'The Weekly Roundup' - All the news from around Bassetlaw over the last week.
Well that's the end of another busy week of news from around Bassetlaw and the surrounding area.
Why not grab a coffee, take ten and catch up on shortened highlights from this week's Bassetlaw Today newsletters and of course, your daily puzzle fix.
Covering all things Bassetlaw the full articles can be accessed in our daily newsletters 100% FREE on https://bassetlaw-today.ghost.io/ .
Todays thought for the day ... "You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending." — C.S. Lewis
I hope you enjoy the read, please email us if you have a story for us and have a great weekend wherever you are.
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 from around Bassetlaw, we may feature it on our newsletter.
Priory Centre set for exciting new phase
The demolition phase of the Priory Centre regeneration project is now complete, clearing the way for the construction stage to begin on time.
The main building that formed part of the original Netherholme Centre has been safely removed, with preparation work for the next phase of construction having already begun.
Visitors to Worksop Town Centre will be able to see progress on site over the coming months as a new building is constructed to host exciting facilities, including a climbing wall, indoor adventure play area, a bowling alley and more.
Operation Star results in Quad Bike Seizure
Officers from the East Bassetlaw Beat Team were out on Tuesday May 19 as part of Operation Star, tackling antisocial vehicle use in the area.
During the patrols, the police successfully seized an illegal quad bike that was being ridden causing damage to local woodland.
If you see antisocial behaviour like this in your area, please continue to report it to the police. Call 101 or report online.
Archaeological works to begin at Lowdham roundabout as part of the A614/A6097 scheme
Looking back to Roman times will be the focus of the A614/A6097 scheme over the coming weeks as targeted archaeology works get underway at Lowdham roundabout.
Three weeks of archaeological works will look to identify and record potential historic remains including those associated with an undated former lynchet that is recorded on Nottinghamshire County Council Historic Environment Record in farmland at the junction of Nottingham Road and the A6097 Epperstone Bypass.
Some 960 square metres will be investigated as part of the works at Lowdham, which begin on 22 May with a ground penetrating radar survey, to help preserve archaeological data and build an accurate record of history for future research projects.
Archaeologists will then dig trial trenches as part of their work before moving on to a second phase of detailed excavation where land will be stripped, mapped and recorded.
Worksop Cemetery Vandalised
Bassetlaw District Council announced on Social Media that Hannah Park Cemetery has suffered some extreme vandalism.
Vandals broke into the cemetery Between the hours of 8pm on Thursday. May 20 and 7am on Friday, May 21 and pushed over six memorial stones, damaged and broke ornaments and floral displays, as well as ripping roof tiles from the toilet block.
The Council advised that headstones are now back in position and have been temporarily secured. They are also in the process of reaching out to the relatives who care for the graves that have been vandalised.
Planned closure at Mansfield Recycling Centre for essential works
Mansfield Recycling Centre will be closed for the first week of June.
From Monday June 1 to Sunday June 7, Mansfield Recycling Centre will be closed to carry out essential repair work to the footpath and access road. The site will reopen and operate as normal from June 8.
Nottinghamshire County Council and Veolia are asking residents to use an alternative site during this time such as Warsop, Bilsthorpe or Hucknall Recycling Centre, all of which will be operating as normal.
Police issue statement as human skeletal remains found next to A617 Rainworth Bypass
Police continue to investigate after suspected human skeletal remains were found in a wooded area next to the A617 Rainworth Bypass.
Detailed inquiries remain ongoing to establish the circumstances after the remains were discovered by members of the public around 2.45pm yesterday (Saturday May 23, 2026).
A police cordon has been set up and is set to remain in place for some time while the investigations continue.
The road currently remains open while inquiries are being carried out at the scene.
Service Issues Reminder On Drone Use At Emergency Incidents
Senior fire officers are urging the public to follow national drone safety rules after seeing a rise in drones being flown near active emergency scenes.
Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service says it has seen an increase in people attending incidents and operating drones in close proximity to emergency responders, prompting a fresh reminder about the Civil Aviation Authority’s Drone Code.
Flying drones close to, or directly over, emergency incidents is strongly discouraged and, in many cases, unlawful. The Drone Code makes clear that unmanned aircraft must not be used near areas where emergency services are working unless specific permission has been granted.
Unauthorised drone activity at incidents can create a significant safety risk and may hinder emergency operations.
Splash Park Update – The Canch, Worksop
Bassetlaw District Council has announced that the Splash Park at The Canch in Worksop will be closed for the next few weeks while essential replacement work is carried out.
