GOOD SAMARITANS

POLICE are tracing two good Samaritans who helped a young woman that was assaulted.

The pair, described as being Eastern European or possibly Polish, separated two women near the Swanswell Tavern, in Primrose Hill Street, Hillfields.

The 17-year-old victim from Radford was assaulted by another woman who was walking by just before 7pm on Sunday December 13.

The victim was not seriously hurt but she shaken up, the offender left the scene heading towards Swanswell Park.

Police are appealing for any witnesses, especially the two men who intervened, to come forward.

Anyone with information can officers at Little Park Street police station on 0845 113 5000.

'POPPY' THEFT MAN JAILED

A “DESPICABLE” thief who stole a poppy collection tin on Remembrance Day in Coventry has been jailed.

Trevor Kelly, of Wellington Street, Hillfields, swiped a British Legion charity box from Barclays bank, in Daventry Road, Cheylesmore, just two hours after people across the city stood in respectful silence to commemorate fallen war heroes.

The 33-year-old had already stolen two other poppy donation boxes in the days leading up to Armistice Day. He took one containing £30 from the Belgrade Theatre on November 6 and another, estimated to have held about £50 in spare change, three days later from Hogans Bar and Bistro in Keresley.

Kelly also made off with a collection jar for charity Water Aid from the Premier Inn hotel, in Kenpas Highway, on November 28.

He was arrested on December 10 by a police officer who recognised him from CCTV stills that had been circulated among cops.

Last Friday, Kelly appeared before Coventry Magistrates Court and was sentenced to 15 weeks imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to four counts of theft, and a further five weeks for failing to appear for an earlier court hearing.

Sergeant Greg Richards, of Little Park Street police station, said: “Kelly always dressed smartly to avoid arousing suspicion but, when left alone or out of view, he’d tear the tin free and conceal it under his clothing.

“We’d always encourage charities to secure collection boxes securely with a metal chain, rather than with string, and certainly not to leave them free-standing.

“To steal money destined for the families of soldiers who have either been killed or injured in conflict is despicable – and even more so on the one day we’re asked to respect their
sacrifices.”

LIFE-SAVER SONGS

BURSTING into song while trying to save someone’s life might not seem appropriate – but it
could lead to a successful resuscitation according to
boffins at Coventry Univer-
sity.

Research by a team at the
university found that singing Nellie the Elephant while
performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) might help keep recommended compression rate of 100 beats per
minute.

A total of 130 untrained CPR staff and students were given a brief demonstration on a resuscitation manikin and had one minute to practice while listening to a metronome – a device that produces regular beats.

Then participants were asked to perform three sequences of continuous chest compressions each lasting one minute.

One was accompanied by no music, another with repeated choruses of Nellie the Elephant and finally listening to That’s the Way (I Like It) by KC and the Sunshine Band.

Both songs were chosen for their tempo – 105 beats per minute for Nellie the Elephant and 109bpm for the latter.

Results found just under a third of those listening to Nellie delivered compression rates close to 100bpm compared with 12 per cent for no music and nine per cent for KC and the Sunshine Band.

But it also increased the proportion of compressions delivered at an inadequate depth.

Professor Malcolm Woollard, Coventry University’s director of the pre-hospital, emergency and cardiovascular care applied research group, has been carrying out the research with a team.

The serving paramedic of 25 years said: “Nellie the Elephant along with The Archers has been recommended by resuscitation trainers for as long as I can remember, so people get the right compression rate.

“Although the method is a bit tongue-in-cheek the results are genuine and will hopefully help people to carry out CPR correctly.

“It’s important people are trained because it’s usually a friend or family member that will need CPR, so everyone should be motivated to learn.

“Although difficult to remember, there isn’t a bad way of
doing it, just ways of doing it better. You cause more harm by not attempting CPR at all and it’s a myth the procedure gets the heart going again. It doesn’t, it only keeps the blood pumping until paramedics arrive.

“Behind all this we are trying to find a good rhythm to help carry out CPR. But we’re still looking for that tune so
welcome any suggestions!”

What do you think? If you have any songs that could work write to us or email timesletters@mrn.co.uk.

DELAYS AT RAILWAY STATION

PASSENGERS queued for up to 30 minutes at Coventry railway station to get a ticket claim union leaders.

They have launched a fresh attack over the closure of railway ticket offices after claiming the queue in Coventry reached a record 100 metres over the weekend.

The Transport Salaried Staffs Association (TSSA) said passengers had to wait up to 30 minutes on Saturday December 12 to buy tickets, with “harassed” staff telling some travellers to pay at the end of their journey.

The union is balloting more than 120 Virgin Trains workers at 14 stations between London Euston and Glasgow on strike action in a row over closures, with the result due on December 23.

Stations include Watford, Milton Keynes, Rugby, Birmingham New Street, Wolverhampton, Stafford, Crewe, Manchester, Preston and Carlisle.

Any industrial action will not be held until the New Year.

The union said the Coventry queue snaked 100 metres across the concourse to the entrance door, and would have stretched out on to the pavement if many passengers had not bought tickets from machines.

Gerry Doherty, TSSA’s general secretary, said: “It’s simply outrageous passengers are now forced to wait 30 minutes to even buy a ticket and face an even worse service in the New Year.

“They already pay the highest fares in Europe and yet they are treated like cattle. A standard return from London to Manchester costs £247 - it is cheaper to fly Virgin to New York than it is to get a return ticket on one of their trains to Manchester.

“Last week Richard Branson talked about flying tourists to the moon. He should concentrate on planet earth and provide an affordable railway where the passenger comes first, not last.”

A spokesman for Virgin Trains said: “Despite the best efforts of station staff to sell tickets, passengers were being asked to purchase tickets on trains. A message was sent to on-train staff advising of the situation. We apologise to any customer who was inconvenienced.”

Were you effected by long queues at the train station or have an opinion? If so write to us or email timesletters@mrn.co.uk.

MORE TURBULENCE AT CITY AIRPORT

COVENTRY Airport could be forced into liquidation amid rumours of spiralling debt.

The airport, in Baginton, is facing an uncertain future after the company that owns it was served a petition to ‘wind up’ its business.

Bosses at the city’s airport – which has been up for sale since May of this year – are due to appear in court next week.

The petition was handed over to airport owners, West Midlands International Airport, on October 23 and a hearing is due to take place at London’s Royal Courts of Justice on Wednesday December 9.

The application was made to the High Court by HM Revenue and Customs.

If the court grants the petition and makes the winding-up order, Coventry Airport will be placed into compulsory liquidation.

Brian Cox, airport director, said: “West Midlands International Airport is aware of the High Court petition and is actively seeking a solution. No further comment will be made at this time.”

The airport has had an unsettled year.

In November 2008 the Times exclusively reported that Thomsonfly would be pulling out all its flights from Coventry, just one month after Wizz Air pulled its flights from the city to Poland.

Thomsonfly operated 35 flights to eight destinations across Europe each week and the airline had been due to launch four new routes this summer.

But airport bosses remained optimistic and continued to insist that the company was still open for business.

In August the company invested in an Executive Jet Centre to handle the growing number of executive aviation movements and cargo.

Coventry Airport teamed up with luxury chauffeur drive company, First Class Cars, to provide top of the range ground transportation for clients using the centre.

A month later, airport bosses revealed they were in discussions with an interested buyer, but refused to say who it was.

CONSULTATIONS OF SCHOOL EXPANSIONS

CONSULTATIONS on plans to expand 17 primary schools in Coventry got underway this week.

The proposals have been drawn up in response to a rising birth rate over recent years.

As the Times reported in December last year, an influx of families moving into the area and the city’s booming birth rate has caused education bosses to look at expanding several primary schools to cater for extra children.

Figures released by Coventry’s Primary Care Trust showed that in 2000 there were 3,600 babies born – this increased by nearly 30 per cent in 2008 to 4,500 births a year.

