Tamworth Blog

Train Track - Pic: Roger Marks

The British Transport Police are holding a one day, high profile crack down on Metal thefts which have hit the railway networks over the past 12 months as metal prices have sky rocketed throughout the world.

Theft of signal cable, rail and other metals have caused numerous delays effecting commuters all over to the country, not only Tamworth.

Detective Chief Inspector Simon Jones, who is heading the day of action for BTP, said:

“Cable theft is one of the biggest issues facing the rail industry. Each year the actions of the thieves cost train operating companies, Network Rail, public utilities and communities millions of pounds in repairs and lost business.

“Thankfully the thieves are not putting rail passengers at risk when signal cable is damaged because any signals attached to a severed cable will automatically switch to red halting any trains on the track.”

It isn’t only the delays that these thefts cause, but the thieves themselves are putting themselves at risk as the signalling cables can carry extremely high voltage with some thieves injuring themselves in the act.

The national day of action is the latest response to cable and general metal theft and will see teams from around England, Scotland and Wales targeting thieves and their means of carrying and selling on the stolen metal.

Hatha Yoga - Pic: myyogaonline

Hatha yoga Classes are available in Dosthill Boys Club  every Wednesday morning between 11-30am and 1pm

The classes are also held across the town on other days including:-

• Millfield Primary School in Fazeley Wednesday evenings between 7.30pm and 9pm.

• St. Martins Centre in Ellerbeck, Stoneydelph – Thursday Mornings between 10am – 11.30am

• St Peters Church and Community Centre in Hawksworth, Glascote Heath – Thursday evenings between 7pm – 8.30pm.

For more information email Angela on angelayoga@yahoo.co.uk or telephone her on 0780 983 2082.

Marmion House, Tamworth Borough Council

Tamworth Borough Council have successfully prosecuted another Benefit Cheat who falsely claimed over £9,000 in benefits.

Martin Brooks of Stanhope House on Lichfield Street was brought before Tamworth Magistrates Court following a joint investigation between Tamworth Borough Council and the Department for Work and Pensions.

Mr Brookes failed to notify authorities of capital he already had which lead to him receiving over payments in his Housing and Council Tax Benefits of £4,063.06 and over payment of £5,318.30 in Income Support, a total over payment of some £9,381.36.

Cllr Robert Pritchard, portfolio holder for Corporate Governance, said:

“Benefit fraud is an issue we take very seriously. By working with the Department for Work and Pensions we can make sure people abusing the system are stopped in their tracks.

“Benefit thieves are stealing directly from the pockets of Tamworth Taxpayers. As this case shows, we will take steps to ensure we recoup tax payer’s money wherever possible. However we also want to work with people so there is a better understanding of benefits, so we can avoid court cases where possible.”

Mr Brooks was sentenced included an 80 hour community order and £100 costs.  The over payment has also been repaid in full by Mr Brooks.

Michael Jackson - Anthony Edwards

So Halloween and Bonfire Night are now complete, the next big date is Christmas and with 45 days to Christmas (on Tuesday November 10), thoughts are turning towards the Christmas Parties.

Drayton Manor Park hosts it’s annual Christmas Banquets in the parks three suites, offering the perfect Christmas Party including food and disco entertainment.  Perfect for either that Corporate or Family Party.

The park have several nights available, all with meals prepared by the park’s top chefs with prices starting at just £20 per person including entertainment and dinner.

There will also be two special cabaret nights which will include performances from some of the countries biggest tribute acts.  With Robbie Williams and Michael Jackson entertaining you after your Christmas meal, rounding off the perfect Christmas Party.  Anthony Edwards will perform a tribute to the King of Pop, Michael Jackson on Friday December 4 and Paul Williams will perform all of Robbie Williams Greatest Hits on Thursday December 17.  Tickets for these parties are also priced at £20, but get in quick as these will sell out quick.

The park will also be holding three very different parties on New Years Eve ensuring something for everyone. A special Family Party will be held in the Tower Suite, making sure that the whole family can enjoy seeing in the New Year together. The Missanda Suite will offer a five-course dinner and disco allowing guests to enjoy the fabulous food before dancing their way into the New Year. Meanwhile, in the Hamilton Suite, guests will be able to enjoy a traditional seven-course dinner followed by a disco until late.

To find out more log on to www.draytonmanor.co.uk or contact the park on 01827 252400