Basingstoke Obs ‘Thursday, January 19 - Wednesday, January 25, 2017 FREE INSIDE WEEKEND ‘Now with even news & entertainment rver To advertise cll Basingstoke Observer on 01256 952180 Council considering fortnightly bin 1! NEED A TAXI? CALL ALPHA TAXIS| 101256 844 444) Page 7 collections Want to own Basingstoke's | football club? By Christian Wilson A FRENETIC year for Basingstoke’s football club has taken another unex- pected step through the unveiling of plans to make it community owned. If successful the landmark change would see the creation of a support- ers’ trust to run Basingstoke Town FC (BTFC) when current owner Rafi Razak leaves at the end of May. The Interim Management Group (IMG) set up as a result to weigh up the club’s future options met for the first time last week, where it was decided that community own- ership may be the best move forward. ‘The IMG will launch a campaign at the start of February to encour- age support from the people of Basingstoke, with club CEO, David Knight, believing the move would “benefit the whole community”. He said: “Iam very pleasedwehave taken this very positive deci- sion. Community ownership will allow us to determine our own future for the Jongrun, and our campaign starting in February will workhard to reach every partofour community, and get as many people as possible involved. “The eampaign will explain how com- munity ownership works, and how eve- ryone in Basingstoke, and supporters from further afield, can get involved in the exciting prospect of being one of the future owners of BTFC.” The decision by Mr Razzak to end his 25-year association with the club in November came in the aftermath of plans to build a new 5,000-seater stadium, in Eastrop, being blocked by the borough council last January. After insisting that the current sta- dium, in Western Way, was “no longer suitable without significant changes”, BTFC then elected to change the strue- ture of the club by going full time last summer, while also looking for a new home. And Mr Knight confirmed after Wednesday night’s meeting that the IMG are still reviewing two final + Continues on page 3 1 Racal Cote, Rembrandt Close (Halbcin Clos) Black Dam, Basingstoke vwewbasingstokeobserver.co.uk READING WAREHOUSES TEL 0118 981 4188 + Liza was cheered on by supporters as she had her head shaved (Picture by This & That Photography) ABASINGSTOKE mum-of-two has boldly gone and had her head com- pletely shaved to help cancer sufferers in the town. Liza Nightingale had the dreaded haircut on Saturday at Basingstoke hospital, where she herself was diagnosed two years ago. ‘But after bravely fighting back to beat cancer herself, she has now raised more than £4,000 for a campaign aimed at building the town’s own dedicated cancer treatment centre. + See page 3 for full story » WHITE TOWER N Cissy Clemson Al Hort Quaiied Hortcutursts AALDERMASTONS BEST KEPT SECRET URSERY Over 60 Varieties Of Seed Potatoes, Loose Onion Sets & Shallots Now In Stock Te: O1189 712123 Website: www.whitetowernursery.co.uk Aldermaston Village, Berks, RG7 4LD. Find us on the left on the A340 as you exit Aldermaston Village heading towards the A4 2 Thuraday, january 19 - Wedsday, January 25,2017 “To adverse call Basingstoke Observer on 01256 952180 Read thi newspaper one a wow. basingstoceobserver:co.uke observer New rough sleep cash (Oxtordshire OXI THR who ran over and Killed a . Tee 01235 511700 Basingstoke cyclist while look- A ing at his phone has had his “lephone: 01635 780180 appeal to reduce his sentence Ee ecpaan para rejected. ieee Christopher Gard, of Linnet By Christian Wilson = Way, Alton, was travelling at papsolntitleliy u ———— ; Rrecneerameraermegl | wound comph wen necrove ames ‘THEmission to help reduce the 3 (Peiietibaibiatiedi | into the back of dad-ofwoLee oe on ieee number of people sleeping on f-} —< Poteet | Martin on August 12 ¢ ee the streets of Basingstoke and S oe fame, PONE" campaign The 30-year-old denied being eileen Deane has received another |J BY ess at fault initially, due to his hav- peo) © eae major boost. ing eight previous convictions Observer This is after the borough of using a phone behind the Contact Michelle on 01238 516907 council's bid for additional fund- wheel, with the final incident michele@tylomewspaperscouk ing tg help tackle rough sleep- coming just six weeks before Advertising Manager ing locally was approved as part the fatal crash. [abet ofa £20million Government pro- After being sentenced to aipesauesaeeeee seemane ject to address the issue. nine years in prison for the Distribution & The latest figures show crime, it was then revealed in ‘Subscriptions there to be 26 people currently November that Gard would be Telephone 01635 780160 sleeping on the streets of Bas- cchallenging his sentence at the [email protected] _ingstoke and Deane, with this Court of Appeal, although this Newsdesk numbermirroringthenational “This funding from the gov- Tackling homelessness has sion Partnership, Cllr Reid, | was rejected by a three-judge Group Editor: trendbyincreasingby sixonthe ernment will support some been one of the council's main expressed her hope that the | panel on