Croydon Council defends graveyard charges
Croydon Council is under fire for charging muslims 20% less for graves than people of other religions.
According to the Telegraph today, a council owned graveyard is charging just under two thousand four hundred pounds for muslims and just under 3 thousand pounds for anyone else.
The paper quotes the authority as saying that it is because muslim graves only allow one person to be buried in a spot whereas other graves can have multiple people.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 8:07 pm
Cost cutting may affect Police pay
There could be a big shake up in the way the Met Police officers are paid and work.
It’s all in an effort to cut costs.
There could be an end to some overtime payments and officers called in on days off could lose extra benefits.
The Association of Chief Police officers say policing is a 24/7 job and the current rules need to change.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 7:38 pm
Burst water main Kingston
Thames water have been working on a burst water main in Kingston for most of the day.
The pipe burst earlier today on London Road, just outside the Grammar School.
Some homes had their supplies cut off and were given the opportunity to collect bottled water from a number of locations.
Water has now been re-routed from other areas so affected properties should be back to normal.
Work to fix the problem will continue this evening.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 7:36 pm
Memorial bench to victims of Staines air crash is vandalised
A memorial bench to those who died in the 1972 Staines air crash has been vandalised.
The wooden bench in Moormede Park has been damaged before, and Spelthorne Council has said they’re now considering a more resilient structure.
The seat commemorated the lives of more than a hundred people who died after a plane crashed just minutes after taking off from Heathrow.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 7:35 pm
Kingston GP cycles to Paris
A team of GP’s from London have completed their latest challenge, cycling from London to Paris.
Over seven hundred participants rode more than 300 miles over four days.
Raising money for Action Medical Research, Team GP set off from Croydon on Wednesday.
We spoke to Dr. Rob Hicks, who works at Kingston Hospital shortly after arriving in Paris.
Richmond's residents have the opportunity to see Council's accounts
People living in Richmond will have the opportunity to see the way the Council spends public money over the next month.
Until the 18th August, residents can book an appointment to see the Council’s annual accounts up to the end of March 2010.
Among other documents, residents will be able to see expenses claims for Council members.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:17 pm
Benefit cheat in Claygate sentenced to a community penalty order
A benefit cheat in Claygate has been caught.
Maria Fernanda Abreu- Ferro failed to tell the Council about a change in her circumstances.
She was overpaid more than 5 thousand pounds in income support and housing and Council tax benefit.
She was sentenced to a community penalty order and must do 40 hours unpaid work.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:16 pm
New cycle hire scheme in London
Londoners can now sign up to a new cycle scheme.
People will be able to hire bikes from hundreds of locations across central London from next Friday.
Those who want to hire bikes within the first month will need to register as a member on the tfl website.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:15 pm
Pegasus school bus service runs for last time today
A popular school bus service in Surrey will run for the last time today.
The Pegasus service is being axed - leaving 800 primary school pupils across parts of Surrey including Dorking without a ride to school.
Surrey County council decided to cut the 5- thousand pound a day service, saying they simply can't afford to run it anymore.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:14 pm
Wandsworth Council welcome a new report for improved local rail links at Heathrow
Wandsworth council has welcomed a new report which calls for better and more integrated local rail connections at Heathrow.
But the authority has repeated its concerns about the impact of a direct high speed link.
Wandsworth is a member of the 2M Group which unveiled its own plans for a ‘compass point’ network of local rail connections around Heathrow.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:12 pm
Explosion at a house in Surrey
A man’s been taken to hospital following an explosion at a house in Surrey.
Police say the man suffered non-life threatening injuries in the incident at a property in Stoughton last night.
The force said the blast was not suspicious and was caused by a kitchen fire which involved an aerosol can.
Nearby buildings were evacuated.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:11 pm
Chelsea play Ajax this evening in a pre-season match
Chelsea are in pre-season action again this evening, when they take on Ajax.
Yesterday the Dutch team’s boss Martin Jol revealed he’d turned down the chance to take over as Fulham boss.
Last night the Cottagers were held to a 2-2 draw in their friendly with Swedish club Halmstad.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:08 pm
Lee Clark rumoured to be among Fulham's targets to replace Hodgson
Former fan's favourite Lee Clark is confident Fulham will find the best man for the manager's job at Craven Cottage.
