Friday Edition - Trio of Arrests, Biosphere Reserve plans, All Change at McArthurGlen, New Police Station & More

Happy Friday readers, the weekend is in sight and a very fast week it has been. I hope you have something special to look forward to over the weekend but until then .... grab a coffee and have a read of today's newsletter covering all things Bassetlaw and surrounding areas, and of course - your daily puzzle fix.

You will also see that throughout June we are running a fabulous competition to win tickets to 'Beyond Van Gogh' or 'Beyond Monet' for the opening week of the exhibition at Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham. This competition can only be won by one of our amazing newsletter subscribers.

Todays thought for the day ... ""Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise." — Victor Hugo

Enjoy the read and have a great weekend wherever you are reading this.

Justin Doddy, Editor

P.S. Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter here if you haven't already and remember to send us your pictures and stories from around Bassetlaw, we may feature them in our newsletter.

Trio of arrests after quick response to Worksop burglary

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Three men were quickly arrested by police responding to reports of a Worksop restaurant burglary.

Officers were called to the address in Carlton Road around 1.40am on Thursday (4 June).

After a front window was smashed to gain entry, three suspects made off with bags full of cleaning products.

With assistance from Bassetlaw District Council’s CCTV operatives, local officers headed to the surrounding area immediately.

By 1.53am, a trio of suspects were located and then detained on Portland Street.

Three men – aged 31, 38 and 39 – were arrested on suspicion of burglary.

Following a subsequent search, suspected Class A drugs and the Class B drug mamba were found to be in the 39-year-old's possession.

He was further arrested on suspicion of possession of Class A and Class B drugs.

Inspector Martin Cohen, of Nottinghamshire Police, said:

“We are committed to delivering a fast response to burglary reports as we understand how upsetting such incidents can be for victims – both people and businesses.

“Tackling burglary is a key priority for the Worksop area and we will continue to take these kind of reports extremely seriously.”

Frasers Group Takes Control of East Midlands Designer Outlet in Major Expansion of UK Retail Portfolio

Retail giant Frasers Group has strengthened its growing presence in the UK retail property market after acquiring East Midlands Designer Outlet from McArthurGlen, marking another significant investment in the East Midlands and further cementing the company's position as a dominant force in the UK's outlet shopping sector.

In a brief statement, McArthurGlen said:

“We wanted to share an update with our community.

“As of 1 June 2026, McArthurGlen’s management of the centre will come to an end.

“We’re proud to have managed East Midlands Designer Outlet for nearly three decades and would like to thank our guests, brand partners and local community for being part of that journey.”

The sale marks the end of McArthurGlen's ownership of East Midlands Designer Outlet after almost 30 years. McArthurGlen pioneered the designer outlet concept in the UK and has operated some of Europe's most successful outlet shopping destinations. The company opened the East Midlands centre in 1998 and helped establish it as one of the country's leading outlet retail locations.

The acquisition forms part of a wider deal that also saw Frasers Group purchase York Designer Outlet, with the two destinations attracting a combined annual footfall of almost 7.8 million visitors. The move means Frasers now owns more than one-fifth of the UK's outlet retail market, highlighting the company's ambitions to expand its influence across both retail and commercial property sectors.

Located at South Normanton, just off Junction 28 of the M1 motorway, East Midlands Designer Outlet has long been one of the region's premier shopping destinations. Opened in 1998 and operated by McArthurGlen for nearly three decades, the centre attracts approximately 3.5 million visitors annually and is home to more than 65 leading fashion, lifestyle and homeware brands.

Its strategic location makes it a key retail destination for shoppers from Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, South Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and beyond, helping to drive tourism and economic activity throughout the region.

The outlet features a mix of internationally recognised brands including Adidas, Nike, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, BOSS, Skechers, Barbour and Le Creuset, alongside restaurants, cafés and leisure facilities.

Although ownership has changed, shoppers are unlikely to see any immediate disruption, with existing retailers continuing to trade as normal while Frasers Group assesses future opportunities for the site.

