Minister announces new affordable homes in Kettering

The government has announced that twenty six affordable new houses are to be built in Kettering

Under the Affordable Housing Guarantees Scheme, £208 million has been loaned to housing associations across the country to build the new homes.

Unveiling the plans today, Housing Minister, Kris Hopkins, said "Today's deal means thousands of new homes will be built in communities...for families in real need."

Mr Hopkins continued "And thanks to our hard-won and strong economic record, cutting the record deficit we inherited, these housing associations have access to funding for house building at some of the lowest rates the sector has ever seen."

The Home Group are the association that has been given the loan for the building work in Kettering.

The scheme aims to build 4,800 low cost homes, a further 17 of which will be in Northampton.

By Tom Hornbuckle

Saints ready for season finale

On Saturday afternoon Northampton Saints take on Saracens at Twickenham in the Aviva Premiership Rugby final.

It is the biggest domestic rugby union final and is getting bigger every season, selling out Twickenham for the last six years.

Saints look to bag their second trophy of this season after winning the Amlin Challenge Cup just last week.

Jim Mallinder, Northampton Saints coach told BBC Sport: "We're a better team than what we were last year and we've shown that in our performances last week and against Bath,"

Saracens finished top of the league with 87 points, nine points more than Saints and are the bookies favourite so this is not going to be an easy game.

However, Saints epic semi-final victory over Leicester, their first triumph in 10 attempts against the Tigers, should fill them with confidence.

If Saints win, not only will it be their first ever Premiership title, but they will become the first English team to win the double since London Wasps in 2003.

Coverage of the game starts on BT Sport at 2pm. Kick-off is at 3pm.

We’ll be tweeting live updates shortly before kick-off.

Team Line Ups have been confirmed as follows:

Saints

15 Ben Foden, 14 Ken Pisi, 13 George Pisi, 12 Luther Burrell, 11 George North, 10 Stephen Myler, 9 Kahn Fotuali’i. 1 Alex Corbisiero, 2 Mikw Haywood, 3 Salesi Ma’afu, 4 Samu Manoa, 5 Courtney Lawes, 6 Calum Clark, 7 Tom Wood (capt), 8 Sam Dickinson

Saracens

15 Alex Goode, 14 Chris Ashton, 13 Marcelo Bosch, 12 Brad Barritt, 11 David Strettle, 10 Owen Farrell, 9 Neil de Kock. 1 Richard Barrington, 2 Shalk Brits, 3 Matt Stevens, 4 Steve Borthwick (capt), 5 Mouritz Botha, 6 Kelly Brown, 7 Jacques Burger, 8 Billy Vunipola

By Joe Shine

Council give green light to outside drinking at popular pub

Kettering Borough Council have approved a planning application for tables to be placed on the pavement outside a popular Kettering pub.

The Earl of Dalkieth, on Dalkieth Place, submitted the plans in March and the council approved them this month.

It will allow the pub, part of the JD Wetherspoon chain, to place four tables on the public footpath directly in front of the building.

Local resident and Earl of Dalkieth customer, Mick Kane

said "The smoking issue in the doorway is already a big problem, this will make it worse I fear."

Information available on the Kettering Borough Council website shows that only one member of the public had objected to the plans.

Amongst the concerns were that the footpath is not wide enough and that the decision may set a precedent for other pubs in the town.

The Development Officer, Richard Marlow, stated in his report "The proposal is located in an area with a pavement which is in excess of 5 metres in width and as such it is considered that the proposed change of use would not detrimentally impact upon the highway network."

Northamptonshire Police made no objections.

By Tom Hornbuckle

Burger King set to open in Kettering

Image: here.

Fast food giant Burger King is to open a new restaurant on the A14 in Kettering.

The planned outlet will be on the westbound services between J8 and J9, however it is unsure whether Little Chef will remain.

The town has lacked a Burger King since 2007, when Nando's took over their store in Carina Way.

Corby town centre, or a trip down to Thrapston on the A14 have been the only viable options of buying a 'Whopper' since then.

Local resident Jack Sutton, 18, was 'dissapointed' when Burger King originally left the town, but says he is 'excited' about the prospect of a local restaurant.

