ERYC Events throughout the area

including Cottingham

SCHOOL'S OUT 2010

With the summer holidays fast approaching parents and carers of primary age children are being sent a booklet full of ideas for children’s activities and out of school facilities available during the school break.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s School’s Out 2010 booklet will be delivered to every primary school child in the East Riding from Monday, July 5.

The booklet include activities and information from leisure centres, sports development, Families Information Service Hub (FISH), extended services, children’s centres and the voluntary and community sector.

Lesley Gilson, FISH manager said: “The aim of Schools Out is to provide parents and carers with detailed and accurate information to help them book activities and childcare well in advance of the summer holidays.

“There are a huge range of courses and activities on offer from dancing and football to more unusual activities like polo and gliding.”

Extra support is also available for parents and carers of disabled children in booking places for activities, with a co-ordinator contacting a parent or carer about their child’s needs and making the necessary arrangements. Requests must be made at least four working days in advance of the activity.

Copies of School’s Out 2010 will also be available from leisure centres, customer service centres and libraries or alternatively ring FISH on (01482) 396469.

Activities can also be viewed and booked on-line by visiting: www.fish.eastriding.gov.uk  or via the East Riding website’s “what’s on” section at events.eastriding.gov.uk, simply select the “School’s Out 2010 brochure” which will be available from July 5.

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BARNES WALLIS -

THE YORKSHIRE CONNECTION AND BEYOND

Barnes Wallis
The Yorkshire Connection and Beyond
18th June – 14th August 2010

The Treasure House, Beverley

The Barnes Wallis Trust, together with the Royal Society and East Riding of Yorkshire Council, will be celebrating the 80th anniversary of the R.100 airship’s first transatlantic flight with a touring exhibition called 'Barnes Wallis - The Yorkshire Connection and Beyond.'
 
The exhibition forms part of the Royal Society’s 350th anniversary celebrations with a national programme of events celebrating ‘Local Heroes.’

Sir Barnes Wallis was based at the Howden Airship station in the East Riding whilst he oversaw the design and construction of the R100 airship between 1926 and 1929. Famously renowned for his ‘bouncing bomb’ this exhibition gives the visitor an invaluable insight into the life and work of Sir Barnes Wallis and the opportunity to learn more about the inventive genius of the man.

A series of talks and a film on the building of the R100 have been organised in conjunction with the exhibition.

Nial Adams, the council's principal museums officer, said: “I am delighted that my team have worked in partnership with the energetic Barnes Wallis Memorial Trust to produce an excellent exhibition exploring the work of this great engineer and  designer.”

If you would like further information on the exhibition and events, please contact Alison Brice, Beverley Curator, on 01482 392776/01482 392780, This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it Jaane Rowehl, museum development office, on 01482 392775/01482 392780 This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it


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HAVE A DABBLE DAY!

DURING the summer holidays, young people in Willerby and Kirkella will be encouraged by the police to ‘Have a Dabble’ at the Haltemprice Leisure Centre, sampling an array of activities including Scuba Diving, Abseiling, Archery and Climbing.

PC Dave Philips who is the Neighbourhood Officer for Willerby and Kirkella came up with the idea for youngsters to ‘Have a Dabble’ and try a variety of activities, when they may have not tried them in the past in a bid to tackle boredom and anti-social behaviour during the long summer holidays.

Anyone aged between 12 and 16 years old are invited to attend the two day ‘Have a Dabble Day’ hosted by the Local Neighbourhood Policing Team at Haltemprice Sports Centre on either Monday 26th July 2010, between 0900hrs and 1530hrs and Monday 02 August 2010 between 0900 and 1530hrs.

PC Dave Phillips said: “This is the first time I have organised an event of this sort. After speaking to young people living in the area I have arranged two days which are called "Have a Dabble Day" at Haltemprice Sports Centre. The days are aimed at young people between the ages of 12 - 16 years. The idea of the event is to divert these young people from boredom and anti-social activity during the Summer Holidays.

“During the course of the day, I have arranged for the following activities for young people to "Have a Dabble" with; Scuba Diving, Climbing, Abseiling, Archery, Street Dance, Jujitsu, Karate and a coach teaching them how to Skateboard/BMX at the Skate park.

“Every activity will have a trained expert showing them how take part safety.

“I am beginning to register young people to take part in the events and we are all really looking forward to the two days. If the events are a success, I hope to arrange similar initiative for next year.

“Boredom during the summer holidays can naturally result in anti-social behaviour and if I am able to keep a number of young people entertained and learn new skills on the way, I think the event will be a success.”

The event has been part funded by Anlaby Common and Willerby Parish Councils and the High Sheriffs Tribune Trust.

The event will cost £2 per person, per day to cover the hire of the facilities.

Anyone interested in taking part is asked to contact Haltemprice Leisure Centre on 01482 652501.

Registration for the event can take place at Haltemprice Sports Centre or Kirkella Police Station, pre registration is a must as parental consent is required to participate in activities.

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DAVID WOOD AT SEWERBY HALL

AND GARDENS

Sewerby Hall and Gardens is delighted to announce that musician David Wood will be performing in the Orangery on Thursday, 5 August at 2pm.

The multi-instrumentalist graduated from the University of Wales and has had a successful career as a secondary school music teacher, but in 1996, he left the classroom to become a full-time teacher of woodwind instruments, working for the North Yorkshire and East Riding Music Services.

However, the piano remains his first instrument and he gives recitals from time to time in the Scarborough and Bridlington areas.

