Local News
“RUBBISH” SAVES LIVES
RECYCLING DRIVE KEEPS AIR AMBULANCE AIRBORNE
Recycling Officers at Gosport Borough
Council have roped in fellow Council workers
to raise funds for the Hampshire & Isle of
Wight air ambulance.
Funds raised from recycling are one of the main
sources of income for the air ambulance , helping to
keep it running 2 days a week. In just one week,
Council staff filled 30 bags with their unwanted
clothes, shoes, textiles, old mobile phones and ink
cartridges and handed them over to ‘Bag it Up Ltd’,
the company that works in partnership with the
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance Charity.
”Good quality clothing items are sold on to second-
worldwide,” said ‘Bag It Up’ spokeswoman, Naomi
Jaques. “All the 'end of life' garments and textiles can
be turned into industrial wipers and cloths, mattress
filling and insulation, which not only reduces the
amount of rubbish sent to landfill, but it also means
that we can pay money to the Hampshire & Isle of
Wight Air Ambulance Service to help it continue its
life-saving work.”
Gosport Council officers are now urging the
public to back their efforts and join the drive to
support the air ambulance.
“If you have just got a new phone and no longer
need your old one then you can pick up a pre paid envelope from the Town Hall or download an
address label from Bag It Up's website,” said a spokeswoman.
For more information, and to find out how you can help, see www.bagitup.org.uk or
www.hampshireandiowairambulance.org.uk.
Council have roped in fellow Council workers
to raise funds for the Hampshire & Isle of
Wight air ambulance.
Funds raised from recycling are one of the main
sources of income for the air ambulance , helping to
keep it running 2 days a week. In just one week,
Council staff filled 30 bags with their unwanted
clothes, shoes, textiles, old mobile phones and ink
cartridges and handed them over to ‘Bag it Up Ltd’,
the company that works in partnership with the
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance Charity.
”Good quality clothing items are sold on to second-
worldwide,” said ‘Bag It Up’ spokeswoman, Naomi
Jaques. “All the 'end of life' garments and textiles can
be turned into industrial wipers and cloths, mattress
filling and insulation, which not only reduces the
amount of rubbish sent to landfill, but it also means
that we can pay money to the Hampshire & Isle of
Wight Air Ambulance Service to help it continue its
life-
Gosport Council officers are now urging the
public to back their efforts and join the drive to
support the air ambulance.
“If you have just got a new phone and no longer
need your old one then you can pick up a pre paid envelope from the Town Hall or download an
address label from Bag It Up's website,” said a spokeswoman.
For more information, and to find out how you can help, see www.bagitup.org.uk or
www.hampshireandiowairambulance.org.uk.
The Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance
Free swimming is being introduced
at the Holbrook Recreation Centre
from Wednesday 1 April. The
scheme has been set up by
Gosport Council to encourage
healthier lifestyles and is targeted
at younger and older age groups.
“If being able to swim for free gets
them away from the TV and
exercising regularly, it has to be
beneficial to the health and well
being of local children,”said a
Council spokesman.
at the Holbrook Recreation Centre
from Wednesday 1 April. The
scheme has been set up by
Gosport Council to encourage
healthier lifestyles and is targeted
at younger and older age groups.
“If being able to swim for free gets
them away from the TV and
exercising regularly, it has to be
beneficial to the health and well
being of local children,”said a
Council spokesman.
Gosport BMXers aim for Olympic glory as new track opens
GOSPORT NEWS SAYS:
The new BMX track in Gosport is
a project we can all be justifiably
proud of. It is an investment
(provided at no cost to local
taxpayers) in local youngsters –
so often driven by boredom to
commit acts of anti-social
behaviour - that will bring them
many hours of safe thrills.
And what a bonus if it could help
bring Olympic glory to Gosport for
the first time since Roger Black
won silver in Atlanta in 1996.
Ayesha McClelland is a
remarkable young woman who
deserves our support. Hats off to
Gosport Borough Council who
helped her buy the equipment she
needs to develop her potential.
Work is about to get underway
on the ambitious £140 million
Plan to redevelop the Rowner
estate, said to be the UK’s
largest regeneration project.
The scheme, described by
Council chiefs as "real hope
of a fresh start for Rowner",
proposes to build 700 new
homes, including terraced
houses and a modern
10-storey apartment block.