He said, "It offers a variety to the 3 McDonalds, 3 Subways and 2 KFC's that we have in the town."

Little Chef has been the victim of a steady decline since the early 2000's, perhaps due to competition from much more successful fast-food chains.

The 78 restaurants they have left in Great Britain face uncertainty over whether or not they will remain this time next year.

Note – It is unsure at this time whether staff from Little Chef will be affected.

By Stephen Matthews

World Cup Preview: 15 Days To Go

Sinking its venomous fangs into our heads every 4 years, you should know it’s about to happen once again – but this time the scar is going to be even bigger. On June 12^th, the world’s greatest event will have taken over everyday life, what could be better? Rio de Janeiro’s turn at hosting the prestigious competition is coming closer and closer; is it set to be the best World Cup we have ever seen? Football is the Brazilian passion, the perfect setting for the most exciting month of Football we’ll see for years.

Below is just a little preview as the 8 groups, and who we are expecting to progress into the further stages. I think it’s pretty obvious that Brazil are favourites to lift the trophy in the comfort of their own house, but not without close competition from local rivals Argentina and strong European contenders Germany & Spain. You'll see my opinion at the end of the article. 

Group A (Brazil, Croatia, Mexico, Cameroon)

A relatively easy group for Brazil, con

sidering their home advantage. The real battle within this group is that of second place. Croatia have a very good chance of progressing, a decent side full of some technically superb players. An excellent goal scorer in Mandzukic and two great playmakers in Modric and Rakitic. However they have not reached into the round of 16 since 1998. Mexico in my opinion are unlikely to finish second in this group; they have the basis of a good team, but no stand-out game changing players. Their only threat comes from Hernandez, an excellent poacher. However, I don’t think Mexico are likely to cause any real problems for the other teams. They are missing out by not having Vela in their side. Cameroon were incredibly lucky to have qualified for the World Cup after winning only half of their 8 games in the qualifying stage. However, like Croatia they have some very talented players. Mbia is the definition of versatile, he can play at centre-back, centre midfielder, centre forward, but his position for Cameroon tends to be at right back. Obviously Eto’o will be a big threat for all of Cameroon's opponents, and after a reasonably successful season at Chelsea his ability to score goals might shine through.

Group B (Spain, Holland, Chile, Australia)

On paper it's fairly obvious that this group is destined to have Spain and Holland run out in first and second place fairly comfortably. But that's the opinion of the silly man who excludes the strong Chilean side. Arguably the greatest team Chile have ever been able to field, they have the potential to reach the later rounds of the tournament. Vidal who commands the centre of the park will be a huge bonus in all 3 of their group games, and the pace of Sanchez running down the wings will send fear into their opponents eyes. Holland aren't the team they used to be, and they don't have the same level of chemistry as they did previous. Van Gaal has reunited it to some extent, and with this being his final bow as the Dutch boss before his big move to Manchester United, it's expected that Holland will go out with a bang. As for Australia, they are the lowest ranked nation in the tournament, and unfortunately I don't see them getting a point this time round.

Group C (Colombia, Greece, Ivory Coast, Japan)

5th best team in the World isn't exactly an easy feat, so let's not rule out Colombia for going the distance just yet. However, Falcao's injury means that it isn't yet a certainty as to whether the successful hitman will be bagging the goals in the tournament in 15 days time. Ivory Coast have the potential to win the group, a great team and there's no need of an introduction for Yaya Toure is there? But let's not rule Greece out either, especially when they are ranked higher than England in the FIFA World Rankings. A solid defence combined with a decent finisher in Mitroglou could cause problems. Do we need to mention Euro 2004? Japan don't really get a say in this group, with the exception of Kagawa and Honda they haven't got much hope of winning any game.

Group D (Uruguay, Costa Rica, England, Italy)

You could consider this the 'group of death', but that's if you consider England to be a formidable playing nation. Uruguay are without a doubt favourites to top this group, and they should do so fairly comfortably. Cavani and Suarez up front is perhaps the deadliest strike force possible at this World Cup, but that's only if Premier League top scorer Suarez overcomes his injury. Second place has got to be between Italy and England, with the result of the game between the two on the 14th June having a key say in who finishes where. Let's hope our young team surprises us, but let's not expect miracles from them. Italy are a solid side, but they aren't a giant anymore. 