As an orchestrator, David has been involved in the scoring of a major film as well as a number of smaller projects.  Locally, he has prepared scores for large, combined music service youth ensembles in Scarborough and Bridlington.

In 2002, David received the rare honour of being granted permission from the Queen to dedicate his jubilee march “Golden Reign” to her, before its first performance in Beverley.

Admission charges to Sewerby Hall and Gardens apply but there is no additional charge to attend this event.

For further information, call (01262) 673769 or visit www.sewerby-hall.co.uk

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JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH

AT SEWERBY HALL AND GARDENS

Sewerby Hall and Gardens will host an open-air theatrical production of the childrens classic James and the Giant Peach.

The production is being put on by Illyria Theatre for Children on Sunday, 8 August, from 1.30pm to 4pm, as part of the company's 19th open-air tour.

Based on the book by Roald Dahl, and adapted by David Wood OBE, the play follows orphan James who is sent to live with his two terrible aunts.

But when the peach tree in the garden sprouts a single peach which grows and grows and grows, James befriends some very peculiar insects, breaks free from the clutches of his aunts and embarks on the adventure of a lifetime.

Illyria specialise in great storytelling and bright costumes accompanied by live music.

Charges to Sewerby Hall and Gardens apply, but there is no additional charge to attend this production.

For further information, call (01262) 673769 or visit www.sewerby-hall.co.uk

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ARTISTS IN THE PARK SEASON AT

SEWERBY HALL AND GARDENS -

DEBBIE HARDY

Water-based artist Debbie Hardy will take up residency at Sewerby Hall and Gardens from Monday, 9 August to Sunday, 22 August as part of the Artists in the Park season.

The artist will be on site from 11am to 4pm, weekdays, and 10am to 1pm, Saturdays, with workshops on Wednesday, 11 and 18 August.

The workshops will run from approximately 9.30am until 4pm and are priced at £30 per session. The charge includes entry to Sewerby Hall and Gardens, refreshments and a light lunch.

Bookings need to be made in person through the Estate Office as places are limited, with payment made when booking. Attendees are asked to bring their own materials as advised by the artist.

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FAMILY BIKE RIDE FROM BEVERLEY

East Riding of Yorkshire Council is running a family bike ride from Beverley on Wednesday, 4 August.

The ride will set off from Saturday Market at 1.30pm and will head out along Long Lane and through Bentley and Walkington before heading back to Beverley at approximately 4.30pm.

It will be necessary to cross the A1079, but this will be done on foot. All riding will be on cycle paths, bridleways and minor roads.

Participants must wear a correctly fitting cycle helmet and ensure bikes used are roadworthy and in good working condition.

Parents are responsible for their children throughout the ride and must ensure that they ride on the roads in accordance with the guidelines of the Highway Code.

It is recommended that each adult be responsible for no more than two children.

The ride is priced at £2 for adults, who must be accompanied by a child, £1.50 for children and young people under 16 and a family ticket, for up to two adults and three children, costs £6.

For further information or a course application form, call Brian Bate, community sports coach for outdoor pursuits, on 07899994830 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

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PUB WALKS IN THE EAST RIDING

Due to increasing popularity, East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s sport and play development service is planning six pub walks to take place in August, September and October.

All the walks start at 10.30am and participants should wear suitable clothing and footwear and bring waterproofs.

The first walk sets off from The Black Bull, in Pocklington, on Friday, 13 August and should take approximately three hours, covering seven miles.

The next walk commences from The Plough Inn, Allerthorpe, on Friday, 27 August and covers a distance of five miles. The walk is expected to last about two hours and 30 minutes.

In September, there will be a five-and-a-half mile walk from The Wheatsheaf, in Howden. It is estimated that this walk will take about three hours to complete.

The Ship Inn, Sewerby, will be the starting point for a five-mile walk on Friday, 24 September and will take about two hours and 30 minutes.

In October there will be four-and-a-half mile walks from The Fox and Coney, South Cave, on Friday, 8 October and The Tiger Inn, North Newbald, on Friday, 22 October.

Neither East Riding of Yorkshire Council nor the organisers of the walks condone drink driving. If you wish to have a drink after the walk please arrange a designated driver or make alternative transport arrangements.

For further details, please contact Brian Bate, community sports coach for outdoor pursuits, on 07899994830 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
 
Alternatively, visit www.eastriding.gov.uk/events to view all the walks available.

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BLUE GUITARIST JOE BONAMASSA

TO PLAY THE SPA BRIDLINGTON

Following a sell-out gig at The Royal Albert Hall and the release of his tenth solo album, blues-rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa is set to rock The Spa Bridlington.

Last year he was named Best Blues Guitarist by Guitar Player Magazine for the third consecutive year and was awarded Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award at the Classic Rock Roll of Honour Awards.

His tenth solo album, Black Rock follows previous release The Ballad of John Henry which debuted at number one in the billboard blues chart and stayed there for six months.

Joe will play The Spa from 7pm on Monday, 11 October.

Tickets are on sale now costing £30 plus a £3 booking fee.

They are available from The Spa’s box office on (01262) 678258 or online at www.thespabridlington.com 

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EAST RIDING AIMS TO FREEZE COUNCIL TAX

FOR 2011/12

Councillor Stephen Parnaby OBE, leader of the council, has today announced that the council aims to freeze council tax next year, so that people will, in 2011/12, pay no increase in the part of their bill which funds East Riding of Yorkshire Council services. Only unforeseen events, such as major flooding and other extreme weather conditions, or particularly extreme cuts in Government funding, could hinder these plans.

