thedailyecho--2020-07-01--Nearly 2,000 citizenship ceremonies in Southampton and Hampshire in a year

ALMOST 2,000 people across Hampshire became British citizens last year after swearing allegiance to the Queen at special citizenship ceremonies , figures reveal .
The events , organised by local authorities , are the final step in the process to full citizenship and being able to obtain a British passport .
But with ceremonies indefinitely suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic , migrant rights campaigners say applicants across the country are stuck `` in limbo ” .
Home Office figures show 1,439 people attended citizenship ceremonies in the Hampshire County Council area in 2019 .
This was a rise of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , bringing the total for the last decade to around 16,300 .
In Southampton there were 518 ceremonies , a drop of eight per cent on the previous year .
A total of 1.2 million immigrants have gained citizenship over the last decade , although the number fell by 23 per cent to 113,301 , between 2010 and 2019 .
Participants are asked to make an oath of allegiance to the Queen and pledge to respect the rights , freedoms and laws of the UK .
They are then presented with a certificate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Jill Rutter , director of strategy at the thinktank British Future , said citizenship is important for integration and a shared sense of identity .
She said : `` Citizenship ceremonies do really matter to new Britons .
They mark the end of a long and expensive process , and the start of an enhanced feeling of belonging to the country people have chosen to call home .
`` We should restart citizenship ceremonies as soon as it is safe to do so.
” An independent inquiry into citizenship policy , coordinated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to Covid-19 .
In the longer term , British Future want the UK to review its approach to citizenship , by reducing the “ highest fees in the Western world ” and cutting red tape .
Last year , 15,101 people attended ceremonies in the South East – among 110,000 across the UK .
A further 3,000 did so at a British consulate abroad .
Maike Bohn , co-founder of think tank the3million , which represents the rights of EU citizens , said the pandemic has caused “ huge delays ” for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appointments to provide details at biometric centres also suspended .
Romanian national Alexandra Bulat , a project manager at the think tank , says she has paid more than £1,300 in application fees for her British citizenship but is still waiting for her ceremony to take place .
She said : “ It all feels like you ’ re still in limbo because the process is still not done and dusted .
“ The main reason a lot of EU citizens apply for citizenship is to feel more secure , because they don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scheme .
“ Being a British citizen means you can vote and be a fuller part of society by participating in political processes .
“ I think it ’ s quite important for people to feel that they have a say , whether that ’ s in the taxes that we pay or the direction the country is going.
” A Home Office spokeswoman said : “ Like applicants , we know how much citizenship ceremonies mean to people and we are actively looking at alternative , safe ways to reinstate such important @ @ @

The events, organised by local authorities, are the final step in the process to full citizenship and being able to obtain a British passport.
But with ceremonies indefinitely suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic, migrant rights campaigners say applicants across the country are stuck "in limbo”.
Home Office figures show 1,439 people attended citizenship ceremonies in the Hampshire County Council area in 2019.
This was a rise of one per cent on the year before, bringing the total for the last decade to around 16,300.
In Southampton there were 518 ceremonies, a drop of eight per cent on the previous year.
A total of 1.2 million immigrants have gained citizenship over the last decade, although the number fell by 23 per cent to 113,301, between 2010 and 2019.
Participants are asked to make an oath of allegiance to the Queen and pledge to respect the rights, freedoms and laws of the UK.
They are then presented with a certificate of British citizenship and a welcome pack.
Jill Rutter, director of strategy at the thinktank British Future, said citizenship is important for integration and a shared sense of identity.
She said: "Citizenship ceremonies do really matter to new Britons. They mark the end of a long and expensive process, and the start of an enhanced feeling of belonging to the country people have chosen to call home.
"We should restart citizenship ceremonies as soon as it is safe to do so.”
An independent inquiry into citizenship policy, coordinated by the group, is also paused due to Covid-19.
In the longer term, British Future want the UK to review its approach to citizenship, by reducing the “highest fees in the Western world” and cutting red tape.
Last year, 15,101 people attended ceremonies in the South East – among 110,000 across the UK.
A further 3,000 did so at a British consulate abroad.
Maike Bohn, co-founder of think tank the3million, which represents the rights of EU citizens, said the pandemic has caused “huge delays” for anyone wishing to become British – with appointments to provide details at biometric centres also suspended.
Romanian national Alexandra Bulat, a project manager at the think tank, says she has paid more than £1,300 in application fees for her British citizenship but is still waiting for her ceremony to take place.
She said: “It all feels like you’re still in limbo because the process is still not done and dusted.
“The main reason a lot of EU citizens apply for citizenship is to feel more secure, because they don’t feel secure with the Settlement Scheme.
“Being a British citizen means you can vote and be a fuller part of society by participating in political processes.
“I think it’s quite important for people to feel that they have a say, whether that’s in the taxes that we pay or the direction the country is going.”
A Home Office spokeswoman said: “Like applicants, we know how much citizenship ceremonies mean to people and we are actively looking at alternative, safe ways to reinstate such important occasions.”


thedailyecho--2020-07-01--District of Eastleigh: Who's building what in your back yard?

AMONG the applications submitted to planners in the Borough of Eastleigh were : 20/87956 - Raise ridge height and addition of dormer window to northwest side elevation -15 Bridge Close , Bursledon 20/87923 - Erection of single-storey boathouse following demolition of existing boathouse - Fairport House , Lands End Road , Bursledon 20/88078 - Single-storey rear extension and hip-to-gable loft conversion with a front rooflight and one side rooflight to South-West roof slope - 10 King 's Close , Chandler 's Ford 20/88004 - Conversion of first floor from a three-bedroom dwelling into two one-bedroom dwellings .
- 1A Fryern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ford 20/87985 - Single-storey rear extension , relocated entrance to provide accessible access , porch canopy and rendering of facade - 13 Cerdic Mews , Hamble-Le-Rice 20/87953 - Two-storey rear extension , rear conservatory , addition of first floor side facing windows and velux windows to side and rear roof slopes - Northwood , 97 Lower Northam Road , Hedge End 20/88079 - Erection of a detached four-bedroom bungalow provided with associated access , car parking , amenity space and storage facilities - 82 Land to the rear of , 82 St John @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Single-storey and first floor rear extension ; first floor and two-storey side extension ; two-storey , single-storey and first floor front extension with new 1.2m high wall to front boundary - 73 Bursledon Road , Hedge End

BOTLEY
20/88048 - Single-storey rear extension and decking area - 7 Twin Oaks, Botley
BURSLEDON
20/87963 - Erection of garden room - The Lodge, Ploverfield, Long Lane, Bursledon
20/87956 - Raise ridge height and addition of dormer window to northwest side elevation -15 Bridge Close, Bursledon
20/87923 - Erection of single-storey boathouse following demolition of existing boathouse - Fairport House, Lands End Road, Bursledon
20/88023 - Loft conversion with front and rear dormers - 15 Batchelor Green, Bursledon
20/88016 - Retention of retaining wall and boundary treatment - Railway Cottage, Station Road, Bursledon
CHANDLER'S FORD
20/88001 - Single-storey studio building - 33 Kingsway, Chandler's Ford
20/87973 - Single-storey rear extension, new patio and glazed veranda - 39 Alexandra Road, Chandler's Ford
20/87852 - Extend existing dropped kerb to front of property - 69 Hursley Road, Chandler's Ford
20/88078 - Single-storey rear extension and hip-to-gable loft conversion with a front rooflight and one side rooflight to South-West roof slope - 10 King's Close, Chandler's Ford
20/88054 - Two-storey front and rear extension, single-storey rear extension - 108 Brownhill Road, Chandler's Ford
20/88030 - Single-storey rear extension - 28 Brownhill Road, Chandler's Ford
20/88004 - Conversion of first floor from a three-bedroom dwelling into two one-bedroom dwellings. - 1A Fryern Arcade, Winchester Road, Chandler's Ford
EASTLEIGH
20/88075 - Erection of a three-bedroom dwelling with parking - 20 Spencer Road, Eastleigh
20/88020 - Single-storey rear extension - 344 Southampton Road, Eastleigh
20/88006 - New boundary brickwork wall - 113 Monks Way, Eastleigh
FAIR OAK & HORTON HEATH
20/88050 - Proposed replacement rear solid roof conservatory - Meadow Ridge, The Drove, Horton Heath
HAMBLE-LE-RICE
20/87985 - Single-storey rear extension, relocated entrance to provide accessible access, porch canopy and rendering of facade - 13 Cerdic Mews, Hamble-Le-Rice
HEDGE END
20/88000 - Two-storey rear extension and removal of side entrance porch - 33 Bursledon Road, Hedge End
20/87953 - Two-storey rear extension, rear conservatory, addition of first floor side facing windows and velux windows to side and rear roof slopes - Northwood, 97 Lower Northam Road, Hedge End
20/88080 - Single storey rear extension following removal of conservatory - 20 Gresley Gardens, Hedge End
20/88079 - Erection of a detached four-bedroom bungalow provided with associated access, car parking, amenity space and storage facilities - 82 Land to the rear of, 82 St John's Road, Hedge End
20/88051 - Single-storey and first floor rear extension; first floor and two-storey side extension; two-storey, single-storey and first floor front extension with new 1.2m high wall to front boundary - 73 Bursledon Road, Hedge End
20/88025 - Single-storey side and rear extension - 40 Strawberry Fields, Hedge End


thedailyecho--2020-07-01--Red Funnel ramping up vehicle ferry crossings from Southampton