Now the PCT and information from GP surgeries have indicated there could be a deficit of 411 reception year places in September 2012.

Work has already gone into addressing this issue with 15 primary schools due to be expanded by September 2010.

During the consultations officials will also be looking at 17 schools, which have been identified as having the potential to expand either by September 2011 or 2012.

These range from utilising existing accommodation, installing modular classrooms and partial and complete new builds.

The consultations, which last until January 25, 2010, will include a public meeting at each of the 17 schools, where people can see an outline of proposals and have a chance to give views and opinions.

Councillor John Blundell, cabinet member for children, learning and young people, said: “The consultation is very important as it gives us the opportunity to get a variety of different views on how our primary schools should evolve in the future and I would encourage people to find the time to take part and let us know what they think.”

For more information on the proposals and to take part in the consultation, visit www.coventry.gov.uk/schoolconsultation.

The primary schools involved in the consultation are:

September 2011

*Allesley

*Hearsall

*Henley Green

*Holbrook

*John Gulson

*Moseley

*Southfields

*Spon Gate

*Stoke Heath

September 2012

*Alderman’s Green

*Grange Farm

*Howes

*Moat House

*Sacred Heart

*St Augustine’s

*St Bartholomew’s

*St Osburg’s.

TRUST HITS BACK AT HEALTH REPORT

THE HEALTH trust running Coventry’s super hospital has been named as the country’s third worst performing in the country.

The Hospital Guide, published by the Dr Foster organisation, lists University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire Trust (UHCW), as one of the worst for patient safety standards.

It put Coventry joint third based on 13 separate criteria which includes a range of mortality figures, the overall death rate and that for heart attack and stroke patients, the death rate for people admitted with hip fractures and those who were taken to hospital for low-risk procedures or diagnoses.

But Coventry’s University Hospital has challenged the findings of the report.

It has been rated “good” by the official health regulator, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and a spokesman for the hospital trust said various inspections over the last year prove it is not failing patients.

Kerry Beadling, communications officer for UHCW, said: “Dr Foster uses the results of a questionnaire survey, as well as other submitted data. However, the methodology used for overall assessment has not been shared and the Trust believes the data on which the analysis was run was incomplete in relation to UHCW Trust.

“We would like to reassure our patients and public that UHCW prioritises patient safety at all times and the Dr Foster rating does not accurately reflect this, as evidenced by a number of in-depth, onsite, independent reviews.”

She added that in 2008/9 there have been 40 per cent fewer cases
of C.Difficile than in the previous
year while mortality rates have decreased for three years in a row.

Paul Jennings, chief executive of NHS Warwickshire, also defended UHCW.

He said. “We know UHCW very well and we have a much more complete picture than that given just by statistics. The new data from Dr Foster only adds a tiny fraction to that. UHCW is a good hospital trust and patients can be confident of high-quality NHS care when they go there.”

But Roger Taylor, the director of Dr Foster, defended his guide and said more information about trusts should be made public.

He said: “No hospital in the world would claim to be free of these kinds of errors but what has been learned is that recording what is happening and making that information public is the best way to start tackling the issues.”

What do you think of Coventry’s University Hospital? Write to us or email timesletters@mrn.co.uk.

LOWEST COUNCIL TAX RISE IN 10 YEARS

BUDGET plans have revealed next year’s council tax rise of 2.4 per cent will be the lowest in over 10 years.

Band A households – 41 per cent of all Coventry homes – will pay around £20 extra on top of this year’s £923.89 bill.

Council leaders say it amounts to 40p a week more and Band B households – a third of Coventry homes – will pay about 46p a week more.

It will be the lowest rise since 1997 and is down on last year’s 3.8 per cent increase.

Final council tax bills will be calculated after the emergency services set their portion of the rates – a small percentage of overall bills.

But under the same plans, around 80 more jobs will be lost at the council as part of a £10 million cuts programme to balance recession-hit books.

This includes “streamlining management structures” by cutting 10 senior management posts and 69 other jobs.

This follows 190 job cuts from this year that included 33 vacant posts.

Council services and outside bodies asked to make cuts or savings include adult social care, community centres and youth services, libraries, the performing arts service, neighbourhood services, grounds maintenance and the trusts running museums and sports centres.

The budget will also help fund multi-million pound borrowing and preparations for private finance initiatives, including the £1billion plan for a new waste incinerator, a £300million schools rebuilding programme, and replacing the city’s street lights.

Charities will take another cut of three per cent in council funding.

Councillor Kevin Foster, cabinet member of finance, procurement and value for money, said: “I’m delighted we’ve managed to protect frontline services and keep the rise in council tax below the rate of increase in state pensions, despite immense pressure on public spending expected over the next few years.

“Our priority has been to support our residents as much as possible during these difficult economic times.”

The budget plans are expected to be approved by the Conservative cabinet on Tuesday December 8.

CHRISTMAS DRINK/DRIVE CRACKDOWN LAUNCHED

WEST Midlands Police launched their Christmas crackdown campaign to stop drink and drug drivers this week.

Since Tuesday Coventry officers have been on high-visibility patrols and they will also be setting up a number of static checkpoints at various locations to carry out roadside spot checks throughout the Christmas and New Year period.

Those arrested for drink driving may also find themselves drug tested as part of the Drug Interventions Programme.

PC Steve Rogers, from the force’s traffic unit, said: “Drink driving is an issue all year, but with the more relaxed atmosphere during the Christmas and New Year period, the temptation to offend becomes greater.

“We urge people not to put their friends, families or members of the public at risk by drink or drug driving.

“Passengers can also help by refusing to be driven by someone who has been drinking or taking drugs, and by appointing a designated driver.

“Remember that by drinking alcohol the night before you could still be over the drink drive limit well into the following day. There is no such thing as a ‘safe’ limit and the answer is not to drink at all if you are driving.

“If you are caught drink driving or driving while under the influence of drugs, the consequences could be wide-ranging, including the loss of your driving licence, which will in turn affect your career and family life. Ultimately you could go to prison. It’s not worth the risk.

“Driving while unfit through drugs is just as dangerous; this includes driving under the influence of prescribed medication and over-the-counter products as well as illegal substances. These can affect perception, concentration and reaction times.”

In last year’s campaign more than 20,000 drivers were stopped, of which 4,155 were breathalysed, compared to 3,420 tests carried out in 2007.

Of those, 12.7 per cent tested positive, a drop on the previous year’s percentage of 12.8 per cent.

Nationally, almost one in seven of all road deaths involve drivers who are over the legal limit.

Research shows men in their 20s and 50s are most likely to offend.

ENVIRONMENT GROUP UP FOR NATIONAL AWARD

AN ENVIRONMENTAL group set up in the Wood End area of Coventry is up for a prestigious national award.

Eco - Way To Go, which started up 18 months ago in the New Deals for Community area, is up for the Phillips Lawrence Award.

It celebrates outstanding contributions made by young people in their community and who also challenge negative stereotypes and perceptions.

Eco - Way To Go consists of 14 members aged seven to 18. They meet once a month and tackle environmental issues such as making the area look clean and green and encouraging wildlife.

Roles such as chairman and secretary are undertaken by younger people to provide them with an opportunity to learn new skills, gain confidence and have trust placed on them.

Nicole Heaney, a youth support officer, who started the group, said: “I am really proud of the members and this nomination is completely about them and their hard work.

“It would be so great to win just because of the sheer hard work everyone puts in.

“It’s really helped to build their confidence and would be good if they were recognised for it.”

Some of the activities the young people have taken part in include, four litter picking days where they collected around 100 bags of rubbish and meeting with two government ministers to talk about local issues.

Group member Luke Bates, nine, said: “I like doing the cleaning things because I want to look after the environment. I have lots of fun working with the group, like when we’re litter picking in Henley Green.

“I would like to stay a member for a long time.”

The award ceremony, which takes place on December 8, was set up in 2007 in memory of head teacher Philip Lawrence who was murdered outside his school, in December 1995.