Councillor Parnaby said: “ The council has a track record of delivering high performing, low cost services. During the past year, we have continued to make efficiency savings and restricted spending where possible in preparation for the public spending squeeze which will inevitably lead to reductions in funding from Government.

“As a result of a wide range of initiatives, our services are expected to show savings of £10 million when we have finalised our annual accounts for 2009/10, which is an outstanding achievement in these challenging times.”

“Of these initiatives, it is particularly rewarding to see the impact of the council’s major investment in recycling in recent years that has helped achieve significant ongoing savings in the costs of waste disposal and these could not have been achieved without the help of the residents of the East Riding who are making good use of these new recycling facilities”

“The council is continuing to examine how we can transform working practices to reduce costs so that we can maintain a high standard of service to the public with fewer resources in the future and it is aiming to achieve further ongoing savings over the next few years through its Business Transformation Programme.”

 “So that council tax payers benefit from the savings achieved in 2009/10 and from future planned savings we aim to maintain council tax in 2011/12 at 2010/11 levels.  Although the level of council tax in the East Riding compares favourably with that in most other local authority areas, it is still a significant outgoing for many people, especially pensioners and others on fixed incomes and I think it is only right that people should benefit from the council’s prudent financial management. 

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LOWEST EVER EAST RIDING COUNCIL TAX

AGREED

The council has today set a budget for the next financial year (1st April 2110 to 31st March 2011) of £269 million, which requires a council tax at Band D of £1,212.20, an increase of £17.91 or 1.5 per cent.

The council tax increase is the lowest ever set by East Riding of Yorkshire Council and will mean that the increase for an average household will be less than £16 per year.

Although Band D is used as the benchmark national average council tax charge, more properties in the East Riding fall into the lower bands B and C.  The council tax at these bands will be £942.82 (Band B) and £1,077.51 (Band C).

Councillors had as a basis for discussion a budget prepared by the council’s corporate management team which indicated a 3 per cent rise in council tax.  However, this increase has been halved by taking money from various reserves and budgeting for a half per cent pay rise, which is in line with national expectations, and not from front line services.
 
As in previous years, setting a budget has been a challenging task, with the council needing to balance budget pressures, mainly arising from existing commitments or from legislation, against the requirement to make savings in other areas.  Among the budget pressures are the costs of caring for vulnerable children and adults – in particular the large and growing elderly population in the East Riding – and the need to meet the Target 45 goal for the percentage of waste generated that is recycled by the year 2015.

Schools are funded separately through a specific and ring-fenced government grant.  As part of its existing commitment, the government is ensuring that schools will receive a minimum 2 per cent increase in their budget.  The actual amount for each school is determined by pupil numbers and these are still to be confirmed to calculate individual school budgets.

Councillor Stephen Parnaby OBE, leader of the council, said: “I believe this is a responsible budget based on sound principles and the council’s record of excellent financial management.  It protects essential services while taking account of our residents and their ability to pay.   We all work hard to limit the council tax increase, especially in these difficult economic times, but we face issues that are outside the council’s control.  While the costs of providing services in a large but quite sparsely populated area like the East Riding are high, the level of national grant, which makes up the bulk of the available money, is low compared with other councils – around £100 per person below the national average and more than £300 per pupil below average for schools.

“Together with the inequitable way some £7.7 million of our grant settlement has been ‘clawed back’ by the Government, the result is that East Riding residents are having to pay more than they should and are in effect subsidising other parts of the country that do better through the national funding system.

“Nothwithstanding the financial challenge, I shall be working to deliver a similar or hopefully even lower council tax increase next year.”

Councillor Parnaby also warned that future funding for local government, as for all the public sector, was likely to be significantly reduced as a consequence of the fall-out from the global banking crisis and particularly as a result of the huge government debt.

He said: “Our budget for the forthcoming financial year is protected as part of a three-year government deal for local authorities, but for the future I am in no doubt that there will be reduced levels of public expenditure and we face challenging times.”

An extremely positive outcome of the 2010/11 budget is that the council will be carrying out its biggest ever building or ‘capital’ programme, with £148 million to be spent on improving essential infrastructure like roads, housing and schools.  The programme has been boosted and accelerated by the fiscal stimulus of £100 million approved last year which is resulting in the council  bringing forward many schemes to assist the local economy and support local businesses.

In addition, the council is undertaking a £33 million programme over the next year which will see the first new council homes in the East Riding for many years.  Some 275 properties are to be built and more will follow as a result of additional funding that has been secured.  This building programme will also help support local businesses and especially the construction industry.

The East Riding of Yorkshire Council council tax figures for 2010/11 are set out below (2009/10 in brackets)  to which needs to be added the precept requirements of the Humberside Police and Fire authorities, town/parish council precepts and any special expenses.  The Police and Fire precepts are due to be set in the next few days.  These will be reported to a meeting of the Council on 24 February when the final council tax resolution will be approved.

Band A        £808.13                            (£796.19)
Band B        £942.82                            (£928.89)
Band C        £1,077.51                          (£1,061.59)
Band D        £1,212.20                          (£1,194.29)
Band E        £1,481.58                          (£1,459.69)
Band F        £1,750.96                          (£1,725.09)
Band G        £2,020.33                          (£1,990.48)
Band H        £2,424.40                          (£2,388.58)

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SKIDBY WINDMILL EXHIBITION

A new exhibition is now showing at Skidby Windmill, in the village life gallery, and is likely to last for about four months.