There will be a dedicated area
for the Rowner Carnival plus a
supermarket and other shops,
new green spaces, and a tree-
middle of the estate. Traffic-
streets safe for children will
also be implemented.
Work is due to start on the
project this summer.
Building work will start around
Howe Road, and the project is
expected to be complete in
2016.
on the ambitious £140 million
Plan to redevelop the Rowner
estate, said to be the UK’s
largest regeneration project.
The scheme, described by
Council chiefs as "real hope
of a fresh start for Rowner",
proposes to build 700 new
homes, including terraced
houses and a modern
10-
There will be a dedicated area
for the Rowner Carnival plus a
supermarket and other shops,
new green spaces, and a tree-
middle of the estate. Traffic-
streets safe for children will
also be implemented.
Work is due to start on the
project this summer.
Building work will start around
Howe Road, and the project is
expected to be complete in
2016.
Plans for the scheme can be
seen on Gosport
Council's website.
It follows last year's
consultation programme
with residents.
The ambitious scheme
marks a remarkable
turnaround in fortunes for
what was once described
as one of the worst estates
in Britain.
Originally built by the
Ministry of Defence for
Navy personnel and their
families in the 1950s, it was
later sold off to private
owners.
seen on Gosport
Council's website.
It follows last year's
consultation programme
with residents.
The ambitious scheme
marks a remarkable
turnaround in fortunes for
what was once described
as one of the worst estates
in Britain.
Originally built by the
Ministry of Defence for
Navy personnel and their
families in the 1950s, it was
later sold off to private
owners.
Local people who opened a savings account at a
community event will get an extra £20 – thanks to an
innovative scheme which gives the ill-gotten gains of
loan sharks to people in need.
In the first case of its kind, some of the £35,000 made
by Gosport crook Richard Blair in an illegal scam will
be given straight back to needy families. Blair charged
an extortionate 30 per cent interest per week on loans.
Police eventually caught up with him and found his loot
stashed under floorboards. The cash was confiscated
and will be given to people who opened a savings
account with the Halifax or Hampshire Credit Union at
a special event for Rowner families. Anyone who
keeps their account for a year will get the £20 bonus
out of Blair's proceeds.
Gosport Borough Council leader Dave Smith said:
“In the current climate people are becoming
desperate and are falling victim to these leeches,
who are destroying lives.
“So to use a loan shark’s illegal gains for the
benefit of the community and to help people who
are experiencing problems is fantastic news.”
Blair was given eight months’ jail suspended for
two years, plus community service, at Portsmouth
Crown Court.
two years, plus community service, at Portsmouth
Crown Court.
Council leader
Dave Smith
(left) said loan
sharks were
“leeches”
Dave Smith
(left) said loan
sharks were
“leeches”
JUSTICE!
Loan shark’s cash given
away in 'Robin Hood' scheme
ABOVE: Errol Flynn
plays Robin Hood
plays Robin Hood
FLY-TIPPER GUILTY
Gosport Council are celebrating after another fly-tipper was found guilty and convicted of fly-tipping.
David John William Brown, of Alecto Road, Gosport, appeared at Portsmouth Magistrates Court on
12 February) charged with breaking the Protection Act 1990.He was alleged to have dumped into a
residential garden in Cleveland Road, Gosport,last March. Brown received a 12 month conditional
discharge and was ordered to pay £1,000 towards the Council's legal and investigation costs.
The conviction is the latest in a series of successful prosecutions brought by Gosport Borough
Council. "We as an authority will not put up with this sort of behaviour and will do our utmost to bring
to Court those who show such total disregard for our town,”said Deputy Council Leader Peter
Chegwyn.
Council officers have set up a hotline to report incidents
of flytipping in the borough. “If you witness any incidents
of fly-tipping in Gosport, please jot down details of any
vehicles or descriptions and call Streetscene on
FREEPHONE 08000 198598,” said a spokeswoman.
Gosport Council are celebrating after another fly-
David John William Brown, of Alecto Road, Gosport, appeared at Portsmouth Magistrates Court on
12 February) charged with breaking the Protection Act 1990.He was alleged to have dumped into a
residential garden in Cleveland Road, Gosport,last March. Brown received a 12 month conditional
discharge and was ordered to pay £1,000 towards the Council's legal and investigation costs.
The conviction is the latest in a series of successful prosecutions brought by Gosport Borough
Council. "We as an authority will not put up with this sort of behaviour and will do our utmost to bring
to Court those who show such total disregard for our town,”said Deputy Council Leader Peter
Chegwyn.
