Community News

New research has found that careers in construction trades are not being considered by women despite a strong public desire to see more females in the sector. Shockingly almost three quarters of the East Midlands (85%) have never encountered a female in any of the main construction trades roles of plumber, electrician, carpenter or builder even though almost nine in ten (88%) the East Midlands would like to see more women in such roles. Yet, more than eight in ten (94%) of women surveyed from the region have never even considered a career in the industry.

The survey commissioned by Able Skills, specialists in construction training, found that only one in ten (15%) of the people surveyed from the East Midlands had encountered a female in these roles. Of those, (88%) described the service received as positive and would recommend the service to others. None reported a negative experience.

However, why are there so few women considering a role within the construction trades industry? Women reported that the career was never highlighted as an option for them to pursue. Furthermore, more than three quarters (87%) of women said no family, friends, careers advisors or teachers had ever discussed a career in the construction trades industry with them. While 73% of men in the region said their family discussed this occupation with them, this was the case for only 16% of women.

The biggest factors holding women from The East Midlands back from pursuing a career in a role traditionally associated with the opposite sex were concerns about: not being taken seriously (53%), facing prejudice in the job role (40%), and finding it intimidating (40%).

However the shortage of women in construction trades could be a trend on the way out, as overall British women aged 25-34 were the most likely to consider a career in the construction trades (35%).

Gary Measures, Managing Director of Able Skills says: “The public want to see more women in the construction trades industry and trust them to deliver a good job. Proving that women’s concerns about not being taken seriously and facing prejudice are unfounded. We really want to encourage more females to consider a career in construction trades and are really pleased to see that the younger generations may break down some of the barriers. In 2017 only 5% of Able Skills trainees were female but we really want this to change.”

Despite construction trades roles being perceived as male orientated, there is a high level of trust towards women working in the sector. Almost a third (31%) of UK adults said they would trust a female construction trades person more to give them the best and most fair price, compared to just 14% who would trust a male more.

With Saudi Arabia investing billions in high speed rail as it diversifies its transport infrastructure to include more non-oil sources, a Saudi delegation led by HRH Prince Abdulaziz Bin Faisal visited the National College for High Speed Rail in Birmingham. He was accompanied by Andrew Hammond Managing Director of Riyadh based International Transport company Future Solutions and the Group CEO Mohammad Mutabagani.

The Saudi representatives visited the campus on Lister Street to discover best practice in technical training and see first-hand the cutting-edge equipment available to learners at the National College – the world’s first dedicated high speed rail college.

The Saudi visit is one of several international delegations that have been invited to tour the college this year, with previous visits from representatives of rail projects in Malaysia, Singapore and Bulgaria, as well as a recent delegation from the 2018 International Seminar for Railway Education and Training (ISRET).

As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) looks to reduce the nation’s reliance on crude oil and promote the entire Middle East region as part of its Vision 2030 programme, it is already investing heavily in its railway network with Haramain High Speed Rail, a 281-mile line between Medina and Mecca, due to open later this year.

The Prince requested to see the college - the largest of five new national colleges created by the Government to ensure British workers can learn world-class skills - as part of his British visit, to see how training is being delivered through innovative technologies.

He met with some of the college’s learners and experienced how the world-class learning facilities which include Virtual and Augmented Reality headsets, and 3D printing technologies, are helping to prepare a new generation of railway engineers and leaders.

It is intended that similar methods will be used for future training in Saudi Arabia: the Haramain High Speed Rail project has been developed by a Spanish consortium on a build, operate and transfer (BOT) basis. With this project now nearing completion and the Spanish team preparing to conclude operations, Saudi Arabia is looking to train its own workforce to deliver future high speed rail projects.

Clair Mowbray, chief executive of the National College for High Speed Rail, said: “As we begin to provide Britain with a talented workforce that has the skills to deliver pioneering infrastructure, fit for the 21st Century, it’s fantastic that our innovative training methods are already generating international interest.

“High-speed rail has the potential to be a Great British export industry in the coming years. As such, it’s just as important that as we continue to partner with employers here in the UK, that we develop and maintain strong international links so that we can learn from, and share best practice with the global community of railway leaders, experts and professionals.”

HRH Prince Abdulaziz Bin Faisal al Saud, said: “Everything we’ve seen at the college has been impressive – from the design to the way of teaching with new technologies. We already had high expectations before arriving but what we’ve seen here has exceeded those expectations. Our understanding of how things are working here will definitely help to inform future projects in Saudi Arabia.”

