Weekly News From Derbyshire Times - Peak and Dales

COUNCIL chiefs have approved controversial plans to switch off thousands of Derbyshire street lights at night.

A CARE home is celebrating after scoring top marks from council watchdogs during a spot inspection.

Remploy claims its new partnership with R Healthcare has helped its Chesterfield footwear factory secure an important contract with the NHS and provide employment and training.

DRINK lovers are set to descend upon Chesterfield’s Winding Wheel for a popular annual beer festival.

PARENTS are campaigning for safety measures outside a pre-school after an accident and several near-misses.

AN historic landmark which vanished from the top of a listed monument at a Peak District beauty spot has been found.

HUNDREDS of jobs will go at Derbyshire County Council over the next year as part of tough budget cuts.

POLICE are urging residents to have their say on the force’s spending decisions.

A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of robbery after a handbag was snatched in Shirebrook.

THE number of police officers in England has fallen to its lowest level for a decade – with the biggest reduction in numbers in Derbyshire,.

A DISABLED adventurer who had to be airlifted out of the Antarctic with a life threatening illness has made it safely home in time to celebrate his birthday with family.

BUDDING entrepreneurs from schools showcased their talents at a glittering Oscar style business awards ceremony.

PROTESTERS have taken to the streets to rally against controversial cost-cutting plans to shut youth clubs.

SCHOOLS in Derbyshire are being urged to come forward to take part in a national first aid competition aimed at equipping the next generation with the skills to save lives.

POLICE have issued CCTV images of a man they would like to speak to in connection with an investigation into the theft of Blu-Ray films, games and books from Sainsbury’s store, in Ripley.

A CONTROVERSIAL ‘bedroom tax’ could leave Derbyshire families over £500 a year out of pocket.

PREGNANT women who smoke will be paid to quit the habit in a controversial NHS scheme being piloted across NE Derbyshire.

LIBRARIES across the country may be closing but in Chesterfield business is booming following a three-week refurbishment.

AN ARSONIST who set fire to another man’s car has been jailed for two years.

DOG WALKERS are being urged to lap up a fundraising romp for Chesterfield’s Ashgate Hospice.