RED Funnel has announced it will be increasing its vehicle ferry service later this month with a further 22 sailings per week .
The increase comes as Red Funnel is seeing more demand for its ferry crossings as tourism and leisure businesses reopen on the Isle of Wight and mainland .
The service will be expanded on July 10 and sailings will continue to run at less than normal capacity , with a maximum of 350 passengers or 39 per cent of normal capacity .
The additional sailings will help to ensure Red Funnel is able to offer more space @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ferry crossing times will remain as-is with the following crossings now added to the timetable : The company will also be increasing the number of freight ferry services on the Red Kestrel to 22 crossings per week , enabling the operator to free up additional space on its passenger ferries and adjust to the increase in demand for freight services over the summer months .
Fran Collins , CEO of Red Funnel , said : “ We are delighted to be increasing our ferry crossings from July 10 .
`` We continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase further as the hospitality and leisure sector reopens from this weekend .
`` Red Funnel is committed to supporting the Island ’ s recovery and these additional sailings are the right step in the right direction at the right time .
`` Just as it was Red Funnel ’ s duty to keep sailing and keep the Island connected and supplied during the height of the pandemic , we ’ re now beginning to resume our role in supporting the Island ’ s vital tourism industry .
`` We ’ re really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Island and likewise welcoming more Islanders back as they start to travel further afield .
`` We ’ ve gone to great lengths to ensure passengers have a good experience with us , and that they can relax and sail safe .
”

The increase comes as Red Funnel is seeing more demand for its ferry crossings as tourism and leisure businesses reopen on the Isle of Wight and mainland.
The service will be expanded on July 10 and sailings will continue to run at less than normal capacity, with a maximum of 350 passengers or 39 per cent of normal capacity.
The additional sailings will help to ensure Red Funnel is able to offer more space to Islanders and holidaymakers onboard.
Current ferry crossing times will remain as-is with the following crossings now added to the timetable:
Newly added crossings from Southampton:
11:15, 14:15, 17:15 – Monday, Friday, Sunday
11:15, 14:15 – Saturday
Newly added crossings from East Cowes:
12:45, 15:45, 18:45 – Monday, Friday, Sunday
12:45, 15:45 – Saturday
The company will also be increasing the number of freight ferry services on the Red Kestrel to 22 crossings per week, enabling the operator to free up additional space on its passenger ferries and adjust to the increase in demand for freight services over the summer months.
Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, said: “We are delighted to be increasing our ferry crossings from July 10.
"We continue to see demand growing and anticipate this will increase further as the hospitality and leisure sector reopens from this weekend.
"Red Funnel is committed to supporting the Island’s recovery and these additional sailings are the right step in the right direction at the right time.
"Just as it was Red Funnel’s duty to keep sailing and keep the Island connected and supplied during the height of the pandemic, we’re now beginning to resume our role in supporting the Island’s vital tourism industry.
"We’re really looking forward to welcoming visitors back to the Island and likewise welcoming more Islanders back as they start to travel further afield.
"We’ve gone to great lengths to ensure passengers have a good experience with us, and that they can relax and sail safe.”


thedailyecho--2020-07-01--Go Ape Southampton all set for reopening after lockdown

A POPULAR adventure park is to reopen to the public after months of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Go Ape , with a centre based at Moors Valley Country Park near Ringwood , is to reopen on July 4 .
Go Ape ’ s socially distanced forest adventures aim to provide a `` morale boost '' to its customers and team mates .
The oark closed all 34 locations across the UK when the Government locked Britain down on March 20 .
Go Ape ’ s natural habitat – high up in the tree canopy - means that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The team have put smart new measures in place to ensure everyone stays healthy , from sneeze screens at the cabin , to really clever , environmentally-sound , off-grid hand washing stations .
Go Ape ’ s high ropes courses naturally keeps participants socially distanced .
Only one person is allowed on any ladder , crossing or zip wire at a time .
Up to three people from the same household can be on a platform , but not two people from different households , customers will be asked to respect the social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restricted to limit numbers and karabiners , Zip trolleys and Forest Segways will be cleaned between customers .
Former Army Captain , Tristram Mayhew , who served as a tank commander with the Royal Dragoon Guards , and Go Ape ’ s founder said : “ Many people have had a really tough time through the pandemic .
This is our time to lead by example and help them .
“ Go Ape has always been brave , encouraging ‘ I can ’ t to become I can ’ .
We challenge everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of height , fear of failure and fear of what we can ’ t control .
`` We know that fear is overcome by bold action .
We now all face the fear and new challenge of an unseen virus .
`` But we do so together .
We can , and we will rise to the challenge and overcome our own fears and can help others face and overcome theirs .
When you feel low , helping others is the best upper .
`` Go Ape is set to rise again .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus or by anything else .
Our calling is to rekindle the spirit of adventure , to nurture the call of the wild , and to help everyone conquer the fears that stop us living life boldly.
” “ Life is sweet .
The time is now .
Let ’ s pull together and give Britain back an amazing naturally thrilling , experience .
Let ’ s get creating hundreds of thousands of positive life changing memories.
” For more information and to book visit www.goape.co.uk .
With limited capacity Go Ape are @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Go Ape, with a centre based at Moors Valley Country Park near Ringwood, is to reopen on July 4.
Go Ape’s socially distanced forest adventures aim to provide a "morale boost" to its customers and team mates.
The oark closed all 34 locations across the UK when the Government locked Britain down on March 20.
Go Ape’s natural habitat – high up in the tree canopy - means that customers breathe in the fresh air.
The team have put smart new measures in place to ensure everyone stays healthy, from sneeze screens at the cabin, to really clever, environmentally-sound, off-grid hand washing stations.
Go Ape’s high ropes courses naturally keeps participants socially distanced. Only one person is allowed on any ladder, crossing or zip wire at a time.
Up to three people from the same household can be on a platform, but not two people from different households, customers will be asked to respect the social distancing rules.
Instructional briefings will be restricted to limit numbers and karabiners, Zip trolleys and Forest Segways will be cleaned between customers.
Former Army Captain, Tristram Mayhew, who served as a tank commander with the Royal Dragoon Guards, and Go Ape’s founder said: “Many people have had a really tough time through the pandemic. This is our time to lead by example and help them.
“Go Ape has always been brave, encouraging ‘I can’t to become I can’. We challenge everyone to face their unseen fears, fear of height, fear of failure and fear of what we can’t control.
"We know that fear is overcome by bold action. We now all face the fear and new challenge of an unseen virus.
"But we do so together. We can, and we will rise to the challenge and overcome our own fears and can help others face and overcome theirs. When you feel low, helping others is the best upper.
"Go Ape is set to rise again. We will not be beaten by the virus or by anything else. Our calling is to rekindle the spirit of adventure, to nurture the call of the wild, and to help everyone conquer the fears that stop us living life boldly.”
“Life is sweet. The time is now. Let’s pull together and give Britain back an amazing naturally thrilling, experience. Let’s get creating hundreds of thousands of positive life changing memories.”
For more information and to book visit www.goape.co.uk.
With limited capacity Go Ape are urging customers to book in advance.


thedailyecho--2020-07-01--Amazon's free coronavirus support to small Southampton businesses

AMAZON ’ S operation in Southampton is urging local entrepreneurs to sign up to a free support package for 200,000 small businesses .
The online giant , which has a delivery station in the city , is offering support including training , services and a week-long bootcamp which will help 1,000 businesses get online .
Amazon has joined with the small business support network Enterprise Nation to launch the Amazon Small Business Accelerator and help small firms through the coronavirus crisis .
Businesses can take an online diagnostic test to find the learning “ path ” that best fits their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Benefits for participants range from discounts on business supplies and protective equipment from Amazon Business to training in Amazon Web Services ( AWS ) .
Doug Gurr , Amazon UK country manager , said : “ Small businesses are the lifeblood of the economy in Southampton and by helping them we can help families , communities and the UK bounce back more quickly .
“ Amazon in Southampton is passionate about supporting local entrepreneurs and small businesses , with more than half of all products sold on Amazon stores coming from our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ found their way through the crisis by providing goods and services online .
Now the Amazon Small Business Accelerator with Enterprise Nation will provide thousands of offline and online businesses with the skills , tools and support they need to succeed in the digital world , to reach customers through Amazon or any other service.
” The bootcamps which form part of the scheme will help 1,000 mostly offline start-ups and small businesses to trade online .
Businesses in the fashion , beauty and wellbeing , food and drink , services , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ five-day online course with access to experts and peer-to-peer networking .
Bootcamp participants can also access 12 months of support from a wide range of accredited advisers , covering topics on marketing , operations and managing finances , as well as benefits including discounts and credits from Amazon and partners .
Amazon says it is already helping thousands of small businesses by waiving storage and removal fees for new sellers on its Fulfilment by Amazon service .
Its Amazon Launchpad programme , which showcases products from start-ups , has offered fee relief as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ marketing and other topics .
Amazon Pay users can receive chargeback , relief and extensions an AWS will be running online events for start-ups , with advice and resources for small businesses seeking to modernise their use of technology .
Amazon is working with the British Chambers of Commerce to provide up to 1,000 businesses with the opportunity to tour Amazon fulfilment centres .
Oliver Dowden , the secretary of state for digital , culture , media and sport , said : “ It is vital that small businesses are able to develop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ connect with customers online , expand their offer and drive their company ’ s growth .
So it ’ s great to see Amazon and Enterprise Nation joining forces to help thousands of small businesses and startups take full advantage of our dynamic digital economy.
” Emma Jones , head of Enterprise Nation , said : “ We have worked with Amazon to support small businesses for many years , but this is our most ambitious and important programme to date .
”