Council backs Biosphere Reserve plans

Bassetlaw District Council has formally backed plans to create a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve covering the Humberhead Levels in the northern part of Bassetlaw.

It would be the first in the north of England and the first non-coastal location in the UK.

UNESCO Biosphere reserves are internationally recognised as learning places for sustainability and aim to find local ways to help manage climate change and other global challenges.

The proposed Biosphere would focus on the Humberhead Levels, which support flood management, biodiversity recovery and carbon storage. It is home to some of the most important natural habitats in the country, including peatlands, which need protecting and improving.

Cllr Steve Scotthorne, Cabinet Member for Identity, Planning and Place said:

“Moving towards becoming the first designated UNESCO Biosphere in the north of England is an important step in our plans for protecting and enhancing our natural environment.

“The Humberhead Levels is a unique landscape shaped by years of farming, drainage and community action. A Biosphere is another way the Council can look to deliver positive change for residents and businesses while protecting and improving our unique natural environment and helping to manage climate change.

“The proposed Biosphere will not bring any new restrictions but will create many opportunities for Bassetlaw.”

It could help coordinate peatland restoration and flood management, support farmers and landowners’ access funding and improve nature recovery across the area, while strengthening the Humberhead Levels distinctive identity.

We will continue to develop our partnerships including with neighbouring councils, wildlife trusts, Natural England to ensure that a biosphere can work for everyone.

A formal nomination for reserve status is expected to take place in September 2026.

Our three interesting facts for today ....

The letters 'K', 'W' and 'Y' were officially added to the Portuguese alphabet in 2009

In the last 300 years the average size of a wine glass has increased almost sevenfold

1 in 5 Britons cannot name a single author of literature

Win tickets to see Beyond Van Gogh or Beyond Monet

Win a pair of tickets or a family ticket (5 tickets) for Beyond Van Gogh or Beyond Monet for the opening week of the exhibition at Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham.

To be in the draw all you need to do is sign up to our 100% Free daily digital newsletter. Current subscribers will be entered automatically.

Full details can be found at: https://bassetlaw-today.ghost.io/competition-2/ .

High street police station plans move step closer

*Pictured (L-R) Jo White, Member of Parliament for Bassetlaw, Gary Godden, Police and Crime Commissioner for Nottinghamshire and Cllr Julie Leigh, Leader of Bassetlaw District Council.*

Plans for a new Police Station on Worksop’s high street could soon be a reality.

It follows long-running discussions between Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Gary Godden, Nottinghamshire Police and Bassetlaw District Council to secure a front counter service in the heart of the community and enhance the town's visible policing presence.

Bassetlaw District Council’s Cabinet agreed in principle this week to transfer ownership of the town centre property at 73 Bridge Street to the PCC, who is responsible for Nottinghamshire Police's estate.

The decision will now be considered by the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee as part of a confidential report on Tuesday 16 June.

This was welcomed by the Leader of Bassetlaw District Council, Cllr Julie Leigh, who said:

“We have been working with the Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner as well as Bassetlaw-based Officers for some months now to enable the Police to pursue a new base that enhances the way they provide policing in our district and town.

“Subject to the decision of our Overview and Scrutiny Committee, I’m pleased that further discussions will be able to take place so that our shared ambition of enhanced policing can be realised while also contributing to wider ambitions for our town centre and improving safety.”

Should the decision be endorsed, Nottinghamshire Police will move from their current base in Queen’s Buildings and have full responsibility for the facilities that are provided at the new station.

Gary Godden, Police and Crime Commissioner for Nottinghamshire, said:

“I'm delighted that we have moved a step closer to securing a dedicated police station in such a prominent town centre location in Worksop.

"Following continued engagement with the community since I came into the role, I have had a long-held ambition to enhance the police's presence and accessibility in the Bassetlaw district, and this marks a major step toward making this a reality.