Council officers have set up a hotline to report incidents
of flytipping in the borough. “If you witness any incidents
of fly-
FREEPHONE 08000 198598,” said a spokeswoman.
Plans for a state-of-the-art replacement to the ageing Holbrook Leisure Centre took a step nearer
this week after detailed proposals were given the green light by a group of experts.
The Holbrook Working Group has been reviewing the viability of plans submitted for the new centre,
and has now agreed to shortlist proposals from four developers.
The new centre must meet Gosport Council's requirements, which include a six-lane swimming pool,
teaching pool, 200 seater spectator area, 4 court Sports Hall, fitness suite with up to 100 stations
and health suite with sauna and steam room. The new centre will also have a creche, soft play area
and floodlit all-weather pitch.
The Holbrook Working Group has been reviewing the viability of plans submitted for the new centre,
and has now agreed to shortlist proposals from four developers.
The new centre must meet Gosport Council's requirements, which include a six-
and health suite with sauna and steam room. The new centre will also have a creche, soft play area
and floodlit all-
“We are also looking for a hotel, a shop and restaurant to be included as part of the project,” added
local Councillor Peter Chegwyn.
It is expected that a decision on the best bid will be made later in the year.
It is expected that a decision on the best bid will be made later in the year.
LEISURE PLANS
GET GO-AHEAD
GET GO-
MIRACLE BABY MUM
IN FUNDRAISING BID
IN FUNDRAISING BID
Seven-month old Baileigh recovering in hospital last December
Fears over plans to force homeowners to sell gardens
RAPID BUS LINK
PROTESTS GROW
PROTESTS GROW
Hampshire County Council plans to build a rapid bus link
along the former Gosport-Fareham train route are prompting
anger among local residents. Conservative-run Hampshire
County Council leaders admitted they may force some
people to sell part of their gardens in order to build the new
road link.
Councillor Mel Kendal, head of transport at Hampshire
County Council, said: 2There are some verges of land we
would need for the scheme. It really isn't unusual to take
such steps with this sort of scheme.”
There are also worries that the £20m scheme could effect local wildlife living along the route.
Protests are being organised by a new local group calling itself the “Bus Rapid Transport Action
Group” outside the Hoeford Bus Depot in Gosport.
Under the plan, the old railway from Redlands Lane, Fareham, to Tichborne Way, Gosport, would
be turned into a high-speed link with regular bus stops along the way. To help reduce congestion
on the A32.
County council contractors have already been clearing the old railway line, although it is not yet
certain whether the government will approve funding for the scheme. Local residents say that
local populations of badgers and bats that have occupied the disused railway line have been
adversely affected”.
along the former Gosport-
people to sell part of their gardens in order to build the new
road link.
Councillor Mel Kendal, head of transport at Hampshire
County Council, said: 2There are some verges of land we
would need for the scheme. It really isn't unusual to take
such steps with this sort of scheme.”
There are also worries that the £20m scheme could effect local wildlife living along the route.
Protests are being organised by a new local group calling itself the “Bus Rapid Transport Action
Group” outside the Hoeford Bus Depot in Gosport.
Under the plan, the old railway from Redlands Lane, Fareham, to Tichborne Way, Gosport, would
be turned into a high-
County council contractors have already been clearing the old railway line, although it is not yet
certain whether the government will approve funding for the scheme. Local residents say that
local populations of badgers and bats that have occupied the disused railway line have been
adversely affected”.
Gosport MP criticised for failing to represent constituents
MP ATTACKS INQUIRY
ON HOSPITAL DEATHS
ON HOSPITAL DEATHS
Gosport MP Peter Viggers has criticised the
decision to hold a coroner’s inquiry into 10 of an
original 92 suspicious deaths at the Gosport War
Memorial Hospital in the late 1990’s. He said that as
the police had decided no action was required, the
matter should be “allowed to rest”.
However, relatives of those who died at the hospital have criticised their local MP for failing to
represent his constituents. Gillian Mackenzie's 91-year-old mother went into Gosport War
Memorial Hospital in 1998 for four weeks' rehabilitation following a hip operation. She died 10
days later. Her daughter claims her death was due to medical negligence.
She then spent a year trying to persuade Peter Viggers and her own constituency MP,
Eastbourne’s Nigel Waterson, to take up her case against the hospital where her mother died.