The online giant, which has a delivery station in the city, is offering support including training, services and a week-long bootcamp which will help 1,000 businesses get online.
Amazon has joined with the small business support network Enterprise Nation to launch the Amazon Small Business Accelerator and help small firms through the coronavirus crisis.
Businesses can take an online diagnostic test to find the learning “path” that best fits their business – Start, Grow or Turbo.
Benefits for participants range from discounts on business supplies and protective equipment from Amazon Business to training in Amazon Web Services (AWS).
Doug Gurr, Amazon UK country manager, said: “Small businesses are the lifeblood of the economy in Southampton and by helping them we can help families, communities and the UK bounce back more quickly.
“Amazon in Southampton is passionate about supporting local entrepreneurs and small businesses, with more than half of all products sold on Amazon stores coming from our selling partners.
“Many businesses have found their way through the crisis by providing goods and services online. Now the Amazon Small Business Accelerator with Enterprise Nation will provide thousands of offline and online businesses with the skills, tools and support they need to succeed in the digital world, to reach customers through Amazon or any other service.”
The bootcamps which form part of the scheme will help 1,000 mostly offline start-ups and small businesses to trade online. Businesses in the fashion, beauty and wellbeing, food and drink, services, and home and leisure sectors will join a five-day online course with access to experts and peer-to-peer networking.
Bootcamp participants can also access 12 months of support from a wide range of accredited advisers, covering topics on marketing, operations and managing finances, as well as benefits including discounts and credits from Amazon and partners.
Amazon says it is already helping thousands of small businesses by waiving storage and removal fees for new sellers on its Fulfilment by Amazon service. Its Amazon Launchpad programme, which showcases products from start-ups, has offered fee relief as well as online training on funding, marketing and other topics.
Amazon Pay users can receive chargeback, relief and extensions an AWS will be running online events for start-ups, with advice and resources for small businesses seeking to modernise their use of technology.
Amazon is working with the British Chambers of Commerce to provide up to 1,000 businesses with the opportunity to tour Amazon fulfilment centres.
Oliver Dowden, the secretary of state for digital, culture, media and sport, said: “It is vital that small businesses are able to develop the digital skills they need to help connect with customers online, expand their offer and drive their company’s growth. So it’s great to see Amazon and Enterprise Nation joining forces to help thousands of small businesses and startups take full advantage of our dynamic digital economy.”
Emma Jones, head of Enterprise Nation, said: “We have worked with Amazon to support small businesses for many years, but this is our most ambitious and important programme to date.”
CONTACT ME
t: 01202 411297
e: darren.slade@
dailyecho.co.uk


thedailyecho--2020-07-01--Council criticised for cutting verges that could be filled with wildlife

A TEST Valley community leader and a Romsey hedgehog rescuer have criticised a county council for mowing down some verges that could be filled with wildlife .
Deputy leader for Test Valley Borough Council ( TVBC ) , cllr Nick Adams-King , urged Hampshire County Council ( HCC ) to be more aware of animals when cutting verges back as part of the council 's highway maintenance .
Cllr Adams-King said : `` Cutting the verges is vital for highway safety , however I ’ ve been contacted by many residents who have been unhappy at the extent to which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve heard of householders who have had newly planted hedges that have been mown down and many concerns about nesting birds , young mammals , insects and wildflowers in the areas that have been cut .
`` I had one complaint from a woman who lives in Toothill Road in Romsey and she had just planted her hedge , but the council cut it down . ''
He added : `` We have persuaded the county council to delay verge cutting in Embley Lane [ West Wellow ] next year to enable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complete their life cycle prior to the cut , however I am sure there is much more than can be done .
`` TVBC delay all but essential hedge and verge cutting until after nesting season , and have signed up to the British Hedgehog Society code of conduct for verge maintenance .
I ’ d urge Hampshire County Council to do the same . ''
Pip Hollingworth , also known as 'Romsey Hedgehog Lady ' , said : `` We recently contacted Hampshire Highways with our concerns about their excessive cutting and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ known to nest .
`` The reply we received was dismissive and unapologetic .
`` Despite having witnessed two dead hedgehogs are a direct result of this excessive flailing . ''
She added : `` Hedgehogs are a priority species on the UK biodiversity action plan ; we all have a responsibility to protect our wildlife .
`` Hampshire County Council should be following the example set by TVBC , making wildlife habitat protection a priority when carrying out roadside maintenance.
” HCC has been contacted for comment .
Cllr Adams-King received the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ May 27 .

Deputy leader for Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC), cllr Nick Adams-King, urged Hampshire County Council (HCC) to be more aware of animals when cutting verges back as part of the council's highway maintenance.
Cllr Adams-King said: "Cutting the verges is vital for highway safety, however I’ve been contacted by many residents who have been unhappy at the extent to which verges have been cut.
"I’ve heard of householders who have had newly planted hedges that have been mown down and many concerns about nesting birds, young mammals, insects and wildflowers in the areas that have been cut.
"I had one complaint from a woman who lives in Toothill Road in Romsey and she had just planted her hedge, but the council cut it down."
He added: "We have persuaded the county council to delay verge cutting in Embley Lane [West Wellow] next year to enable the rare Silver Washed Fritillaries butterflies to complete their life cycle prior to the cut, however I am sure there is much more than can be done.
"TVBC delay all but essential hedge and verge cutting until after nesting season, and have signed up to the British Hedgehog Society code of conduct for verge maintenance. I’d urge Hampshire County Council to do the same."
Pip Hollingworth, also known as 'Romsey Hedgehog Lady', said: "We recently contacted Hampshire Highways with our concerns about their excessive cutting and flailing in an area where hedgehogs are known to nest.
"The reply we received was dismissive and unapologetic.
"Despite having witnessed two dead hedgehogs are a direct result of this excessive flailing."
She added: "Hedgehogs are a priority species on the UK biodiversity action plan; we all have a responsibility to protect our wildlife.
"Hampshire County Council should be following the example set by TVBC, making wildlife habitat protection a priority when carrying out roadside maintenance.”
HCC has been contacted for comment.
Cllr Adams-King received the complaints from residents between May 13 and May 27.


thedailyecho--2020-07-01--Roadworks on busy Southampton road

Roadworks on busy Southampton road

A BUSY Southampton road could be facing days of delays due to roadworks .
On July 2 , Southampton City @ @ @ @ @ cover repairs on Winchester Road .
The road works will last for two days and @ @ @ @ @ more repairs will be carried out until July 10 .
The works will take place @ @ @ @ @ road and a give-and-take traffic control system will be in place .
Officials have said @ @ @ @ @ .

On July 2, Southampton City Council will be carrying out cover repairs on Winchester Road.
The road works will last for two days and then on July 9, more repairs will be carried out until July 10.
The works will take place in different areas of the road and a give-and-take traffic control system will be in place.
Officials have said that delays will be likely.


thedailyecho--2020-07-01--LETTER - Noise pollution issues from the larger aircraft will be a blight on Southampton

AXO , Airport eXpansion Opposition , is saddened this week with the decision by Southampton City Council planning and rights of way committee to agree the felling of three Monterey Pines in the copse .
While it is claimed these trees were to be felled on health and safety grounds , this is just the beginning of the felling of trees required as part of the masterplan of the airport to accommodate bigger noisier planes over our city .
The decision was taken despite confusion over different versions of the the report from the tree specialist engaged by the airport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ felling ) and a specialist engaged by Friends of Marlhill Copse recommending that only one of the trees required felling on safety grounds .
The tall trees at Marlhill Copse are a physical barrier to further airport expansion .
The noise pollution issues from the larger aircraft planned will be a blight on the city .
If the city can not see what they have done this week they are naïve .
To get involved with AXO please email axosou @ gmail.com More information about AXO can be found at axosouthampton @ wordpress.com

While it is claimed these trees were to be felled on health and safety grounds, this is just the beginning of the felling of trees required as part of the masterplan of the airport to accommodate bigger noisier planes over our city.
The decision was taken despite confusion over different versions of the the report from the tree specialist engaged by the airport (the first of which required no felling) and a specialist engaged by Friends of Marlhill Copse recommending that only one of the trees required felling on safety grounds.
The tall trees at Marlhill Copse are a physical barrier to further airport expansion.
The noise pollution issues from the larger aircraft planned will be a blight on the city.
If the city cannot see what they have done this week they are naïve.
To get involved with AXO please email axosou@gmail.com
More information about AXO can be found at axosouthampton@wordpress.com
Katherine Barbour
AXO campaigner


thedailyecho--2020-07-01--LETTER- Waiting until after Covid would have been more prudent for Avenue cycle lanes

I have just exited Southampton by way of the Avenue which I now discover is a single carriage way in each direction , the second lanes being converted to cyclist only .
From the Cowherds pub to the motorway I saw three cyclists : one crossing the road , one actually using the lane and one riding on the pavement next to the lane .
The Avenue is the main thoroughfare from the national motorway system to the city centre and A & E , indeed the signs on the M3 actually encourage you to use the Avenue .
Just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed to use the motorway whilst motor traffic does .
Hence the main feed from the motorway is the Avenue ; unless of course there is to be a new signing and re-routing project .
I understand the motive for this move but perhaps waiting until after the Covid outbreak had subsided and traffic was more normal before making the decision would have been prudent .
I assume that if the alteration ( after covid ) has caused much disruption to traffic - possibly feeding back onto the motorway system - the councillors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the reversion of the chaos that will ensue from a restricted road system .
I apologise if the good voters of Southampton are in favour of the scheme .
It is easy for me to criticise when I do not pay council tax in Southampton ; just drive through and spend money in the city which now will be harder to achieve .

