Notts Going On: Dazzling lights and lively spirits
Notts Going On: Dazzling lights and lively spirits
Our royally good goalkeeper, a 1700s family home, and a bat-tastic walk...
Hello there and welcome to Notts Going On — your weekly digest of everything you need to know about the area for the week ahead.
There’s a whole lot of brilliant info ahead — almost as wonderful as the amazing lights that carried over the sky on Friday.
As ever, if there’s anything you’d like to feature or anything you’d like to see, please do email me, Eve Smallman, at editor@thenottsedit.com. And, if you’re enjoying Notts Going On, you can fuel me with much-needed caffeine.
Notts Going On
By Eve Smallman
News 🗞️
💸 Good news: The new East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward has officially ruled against bringing in additional council tax during her first four-year term in office. A number of councils do have this under their regional mayors, such as Manchester, but luckily we'll be keeping our pennies. She told the BBC: "What we need to do in this term is to build the organisation, use the money and the powers that we've been given, and get more devolution if we can." bbcnews.co.uk
🏃♀️ Running around: Over 5,000 people have already signed up to do the Robin Hood Half Marathon. Everyone seems to be a runner these days, don't they? The race is on September 29 and prices start at £39pp for entry. You can choose from a range of charities to run for, but I’m running (eek!) for Emmanuel House. Organisers are encouraging people to sign up quickly if they want to race, as adjustments might be made to participation limits. robinhoodhalfmarathon.co.uk
🏅 Golden gloves: Nottingham's own Mary Earps received her MBE on Wednesday at Windsor Castle for services to football. The goalkeeper played a huge part in the England’s Euros success in 2022 and in the World Cup in 2023. Earps also won BBC Sports Personality of the Year last year. And, on top of all this, she helped Manchester United secure their first ever FA Cup win on Sunday. She discovered her passion for the sport while playing for the West Bridgford Colts. bbcnews.co.uk
⚽ Hanging on: Nottingham Forest have nearly reached safety in the Premier League, despite their 3-2 defeat against Chelsea on Saturday. While not mathematically confirmed, The Reds hold a three-point lead over Luton with a significantly better goal difference. On Wednesday it was announced their appeal against their four-point deduction failed, but they didn't receive any additional penalties. They’re also still considering a move to Toton, with talks with the Council reportedly at a standstill.
Hot Property 🏡
This beautiful home in Gedling has origins dating back to the 1720s and mixes together period features and a contemporary feel seamlessly. The open-plan diner and lounge area, along with a kitchen and elegant island, are perfect for entertaining and relaxing. From here, the bi-fold doors open up to a south-facing garden with plenty of outdoor space. Upstairs there are six bedrooms, including a master with a Juliet-style balcony. It’s been listed by HomeMove Estate Agents and the guide price is £625k. rightmove.co.uk
What’s On 🗓️
WRAP Live! x Bad Betty 🎤
When: May 14
Where: University Hall, Nottingham
How much: Free
NTU Art’s final Wrap Cafe of the year will showcase the brilliant work they’ve been putting together with independent publishers Bad Betty Press. Twelve students will perform works from their collaborations with talented mentors such as award-winning writer and performer Molly Naylor, Kandace Siobhan Walker, poet Christopher Lanyon, and editor at Bad Betty Press Jake Wild-Hall. Entry is free but must be booked in advance.
Do if: You like the idea of supporting talented up-and-coming artists.
Nottingham Bad Movie Night 🎬
When: May 16
Where: Saltbox, Nottingham
How much: £19.80pp
Sure, you could go watch a great movie. But you know what’s even better than that? A bad movie, like the iconic The Room. Actor Greg Sestero will be there providing live commentary throughout, so you can literally say, “Oh hi, Mark” to the man himself. We’re not kidding. He authored The Disaster Artist, which is based on his experience filming with the infamous Tommy Wiseau. There will also be play along with the film games, quiz questions throughout, and free sweets to nibble on.
Do if: You can hear the phrase, “You’re tearing me apart, Lisa!”
Spirit of Wartime Sherwood 🌳
When: May 18-19
Where: Thoresby Park, Newark
How much: Free, parking £3 all day
You can transport yourself back to a completely different time by heading along to this weekend filled with WW2 history and activities. Experience life in the military camps, see authentic vehicles that would have graced the roads at the time, and shop quirky wares at the Vintage Village. There will also be talks and exhibitions for history lovers, too.
Do if: You’re looking to entertain the whole family this weekend.
GIRLBAND! 🎶
When: May 18
Where: Rescue Rooms, Nottingham
How much: £12.10pp
Nottingham’s alternative trio GIRLBAND! are taking their first headline tour to Rescue Rooms. Their joyful, dynamic sound is totally toe-tapping and is influenced by the 50s to the 90s. We recommend listening to their BBC Introducing performance on YouTube for a taste of what they’re like. They’ll be supported by The Chase, another local act.
Do if: You want to let your hair down to some great tunes on Saturday night.
Brilliant Bats Walk and Talk 🌳
When: May 18
Where: Sherwood Forest, Edwinstowe
How much: £15pp
Find out about the wonderful creatures who swoop in the sky and hide in caves at this event. First, you’ll learn interesting bat facts, before embarking on a walk throughout Sherwood Forest where you might spot some yourself. The Nottinghamshire Bat Group will talk you through the whole evening, so you’re sure to learn plenty of fascinating facts from knowledgeable individuals. Just be sure to bring a torch and spritz on insect repellent, as this is an evening event.
Do if: You love learning about and being in nature.
It’s World Cocktail Day 🍹
And finally 📸
Did you catch the gorgeous northern lights that cascaded across the sky on Friday night? We love these pictures captured by Nigel King which show the colours of this once in a lifetime event beautifully.
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