Last year, the Splash Park experienced a number of mechanical and water quality issues. Following a full winter audit, several major replacements were identified within the Plant Room.
Unfortunately, delays in sourcing specialist equipment and securing contractors have impacted the timescale for these works.
The replacement project is scheduled to begin on Monday 1st June and will help extend the lifespan of the Splash Park, while also ensuring a more modern facility with enhanced safety standards for everyone to enjoy in the future.
Cheers to Three Years: Notts-based DropWorks Rum Doubles Revenue
Celebrating three years of trading this month (May), British rum distillery DropWorks Rum, based in Welbeck, Nottinghamshire, has reported that it has more than doubled its revenue compared to the same time last year.
Since 2023, DropWorks has focused on disrupting the entire rum category and establishing its high-quality, naturally flavoured British rum alongside long-standing traditional brands. The team continues to challenge customer perceptions around rum, has secured premium listings in major venues and opened the doors of their distillery in the heart of Nottinghamshire to show exactly how their liquid is produced.
The increased revenue is thanks to DropWorks’ branded bottle sales, private label sales and more than 3,000 visitors booking tours at the distillery. Looking ahead, following its successful crowdfunding push in late 2025, DropWorks will continue to seek targeted investment to reach its long-term goal of international expansion.
Winston Churchill to join RAF FLYPAST in Worksop
Worksop Armed Forces Weekend have received confirmation from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Royal Air Force, for a flypast over the Worksop Armed Forces Weekend event at Worksop Rugby Club on Sunday 28th June.
In what promises to be a great event the weekend runs over two days Saturday June 27 and Sunday June 28, 2026 a Winston Churchill lookalike attending the event on Sunday.
A fantastic chance to step back in time, take photos, and enjoy some true wartime spirit as part of the weekend celebrations.
The #RAFFlyPast is guaranteed to be the highlight of the two day event.
One major roadwork listed for Bassetlaw over the next month
By: Laura Monaghan
Nottinghamshire County Council is set to send out its crews to tackle damaged roads across 24 Nottinghamshire locations over the next month (between Tuesday, May 26 and Monday, June 22) including one Bassetlaw location.
With works across various parts of the road network already under way, here is a list of larger-scaled works the authority’s highway team, VIA, is aiming to start between Tuesday, May 26 and Monday, June 22 in Bassetlaw:
The full list for this month (May 26 to June 22):
Ashfield
- A611 Derby Road, Kirkby in Ashfield, resurfacing works estimated to start May 26 and finish June 5 – Shoulder of Mutton Hill to surface change approaching B6020 Diamond Avenue junction.
- A611 Derby Road / B6139 Coxmoor Road junction, Sutton in Ashfield, resurfacing works to the full junction estimated to start May 26 and finish June 5.
- C216 Beardall Street, Hucknall, resurfacing works from B6009 Watnall Road to Portland Road, estimated to start on June 8 and finish on June 19.
- C150 High Pavement, Sutton in Ashfield (across Ashfields / Sutton Central and East), resurfacing works from Prospect Place to, and including, Spring Road roundabout, estimated to start on June 22 and finish on June 26.
Bassetlaw
- B1403 Clayworth Common / Hayton Road, Hayton, surface dressing preparation patching works from Town Street / Wheatley Road, Clayworth to junction B1403 Main Street The Boat Inn / Burntley’s Road, Hayton – estimated to start on June 8 and finish on June 19.
Broxtowe
- Peveril Road, Beeston, resurfacing workings estimated to start May 26 and finish May 29 – From Abbey Road junction to o/s No 86.
- Noel Street, Kimberley, resurfacing works to the whole length of road estimated to start on May 26 and finish May 29.
- Ryecroft Street, Stapleford, resurfacing works estimated to start from May 26 and finish May 31 – from o/s No75 to o/s No87 approx 30m north of Welch Avenue – concrete section.
- Plumptre Way, Eastwood, resurfacing works from Nottingham Road to The Island (both lanes), estimated to start on June 22 and finish on July 3.
Gedling
- Lambley Avenue, Mapperley, resurfacing works to the whole length of road, estimated to start on May 26 and finish on May 31.
- Shelford Road, Gedling (Phase 1), resurfacing from Arnold Lane to Freda Avenue, estimated to start on June 1 and finish on June 12.
- Longue Drive, Calverton, resurfacing works from Georges Lane to Jumelles Drive and from Rowan Close to Jumelles Drive, estimated to start on June 1 and finish on June 5.