From the Cowherds pub to the motorway I saw three cyclists: one crossing the road, one actually using the lane and one riding on the pavement next to the lane.
The Avenue is the main thoroughfare from the national motorway system to the city centre and A&E, indeed the signs on the M3 actually encourage you to use the Avenue.
Just one slight problem, cyclists are not allowed to use the motorway whilst motor traffic does.
Hence the main feed from the motorway is the Avenue; unless of course there is to be a new signing and re-routing project.
I understand the motive for this move but perhaps waiting until after the Covid outbreak had subsided and traffic was more normal before making the decision would have been prudent.
I assume that if the alteration (after covid) has caused much disruption to traffic - possibly feeding back onto the motorway system - the councillors that approved the alteration will pay for the reversion of the chaos that will ensue from a restricted road system.
I apologise if the good voters of Southampton are in favour of the scheme.
It is easy for me to criticise when I do not pay council tax in Southampton; just drive through and spend money in the city which now will be harder to achieve.
Peter Lamb
Winchester


thedailyecho--2020-07-01--LETTERS - Southampton needs more places to walk and cycle - not cars

SOUTHAMPTON needs more space for walking and cycling , not cars .
We need a Green Recovery from this health crisis , including massive investment in walking , cycling and public transport infrastructure .
The Government ’ s decision to spend £27 billion on new road building is now clearly out of date - social distancing measures mean that we need more space for people to walk and cycle safely .
Cities across the world , including Athens , Paris and Bristol have recently announced plans to cut traffic , and pedestrianise areas of the city centre .
Let ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well .
The recent measures taken by Southampton City Council to improve and encourage active travel in the city are very much welcomed .
As a Portswood resident , I look forward to trying out the new cycle lanes on Portswood road and on behalf of Southampton Greenpeace as an active member , the group is pleased to see that the council is putting measures in place to help get people , who are able to , out of their cars and onto bikes or walking more .
This is a great start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the central Government to get these up and running across the city .
Continuing to reduce traffic , widening the pavements and putting in more bike lanes will encourage people to walk or cycle , which will have a positive impact on health and wellbeing .
That ’ s why I , alongside the Greenpeace Southampton Group , call on our local council to lobby Government on the funding we need , and for the Chancellor to set out investment in clean , green transport in his upcoming budget speech .
It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tackle climate change , keep residents fit and healthy , and help rebuild our local community after lockdown .
We need to care more for our planet and city and keep our city a place that people enjoy living in .
Rosie Newey

We need a Green Recovery from this health crisis, including massive investment in walking, cycling and public transport infrastructure.
The Government’s decision to spend £27 billion on new road building is now clearly out of date - social distancing measures mean that we need more space for people to walk and cycle safely.
Cities across the world, including Athens, Paris and Bristol have recently announced plans to cut traffic, and pedestrianise areas of the city centre.
Let’s do this here in Southampton as well.
The recent measures taken by Southampton City Council to improve and encourage active travel in the city are very much welcomed.
As a Portswood resident, I look forward to trying out the new cycle lanes on Portswood road and on behalf of Southampton Greenpeace as an active member, the group is pleased to see that the council is putting measures in place to help get people, who are able to, out of their cars and onto bikes or walking more.
This is a great start, but we need more investment from the central Government to get these up and running across the city.
Continuing to reduce traffic, widening the pavements and putting in more bike lanes will encourage people to walk or cycle, which will have a positive impact on health and wellbeing.
That’s why I, alongside the Greenpeace Southampton Group, call on our local council to lobby Government on the funding we need, and for the Chancellor to set out investment in clean, green transport in his upcoming budget speech.
It’s one of the easiest ways to tackle climate change, keep residents fit and healthy, and help rebuild our local community after lockdown.
We need to care more for our planet and city and keep our city a place that people enjoy living in. Rosie Newey
Portswood


thedailyecho--2020-07-01--LETTER - Southampton hospital radio returns to the studios after three months

UNFORTUNATELY , for obvious reasons , our Southampton Hospital Radio Volunteers have been unable to visit the patients in Southampton General or the Princess Anne Hospitals – nor have we been allowed to attend our studios - for the past few months .
However our radio service has continued to play for 24/7 throughout this period – thanks to the wonders of computers .
It is now with much pleasure to report that some of our volunteers ( health and age permitting ) are returning to the studios to present live programmes once again ( but not visiting the wards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ personal musical requests for our listeners in the hospitals .
You don ’ t have to be in hospital to tune in to our radio service .
It is available via “ Alexa ” on your phone or home computer .
Search for the Southampton Hospital Radio “ Skill ” on the Amazon App – then simply say “ Alexa , play Southampton Hospital Radio ” to tune in and you can enjoy hearing your request played .
To arrange a musical request for your friends and family - please leave a message @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we will do the rest .
If you would like more details of our service why not visit our website www.sohba.org If you would like to make a donation to our charity , as all our fundraising activities have been out of action for months now , you can also help us out – again by using our website connection .
We look forward to hearing from you .

However our radio service has continued to play for 24/7 throughout this period – thanks to the wonders of computers.
It is now with much pleasure to report that some of our volunteers (health and age permitting ) are returning to the studios to present live programmes once again (but not visiting the wards )
What we now need are some personal musical requests for our listeners in the hospitals.
You don’t have to be in hospital to tune in to our radio service.
It is available via “Alexa” on your phone or home computer.
Search for the Southampton Hospital Radio “Skill” on the Amazon App – then simply say “Alexa, play Southampton Hospital Radio” to tune in and you can enjoy hearing your request played.
To arrange a musical request for your friends and family - please leave a message on our telephone line 02380 785151 and we will do the rest.
If you would like more details of our service why not visit our website www.sohba.org
If you would like to make a donation to our charity, as all our fundraising activities have been out of action for months now, you can also help us out – again by using our website connection.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Roy Stubbs
Chairman, Southampton Hospital Radio


thedailyecho--2020-06-30--Teens spared jail after robbing Co-op store in Southampton

TWO BOYS who robbed a supermarket with a “ gun ” and threatened a shopkeeper at knifepoint have been spared jail and given another “ chance ” .
The Southampton teens aged just and 14 and 15-years-old wore masks during a raid on the Co-op store in Portsmouth Road , Sholing .
• ‘ I want to kill you now ’ : Knife-wielding teen 's chilling threat to neighbours Armed with a kitchen knife and black BB gun they snatched a haul of cigarettes and tobacco on March 7 this year .
• Woman pulled over for drink driving 'lashed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can not be named for legal reasons appeared before Southampton Crown Court yesterday facing charges of robbery .
The 15-year-old faced charges of possession of a realistic imitation firearm with intent and the younger boy possession of a bladed article .
They both pleaded guilty .
A victim statement said how the shopkeeper initially laughed at the gun but realised the boys “ were not messing around ” and “ felt scared they would hurt her ” .
She was “ frightened and could not get words out.
” The court heard how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which include assault , theft and burglary .
• 'Immature ' teen hid in bush after 75mph police chase through city Meanwhile , the other boy has an existing youth caution for the possession of a bladed article .
Defence barrister Victoria Hill said how her 14-year-old client was “ petrified at the thought of going to prison ” but “ has a determination to address his behaviour ” .
Defending the 15-year-old , Keely Harvey said he was extremely vulnerable to child exploitation and suffers from autism and ADHD .
Judge Parker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would face a very lengthy prison sentence .
However , he took into account their “ immaturity ” and whether to impose a custodial sentence during the “ wretched ” coronavirus pandemic .
He gave them a “ chance ” .
Both were given an 18-month youth rehabilitation order and a four-month curfew from 7pm to 7am .
They must not go to the Co-op store in Portsmouth Road for 18-months and must not contact each other or their victim in that time .

The Southampton teens aged just and 14 and 15-years-old wore masks during a raid on the Co-op store in Portsmouth Road, Sholing.
Armed with a kitchen knife and black BB gun they snatched a haul of cigarettes and tobacco on March 7 this year.
The teens who cannot be named for legal reasons appeared before Southampton Crown Court yesterday facing charges of robbery.
The 15-year-old faced charges of possession of a realistic imitation firearm with intent and the younger boy possession of a bladed article. They both pleaded guilty.
A victim statement said how the shopkeeper initially laughed at the gun but realised the boys “were not messing around” and “felt scared they would hurt her”.
She was “frightened and could not get words out.”
The court heard how the older teen already has youth cautions which include assault, theft and burglary.
Meanwhile, the other boy has an existing youth caution for the possession of a bladed article.
Defence barrister Victoria Hill said how her 14-year-old client was “petrified at the thought of going to prison” but “has a determination to address his behaviour”.
Defending the 15-year-old, Keely Harvey said he was extremely vulnerable to child exploitation and suffers from autism and ADHD.
Judge Parker said if the boys were adults they would face a very lengthy prison sentence.
However, he took into account their “immaturity” and whether to impose a custodial sentence during the “wretched” coronavirus pandemic. He gave them a “chance”.
Both were given an 18-month youth rehabilitation order and a four-month curfew from 7pm to 7am.
They must not go to the Co-op store in Portsmouth Road for 18-months and must not contact each other or their victim in that time.


thedailyecho--2020-06-30--Totton man charged with burglary

Totton man charged with burglary

A MAN has been charged with burglary after someone found an unknown male in their house .
During the early @ @ @ @ @ resident of an address on Ringwood Road called police after they found an unknown man @ @ @ @ @ man left the address , but was detained by police a short distance away .
@ @ @ @ @ of burglary .
Following police enquiries , James Moody , of an address in Totton @ @ @ @ @ burglary , and has been remanded to prison awaiting his day in court .

During the early hours on Sunday, a resident of an address on Ringwood Road called police after they found an unknown man in their house.
The man left the address, but was detained by police a short distance away.
He was arrested on suspicion of burglary.
Following police enquiries, James Moody, of an address in Totton, has been charged with burglary, and has been remanded to prison awaiting his day in court.


thedailyecho--2020-06-30--Ringwood School has reopened after travellers forced its closure

RINGWOOD School has reopened to pupils this morning after an illegal encampment of travellers led to its emergency closure yesterday .
Caravans and other vehicles were blocking access to the school and were parked on land at Ringwood Health and Leisure Centre .
School leaders took the decision to close the school due to concerns over the safety of pupils .
Students were encouraged to work remotely and teachers have reassured parents that children will not miss any work as a result of the closure .
Ringwood School closed to all pupils as travellers block access A school spokesman said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the closure on our community and appreciate your understanding .
To reassure you , all emergency school provision students will have been able to access their learning remotely and the Year 10 students due in have either been taught ( or will be taught ) via a live lesson remotely or have had additional time for the missed subject added to their timetable in the coming days .
`` We are grateful for everyone ’ s patience and understanding throughout the day today . ''
A spokesman for New Forest District Council added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the police issued a Section 61 Notice .
NFDC would like to thank their partners , Hampshire Constabulary and Ringwood School , for all their assistance . ''

Caravans and other vehicles were blocking access to the school and were parked on land at Ringwood Health and Leisure Centre.
School leaders took the decision to close the school due to concerns over the safety of pupils.
Students were encouraged to work remotely and teachers have reassured parents that children will not miss any work as a result of the closure.
Police moved the travellers on yesterday afternoon.
Ringwood School closed to all pupils as travellers block access
A school spokesman said: "We understand the impact of the closure on our community and appreciate your understanding. To reassure you, all emergency school provision students will have been able to access their learning remotely and the Year 10 students due in have either been taught (or will be taught) via a live lesson remotely or have had additional time for the missed subject added to their timetable in the coming days.
"We are grateful for everyone’s patience and understanding throughout the day today."
A spokesman for New Forest District Council added: "The site is now clear after the police issued a Section 61 Notice. NFDC would like to thank their partners, Hampshire Constabulary and Ringwood School, for all their assistance."