Group E (Switzerland, Ecuador, France, Honduras)

If France don't win this group, heads will roll at the French Football Federation. Much like Italy and Holland, France aren't the same team as they used to be. Talented players lie deep within their ranks, but their chemistry is pretty much non-existent. Ribery and Benzema are obvious threats that don't need to be explained. The Swiss are somehow ranked 8th in the World, one place below Argentina. An unbeaten road to qualifying for the World Cup, with perhaps the easiest group possible, they don't stand much competition for second place. A good team with no stand-out players, but i'm sure Shaqiri will do some damage when he's given the chance. Ecuador have an outside chance at third place, but Honduras are probably relishing performing alongside some of the best footballers on the planet.

Group F (Argentina, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Iran, Nigeria)

Argentina should win this group quite comfortably, lots of world-class players and experience of the South American climate are two of the primary factors as to why they are in with a serious chance of winning the whole thing. Bosnia will be hoping for a second place finish, with Dzeko being able to score against absolutely anyone. A magnificent stopper in Begovic should help them stay in with a chance in all of their games. However, the outside shot at second place has to go to Nigeria. Winners of the African Cup of Nations in 2013, a team filled with great speed and enthusiasm, they could well surprise us. Iran have had a very easy road to the World Cup facing teams such as: Bahrain and Lebanon. They aren't a great team and have no stand out players, so I don’t really see them grabbing a point against anyone. I dread to think the damage Messi is going to cause against them.

Group G (Germany, Portugal, Ghana, USA)

This, in my opinion, is the ultimate 'group of death'. Germany are one of the best teams around right now, players such as Lahm, Schweinsteiger, Muller and Ozil are the reason the Deutsch will run away in first place. Despite being ranked third in the FIFA World Rankings, Portugal will face an incredibly tough time finishing second. Even though they have the likes of Ronaldo and Pepe, they struggled to qualify for the World Cup; finishing below Russia. Over-rated comes to mind. Ghana are probably going to struggle, but they aren't a bad team, they just unfortunately have been placed in the toughest group going. USA will surprise everyone - you heard it here first. Klinnsmann has done a terrific job since taking over. They finished top in their qualifying group, and they beat Germany in a friendly last year. The exclusion of their talisman Donovan could be a costly decision however.

Group H (Belgium, Algeria, Russia, Korea Republic)

Belgium have improved vastly over the last few years, and should come out on top of this group. Players such as Hazard, Lukaku and Kompany will provide them the strength to reach the further stages of the tournament. An exciting team with plenty of young talent, keep an eye on them for the next few tournaments. Russia should finish second, a strong finisher in Kerzhakov will pose threats to everyone in the group. Their excellent form in qualifying should continue to the World Cup, however the climate does provide a serious problem to their players. Brazilian temperatures are going to be on the other end of the stick that the Russian players are used to, and it could see them suffer. Algeria have a couple of decent players, including Valencia playmaker Feghouli, but I can't see them getting out of the group. Korea Republic are the second lowest ranked team, and it's a fair judgment. 

·

This is the perfect opportunity for

Messi to come to the front and show the World what he is made of, and explain to the global audience why he should be considered in the same bracket as South American footballing legends Pele and Maradona. The climate is set to play a big part in deciding who makes the final stages of the World Cup, leading me to believe European teams will struggle.

Whatever happens, it should be a brilliant World Cup and I am incredibly excited for it.

By Joe Shine

New development under fire from wildlife officials

The start of the development, Warkton Lane. Image: here

Wildlife officers are investigating the new development at the top of Warkton Lane, after hedgerows were carelessly removed. 

Allegations are rife of the hedgerow being home to groups of nesting birds, with lots of local residents being very angry at Kettering Borough Council's decision to remove it.

The Council, who have turned a blind eye to the issue, are fully aware of their actions according to one local resident.

Kaarin Goodburn said on Twitter, "Removal of hedgerows on Warkton Lane is contra to law as birds are nesting. Kettering Borough Council know it but don't give a damn."