Charlotte Webster, an apprentice with WSP studying on the college’s Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship Course for High Speed Rail and Infrastructure, said: “I started with the college in September and it’s been a very different experience to previous education pathways I’ve been through. The college has high-spec, state-of-the-art technology which isn’t available anywhere else. We can apply the knowledge we learn in the classroom here and bring it forward in a practical manner when we’re out working in the field. The high level of technical education will be incredibly useful for delivering future plans and projects such as HS2.”

The Prince is in the UK following his meeting in Jeddah with the Transport Minister the Rt Hon. Chris Grayling along with senior officials from DfT.

A new opera premières in Birmingham (UK) this week that takes an audience on a musical journey through time and space to the end of the universe as we know it.

Staged in Birmingham City University’s Royal Birmingham Conservatoire on Thursday 26 and Friday 27 April, ‘Entanglement! An Entropic Tale’ is an opera in three acts and is described by its creators as “the ‘Romeo and Juliet’ of particle physics”. The production centres around the love story between an electron and a positron who are stuck in a quantum quandary arising as a result of the unstoppable, chaotic destruction of our known universe.

The story is based on traditional operatic themes such as impossible love – in this case between an electron and a positron – and the meddling of god-like figures in human’s lives. The timeless tale also explores issues of identity, free will and destruction.

The opera is being presented by Infinite Opera company, a troupe formed of postgraduate students from Royal Birmingham Conservatoire who wanted to develop a platform for their own expression and creativity, but also divulge the wonders of both science and opera.

Their first production is being codirected by the company and Aleksandar Dunđerović, Professor of Performing Arts at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. Born in Belgrade, Serbia, Professor Dundjerović is an award-winning professional theatre director and throughout his career has worked on major productions in his home country as well as in Brazil, Canada, Columbia, Iran, the USA and the UK.

The starting point for this project came from librettist and soprano Roxanne Korda’s interest in different fields of human creativity, bringing together physics, philosophy and music. Now an MMus student at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, she graduated in Physics and Philosophy (King’s College London), and has previously worked on raising awareness around women in physics, a traditionally male-dominated field.

Royal Birmingham Conservatoire student Roxanne Korda from London, said: “This is an opera which describes theories from physics that are not commonly discussed and presents them in a new manner, filled with emotion and connected to the human spirit. Not only does it highlight these fundamental ideas that are in fact repeated throughout history, it also exposes the art form of opera to a wider audience, ensuring it can continue to be relevant to contemporary society. 

“I wrote this libretto in order to disseminate the theories of physics that I love to think about so much, and help people feel connected to them in a way that is very approachable. I hope that this story will inspire the imagination of the audience to learn more about the universe and how we as humans perceive the world around us.”

Taking place in The Lab, a cutting edge, completely flexible black-box studio space, the set has been designed in conjunction with students from Birmingham City University’s Interior Architecture and Design course, who created inflatable structures for the show.

Spanish composer and performer Daniel Blanco Albert has composed music for several Royal Birmingham Conservatoire productions since he began studying at the college in 2015. On composing ‘Entanglement! An Entropic Tale’, he said:

“Creating an opera about physics – which I studied while preparing for university – was a project that really pushed me to do something completely new and original. The music is heavily inspired by the libretto, which mixes a very human story with science and physics, creating a sort of Greek mythological drama, but led by the elements and forces that surround us.

“Although challenging – mainly fitting an opera around the student’s education commitments – the collaborative nature of our production has been hugely rewarding and has given many of those involved their first professional experience.

“Away from Birmingham, there has been strong interest from festivals in London, Madrid and Valencia, as well as several universities, who would like to stage ‘Entanglement! An Entropic Tale’. We are also having conversations with venues in France, and even Serbia and Canada, who may wish us to take the opera on tour in those countries too.”

The Conservatoire was granted a Royal title by Her Majesty The Queen in September 2017, with the bestowment following the HRH The Earl of Wessex becoming the college’s first Royal Patron in March 2016. The Earl officially declared the building open on Sunday 11 March this year prior to the Royal Opening Gala Concert in his honour.

Featuring the Royal Conservatoire’s Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, and conducted by the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra’s (CBSO) Music Director, Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla, the Royal Opening Gala Concert marked the beginning of the college’s Opening Festival, which continues with ‘Entanglement! An Entropic Tale’.

Alongside ‘Entanglement! An Entropic Tale’ the Opening Festival will welcome a wealth of world-class artists to Birmingham, including Julia Donaldson, Peter Donohoe, Orkest de Ereprijs, Laura van der Heijden, Nigel Kennedy, Roderick Williams and Jacqueline Wilson. Birmingham City University Chancellor, Sir Lenny Henry, will also be narrating ‘Peter and the Wolf’ on Friday 4 May.