thedailyecho--2020-06-30--SEROCU make arrests following people smuggling operation

FOUR people have been arrested for people smuggling after launching from the South Coast of England .
They were arrested during an operation to smuggle migrants into the UK via boat .
Two British men and one Albanian national were arrested on a fishing boat in Cherbourg , France .
They had been preparing to leave the port in the early hours of Saturday morning .
Five migrants , believed to be Albanian , were also found on board .
The boat had left the Isle of Wight for France last Friday at around 2am .
UK officers later swooped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Isle of Wight on suspicion of conspiracy to facilitate illegal immigration and money laundering .
He has been released on bail while the three arrested in France remain in French custody .
The operation was lead by the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit ( SEROCU ) but also involved National Crime Agency , Border Force and the French authorities .
Detective Inspector Clair Trueman , from SEROCU , said : “ We have worked closely with our counterparts in France and wider UK Law Enforcement partners to stop those who attempt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this particular case the organised crime group intended to transport a group of illegal migrants into the UK on a small boat .
`` These criminals exploit vulnerable people in communities to make money without any considerations for their welfare .
`` SEROCU will continue to work jointly with the NCA , Border and authorities broad to catch these organised crime groups and protect those at risk from them.
” National Crime Agency branch operations manager Martin Matthews added : “ These arrests were made as a result of co-operation between the NCA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ French partners .
`` Working with them we are determined to do all we can to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks involved in immigration crime .
`` People smugglers treat migrants as a commodity to be profited from , and are content to put them in situations of extreme danger .
That is why this type of crime is a priority for us.
” Head of Operations for Border Force Maritime Command , Dennis Norman said : `` These are significant arrests and indicative of the successful work that Border Force is engaged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ using our maritime capability in support of the operation we were able to provide vital assistance that enabled the arrests to be made .
`` Working with our law enforcement partners at home and abroad , we are determined to bring those responsible for this kind of criminality to justice .
”

They were arrested during an operation to smuggle migrants into the UK via boat.
Two British men and one Albanian national were arrested on a fishing boat in Cherbourg, France.
They had been preparing to leave the port in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Five migrants, believed to be Albanian, were also found on board.
The boat had left the Isle of Wight for France last Friday at around 2am.
UK officers later swooped in to arrest a 43-year-old man on the Isle of Wight on suspicion of conspiracy to facilitate illegal immigration and money laundering.
He has been released on bail while the three arrested in France remain in French custody.
The operation was lead by the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU) but also involved National Crime Agency, Border Force and the French authorities.
Detective Inspector Clair Trueman, from SEROCU, said: “We have worked closely with our counterparts in France and wider UK Law Enforcement partners to stop those who attempt to facilitate illegal immigration.
"In this particular case the organised crime group intended to transport a group of illegal migrants into the UK on a small boat.
"These criminals exploit vulnerable people in communities to make money without any considerations for their welfare.
"SEROCU will continue to work jointly with the NCA, Border and authorities broad to catch these organised crime groups and protect those at risk from them.”
National Crime Agency branch operations manager Martin Matthews added: “These arrests were made as a result of co-operation between the NCA, SEROCU, Border Force and our French partners.
"Working with them we are determined to do all we can to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks involved in immigration crime.
"People smugglers treat migrants as a commodity to be profited from, and are content to put them in situations of extreme danger. That is why this type of crime is a priority for us.”
Head of Operations for Border Force Maritime Command, Dennis Norman said: "These are significant arrests and indicative of the successful work that Border Force is engaged in to tackle people smuggling. By using our maritime capability in support of the operation we were able to provide vital assistance that enabled the arrests to be made.
"Working with our law enforcement partners at home and abroad, we are determined to bring those responsible for this kind of criminality to justice.”


thedailyecho--2020-06-30--Aldi unveils 18 Hampshire locations in store expansion plans

SUPERMARKET giant Aldi has announced that it is on the hunt for new store locations across Hampshire towns and cities , potentially creating around 500 new jobs across the county .
The German retailer is on the lookout for a variety of sites , including opening in some places for the first time as well as adding to existing stores in places like Southampton and Eastleigh .
The UK ’ s fifth largest supermarket has been on an expansion drive in recent years as it targets having 1,200 stores open by 2025 .
Among the Hampshire towns it hopes to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Totton , while its ambitions for New Milton remain in place despite the recent refusal of a planning application by New Forest District Council for a site in Caird Avenue .
Aldi , which currently has more than 880 stores across the UK , has identified 18 Hampshire locations where it is looking for freehold town-centre or edge-of-centre sites suitable for development .
It says each site should be around 1.5 acres and able to accommodate a 20,000 sq ft store with around 100 parking spaces , ideally on a prominent main road @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The supermarket said stores typically create 30 jobs , meaning if all 18 locations were found then approximately 540 new jobs would be made available .
Ciaran Aldridge , national property director at Aldi UK , said : “ Aldi is growing rapidly and we are welcoming around a million new customers into our stores every year .
“ But there are also hundreds of towns across the UK where there is not an Aldi , meaning there are hundreds of thousands of people who can ’ t easily access the high quality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We are willing to explore all opportunities , including developer-led schemes or existing retail units.
” The full list of locations it is targeting in Hampshire are :

The German retailer is on the lookout for a variety of sites, including opening in some places for the first time as well as adding to existing stores in places like Southampton and Eastleigh.
The UK’s fifth largest supermarket has been on an expansion drive in recent years as it targets having 1,200 stores open by 2025.
Among the Hampshire towns it hopes to open in are Lymington, Ringwood and Totton, while its ambitions for New Milton remain in place despite the recent refusal of a planning application by New Forest District Council for a site in Caird Avenue.
Aldi, which currently has more than 880 stores across the UK, has identified 18 Hampshire locations where it is looking for freehold town-centre or edge-of-centre sites suitable for development.
It says each site should be around 1.5 acres and able to accommodate a 20,000 sq ft store with around 100 parking spaces, ideally on a prominent main road and with good visibility and access.
The supermarket said stores typically create 30 jobs, meaning if all 18 locations were found then approximately 540 new jobs would be made available.
Ciaran Aldridge, national property director at Aldi UK, said: “Aldi is growing rapidly and we are welcoming around a million new customers into our stores every year.
“But there are also hundreds of towns across the UK where there is not an Aldi, meaning there are hundreds of thousands of people who can’t easily access the high quality, affordable food our customers love.
“We are willing to explore all opportunities, including developer-led schemes or existing retail units.”
The full list of locations it is targeting in Hampshire are:


thedailyecho--2020-06-30--Fareham jewellery burglaries land Andrew Evan Smith in jail

A HAMPSHIRE man has been jailed after he stole thousands of pounds worth of jewellery .
Andrew Evan Smith , of Goldsmith Avenue in Southsea , was jailed yesterday for 56 months after he committed four burglaries in Locks Heath .
The 34-year-old had admitted the offences when he appeared before Portsmouth Magistrates ' Court on May 26 .
On the afternoon of April 10 , Smith burgled a house in St Johns Road , and stole cash and a bank card from a wallet inside .
He then burgled a house in Warsash Road later that day and stole @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he burgled a house in Alum Way and stole jewellery from inside before going on to steal more jewellery from a house in Brook Lane .
A further five offences were taken into consideration at Portsmouth Crown Court yesterday .
PC Charlotte Pocock , from the Operation Hawk team , said : “ Smith caused misery to his victims , invading their homes and taking their belongings .
“ No-one should have to experience that , and I am pleased that we have been able to bring this to a swift conclusion for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ I want to thank the many witnesses who came forward and helped the police bring this man to justice .
”

Andrew Evan Smith, of Goldsmith Avenue in Southsea, was jailed yesterday for 56 months after he committed four burglaries in Locks Heath.
The 34-year-old had admitted the offences when he appeared before Portsmouth Magistrates' Court on May 26.
On the afternoon of April 10, Smith burgled a house in St Johns Road, and stole cash and a bank card from a wallet inside. He then burgled a house in Warsash Road later that day and stole watches and jewellery.
The next day he burgled a house in Alum Way and stole jewellery from inside before going on to steal more jewellery from a house in Brook Lane.
A further five offences were taken into consideration at Portsmouth Crown Court yesterday.
PC Charlotte Pocock, from the Operation Hawk team, said: “Smith caused misery to his victims, invading their homes and taking their belongings.
“No-one should have to experience that, and I am pleased that we have been able to bring this to a swift conclusion for those who have suffered because of him.
“I want to thank the many witnesses who came forward and helped the police bring this man to justice.”


thedailyecho--2020-06-30--Harmful drugs stolen from Hampshire vets overnight

POLICE have issued a warning after a large quantity animal medication was stolen from a Hampshire vets .
Officers are warning people to be cautious of taking medication that is not for human consumption after a quantity of prescription medication , including an anaesthetic used on horses , was stolen from a veterinary clinic overnight .
One of the drugs in particular – if inhaled , consumed orally or injected – could cause a severe reaction which could prove life threatening .
It comes in a bottle branded 'Iso-Flo ' and contains Isoflurane , a general anaesthetic used on dogs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the clinic on Worting Road , Basingstoke , between 8.30pm on June 29 and 5.55am on June 30 .
A spokesperson from Hampshire Police said : `` We are warning people that taking medications which are not prescribed for them and are not intended for human use , can have a significant and serious effect on their health and they should seek medical help immediately .
`` If anyone is offered these drugs or has any information about their whereabouts , please call 101 and quoting 44200238349 .
`` If you saw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ area overnight , please also get in touch by calling 101 using the same reference number .
`` Alternatively , you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 . ''