Mrs Mackenzie said: "They have just been dismissive, totally dismissive. They should at least
take a look at the papers. Mr Viggers should take an interest in matters involving his own
constituency." She made an official complaint against Viggers to the Conservative Party.
Mrs Mackenzie's mother, Gladys Richards, was transferred to the hospital on 11 August, 1998,
12 days after a hip operation. Mrs Mackenzie alleges she was given incorrect medicine and care.
She turned to the local police. After two investigations the matter was sent to the Crown
Prosecution Service, which found there was insufficient evidence.
The new inquiry will look at the cases of 10 elderly patients at the Gosport War Memorial Hospital
who died unexpectedly after being given high doses of sedatives and painkillers. The Justice
Secretary Jack Straw granted the hearing last year. Relatives of 92 patients who died at the
community hospital have fought for the matter to be properly investigated, believing their relatives’
deaths were never properly explained.
John White, a solicitor from Blake Lapthorn, the firm representing four of the ten families, said:
“The allegations in this case are of the most serious kind. Several investigations have taken place
but none has managed to get a resolution.”
The deaths have already been the subject of a criminal investigation, dubbed Operation
Rochester, which concluded that there was not enough evidence to charge anyone over the
Deaths.
However, Government inspectors criticised the hospital in 2002 for its excessive use of
pain-relieving and sedative drugs. Inspectors found there was no effective monitoring of the
levels of prescription medicines and that some patients were prescribed strong pain relief before
being properly assessed. Dr Jane Barton, the only doctor to be investigated in relation to the case,
was ordered to stop prescribing morphine last July. Dr Barton, who will give evidence at the
inquests, will be the subject of a fitness to practice hearing later this year.
The inquests, listed together and scheduled to last six weeks, will be heard by the north east
Hampshire coroner Andrew Bradley, sitting with a jury, at Portsmouth Combined Court. Peter
Walsh, chief executive of Action against Medical Accidents, said: “”The General Medical Council
should be more proactive in protecting patients than protecting doctors. It is a pity there is not a
public inquiry and that the authorities are not being as open as they might be, which has added
to the families’ hurt and suspicions.
Wonder-drug could give him extra years with young family
ARMY DAD’S FIGHT
FOR CANCER DRUG
FOR CANCER DRUG
DOTING DAD: Army sergeant Ian with 3-year old son Jaxson
A Lee-on-Solent dad with
terminal cancer is raising
money to buy a life-prolonging
drug that could give him
another 3 years of life with his
young family.
Ian O'Keefe, an army sergeant
serving at HMS Sultan, is
organising a marathon walk to
pay for the drug because it is
not on the NHS' approved list
– in spite of trials which show
it can dramatically extend the
lifespan of cancer sufferers.
O'Keefe was diagnosed with a
brain tumour last year after a
chance check-up on his
eyesight. He had an emergency
operation to remove the tumour,
but was then told he had only
months to live. He has now
won the backing of Gosport
Council leader Dave Smith,
who is organising an evening
of entertainment at the
Thorngate Halls. The venue
and performers have all agreed
to donate their services for free.
“My youngest son, Jaxson, is too young to really realise what is going on, whilst Jordan, 14, keeps
himself to himself and has had counselling about it,” says O'Keefe. “But my daughter Georgia, 8, is
having a hard time with it. I've also got another boy, Darren, from a previous marriage.
“A 6-month course of the Avastin treatment costs £15,000. All I want is to be able to have as much
time as I can with them,” he added.
He is now training hard for the marathon walk, which will take place starting Saturday March 14. The
evening of entertainment at Thorngate Halls is on Friday April 10.
Dave Smith, Gosport Council leader, said he hoped to raise £3,000 from the event at Thorngate
Halls. “He's got a young family and has been out there working for our country. I think it's disgusting
that he can't get this service on the NHS. He's part of our community and I will do everything that I
possibly can to try and help him.
“'I'll do whatever I can and I just hope it goes some way towards helping him get the treatment he so
desperately needs,” he added.
For more information, or to sponsor or donate prizes, call Thorngate Halls on (023) 9251 0012.
To contact Ian and find out how you can help, you can email him at beef7822@hotmail.com or call him
on 07929 672412.
You can also make a donation at any Abbey National branch to the following account:
ACCOUNT NUMBER: 24480347
SORT CODE: 090127
see also SPECIAL FEATURE: IAN O'KEEFE talks about why he is
determined to live as long as he can
money to buy a life-
another 3 years of life with his
young family.