Frances Lawrence, widow of Philip Lawrence and founder of the awards, said: “It is always inspiring for judges to read nominations from across the country which describe how young people are working to improve their communities.

“In remote rural areas and in the midst of large cities they create projects which imaginatively tackle problems of crime, discrimination, and anti-social behaviour.”

Winners of the award, hosted by Sir Trevor McDonald, receive £1,000.

DEFIBRILLATORS FOR CITY

COUNCIL venues across the city will stock defibrillators to provide vital life-saving help to people suffering heart attacks.

Coventry City Council is to spend £15,000 on 15 automated external defibrillators (AED) that can be used if someone suffers from a cardiac arrest.

West Midlands Ambulance Service will be training staff members to use the AED, which is a computerised device that check heart rhythm and recognise if it needs a shock.

A decision to buy the equipment was made at a council meeting last week.

Councillor Kevin Foster, cabinet member for finance, procurement and value for money, said: “If the victim of a heart attack gets the right kind of help as soon as possible, then their chances of survival are vastly improved.

“Many people either work in, or visit council buildings everyday, so it makes sense for us to invest in buying the AEDs.

“The cost of this equipment is £15,000, but the value of one life saved cannot be estimated.”

The 15 locations, which are given below, have been selected based on factors, including the number of staff and visitors and the ambulance response times to different areas.

*Council House

*Civic Centre One

*Broadgate House

*Faseman House

*Registrar’s Office

*Central Library

*Maurice Edelman House

*Harry Caplan House

*George Rowley House

*Cottage farm Lodge

*Canley Community Centre

*Bell Green Community Centre

*Coombe Country Park

*Allesley Hall Park/Golf Course

*War Memorial Park

RATE QUALITY OF LIFE IN COVENTRY

THOUSANDS of Coventry people are being interviewed as part of one of the biggest surveys looking at the quality of life in Coventry.

Around 3,500 people will have face-to-face household interviews during December, with an opportunity for residents to complete the survey online too.

The poll will collect views on community involvement, housing, environment, health and wellbeing, community safety and transport, with results being announced in February 2010.

The research, being carried out by the Coventry Household Survey, will also gather information to assess physical and mental well-being, as well as any potential health or lifestyle inequalities.

Councillor Ken Taylor, leader of Coventry City Council said that local services should be tailored to meet the needs of a changing population and the survey will help improve the quality public services.

He added: “People know what their priorities are and it’s important to provide the right services at the right times. Public services must improve and become even more effective and efficient. This survey will help us deliver them in the best way possible.

“For the first time the community can reply online and we really do value their opinions.”

The survey, in its sixth year, is funded by Coventry’s Primary Care Trust, the council and has been commissioned by the Coventry Partnership.

Stephen Banbury, chair of Coventry Partnership, said: “This survey gives Coventry people the opportunity to let us know their views of local services and it is important that as many households as possible complete the survey, so that partners know where to improve services.”

The online survey is for people aged 16 and over until December 24.

Visit www.coventry.gov.uk/householdsurvey.

CITY CLIMBING GREEN LIST

COVENTRY has just missed featuring in the top 10 list of being one of the most sustainable cities in the country.

But coming in at 11th, Coventry has risen three places from last year and is top of the table for cities representing the West Midlands.

The third annual Sustainable Cities Index by Forum for the Future published last week also shows the city is making a steady progress, as in 2007 Coventry was 17th.

Every year Forum for the Future, a sustainable development charity, tracks the progress on sustainability of Britain’s 20 largest cities.

Cities are ranked according to their performance against 13 indicators based on environmental performance, quality of life and planning for the future.

On environmental performance the city was ranked fifth due to its strong performance on ecological footprint, in particular on biodiversity as 49 per cent of sites in the city have undergone conservation in the past five years.

In the area of quality of life, the city improved its performance from 18th to 13th because of an improvement in the accessibility of public services such as schools and GPs via the transport network.

Councillor Nigel Lee, cabinet member for climate change, housing and sustainability, said: “I’m very pleased Coventry has continued to improve its sustainability performance against the other major cities in Britain.

“We recognise we still have a long way to go.

“It’s critical Coventry is seen as a sustainable place to live, work and invest so we can both, raise the quality of life for residents and attract new businesses to transform the city.

“I look forward to seeing our ranking in this sustainability league improve further next year as initiatives like the blue bin recycling scheme and our activities on climate change really start to feed in to the assessment process.”

On how well-prepared the city is for the future and how central sustainability issues are to the city’s plans, Coventry was ranked 10th improving from 16th in 2007.

PUB UNDER MACHETE ATTACK

TWO men wielding a machete and a sword burst into a Coventry pub.

Around 35 people were enjoying a Saturday night drink in the Devonshire Arms, in Seawall Highway, Wyken, when the two men stormed in wrestling the doormen.

An eye-witness, who had been at the pub with friends contacted the Times.

The witness, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “It was about half-past 10 when two men burst into the pub, fighting off the security guards at the door.

“One was carrying either a machete or a large sword and the second guy was definitely carrying a machete.

“There was a great, big, kerfuffle at the door, but the management were just fantastic.

“They managed to keep everyone calm and some of the customers even helped the bouncers push the men back out.

“It happened quite quickly, it was over in five minutes, but I didn’t feel threatened.

“The men were shouting something, but because of the music we couldn’t hear what they were saying.”

A spokesman for the pub said: “The Devonshire Arms is a popular and friendly local pub and this was a completely isolated and unmotivated incident involving a small group that had been refused entry by our door supervisors.

“Some of the group used force to temporarily enter the pub, but were quickly made to leave by the quick actions of the door team.

“We have contacted Police and provided CCTV footage to them to help with their investigations.”

FIREFIGHTER'S FUNERAL

HUNDREDS of firefighters are set to line the streets of Coventry to pay their respects to city fireman Paul Gibbons.

Up to 200 West Midlands Fire Service officers, dressed in ceremonial uniform, are expected to form a guard of honour at Mr Gibbons’ funeral at Holy Family RC Church, in Parkgate Road, on Thursday.

A small contingent of firefighters will accompany the coffin inside the church.

A representative from the service will also be among those speaking at the service, which is due to begin at 11am.

Mr Gibbons died after an attack at Millsy’s Cafe Bar in Earlsdon Street, Earlsdon on Sunday October 25.

The husband and dad-of-two died the next day, as a result of his injuries.

The 41-year-old joined West Midlands Fire Service 12 years ago after a career in the navy.

He was stationed at Canley Fire Station which was inundated with flowers and messages left by those wanting to pay their respects.

Mr Gibbons was also a manager at city football club Sphinx FC.

Coventry operations commander Simon Shilton explained there will be a large fire service presence at the funeral upon the request Mr Gibbons’ family.

He said: “Paul was very well respected and very popular within the service – he had many, many friends.

“We are expecting a high turn out.”

Mr Gibbons’ family have requested that donations, if desired, should be made payable to A J Lloyd Charity Account to be distributed between a trust fund for Mr Gibbons’ children and The Fire Fighter Charity. A J Lloyd can be contacted by calling 024 7633 1900.

Shane Walford – also known as Shane Junior – aged 33, has been charged with the murder of Mr Gibbons.

He is due to appear at Warwick Crown Court in the New Year.

KIDNAP WARNING

A KIDNAP warning has gone out to parents after a nine-year-old Coventry schoolgirl was approached by a strange man in a car.

Police are investigating the incident that happened near Alderman’s Green Primary School, Alderman’s Green Road, between 8.30am and 8.50am last Thursday.

The girl was approached by a man in a blue car but she made off and told a teacher.