Not only will the festival see international stars grace the Conservatoire’s five performance venues, there will also be a focus on the rising stars and grass roots artists of the local music scene, as per the institution’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing a hub for performing arts in the city.

The demolition of old buildings on the Heath Town estate remains on track – with work on the first new homes to emerge in their place expected by the end of the year.

Around ten weeks remain on the demolition programme, which includes the removal of garages, a disused underground car park, 36 maisonettes and other buildings that have been vacant for some years.

The demolition will pave the way for the development of more than 300 brand new homes for sale and rent, including new council homes, across several sites as part of the revised Heath Town Masterplan.

City of Wolverhampton Council hope to appoint architects next month (May) for the first phase of 30 homes on Hobgate Road.

Director for Housing, Kate Martin, said: “Excellent progress is being on the demolition programme at Heath Town.

“Real change is happening and we are fast approaching the exciting prospect of seeing new homes being built on the estate, the majority of which will be new houses with gardens.

“This is a major regeneration programme in the city that will make a huge difference to the quality of life and housing choice for our residents.”

The new homes across Heath Town will be a mixture of one and two-bedroom apartments, and two-bedroom bungalows, as well as two, three and four-bedroom houses. All of the new homes will have their own car parking space provided.

Phase one of the enabling works at Heath Town saw the demolition of walkways and garages in the Hobgate Road area of the estate, and other works included disconnecting and re-routing the district heating pipework and the refurbishment of the ground and lower ground floors of Ling House to provide new office, meeting and activity space for the Hope Family Centre.

The demolition works will also create an interim car park of 50 additional spaces on the site of the former Chervil Rise blocks. This will be available for use by Heath Town residents by the middle of May.

Heart in a Box, a revolutionary machine that could increase the number of heart transplants carried out at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham (QEHB) by up to 50% has arrived at the hospital following a successful fundraising campaign.

The machine keeps a retrieved heart alive outside of the body, by pumping blood around it, and irrigating it ready for transplantation. This radically increases the amount of time that surgeons have to perform the transplant, compared with the more traditional method of storing the heart in ice.

Heart in a Box is now ready and waiting for its first use at QEHB, following the £265,000 campaign by QEHB Charity to raise funds for the machine. Heart Research UK generously donated an incredible £132,500 towards the Heart in a Box campaign, with the rest of the money being raised by QEHB Charity’s fantastic supporters.

The arrival of Heart in a Box was marked with a special event, put on by QEHB Charity and Heart Research UK, to thank some of the inspirational fundraisers who helped to raise money for this important cause. Justine Davy, Head of Fundraising for QEHB Charity said: “I am immensely proud of all of the hard work and dedication of our fundraisers who have helped to bring Heart in a Box to the hospital. I am delighted that the machine is now at the hospital, ready to help the incredible heart team to save more lives than ever before. Huge thanks go to Heart Research UK in the West Midlands, and all of their supporters for their wonderful donation that helped make the campaign such a huge success.”

John Lloyd, Regional Executive at Heart Research UK in the Midlands, said: “The Organ Care System has the potential to allow surgeons to carry out 50% more heart transplants every year. This new technology will increase the number of suitable organs and the chance of survival for so many patients.

“Heart Research UK has always been committed to make surgery safer, and ‘heart in a box’ will help patients live healthier, happier and longer lives in the Midlands and nationwide.”

Present at the event was Sarah Codling, 31 year old mother of one from Woodgate Valley, who received a heart transplant at QEHB in 2015. Since her heart transplant, Sarah has worked tirelessly to fundraise for heart patients at the hospital, and was delighted that heart in a box is now at the hospital. Sarah said: “Heart in a Box is an astonishing piece of technology, I am really proud to have played my part in helping to fundraise for it. Since my heart transplant, I’ve wanted to give something back to the amazing hospital that saved my life. I know that Heart in a Box will completely change the way that heart transplants are carried out at QEHB, and the heart team will be able to change even more lives in the future.”

Businesses and organisations around Wolverhampton are being invited to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War by supporting the Royal British Legion’s Silent Soldier campaign.

100 years ago, the guns fell silent on the world’s first truly global war. The Royal British Legion believes it is time to think about all of those who lived through this tragic and remarkable time, and to say thank you for all they did.

The Royal British Legion is asking groups and individuals to sponsor and display metal or polymer Silent Solider silhouettes on buildings, in gardens, offices or the home as part of its nationwide thank you campaign.

The City of Wolverhampton Council will be among those displaying a Silent Solider in memory of those who did not return home and those who did and went on to lay the foundations for the society and the freedoms people enjoy today.

