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Friday, August 01, 2008, 09:20

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GREEN FUTURE: Wildlife experts and councillors teamed up to examine the new West Midlands biodiversity pledge at Consall Nature Park on Friday, July 25. Cheadle Councillor Barrie Mycock, countryside ranger Adrian Bell and forestry officer Stephanie Wickison got down among the undergrowth to demonstrate the importance of the new pledge in protecting wildlife across Staffordshire. The pledge, signed on July 9 by Staffordshire County Council leader John Taylor, acknowledges that wildlife has a vital role to play in enhancing well-being and quality of life. By signing up to the pledge, Staffordshire County Council has committed to putting wildlife at the heart of its future plans and to enhance the already impressive biodiversity. Consall Nature Park was the second visit on the pledge's countywide whistle-stop tour, and is important because of its ancient woodland. It is believed that there has been woodland at Consall for at least the past 400 years and 80 per cent of the nature reserve is a SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Importance). Councillor Mycock said that Consall Nature Park was the perfect place to celebrate the pledge. He said: “Consall Nature Park is one of Staffordshire's most beautiful nature reserves As local county councillor for the area I am really proud that Consall Nature Park is on my patch and that Staffordshire County Council has been key to its protection.”

BETTER TOGETHER? Unison officials have raised concerns about job losses as a result of a link-up between two neighbouring councils. The strategic alliance between Staffordshire Moorlands District Council and High Peak Borough Council involves a total workforce of about 700. Staffordshire Moorlands District Council chief executive Simon Baker has been appointed as the joint chief executive since it was first formed in January, and has equal responsibility for both authorities. They are the first councils in the country to form such an alliance and more are expected to follow. But Unison is concerned that vacant posts are not being filled. A report to yesterday's meeting of the district council's cabinet states: “Unison outlined its concerns that it was starting to get negative feedback regarding the potential non-replacement of vacant posts. The points raised will be passed onto senior management.” The partnership is working to provide improved services on joint projects such as providing more affordable houses.

AIR SHOT: Rounders players are getting in the swing to raise money for the air ambulance and first responders. An estimated 130 players making 13 teams are expected to enter the event in the village of Wetton on Saturday. Organiser Nicky Drummond, from the Old Vicarage Country House Bed and Breakfast, said: “The event has been sponsored by the Robbie Williams charity Give It Sum and also by many other local firms and businesses.” “It will be a massive rounders tournament followed by a barbecue and great prize raffle. “Local people of all ages sizes and shapes will be coming along to help us make as much money as possible. “Refreshments will be provided by the local PCC.” The tournament is set to start at 3pm on Wetton playing fields.

 

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