Entitled 'East Yorkshire Windmills,' the exhibition describes the development and subsequent decline of windmills in the region, as well as details of how windmills work and the role of the miller. It's also illustrated with numerous interesting 'now and then' photographs of some of the remaining mills.

Jean Ross, a volunteer with the East Riding Rural Life project based at Skidby Mill, said: "In 1879 there were 113 windmills in East Yorkshire, excluding those in Hull, but by 1921 the number had fallen to just 18.  This exhibition tells you where they were, how they worked and what happened to this once vital part of East Yorkshire life."

Skidby Windmill is open daily 10am - 5pm, with last admission at 4.15pm.

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HOUSEHOLD WASTE RECYCLING PERMITS

East Riding of Yorkshire Council is changing the permit system which allows residents to unload commercial vehicles and trailers on the 10 household waste recycling sites.
From 1 April, six annual permits will be issued per vehicle and no additional permits will be issued during the 12 months.
Residents will have to apply annually to obtain the permits, which apply to trailers over 6x4ft long.
Current permits can be used until 31 July. From that date they will no longer be accepted on the sites.
Leaflets and application forms detailing the new system can be downloaded from www.target45plus.org.uk  and are available at the sites and the council’s customer service centres.
Completed application forms and requested documentation should be posted to Wastewatchers, East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Willerby Depot, Viking Close, Willerby, HU10 6DZ, or can be scanned and emailed to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it   Allow 10 working days for successful applications to be posted out.

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COUNCIL TO LAUNCH BLUE BINS EXCHANGE

East Riding of Yorkshire Council is launching a scheme to give thousands of residents a larger blue bin to reduce recyclable waste going to landfill.
It is projected that an initial 24,000 households will be offered a 240 litre bin in exchange for the current 140 litre bins. Already 11,700, about nine per cent, of East Riding households have the larger 240 litre blue bin The scheme will be rolled out across the council’s area in a phased programme starting from May.
Councillor Symon Fraser, portfolio holder for environmental issues, waste, recycling, strategic highways, planning and rural issues, said: “We have heard our residents’ requests for a bigger blue bin to enable them to recycle even more.
“They are keen recyclers and in the last few years we have increasingly improved the service, adding cans and plastic bottles, putting pressure on the size of the blue bin.”
He added: “If half the households in the East Riding had a larger blue bin, which would keep even more recyclable waste out of the green bin, the council could save over £62,000 a year on landfill costs.”
Funding for the scheme, which will cost £440,000, is from savings made in this years waste disposal budget.
Cllr Fraser, said: “The larger blue bins will help us achieve Target 45+, the campaign by residents and the council to recycle at least 45 per cent by the end of this year.”
The council is also planning to reschedule the blue bin collection days for a number of households to improve the efficiency of the rounds. An announcement will be made later in the year.

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SEASON PASSES AT SEWERBY

2010 Season Passes are now on sale at Sewerby Hall and Gardens.

Priced at £13 for adults and £6.50 for children aged between three and 15 years old they are extremely good value for money.

A family pass is also available costing £38. It is valid for up to two adults and three children.

The passes allow unlimited access to the hall, zoo and gardens throughout the year.

Season pass holders also benefit from 10 per cent discount on items in the hall’s gift shop and menu items at the Clock Tower Tea Rooms.

Golf season passes are also available and cost £85 for adults, £55 for over 60s and £42.50 for children aged between three and 15 years old.

They make unusual gifts for both casual and professional golfers alike.

Application forms for any of these passes are available from the Sewerby Hall and Gardens estate office or via the website at www.sewerby-hall.co.uk

Once completed they can be sent with payment by post.

Anyone renewing a pass who wants to avoid the rush before the season starts can bring their existing pass and payment to the estate office between 9am and 3pm where it will be processed smoothly and quickly.

More information is available on the website or from the estate office on (01262) 673769.

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BEWARE CLAIMS MANAGEMENT FIRMS

OFFERING TO CLEAR YOUR DEBTS

East Riding of Yorkshire Council's trading standards service is warning local people to beware of firms offering to clear their debts.  Low interest rates, wage cuts and freezes, and high house prices have meant that many people are struggling to meet their financial obligations.  The current economic climate has seen a rise in the number of claims management companies (CMCs) targeting cash-strapped families with promises to use legal loopholes to help people escape their debts.  However, these firms may expect payment of several hundred pounds, up front, from those who are already unable to meet their financial commitments and who are unaware of the free advice available from the organisations listed below.

Changes to the Consumer Credit Act 1974 mean that borrowers only need to prove that the relationship between them and their lender is unfair rather than showing that certain criteria have not been met, such as an agreement being incorrectly worded or that the interest rate is extortionate.  If it can be shown that the relationship is unfair, the borrower could make a legal claim against the lender that the agreement is not enforceable. 

Despite this change in the law, what is considered to be unfair has only been partly tested by the courts and there are many cases pending.  Until recently, lenders have preferred to settle out of court rather than be part of a case that sets a legal precedent for any future claims. However, a recent ruling in favour of lenders, by Judge David Waksman in the Manchester High Court, can be seen as a partial victory against indebted credit card customers.  Promises by CMCs that they can use this loophole to help people escape their debts may, therefore, be misleading as a borrower could win or lose a claim and an unsuccessful claim would leave an individual in even more debt.