Following the end of the war in November 1918, the long process of demobilisation and discharge began. The Silent Soldier represents soldiers arriving back to England who were given a railway ticket to their home station.

From there they were on their own, and would be seen across the country, walking back home, down the roads and across the fields, returning to their families, but they represent the whole society of the nation that changed.

Alison Bates, Community Fundraiser for the Royal British Legion in Wolverhampton and the Black Country, said: “Companies, community groups and individuals can donate to receive and display a Silent Soldier as part of our nationwide campaign to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War.

“We want people to remember the conflict, but also to acknowledge that it was a moment in time which changed our collective futures forever. For instance, women played a huge role in the First World War and this, in turn, helped to change the role of women in Britain. The armed forces included Hindus, Sikhs, and Muslims from our Commonwealth Nations whose descendants contribute to life in the UK today.

"Pioneers in the First World War also had to innovate and find new solutions; doctors and nurses vastly increased our understanding and use of x-rays, blood transfusions and reconstructive surgery, not to mention the treatment of traumatic shock.

"And arts and culture reflected the experiences of the generation involved in this conflict thanks to the work of poets, artists and composers that we still enjoy today like Wilfred Owen, J R R Tolkien, Edward Elgar and many more."

Dozens of activities will be taking place in Wolverhampton over the coming months to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War. They are being organised by the City of Wolverhampton Council and partner organisations across the City and include events, exhibitions, displays and services of remembrance.

More information about the commemorations will be announced in the coming weeks, and the council is developing a dedicated website which will detail activities taking place locally which will enable organisations and individuals to share their events.

Keith Ireland, Managing Director of the City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “We have a duty to educate today's generation about what the country went through, and it is important that as a City we recognise and thank all those who made sacrifices 100 years ago.

“The Silent Soldier initiative will be a stirring visual way to remind us of the millions of soldiers who returned home from the front, forever changed by the First World War and that they returned to civilian life quietly to have families, careers and create a society for future generations.

“We and our partners are also organising and supporting an extensive programme of events and activities and we hope as many people as possible will get involved.”

An unusual piece of First World War history has been plucked from Wolverhampton City Archives to be showcased in Germany.

A rare white feather - sent to men accused of cowardice for not “doing their bit” for the war effort – has been delivered to the Bundeswehr Military Museum in Dresden for their ‘Gender and Violence’ exhibition.

The white feather is believed to be one of only two known of in the world, with the other located at the Imperial War Museum in London.

Heidi McIntosh, Senior Archivist at Wolverhampton City Archives, said: “We are lucky to hold so many iconic pieces from the past and this incredibly rare ‘White Feather Letter’ is one of them.

“It is a great honour for the Archives that this item from our collection will be displayed internationally.”

The white feather will return to its City of Wolverhampton home to be part of an exhibition commemorating the anniversary of the end of the First World War in November.

It was found in 2011 along with a letter sent to local man William Weller, despite him being excused from military service on medical grounds and because his work in Wolverhampton was vital to the war effort.

Staff made the discovery when they were looking through a collection of material belonging to the Wolverhampton-based Weller firm of architects, which designed many local buildings in the 19th and 20th centuries. William was one of the partners in the firm.

Heidi added: “Arguably William, who was in his early 40s at the time, shouldn’t have been sent this white feather in the first place because he had been excused from service on medical grounds and because he was carrying out essential war work by building homes for steel industry workers, but it seems he decided to keep it along with the letter.

“We’re very grateful that he did as it’s a fascinating artefact.”

The Order of the White Feather was founded at the start of the First World War and aimed to coerce men to enlist in the Army by persuading women to present them with a white feather if they were not wearing a uniform.

The campaign proved very effective, so much so that employees working in state industries had to be issued with King and Country badges indicating that they too were serving the war effort. In addition, a Silver War Badge was presented to service personnel honourably discharged due to wounds or sickness so that they weren’t challenged for not wearing uniform.

The letter, sent in the latter stages of the war and signed by A. Chicken Heart, made the recipient a "Companion" of the "Most Noble Order of The Trench Dodgers" for his perceived "devotion to self regardless of narrow patriotism" – and included a white feather, the insignia of the order.

The Weller papers were bequeathed by family member Brian Weller to the Wolverhampton Buildings Preservation Trust.

Wolverhampton City Archives, situated at Whitmore Hill, houses over 1,000 years of recorded history.

On Saturday 19th May 2018, Harry and Meghan will tie the knot in St George's Chapel of Windsor Castle. Ever the thoughtful neighbour, the Windsor Fudge Kitchen in adjacent Thames Street has spent months perfecting a brand new Lemon and Elderflower fudge recipe to celebrate the occasion.