- Prospect Road, Carlton, resurfacing from Valley Road to Standhill Road, estimated to start on June 1 and finish on June 12.
Mansfield
- Cox’s Lane, Mansfield Woodhouse, resurfacing works to the whole length of road including Sunnydale roundabout, estimated to start on May 26 and finish on June 5.
- Slant Lane, Mansfield Woodhouse, resurfacing works from Brown Avenue to Shakespeare Avenue, estimated to start on May 26 and finish on June 5.
- A617 Rainworth Bypass (Westbound carriageway, across Mansfield East / Blidworth), resurfacing works from Rufford Colliery Lane junction to A6191 roundabout (Westbound), estimated to start on June 8 and finish on July 3.
- A6191 Chesterfield Road South, Mansfield (across Mansfield West / Mansfield North), surface dressing preparation patching works from A617 Pleasley Hill Way junction to A6009 Rosemary Street junction, estimated to start on June 8 and finish on July 3.
- A6191 Ratcliffe Gate, Mansfield, resurfacing works from St. Peters Way to surface change at Frederick Street (including St. Peters Way junction), estimated to start on June 22 and finish on July 3.
Newark and Sherwood
- C3 Grange Lane, Balderton – continuation of resurfacing work from 2025/26 financial year, estimated to start on June 15 and finish on July 3.
- C83 Main Street, Balderton (across Balderton / Newark East), resurfacing works from surface change at Bridge Court to Church Lane, estimated to start on June 22 and finish on July 3.
Rushcliffe
- Morkinshire Crescent, Cotgrave, resurfacing works to the whole length of road, estimated to start on June 1 and finish on June 5.
- Stonebridge Drive, East Leake, resurfacing from Gotham Road to o/s no 4 approx 15m past Carlton Crescent, estimated to start on June 1 and finish on June 5.
- C26 Costock Road / Leake Road, East Leake (across Ruddington / Keyworth), resurfacing works from Meeting House Close to approx 100m past Brook Furlong Farm entrance, estimated to start on June 8 and finish on June 19.
- Works Lane, Barnstone, resurfacing works to the adopted section, estimated to start on June 15 and finish on June 19.
Worksop man jailed for sex offences against child
A 51‑year‑old man has been jailed for 10 years and 2 months after admitting to sexually assaulting a young girl.
Damning medical and forensic evidence gathered in September of last year enabled officers to secure three charges against Asa Ord, formerly of Worksop.
Ord, now aged 51, originally denied any wrongdoing in his police interview, but he eventually pleaded guilty to three counts of adult sexual activity with a child during an appearance at Nottingham Crown Court on 12 February 2026.
He has also been placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register and given a 20‑year Sexual Harm Prevention Order to restrict his activities after release.
Notts County win promotion to League 1
Notts County beat Salford City 3 - 0 to win promotion to League 1.
Goals by A. Jatta (32'), L. Ness (45') and J. Jones (70') secured victory.
Three pubs in Bassetlaw looking for new landlords this month
Bassetlaw already has a lot of pubs and bars to offer punters, but many are looking for new landlords and landladies
We have listed three pubs across the county that are looking for someone to take over the lease, according to www.findmypub.com, www.starpubs.co.uk and www.greenekingpubs.co.uk.
Royal Oak, Main Street, Retford
Annual Rent £16,875 Estimated Annual Turnover £296,147
See the full listing HERE
Whitehouses, London Road, Retford
Annual Rent £48,000 Estimated Annual Turnover £477,100
See the full listing HERE
Sun Inn, Newcastle Street, Tuxford
Annual Rent: £27,464 Est. Annual Turnover: £457,234
See the full listing HERE
Investigations continue following the discovery of human skeletal remains
Police are continuing to investigate following the discovery of human skeletal remains near Mansfield.
Members of the public found the remains in a wooded area next to the A617 Rainworth Bypass around 2.45pm on Saturday (May 23 2026).
Specialist archaeologists are on the scene today (Tuesday, May 26) to gather crucial evidence. Officers are also pursuing a number of lines of enquiry to formally identify the person.
A cordon next to the scene is expected to remain in place for some time while this work continues.
Councillors strengthen understanding of SEND services to better support residents
A group of Nottinghamshire county councillors have taken part in a workshop to strengthen their knowledge and understanding of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The session was designed to equip councillors and senior staff with the information and tools needed to effectively support residents, families and schools raising SEND-related concerns.
It also outlined how the council delivers SEND services and the support available to those who need it.