Officers are warning people to be cautious of taking medication that is not for human consumption after a quantity of prescription medication, including an anaesthetic used on horses, was stolen from a veterinary clinic overnight.
One of the drugs in particular – if inhaled, consumed orally or injected – could cause a severe reaction which could prove life threatening.
It comes in a bottle branded 'Iso-Flo' and contains Isoflurane, a general anaesthetic used on dogs and horses.
The drugs were taken from the clinic on Worting Road, Basingstoke, between 8.30pm on June 29 and 5.55am on June 30.
A spokesperson from Hampshire Police said: "We are warning people that taking medications which are not prescribed for them and are not intended for human use, can have a significant and serious effect on their health and they should seek medical help immediately.
"If anyone is offered these drugs or has any information about their whereabouts, please call 101 and quoting 44200238349.
"If you saw any suspicious activity in the Worting Road area overnight, please also get in touch by calling 101 using the same reference number.
"Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."


thedailyecho--2020-06-30--Man appears in court after £10m cocaine seizure

A MAN has been charged as part of a National Crime Agency investigation into the seizure of cocaine worth £10 million at a port .
Jean-Pierre Labelle , of Ashey Road in Ryde , Isle of Wight , was initially arrested by NCA officers in March , but he was re-arrested on Saturday , June 27 , and charged with importing class A drugs the next day .
Following an appearance at Newport Magistrates ' Court on Monday , June 29 , he was remanded in custody until his next appearance at Lewes Crown Court on 27 July .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Newhaven port in East Sussex in the early hours of November 23 last year .
Border Force officers recovered 97 packages each containing approximately a kilo of cocaine from the back of a van carrying frozen fish .
The driver , 50-year-old James Satterley from Cookham in Maidenhead , was later charged with importing class A drugs .
He now awaits trial .
NCA branch commander Peter Stevens said : “ Working with partners like Border Force we are determined to do all we can to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks involved in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Illegal drugs are linked to violence on our streets and the exploitation of the vulnerable , that is why this type of crime is a priority for us.
” Tim Kingsberry , Border Force regional director , said : “ This was an excellent seizure by Border Force officers , who have prevented a large amount of lethal Class A drugs from reaching the UK ’ s streets .
“ Alongside our law enforcement partners , we will continue to do all we can to disrupt the international trade in drug smuggling .
@

Jean-Pierre Labelle, of Ashey Road in Ryde, Isle of Wight, was initially arrested by NCA officers in March, but he was re-arrested on Saturday, June 27, and charged with importing class A drugs the next day.
Following an appearance at Newport Magistrates' Court on Monday, June 29, he was remanded in custody until his next appearance at Lewes Crown Court on 27 July.
The NCA investigation follows a seizure made at Newhaven port in East Sussex in the early hours of November 23 last year.
Border Force officers recovered 97 packages each containing approximately a kilo of cocaine from the back of a van carrying frozen fish.
The driver, 50-year-old James Satterley from Cookham in Maidenhead, was later charged with importing class A drugs. He now awaits trial.
NCA branch commander Peter Stevens said: “Working with partners like Border Force we are determined to do all we can to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks involved in attempts to circumvent border controls.
“Illegal drugs are linked to violence on our streets and the exploitation of the vulnerable, that is why this type of crime is a priority for us.”
Tim Kingsberry, Border Force regional director, said: “This was an excellent seizure by Border Force officers, who have prevented a large amount of lethal Class A drugs from reaching the UK’s streets.
“Alongside our law enforcement partners, we will continue to do all we can to disrupt the international trade in drug smuggling.”


thedailyecho--2020-06-29--Southampton rape investigation closed with no offences committed

AN INVESTIGATION into an alleged rape in Southampton city centre was closed by police after officers discovered no offences had @ @ @ @ @ out inquiries at Regent Street near Ogle Road after reports of the alleged rape came @ @ @ @ @ June 28 .
A police car was parked at the entrance of the street and @ @ @ @ @ cordon under the alleyway .
Forensics officers were seen at the site and passers-by were @ @ @ @ @ However on Monday evening , police confirmed that a crime had not been `` disclosed @ @ @ @ @ had taken place .
The investigation has now been closed , a force spokesperson said @ @ @ @ @ Constabulary added : `` Following our initial enquiries , we can confirm that a crime @ @ @ @ @ and no offences have been taken place .
`` Therefore , this investigation will be @ @ @

Officers carried out inquiries at Regent Street near Ogle Road after reports of the alleged rape came at 10.30pm on Sunday, June 28.
A police car was parked at the entrance of the street and police tape made up a cordon under the alleyway.
Forensics officers were seen at the site and passers-by were left concerned and confused.
However on Monday evening, police confirmed that a crime had not been "disclosed" and that no offences had taken place.
The investigation has now been closed, a force spokesperson said.
The spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary added: "Following our initial enquiries, we can confirm that a crime has not been disclosed, and no offences have been taken place.
"Therefore, this investigation will be closed."


thedailyecho--2020-06-30--Camping in the Forest to keep 3,000 pitches closed for 2020

A LEADING leisure company has sparked fury by refusing to reopen ten New Forest campsites which provide a total of 3,000 pitches .
There are fears the Forest will be invaded by a huge number of families determined to camp in the area despite the closure of official sites .
Camping in the Forest leases sites from Forestry England , which is urging the company to review its decision to keep them shut until next summer .
Some of the facilities run by other organisations in the area are reopening following a relaxation of the national lockdown .
But the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ major sites has sparked fears that the Forest will be hit by a wave of illegal camping .
Residents claim the area could suffer the sort of chaos seen at Bournemouth last week , when huge numbers of people packed the beaches .
Richard Frampton , of Bransgore , is a former member of New Forest District Council and the New Forest National Park Authority .
He said : `` This is going to cause absolute armageddon in the Forest .
We 're going to have wild camping everywhere .
We 're going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're going to be getting litter .
`` We 've already seen what Bournemouth beach is like and we 've also seen the recent fires in Wareham Forest . ''
District councillor David Harrison added : `` It ’ s clearly unwise for people to visit the New Forest , expecting to camp , without being able to secure a campsite booking . ''
In a message to customers Camping in the Forest says : `` We are sorry to say our sites will remain closed for the rest of 2020 .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unique challenges , meaning we would be unable to meet our high hygiene standards and adhere to government guidance on new measures around the running of campsites . ''
But many people have taken to social media to criticise the company , with some claiming the area will be inundated by people `` camping anywhere '' .
One person posted : `` At least one of your campsites , Setthorns , has no shared facilities , so where is the concern for hygiene standards there ? ''
A Forestry England spokesperson added : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us of their decision not to open any of the campsites they have across the UK for the rest of the season .
`` We hope they might take the time to quickly review and reconsider .
`` We continue to work with other forest organisations , landowners and local stakeholders to find additional ways to try to limit the impacts of wild camping and other anti-social use of the Forest . ''

There are fears the Forest will be invaded by a huge number of families determined to camp in the area despite the closure of official sites.
Camping in the Forest leases sites from Forestry England, which is urging the company to review its decision to keep them shut until next summer.
Some of the facilities run by other organisations in the area are reopening following a relaxation of the national lockdown.
But the continued closure of Hollands Wood and other major sites has sparked fears that the Forest will be hit by a wave of illegal camping.
Residents claim the area could suffer the sort of chaos seen at Bournemouth last week, when huge numbers of people packed the beaches.
Richard Frampton, of Bransgore, is a former member of New Forest District Council and the New Forest National Park Authority.
He said: "This is going to cause absolute armageddon in the Forest. We're going to have wild camping everywhere. We're going to be getting fires, and we're going to be getting litter.
"We've already seen what Bournemouth beach is like and we've also seen the recent fires in Wareham Forest."
District councillor David Harrison added: "It’s clearly unwise for people to visit the New Forest, expecting to camp, without being able to secure a campsite booking."
In a message to customers Camping in the Forest says: "We are sorry to say our sites will remain closed for the rest of 2020.
"It was clear our forest campsites posed unique challenges, meaning we would be unable to meet our high hygiene standards and adhere to government guidance on new measures around the running of campsites."
But many people have taken to social media to criticise the company, with some claiming the area will be inundated by people "camping anywhere".
One person posted: "At least one of your campsites, Setthorns, has no shared facilities, so where is the concern for hygiene standards there?"
A Forestry England spokesperson added: "Camping in the Forest has advised us of their decision not to open any of the campsites they have across the UK for the rest of the season.
"We hope they might take the time to quickly review and reconsider.
"We continue to work with other forest organisations, landowners and local stakeholders to find additional ways to try to limit the impacts of wild camping and other anti-social use of the Forest."
CONTACT ME
t: 023 8042 4503
e: chris.yandell@
dailyecho.co.uk


thedailyecho--2020-06-30--Southampton's new driving course aims to improve safety for cyclists

A NEW online driving course , aimed at improving drivers ' understanding of cyclist safety , has been launched in Southampton .
Researchers at the University of Southampton have launched the new online training course , which will increase people 's understanding of what it 's like to be a cyclist on the road .
Any driver who never , or rarely , cycles can sign up for the course which has been designed to help drivers see the road through the eyes of cyclists and become familiar with how the Highway Code applies to them , and it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a better understanding of why cyclists undertake certain manoeuvres and anticipate how they will position themselves in various situations .
The decline in public transport use as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic will see more people travelling by car and bicycle in the coming months and cyclists are disproportionately represented in accident statistics .
In 2016 more than 18,000 cyclists were injured in road accidents in the UK , 3499 of whom were killed or seriously injured , and on average in Southampton 124 cyclists are involved in collisions on the city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up 16 % of all accidents despite representing only 1.4 % of daily traffic .
Dr Katie Plant , Lecturer in Human Factors in Engineering at the University of Southampton , who is leading the study said : “ Most drivers do not get any specific training on how to interact with cyclists , unless they encounter bicycles during their driving lessons .
Despite it being such a high risk scenario , it does not feature as part of the standard driving test and many of us will never revisit the Highway Code @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a result , a lot of people don ’ t understand how to interact with cyclists on the roads.
” The University ’ s Transport Research Group developed the course in partnership with Cycling UK and with funding from the Road Safety Trust , and the team want this course to complement the advanced driving tests which many drivers take to improve their driving skills , with a particular focus on how to interact with cyclists .
Users will have access to interactive exercises and videos that explain how cyclists should behave in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on roundabouts , and how cars can move safely passed them and a practical course , similar to the cycling proficiency test , will also be available to everyone who registers once the Government ’ s advice on social distancing means it is safe to carry out .
Anyone looking to register for the drivers ’ course can do so by emailing Joy.Richardson @ soton.ac.uk .