Lemon & Elderflower …

Inspired by Claire Ptak's Lemon & Elderberry wedding cake, chosen by the couple, this is summer in a slice, combining all natural, fresh whipping cream, lemon zest and natural elderflower; for that classic citrus zing, gently mellowed by the floral sweetness of elderflower, all regally decorated with edible glitter and chocolate crowns.

Like all Fudge Kitchen 'slab' fudge, it is hand made in full view of visitors, using the traditional technique of “slabbing and loafing”, where warm flourishes of fudge are theatrically turned on a marble counter as the fudge cools, breaking up granulation and creating the creamiest, smoothest fudge available. Meltingly soft in the centre, deliciously firm on the edge, a Prince amongst confectionery!

The RSPCA Newbrook Farm Animal Centre and Hospital in Birmingham is one of the busiest RSPCA centres in the country. Last year, the centre took in 1,331 animals, including 267 dogs, and rehomed more than a thousand animals to their new forever homes.

In 2017, the hospital treated more than 15,000 patients from dogs, cats, rabbits and wildlife, and carried out 1,129 neutering operations.

Craig Osborne, RSPCA Newbrook Farm Animal Hospital said: “Our work to protect the welfare of animals is unrelenting.

“Each year more than 10,000 animals are cared for at the hospital - some require minor procedures, although a lot do require life saving surgery and the numbers are rising every year.

“My Big Walkies is a great challenge for both you and your dog. By taking on 10,000 steps a day and raising money to support the RSPCA you can help us rescue, rehabilitate and rehome animals in desperate need of care.”

Data collected by pet tech company PitPat showed that on average people in the West Midlands walk their dog for 53 minutes a day. This is slightly lower than the UK average which is 57 minutes a day.*

Dr Samantha Gaines, the RSPCA’s dog welfare expert, said: “Lots of us know how much our dogs love their walkies. Walking and playing with your dog is a great opportunity to form a strong bond with your pet as well as keeping you both fit and active, as well as raising money for some less fortunate furry friends.

“My Big Walkies is a big challenge - 10,000 steps is about five miles a day - so some dogs will relish the chance to get out for some extra long walks however those with less active dogs due to age or health for example have the perfect excuse to do fewer steps or leave them at home and enjoy a solo stroll.”

A range of outstanding young people aged 15-29 have been honoured with Commonwealth Youth Awards at the Youth Forum of the Commonwealth Summit.  The awards recognise young people whose innovative projects have had a significant impact on their communities. This year’s awards celebrated young people’s contribution towards a fairer, more sustainable, more secure and more prosperous future for the Commonwealth: the four sub-themes of the Summit that is taking place this week in London.

Usman Iftikhar was named Commonwealth Young Person of the Year and received his award from Prince Harry. “The Commonwealth is such an amazing platform to share our ideas and perspectives,” he said.

Usman, 27, was also the regional winner for the Pacific.  He founded Catalysr, a startup incubator that enables migrants and refugees in Australia to start their own businesses and create a sustainable future for themselves and their communities. The company has a four-month incubator programme that offers office space, mentoring sessions, networking opportunities and access to capital. Usman believes that the Youth Forum and the Commonwealth Summit is an opportunity to collaborate on a long term sustainable future for everyone.

The regional winners were presented with their awards by the UK’s Secretary of State for Education, Damian Hinds.

Jonathan Barcant, 29, the regional winner for Caribbean and Americas, is from Trinidad and Tobago. He founded Vetiver TT, a cost-effective bio-engineering scheme to build climate change resilience. He would like to take the scheme to other nations affected by hurricanes such Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica, and says that “to be part of this network to showcase on this platform is very useful” for expanding his work.

The regional winner for Asia, Vanessa Paranjothy, said that the award will enable her to promote her social enterprise, Freedom Cups, to a wider market.  Vanessa, 29, from Singapore, co-founded Freedom Cups with her sisters. It provides underprivileged women with menstrual products in a buy-one-give-one model.

The regional winner for Africa and Europe, Sherifah Tumusiime, 29, is from Uganda.  She founded Zimba Women, a social enterprise that helps underserved women get internet access.  She said she was deeply humbled to be honoured by the award: “it’s not just East Africa or Africa that I’m working with now, it’s global.”

Layne Robinson, the Head of Social Policy Development at the Commonwealth, said that the Regional Winners and Commonwealth Young Person of the Year “demonstrate real innovation and dedication in working to make the Commonwealth fairer, more secure, more sustainable and more prosperous. Their projects demonstrate the powerful potential of young people all over the Commonwealth and we are thrilled to recognise them during the Youth Forum this year.”