The removal of the hedgerow was reported to Natural England, an organisation aimed at protecting England's landscape, with them looking into the incident further.

According to the Hedgerow Regulations 1997, it is against the law to remove

any hedgerow without permission from the local planning authority - which suggests the Council didn't properly conduct their research before approving the plans. 

By Stephen Matthews

Young girl set to raise a large amount of money for Cancer

Miss Kibble's image on her JustGiving page

A young girl from Kettering is set to shave her hair off for charity and donate the hair to a good cause. 

Georgina Kibble, 17, from Kettering will be shaving her head for Cancer Research UK on July 18th.

Miss Kibble, who attends Southfields School for Girls, will be shaving her hair during school-time, asking staff and students to come along and watch for a 'small donation'.

Not only will she be donating money, her hair will be donated to the Little Princess Trust, who create wigs for children that have lost their hair due to chemotherapy.

She added, "I have chosen to donate the hair to the Little Princess Trust as I think it is truly amazing the work that they do, and not many people know about what they do."

Miss Kibble's best friends mother had recently been diagnosed with cancer, but a few weeks ago was given the all-clear.

However, she said "This is not the same for other patients, that is why on July 18th I will be shaving my hair with all the sponsorship money going to Cancer Research UK."

To sponsor Miss Kibble, visit her JustGiving page, http://www.justgiving.com/Georgina-Kibble or text 'GMMK90 £3' to 70070 to donate £3.

By Stephen Matthews

Are you having a Giraffe? No, says Woburn Safari Park.

Woburn Safari Park is set to take part in the first ever World Giraffe Day.

The Giraffes on show at Woburn Safari Park

21st June is set to be one of the park’s busiest days ever, as Woburn Safari Park is all set to participate in the first ever World Giraffe Day.

A statement on their website reads, “It’s the longest day of the year – the perfect date to celebrate the longest (tallest) species living at the safari park!”

The whole day is being organised by a passionate team of Giraffe keepers who are dedicating their own time into making it successful.

They are hoping to raise more money for the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) this year than they managed for the Save The Rhino campaign last year, in which they raised over £8,000.

All the money raised on the day and in the weeks running up to the event, will be donated to the GCF.

The GCF plays a pivotal role in securing a future for all Giraffe populations, and conducts vast amounts of research into how to protect the animal further.

Chris Smart
Head of Reserves
Woburn Safari Park

Woburn Safari Park is hugely successful in breeding the Rothschild Giraffe, with 13 out of their 16 giraffes being born at the park – and 3 of them are currently pregnant.

With there being less than 650 left in the wild; Woburn is doing all it can to protect and help the species which is classified as ‘endangered’.

Chris Smart, Head of Reserves at the park said, “It’s an organisation and a cause that is very close to our hearts”.

31 year old Mr Smart added, “The GCF need support, they are a relatively small organisation that rely heavily on public funding and public support, so that’s why we’re getting behind them”.

It’s a common misconception that Giraffes aren’t threatened in the wild, but populations are actually estimated at only around 80,000, with a spokesperson from Woburn saying it is ‘critical’ for them to act now.

Mr Smart, who has worked at Woburn for 11 years and actually lives on site, said “We know that giraffe populations in the wild are decreasing and they are an animal that does need support and help, and that’s why the Woburn Reserves team have decided this year that we would support the GCF”.

He added “People tend to support certain animals, people always support elephants, people like bears, they like tigers,but giraffes are sometimes overlooked”.

Local businesses and people have been busy donating prizes for one of the raffles the park will be holding, one of many events that will be held over the weekend.

There will be lots of things to do on World Giraffe Day, including a talk from the Giraffe keepers, face-painting and a meet and greet with the Giraffes.

A bright yellow wristband, available for £2 will be sold in the weeks leading up to the event.

By Stephen Matthews

Reaction to Dean Thomas' departure

Departing manager Dean Thomas

After the shocking news of manager Dean Thomas leaving Kettering Town Football Club, the fans are still positive for the upcoming season.

The news came as a surprise to those within the club also, with the official announcement on the club's Twitter page being the first time some players had found out.