Ian O'Keefe, an army sergeant
serving at HMS Sultan, is
organising a marathon walk to
pay for the drug because it is
not on the NHS' approved list
– in spite of trials which show
it can dramatically extend the
lifespan of cancer sufferers.
O'Keefe was diagnosed with a
brain tumour last year after a
chance check-
operation to remove the tumour,
but was then told he had only
months to live. He has now
won the backing of Gosport
Council leader Dave Smith,
who is organising an evening
of entertainment at the
Thorngate Halls. The venue
and performers have all agreed
to donate their services for free.
“My youngest son, Jaxson, is too young to really realise what is going on, whilst Jordan, 14, keeps
himself to himself and has had counselling about it,” says O'Keefe. “But my daughter Georgia, 8, is
having a hard time with it. I've also got another boy, Darren, from a previous marriage.
“A 6-
He is now training hard for the marathon walk, which will take place starting Saturday March 14. The
evening of entertainment at Thorngate Halls is on Friday April 10.
Dave Smith, Gosport Council leader, said he hoped to raise £3,000 from the event at Thorngate
Halls. “He's got a young family and has been out there working for our country. I think it's disgusting
that he can't get this service on the NHS. He's part of our community and I will do everything that I
possibly can to try and help him.
“'I'll do whatever I can and I just hope it goes some way towards helping him get the treatment he so
desperately needs,” he added.
For more information, or to sponsor or donate prizes, call Thorngate Halls on (023) 9251 0012.
To contact Ian and find out how you can help, you can email him at beef7822@hotmail.com or call him
on 07929 672412.
You can also make a donation at any Abbey National branch to the following account:
ACCOUNT NUMBER: 24480347
SORT CODE: 090127
see also SPECIAL FEATURE: IAN O'KEEFE talks about why he is
determined to live as long as he can
Events aim to raise money and awareness about meningitis
Hundreds of planned homes could make traffic worse
COUNCILLORS DEMAND
JOBS FOR DAEDALUS
JOBS FOR DAEDALUS
Gosport councillors have told the region’s development
agency that they want new employment – not housing – on
the former airfield at Daedalus site in Lee-on-the-Solent.
The South East England Development Agency has published
plans for up to 475 new homes on the site – 275 more than the
maximum number allocated for the area by the local council. But
Councillors echoed local concerns that too many new homes could
increase traffic on Gosport’s congested roads.
Councillors are also worried that proposals for new stores could kill off shops on Lee’s popular High
Street.
Lib Dem councillor Peter Chegwyn said: 'Lee has survived remarkably well and if you put a lot of
retail on this site – retail which is the same as that which is already in Lee and within walking
distance – it could have a devastating effect which should be avoided at all costs.'
Too see the plans and comment on them for yourself, visit www.daedalus-seeda.co.uk
agency that they want new employment – not housing – on
the former airfield at Daedalus site in Lee-
The South East England Development Agency has published
maximum number allocated for the area by the local council. But
Councillors echoed local concerns that too many new homes could
increase traffic on Gosport’s congested roads.
Councillors are also worried that proposals for new stores could kill off shops on Lee’s popular High
Street.
Lib Dem councillor Peter Chegwyn said: 'Lee has survived remarkably well and if you put a lot of
retail on this site – retail which is the same as that which is already in Lee and within walking
distance – it could have a devastating effect which should be avoided at all costs.'
Too see the plans and comment on them for yourself, visit www.daedalus-
PARENT FURY
OVER SCHOOL
DINNER HIKE
Hampshire County Council are increasing the price of school dinners by over 5% - almost twice the rate of
inflation – from April.
The hike means that the cost of eating a cooked meal at school has soared by 50p since 2005,
when the charge was just £1.50 a meal. A parent with 2 children who eat school dinners will now
have to pay almost £800 a year.
“I don't understand how the County Council can just keep putting the cost up again and again,” said one
Gomer parent. “They must be completely out of touch to think parents can just absorb the cost a time like
this.” In neighbouring Portsmouth, meanwhile, the cost of school dinners remains unchanged at £1.70.
Ken Thornber, leader of Tory-run Hants
County Council, defended the rise
Conservatives under fire for 'wasting police time'
Cllr Peter Chegwyn is demanding that
Tories pay back cost of “politically-
Tories pay back cost of “politically-
Around 200 police jobs are to be lost as part of a cost-cutting drive by Hampshire Police.