Tuesday. Karen Nevile previous year. really vital work that is needed prioritiesin recent months, with latest grant would continue 01235 516931 But the £263,700of new fund- to help our most vulnerable the Social Inclusion Partner- the good work being done in | Racial abuse [email protected] ing will look to reduce this by residents with complex needs ship helping to raise nearly the borough. hit Reporeer: commissioning psychologists to to move their lives forward, £14,000in December throughits She added: “We are so proud Peomtinee get at the heart of the complex while also helping us to shape ‘Real change not loose change’ of the work that is taking place BerAdves! an issues that force people onto services so they are easier to campaign. in Basingstoke to tackle home- prea the streets. access in the future.” Hundreds of residents vol- lessness. Ceeai wise Deputy leader ofthe council, The roughsleeping grant will unteer theirtimeandmoneyto “The Real Change campaign ARSE Terri Reid, said: “It is deeply also fund the training ofstaffto pilot separate schemes to pro- has been a shining example of pesere—on saddening to see more people help support people by making videan emergency night shelter just how much support there is Feaures Writer are sleeping on ourstreets, but them think about the possibili- forrough sleepers, and convert to make areal difference to the James Richings e weare not standing still, and we ties ofchange by attending ses- adisabled toilet at The Camrose lives of people who, for many | BASINGSTOKE: ACCTV image 01235 516923, are trying new things with our sions at street outreach, day Centre intoa shower room. reasons, havefoundthemselves_| has been released of a man [email protected] partners to make difference. centres and community hubs. Chair of the Social Inclu- on the streets.” suspected of racially abusing a Production member of staff at Basingstoke Tlephone: 01635 780160 hospital eae eee Golf club chips in with record donation to Basingstoke Foodbank The 24-year-old victim was esting lunch in the canteen at ‘the hospital on Thursday, Janu- ary 5 when the man walked past and made a racist remark ACHARITY that provides food — Operations and development [jy for needy people across Bas- manager Paula Vallance said: | : ingstoke is celebrating after “We are extremely grateful to Publishers receivingits biggest ever single all the members of Sandford about him. donation. Springs for their generosity. He is described as white, Statement Kingsclere-based golf club “This donation is the single and bald, while he was wear- Available for free pick up Sandford Springs chose to largest amount that we have ing a green hooded top, and from selected outlets. raise money for the Basing- ever received, and will goa long was accompanied by a short Obs Goup stoke Foodbank throughout way to help us pay our running woman with dark hair. last year, with the final total costs, which are approximately The incident took place at newspapers are published reaching e3,200 £20,000 a year. around 3.55pm, with anyone by Taylor Newspapers Ltd The charity, in Sarum Hill, “As we have no guaranteed who may have any information, See tmylomewspaperscouk or is open three days a week, and source of income, we are totally + Paula and Pete Vallance receive the cheque from Gerry Penfold | Of who recognises the man last year provided the food to dependent on donations, grants from the picture urged to call ensure that more than 3,500 and fundraising activities such Club captain Gerry Penfold porting local people in tempo- | Hampshire Constabulary’s PC people from across Basingstoke as the events organised and added: “The Foodbank is a rary crisis, who may otherwise | Chris Brindley on 101, quoting and Deane didn't go hungry. _arrangedby Sandford Springs.” wonderful organisation, sup- go hungry.” 44170012929. 2firePlace Attention Landlords aa BASINGSTOKE Do you want to feel like your [OME AND VISIT OUR SHOWROOM property WORKS FOR YOU and not You for it? f, Call Now: 01256 321 012 Do you want to GET YOUR RENT : . every month even ifthe property) Cheapest MOT & Services.... Guaranteed Sempy: Services offered for both PRIVATE & COMMERCIAL vehicles Do you want to be FREE OF FEES wMor veka an Conn everytime the tenants change? =. | eee = + Free MOT Retest Exhausts + Collect & Carry + Repairs + Gear Boxes + Suspension Do you want to get more of YOUR OWN TIME BACK? ie If your answer is “YES’ to any or all of the above and want to find out more... Then call Angela or james for a no obligations chat on 0118 370 6768 ‘Are you aware of: Between 8:30 am to 6:00 pm Monday to Saturday gstoke.gov.uk/lowcarbonloans aa wow paritytrust.org.uk sea enantio THE FIREPLACE | | 3 Rivernet Management (UK Company Number: 08852018) 01256 363305 Office: Atlantic House, imperial Way, Reading, RG2 OTD On Production of Voucher 3] 4 Relocation and Temporary accommedation professionals) |" «-kford Lane, Chineham, Basingstoke RG24 8NA Read thi newspaper online a wonwibasingstolceobserverco.uk “To adveree call Gasngrtoke Observer on 01256 952180 “Thursday, 19 - Wednesday, january 25,2017 3 Lost long locks will now help to make wigs for others Liza