Even the kitman, Aaron Lewer, had no idea that Thomas was going to be leaving after a season filled with many positives. 

Mr Lewer said, "I'm shocked that he's left and [I] didn't see this one coming, there wasn't any talk of him leaving within the club or the team."

Lifelong fan Kaine Clinton, 19, was very optimistic with what he thinks the Poppies target should be for next season, saying, ""winning the league should still be the only perspective next year, nothing else."

Club chairman Ritchie Jeune issued a statement shortly after Thomas' departure, reflecting on why the manager decided to pack his bags.

'An increased workload' was cited by Jeune as the reason as to why Thomas was off, it's unsure if there was a falling out between them both over the play-off final defeat to Slough. 

Jeune was however very thankful for Thomas' work, with him saying on Twitter, "Thanks to Dean Thomas for the foundations he has put in place at #ktfc"

In other news, the Poppies also retained the services of James Clifton for the upcoming campaign. 

By Stephen Matthews

UKIP dominate local area in European elections

A political shapeshift has taken place in the East Midlands during the European Election results, with UKIP running out as winners.

A complete shift in political momentum sees, Kettering and Wellingborough and Northampton becoming UKIP strongholds. 

UKIP also finished second in Corby, behind Labour, with UKIP and the Conservatives sharing 2 seats each out of the 5 available in the East Midlands.

Labour did at least manage to keep one seat in this region.

The East Midlands MEP seats were awarded to, Roger Helmer (UKIP), Margot Parker (UKIP), Andrew Lewer (Conservatives) Emma McClarkin (Conservatives), Glennys Willmot (Labour)

UKIP have seen a massive gain since receiving only 18% of the vote in 2009 to coming top in Kettering in this years election.

Votes were announced at 10pm and UKIP have made Kettering one of their fortresses with a total of 38% of the vote.

Opinions still vary from one Kettering voter to another on UKIP's rise in the region. 

Kettering resident Daniel Sawford, 19, believes UKIP can succeed if they give the people 'what they want'.

Another resident said, "I agreed with some of UKIP's policies but didn't think coming out [of] Europe is sensible and some of their policies are too extreme."

Labour did however make a gain in the Kettering results, with them gaining 5% of the votes on last time.

Conservatives have dropped to second in the Kettering area, despite only a 3% decrease in votes.

The 2014 results for Kettering in percentile format are as follows, with their 2009 comparison in brackets:
UKIP 38% (18%)

Tories 32% (35%)

Labour 20% (15%)

Lib Dem 4% (10%)

Thomas W. McCartin

Thomas Leaves Poppies

Kettering Town manager Dean Thomas has left the club.

In a brief statement on the Poppies website, it was announced that Thomas, 52, "reached a mutual agreement to step down".

The move will come as a surprise as Thomas guided his charges to the brink of promotion, losing 3-2 to Slough Town in the play off final, in a heart breaking conclusion to the season.

Thomas Baillie and Scott Machin have been named as joint managers for the time being, although the club have indicated that the board are exploring their options of another permanent manager.

Steve Kinniburgh will remain as club captain.

By Tom Hornbuckle

Saints win the Amlin Challenge Cup

Image from Saint's Twitter page.

Northampton Saints have won the Amlin Challenge Cup, defeating Bath 30-16 in a closely fought contest. 

With the Aviva Premiership Final against Saracens looming, Saints will go to Twickenham next Saturday with great confidence. 

Held at the Cardiff Arms Park in front of 12,483 fans, it was to be the first ever Rugby final played on an artificial pitch.

Saints faced heavy pressure from the opponents right from the off, with a successful George Ford penalty in the opening minutes. 

A tense game throughout, but it was Bath who went into the dressing room at half-time in a healthier position at 13:6. 

It took until the 61st minute for the Saints to take their first lead in the game, coming off of one of Stephen Myler's penalties.

The momentum was then in place to carry the Saints to their first silverware of the season, and deservedly so.

Myler proved to be the difference between the two sides, with him managing to score all 6 of his penalty's, whilst his counter-part Ford managed 3/5 and 1 conversion. 