Researchers at the University of Southampton have launched the new online training course, which will increase people's understanding of what it's like to be a cyclist on the road.
Any driver who never, or rarely, cycles can sign up for the course which has been designed to help drivers see the road through the eyes of cyclists and become familiar with how the Highway Code applies to them, and it is hoped that this will provide them with a better understanding of why cyclists undertake certain manoeuvres and anticipate how they will position themselves in various situations.
The decline in public transport use as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic will see more people travelling by car and bicycle in the coming months and cyclists are disproportionately represented in accident statistics.
In 2016 more than 18,000 cyclists were injured in road accidents in the UK, 3499 of whom were killed or seriously injured, and on average in Southampton 124 cyclists are involved in collisions on the city’s roads each year, making up 16% of all accidents despite representing only 1.4% of daily traffic.
Dr Katie Plant, Lecturer in Human Factors in Engineering at the University of Southampton, who is leading the study said: “Most drivers do not get any specific training on how to interact with cyclists, unless they encounter bicycles during their driving lessons. Despite it being such a high risk scenario, it does not feature as part of the standard driving test and many of us will never revisit the Highway Code once we have passed. So as a result, a lot of people don’t understand how to interact with cyclists on the roads.”
The University’s Transport Research Group developed the course in partnership with Cycling UK and with funding from the Road Safety Trust, and the team want this course to complement the advanced driving tests which many drivers take to improve their driving skills, with a particular focus on how to interact with cyclists.
Users will have access to interactive exercises and videos that explain how cyclists should behave in various scenarios such as at crossroads and on roundabouts, and how cars can move safely passed them and a practical course, similar to the cycling proficiency test, will also be available to everyone who registers once the Government’s advice on social distancing means it is safe to carry out.
Anyone looking to register for the drivers’ course can do so by emailing Joy.Richardson@soton.ac.uk.


thedailyecho--2020-06-30--IN THE COURTS: Seven people who appeared at Southampton Magistrates' Court

Among the cases heard at Southampton Magistrates ' Court were ... CHRISTOPHER PETER EVERETT , 28 , of Bartley Avenue , Southampton .
Pleaded guilty to assaulting two police officers .
Fined £1,000 .
Ordered to pay compensation totalling £1,700 and £85 court costs .
THOMAS STEPHEN MINIHAN , 29 , of Mansergh Walk , Totton .
Pleaded guilty to drink driving .
Disqualified from driving for 36 months .
Ordered to pay £85 victim surcharge and £85 court costs .
Community order made to participate in a drink driving programme for 16 days and to do 80 hours unpaid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Perran Road , Southampton .
Pleaded guilty to property damage , driving without a licence and driving without insurance .
Disqualified from driving for six months .
Fined £200 .
Ordered to pay £32 victim surcharge and £50 court costs .
DAMIEN JOHN HOLLAND , 28 , of Oxford Street , Southampton , Pleased guilty to damaging a police vehicle and assault .
Ordered to pay victim surcharge of £22 .
RADOSLAW PAWLOWSKI , 34 , of Wilton Avenue , Southampton .
Pleaded guilty to assault .
Committed to prison for 12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a restraining order banning him from contacting the victim .
Ordered to pay £128 victim surcharge and £85 court costs .
JORDAN GREGORY MATTHEWS , 18 , of Fair Oak Court , Fair Oak .
Pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis .
Discharged conditionally for one year .
Ordered to pay victim surcharge of £22 and court costs of £50 .
KELLY MARIE HENNESSEY , 37 , of Howard Road , Southampton .
Pleaded guilty to breaching a restraining order .
Community order for alcohol treatment and rehabilitation activity .
Ordered to pay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of £85

CHRISTOPHER PETER EVERETT, 28, of Bartley Avenue, Southampton. Pleaded guilty to assaulting two police officers. Fined £1,000. Ordered to pay compensation totalling £1,700 and £85 court costs.
THOMAS STEPHEN MINIHAN, 29, of Mansergh Walk, Totton. Pleaded guilty to drink driving. Disqualified from driving for 36 months. Ordered to pay £85 victim surcharge and £85 court costs. Community order made to participate in a drink driving programme for 16 days and to do 80 hours unpaid work.
ERIN GLASSPOOL, 18, of Perran Road, Southampton. Pleaded guilty to property damage, driving without a licence and driving without insurance. Disqualified from driving for six months. Fined £200. Ordered to pay £32 victim surcharge and £50 court costs.
DAMIEN JOHN HOLLAND, 28, of Oxford Street, Southampton, Pleased guilty to damaging a police vehicle and assault. Ordered to pay victim surcharge of £22.
RADOSLAW PAWLOWSKI, 34, of Wilton Avenue, Southampton. Pleaded guilty to assault. Committed to prison for 12 weeks suspended for two years and handed a restraining order banning him from contacting the victim. Ordered to pay £128 victim surcharge and £85 court costs.
JORDAN GREGORY MATTHEWS, 18, of Fair Oak Court, Fair Oak. Pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis. Discharged conditionally for one year. Ordered to pay victim surcharge of £22 and court costs of £50.
KELLY MARIE HENNESSEY, 37, of Howard Road, Southampton. Pleaded guilty to breaching a restraining order. Community order for alcohol treatment and rehabilitation activity. Ordered to pay victim surcharge of £95 and court costs of £85


thedailyecho--2020-07-01--RNLI rescue near Hurst Castle

RNLI rescue near Hurst Castle

LIFEBOAT crews rushed to rescue a boat which almost flipped over in Hampshire today .
Members of Yarmouth RNLI were called after the 35-foot yacht turned on its side by the rocks near Hurst Castle , in Milford on Sea .
Two people were on board during the incident , and one witness said a man was being `` taken all over the place '' .
Jon Cook , 54 , who was going for a walk with his son , said : `` We were walking around Hurst Castle and turned the corner to see a boat on its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clambered over to see if they needed a hand , the boat was only four metres off the groynes .
There was a brave chap on the front being taken all over the place . ''
The yacht was caught up in rough conditions with south westerly winds of up to 29 knots at 1.23pm , according to Yarmouth RNLI .
The decision was then made for the RNLI to attach a tow line and attempt to free the vessel that had got caught .
`` There was another guy in the back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ RNLI turned up , they yanked it free off the rocks , which made a few big noises , '' added Jon .
The boat was then taken into Lymington Yacht Haven by Yarmouth RNLI , where she was met by coastguard teams and lifted out to check for damage .
Coxswain Howard Lester , said : `` Ensure that weather conditions and tides are taken into careful consideration , along with navigational hazards as part of passage planning before setting sail . ''
No injuries were reported during the incident .

Members of Yarmouth RNLI were called after the 35-foot yacht turned on its side by the rocks near Hurst Castle, in Milford on Sea on Wednesday.
Two people were on board during the incident, and one witness said a man was being "taken all over the place".
Jon Cook, 54, who was going for a walk with his son, said: "We were walking around Hurst Castle and turned the corner to see a boat on its side by the rocks.
"We clambered over to see if they needed a hand, the boat was only four metres off the groynes. There was a brave chap on the front being taken all over the place."
The yacht was caught up in rough conditions with south westerly winds of up to 29 knots at 1.23pm, according to Yarmouth RNLI.
The decision was then made for the RNLI to attach a tow line and attempt to free the vessel that had got caught.
"There was another guy in the back of the boat, and when the RNLI turned up, they yanked it free off the rocks, which made a few big noises," added Jon.
The boat was then taken into Lymington Yacht Haven by Yarmouth RNLI, where she was met by coastguard teams and lifted out to check for damage.
Coxswain Howard Lester, said: "Ensure that weather conditions and tides are taken into careful consideration, along with navigational hazards as part of passage planning before setting sail."
No injuries were reported during the incident.


thedailyecho--2020-07-02--A31 eastbound crash leaves motorcyclist with serious injuries

A MOTORCYCLIST was rushed to hospital with serious injuries following a hit and run incident this morning .
The 22-year-old rider suffered `` serious injuries '' following a crash on the A31 at around 3.20am .
A Sinnis ZS125 and a Honda Civic collided on the A31 eastbound near Burley Services .
However , the driver of the Honda reportedly fled the scene before a van ploughed into the motorbike .
It flipped over with both vehicles then catching fire .
They were 100 per cent destroyed , according to Hampshire Fire and Rescue Services .
Fire crews attend hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police roadblock was put in place while paramedics also attended .
Meanwhile , the A31 eastbound was closed with motorists urged to take alternative routes .
A crew from Ringwood Fire Station helped by Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service put out the burning vehicles .
The stop message came in at 4.20am and the A31 has since reopened .
A police spokesperson said : `` We were called at 3.24am with reports of an overturned vehicle on fire on the A31 eastbound , just past Burley Services .
`` Initial enquiries indicate a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the road before a van subsequently collided with the motorbike .
`` The van overturned , and both the van and the motorbike caught fire .
`` The Honda did not remain at the scene .
`` The motorcyclist sustained serious injuries and was taken to hospital . ''
Witnesses are urged to call police on 101 quoting reference number 44200241528 .