The Ministry of Justice has highlighted some of the misleading statements made by CMCs, such as claims that 80 per cent of credit agreements were unenforceable or that a CMC could get credit card debt written off “within six weeks”.

Some of the firms that charge up front for this type of service offer to refund the charge if the claim is unsuccessful.  However, in some cases refunds are only offered in relation to disputes over specific types of agreements, such as mortgages or secured loans, and are not offered to clients with other types of debt.  For example, if the small print of the agreement with the CMC excluded refunds for unsuccessful claims regarding credit cards, a client who claimed unsuccessfully in relation to a credit card agreement could be several hundred pounds worse off. 

Colin Briggs, trading standards services manager, said: “I would always recommend anyone who is struggling to pay their debts to seek advice from one of the organisations that can help them, free of charge.  Why pay when you can get help or advice from organisations such as your local citizens advice bureau, the consumer credit counselling service or the national debtline?”.

Cllr Jane Evison, portfolio holder for cultural services, housing and public protection, commented: “I would urge anyone who is worried about debt to seek independent advice from one of the free charities or organisations that provide this type of service.”

Anyone worried about debt can contact one of the following organisations for help:-
*    Citizens Advice Bureau – www.citizensadvice.org.uk, or look in your local telephone book.
*    Consumer Credit Counselling Service –  www.cccs.co.uk, or 0800 138 1111.
*    National Debtline –  www.nationaldebtline.co.uk, or 0808 808 4000.

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TRADING STANDARDS ASK RESIDENTS TO BE AWARE

OF A COUNCIL TAX REFUND SCAM

East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s trading standards service is warning consumers to be extra vigilant about a telephone scam, which tries to trick people into giving out their bank account details in return for a promised council tax rebate.
The scam involves the fraudsters calling residents to tell them they are owed a refund on their council tax. The fraudsters are very convincing saying they are ringing from the council or a central claims court in London, and seem to already know a number of personal details about the resident, lulling them into a false sense of trust. Crucially however, they ask for the resident’s bank account or card details in order for the money to be credited to their account.
The scam appears to be operating over a large part of the UK and currently South Buckinghamshire, Northumberland, Fareham, Portsmouth, North Tyneside, Stafford as well as the East Riding have been targeted.
The scam has been publicised in regional and national newspapers And Consumer Direct, the regional consumer advice line, has also been made aware of the scam.
East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s council tax department would like to make it very clear that they do not operate in this way. The council may adjust your account to incorporate any refund or issue a cheque but it is likely that there would have been on-going correspondence between the council and the residents before any refund was agreed.
Colin Briggs, trading standards services manager at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said “Anyone who is due a refund on their council tax bill will be well aware of it as they will have been in contact with either the council or the valuation office agency.
“If you receive an unexpected call concerning council tax it is almost certain to come from someone who wishes to commit fraud against you.”
Councillor Jane Evison, portfolio holder for cultural services, housing and public protection, said: “Members of the public must not give out any bank account or credit card details to any unsolicited telephone calls that ask for credit card or bank account numbers. The only reason they are asking you for this is to enable them to take your own money.”
Any Yorkshire and the Humber residents who would like to report this scam or any other consumer matter can contact Consumer Direct on 08454 040506 in the first instance.
Any East Riding residents who requires specific advice about their council tax bill should contact East Riding Of Yorkshire Council’s customer service centres, on (01482) 393939.


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DON'T BE CAUGHT OUT BY FAKE INVOICES

East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s trading standards service is warning businesses and schools to be aware of fake invoices.
A new scam has come to light which involves invoices that appear to have come from Yellow Pages and requiring a payment of £499 to be listed on the online directory for one year. 
These invoices have not come from the Yell Group PLC or Yell Limited and have not been sent on their behalf.
The council’s trading standards services is asking businesses to check the invoices they receive carefully before paying and if in doubt about such an invoice for a listing in Yellow Pages, do not use the contact details on the invoice. 
Businesses can find the correct contact details for Yell Limited customer services by going to their website: www.yell.com Colin Briggs, trading standards services manager, said: “It is important that businesses take care to avoid being ripped off.  Make sure you have a system in place that checks the invoices you receive.”
Councillor Jane Evison, portfolio holder for cultural services, housing and public protection, said: “In a recession businesses can not afford to lose money to such scams.  Please be vigilant.”
Anyone who thinks they may have been victim to a fake invoice should call Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.


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TRADING STANDARDS WARNING OVER CHAIN GIFT SCHEMES

East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s trading standards service is warning residents that an illegal get rich quick scheme has arrived in the area.

The scheme starts by inviting potential “investors” to an event, often in an organiser’s home, where it is explain how an “investment” of £3,000 can give a return of £23,000. 

Participants are told that all they have to do is pay £3,000 to a person above them in the scheme and in turn they have to introduce two new “investors” and wait for the eventual payout of £24,000 in total from eight other “investors.” 

An organiser in the scheme will take £1,000 from this total and a number of reasons have been given for this, which have included donations to charities.  The organisers of the scheme claim it is legal and safe and that it can only bring benefits.

However, the people taking part are signing up to a pyramid promotional scheme sometimes called a chain gift scheme. 

Participation in such a scheme, where the payout comes wholly or mainly from introducing others to participate is illegal under the Gambling Act 2005. This is also a banned commercial practice under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. 

Anyone establishing, organising or promoting such a scheme is committing a criminal offence.  This means that if residents are persuaded to participate and introduce others to join up, they also may be breaking the law.
 