smashes fundraising target By Christian Wilson BASINGSTOKE’S Liza Night- ingale was cheered on by her nearest and dearest on Satur- day as she sacrificed her blonde locks to help in the fight against caneer. ‘There was areal party atmos- phere as the mum-of-two had her head completely shaved at Basingstoke hospital, where she received the care that helped her beat breast cancer two years 0. Liza, of Pheasant Close, Kempshott, is thankful for her condition being caught early by doctors, and therefore chose to “give something back” by sup- porting a campaign to build a cancer treatment centre for the town. ‘The 49-year-old aimedto raise £2,500 for Ark Cancer Centre Charity through her sponsored head shave, but has smashed that total to smithereens to instead top £4,100. And in another charitable move, Liza has also ensured that her old hair won't go to waste by donating it to help make wigs for others. Addressing her supporters after her special trim, she said: “Teould nor have done this with- out all of you. “Lam delighted that the origi- nal fundraising target has been smashed, that Ihave succeeded inraising awareness of the char- ity, and Thave got to have a little party with all of you lovely people too. That is amazing. ‘My hair will be donated to the Little Princess Trust, who make wigs for children and adults, so that it is another great result from this fundraising event. “The point is that I have a choice to shave my hair off, but people going through cancer trustee Merv Rees expressing treatment do not.” Liza also sold cakes and araffle at the Candover Cli where she works s a reception- ist,in order to boost ArkCancer the charity, and thanks to eve- Centre Charity’s coffers, with Be a part of Basingstoke Town FC + From front page nity ownership comes just a month options on the future of the Ark after BTFC made headline news Cancer Charity Stadium, with a nationwide by being falsely put up for final decision expected in the next few weeks. He added: “A fundamental part of the move away from private owner- ship will be far greater involvement with other community groups; ere- ating more opportunities to utilise the club’s facilities, and working together for the benefit of the whole sale on eBay bya former club diree- tor, ina bid to attract a new owner. Supporters Direct, a national umbrella organisation of support- ers’ trusts that run football clubs, will help BTFC develop its commu- nity ownership campaign and plans. Development manager James ‘Mathie said: “We know time is community.” short and there are challenges to ‘opportunity. “We believe there are significant benefits that this club can bring to the town, and we want to see how we might take that further if fans, and the community, were involved as owners. “Ultimately this will only work if we can generate enough sup- port from the town for a sustain- able and competitive club, which ‘can increase what it does for the community beyond Saturday his delight. Id He said: “I am very grate- ful to Liza for this brave, and significant, show of support for ryone who has sponsored and supported her. “You have all made a differ- enceto the charity's fundraising campaign.” Anyone wishing to sponsor Liza can still do so at justgiv- ing.com/fundraising/Liza-Night- ingale. Lottery results BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE: St Michael's Hospice has announced the winners of its latest lottery draw from Friday, January 13. First prize of £1,000 goes to ticket 34306 of Basingstoke, ticket 10021 of Basingstoke claims second prize of £100. Third prize of £50 goes to Hook ticket 65164, and Bas- ingstoke ticket 73203 gets fourth prize of £20. Prizes of £5 go to 74994, 64078, 84564, 80088, 02540, 74507, 36068, 47928, 03188, 43208, 35191, 89377, 67955, 78071, 68764, and 00168, ONE YOU drive HART: An NHS campaign encouraging people to make simple changes towards a longer lfe is being supported by Hart District Counc. New analysis from Public Health England has shown eight out of 10 middle aged people either weigh, or eat, too much, or don't exercise enough, The ONE YOU campaign runs. throughout January, and people are being urged to take a moment to consider their health, and the steps they can take to improve it. Cabinet member for commu- nity wellbeing, Anne Cramp- ton, said: “This campaign can give you great ideas for a happy and healthy 2017” ‘News ofa move towards commu- ‘overcome, but with change comes afternoon.” LSB TIGI FRUEBYS Mt is. O BARBERSHOP & HAIRDRESSERS EST 1991 The Academy Come tothe academy to et "aad! We the 92 ‘enweencolege and 2 al ii tine (Cal Andy a Rk for ‘more deta on Tetbye Festival Place 07818 407 400 PI Posters Walk shop - 7.30PM THURS Peta Festival place shop ~ SPM FRIDAYS LIGUSS Pack Lane shop - SPM THURSDAY Growing bigger by being better. 01256 325777 01256 364747 Always good service, Always good value! 