The 22-year-old rider suffered "serious injuries" following a crash on the A31 at around 3.20am.
A Sinnis ZS125 and a Honda Civic collided on the A31 eastbound near Burley Services.
However, the driver of the Honda reportedly fled the scene before a van ploughed into the motorbike.
It flipped over with both vehicles then catching fire.
They were 100 per cent destroyed, according to Hampshire Fire and Rescue Services.
Fire crews attend hit and run incident on the A31
A police roadblock was put in place while paramedics also attended.
Meanwhile, the A31 eastbound was closed with motorists urged to take alternative routes.
A crew from Ringwood Fire Station helped by Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service put out the burning vehicles.
The stop message came in at 4.20am and the A31 has since reopened.
A police spokesperson said: "We were called at 3.24am with reports of an overturned vehicle on fire on the A31 eastbound, just past Burley Services.
"Initial enquiries indicate a Honda Civic and a motorbike collided on the road before a van subsequently collided with the motorbike.
"The van overturned, and both the van and the motorbike caught fire.
"The Honda did not remain at the scene.
"The motorcyclist sustained serious injuries and was taken to hospital."
Witnesses are urged to call police on 101 quoting reference number 44200241528.


thedailyecho--2020-07-02--Cocaine smuggling suspected on cruise liner from South America

A MAJOR CRIME investigation involved a group suspected of attempting to import cocaine from South America into the south of England on a cruise ship liner being stopped in the Solent .
Supported by Border Force , the National Crime Agency 's ( NCA ) Operation Sylleptic led to three people being arrested earlier this year , including a crew member of the cruise ship .
Two others from the north of England were later arrested , one at the Channel Tunnel terminal in Kent as they attempted to leave the UK .
The cruise ship arrests took place on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as part of a major NCA announcement on efforts to fight criminal conspiracies .
All five people suspected of attempting to smuggle drugs have been charged and now await trial .
Operation Sylleptic is one of many investigations revealed by UK crime-fighting agencies as they announced a massive breakthrough in the fight against serious and organised crime .
Working together they have `` smashed thousands of criminal conspiracies '' including a global communication network - EncroChat - used `` exclusively by criminals '' .
EncroChat reportedly offers a secure phone messaging service used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ illegal commodities .
With 60,000 users worldwide and around 10,000 users in the UK , it is also used to aid money laundering and plotting to kill rival criminals .
Since 2016 , the National Crime Agency has been working with international law enforcement agencies to target EncroChat .
In the UK - and part of Operation Venetic - the NCA says it has made 746 arrests , seized £54 million cash , 77 firearms and over two tonnes of drugs .
NCA Director of Investigations Nikki Holland said : “ The infiltration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the UK ’ s criminal marketplace is like having an inside person in every top organised crime group in the country .
“ This is the broadest and deepest ever UK operation into serious organised crime .
“ The NCA is proud to have led the UK part of this operation , working in partnership with policing and other agencies .
The results have been outstanding but this is just the start .
“ A dedicated team of over 500 NCA officers has been working on Operation Venetic night and day , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s all been made possible because of the superb work with our international partners .
“ Together we ’ ve protected the public by arresting middle-tier criminals and the kingpins , the so-called iconic untouchables who have evaded law enforcement for years , and now we have the evidence to prosecute them .
“ The NCA plays a key role in international efforts to combat encrypted comms .
I ’ d say to any criminal who uses an encrypted phone , you should be very , very worried .
”

Supported by Border Force, the National Crime Agency's (NCA) Operation Sylleptic led to three people being arrested earlier this year, including a crew member of the cruise ship.
Two others from the north of England were later arrested, one at the Channel Tunnel terminal in Kent as they attempted to leave the UK.
The cruise ship arrests took place on April 25 and have been detailed today as part of a major NCA announcement on efforts to fight criminal conspiracies.
All five people suspected of attempting to smuggle drugs have been charged and now await trial.
Operation Sylleptic is one of many investigations revealed by UK crime-fighting agencies as they announced a massive breakthrough in the fight against serious and organised crime.
Working together they have "smashed thousands of criminal conspiracies" including a global communication network - EncroChat - used "exclusively by criminals".
EncroChat reportedly offers a secure phone messaging service used for planning, and the distribution of illegal commodities.
With 60,000 users worldwide and around 10,000 users in the UK, it is also used to aid money laundering and plotting to kill rival criminals.
Since 2016, the National Crime Agency has been working with international law enforcement agencies to target EncroChat.
In the UK - and part of Operation Venetic - the NCA says it has made 746 arrests, seized £54 million cash, 77 firearms and over two tonnes of drugs.
NCA Director of Investigations Nikki Holland said: “The infiltration of this command and control communication platform for the UK’s criminal marketplace is like having an inside person in every top organised crime group in the country.
“This is the broadest and deepest ever UK operation into serious organised crime.
“The NCA is proud to have led the UK part of this operation, working in partnership with policing and other agencies. The results have been outstanding but this is just the start.
“A dedicated team of over 500 NCA officers has been working on Operation Venetic night and day, and thousands more across policing. And it’s all been made possible because of the superb work with our international partners.
“Together we’ve protected the public by arresting middle-tier criminals and the kingpins, the so-called iconic untouchables who have evaded law enforcement for years, and now we have the evidence to prosecute them.
“The NCA plays a key role in international efforts to combat encrypted comms. I’d say to any criminal who uses an encrypted phone, you should be very, very worried.”


thedailyecho--2020-07-02--West Quay rape: Victim's statement on attack by Krystian Kwarta

A RAPIST who repeatedly banged his victim ’ s head against a metal pole during a horrific city centre attack has been jailed for eight years .
Krystian Kwarta “ pounced ” on a 21-year-old woman as she walked to work in “ broad daylight ” .
His victim believed she “ was going to die ” during the attack outside Westquay Shopping Centre on February 15 this year .
Kwarta , 20 , of Keyhaven Road , Milford-on-Sea appeared before Southampton Crown Court on Wednesday .
• Rapist jailed for 'premeditated and brutal attack ' on woman at West @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and one of assault occasioning bodily harm - he pleaded guilty on March 21 .
His victim was left with “ bruises and swelling to her face , chin and the underside of her jaw ” , as well as “ severe psychological harm ” .
The court heard how at the time she was wearing headphones but sensed someone behind her just before 8am that day .
Kwarta put his arm around her throat , “ banged her head against a metal pole , pulled her hair and pushed her face into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Timothy Bradbury told how the victim believed she was going to die and begged Kwarta not to kill her repeatedly .
After the attack , Kwarta kicked her bag away and stole her phone disposing of it near the former Toys “ R ” Us car park .
A victim statement read out in court said : “ I feel scared all the time .
I remember as my head was smacked against a metal pole multiple times .
I remember trying to scream but no sound came out .
I was in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like I was being punished.
” Following his arrest on February 16 , Kwarta he gave a no comment interview .
It was said how the night before the attack he had been out with friends in Southampton - drinking and taking cocaine - they parted company sometime after 4am .
He was defended by barrister Tom Horder with mitigating factors including his age and that he has no previous convictions in the UK or abroad .
Meanwhile , Kwarta previously “ expressed he was sorry for what he had done ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ the victim ] is a person .
She is not an object .
You attacked her in this appalling way .
At the time you saw her it was daylight .
Your actions have had a devastating effect upon that young woman.
” Judge Henry deemed Kwarta ’ s actions degrading and violent and that he is a high risk to women .
Kwarta stood clutching a tissue and sobbing as he was jailed for eight years .
He was given with an additional four years on licence .

Krystian Kwarta “pounced” on a 21-year-old woman as she walked to work in “broad daylight”.
His victim believed she “was going to die” during the attack outside Westquay Shopping Centre on February 15 this year.
Kwarta, 20, of Keyhaven Road, Milford-on-Sea appeared before Southampton Crown Court on Wednesday.
He faced two charges of rape and one of assault occasioning bodily harm - he pleaded guilty on March 21.
His victim was left with “bruises and swelling to her face, chin and the underside of her jaw”, as well as “severe psychological harm”.
The court heard how at the time she was wearing headphones but sensed someone behind her just before 8am that day.
Kwarta put his arm around her throat, “banged her head against a metal pole, pulled her hair and pushed her face into the concrete floor”.
Prosecuting, Timothy Bradbury told how the victim believed she was going to die and begged Kwarta not to kill her repeatedly.
After the attack, Kwarta kicked her bag away and stole her phone disposing of it near the former Toys“R”Us car park.
A victim statement read out in court said: “I feel scared all the time. I remember as my head was smacked against a metal pole multiple times. I remember trying to scream but no sound came out. I was in so much pain.
“I felt like I was being punished.”
Following his arrest on February 16, Kwarta he gave a no comment interview.
It was said how the night before the attack he had been out with friends in Southampton - drinking and taking cocaine - they parted company sometime after 4am.
He was defended by barrister Tom Horder with mitigating factors including his age and that he has no previous convictions in the UK or abroad. Meanwhile, Kwarta previously “expressed he was sorry for what he had done”.
Sentencing Judge Henry said: “She [the victim] is a person. She is not an object. You attacked her in this appalling way. At the time you saw her it was daylight. Your actions have had a devastating effect upon that young woman.”
Judge Henry deemed Kwarta’s actions degrading and violent and that he is a high risk to women.
Kwarta stood clutching a tissue and sobbing as he was jailed for eight years. He was given with an additional four years on licence.
CONTACT ME:
t: 023 8042 4471
e: tom.orde@
dailyecho.co.uk


thedailyecho--2020-07-02--Coastguard rescue teams scramble to help man near Hythe Marina

A YOUNG man has been rescued after fracturing his leg on a coastal path .
The man suffered an `` @ @ @ @ @ falling from his bike onto rocks north of Hythe Marina at around 12.30am last night @ @ @ @ @ help the man but could not `` extract '' him using a boat from Calshot @ @ @ @ @ coastguard teams from Southampton and Lymington to carry the man to safety using a stretcher @ @ @ @ @ hospital and rescue teams stood down just after 3am .
No one else was injured @ @ @ @

The man suffered an "open leg fracture" after falling from his bike onto rocks north of Hythe Marina at around 12.30am last night.
Emergency services scrambled to help the man but could not "extract" him using a boat from Calshot RNLI.
Paramedics worked with coastguard teams from Southampton and Lymington to carry the man to safety using a stretcher.
He was rushed to hospital and rescue teams stood down just after 3am.
No one else was injured during the incident.