Clark is rumoured to be among the club's targets to replace Roy Hodgson.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:03 pm
Chelsea face pre-season injury worries
Premier League champions Chelsea have another pre-season injury worry.
Defender Alex is set to be out for a month after picking up a thigh injury in training.
Blues goalkeeper Petr Cech is also struggling with a calf problem after an injury in training on Tuesday.
He’ll be out for a month.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:27 am
Thursday, 22 July 2010
Jol turns down Fulham manager's job
Martin Jol has turned down the Fulham manager’s job.
The current Ajax coach was first choice to replace Roy Hodgson at Craven Cottage.
But Jol told the Dutch club’s website that he couldn’t “bring himself to leave”.
US coach Bob Bradley, Cardiff’s Dave Jones, Gianfranco Zola and his former Chelsea team mate Mark Hughes are the other candidates.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:03 pm
Chelsea confident they have enough goalkeeping cover
Chelsea are confident they have enough goalkeeping cover after first choice Petr Cech was ruled out for a month.
Scans revealed the damage after he suffered a tear in his right calf in training on Tuesday.
Hilario and Ross Turnbull have both had experience at deputising for Cech, with the Portuguese stopper likely to get the nod.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:00 pm
The Electoral Commission to carry out a review of MP Zac Goldsmith's electoral expenses
The Electoral Commission's has confirmed it is carrying out a review into the electoral expenses of the MP for richmond Park.
Zac Goldsmith is under investigation following a TV report but the MP says he welcomes the review saying he followed the rules very carefully.
The review could take up to 90 days.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:56 pm
Managerless Fulham play in a pre-season friendly tonight in Sweden
Managerless Fulham travel to Sweden for a pre-season friendly tonight.
They’re playing Halmstad, who currently lie mid-table in the Swedish league.
It should be a tough test for the Cottagers with the home side half way through their domestic season.
Next up on their tour of the country is a clash with second placed Malmo FF on Tuesday night.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:49 pm
Man jailed for aggravated vehicle taking
A man from Addlestone who stole a car, drove it the wrong way around a one way system and rammed a police car has been jailed.
27-year-old Sam Smith stole a Land Rover from a house in Bramley and went the wrong way round Guildford.
He then rammed a police car and crashed into the gates of Surrey Police headquarters.
He's pleaded guilty to aggravated vehicle taking and has been sentenced to a year in prison.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:45 pm
Woman rescued from River Mole
A woman’s been rescued from the River Mole in Walton.
Police were called in the early hours of this morning.
The woman in her fifties is now is now in a stable condition in hospital after being treated for hypothermia.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:26 pm
Body found at car park in Feltham
A man’s body has been found in a pub car park in Feltham.
The discovery was made in a vehicle in Hanworth Road at the junction with Harlington Road East earlier.
The area’s been sealed off as police carry out investigations.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:25 pm
Prisoner seeks damages after he was banned from smoking at High Down in Sutton
A prisoner at High Down in Sutton is seeking damages after he was banned from smoking after swearing at staff.
Lawyers acting for Jack Foster claim his human rights were breached by subjecting him to cruel and unusual punishment.
They are arguing as a habitual smoker he should have had patches or gum to stop his cravings.
The Judge has adjourned the case so more information could be gathered.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:03 pm
Blue Badge Holders around Epsom and Ewell will soon have to pay to park
People with disabilities will soon have to pay to park around Epsom and Ewell.
The Council’s decided to introduce the charges in its car parks for blue badge holders in a bid to help meet it’s budget targets.
Disabled drivers will get one hour free as part of the new scheme which is expected to be brought in next month.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:00 pm
Olympic rowing Gold medallist fractures skull after being thrown off his bike in America
Olympic rowing Gold medallist James Cracknell is being treated for a fractured skull after a cycling accident in America.
The Weybridge star was thrown from his bike after being hit from behind by a truck in Arizona.
He's said to be making "good progress".
Cracknell was filming for the Discovery Channel.
He’s due to attempt to set a new world record cycling from Canada to Mexico next month.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 2:55 pm
Abducted father-of-three from Surrey believed to be dead
Police say a father-of-three from Surrey who was abducted in Worcestershire is now believed to be dead.
