling down for the night in a haunted cell. It was the most uncomfortable night I have ever spent on a cold hard floor and to make matters worse we kept hearing rattling chains and keys and tapping on the windows! I was so scared I couldn’t move! But it was worth every minute – we raised a lot of money for charity and we can’t wait for next year.”

Sarah Faull and Carly Dereka, communication officers, raised money for The Essex Autistic Society and have raised over £500 between them. Final positions will be announced to the teams on May 1 at the prize giving ceremony at the Castle Pub on Colchester High Street.

US Cop Visits Essex Counterparts

2008-05-02T07:24:00.000-07:00

An American police officer is visiting Essex Police this week to explore the differences between the two styles of policing in Essex and Ohio.

Officer Brian Smith, from Columbus, is spending several days with Essex Police following a conversation he had with one of his senior officers where they thought it would be a good idea to get a different perspective on policing. He went on the internet, researched different forces in England and applied online to Essex Police.

Officer Smith said: “I decided to apply to the police in Essex because I wanted to see some real policing and not do the obvious and go to London. I thought the policing in London would be much more tourist based and wouldn’t be a true reflection of English policing. I wanted to go out into more rural areas to see what really goes on in England and to get a feel of what policing is like over here.

"I think one of the biggest differences will be that police officers in America are armed which is much rarer over here.

"The crime rate from my town is also a lot higher than those in Essex and it will be interesting to see what the main differences are. We have a lot of armed robberies and general thefts and I am interested to see what the main crimes are in Essex and how they are dealt with.”

Officer Smith also took the time to meet with Assistant Chief Constable Derek Benson to exchange one of his Ohio Police badges for an Essex Police helmet, and to talk about the two styles of policing.

Successful Road Safety Operation in South Ockendon

2008-05-02T07:19:00.000-07:00

A Thurrock road safety operation has been hailed a success and resulted in a man being remanded in custody charged with motoring offences. The operation was held in South Road, South Ockendon near its junction with West Road on Monday, April 28.

A 30-year-old man from South Ockendon was charged with taking a vehicle without consent, using a vehicle without insurance and driving a vehicle otherwise than in accordance with a licence.

He appeared at Grays magistrates’ court the following day and was remanded in custody to return to the court on May 7. The road safety operation - aimed at curbing speeding, drivers using mobile phones and people not wearing seat belts - was carried out following concerns outlined by members of the South Ockendon community forum at a meeting on April 7.

The operation was organised by Pc Rachel Martin, the neighbourhood specialist officer (NSO) for South Ockendon, who attends the forum’s meetings. The crackdown was planned to run all morning but was cut short after just over an hour when officers were diverted away to an emergency job.

Pc Martin said: “In that short space of time we carried out 19 stops and issued 14 notices for not wearing seat belts, three people were fined for speeding and one was stopped for using a mobile phone while driving. Local residents were very pleased that we were taking action and thanked us for keeping watch on their roads, but the drivers we stopped were not best pleased. Some of them said they did not know they could get a ticket for not wearing seatbelts. Others had a total disregard for their own safety.”

Pc Martin said that the operations will be held frequently in South Road and nearby areas until drivers get the message about safety. Drivers are reminded that not using seat belts can lead to a £30 fine. Driving while using a mobile phone could cost £60 plus three points on a licence while fines and penalty points for speeding depend on the speed recorded.

Free Keep Fit Day for Over 50s

2008-05-02T06:35:00.000-07:00

Tai Chi, Yoga and Salsa are among the activities on offer during a free keep fit day for the over-50s. Basildon Council and Active Plus are holding the event to boost participation in sport and encourage healthy living.

Adults will also be able to try dressmaking, seated exercise, keep fit and yoga. The sessions are taking place at Laindon Day Centre in Aston Road from 9am to 3.30pm on Thursday 15 May. To book a place on one of the activities contact Tracey Davies on 01268 465444.

Tories Retain Grip on Basildon and Secure Thurrock

2008-05-02T04:15:00.000-07:00

BASILDON Conservatives have increased their majority following the local elections that have been such disastrous news for Gordon Brown. Clearly the electorate was more concerned to send a strong message to central government than to rap local Tories overthe knuckles about such issues as the golf course becoming a dumping ground for builders' rubble and closure of Markhams Chase Leisure Centre.

Certainly Mr Brown will have registered the need to be sensitive to public feeling. Perhaps the District Council should recognise that hubris carries dangers --- pride before a fall.

The Tories won the hotly contested Vange ward by 82 votes making Luke MacKenzie won Vange for the Tories to become, at 22, the youngest councillor . Jane Dyer, who had held the ward for Labour broke with her formwer party afew weeks back and stood as an independent. She secured just 72 votes.

The BNP failed to gain a seat despite standing in every ward. However, they secured 15% of the total vote which meant that they did rather better than either the Liberal Democrats or the Greens. It is to be hoped that their success reflects disquiet over levels of immigration rather than a widespread core belief in the views they promulgate.