Anyone with information should call Coventry police on 0845 113 5000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

OFFICE STAR TO SWITCH ON CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

THE Office star Martin Freeman will be switching on Coventry’s Christmas lights this year.
The 38-year-old actor will join Midlands soul queen Beverley Knight and Coventry acts Harmony Hood and Eliot Evans on Sunday November 29.
Freeman, who is also noted for his role as Arthur Dent in the Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy, is no stranger to the city.
He is one of the lead characters in Coventry-born director Debbie Issit’s Christmas blockbuster called Nativity that was filmed in and around the city.
He plays Mr Maddens, the headteacher of a primary school that rivals a private school and desperately wants his kids to have the best nativity play.
Mick McLaughlin, marketing and communications manager for city centre manager CV One, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Martin Freeman is returning to Coventry to switch on the Christmas Lights this year.
“It really is fitting as he’s appearing in the Christmas blockbuster Nativity which was filmed right in the heart of the city. It really is the icing on the cake for what promises to be a spectacular day of family entertainment.”
The musical showcase will take place on the Travelodge as Merica FM presenters kick things off at 3.30pm. It follows an array of live performances and entertainment before the lights are switched on at 5pm.

NEW PLANS FOR OLD JAG SITE

THE former Browns Lane Jaguar site is to be renamed Lyons Park and turned into a high-tech business and industrial park.
The development is named after Sir William Lyons, founder of the Swallow Sidecar Company, which evolved into Jaguar Cars after the Second World War.
Developers Goodman, who bought the site in 2007 and Advantage West Midlands, have put the plans together.
Plans for the 39 hectare site include 800,000 sq ft of space for industrial and distribution use, 75,000 sq ft of office space and 172 homes.
Graham Pardoe, Goodman’s development director for UK Logistics, said: “Coventry has a long and proud legacy as a city of innovation, industry and technology.
“Lyons Park will provide the opportunity for organic growth of this heritage, offering the opportunity for small to medium businesses as well as national companies to locate to a first class development.
“In re-branding the site we were determined to create a new identity while recognising the site’s heritage. We feel that Lyons Park is a fitting name which gives the development a strong identity.”
Steve Holland, head of asset management at AWM, added: “The planning permission for the development of Lyons Park marks another important milestone in the regeneration and redevelopment of Coventry.
“Alongside other major projects such as Ansty Park, Lyons Park will play an important part in strengthening the city’s contribution to the West Midland’s economy by attracting manufacturing companies to the region and creating more jobs for local people.”
Consultations with Coventry City Council have been held and work on the site’s infrastructure is expected to be finished by April 2010.
Jaguar Land Rover director Julian Hetherington said: “It is excellent news that the plans to redevelop the former Jaguar site at Browns Lane in Coventry have been approved and we are of course delighted that Sir William Lyons’ achievements are remembered with the choice of name for the development.”

THIRD SECTOR COULD BE SILENCED

CHRISTMAS parties and fundraising events could be
silenced by music scrooges who will charge voluntary organisations for playing music.

A new system, which starts in April 2010, means community groups will have to apply for a licence that pays for artists’ royalty fees – or not play music at all.

The fee, which is still being
decided, will go towards to the composers, protected by the Phonographic Performance Ltd (PPL) and performers protected by the Performance Rights Society (PRS for
Music).

But it has left small groups outraged that precious money raised to help their cause will be wasted on buying the licence.

The Mercia MS Therapy Centre, in Macefield Close, Aldermans Green, needs around £130,000 a year to run its centre for people with multiple sclerosis.

Terina Fellows, centre administrator, said: “It’s always difficult to raise money, but this year we are finding it even harder.

“It’s not fair that charitable groups have to pay. Even if it doesn’t cost much, it will soon add up.

“We regularly have get-togethers with ex-members or Christmas
parties where we play music.

“I guess we’ll have to have the party in silence or sing to ourselves if we can’t afford the licence.”

And homeless charity Emmaus, based in Brinklow Road, Binley, echoed these thoughts.

Kieron Dunne, of Emmaus, said: “We want any money we raise to go to our cause and not to pay the
artists.

“I guess they have been hit hard
because of downloads and I can appreciate they need to claw back money from that, but it seems
harsh they’re targeting charities.

“We want to be law-abiding, but if the price is quite high then we might have to re-think any summer fetes or events we were planning that would involve music.”

The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) is asking for PPL and PRS to review the decision.

Stuart Etherington, chief executive
of NCVO, said: “It is shameful that money intended for charitable causes will go on paying royalties for
playing music.

“Events like these often raise no more than a few hundred pounds but this is vital income for charities.

“This scheme will make it
impossible for small community-based charities or organisations to play music at their social and fundraising events because of the cost involved.

“It will effectively spell the death of the charity tea dance in a village hall or a fund-raising disco in aid of a good cause.

“We call on PPL and PRS for
Music to review this decision and not charge organisations who are fundraising for the good of their com-munity.”

But the music companies have
defended their decision and said they are conforming to EU laws that were passed in the ’90s.

Fran Nevrkla, PPL’s chief executive
officer, said: “This is a welcome move by the government which gives our performers and record companies equivalent rights to those enjoyed throughout the rest of Europe.

“We have already started the
dialogue with the charity umbrella organisations and we are determined to reach an agreement with them which is both easy to administer
and fair to the charities and to the musicians and labels who produce the music they wish to use.”

What do you think? Write to us or email timesletters@mrn.co.uk.

TASER GUNS USED TWICE IN CITY

POLICE used their Taser guns on two suspects during the first week of a city-wide roll out.

Officers say two potentially violent incidents were calmly resolved in the Wood End and Willenhall areas of the city after the Tasers were deployed.

On Thursday November 12 cops were called to a third-floor flat in Willenhall following reports of a man smashing windows.

The man, who is understood to have mental health problems, at first refused to leave his flat.

When he did come out onto the landing, the man threatened to harm officers and himself, prompting officers to use the device.

Two days earlier one of the devices were used by officers in Wood End.

Officers were called to a house in Winston Avenue after a man was seen brandishing two large knives.

Police arrived at the scene just after 11.30pm and attempted to get the man to leave the house.

Officers deemed the man was a danger to himself, the public and to police and a Taser was used.

Once the situation was resolved the man was arrested and later charged in connection with the incident.

Previously the 50,000 volt device, which temporarily incapacitate targets and cause them to “freeze” or fall to the ground, had only been used by firearms officers.

But from November, 80 Pcs have been trained to use the weapons, which means officers in Coventry now have 24-hour access to them for use in certain situations.

The Taser uses an electrical current to temporarily disrupt the control of a suspect’s muscles.

But a spokesman for the force says in nearly half of the cases, the mere presence of the Taser was enough to deter a violent offender from becoming more aggressive.

Chief Superintendent Steve Glover, of Little Park Street police station, said: “These are two incidents that have been resolved with no-one getting hurt.

“Before Tasers officers used batons and incapacity spray.

“Officers think they are wonderful - they allow them to keep a safe distance between them and the suspects.

“And no-one has been hurt, which is what we want.”

SHOOTING UPDATE

FOUR people have been quizzed by detectives investigating the attempted murder of a businessman that was shot in the legs.

In the horrific attack, the 28-year-old dad was blasted as he sat in his car outside his home in Narrowboat Close, Longford.

He was fired at in the leg four times.

The shooting happened just after 9am on Saturday October 10. Detectives believe the attacker waited for more than two-and-a-half hours for the victim to come out of his house and get in to his car.

They say the gunman strolled over to the car, smashed the driver’s window and shot him four times in his right leg.

The attacker drove away in a red Ford Focus Flight, which was discovered abandoned the following day.

The close-range shooting left the victim’s leg broken.

After a several weeks in hospital he was allowed to return home, but is still receiving medical treatment.

A visible police presence has remained in the quiet residential area ever since.

On Monday three men and a woman were arrested on suspicion of conspiring to commit murder and were being questioned by Warwickshire detectives.

Two of the men - aged 26 and 24 - were arrested in Solihull, while a third, aged 24, was arrested in Winson Green, Birmingham, and a 26-year-old woman from Edgbaston in Birmingham was also taken into police custody.

While the suspects are being questioned, officers are continuing to appeal for witnesses to the shooting to come forward to help them with the inquiry.