It’s thought Jesse Richards was assaulted and bundled into a white van.
Officers are asking for information from anyone, including criminals, to help recover his body.
The scrap metal dealer was 41 at the time he went missing last July.
Nine men have been arrested and bailed in connection with the investigation.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 2:53 pm
Liverpool complete signing of Joe Cole on a four year contract
Liverpool have completed the signing of Joe Cole on a four-year contract after the midfielder passed his medical.
He agreed personal terms on Monday after being released by Chelsea at the end of last season and then flew to the club's training camp in Switzerland.
Contrary to reports, the England international has been allocated the number 10 shirt.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:17 pm
Residents in Hinchley Wood protest about closure of a footbridge
A protest was staged in Hinchley Wood last night.
About 30 people gathered protesting about the closure of a footbridge.
They are angry about Elmbridge Council’s plans to demolish it.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:09 pm
Chris Robshaw announced as new Harlequins Captain
Chris Robshaw has been announced as the new Harlequins Captain.
He received the title of Guinness Premiership Player of the season and played in the England Saxons 2008 squad.
The 24-year-old will be taking over from Will Skinner, who has been Captain for three years.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:07 pm
London economy finds itself in a stronger position
The economy in London continued to grow slowly in the second quarter of the year.
That’s according to stats by the London Chamber of Commerce.
It says the capital is in a much stronger position compared to a year ago.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:05 pm
Father and daughter from Surrey accused of selling millions of pounds worth of military hardware to Iraq
An international arms dealer and his daughter have appeared in court accused of illegally selling millions of pounds worth of military hardware to Iraq.
It’s alleged 70-year-old Praidon Darmoo and 39-year-old Elizabeth Brown from Surrey repeatedly breached UN sanctions to ship high-tech weaponry to Iraq in the aftermath of the 2003 invasion.
It’s claimed father and daughter were involved in setting up arms trades without a license.
Both will re-appear in court in October.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:02 pm
Surrey leading day three of their Championship match with Northamptonshire
Surrey go into day three of their Championship match with Northamptonshire today leading by 446 runs.
The Lions bowlers reduced the visitors to 174 for 8 by the close of play yesterday.
Earlier, Mark Ramprakash’s 248 helped Surrey post 620 for 7.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:58 am
New high speed rail link not to include connection to Heathrow
A new high speed rail link between London and Birmingham shouldn’t include a connection to Heathrow.
That's the conclusion of a report by a Tory peer commissioned to review options to improve links between the cities.
Despite the governments aim to reduce the dependency on air travel, Lord Mawhinney says connecting to the airport would cost an extra 4 billion pounds and wouldn’t be worth it.
The new rail link would have high speed trains running up to 250 miles per hour.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:57 am
Conservative MP Zac Goldsmith sat on wrong benches
Richmond Parks MP may be in the news over claims about his election expenses but here’s one mistake he definitely did make.
Zac Goldsmith entered Scottish Questions yesterday morning and sat on the wrong benches.
A Labour MP tactfully pointed out his mistake and he’s said to have crossed the house immediately with a look of horror on his face.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:53 am
Hounslow councillors make cuts to their expenses
Councillors in Hounslow have agreed an immediate cut in their expenses.
While they don’t get paid, they do get allowances to help pay for paper work and helping constituents. That money will be cut by 5%.
The drop will mean the area saves around 156 thousand pounds a year.
It’s all part of the council's efforts to cope with a funding deal from the government, which will see them getting 5 million pounds less than expected.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:49 am
Wednesday, 21 July 2010
Residents to have their say in the future of Nine Elms
Wandsworth Council is inviting local residents to attend information evenings on the future of Nine Elms.
Leading councillors and officers will be there to ask questions on the future of London’s largest, regeneration opportunity.
The area could see the development of up to 16,000 new houses and the creation of around 25,000 new jobs.
The meetings are taking at the Rose Community Clubroom on 27th July and All Saints Church on 28th.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:20 pm
Robin Hood Junior School no longer in 'special measures'
Robin Hood Junior School in Sutton is no longer in ‘special measures’ after a visit from Ofsted last month.