The 20 finalists span every region of the Commonwealth and were shortlisted from more than 400 applications from around the world. The awards are coordinated by the Commonwealth Youth Programme.

Finalists receive a grant of £1,000 to continue their development work.  The Regional Young Persons of the Year receive £3,000 and the Commonwealth Young Person of the Year receives £5,000.

The Pan-Commonwealth adjudication panel included the High Commissioner for Saint Kitts and Nevis, representatives from the High Commissions of Fiji, Malaysia, and Kenya, a trustee of the British Youth Council and a representative of the Commonwealth Local Government Forum.

Independent charity Crimestoppers and the Electoral Commission are urging the public in Birmingham to protect their right to vote by reporting any cases of electoral fraud.

The campaign asks people to tell Crimestoppers if they suspect or have information on someone breaking electoral law. This includes cases of:

·         Personation (people pretending to be someone else in order to vote / at the polling station)

·         Bribery (offer of money or other inducements to vote in a particular way)

·         Intimidation (influencing a voter through the use of threats)

·         More than one person using a polling booth at the same time

During 2017, police forces across the UK investigated 336 electoral fraud allegations. Of these, 104 alleged cases related to voting offences and 36 to registration offences.

Of these, there was one prosecution and conviction for personation. Two suspects accepted police cautions regarding personation when voting by post, and four suspects accepted cautions for registration offences.

The ‘Your vote is yours alone’ campaign materials depict different types of electoral fraud offences taking place in a polling station or in someone’s home as they complete their postal vote. They are designed to empower voters to protect their vote and report any concerns about possible fraud to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or via our anonymous online form which can be found at crimestoppers-uk.org.

In addition, local authorities have been provided with resources – including videos, posters and a leaflet – which they can use in their local areas.

Mark Hallas, Chief Executive of the charity Crimestoppers, said: “Whilst electoral fraud is quite rare, it’s important for us all to be aware, lookout for it and work together to stop people from jeopardising our tradition of fair and free elections.

“Last year, as a charity, over 400,000 people trusted us to pass on their information about all sorts of crimes – safe in the knowledge that they remain 100% anonymous. Always.

”With elections on the horizon, we are asking people who – for whatever reason may not wish to speak to the police – to contact us on 0800 555 111 or via our anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. Once you hang up the phone, or click send, you’re done.”

Crimestoppers and the Electoral Commission have been working together since the 2015 general election when they first joined forces to raise public awareness and encourage people to speak up about their electoral fraud suspicions or concerns.

Craig Westwood, Director of Communications and Research at the Electoral Commission, said: “Electoral fraud is a serious crime, and the cautions and convictions handed down in the last year show that the police take reports seriously. No one should feel pressured to vote a certain way whether at the poll station on 3 May or by post. Our campaign seeks to empower voters to protect their vote; anyone who suspects fraud should contact Crimestoppers as soon as possible.”

This year, Sydney will host both a historic standalone State of Origin encounter on Sunday 24 June, when the NSW Blues face rivals QLD Maroons at ANZ Stadium in Game Two of the 2018 Series, and the first ever Women's State of Origin game played under the Origin brand on Friday 22 June.

To add to the anticipation, the men's Game Two in Sydney could be the 2018 Series decider; with either the Brad Fittler led Blues creating history in claiming just their second Series victory since 2005 or the Maroons continuing their decade long dominance of Australia's most watched sporting event.

This clash will also be the first time in 17 years that a State of Origin game will have been played on a Sunday and furthermore, there will be no NRL Premiership games contested that weekend, allowing State of Origin Game Two in Sydney to take centre stage.

NSW Minister for Tourism and Major Events Adam Marshall said the State was proud to host the first Sunday State of Origin encounter in almost two decades and the Women's State of Origin on the same weekend, providing fans with a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a long weekend in the Harbour City.

“NSW is the country's number one state for tourism and major events, with the annual State of Origin Series one of Sydney's key sporting events both in terms of visitation and exposure via broadcast audiences.

“In 2017, Sydney hosted Game Two of the Series which attracted 19,000 overnight visitors, delivered $12 million in visitor expenditure to the NSW economy and was watched by 3.5 million people across Australia.

“Fans attending this year's Game Two in Sydney could witness history in the making, with the fixture a potential Series decider, adding further significance to this Sunday encounter.

“History will also be made in Sydney that weekend when the first ever Women's State of Origin game will be contested under lights on Friday night, showcasing the passion, skill and determination of the country's finest players.