Anyone with information is urged to call Warwickshire Police on 01926 415000.

Information can also be passed to police in confidence via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.

TRADERS WELCOME RE-OPENING OF ROAD

A CITY centre road that has been shut for two years was re-opened at the weekend to the delight of traders in the area.

After a lengthy campaign by retailers in the Lower Precinct, City Arcade and Coventry Market, the city council has re-opened Croft Road’s junction with Queen Victoria Road.

The junction next to Ikea was closed to traffic, except buses and taxis, when the Swedish furniture giant moved in.

The intention was to divert all traffic apart from Ikea customers to the next junction of the ring road amid fears there could be traffic chaos with scores of customers visiting the store.

But traders and shoppers who signed a petition for the road to be re-opened said that its closure cut off the south part of the city centre to traffic and damaged trade.

Shop owners are now happy about the decision.

Kewal Talwadia, joint partner of natural health shop Drop In The Ocean, in the City Arcade, said: “This is a positive step and I thank the council for re-opening the road.

“When it closed two years ago we definitely noticed fewer numbers of people coming through but hopefully this will increase footfall again.”

Jackie Logan, manager of Silver Glade jewellery store in the City Arcade, added: “This will help get people into this area of the city centre. We needed to get the traffic flowing to this part and get some life back.”

The petition, which will be considered at a council meeting in the new year, also calls for other measures to help reverse a decline in business, including a circulatory bus route in the city centre.

Councillor Gary Ridley, cabinet member for city development, said the opening of Ikea had not generated the high levels of traffic predicted or led to tailbacks on the ring road and Allesley Old Road.

He said.: “There hasn’t been the level of traffic we initially expected and so we’ve decided to re-open Croft Road again.

“It won’t take long to change road markings and signs, so hopefully footfall will increase.”

LANDLORD LINE

LANDLORDS that suspect their tenants are involved in criminal activity can now report information anonymously via a new police hotline.

Around 2,500 landlords across Coventry have received letters encouraging them to participate in the ‘Tenant Watch’ scheme.

Information provided this year by property owners has led to lodgers being prosecuted for a range of crimes, including drugs offences, identity fraud, vehicle crime and prostitution.

But Coventry police believe the number will persuade more landlords to come forward and voice any concerns.

Acting Sergeant Carolyn Witts, of Chace Avenue police station, said: “There is a lot of shared accommodation in the city; landlords may well stumble across evidence of, or hear about, criminal activity.

“I know of landlords who have seen stolen goods, weapons or drugs when visiting their properties. Tenant Watch makes it easier for them to reach a specialist officer and offers anonymity so they can speak to us in confidence.

“We’re not asking landlords to spy on tenants. We simply want them to be aware of what’s going on in their properties and to let us know if they’ve any concerns over their tenants’ activities or behaviour.”

Sgt Witts also said that there had been strong interest from landlords in the initiative, and has stressed they have nothing to fear from reporting criminal activity discovered in a property they own.

She added: “It seems some landlords believe they could be liable for anything untoward found at one of their properties. This is absolutely not the case and, similarly, it won’t damage their standing as an accredited landlord.

“We just want to offer a single point of contact and an opportunity for landlords to develop a relationship with our Tenant Watch officer.”

Shared accommodation tenants can also use the scheme to report issues or concerns they have with housemates.

The hotline number is 024 7653 9112 or contact crime reduction officer PC Mick Walters, who will oversee Tenant Watch, via email at m.walters@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk.

EU FUNDS COULD HELP ERICSSON WORKERS

A MIDLANDS MEP is urging the government to apply for an EU fund to help the 700 people facing redundancy at Ericsson to find another job.

Liberal Democrat Liz Lynne has said that “UK has been dragging its feet” when it comes to applying for the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund.

It allows EU governments to apply for millions of pounds to support specialist retraining and advice for workers being made redundant due to the financial crisis.

Ms Lynne said: “This announcement by Ericsson is terrible news for Coventry and for the 700 workers affected.

“The recently reformed globalisation adjustment fund could offer real help to staff in finding other work. The threshold for applications was recently cut from 1,000 job losses to 500 and the total amount of money available to governments to fund retraining was increased.

“To qualify, redundancies must affect staff in permanent contracts, not temporary workers.

“From all the information Ericsson has released, it looks as if these conditions would be met and funding could be available, but the UK government must apply for it.

“If accepted, the EU would meet three quarters of the cost of retraining programmes, as long as the government undertakes to fund the rest.

“This would offer a real chance for staff facing redundancy to get top quality retraining and help to find new work suiting their skills as soon as possible.”

It comes after Ericsson announced it would be pulling the plug on its Research and Development site in Ansty Park.

It opened four months ago, but Ericsson wants to relocate to cheaper countries.

Public and private sector organisations came together last week to plan the taskforce in a bid to limit further damage to the region’s economy.

The meeting, chaired by the Coventry, Solihull and Warwickshire Partnership (CSWP), came as the city’s MPs met with trade union Unite to plan a fight for favourable redundancy terms, and to save as many jobs as possible.

Business secretary Lord Mandelson is urging more talks with the Swedish telecommunications giant in a government attempt to alter its cost-cutting plans to move its research and development work abroad.

The taskforce, similar to one set up when French car giant Peugeot pulled the plug on its Ryton factory, will help match any redundant workers to vacancies and provide re-skilling and training.

WORK BEGINS AT SIDNEY STRINGER

A £27 million project to transform a Coventry secondary school began this week.

Work at Sidney Stringer School, in Cox Street, Hillfields, started on Monday by Kier Moss after they won the contract to build the school.

The new academy , which will primarily be funded by government grant, is being delivered through the national academy programme.

The main sponsors of the academy, which is due to open in September 2011, are City College, Coventry City Council, supported by Coventry University and Jaguar Cars.

It will boast features such as a large auditorium with retractable seating, new dining facilities, terracing to allow outdoor performances, an ecological area and a variety of gardens.

In addition students at Sidney Stringer Academy will benefit from the latest technical facilities and be open for the community to use.

The main academy building will be linked to a new sports centre housing a four-court sports hall and fitness suite and traversing wall.

The Academy will also have an “Enterprise and Innovation Centre” in Primrose Hill Street for students aged 14 to 19.

Wendy Tomes, Principal Designate of the new Sidney Stringer Academy, said: “It is wonderful to see work now underway in creating a new building with the facilities that young people in this area deserve.”

Sustainability is a key feature with many environmentally friendly measures, such as energy saving heating and lighting, solar control glazing and renewable sources of energy, included in the design.

LET'S TALK ABOUT SEX

SEX education needs to be brought more into the open and not be “provocative” - that’s the message given by Coventry’s children’s councillor.

It comes after the secretary of state for children, Ed Balls, announced compulsory sex ed classes for children aged 15 from 2011.

Currently parents have the right to pull their children out of classes until they are 19.

The change is to ensure pupils get at least 12 months of sex education before finishing schooling.

And Councillor John Blundell, cabinet member for children, learning and young people, has backed this but also said there needs to be a shake-up of how sex education is taught.

He said: “Currently the sex ed message is failing.

“The term is provocative and could be offensive to certain religious organisations.

“To me the discussion of relationships and the world at large is more important.

“Sex education needs to be a wider subject so it can prepare pupils to move on to the adult world.”

A pilot scheme, changing the way relationship and sex education classes are taught, should be finalised by the end of this month and carried out in four secondary schools across the city.

It comes after a 10 year government strategy costing £2.6 million to reduce teen pregnancy rates in Coventry failed.

During that time there was only a decrease of 1.7 per cent. In the same period towns such as Oldham and Southend slashed their numbers of teen mums by more than a quarter.

In 1998 there were 352 under 18s pregnant, this peaked to 381 in 2002.

And the latest figured also show teen pregnancies have been rising in the city for four consecutive years.

A Christmas and new year safer sex and alcohol campaign will be launched in early December to enforce the message that Coventry promotes safer sex.