01256 844116 = — | FIREPLACES AND STOVES Exclusive Fireplaces have over 25 years experience in the fireplace industry. (Our fireplaces are made to measure to suit your requirements. We survey all the installations to ensure that the finished fireplace will be superb. + Spciisngin old stock brick replices and beau natural stone with real ld beans, + Excuse replaces made to order taloed to your own design i required + Selle isallers both Gas Safe and Het registered. ‘Vast ange of fireplaces, stoves and accessories avaiable Your truly local double glazing company | RAINBOW DOUBLE GLAZING LIMITED 1992-2015 3 successful ye: www.rainbowdoubleglazing.co.uk came’ Checkatradecom ry windows ° doors * porches * soffits * rooflines » cladding * conservatories * garage conversions NEW - Sold roof syatom for existing conservatory |FENSA| eLecSa facebook. For a free no-obligation quotation please call FREEPHONE: Pe LB aS Give your house Za s a facelift J ft IP Z FF TON With'new windows : - and ‘doors C o rator Finance Packages Availablé ui Visit our showroom 3 Crockford Lane Chineham Business Park RG24 8NA Contact us 01256 841522 Find us online www.riptonwindows.co.uk Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. We are a credit broker and not a lender. appa Qs We offer credit facilities from one lender. [SSS MARK | Read thi newspaper online a worwbasingstolceobserverco.uk “To adver call Gasngrtoke Observer on 01256 952180 “Thursday, a 19 - Wednesday. January 25,2017 5 More pothole funding still needed By Christian Wilson AFURTHER £5million in Gov- ernment funding to help fill potholes across Hampshire is still not enough, according to the county council The latest cash boost was announeed on Friday and fol- loweda survey taken by Basing- stoke-based The AA that found 35 per cent of members rated their roads to be in a “poor to bad” condition. But while admitting he was pleased to receive the funds, member for transport at the council, Rob Humby, insisted that continued reductions in Government revenue funding would tamper its effect. He said: “Overall, itlooks like the Government has given us 5m with one hand, and are tak- ing away £5m with the other. “Continued reductions in revenue funding for councils is putting a squeeze on all council services, andis leading to redue- tions in day-to-day maintenance work. “We were pleased to be awarded £5m from the Govert ‘ment’s new National Producti ity Investment Fund, but would certainly weleome more invest- ‘ment into this vital infrastrue- ture by central Government, so we can get on with the job that needs doing” ‘The county council currently invests £10m from its own budget each year to fix the roads, with £2.1malso being allocated in the Chancellor's autumn statement to fill 40,000 potholes county- wide throughout 2017. This funding was previously labelled a “drop in the ocean” by borough councillor Jack Cous- ens however, with this concern over potholes being backed up by a fifth of 18,000 road users telling The AA they'd be pre- pared to fix them themselves. The AA's president Edmund King said: “The UK has got itself into a rut of filling in potholes, waiting for them to re-appear, and then filling them in again. “Government needs to give local authorities a further injee- tion of funds. “But, this time, the money must be used to restore the roads properly, rather than just papering over the cracks.” Clir Humby added: “I quite agree with the call from the country’s motoring organisa- tions on the Government for more investment for local high- ‘way authorities to maintain and improve the road network. “It’s important that councils, who are already facing con- siderable funding pressures, are given the help they need to maintain this critical infra- structure.” World’s first Jane Austen statue planned in celebration A PROTOTYPE of the first ever Jane Austen statue will be unveiled in Farleigh Wallop later today. Basingstoke and Deane is cel- ebrating the life of the legend- ary novelist throughout 2017 to ‘mark 200 years since her death ‘Austen was born and raised near Basingstoke, in Steventon, where she wrote some of her most famous work, including Pride and Prejudice. ‘And the borough will recog- nise her importance to the area in July by unveiling a life-size bronze statue in Basingstoke town centre at Market Place. Basingstoke sculptor Adam Roud has been commissioned by the Hampshire Cultural ‘Trust to create the world’s first Austen sculpture, in order to continue the local feel of the tribute. ‘The maquette of the statue will be shown for the first time at an invitation-only event at Far- leigh House this evening. Basingstoke MP Maria Miller will be on hand for the unveil- ing, and said: “Jane Austen is awriter of worldwide repute. “Born in the borough, she is a women who broke the mould in her generation, “Lam delighted that she is to be recognised in a sculpture; it is a fitting tribute to her, not only locally, but will also serve toreinforee her place in history as one of the finest writers.” Sex-ed call BASINGSTOKE: Maria Miller has launched a campaign to make age appropriate sex and relationship education (SRE) statutory for school children. The campaign follows research from charity Bar- nardo’s showing that seven in 10 secondary school chil- dren would like this to happen, with a report published by the women and equalities commit- tee also exposing the scale of sexual harassment in schools. Basingstoke MP Mrs Miller