The presentation covered areas including an overview of the SEND system, Nottinghamshire children’s range of SEND needs, the council’s legal responsibilities and ways councillors can support the public.
Attendees also had the opportunity to share their own experiences and insights, followed by a question-and-answer session to explore topics in greater detail.
Trent Sports District set to drive growth across the East Midlands
The Trent Sports District is set to become a major driver of growth for Nottingham and the wider East Midlands – forming a key part of the Trent Arc plan led by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).
Built around one of the UK’s strongest clusters of sports, leisure and waterfront assets, the District will bring these strengths together to support regeneration, attract investment and create a better-connected place for residents, visitors and businesses.
Property and construction consultancy Gleeds has been announced as the consultancy team who will work on the development of a Regeneration Framework for the Trent Sports District. The framework will set out a clear long-term vision and delivery plan for sport-led regeneration across the area.
The area already benefits from internationally recognised sports venues, such as Nottingham Forest Football Club‘s City Ground Stadium, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground and the National Water Sports Centre, strong transport links and a unique riverside setting.
Nottinghamshire Police are heading to Rufford Abbey Country Park, Nottinghamshire
At the Rural and Wildlife Crime Showcase you can get a behind-the-scenes look at all the equipment Nottinghamshire Police use to keep our rural communities safe.
They will also be joined by partners from RSPCA (England & Wales), Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, Via East Midlands, Bransby Horses - Rescue and Welfare , Leash and Release and plenty more.
Wildlife and rural officers will be on hand to offer tips and guidance on a range of issues, or just for a chat.
Rufford Abbey Country Park, Newark
Saturday 27 June
10am-4pm
Worksop and Retford decarbonsation project moves closer
Plans for the largest decarbonisation project ever undertaken by Bassetlaw District Council have moved a step closer.
Cabinet Members have approved the additional investment needed to complete the work at Worksop and Retford Leisure Centres, two of the council’s biggest carbon emitters.
The decarbonisation work will deliver long-term environmental gains and future-proof the centres, with forecast annual energy savings of upto £74k/year.
Detectives believe they have identified human remains
Detectives believe they have identified human remains found at the side of a busy road.
Officers were called to a wooded area next to the A617 Rainworth Bypass on Saturday 23 May by members of the public.
Whilst formal identification is yet to take place, officers believe they have established the person's identity.
His family have been informed of the update, and they are being supported by specialist officers.
New Walking Routes Unveiled in Langold and Worksop
There’s even more reason to get out and about over the next few weeks as Bassetlaw District Council has launched two new walking routes in Langold and Worksop.
The routes, located in Langold Country Park and The Canch in Worksop, have been shaped by local input, with residents helping to name them in a way that reflects the history and heritage of each area.
In Langold, the Green Lady Trail, takes its inspiration from a local myth about a woman said to wander near the lake. While in Worksop, The Gatehouse Walk at connects the nearby gatehouse and its links back to the 14th century, with Worksop’s award-winning park.
TikTok video removed from East Midlands Mayor’s profile after X-rated lyric gaffe
By: Joseph Connolly
A video of East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward welcoming chancellor Rachel Reeves to the UK Real Estate, Infrastructure and Investment forum (UKREiiF) in Leeds has been removed from TikTok after it was noticed that the song overlayed on top contained sexually explicit lyrics.
The clip, posted after the event last Wednesday (may 20), used the song ‘Nasty’ from Ariana Grande’s 2020 album ‘Positions’ over footage of the Mayor and the chancellor embracing before the Mayor is seen to lead her Labour colleague into the ‘East Midlands’ tent at the conference.
But the snippet of the audio used came from a portion of the track with particularly suggestive wording.
The song, referring to the female genitalia, says:
“I just wanna make time for ya (yeah)
Swear it’s just right for ya
Like this ***** designed for ya (yeah)”
Nottinghamshire Police see increase in calls about general noise.
Nottinghamshire Police have advised that they are currently seeing an increase in calls about general noise, such as loud music, garden gatherings, or neighbour disturbances.
They understand that these situations can be frustrating however advise that many noise concerns are not police matters and are usually best dealt with by your local council.
Your local council’s environmental health team has the powers to assess and take action where needed.
There are some circumstances where police involvement may be necessary, such as if noise is linked to anti-social behaviour in a public place, or if there is evidence of crime or an immediate risk to safety.
By contacting the right service first, you can help ensure your issue is resolved more quickly and keep the 101 and 999 lines free for those who need them most.