The school has shown many improvements since the school was placed under scrutiny in September 2009.
Although there is room for development, the report explains how the ‘pupils enjoy coming to school.’
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:18 pm
Chelsea's goalkeeper set to miss start of the new Premier League season
Chelsea have been dealt an injury blow on the eve of the season.
Goalkeeper Petr Cech is set to miss the start of the new Premier League season after tearing a calf muscle in training.
He's expected to be out for a month which includes the Community Shield against Manchester United on August the 8th.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:16 pm
Flat fire in Streatham
An investigation’s underway after a flat fire in Streatham.
The blaze broke out in Babington Road yesterday morning.
A flat on the first floor and the roof were badly damaged.
Meanwhile 4 people were evacuated from properties in Putney after two sheds in Pleasance Road caught fire.
A gas cylinder was found and a temporary hazard zone was set up around the affected area.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:15 pm
Surrey Council aim to get more residents online by 2012
Surrey County Council is making a new pledge.
It wants to get 10 thousand more residents online by 2012.
It’s part of a national project to promote the benefits of the internet.
Surrey’s one of the first local authorities to sign up to Race Online 2012.
It’s understood to be the only one to have set a target number.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:11 pm
Laser pen shone at an aircraft over Staines
Police are investigating after a laser pen was shone at an aircraft over Staines.
On Saturday an Australian airlines plane had just taken off from Heathrow when the crew reported the problem.
It’s believed the laser was shone from a location around the Ashford Road area of Staines.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:03 pm
Police ask motorists to help catch illegal drivers
Motorists across South West London are being asked to help police catch illegal drivers.
There’s a series of operations going on across the area.
It’s targeting drivers who don’t have insurance, MOT’s, or who are over the drink drive limit.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:02 pm
People urged to continue shopping on the Upper Richmond Road
Wandsworth Council is urging people to keep shopping on the Upper Richmond Road.
Lengthy roadworks are ongoing in the area as engineers work to replace a major gas main.
Work’s expected to be finished by October.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:00 pm
Ajax agree to open talks with Fulham over Martin Jol
It's understand Ajax have finally agreed to open talks with Fulham over Martin Jol.
The two clubs are holding discussions in Amsterdam.
Ajax had been unwilling to talk about a compensation deal - but speaking last night, Jol made it clear he isn't happy at his current club.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:58 pm
Plans to build a new Tesco store in Ashstead
A public inquiry has begun into plans to build a new Tesco store in Ashstead.
The supermarket giant wants to build a large store and housing on the site of a former petrol station.
Mole Valley District Council has turned down two separate plans but the supermarket appealed.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:55 pm
Armed robbery at a travel agents in Wallington
Flying Squad detectives are appealing for witnesses after an armed robbery at a travel agents in Wallington.
Two men grabbed British and foreign currency from Thomson’s after pulling a handgun on staff.
As they fled the scene, at just after 4 on Saturday afternoon, the red security dye was triggered.
This caused red smoke to come from the trousers of one of the suspects as he walked across Wallington Square.
Both suspects are black, in their 20’s and around 6 foot tall.
One was wearing a navy blue Nike jacket and light blue jeans, the other had a baby blue polo shirt and baseball cap.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:53 pm
Epsom bosses reassure JLS fans
Bosses at Epsom Downs are reassuring JLS fans ahead of tomorrow night’s concert.
The popular boy band will take to the stage as part of Epsom Live - a series of racing and live music events.
There had been concerns from parents about security following other JLS gigs.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:49 pm
Tuesday, 20 July 2010
New Ricky Gervais show filmed in Sutton
Filming for a new comedy series is being shot in Sutton High street.
Phone shop is edited by Ricky Gervais and is a sitcom about the lives of employees at the store.
Shooting started yesterday and will run through until the end of August.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:54 pm
Putney band nominated for the Mercury
Putney’s The xx have emerged as favourites to win the Mercury Prize after the nominations were announced today.
The trio met at Elliott School which has produced other musical allumni such as Hot Chip and Fleetwood Mac’s Peter Green.
The winner of the 20 thousand pound prize will be announced in September.