For every person who manages to get a payout of £23,000, eight people have to have paid in £3,000 each. 

For each of these eight people to get the payout, 64 new participants are required and for the next round of payouts 512 new participants will have to be recruited. 

When such schemes fail the number of losers is always much larger than the number of winners.  Families, friendships and even whole communities can be damaged.  There is no legal way to recover money lost after joining these schemes.

A spokesman for East Riding of Yorkshire Council said: “In times of recession and financial uncertainty, consumers may be more likely to find chain gift schemes attractive investments.  However, they must be aware that the danger of losing all the money they invest is very real.

“These schemes require an infinite supply of new investors, which is completely unrealistic.  Any scheme must collapse eventually and most participants will lose their money.  Chain gift schemes are not a safe way to invest as the risk of losing money is so high. 

“It is essential that consumers seek professional financial advice before deciding on any investment.”

Consumers looking for independent financial advice can contact the Financial Services Authority on 0300 500 5000 to check that a financial advisor is authorised. 

Anyone who would like general consumer advice can contact Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.

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ELVIS WORLD CUP QUALIFIER IN BRIDLINGTON

Sequins, jumpsuits and quiffs will descend upon Bridlington when the town holds the English qualifier for the Elvis World Cup during a three day Elvis Weekender from 19-21 February.

The winner of the event at The Spa Bridlington will represent England at The World Cup Final in Cardiff on 4 July, 2010.

Andrew Aldis, general manager of The Spa said: “We are very excited to have been chosen for this fantastic event.  The whole weekend sounds like it is going to be fun from beginning to end.  We hope that Bridlington and the region will embrace this festival.”

The team behind this event also runs The Porthcawl Elvis Festival which, over the past seven years has grown to be the biggest Elvis festival in the world. Last year’s event attracted 30,000 people to the small Welsh town.

Peter Phillips, who heads the team running the event said: “We’ve been looking for a town that has the same characteristics to Porthcawl, where we can establish a similar festival at a different time of the year. Bridlington ticked all the boxes and we’re really excited about working with The Spa and the town to repeat our success in Porthcawl.”

Weekend tickets are available along with individual performance prices from The Spa’s box office on (01262) 678258.

TIME LIMITED CALL FOR PROJECTS

The Coast, Wolds, Wetlands and Waterways LEADER funding  programme was launched in April earlier this year. The area covers most of the rural East Riding of Yorkshire as well as parts of Ryedale and Scarborough.

This £2.811 million funding programme from the Rural Development Programme for England funding runs from 2007 – 2013. Of the £500,000 of funding available this year, there is still some funding that is yet to be allocated and spent by the end of February 2010.

If you have a project that meets the programme’s key theme of rural heritage & culture linked, where appropriate, to service provision, with business growth and opportunities as cross cutting themes, and can help to deliver the programme of activities ( see our website www.ruralprogrammeseastyorkshire.co.uk/rdpe for more information on eligibility and the programmes of activity), please complete an expression of interest form, also available from the website.

The project idea will be assessed and, if eligible, you will be invited to complete an application form and project business plan.

This call for projects is for ones that can complete spend by the end of February 2010 and the timescales for submission are:

Expressions of interest to be submitted as soon as possible and by 30th October 2009 at the latest and, if eligible, application forms along with project business plans to be submitted as soon as possible, but the absolute deadline is Monday, 9th November 2009.

           
ISSUED BY EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE COUNCIL ON BEHALF OF THE COAST, WOLDS, WETLANDS AND WATERWAYS LEADER FUNDING PROGRAMME

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ERCAS ACCREDITIATION

Congratulations to the sports clubs who have achieved the East Riding Club Accreditation Scheme (Ercas) award recently.

Costello FC, Skidby Lakes Golf Club and Newport Cricket Club have all achieved level one accreditation.

Congratulations also go to Beverley Lifesaving Club who have renewed their level one accreditation, Goole Netball Club, Goole Town Cricket Club, Bridlington Swimming Club and Hull and East Riding Karate Academy who have successfully renewed their level two accreditation.

The aim of the scheme is to promote a quality club infrastructure focusing on key areas such as child protection and implementing health and safety measures. A further requirement for all junior clubs is to have qualified coaches and CRB police cleared volunteers.

For further information on the accredited clubs please visit www.eastridingsportandplay.org and click on ‘club development ’ then ‘accreditation’ or for information on the Ercas scheme please contact Adam Toes, community recreation officer, on (01482) 392524 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

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£200,000 PLAY PARK PLANNED FOR HALTEMPRICE

Investment of £200,000 in an East Riding play park will see it completely refurbished.

Haltemprice play area will be part of a planned network of “destination” play parks across the East Riding as funding from the Department for Children, Schools and Families will be used to build an exciting area for all ages, with creative and adventurous equipment and features.

Children and young people throughout the East Riding have been actively involved in developing the new play area. There will be a particular focus on accessibility to all children and young people being able to enjoy creative, challenging play experiences.

It is hoped that the refurbishment will be complete before the end of the school summer holidays.

Councillor Jane Evison, portfolio holder for cultural services, housing and public protection, said: "This council is working to create a network of play-parks which will inspire children to spend more time outdoors and give them the chance to see what their imaginations can come up with when they have first-rate equipment to play on.

"Playing outdoors in a safe environment with other children is not only vital to a child’s development of social skills, it will also encourage them to live healthier more active lifestyles.