“We look forward to welcoming supporters to Sydney for these must see events and to enjoy an extended break in NSW,” Mr Marshall said.

In partnership with the NRL, Queensland State of Origin legend, Cooper Cronk features in a short video, personally urging fans to visit Sydney for Game Two of this year's State of Origin Series.

The dual Dally M Medallist was filmed in locations across Sydney, where he highlights some of his favourite activities, attractions, food destinations and hangouts.

Having retired from representative rugby league at the end of 2017, Cronk is a firm fan favourite in both Queensland and Victoria having played for the QLD Maroons on 22 occasions including seven series wins and 323 NRL games for the Melbourne Storm.

This year, Cronk will join 83,000 fans in the stands at ANZ Stadium on Sunday 24 June as State of Origin fever grips the nation.

“As a rugby league player you aspire to play State of Origin football. There is nothing like it. It's more than just a sporting contest, it's an event that means so much to so many,” Mr Cronk said.

“This year I'll be experiencing State of Origin as a fan for the first time in a long time. And while I'm sure I'll have the same nerves as my playing days, I'm looking forward to being part of a passionate crowd in Sydney.”

Cronk, who now plays for the Sydney Roosters, said Sydney has so much on offer for travelling fans.

“I love Sydney, it's a special city with so much to see and do,” Mr Cronk explained.

“You can't go past Sydney's famous attractions and stunning beaches, its world-class museums, theatres and festivals, plus Sydney has amazing cafés and restaurants.

“With Game Two of this year's State of Origin being played on a Sunday night, what a fantastic opportunity for fans to rally up their friends, teammates or work colleagues for a few days of fun and excitement in Sydney,” he concluded.

Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Awareness Week has been renamed as Dementia Action Week.

It takes place from 21-27 May 2018 and Alzheimer’s Society is calling on everyone in Birmingham to unite today and plan actions, big or small, to make a huge difference to people affected by dementia.

There are more than 10,000 people living with dementia in Birmingham and too many face the condition alone without adequate support. Here are top five ways you can get involved in 2018:

1. Become a Dementia Friend Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Friends initiative allows people to learn a little bit more about what it's like to live with dementia and then turn that understanding into action. In Birmingham there are already more than 64,490 Dementia Friends across Birmingham, Solihull, Coventry and Warwickshire. To get involved you can either find your nearest Dementia Friends Information Session – a fun, interactive session that covers five key messages through activities and discussion – or watch an online video. The growing dementia movement has already seen two million people become Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friends in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. To find your nearest session, visit dementiafriends.org.uk

2. Spread the news This year’s Dementia Action Week theme is community change and we want to see a big impact in Birmingham. People with dementia and carers have shared actions with us that will make a difference, from ‘invite me out. Friends still mean the world to me’ to ‘take time to listen. I can still teach you a thing or two.’ Unite against dementia and help people affected to feel included in their community and able to live the life they want. Get your family, friends or work colleagues to sign up and be the first to hear more about Dementia Action Week, unite now at alzheimers.org.uk/DementiaActionWeek

3. Arrange a quiz event Sign up, team up and compete to unite against dementia with our all-new, action-packed mega-quiz. With someone developing dementia every three minutes, it’s the biggest health and social care challenge we face right now. This is your chance to help us outsmart it, using the mighty power of the quiz to raise funds – and have a lot of fun. Sign up today for your free Challenge Dementia Quiz pack at alzheimers.org.uk/challengedementia You can also contact your local Community Fundraising Officer, Lisa Courtney on 07484 504 822.

4. Join dementia research In the UK, one person develops dementia every three minutes and almost everyone knows someone whose life has been affected. There hasn’t been a new drug for dementia in 15 years. But since 2013, the number of clinical trials for Alzheimer’s drugs has doubled. Alzheimer’s Society will continue to drive forward research for effective treatments for dementia and – ultimately – a cure. Unite against dementia and sign up to take part in research, visit alzheimers.org.uk/joindementiaresearch

5. Get involved on social media Whether you are planning your own fundraising event, attending a Dementia Friends Information Session or have a unique action to help make a difference, Alzheimer’s Society wants to hear about it. Share what you are planning on social media by using #DAW2018. You can ‘like’ or ‘follow’ your local Alzheimer’s Society pages: Alzheimer's Society West Midlands.

As the resurgence in house plants takes the UK by storm in 2018, BBC Gardeners’ World Live has introduced a new stage dedicated to the art of indoor gardening – Blooming Interiors.