Guitarist Oliver Sims says the nomination was a real surprise
Sutton to be one of the Government's 'Big Society Communities'
Sutton is to be one of the coalitions ‘Big Society Communities’.
The borough is well known for its active voluntary sector and will be working with the Government on four key projects.
Including, greener travel choices, more neighbourhood groups and healthier communities at a lower cost.
With help from the Government, local people will be encouraged to get involved in the decisions that affect their area.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:50 pm
Lewis Hamilton won't be favoured
McLaren won’t favour Lewis Hamilton over Jenson Button.
That’s the message from team boss Martin Whitmarsh.
Hamilton’s leading the championship from his Woking team-mate at the season's halfway point.
The next race is on Sunday in Germany.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:50 pm
New Malden commemorates the blitz
This September is the 70th anniversary of the ‘Malden Blitz’.
In 1940 more than eighty civillians were killed in New Malden, the first area in London to be hit by German bombs.
A commemorative service is being held in September to mark the occasion and any memorabillia from the time is needed.
Reverend Stephen Kuhrt told us what kind of things they’re after.
To donate any items contact Armen Lloyd on info@maldenblitz.co.uk
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:44 pm
Teddington man guilty of abuse
A former teacher from Teddington has been found guilty of sexually assaulting two boys.
65 year old Jeff Morrell was convicted of abusing two boys aged 14 and 15 between 1973 and 1983.
Both boys said the attacks happened when they were in detention.
The abuse didn’t come to light for more than 30 years after one of the men told his family.
Morrell will be sentenced in August.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:13 pm
There has been an "alarming decline" in sparrows in London.
That’s according to the RSPB.
Its annual survey of the population of breeding birds has found nearly a 70 per-cent drop in numbers compared with 15 years ago.
Several species are on the increase, including robins, blue tits, magpies and goldfinches.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:03 pm
Are the council snooping in your bins?
Kensington and Chelsea is one of 90 councils who have allegedly run covert bin checking operations.
According to a report by the Evening Standard, officials and private contractors have conducted waste audits.
They apparently check the brands and types of discarded food packages as well as reading old bits of mail.
They allegedly then use that information to work out how wealthy residents are.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:02 pm
A third of London children leave primary school with reading difficulties
A new report says more than a third of children leave state primary schools in London with reading difficulties.
The study was carried out by the Centre for Policy Studies.
It revealed teachers were encouraged not to interrupt youngsters and children were not pressured to learn something if they did not want to.
The government says it’s determined to raise reading standards in schools.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 2:59 pm
Epsom Downs Bosses are prepared
Bosses at Epsom Downs are reassuring JLS fans ahead of Thursday Night’s concert.
The popular boy band will take to the stage as part of Epsom Live - a series of racing and live music events.
There had been concerns from parents about security following other JLS gigs.
But MD of Epsom Downs Racecourse Rupert Trevelyan says there is absolutely no need to worry. posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:45 pm
Mysterious hole reveals Sutton’s wartime legacy
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Excavation work and information from residents has helped Sutton Council solve the mystery surrounding a lost air-raid shelter.
A hole opened up on Sutton Green revealing a large structure buried deep underground. Although council records indicated air-raid shelters were built on the green, details of what the completed shelters looked like and when they were filled in were absent.
Thanks to an appeal by the council for information, local resident, Bob Last, aged 77,has come forward to shed light on the mystery.
Mr Last, a painter from Sutton Central who was six when the Second World War started said: “I remember taking school lessons in the shelter after Benhilton School was destroyed by a raid. It was cramped and smelt terribly of concrete.”
Bob was also able to reveal the shelters unusual shape which baffled workers excavating the site. It was originally thought that there were three large chambers connected by a corridor, but Mr Sharp explained the real layout of the shelter, “The shelter didn’t have rooms, it was made up of a series of narrow corridors with a number of corners to minimise casualties if it was hit by a bomb. A long staircase led down to the door and there were no toilets inside.”
Excavation work has revealed that after the war finished the roof of the shelter was broken in a number of places and filled with the rubble of houses destroyed in the blitz. It was then covered in turf, hiding the structure for nearly 70 years.
Sutton Council is currently assessing the site ahead of a decision on the shelters future
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:29 pm
Surrey Fire Team's four legged member
New figures show Surrey’s fire dog has almost halved the number of cases of arson.