said: “Children are clear they want SRE to be compulsory, and are calling for the Govern- ment to help make that hap- pen. Cyberbullying, online abuse, and sexual harassment in schools are all part of teen- age life in Britain today” Co-op funds BASINGSTOKE: Good causes in Basingstoke stil have time to nominate themselves for a funding boost after the Co-op extended the deadline for charities to apply to its mem- bership scheme The Co-op is on the lookout for local charities to share thou- sands of pounds generated by its new membership propos tion, in the next round of fund- ing, which stars in Apri Applicants have until next Wednesday to submit entries, at https:/icauses.coop.co.uk. ROLLER GARAGE DOORS CENTRE @ Fully Insulated @ Visit our showroom or request a home visit @ We provide our own professional engineers Automatic Insulated Aluminium Fitted Roller Garage Door So simple to operate Fully automatic Simple key fob operation Fully insulated No maintenance Reduced draughts Space saving Full range of colours Single / double doors all made in our Electric Garage Doors © Custom made & British built @ Free no obligation quotations © Price Guarantee @ Free 5 year warranty @ A huge range of styles and colours @ Police secured by design and insurance approved option available @ Fitting Garage Doors since 1995 Bishop's Waltham factory ARQ skandoor Lan . = ) ekatrade.com ] Where reputation matters o Pouce perERng SPCCATION Police Recommended and Insurance Approved Open 7 days a week. info@skandoo .co.uk Sere emeee www.skandoor.co.uk ekatrade.com www.rollergaragedoorscentre.co.uk : “CO- Thon eee {6 Thursday, January 19 - Wednesday, January 25, #* U.K, GARPET: inenernenesrpeassries) Mm) OMIM UNIT 19 ENTERPRISE CENTRE, )) a\Sa) gf) MONITON ESTATE WEST HAM LANE, RG22 6NG FL} OOK FOR THE UNION JACKS Read thi newspaper online a wonwibasingstolceobserverco.uk “To adverse call Gasngrtoke Observer on 01256 952180 “Thursday, january 19 - Wednesday, January 25,2017 7 Fortnightly bin collection BASINGSTOKE: Pian ahead and put your name down to scheme in bid to save £lm & Complex will hold charity St By Christian Wilson “It seems as if they said r~ me 5 Michael's Hospice’s annual 5k what's the cheapest option, and | and 10k runs on May 17. BASINGSTOKE and Deane’s can we havea discount please?” ‘Adults and children will be council is considering only “Residents will simply not able to have a go at one of the collecting rubbish bins from accept AWC, without improve- two races around the track, in outside people's homes once a ments to their collections, Pack Lane, with prices for the fortnight. both in terms or reliability and 5k ranging from £6 to £10, and One of the ideas proposed for increasing the amount of recy- the 10k costing £8 for kids and the authority's new joint waste clable items. £16 for adults. contract would see residents’ “In the renegotiations the St Michael’s Hospice pro- grey and green bins beingemp- council has failed to tackle our vides palliative care and sup- tied on alternative weeks. shocking recycling rates, and Port for adults suffering with It is claimed that the switch they have failed our residents cancer-related conditions to alternate weekly collections too.” across north Hampshire. (AWC) would save the council Any possible changes would To register, visit tinyurl com/ up to £1million a year, while not come into place until next zsanhkj also resulting in arise in the October, when the current con- + Mixed views: Jack Cousens has labelled the suggestion a “rubbish borough's recycling rate”. tract runs out, with the idea ir ul, Brookvale and Kings being diccuseedby the council's ‘ea” while Heyley Eachus is looking to see whether the proposl is Rural crime event Furlong councillor Jack Cous- ity, environment and ‘uPPerted WHITCHURCH: Hampshire's ens has disagreed with this - partnerships committee last wrong” not toconsideralterna- and consider all the option: police and crime commis- instead insisting that the move night as the Observer went to tive options. especially given the size of this sioner (PCC), Michael Lane, ‘would represent a missed oppor- press. ClirHayley Eachus said: “We contract, and the substantial will hold a rural communities tunity to tackle the problem. ‘The committee will be asked empty bins from almost 73,000 savings the council will need matter conference in Whitch- He said: “I believe that in to give its views on what should homes across the borough every to find in future.” urch next month. some circumstances AWC could be considered when re-letting week She added: “At this point, we The aims to give those who work, but with the negotiating the eight-year contract, with “This is an opportunity to don'tneed to make any decision, live and work in rural commu- positions outlined, itis simply these comments then helping look at how we can continue to_ we just want to have all the facts nities the chance to give their a rubbish idea. the council's cabinet to decide provide the high levels of ser- and see if there is evidence to views on rural crime, and to “When the council were rene- what should be tendered. vice that residents have told us support any