"I'd like to thank Bassetlaw MP Jo White and Bassetlaw District Council for working closely with me on this and helping me ensure we meet the needs of local people so we can strengthen trust, confidence and partnership working with the community."

This proposal is designed to enhance the Police provision across Bassetlaw and add to the facilities that are already in place in Harworth and Bircotes and Retford.

Jo White, Member of Parliament for Bassetlaw, said:

“I have been fighting for a more visible police presence in Worksop town centre because our town centres must be safe for shoppers, visitors and local businesses.

“I am delighted that the Police and Crime Commissioner has listened and is working with Bassetlaw District Council to open a new police station on Bridge Street. This is a welcome addition to the police presence in Bassetlaw.”

Number 73 Bridge Street is currently used as a base for the Council’s Market provision in addition to public toilets. Alternative locations to accommodate these facilities are also being explored alongside this report.

Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service Launch Fire Cadets

Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service (NFRS) is calling on young people from across the county to apply for its upcoming Fire Cadet programme, offering a valuable opportunity to gain new skills, build confidence and experience life within the fire and rescue service.

The programme is set to begin in September 2026 and will be based at Carlton Fire Station, with weekly sessions taking place on Wednesday evenings. Each session will last two hours, starting and finishing between 6pm and 9pm.

Those selected will initially take part in a 10-week induction programme designed to introduce cadets to the fundamentals of the fire and rescue service, while developing teamwork, discipline and resilience. Following this induction, cadets who demonstrate commitment and maintain regular attendance will progress onto a 52-week programme, where they will officially become NFRS Fire Cadets. At this stage, participants will be issued a uniform and begin working towards a Level 1 qualification.

Applications for the Fire Cadet programme are now open. Please note that applications close on Wednesday 17 June 2026.

The application timeline is as follows:

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to take part in a 'look at life' event on Wednesday 29 July 2026
Interviews will take place between 5 and 12 August 2026
Successful applicants will receive acceptance letters mid-August
The programme will launch in September 2026

As part of the programme, successful cadets will have the opportunity to get involved with community events, including the Remembrance Parade in November, helping them to engage with and give back to their local communities.

The Fire Cadets programme offers a unique and rewarding experience for young people who are interested in learning new skills, making friends and gaining insight into the emergency services, all while contributing positively to their communities.

If you have any questions, please contact firecadets@notts-fire.gov.uk

Fire Service Launches Road Safety Campaign Ahead Of World Cup Tournament

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service has launched a new road safety campaign ahead of the 2026 Men’s World Cup tournament, bringing together multiple partners from across the county to help everyone enjoy the tournament safely.

Running throughout June and July, the campaign promotes ways to stay safe, with a particular focus on road safety and the ‘fatal five’ risks.

Major sporting events like the world cup creates a great sense of community - people travel, meet friends, and come together to celebrate. However, they can also lead to increased demand on emergency services.

The campaign was launched on Monday 1 June at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground with an event for fire service staff and involved partners to get together and promote the campaign.

Community Engagement & Partnerships Manager at Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, Natasha Neale, highlighted the importance of striking the right balance between enjoyment and safety.

She said:

We want people to fully embrace the atmosphere that comes with the World Cup, but not at the expense of safety — especially on our roads.

“The majority of road traffic collisions are preventable and are linked to the Fatal Five behaviours, which continue to cause serious injuries and loss of life both in Nottinghamshire and the rest of the UK.

“Our priority is to keep our communities safe across the county. By working with football clubs and licensed venues, the Service is sharing clear, timely advice to help people make informed decisions, with a hope to reduce incidents which happen on our roads.”

Since 2020, Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) has attended 3,467 road traffic collisions, with 2025 recording the highest number of incidents.

NFRS Group Manager, Jonathan Holford, said these figures reinforce the need to focus on prevention, particularly during busy periods like major sporting events. However, he also explained that working closely with licensed venues helps them prepare for an increase in visitors, ensuring they can offer safe, well-managed environments for people enjoying the matches.