Black Lab Max has been sniffing out the causes for the last 6 years. He began life as a family pet, but his boisterous nature is better suited to the Surrey Fire and Rescue Team.
Arson cases have dropped by 44 per-cent since 2004.
Max is also called on to help sniff out the causes of fires in Hampshire, West Sussex and East Sussex.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:35 pm
Social networking sites to blame for increasing burglaries?
Burglaires in Surrey have increased by 4 percent, but are social networking sites to blame?
A new survey suggests that one in ten ex-burglars claim to have used facebook and twitter to find information about targets.
Richard Taylor is a reformed thief who told us how these websites can be used:
MP pops into his local Waitrose
On Thursday, Waitrose in Kingston will play host to schools who wish to share their home grown fruit and veg within the community.
Richard Challoner School and Coombe Hill Junior school will set up shop outside the store at 11am, hoping to attract customers looking to support the efforts of local pupils.
All proceeds from the produce sale will go back into the schools' growing projects. Thursday's sale is a pilot and if successful could develop into a larger scale project in 2011.
Richmond Park's MP Zac Goldsmith is a keen supporter of home grown fruit and veg and is also a supporter of the campaign to keep the high street alive.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:06 am
Monday, 19 July 2010
Former Chelsea player signs for Liverpool
Roy Hodgson has made Joe Cole his first signing since taking over as Liverpool manager.
The England midfielder, who was a free agent after being released by Chelsea, has signed a four-year deal at Anfield.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 6:07 pm
Woman with head injuries in Epsom dies
A woman who was found with serious head injuries on a street in Epsom has died in hospital.
The 29 year old was found in Long Grove Road in the early hours of Sunday morning.
A 47 year old man from Epsom has been arrested and is being questioned.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 6:04 pm
Cycle Superhighway comes to South London
A public event has been held on Clapham Common today to mark the launch of a new cycle route in London.
The superhighway will provide a direct course from Colliers Wood to Central London in just 45 minutes.
Eventually 12 radial routes will be created.
Mayor of London, Boris Johnson opened the event.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:54 pm
Car thief's jailed
Four burglars have been jailed for stealing high performance cars from peoples driveways.
Danielle Costello from Hayes received a one year suspended sentence and an electronic curfew for 6 months.
The 21 year old was part of the gang that stole 30 vehicles worth almost four hundred thousand pounds.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:52 pm
Croydon Council one of the highest number of complaints to Ombudsman
More than 150 complaints were made about Croydon Council last year, to the Local Government Ombudsman.
Almost a hundred of these were upheld.
Wandsworth Council also had over a hundred complaints made against them. Compensation was paid in 30 percent of the cases.
Only 12 were made against Epsom and Ewell, with just 5 passed onto investigation.
The Ombudsman offers independent advice when someone is not satisfied with how the council has dealt with their issue.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:51 pm
Goldtrail customers return home
Goldtrail passengers are attempting to get home today after the discount holiday firm went bust.
Annual swan upping ceremony starts today
The annual Swan Upping ceremony starts today in Sunbury.
Dating back to medieval times, it's the census of swans on the River Thames.
The Sovereign's Swan Marker checks the health of the population and their young along the river to Oxfordshire.
Traditionally the the Queen claims ownership of all mute swans.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:28 pm
Kingston fire families return home
Residents of the tower block affected by the Cambridge estate fire in Kingston have enjoyed their first weekend back at home.
The Council declared the Madingley Block structurally safe on Friday. Power was also restored to parts of the building.
Residents up to the 11th floor were allowed back home.
The top four floors of the 15 storey block caught fire a week ago.
The remaining residents are being housed in council accommodation.
Kingston Council have been praised for their quick response to the fire.
All 60 effected families were in temporary accommodation within 24 hours.
Derrick Johnson, who’s Chairman of the Federation of Kingston Residents Associations is very happy with the response.
Two men arrested after police chase
Two men have been arrested after a police pursuit across South West London.
Officers tried to stop the driver of a suspected stolen car in Mitcham just after 1 o'clock today.
The car was later found abandoned in the Kelvin Grove area of Chessington.