One hundred non-operational police officer posts and 100 staff jobs are expected to be axed by the
end of the year, and redundancies may be on the cards. Around £9 million will be saved in the move.
"I would like to reassure everyone in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight that our priority remains your
safety," said Chief Constable Alex Marshall.
However Gosport Council's Deputy Leader accused local Tories of wasting police time in politically-
Peter Chegwyn's claims follow a series of complaints made by Gosport Conservatives into
opponents' election leaflets last year which police were obliged to investigate but where the Crown
Prosecution Service concluded no charges should be brought.
"Our over-worked police force do a fantastic job in Gosport but they are already stretched to the limit
and we can't afford any more cuts to the police budget in this area. It's criminal that the Government
doesn't give our police the funding they need to combat crime and catch criminals.
"At a time when the public want to see the police out on the streets catching criminals it beggars
belief that Gosport Conservatives want the police to spend hundreds of hours investigating politically-
The Liberal Democrats are now demanding that the Conservatives meet the cost of the police
investigation, and apologise for wasting police time and money.
"If the Conservatives don't like what is said about them in election leaflets then they should ask the
electorate to pass judgement on them through the ballot box. They should not expect the police to do
their dirty work for them and they should not waste police time and money on politically-motivated
complaints."
Gosport Conservatives have also made a number of complaints to the Standards Board for Local
Government, but no charges have ever been brought against any Liberal Democrat, Labour, Green
Party or Independent councillor or party worker.
"I suspect most members of the public will be horrified to learn just how much police time and public
money has been wasted by the Conservative Party on pursuing spurious and personally spiteful
political complaints.," added Councillor Chegwyn. "Our hard-pressed police force should be allowed
to get on with their real job of policing our streets instead of having to waste time and money
investigating childish complaints from the Conservative Party that always end up with no charges
being brought."
One hundred non-
"I would like to reassure everyone in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight that our priority remains your
safety," said Chief Constable Alex Marshall.
However Gosport Council's Deputy Leader accused local Tories of wasting police time in politically-
Peter Chegwyn's claims follow a series of complaints made by Gosport Conservatives into
opponents' election leaflets last year which police were obliged to investigate but where the Crown
Prosecution Service concluded no charges should be brought.
"Our over-
doesn't give our police the funding they need to combat crime and catch criminals.
"At a time when the public want to see the police out on the streets catching criminals it beggars
belief that Gosport Conservatives want the police to spend hundreds of hours investigating politically-
The Liberal Democrats are now demanding that the Conservatives meet the cost of the police
investigation, and apologise for wasting police time and money.
"If the Conservatives don't like what is said about them in election leaflets then they should ask the
electorate to pass judgement on them through the ballot box. They should not expect the police to do
their dirty work for them and they should not waste police time and money on politically-
Gosport Conservatives have also made a number of complaints to the Standards Board for Local
Government, but no charges have ever been brought against any Liberal Democrat, Labour, Green
Party or Independent councillor or party worker.
"I suspect most members of the public will be horrified to learn just how much police time and public
money has been wasted by the Conservative Party on pursuing spurious and personally spiteful
political complaints.," added Councillor Chegwyn. "Our hard-
investigating childish complaints from the Conservative Party that always end up with no charges
being brought."
Council warning on arson attacks
Following the recent spate of arson attacks, Gosport Borough Council are requesting that
people don’t leave their bins out on the pavements.
There have been a number of arson attacks in recent weeks, many of them started in recycling
and household waste bins. Some have spread to adjacent buildings including a house.
Following the recent spate of arson attacks, Gosport Borough Council are requesting that
people don’t leave their bins out on the pavements.
There have been a number of arson attacks in recent weeks, many of them started in recycling
and household waste bins. Some have spread to adjacent buildings including a house.
Ten local charities and community groups have received grants from Gosport Council to help them
continue their good work.
They include the Nautical Archaeology Society is running a heritage initiative centred on Forton Lake,
which has included volunteers uncovering the many wrecks left rotting along the shoreline. The
Saturday Venture Association, now known as Disability Awareness, helps disabled and
disadvantaged young people fulfiul their potential and fnd employment, and was another winner. St
John’s Primary School received a grant to help pay for the cost of celebreations of its centenary. The
7th Gosport Scout Group also won help for new equipment.