change. help set future rural priorities. Gill Nethercott Community Centre, in Winchester Street, will host the event on February 23, between 9.30am and 4pm. ‘Book your place at tinyurl com/zom662p. gotiating the waste contract, it This contract would also they value, but in a more effi- “Iam keen to understand any was the ideal time to say ‘we include an option to extend it cient way, and that will encour- concerns, and this process will want our residents to be able for an additional eight years, age people to recycle more and include speaking to residents, to recycle as much as possible with the council's member for waste less. sothat any decision that is made from the comfort of their own environment and regulatory “It would be wrong not to is founded on afull appreciation home’, but they clearly didn't. services insisting “it would be look at the service as a whole of people’s needs and wishes.” CREST wx. HOME IMPROVEMENTS Improving Homes Across Hampshire & Berkshire ay @ Windows @ Doors @ Conservatories @ Fascias, Soffits and Guttering @ Cladding @ Replacement glass = Winter Offer 25% OFF @ Our own fitting teams @ 15 Year Guarantee @ Available in various colours Soffits Zo Call today for a brochure or a hassle FREE no obligation quotation. Telephone: 01256 973173 0118 449 2493 Freephone 0800 688 9094 www.cresthi.co.uk 8. Thursday, January 19 - Wednesday. January 25.2017, “To adverse call Basingstoke Observer on 01256 952180 Read this newpaper online at www.basingstokeobeerverco.uke More strikes under way at AWE 35 homes plan BUCKSKIN: A planning appli- | By Adam Flinn “It is quite clear that this ments that are affordable for our cation has been submitted pledge has been shattered staff, and attractive to future to Basingstoke and Deane | AROUND 600 “deeply betrayed” and our members feel deeply employees. Borough Council to build 35 | workers at the Atomic Weapons betrayed—the hallmark of this “We have offered a signifi- houses in Buckskin. Establishment (AWE) have once dispute is a litany of broken cantly improved scheme and The developers are propos- | again walked out over the ongo- promises. additional enhanced benefits ing to build four one-bed fiats, | ing row over pensions. wey “The fourdaysofstrike action “This is a very competitive 12two-bed fats, eight two-bed | A 48-hourstrike began in the . this month are not being taken scheme, which has been bench- houses, and 11 three-bed | early hours of yesterday morn- lightly — it is not a ‘political’ marked against external com- houses on land off Wiltshire | ing at AWE’s sites in Alder- . ‘ © || strike, but one taken reluctantly parators, and puts the revised Crescent ‘maston and Burghfield, with a bs F] by our members who have no AWE scheme in the top 25 per The application reads: “The | further two-day strike planned | E desire to see thousands of cent. overall aim of the scheme is | to start on January 30. he pounds wiped off their retire- “Staff have been informed to provide a welcoming, safe, | Discussions have been going a ment incomes.” that from January 31, 2017 the secure, and easy-to-use liv- | on between AWE and trade Currently, AWE members pay AWE defined benefit scheme ing environment for future | unions Unite and Prospect since ig THE au HW 10 per cent of their salary into will close, and as of February residents, and a neighbourly | July, after the nuclear deterrent the pension scheme, while the 1, 2017 all members of the AWE development that sit comfort- | manufacturer proposed chang- Eger we employer pays 26percentunder Pension Scheme will be enrolled ably within the wider area.” | ing the way it calculates how s adefined benefit scheme. —_into the AWE Group Personal mich it pays into employees’ ‘The new proposal would see Pension scheme (AWEGPP).” Homeless aid pensions. + AWE workers protested outside of Parliament in December, employees pay from three per__The spokesperson added: Bosses plan to implement cent to eight per cent or more, “The safety and security of HART: A total of £385,000 | the changes on January 31, PME a successful lobby of MPs (Picture by @Unitepottics) While AWE paysin between nine AWE staff andthe general public worth of central Government | with two days of trikes already biggest employers. Government made copper bot- and 13 per cent under a defined remains our top priority during funding has been awarded to | having taken place over the Unite regional officer Bob tomed promises to AWE work- contribution scheme. periods of industrial action. Hart District Council in order | issue on November 14 and Middleton said: “It was in the ersregardingthe future oftheir An AWE spokesperson said: — “We have undertaken detailed tohelp prevent homelessness. | December 6 at AWE, which is House of Commons in the pensions,once they transferred “AWE is committed to estab- contingency planning and have The authority is one of 28 to | one of Basingstoke and Deane’s early 1990s that the then Tory to the private sector. lishing future pension arrange- resilient measures in place.” receive part of £50miillion in funding released by the Gov- . . . — a — emment inanewHomeless-| Investigation into policing shortfalls