Two men were detained in a nearby allotment.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:00 pm
People Of Richmond Borough – Your High Street Needs You!
Many Richmond Borough residents find themselves frustrated – and perhaps a little sad – at the amount of local high street shops and services closing down each month. Now, everyone has an opportunity to do their bit to support their high streets by completing a three minute ‘Buy Local’ online questionnaire.
‘Buy Local’ is a campaign sponsored by The Best of Richmond, a local company which champions recommended independent businesses in the borough for the benefit of residents and businesses alike. The core element of the campaign is a survey, found at www.thebestof.co.uk/survey, into shopping habits and what Richmond Borough shoppers want from their respective high streets.
The campaign has the full support of Zac Goldsmith MP and Cllr Pamela Fleming, Richmond Borough Council’s Strategic Cabinet Member for Community Development. Zac commented: “We have distinctive and wonderful independent shops and businesses in our area, but we shouldn’t take them for granted. ‘Buy Local’ reminds us that they need the support of both residents and local policy makers.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:48 pm
Police hunt Woking spectacles thief
Police have released an image of a man they want to question in connection with the theft of thousands of pounds worth of spectacles in Woking.
The man’s suspected of stealing 7 thousand pounds worth of glasses from two opticians in the town centre.
The haul included brands such as red or dead, French connection and Jasper Conran frames.
The suspect is Asian, about average height and build with short dark hair.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:24 am
Mega marathon man sets off
One person not welcoming the return of this week’s heatwave will be Richmond College lecturer Jason Arday.
He’s set out to run 30 marathons in 35 days, in aid of the Shooting Star children’s hospice and homeless charity Shelter.
Jason spoke to Jackie as he passed through Teddington on the first leg of his mega marathon.
To donate go to www.justgiving.com/jasonjogs30in35
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:37 am
Surrey romp to victory
In county Twenty20 cricket yesterday the Surrey lions romped to a resounding 6 wicket win over Gloucestershire Gladiators at Bristol.
Chris Tremlett bagged 3 for 18 as Gloucestershire were restricted to 147 for 9 in their 20 overs.
Steven Davis then raced to 73 from 30 balls as the Lions reached 150 for 4 in only 11.5 overs.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:32 am
Passengers come to grips with collapsed New Malden travel firm
The vast majority of Goldtrail customers stranded abroad should be back in the UK by tonight.
The Civil Aviation Authority stepped in when the New Malden based tour operator collapsed leaving 16-thousand people still on holiday in Turkey and Greece.
A further 2-thousand were scheduled to fly from the UK this weekend with another 50-thousand people booked to travel over the summer.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:27 am
Sunday, 18 July 2010
Byfleet chef backs new campaign to recycle food
A chef from West Byfleet is a backing a new campaign which could save money and make us healthier by recycling food.
As part of lovefoodsurrey.com Carmela Tomkins will be touring the county showing people how to get the most of of their weekly shop.
Big savings can be made in the basket as she explains:
Traynor signs new contract at Kingstonians
Top striker Bobby Traynor has signed a new two year contract with Kingstonian Football Club.
Traynor has been the Ryman Premier League’s leading scorer for the past two seasons.
Goalkeeper Rob Tolfrey has also signed a two year contract with the K’s.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:05 am
Thousands stranded as New Malden travel firm folds
It's estimated fifty-thousand travellers could be affected by the collapse of New Malden based travel firm Goldtrail.
The tour operator's folded, leaving sixteen thousand British holidaymakers stranded in Turkey and Greece.
A further two thousand were due to have flown out of the UK this weekend.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 2:16 am
Surrey's cricketers hunt a victory
In county Twenty20 cricket action later on the Surrey Lions take on the Gloucestershire Gladiators at Bristol.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 2:15 am
Chelsea warm up with win
In pre-season football friendlies yesterday Michael Essien marked his return from injury with a goal as Premier League Champions Chelsea beat Crystal Palace 1-0 at Selhurst Park.
Elsewhere Fulham were held to a 1-1 draw by Bournemouth.
Manchester United beat Celtic 3-1 while Arsenal ran by Barnet 4-0.