Other organisations to have been awarded grants include the Gosport Discovery Centre to help
support activites around the hugely successful eBig Day Outf event. Hardway District Guiding is
based at GADSAD Hall Elson, where their 126 members, made up of Rainbows, Brownies and
Guides, meet weekly. The youngsters, all aged under 18, enjoy canoeing, camping, climbing and
games as well as undertaking more general work and challenges to gain efficiency badges. They
received a grant to help with vital storage equipment.
Another winner was the Let Us Play Scheme (LUPS), an initiative which provides play schemes
during the school holidays, for children aged 2 to 19 and who suffer from profound disabilities. The
group were applying for a grant to help fund a unique audiovisual interactive lighting system which,
stimulates and entertains. Felicia Park, the Urban Community Farm was given a grant to help meet
the rising cost of food and medical care for its animals, whilst the Lee Singers Choral Society was
given help towards a special concert to mark their 50th Anniversary. The Thorngate Pantomime &
Variety Company was given a grant to help them provide affordable theatre events for young people.
continue their good work.
They include the Nautical Archaeology Society is running a heritage initiative centred on Forton Lake,
which has included volunteers uncovering the many wrecks left rotting along the shoreline. The
Saturday Venture Association, now known as Disability Awareness, helps disabled and
disadvantaged young people fulfiul their potential and fnd employment, and was another winner. St
John’s Primary School received a grant to help pay for the cost of celebreations of its centenary. The
7th Gosport Scout Group also won help for new equipment.
Other organisations to have been awarded grants include the Gosport Discovery Centre to help
support activites around the hugely successful eBig Day Outf event. Hardway District Guiding is
based at GADSAD Hall Elson, where their 126 members, made up of Rainbows, Brownies and
Guides, meet weekly. The youngsters, all aged under 18, enjoy canoeing, camping, climbing and
games as well as undertaking more general work and challenges to gain efficiency badges. They
received a grant to help with vital storage equipment.
Another winner was the Let Us Play Scheme (LUPS), an initiative which provides play schemes
during the school holidays, for children aged 2 to 19 and who suffer from profound disabilities. The
group were applying for a grant to help fund a unique audiovisual interactive lighting system which,
stimulates and entertains. Felicia Park, the Urban Community Farm was given a grant to help meet
the rising cost of food and medical care for its animals, whilst the Lee Singers Choral Society was
given help towards a special concert to mark their 50th Anniversary. The Thorngate Pantomime &
Variety Company was given a grant to help them provide affordable theatre events for young people.
REGISTER FOR FREE E-NEWSLETTER
POLICE AND ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS
CRACK DOWN ON CRIME
Enforcement Officers from Gosport Borough Council are working alongside officers from
Hampshire Constabulary in a joint operation to clamp down on illegal drivers and fly-tippers.
The task force operated near to Brockhurst Roundabout where, by using Automatic Number Plate
Recognition, they were able to pull over a number of vehicles suspected of having no tax or
insurance. As part of the same operation, members of the Council’s Enforcement team were able
to request the Police to pull over vehicles suspected of having rubbish onboard destined for illegal
dumping.
“These days for a business to be able to tip waste they must have a waste carrier’s license,” said
Cllr Peter Chegwyn, Chairman of the Community & Environment Board at Gosport Borough
Council. “Sadly many don’t have one and at the end of a job or at the end of the week, they just find
a quiet road, field or back alleyway, pull up open the back and illegally tip out the waste.”
Items dumped in various locations around the Borough have included baths, toilets, kitchen units,
sinks, windows, door frames and builder’s rubble, to sofas, mattresses, sewing machines and
other household rubbish. It can cost the council – and council taxpayers - thousands of pounds to
clear up.
Enforcement Officers issued Fixed Penalty Notices of £300 to two drivers for carrying waste who
were unable to show a license.
CRACK DOWN ON CRIME
Enforcement Officers from Gosport Borough Council are working alongside officers from
Hampshire Constabulary in a joint operation to clamp down on illegal drivers and fly-
The task force operated near to Brockhurst Roundabout where, by using Automatic Number Plate
Recognition, they were able to pull over a number of vehicles suspected of having no tax or
insurance. As part of the same operation, members of the Council’s Enforcement team were able
to request the Police to pull over vehicles suspected of having rubbish onboard destined for illegal
dumping.