at AWE criticises treatment of junior officers a Tepe AN INTERNAL review of an ducted. The investigation took mitted gross misconduct, while _ Eamon Keating, the Defence A spokesman from the MoD The money will be used to investigation into policing short- place between September 2013 25 resigned over the matter,and Police Federation's national said: “MoD police officers are bring agencies together to bet- falls at AWE Burghfield has criti- and March 2016, after it was 19 had to attend misconduct chairman, said: “We have been held to the highest standards, ter identity and reach those at | Gules Samia esr e: Casco! Chet comet Deel ees ee tas erence risk of homelessness. made scapegoats for failings. weren't being carried out, and _ But the review into the inves- investigation has been con- these are not met, disciplinary Head of community services, Papers released under the insome cases, officershadbeen tigationfoundthatno-oneabove ducted. The force has acted action is taken. Phil Turner, saict “This wil be a | Freedom of Information Act sleeping on the job. the rank of sergeant was disci- punitively against officers, while “There was never any threat (great benefit io our residents. New a ee ee A total of 66 officers were plined over the matter, and it failing to take responsibility for to the safety or security of the Toney osupporthomelessness | _ the Ministry of Defence (MoD) investigated, with six sacked didn’t address the root cause of the supervision that contributed Ee ae sea services is very welcome” Police's investigation was con- after being found to have com- the problems. to this issue.” ARE YOU WORRYING |inpeanyase ABOUT MONEY? * Unsure how you or your business will weather the storm? * Phone ringing with debt collectors? * Not opening your post? * Unable to make payments on time? INDIVIDUALS, SOLE TRADERS, PARTNERSHIPS, LIMITED COMPANIES © We Can HELP! * Combining technical expertise, experience and a no nonsense approach let us RESCUE you. + Whatever the problems you are facing, our friendly, Book a free initial ne compassionate staff will GUIDE you. withlounheatine expertstoda IVA's, BANKRUPTCY, LIQUIDATIONS, ADMINISTRATIONS, CVA's 6 i Y www.maryharehearingcentres.co.uk Worting House, Basingstoke, By EA Hampshire, RG23 8PX Weavers Walk, Newbury, RG14 1AL www.beaconbasingstoke.co.uk 0163552333 iv Contact us NOW for a FREE LOCAL CONSULTATION 01256 345547 [email protected] Newbury 01635 780180 Basingstoke 01256 952180 Cheryl Brown 56 952180 wor basigstokeobsarverca.uk / Newbury Observer 01635 780180 wwwnewburyobserverco “Thursday, january 19 - Wednesday january 25,2017 9 SS" £50 holiday discount voucher given on arrival T&C apply Toucan Travel’s Travel Show (Fabulous Prizes ; 22nd January 2017 — Apollo Hotel ights accommodation at che Solana Beach, Mauri Half Board Basis in a superior room (2 adults shar nse TBide OHH. onsored by Kuoni Date: 22nd January ences: 10am till 3pm Location: Apollo Hotel, Aldermaston Roundabout, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 9NU > register for this come along on the day or at your nearest Toucan Travel, chester Travel or Per vel, you will automatically be entered into our FREE prize draw, which ed by Hartwell Villas ys accommodation at the 5* Amathus Beach Hore fo people on Bed and Breakfast Basis. Sponsored by Cyplon Holidays Plus many more g Travel Talks 22nd January 2017 — Apollo Hotel ww.coucantravel.covuk 10.30 am - “RAIL HOLIDAYS” 12.30 pm - “NORTHERN LIGHTS By Great Rail Journeys By Best Served Scandinavia 11.30 am - “NEWTO CRUISE” 1.30pm - “JAPAN” By Royal Caribbean By Wendy Wu If you would like to attend any of our talks please advise as spaces are limited On: Tel: 01256 356631 Email: _ [email protected] Or pop into your local Toucan Travel, Winchester Travel or Peregrine Travel Branch. £50 holiday discount voucher given on arrival T&C apply wf edged dtirAcuonmtor 20117, mille Swe C) ildren to meetEISsaand Anna =Photo opportunities from 12:00 — 2:00pm “So bring your cameras 10 Thursday, january 19 - Weeneday.ansary 25,2017 “To adverse call Gasngrtoke Observer on 01256 952180 Read ths newspaper onlne at www. basingstokeobserverco.uk Apply to start a traineeship ‘THE county council is invit- ing young people from across Hampshire to get their new year offtoa good start by apply- ing for a traineeship. ‘Traineeships are aimed at people aged between 16 to 24 whose exam results or expe- rience do not qualify them for anapprenticeship or other job- based training scheme. ‘A work experience place- ment, — confidence-building activities, and practice at things like CV writing and interview skills are all involved in the traineeship. The council's executive mem- ber for education, Peter Edgar, said: “Some people's abilities don’t shine through in aca- £5 tax increase to boost police By Christian Wilson aspects of current policing. ‘A two per cent increase of £3.19 would protect the cur- rent level of national fund- ing, although the chairman of Hampshire's Police Federation told residents not to expect a return tothe number of officers just a few years back. “This isn't about getting more boots on the ground, it about