Meanwhile Martin Jol is odds-on favourite to be named the next Fulham manager.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 2:13 am
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Rod Bradbury
News Editor
Enjoys and plays all sports - could have been a cricketer if hadn't taken his eye off the ball at a crucial moment.
Lucy Mayer
Lucy presents both news and travel - more on Presenters page.
George Alderman
Spends his winters watching Chelsea and summers playing cricket for Long Ditton CC.
A resident of Claygate and Chessington where he enjoys spending time with family, friends and dog Charlie.
Richard Midson
Berrylands born and bred, and proud of the area and people. A pilot, former rally driver, likes horses, cats, wine and anything that makes him go "wow that was fun!!"
Natalie Osborne
Natalie presents both news and travel - more on Presenters page.
Julian Perkins
Lives in Hammersmith, spent four years in Poland followed by two years on the naval base in Portsmouth where he got to drive a nuclear submarine underwater, rather badly!
Mike Oban
Enjoys playing and watching sports. A budding football coach. Doesn't like anything that moves too fast.
Debbie Russ
Loves walking her dog and plays a mean game of badminton. She also sings in a band and loves trampolining.
Dave Stevens
Never cooks, likes a glass of red wine while not drinking Guinness. Is also a chocoholic.
Deborah Martin
Deborah may have started life on a farm in Ohio, USA, but is a long time resident of south west London. Her current loves are fusing glass, good meals out, and dancing.
Helen Ann Smith
Oxford graduate born and bred in Hampton. Loves playing hockey, cooking (and eating) good food and backpacking to far flung corners of the world.
Alan Walsh
Brought up in Notting Hill and Watford he now lives with his wife and
his cat in Surbiton. Has a passion for sports cars and drives a yellow Z3 Roadster.
Pascale Couch
Lived entire life in Surbiton, studied creative writing and media but likes exploring. Travelled the world and taught in Ghana which was amazing! Enjoys playing violin, watching comedies and eating.
Sarah Onions
Schooled in Kingston, likes jogging around Bushy Park. Met Vince Cable when he helped Wickids after-school club sort out accommodation, then interviewed the MP on her return to journalism.
Alex Loveridge
Media and Film graduate who watches tennis at Surbiton and Wimbledon but also plays. Swims at Richmond, but not in the Thames.
Kate Gibson
Has lived in Epsom for most of her life. Favourite things: holidays and reading, preferably together.
Andrew Catford
Wimbledon born, loves challenges: trekking Nepal, diving with sharks, snowmobiling the Arctic. There's nothing better than being just outside your comfort zone; you're only here once (sorry Buddha).
Emily Dexter
Emily lives in Esher. She is a 2nd Year History of Art Undergraduate at the University of Leeds and enjoys fencing, singing and art.
Noreen Harewood
Joseph Keen
Amateur rally driver and history graduate. Passionate about sport, cars and current affairs.
Alex Bryson
South west Londoner, broadcast journalism at LCC and a big passion for sport - both watching and playing, the latter often done at a very much substandard level.
Flora Blathwayt
Social and Political Geography at Edinburgh then Post Grad from LCC. Ex Bristol Rovers player, LFC fan, windsurfer, skier and cricketer who loves folk and house music.
Rebecca Burrows
Has swum with a shark, learnt to ride a motorbike in the outback and hugged a very smelly koala! Favourite food is cereal, loves running, cycling and going on walks with her gorgeous dogs.
Laura Koonjean
Loves this crazy, happy, hectic thing called life, tea and cake. Also enjoys singing and the joy/pain of supporting Spurs.
Rozzy Unwin
Fulham resident who loves all things theatrical. A keen netball and tennis player with a City University Broadcast Journalism MA.
Kirsty Manley
Hannah Moore
Synth pop aficionado and Fred Perry fan from the great East Midlands. Used to be in a folk dance troupe.
Simone Halfin
Freelance radio producer/presenter. Shared a currant bun with Spike Milligan during rehearsals at the BBC and nearly choked listening to his jokes.
Kathryn Dowling
Self confessed arts, culture and literature junky. Aficionado of news and currents affairs. Favourite things: blue cheese, satire and good times – not necessarily in that order.
Tom Grimwood
Loves British, American and International politics and passionately interested in science and technology. Has a dark sense of humour.