“These days for a business to be able to tip waste they must have a waste carrier’s license,” said
Cllr Peter Chegwyn, Chairman of the Community & Environment Board at Gosport Borough
Council. “Sadly many don’t have one and at the end of a job or at the end of the week, they just find
a quiet road, field or back alleyway, pull up open the back and illegally tip out the waste.”
Items dumped in various locations around the Borough have included baths, toilets, kitchen units,
sinks, windows, door frames and builder’s rubble, to sofas, mattresses, sewing machines and
other household rubbish. It can cost the council – and council taxpayers -
Enforcement Officers issued Fixed Penalty Notices of £300 to two drivers for carrying waste who
were unable to show a license.
CAMPAIGNS
“....some £18,000 came from Peter Viggers our MP who took
advantage of the governments generosity...” Gosport Conservative Accounts
advantage of the governments generosity...” Gosport Conservative Accounts
Peter Viggers, MP
The local Conservative Party has been caught claiming THOUSANDS OF POUNDS from
the taxpayer...to REDECORATE THEIR OFFICES.
The revelations follow the recent furore over politicians' claims for expenses and
allowances.
In their annual accounts – seen by Gosport News – the party boasts of “modernising” the interiors of
the offices on Stoke Road..and thanks local Tory MP Peter Viggers for taking “advantage” of
Parliament’s generous allowances system.
The damning report reveals how local Tories splashed out on “a new open plan look, central heating,
new windows, redecoration, new carpets and new, modern office furniture.”
The report then goes on to admit: “All this cost a great deal of money – the (Conservative)
Association paid some of the cost and some £18000 came from Peter Viggers our MP who
took advantage of the governments generosity to get some of this as a grant.”
The shocking revelations have prompted fury from local residents, who demanded the Conservatives
paid the money back to taxpayers. “At a time when everyone is having to tighten their belt, it’s
outrageous that the Conservatives are deliberately helping themselves at the trough,” fumed one
Gosport woman.
“It is like they are laughing at ordinary people,” she added. “It’s not the Government’s generosity
they’re taking advantage of. It’s the taxpayers. They should give the money back.”
the taxpayer...to REDECORATE THEIR OFFICES.
The revelations follow the recent furore over politicians' claims for expenses and
allowances.
In their annual accounts – seen by Gosport News – the party boasts of “modernising” the interiors of
the offices on Stoke Road..and thanks local Tory MP Peter Viggers for taking “advantage” of
Parliament’s generous allowances system.
The damning report reveals how local Tories splashed out on “a new open plan look, central heating,
new windows, redecoration, new carpets and new, modern office furniture.”
The report then goes on to admit: “All this cost a great deal of money – the (Conservative)
Association paid some of the cost and some £18000 came from Peter Viggers our MP who
took advantage of the governments generosity to get some of this as a grant.”
The shocking revelations have prompted fury from local residents, who demanded the Conservatives
paid the money back to taxpayers. “At a time when everyone is having to tighten their belt, it’s
outrageous that the Conservatives are deliberately helping themselves at the trough,” fumed one
Gosport woman.
“It is like they are laughing at ordinary people,” she added. “It’s not the Government’s generosity
they’re taking advantage of. It’s the taxpayers. They should give the money back.”
“It is like they
are laughing at
ordinary people”
are laughing at
ordinary people”
CREDIT CRUNCH?
WHAT CREDIT CRUNCH?
WHAT CREDIT CRUNCH?
Conservative Councillor
Derek Kimber
Derek Kimber
Gosport's Conservative Mayor Derek Kimber (right) has ordered a
brand new £30,000 car – and passed the bill to the taxpayer.
The Chrysler limousine will be used for Councillor Kimber's “official duties”
as Mayor of Gosport.
The move has been widely criticised by residents. At the Forresters Arms
pub on Ann's Hill Road, locals were seething.
“I can't believe it,” said one. “Just how out of touch can he be? Doesn't he
realise how hard it is for most people right now? It's just mind-boggling.”
brand new £30,000 car – and passed the bill to the taxpayer.
The Chrysler limousine will be used for Councillor Kimber's “official duties”
as Mayor of Gosport.
The move has been widely criticised by residents. At the Forresters Arms
pub on Ann's Hill Road, locals were seething.
“I can't believe it,” said one. “Just how out of touch can he be? Doesn't he
realise how hard it is for most people right now? It's just mind-