A joint statement from Coventry City Council and NHS Coventry said: “We are confident that the measures we are putting into place will reduce the under-18’s conception rate.

“All of our work continues to be reviewed and influenced by what works elsewhere and by what young people and parents or carers are telling us.”l sh

HAWKER SUSPECT REFUSES FOOD

THE prime suspect in the murder of Coventry teacher Lindsay Hawker has refused to eat since he was captured at a ferry port in Japan.

According to Japanese police, Tatsuya Ichihashi has accepted only water and green tea and “has not eaten at all” since he was taken into custody on Tuesday November 11.

The local media is also reporting the 30-year-old has remained silent and is refusing to answer officer’s questions during interrogation.

A Gyotoku Police Department spokesman said: “The suspect has remained silent about the case after he initially told us he has nothing to say.”

They may now have ask a doctor to examine him if he continues to refuse food.

Officers said he could be questioned for up to 20 days before prosecutors decided on a charge.

Ichihashi was arrested on a charge of abandoning a body, rather than the more serious crime of murder and a senior police official described him as “depressed by the shock of being arrested.”

In Japan murder can be punished with the death penalty by hanging, but is usually reserved for cases of multiple homicide.

Ichihashi, who recently underwent plastic surgery to alter his appearance, was arrested as he tried to take a ferry from Osaka to the southern island of Okinawa.

The body of 22-year-old Miss Hawker was found in a sand-filled bathtub in Ichihashi’s Tokyo flat in March 2007.

The fugitive had been on the run for more than two years since he fled the scene.

Miss Hawker’s parents Bill and Julia held a press conference at their home in Brandon, near Coventry.

Bill said: “This has been a long hard battle for the Hawkers, and the battle is over.

“We worked tirelessly as a family. We have never given up for our daughter. We have never given in. We wanted justice and we have finally got justice. We are so relieved that this part of our life is over.”

Miss Hawker’s parents have also told how they asked the Japanese mafia to help them find the only suspect in their daughter’s murder case.

They told the Mail on Sunday a TV crew arranged a meeting with the top families of the notorious Yakuza in Japan to ask for their help in finding Ichihashi.

Mr Hawker said he met with the mafia in a bar, gave them two bottles of whiskey as a present and asked for their help.

Meanwhile the reward of 10 million Yen (£66,500) for the capture of Ichihashi will be paid to several people who helped with his arrest.

This includes the person at the ferry terminal who tipped off police and the doctor who provided a photo of the suspect after surgery.

The payout will be the first of its kind since the country introduced the bounty system in 2007 and will be paid by the National Police Agency.

Ichihashi’s parents told reporters they were relieved their son had been captured.

WOMAN DRAGGED FROM POND

A WOMAN was dragged to safety after she fell into a pond in the city.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a woman who was in a pond off Swanswell Street, in the city centre, just before 2am on Friday November 13.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival at the scene, crews found a woman who had been pulled out of a large pond by two passers by.

“The woman was very wet and cold following the incident. Crews treated her at the scene, wrapped her in a blanket to keep her warm and monitored her condition before taking her by ambulance to University Hospital for further assessment and treatment.

“Without the swift actions of the two passers by, the outcome of this incident had the potential to be much more serious.”

MEMORIAL FOR BLITZ VICTIMS

A MEMORIAL to remember civilians that died during the Coventry Blitz is being planned as a key part of the rebuilding of the city centre.

Coventry City Council have announced plans for the city’s first memorial to the universal suffering of ordinary Coventrians who experienced the Blitz by Nazi bombers on November 14, 1940.

The aim is for a high-profile sculpture, as significant as the Lady Godiva statue in Broadgate, to be build around the Bullyard area of the city centre.

It would be part of the £1bn regeneration plan drawn up by US architects Jerde.

The idea has come from Conservative Councillor Gary Ridley, who said that neither of the city’s two Second World War memorials mark the suffering of all ordinary civilians.

The cabinet member for city development said: “I can understand why in the 1950s nothing was done because the issue was too sensitive for people to think about.

“We now have an excellent opportunity to build a city centre fit for the 21st century, but also to recognise what took place all those years ago.

“It needs to be something quite big, not a plaque that people will just end up walking past and might get pulled down in another city regeneration scheme, but something permanent like the Lady Godiva statue.

“The Bullyard area was one of the worst-hit during the Blitz which is why it would be a fitting place for the memorial.

“It would provide a sense of continuity and community for past, present and future generations.

“But it’s up to the people of Coventry to come forward and tell us what they want, and I want people who lived through it to play a part too.”

Early next year residents will be invited to share their thoughts and ideas on a memorial and its exact location for an artist to work to.

The public will then be asked to choose a favourite design from a shortlist.

Cllr Ridley added: “If people have an idea about what they would like to see then I would welcome them to come see me in the Council House and share their ideas.”

What do you think? Write to Times Letters, Coventry Times, Times Series, Corporation Street, Coventry, CV1 1FP or email timesletters@mrn.co.uk.

BEWARE OF POSTAL PHONE NUMBER SCAM

COVENTRY residents are being warned not to be duped by a postal premium phoneline.

The Trading Standards Office is reminding people not to call a number that is posted through your letterbox from a company called Parcel Delivery Service.

A note is delivered from PDS suggesting they were unable to deliver a parcel and that you need to contact them on 0906 6611911 - a premium rate number that if dialled can land you with a £15 bill.

Trading Standards officers have advised not to call the number as it is a mail scam originating from Belize two years ago.

Since a warning was sent out during the winter months last year there have been no new cases of people falling victim to the scam.

If you do receive a card with these details then contact Royal Mail Fraud on 0207 239 6655 or visit premium rate service regulator website www.icstis.org.uk.

BOGUS POLICE OFFICERS

BOGUS police officers have been operating in certain parts of Coventry and stealing from residents.

And West Midlands Police are warning everyone, particularly elderly people, to be wary of the scam.

A series of burglaries were reported on Wednesday November 11, where two men, claiming to be police officers, called at the home of residents in the Stoke and Wykem areas of the city.

Four incidents were reported between 9pm and 11pm.

On each occasion, two males gained entry to houses posing as plain clothed officers investigating a crime in the area. Once inside they have stolen cash and jewellery.

One of the offenders was described a white man, aged in his 20s, between 5ft 10in and 6ft in height. His accomplice is also white but is believed to be aged approximately 40 years and smaller in height.

Both were wearing dark clothing and one of them produced a silver badge to gain entry to a victim’s home.

Bob Pettipher, acting detective chief inspector from Chace Avenue police station, said: “Residents are reminded to check identification of anyone unexpectedly calling at their door, attempting to gain entry.

“If residents are in any doubt as to the authenticity of the identification we advise them to refuse entry.

“Any legitimate official, whether they may be a police officer or from a utility company, will gladly call back at a later time if they are conducting a genuine enquiry.”

Anyone who witnessed any of the incidents, or anyone with information is urged to call CID at Chace Avenue police station on 0845 113 5000.

SWAINS GIG

POPULAR city band The Swains are holding a fundraising gig at the Standard Triumph Club.

The event, which takes place on Friday (tomorrow) November 20, will go towards Coventry Sphinx under 14s Blue team, while a donation is also set to be made in memory of city firefighter Paul Gibbons.

The 41-year-old, known to friends and family as Gibbo, died as a result of injuries sustained in a street attack in Earlsdon last month and coached young footballers at Coventry Sphinx.

Frontman Martin Swain said: “Gibbo was a really popular member of Coventry Sphinx, and his death has shaken the club to the core.

“It was a very difficult decision for us to go ahead with what we intend to be a fun night in such circumstances, but after discussions with the club and Gibbo’s family we have decided to carry on.

“Hopefully we will get a really good turn-out which will help raise money for the team, and a donation we are planning to make to a cause of Gibbo’s family’s choice.”