The Blooming Interiors stage brings indoor gardening gurus to the fore including Matt Biggs, author of Practical Guide to Growing Healthy Houseplants and Jane Perrone, presenter of podcast On The Ledge. Michael Perry (Mr Plant Geek) completes the line-up with an exclusive Houseplant Edition of his Weird and Wacky Plant Show. Complementing the houseplant hotshots, British Florist Association experts present daily demos on how to create the most stunning indoor displays with your garden flowers. You can even pay a visit to renowned floral designer Jonathan Moseley and his team on the British Flower Bus for more floristry tips, including wedding florals, situated next to the Blooming Interiors stage.

Then all you need to do is start creating your own indoor jungle! Browse over 100 places selling quality plants, many suitable for indoor gardening, in the Floral Marquee and Plant Village at BBC Gardeners’ World Live (14-17 June at Birmingham’s NEC). From Streptocarpus, orchids and air plants to cacti, carnivorous plants and the stunningly colourful Coleus you’ll be spoilt for choice!

As houseplant-mania hits the streets, we’ve asked Jane Perrone, famed Gardening Editor of Guardian and presenter of On the Ledge, for her top tips for extending your garden indoors.

1. Know your plants!

2. Don't overwater

3. Keep them close

The warm weather has finally arrived – and about time too!  This inevitably means that people will be heading into the garden to start getting ready for summer, and Severn Trent has some great tips on how to look after your garden and be water savvy at the same time.

Doug Clarke, water efficiency manager at Severn Trent, said: ““We all want to keep our gardens looking their best and now is the time that people will be planting bedding plants and seedlings.  These can take a lot of watering in, and the biggest temptation is to get the hosepipe or sprinkler out and leave it running.  But this can use as much as 1,000 litres of drinking water in just one hour. To put it in perspective, that’s more water than a family of four would normally use in a whole day!

“We’re also urging gardeners not to worry about the health of their lawns just yet – in fact, watering established lawns is not only unnecessary, but can cause many common lawn problems.  Watering encourages shallow rooting, which in turn means the lawn is more at risk in dry conditions.  So once you start watering, you can’t stop.

“When we do get a shower or two, and no doubt we will – the warm weather never seems to last long - that’s probably all your garden needs.  And it’s also the perfect time to collect April showers in a water butt, that way you can keep the garden watered without using water from the tap, and save money too!”

It’s been over 20 years since Severn Trent last had a hosepipe ban in place and while the company is confident it has enough supply to meet demand, it's still encouraging customers to save what they can.

Doug continues: “Our reservoirs and other water sources are in a healthy position and looking good for the summer ahead, despite the rainfall over the winter being less than average.

“Now, we’re asking our customers not to be complacent and to think about being ‘water wise’ in whatever they do.  If there’s even a chance that it’s going to be a long dry summer, then we need to get into good habits now.”

Time is running out if you want to see the popular children’s and family entertainment exhibitions currently running at Wolverhampton Art Gallery.

It is free admission to ‘Clangers, Bagpuss & Co.’ a V&A Museum of Childhood touring exhibition and ‘TV Puppets: Icons from 80 Years of Entertainment’, with the final day for both on Sunday, April 29, at the gallery on Lichfield Street.

Oliver Postgate’s voice and Peter Firmin’s puppets shaped the childhood memories of millions since they started collaborating in the 1950s. As well as telling the story of Bagpuss and the Clangers, the exhibition from the V&A Museum of Childhood goes behind the scenes of some of their other creations, including Pogles’ Wood, Noggin the Nog and Ivor the Engine.

Enter the world of Smallfilms to discover original puppets, sets, and filming equipment and see how characters developed over time and learn how Oliver and Peter developed their stop-frame animation techniques. You can also have a go yourself using 21st-century technology.

Alongside ‘Clangers, Bagpuss & Co.’ visitors to the gallery will also be able to see ‘TV Puppets: Icons from 80 Years of Entertainment’ curated in partnership with the National Puppetry Archive.

From the earliest TV puppets such as Soko and Muffin the Mule to familiar characters that have entertained recent generations, this exhibition features a delightful array of original creations. Exhibits range from simple hand puppets such as Iver from The Hoobs to elaborate marionettes such as Lady Penelope and Parker from Thunderbirds. Audience favourites such as Basil Brush and caricatures from ITV’s Spitting Image are also on show.

Carol Thompson, Curator for Wolverhampton Art Gallery, said: “The exhibitions have been really popular and we have welcomed thousands of people of all ages through the doors.

“We hope visitors take these final couple of weeks to see these two exhibitions and are inspired to share their memories of these iconic characters and TV shows.”

The gallery opening times are Monday to Saturday (10.30am – 4.30pm) and Sunday (11am – 4pm).