Speaking after the local election results had been declared at the Towngate Theatre during the early hours of this morning, John Baron said: “This was a great night for us, and our thanks go to the electorate for their support. For the Tories to gain seats when we already have the largest number in the Council’s recent history is no mean achievement.

"The Government’s 10p tax on the poor, its closure of local Post Offices, the attempted forcing of open prisons on to Basildon, and Labour Councillors’ support for the travellers all contributed to Labour’s decline.

“Congratulations to all candidates and their teams, but particularly to Luke MacKenzie who won in Vange and at 22 is now the youngest Basildon Councillor. Everyone worked hard, and there were times yesterday when canvassing teams resembled Dad’s Army on manoeuvre – don’t panic Captain Mainwaring! Luke will now bring the average age down a bit!

“My one concern is the BNP. Although we stopped them breaking through, their share of the vote at around 15% is still too high. Indications suggest that, whilst our share of the vote went up, some of the Labour vote fell away to the BNP. This is worrying. The government’s shambolic record over immigration during the last 10 years is largely to blame.”
The results for all contested wards are as follows:
BILLERICAY EAST
Stuart Sullivan (Con) 1,932: Roger Hatch (Lib Dem) 428: Geoffrey McCarthy (BNP) 220: Patricia Reid (Lab) 206: Susan McCaffery (UKIP) 152.

BILLERICAY WEST
Philip Turner (Con) 2,145: Belinda Jackson (Lib Dem) 332: Wendy Aitken (Lab) 239: Michael Bateman (BNP) 200: Cherry Young (UKIP) 99.

BURSTEAD
Richard Moore (Con) 1,967: Irene Bateman (BNP) 407: Geoffrey Taylor (Lib Dem) 384: Margaret Viney (Lab) 275.

CROUCH
Stuart Allen (Con) 1,311: Carolyn Rossiter (BNP) 251: Anthony Borlase (Lab & Co-op) 218: Jennifer Cole (Lib Dem) 135.

FRYERNS
Paul Kirkman (Lab) 1,013: Jim Devlin (Con) 636: Leonard Heather (BNP) 628: John Lutton (Lib Dem) 250.

LAINDON PARK
Frank Tomlin (Con) 1,020: David Kirkman (Lab) 661: David King (BNP) 387: Jonathan Myall (Lib Dem) 193

LANGDON HILLS
Stephen Hillier (Con) 1,176: William Archibald (Lab & Co-op) 283: Kevin Swaby (BNP) 197: Imelda Clancy (UKIP) 152: Emma Peall (Lib Dem) 130: Annie Humphries (Green) 104.

LEE CHAPEL NORTH
Lynda Gordon (Lab) 972: Mark Coxshall (Con) 604: Jay Slaven (BNP) 358: Stephen Nice (Lib Dem) 160: Ernest Humphries (Green) 126

NETHERMAYNE
Geoff Williams (Lib Dem) 1,247: Kerry Whitaker (Con) 697: Mark Witzer (Lab) 495: Mark Henry (BNP) 459:

PITSEA NORTH WEST
Andrew Baggott (Con) 945: Emma Collins (Lab) 739: Raymond Pearce (BNP) 370:
Terry McBride (UKIP) 266.

PITSEA SOUTH EAST
Ann Blake (Con) 1,255: Richard Llewellyn (Lab) 604: Sidney Chaney (BNP) 383: Vivien Howard (Lib Dem) 171.

ST MARTIN'S
Philip Rackley Lab & Co-op) 513: Gwen Ball (Con) 408: Philip Howell (BNP) 305: Michael Dickinson (Lib Dem) 163.

VANGE
Luke MacKenzie (Con) 590: Santa Bennett (Lab) 508: Rodney Leveridge (BNP) 289: Philip Jenkins (Lib Dem) 104: Jane Dyer (Ind) 72: David Aitken (Ind) 47: Dean Hall (Green) 36.

WICKFORD NORTH
Carole Morris (Con) 1,250: David Harrison (Ind) 974: Anthony Gladwin (BNP) 289: Christopher Wilson (Lab) 230: Michael Woods (Lib Dem) 154.

BURSTEAD
Richard Moore (Con) 1,967: Irene Bateman (BNP) 407: Geoffrey Taylor (Lib Dem) 384: Margaret Viney (Lab) 275.

THURROCK
The Tories have retained control of fThurrock Council having secured ten of the eighteen wards involved. Labour took six and the BNP, having fielded candidates in all wards, gained one at Tilbury Riverside. Barry Palmer, The East Tilbury independent, held his seat.

There are now 24 tory councillors, 22 for labour, 2 independents and one for the BNP.

Emma Colgate (BNP), celebrating her victory, said; "The other councillors say they don't want to work with me, well I don't want to work with them." She added: "This vote is also a message to the Labour government."