"The network of play areas will make a real difference to children throughout the East Riding."

Exciting designs for the site have been drawn up following extensive consultation and will be back out for consultation in early June.

People of all ages are urged to visit Haltemprice Leisure Centre anytime after the 5 June to see the designs or come on Thursday 11 June from 4pm – 7.30pm or Friday 12 June from 9am – 12 noon and speak to a pathfinder project officer.

Bernie Clarke, play and early years projects officer, said: "It is hoped that after consulting with the local children and residents we can install a play area that will be of huge benefit to all ages and meet the needs of the local community and the wider east riding area."

If you have any questions about the Haltemprice play area or you would like to share your views on how you think the play area could be improved you can contact Bernie Clarke, play and early years officer on (01482) 392533 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it


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BMX TRACK NOW OPEN AT

KING GEORGE V PLAYING FIELDS,

COTTINGHAM

Residents of Cottingham are flocking to the King George V playing fields after the completion of two new, state-of-the-art facilities. After several years of dedicated hard work, the ‘Friends of KGV’, working in partnership with East Riding of Yorkshire Council, are celebrating the opening of a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) and a dirt BMX track, as part of the ongoing refurbishment of these popular historic playing fields.

The 36 jump BMX track is the result of several years’ continuous hard work from a group of local lads and the ‘Friends of KGV.’ The track, designed by local enthusiast Graham Taylor, provides a range of challenges for all abilities, incorporating ‘Table Tops’, ‘Gap Jumps’ and a number of ‘Berms.’

Graham said : “We wanted to create a track which would enable as many people as possible to go out and enjoy the sport. The track has been divided into four areas -  expert, highly experienced, novice and junior -  with jumps ranging from two metres high to small moundings."

The enclosed space of the MUGA has been specially designed with a non-slip surface to cater for a range of sports including three tennis courts, football, netball and basket ball. Floodlighting has been installed to enable greater usage in the winter months.

Gary Cooper, chairman of the Friends of KGV, said: “We are over the moon to see the completion of this project. The council, Friends and the BMX Group have raised approximately £60,000 to enable the construction of these two projects. In July 2007, we received the news that Biffaward Waste Services had awarded us a grant of £50,000, along with £10,000 received from the Youth Opportunities Fund.  This was the last piece in the financial jigsaw and enabled us to start construction.”

Councillor Jane Evison, East Riding of Yorkshire Council portfolio holder for cultural services, said: “The council is delighted to see the completion of this scheme.  The new facilities provide a wider range of opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to be more active and to try out new and exciting sports. This project is designed to have long-term social and health benefits and is a good example of what the local community and the council can achieve by working together.”

The council is also pleased to announce that the old Cottingham Playsport building is currently being redesigned.  It is hoped to begin construction in the near future.  Precise dates for a start to the work depend on the outcome of  discussions with potential funding partners. 

Further discussions are also taking place as to the future management of the site.  East Riding of Yorkshire Council is keen to work with local groups to establish a management structure to take the facility forward. 

Gary Cooper, Chairman of the Friends of KGV, said:  “The idea is to put the facility at the heart of the community and establish a management structure with the long- term ability to attract external funding. 

“We all hope that in this way we shall be able to continue building on the substantial improvements that have been made at KGV.”

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TRADING STANDARDS URGES


EXTREME CAUTION OVER EMAILS

East Riding Of Yorkshire Council Trading Standards is advising the public to be extremely cautious if they receive unsolicited emails which appear in their inbox making them offers of employment. This advice is being issued following the receipt of information from the public which shows that East Riding residents have started to receive emails, often from outside the UK which appear to make attractive job offers in return for personal details such as full name, address and date of birth.
Colin Briggs, trading standards services manager, East Riding Of Yorkshire Council said: "Legitimate, honest businesses never recruit staff by sending out unsolicited emails. I would advise anyone who receives such an email to ignore it and delete it from their computer immediately.
"Individuals and organisations who ask for personal information in this way often wish to steal your identity to enable them to commit fraud at your expense."
Councillor Jane Evison, portfolio holder for public protection said: "In the present economic conditions people are obviously finding it harder to find work and it appears the fraudsters know this.
"I would advise anyone receiving such an e mail to ask themselves why do these people what my personal information? If the offer seems too good to be true it usually is.
"Under no circumstances should people reply to this type of email."
Residents who are concerned that they may have responded to this type of email and would like further advice should ring Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.


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COUNCILLORS GIVE FULL SUPPORT TO PCSOs

East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s safer and stronger communities overview and scrutiny committee has given its full backing to the work of police community support officers (PCSOs) who are out and about in numbers in local communities doing valuable work and enhancing the effectiveness of policing.

PCSOs came in as a result of the Police Reform Act 2002 and there are now 80 of them in the East Riding, all funded locally.  Their main purpose is to contribute to neighbourhood policing through a highly visible patrol with the intention of reassuring the public, increasing orderliness in public places and being accessible to communities and partner agencies working at a local level.

At its meeting last month, the committee heard a detailed presentation on the work of PCSOs from Chief Inspector Derek Shepherd of Humberside Police.

The chief inspector described how PCSOs are fulfilling an important role in neighbourhood policing and one that supported and enhanced the work of the Humberside Police force.  In particular, PCSOs have had a significant impact in dealing with low level crime and the kind of anti-social issues that the police hitherto had not been able to address sufficiently within existing resources.

PCSOs are also valuable as a highly visible presence and are seen as accessible and able to relate well to people in local communities including the younger generation.

