NEWS FROM EREWASH

In the interests of research I've now carried out a mystery shopper visit to the Nutbrook Coffee Shop at Lodge Farm Cottage, and can report that it is well worth calling in. It receives high scores for design, setting, location, service and above all for the quality of food and drink on offer. The cottage and neighbouring Lodge Farm were built by the Miller Mundy family of Shipley Hall. The properties came into the ownership of Derbyshire County Council and were sold on a few years ago. Lodge Farm now belongs to the charity Remar UK. 

Bill Tomson, the leader of the Bennerley Viaduct project is applying for a Heritage Lottery Fund small grant to continue the process he has begun of getting local people and organisations involved in the restoration of the viaduct and its conversion into a cycling and walking route. The grant would contribute to the appointment of a Community Engagement Officer, an exhibition at the Erewash Museum, information leaflets, guided walks, activities for schools and a programme of volunteer workdays. He is very keen to hear stories and memories from local people and to see photographs and documents related to the viaduct and other local heritage such as mining and other industries, canals and railways. 

A high level of local involvement will be a key factor in the success of the main bid for the project itself which will be made next year. A major boost comes from UK Coal, which will provide a financial contribution as one of the conditions for being granted planning permission to carry out open cast mining at Cossall. 

If you would like to be involved in the Viaduct Project you can join the growing number of people setting up a Friends of Bennerley Viaduct group. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday 12 August at 7pm in the offices above Shipley Blinds, 22 Lower Stanton Road, Ilkeston DE7 4LN. 
The entrance is at the rear of Shipley Blinds. Parking available behind the premises, accessed via Appleby Close. Anyone willing to get their hands dirty should turn up at the Bridge Inn, Cotmanhay DE7 8RD, at 10am on Saturday 8 August to join a work party. The main task will be clearing ballast and sediment on the viaduct to improve drainage. You'll need to come with suitable clothing and footwear and a packed lunch. More information about the Friends group and the workday from Bill on 077960 43687. A Facebook page and website are now under construction. Watch this space for further news. 

Ian Keeling has moved on to take up a post in sustainable transport at the Nottingham Hospitals and has been replaced as Volunteer Coordinator by Dan Robertson who can be contacted on 01158 532948.

Jeff