Saracens won't be feeling confident if the Saints that performed in the second half turn up at Twickenham next Saturday.

Line Ups:

Bath: Abendanon; Rokoduguni, Joseph, Devoto, Watson; Ford, Young; James, Dunn, Wilson, Hooper (c), Attwood, Fearns, Louw, Houston

Saints: Foden; K Pisi, G Pisi, Burrell, North; Myler, Dickson; Corbs, Haywood, Mercey, Manoa, Lawes, Clark, Wood (c), Dickinson

By Stephen Matthews

P Money visits Kettering

Last Friday saw notorious grime MC P Money visit Kettering to perform in an event alongside some local artists. 

P Money (left), Rhys Alford/Intense (middle)

The event, organised by local promoter Rhys Alford, 17, managed to cram 250 people into The Loft due to the big name artist performing.

The young promoter even found time to show off his own DJ'ing skills at the event under his stage name'Intense'. 

Mr Alford said, "To be able to bring such big acts down to our little town shows what real support is out there."

He also made it clear that there are plans laid out in order to bring P Money back to Kettering in the near future saying, "P [Money] tweeted me saying he wants to come back after summer so we'll definitely sort something out!"

But they aren't the only plans Mr Alford has, he plans to bring other big name artists to the town in the summer, however he was reluctant to spill any names, making sure that it stays a complete surprise for everyone.

By Stephen Matthews

Bank Holiday Weekend weather update

Although the past few days seemed to suggest the beginning of a heat filled summer hitting highs of 23°C, the bank holiday weekend is out to prove otherwise. If you're a family person you may want to arrange a board game night before thinking of heading to Wicksteed Park.

Tomorrow morning will be at around 9°C with overcast but will begin to heat up throughout the day with a predicted 19°C in the late afternoon. Rain is however expected throughout the day.

Sunday will be more consistent with temperatures around 19°C for the majority of the afternoon but expect rainfall once again for a fair portion of the day.

Bank holiday Monday has given it's best showing possible temperatures of 20°C but this is once again met with more rainfall giving a classically miserable bank holiday weekend.

So I advise that if you're outdoors, you may want to save that new bikini or pair of swim shorts for June.

By Tom McCartin

Local magician set to stun audience at The Masque Theatre

The flyer for his new show,
'Something Tricky'

Local magician Jamie Docherty is set to shock the people of Kettering once again, with the announcement of his new show.

Head along to The Masque Theatre on Friday 27th June if you want to witness some of the best illusions around.

The show, named 'Something Tricky' features Mr Docherty, 19 performing alongside fellow local magician and friend Matthew Garrett, 38. 

TV's very own Puzzle Paul has also been confirmed to host the show, meaning there very may well be a comedy aspect to the show...

Be under no illusion, this is not your run of the mill magic show, a lot of time and effort has been put in to ensure all goes smoothly.

Mr Docherty said, "I'm really looking forward to it... You can't get across to people how much practice has gone into it."

He went on to say, "there's a few surprises, the show itself is a surprise."

Alongside the various surprises, the magician made it clear that 'lots of big illusions' will be performed during the show, and to expect a little bit of fire..

Buy your tickets here.

By Stephen Matthews

Mum from Corby raises £200 for Macmillan

A quick-thinking mum from Corby managed to raise over £200 last weekend for Macmillan Cancer Support.

The money raised on the night.

Dawn Hinton, 44, decided to host a party welcome to close friends and family - with a twist.

In order to raise money, the idea of the party was to bring your own drink, and chip in roughly what you would have spent on the night out to the charity which is 'very close to her heart'.

Mrs Hinton said, "I will continue to do events for cancer research, maybe another skydive!"

This isn't the first time Mrs Hinton has helped to raise a large amount of money towards a cancer charity.

A couple of years ago she and 19 other women completed a skydive at Hinton Airfield which raised over £1,000 for Cancer Research UK.

Partygoers described it as a 'complete success', with her son Kaine Clinton, 19, going as far as calling his mother a 'gem' for the amount of money she has managed to raise for research into cancer. 

He added, "I'm really proud of my mum for all the hard work she puts in to raise money for cancer." 

By Stephen Matthews