One significant aspect is a growing mutual respect between PCSOs and young people; a positive relationship which was applauded by the committee. 

The committee received a summary of the specific issues PCSOs had been dealing with in different parts of the East Riding, which in many cases had resulted in successful outcomes that promoted community well-being.

Councillor Richard Stead, chairman of the safer and stronger communities overview and scrutiny committee, said: “The chief inspector’s comprehensive presentation gave us much valuable information and demonstrated that PCSOs are now an integral part of policing and making an excellent contribution in tackling lower level crime and disorder and supporting local communities.  The committee was especially pleased to hear of the reciprocal respect being shown between the PCSOs and young people.

“My colleagues and I were unanimous in agreeing that we all held the PCSOs assigned to our individual wards in the highest regard.  The efficiency, dedication, enthusiasm and willingness to help members of the community are outstanding. 

"PCSOs are helping to build safer and stronger communities, which is the core aim of this committee, and I commend Humberside Police and other agencies involved for the way in which PCSOs have been introduced and deployed to strengthen policing throughout the East Riding.”


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SIMPLY THE BEST - TREASURE HOUSE'S ARCHIVES AND

  TRADING STANDARDS WARN OF EMAIL SCAM

East Riding Of Yorkshire Council Trading Standards Service is warning people to be aware of emails that appear to be from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) informing you that you are due a tax refund. 
HMRC do not send notifications of a tax rebate by email and those receiving these emails should be aware it is a scam to steal your identity and to get control of your credit card.
The emails concerned give the appearance that they are from HMRC and attempt to convince the recipient that they are genuine by saying that they are owed money as a result of tax recalculation. 
People are told that all they need to do to get the money is to fill in the attached form on screen and press the “submit form” button.
Trading Standards are advising anyone who receives such an email to delete it straight away and to also make sure it is deleted from their email trash bin.
It is important not to open the attachment as it contains codes that may damage your computer.
The form which would be displayed asks for personal information which would allow your identity to be stolen .  On top the email asks for credit card details, including the three digit security code and PIN number.  This information would allow the conmen full information about and access to your bank account.
Colin Briggs, trading standards services manager, said: “People are advised never to give out their personal details in unsolicited emails such as this. After all if the Inland Revenue owes you a tax rebate they already know who you are and can send you the cheque in the post.”
Councillor Jane Evison, portfolio holder for cultural services, housing and public protection, said: “Members of the public must not reply to any unsolicited email or telephone calls asking for their credit card details or bank account number. The only reason they are asking you for this is to enable them to take your money.”
If you think you have received or been victim to a hoax email, please call Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.
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LANDLORDS URGED TO PROTECT

THEIR TENANTS AGAIMST DANGERS OF

CARBON MONOXIDE

East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s private sector housing team is warning of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning and encouraging private landlords to invest in a cheap but effective alarm to protect their tenants.

Carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous gas that has no colour, taste or smell. It can be released by fuel burning appliances, such as stoves, fires, boilers and water heaters, that have been incorrectly fitted, badly repaired or poorly maintained, or if flues, chimneys or vents are blocked.

Each year, there are around 30 deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning in the UK and many more people suffer health problems due to carbon monoxide exposure, but landlords can protect their tenants against the risks by installing an audible alarm. These cost as little as £15 and can be bought from DIY stores and supermarkets.

Here a few tips for both landlords, their tenants and private home owners on how to stay safe:
*    When you buy a carbon monoxide alarm, you should check that it meets current European safety standards (look for alarms marked with the ‘EN50291' standard).
*    When putting an alarm in your home it’s best to follow the instructions but, if you can’t find them, you should position the alarm at head height in a central location, such as the hallway or landing.
*    As with smoke alarms, test your carbon monoxide alarm regularly with the test button, and replace the batteries annually or when the low battery signal sounds.
*    Do not place the alarm in a cupboard, behind furniture, or near an outside door or ventilation.
*    Do not place alarms next to fires, boilers, cookers or heaters; the alarm should be at least one metre away from any of these appliances.
*    Do not place an alarm in an area of high condensation and steam, such as a bathroom or kitchen, or close to sources of steam and condensation.
*    You should never ignore a carbon monoxide alarm; check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure you can recognise the sound emitted when carbon monoxide is present (as well as the low battery signal).
*    If the alarm sounds, call the relevant fuel advice line for help - Gas Emergency Service (24 hours) 0800 111 999; Solid Fuel Advice Line 0845 601 4406; or Oil (OFTEC) 0845 658 5080. Seek medical advice urgently if anyone is feeling unwell.

Sarah Horner, the council’s landlord liaison officer, said: “We’re supporting the national ‘Be alarmed’ campaign, which aims to raise awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning and encourage as many people as possible to fit alarms in their homes.

“We want to make private landlords aware of the simple steps that they can take to protect their tenants. When renting a property, tenants should check with their landlord that the property has been fitted with a carbon monoxide alarm, as well as making sure they know where it’s located and what sound it makes when carbon monoxide is present. Investing just £15 or £20 in one of these simple devices could genuinely make the difference between life and death.”

For more information about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning and how to protect yourself or your tenants, visit www.co-bealarmed.co.uk

You can also contact the private sector housing team for advice and information on 01482 396301 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Part of the private sector housing team’s role is to safeguard the well being of tenants of private rented accommodation in the East Riding by working closely with landlords to raise the standard of accommodation.


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