sustaining policing,” said John Apter. A£5 inerease in council tax is ‘among the options put forward by Hampshire's police and crime commissioner (PCC) to improve local policing. ‘Michael Lane is asking resi- dents how much they believe they should contribute to help sustain Hampshire Constabu- lary in the wake of £85million of cuts over the last four years. demic exams, but that doesn't | A total of3,748 policemen and “While Isupport aninerease, | THE Rotary Club of Basing- mean they can't sueceed. That's | women were employed in the this won't undo the devastat- | stoke Deane has signed up as why we offer other ways to get | county in 2010, while the latest ing damage done, so the PCC_| one of the main sponsors for startedon the careerladder. | figures released by the Home needs to explain to residents | an art project honouring Jane “Itakeadeep personal nter- | Office show there to have been what an inerease would actu- | Austen. est in this scheme, and Ihave | 2,883 by March 2016 ~ a dro ally do. ‘A total of 25 specially deco- ‘seen young people come out of | of 865. m: « Hampshire PCC Michael Lane “Ifpeople thinkthey're going | rated “BookBlenches’ are due to school with no qualifications, begina traineeship, and quickly build the confidence and skills to join the working world.” ‘The council offers differ- ent levels of traineeship, with ‘The average Hampshire household currently pays £160.46 a year in tax for their police force, with the three options proposed by the PCC suggesting increases of £5, they consider the best for polic- ing in Hampshire. “While Iam recommending the £5 increase, I will strive to ensure that residents receive value for money, and that effec- tobe swamped with police offic- ers, they're wrong, this is about fire fighting, and trying to sus- tain a service that’s already been crippled by budget cuts. “To try and salvage some go on display later this year to mark200 years since the death ofthe Steventon-born novelist. Each of the benches are shaped like an open book and are covered in Austen-related youngsters having until Janu- | £3.19, ornone at all. tiveness not compromised in of that, the PCC is having to | designs drawn up by artists ary 27 to apply for one that is | Mr Lanesaid:“The national the pursuit ofefficiency” _askthepublieforextra money, | from across the region in cel- right for them. funding formula is notyet fair, The 2016/17 budget for which isn’t right, but it’s the | ebration of the life of Basing- stoke and Deane’s most famous daughter. ‘The BookBenches will be put on publie display throughout the borough during the sum- mer, before eventually being Cllr Edgar added: “I would encourage any young person who is unsure what to do next, to get in touch with us.” To apply, visit tinyurl.com/ hafzayy. but I am committed to being partofthe national debate, and focusing attention on getting this right. “Lam asking residents totell me which local funding option Hampshire Constabulary and the PCC stands at £305m, with Mr Lane warning that no increase in tax could further affect the level of national fund- ingawarded, and reduce some reality unfortunately.” Residents have until next Friday to have their say by completing the survey at hampshire-pee.gov.uk/pre- ceptsurvey. + A Gham (on) ojo ofthe ncn with fol oars Rotary club supports Austen bench project auctioned off, with 75 per cent ofthe proceeds going to Basing- stoke organisation Ark Cancer Centre Charity. ‘And with the rotary club selecting Ark as one of its sup- ported charities, elub president Alan Gibson expressed his delight at becoming one of the main sponsors for the ‘Sitting With Jane’ project. He said: “The Basingstoke Deane Rotarians have a proud track record of supporting local good causes and important pro- jects, and Sitting With Jane ticks both of those boxes. “Sitting With Jane is an exciting cultural, educational and legacy initiative that will ultimately benefit Ark Cancer Centre Charity.” 16a Church Street, Basingstoke Hampshire, R621 7QH Friday 17th and Saturday 18th February We welcome you to pop in from 9am-4pm to meet the team, there will be tea and coffee avail- At the Zip Yard we offer: * Clothing alterations * Leather Jackets able and FREE dental advice * Dress re-stying __* School Uniforms © Garment repairs» Wedding/Bridal wear Reductions on all standard dental care i & SA corer carice mine rorrel ear Great savings on all Private Dentistry & Interest Free Credit available aii 6 * Discount vouchers available for purchase FREE goodie bags ‘And we offer a 1 hour express service for zips, hems and minor repairs We also have on-site fitting rooms, no appointments required. + Emergency Services Available * Hygiene Services + Preventative Dentistry * Restorative Dentistry * Cosmetic Dentistry *Gum Treatments + Implants *Dentures _* Implant Retained Dentures * Onsite Laboaratory & Technicians All treatment is carried out by our Experts & Specialists in that specific field (Free Parking & on all major bus routes) TEL:01256 353033 / 01256 353252 Clinic location 5 mins from Chineham Shopping centre Li ed, 10 Aviary Court, Wade R jasingstoke. RG24 E 01256 474735 www.thezipyard.co.uk