The night will also feature a debut from The Kontours – a new young band led by one of the Sphinx team’s rising stars, Ollie O’Sullivan who will be providing support on the night.

Doors open at 8pm. To buy tickets, which cost £5, call the Standard Triumph Club on 024 7667 5186.

OPEN DAY IN HILLFIELDS

HILLFIELDS Readers Group is holding it’s annual open day at the Hope Centre with a wide range of activities for all.

The free event takes place on Saturday November 21 at the Sparkbrook Street venue.

Activities will include a second hand book sale to raise money for Hillfields charities, book quizzes with prizes, food and refreshments, author talks, poetry performances, craft workshop, and a storytelling event for children and families.

For more information please contact Colin Scott on 024 7683 2457 or email colin.scott@coventry.gov.uk.

SWINE FLU ADVICE

HEALTH bosses are encouraging anyone who suspects they have swine flu to make sure they seek treatment, as hospitals across the UK are noticing a rise in the number of patients being admitted with complications.

Over the past few weeks NHS Coventry has noted a steady rise in the number of people who are using their family GP as the first port of call, rather than the National Pandemic Flu Service (NPFS) when they have swine flu symptoms.

Coventry residents are also being reminded of what steps most people should take to get the best treatment.

Richard Hancox, flu director for NHS Coventry, said: “It is important that people with flu like symptoms should stay away from the GP practice for fear of spreading the virus to other vulnerable patients or healthcare workers.

“Patients who have an underlying health condition, babies under one year old and pregnant women who suspect they have swine flu should however contact their GP in the usual way. By using the NPFS service will free up GPs, enabling them to deal with other illnesses that need their urgent attention.

“People who have swine flu symptoms will be given a unique access number and told where their nearest antiviral collection point is. They should then ask a flu friend - a friend or relative who doesn’t have swine flu - to go and pick up their antivirals.”

For more information visit www.pandemicflu.direct.gov.uk or call 0800 1513 100.

HAWKER SUSPECT FOUND

THE only suspect in the murder of Coventry teacher Lindsay Ann Hawker has been arrested by Japanese police.

Japanese media reported that officers detained 30-year-old Tatsuya Ichihashi at the ferry port in Osaka city after receiving an emergency call on Tuesday.

It was suggested he was waiting for a ferry bound for the island of Okinawa in the far south-west of Japan and was reported to have told officers: “I am Ichihashi.”

The fugitive disappeared after Lindsay’s body was found on his balcony in Tokyo in March 2007.

The 22-year-old former Ernesford Grange and King Henry VIII pupil had been teaching Ichihashi English in a coffee shop before she went to his house.

Ichihashi fled from police just minutes before detectives found the teacher’s body in a sand-filled bath.

At a press conference at the Hawker’s home in Brandon, near Coventry, Lindsay’s father Bill, said: “The chief investigator office told me we always get our man and they have done. This has been a long, hard battle. We have worked tirelessly as a family and have never given in for our daughter.

“We have wanted justice and we have finally got it.”

A Foreign Office spokesman said: “We are glad and relieved that the only suspect in this case, Tatsuya Ichihashi, has been found and is now in police custody.”

Earlier this month images were released of Ichihashi of how he might look after it was reported he had undergone plastic surgery.

It is thought he invested in cheek implants and lip-thinning treatments in an operation a fortnight ago.

COV KID TO BE NAMED AFTER F1 HEROES

A FANATICAL Formula One couple from Coventry are planning to name their baby boy after two racing champions.

Motor-mad Trevor Sutton and his partner, Mandy Smith, 35, of Longfellow Road, Wyken, will be naming their tot Jenson Lewis.

It pays homage to Brit-racers Jenson Button, winner of the F1 World Champion title this year and previous winner Lewis Hamilton.

Trevor, 37, has been a fan of the sport for 25 years and is a passion he shares with his partner, who are engaged.

Trevor, who works as a controller for Rico Logistics, said: “We had already thought about names and were going to name him after a friend, but when Button won the championship we decided we should name him Jenson to celebrate him winning.

“We already think he’s going to be into his racing as we had a 4D scan and in one of the photos he looks like he’s holding a steering wheel.

“Family and friends don’t know that we’ve decided to name him Jenson Lewis so it will come as a surprise to them when they read it in the paper.”

Neither of the pair are new to parenthood as between them they have 10 children, but the baby expected to arrive on November 22 will be the first to be named after a racing driver.

“If we were able to meet Jenson that would be unbelievable,” added Trevor.

“We saw Lewis at the British Grand Prix, we were in the crowd and he was giving a speech, so the opportunity to get the two Jensons together at the show would be amazing.”

Baby Jenson Lewis will get his first taste of live motorsport at next season’s British Touring Car Championship meeting at Silverstone.

Before that Sutton and baby Jenson will see his namesake at Autosport International, which takes place at the National Exhibition Centre, in Birmingham from January 14 to 17, 2010.

For more information on Autosport International visit www.autosport-international.com.

PROTEST AT HOMES 'ATTACK'

HUNDREDS of protesters against swathes of green belt land being bulldozed over for housing will be walking through the city centre on the anniversary of the Blitz.

The rally is taking place on Saturday November 14 as residents across Coventry are uniting to battle plans for 33,000 new homes in and around the city.

It is part of the government’s Regional Spatial Strategy that states 82,000 new homes need to be built across Coventry, Warwickshire and Solihull by 2026.

Around 33,000 homes are earmarked for Coventry and its surrounding green fields.

The rally has been organised by Keresley residents, who might see a 3,300-home “eco-town” built on nearby green belt land.

Sandra Camwell, vice-chairman of Keresley Parish Council, said that holding the rally on the anniversary of the Blitz is poignant because mass house building plans are a modern-day attack on Coventry.

She said: “We feel it’s quite poignant to have our rally on the 14th as Coventry was bombed by the Germans and now we are being attacked by the council.

“The Germans thought they could do us down but we survived that attack. Now the council thinks they can do us down but Coventry will survive this attack too.

“We will be holding a peaceful protest, but we want to get our message across, our green belt land is sacred and it shouldn’t be built over.”

Members of the rally will meet outside Central Methodist Hall, in Warwick Lane, at 11.15am. People will then walk to Speaker’s Corner outside the New Council House, in Earl Street, to arrive for the rally by noon.

They will be joined by protesters from Finham, who are opposing a Warwick District Council proposal to build 3,000 new homes near Finham.

Bob Fryer, chairman of the Finham Residents Association, said: “We urge as many residents as possible to join us in this campaign – it’s green belt land being grabbed all over the place.”

An examination of the sites by government inspectors began on Tuesday this week and will go on until Friday December

ERICSSON ANNOUNCE JOB LOSSES

ERICSSON have announced it is pulling nearly all its operations out of Coventry taking up to 700 jobs with it.

Staff at the Swedish firm’s base, in Ansty Park, near Walsgrave, were given the news on Tuesday November 10.

It’s a huge blow for the city’s hopes to develop its economy with advanced manufacturing jobs at Ansty Park.

Ericsson became its first “anchor” tenant earlier this year and Prime Minister Gordon Brown paid a visit.

Thousands more jobs were expected to follow.

Ericsson says it intends to withdraw its UK-based research and development and global service delivery activities from Coventry.

A company statement said: “Some 700 employees are expected to be affected by the proposed withdrawal, which is expected to be implemented by mid-2010.

“The announcement is part of Ericsson’s ongoing global cost reduction activities and are subject to consultations with trade unions and employee forums.

“Staff have been informed.”

Worker’s union Unite described the announcement as a “bolt out of the blue”.

Peter Skyte, Unite national officer, said: “This has come as a bolt out of the blue for the workforce and their families who were looking forward to a promising future in this newly opened site.

“The former Marconi entity acquired by Ericsson a few years ago was among the top ten investors in research and development in the UK and successive governments have maintained the illusion that the country of ownership of a company is immaterial.