He said:

By working with venues across the county, we’ve also been able to provide clear and visible safety messaging — including reminders about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol — helping people make safer choices at the right time.

“We would like to thank all of the venues we have visited so far ahead of the world cup, for their cooperation – this all adds to keeping our communities of Nottinghamshire safe.”

He stressed that many of these incidents could be avoided, with the campaign encouraging people to plan ahead — whether that’s arranging a safe way home or being more aware of the risks when travelling.

Partnership working is central to the campaign, with local football clubs and businesses helping to bring the messaging to life in a way that feels relevant and engaging.

Nottingham Forest welcomed the initiative and offered an amazing opportunity to host our launch event at their club, with Graham Murray, Nottingham Forest’s Head of Safety and Security, saying:

“Football brings families, friends, colleagues, and neighbours together and the World Cup is always a special time for everybody who loves the game.

“In the midst of this excitement, we must also encourage everybody to behave responsibly and make the safest possible choices for themselves and those around them. We were pleased to welcome Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service to the City Ground to launch this important campaign and we are fully supportive of their efforts to keep our communities safe.”

Notts County, who have just finished celebrating their league promotion, also emphasised the value of collaboration, with a spokesperson, adding:

“Partnering with Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service on this road safety campaign ahead of the World Cup is something we're proud to be involved in. Community safety is extremely important to us, and working together to bring this campaign to life has been a great example of how partnerships can create a positive impact.

“The involvement of the players has been particularly important, as they are people that many fans and young people look up to. By sharing this message through them, we hope to raise awareness of road safety and help encourage safer choices across our communities."

Mansfield Town’s Academy players took part in the campaign as they approach the age where driving becomes a reality—and with it, important responsibilities. A spokesperson said:

“Mansfield Town F.C., alongside our Academy and Community Trust, are proud to have partnered on this important initiative with our young players. As they approach driving age, it is vital that they are equipped with a clear understanding of the real-world consequences of unsafe decision-making on the road, including the serious risks associated with drink-driving.

“We are committed to supporting the development of our academy players not only as athletes, but as responsible young people who can make a positive contribution to society.”

We also worked closely with Greene King, the country’s leading pub retailer and brewer, to ensure our key messages got far and wide. Michael Todd, Risk Manager at Greene King, said:

“Major sporting occasions bring communities together, with pubs playing an important role in creating a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for fans.

“We’ve supported Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service ahead of this summer’s football tournament to help ensure local venues are prepared for the potential higher footfall that can come with busy matchdays. By supporting this campaign and sharing important safety messaging, we hope everyone can enjoy the summer of sport responsibly and safely.”

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service would like to thank everyone for getting involved with this campaign – hopefully together, throughout the tournament, people will become safer on the roads of Nottinghamshire thanks to this partnership. You can see more about the campaign – including videos of all football clubs getting involved with a drink drive initiative – across our social media channels.

For more information on road safety, visit: www.notts-fire.gov.uk/community/outdoor-safety/road-safety/.

On This Weekend: The 5th Harworth & Bircotes Pride

Parade leaving Snipe Park, Shrewsbury Road at 11.30am

Followed by: LIVE ACTS, STALLS, FOOD VENDORS, BAR AREA, CHILDRENS AREA and SUPPORT SERVICES

Can you figure out today's puzzle?

First figure out the nine letter solution and then find as many words as you can in today's panagram that contain the letter H.

Our last panagram was SORCERESS. Read our next newsletter for the solution to today's puzzle.

Thanks so much for reading our local newsletter and for supporting us. We’re committed to providing Bassetlaw with the quality local news service it deserves, but sustaining this work may come with some challenges. Our team is currently discussing how to make Bassetlaw Today financially viable in the long term, and one option we’re considering is introducing a subscription model to help cover our costs.

We want to be open with you about these conversations so you’re aware that a fee may need to be introduced in the future. If that happens, we hope you’ll continue to stand with us and support the publication.

Have a great day and I look forward to seeing you read our next newsletter.

Justin Doddy, Editor