“But this decision by Ericsson to close the Ansty Coventry site and withdraw its research and development work from the UK now shatters this illusion, throws highly skilled workers out of work, and robs the UK of key technological development vital for its future.”

SCHOOLBOY'S FOOT CRUSHED BY BUS

A TEENAGER’S foot was crushed after he collided with a double decker bus.

The incident occurred on Monday November 9, in Quorn Way, Willenhall.

At around 6.20pm it is believed the 12-year-old victim was attempting to board the bus when he fell from the stairs and collided with the bus.

The boy was taken to hospital with serious injuries to his foot. He remains in a serious but stable condition.

Police are appealing for any witnesses of the collision to come forward and contact the road policing unit at Fletchamstead Highway on 0845 113 5000.

ILLUSTRATED TALK

A MINI tour of the islands around Britain will be given in Coventry on Wednesday November 18.

Keith Cattell, a retired architect, is to give an illustrated talk taking in features of islands from Skye to the Scillies.

It will be hosted by the Coventry HF Rambling and Social Club and takes place at the Friends’ Meeting House, in Hill Street, city centre, at 7.45pm.

STOLEN IPODS

POLICE officers are hunting three men following the theft of two ipods from a Coventry store.

CCTV images have been released of the offenders who walked into the Halfords store in Airport Retail Park, London Road, at around 5pm on October 14.

They opened the case containing the ipods, picked two up worth a total of £250 and then walked out of the shop.

Police are keen to speak to anyone with information, or the men pictured, at Chace Avenue police station on 0845 113 5000.

APPEAL FOR UNKNOWN IDENTITY

BRITISH Transport Police have still not been able to identify the body of a man who was killed after being hit by a train near Coventry.

The accident occurred on Wednesday October 21 at around 12.30pm, not long after the train had pulled out of the station, near the Quarry-field Lane bridge, in Cheylesmore.

The man is thought to have climbed on to the track before being hit by the highspeed train and his identity still remains anonymous.

Ambulance crews attended the incident but despite the efforts of paramedics he was confirmed dead at the scene.

He is described as being white, around 25 to 35-years-old, of average build, with longish light brown/ginger hair and a similar coloured beard.

He was wearing a black fleece top, black jeans and a grey canvas belt.

A British Transport Police spokesman said the incident was not being treated as suspicious.

He was struck by the 11.45am Wolverhampton to London Euston Virgin train.

Anyone with information can call the BTP on 0800 40 50 40, quoting log 232 of 21/10/2009 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

SIKH PEACE WALK

COVENTRY’S Sikh Union is holding its annual charity 17km walk this weekend.

The Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji charity walk starts from Ramgarhia Gurdwara in Foleshill Road at 9am, on Sunday November 15.

The walk commemorates the martyrdom of the Sikhs ninth guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji for freedom of expression of speech.

It will move towards the city centre and onto Coventry Cathedral, before returning back through Hillfields, Stoke and then Foleshill Road to complete the charity walk.

Enroute walkers will calls at all gurdwaras, temples, mandirs and Coventry Cathedral.

Bali Singh Panesar, Sikh union’s events coordinator, said: “It is hoped that at least 200 people will take part. It is open to people of all ages, in the past we have had mums and dads with their young ones in pushchairs taking part along with grandparents.

“We urge all members of the community to come along and take part in this charitable event.”

The charity walk is to raise funds to sponsor another eye camp in India. It follows the opening of an eye camp in March this year, which as treated more than 700 patients, from minor aliments to cataract removal surgery.

Funds will also be donated to Myton Hospice, Coventry Kidney Fund and Sikh union youth academy.

People can register for the free event on the day, free hot food and refreshments will also be provided.

For more information visit www.sikhunion.co.uk.

WOMEN BEING URGED TO GET SCREENED

WOMEN in Coventry are being urged to take advantage of a potentially life-saving breast cancer screening programme.

NHS Coventry is encouraging female residents who are eligible for screening to get checked out by the Warwickshire, Solihull and Coventry Breast Screening Service.

A survey by NHS Coventry revealed that around 30 per cent of women who were invited to be screened between 2004 and 2007 failed to go along for their appointment.

The breast screening service, based at University Hospital, in Walsgrave, is one of six national pilot sites to extend the age range of women who can be screened for breast cancer.

The service, which used to screen women aged 50 to 70, now covers women aged between 47 and 73.

Dr Caron Grainger, joint director of public health, said: “Breast cancer is the most common cancer in females in the UK, which is why we encourage all women to attend for breast screening when invited.

“Screening is vital as it can detect cancers at a very early stage when treatment is most likely to be effective.

“Our research shows that out of the 33,113 Coventry women who were invited to attend for breast cancer screening between 2004 and 2007, only 23,484 attended.

“This means a significant number of our female residents are potentially putting themselves at risk by not getting checked.

“Breast screening can save lives and we urge everyone who is invited to attend to go along to their appointment.”

Anita Stanton, superintendent radiographer at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, said: “Breast screening saves lives and the women in Coventry were already some of the first in the country to benefit from digital mammography equipment when that was introduced at University Hospital in 2006.

“We would urge any women invited for a scan to come along - it is quick, easy and could save your life.”

FACE YOUR PET FEARS

RESIDENTS are being asked to face their fears at Coventry Market this weekend.

The city centre market is hosting a ‘face your fears day’ on Saturday November 14 from 10am to 3pm.

Company Petwise Zoo has put together a zoo display.

People are being told to brace themselves for a selection of scary animals including, snakes, lizards, 4ft monitor lizard, tarantulas, scorpions, bugs, cockroaches, giant snails, toads and millipedes to help market customers learn about some of the less attractive members of the animal kingdom.

For those that can brave it there will be plenty of opportunities to handle the critters and a chance for market customers to face their phobias and handle the animals under expert supervision.

The day also includes animal handling, phobia sessions, lizard walks, feeding times, talks and even cockroach racing.

For more information then please visit www.petwisezoo.co.uk.

POLICE WARNING OVER OFF-ROAD BIKES

PARENTS are being urged by Coventry police to think twice before buying off-road bikes for their children this Christmas.

They are also warning that the gift could be seized by police and crushed by New Year if ridden recklessly.

Off-road bikes that do not comply with road traffic rules, which means they cannot be taxed or insured, are not allowed to be ridden in public places such as roads, pavements, parks or wasteland.

They can only be used on private land with the landowner’s permission.

Officers have said that any inappropriate use will not be tolerated and are asking residents to report any anti-social biking.

Sergeant Ferris Hatherson, of Chace Avenue police station, said: “This is the time of year when parents are thinking about what to buy children for Christmas.

“Off-road bikes don’t make good Christmas presents, they can cost up to £200 yet there are very few places where they can be ridden legally.

“Off-road motorbikes endanger the safety of residents, are noisy, and generally a nuisance when ridden illegally and recklessly; we won’t hesitate to seize and dispose of illegal bikes and prosecute users.

“Most people don’t appreciate that they can only be ridden on private land – so unless your garden runs to several acres, or you’ve a very accommodating landowner nearby, you won’t be able to ride them legally.”

Coventry police are encouraging residents to let them know if any bikes are being ridden in their neighbourhood.

To report any problems, call 0845 113 5000, visit your local police station, or phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

REMEMBERANCE SERVICE

THIS year’s annual Service of Remembrance will take place on Sunday November 8 at the War Memorial Park.

The Parade will start at 10.20am from Spencer Road and proceed to the War Memorial in the city centre park for the Service of Remembrance at 10.55am.

The Right Reverend Dr Christopher Cocksworth, Bishop of Coventry, will lead the service.

There will be representatives from groups and organisations including, Coventry Ex Servicemen, the armed and civilian services, The Royal British Legion, members of the uniformed services, St. John’s Ambulance, the British Red Cross, the Sea Cadets, and Coventry Scouts.

Lord Mayor Councillor Jack Harrison said: “Remembrance Sunday is an important day for us all. It’s a time when we can come together and pay our respects to those involved in conflict be it past or present.”