Heritage Skills Project preserves valued historic buildings
Work carried out as part of a joint Heritage Construction Skills Project involving Bassetlaw District Council has helped to preserve three valued historic buildings.
For the second year, the council teamed up with Pinnacle Conservation to deliver free foundation classes in practical skills including stone masonry, joinery and lime plastering/pointing.
Students have been learning on the job while carrying out repairs at Bassetlaw Museum, Retford Road Chapel in Worksop and the Walks of Life Museum in Tuxford.
Essential Tree Safety Work Near Langold Country Park
Bassetlaw District Council have advised that as part of their ongoing safety checks across parks and open spaces, they’ve identified several Ash trees along the A60 near Langold Country Park that are affected by Ash Dieback.
Sadly, the disease has already caused branches to fall — including one incident that damaged a passing vehicle.
To keep everyone safe, essential tree works, including felling, will now be taking place.
These works are close to the busy A60 between Costhorpe and Langold, so some disruption is expected.
Local authorities celebrated regional fostering partnership working
Foster carers, council leaders, children and families, and fostering professionals from across Derby City, Derbyshire, Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire came together to celebrate the success and future ambitions of the Foster for East Midlands Councils.
The event marked the continued growth of Foster for East Midlands Councils, the regional fostering recruitment hub established in March 2024 by Derby City Council, Derbyshire County Council, Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council. The partnership was initially created though funding from the Department of Education to strengthen foster carer recruitment and retention across the D2N2 region and help ensure more children could remain close to their schools, communities, friends and support networks.
Since launching the partnership has generated nearly 2,700 enquiries, progressed more than 200 applications, and achieved up to 75 new fostering households across the region, delivering growth at a time when fostering numbers are declining nationally.
Worksop Splash Park replacement work due to start on June 1
#bassetlawdistrictcouncil have issued an update on the splash park at the Canch as follows:
We are extremely sorry to say that the Splash Park at the Canch in Worksop will be closed over the next few weeks while major replacement work takes place.We understand this is really disappointing, especially when the weather is so nice.
However, you can still cool off at our Splash Parks in Langold Country Park and Kings’ Park in Retford, which are now open.
Last year, we experienced a number of mechanical and water quality issues and as part of a full audit of the Splash Park over the winter, we identified some significant replacements that needed to be made in our Plant Room, which deals with water treatment and distribution.
Unfortunately, during this time, we have experienced some delays in sourcing and receiving the equipment needed and securing specialist contractors who are available to carry out this work.
The replacement is planned to begin on Monday 1st June, which will extend the lifespan of the Splash Park and ensure we have a modern facility with enhanced safety standards.
Energy charity supports households affected by Energy Price Cap increase
The new Energy Price Cap has been confirmed to go up by 13%, meaning an average increase on energy bills of £221 to around £1,862 per year.
Charity Groundwork Five Counties supports affected households in the East Midlands through its free Green Doctor energy advice service.
This increase will come into effect from 1st July and is influenced by a range of factors, mostly notably the recent rise in cost of wholesale energy prices due to the conflict in the Middle East. This is the highest summer rise in four years.
The Green Doctor is a charity service with a team of 18 energy experts, supporting thousands of households every year through funded home visits with bespoke advice.
The Green Doctor service is available anywhere in the East Midlands to people of any age and background, whether they own their home, rent, or are a council or social housing tenant.
For more information and to get a free home visit, visit the website: www.groundwork.org.uk/fivecounties/green-doctor
We love them but why is it called a '99'? Its definitely not because of the price !
A Mr Whippy with a flake, more commonly known as a 99, is one of life's simple pleasures.
The beloved "99" ice cream cone - soft served ice cream in a cone topped with a Cadbury Flake—has a surprisingly debated history. The three most widely accepted theories centre on its origins in the UK are:
The Portobello Connection: Family oral history suggests the treat was invented in 1922 by the Arcari family, who ran an ice cream shop at 99 Portobello High Street in Edinburgh. They supposedly began breaking large Flakes in half to fit in cones and named the treat after their address.
The Italian Monarchy Theory: Cadbury's official history claims the name comes from the Italian king's elite guard of 99 men. Because Italian immigrants ran most of the UK's ice cream trade in the 1930s, Cadbury named its smaller, ice-cream-specific Flake bars a "99" to symbolize "top-notch" or "first-class" quality.
The Menu Listing: Another common theory is that an ice cream with a Flake was simply listed as number 99 on ice cream van menus, eventually becoming the name of the treat itself.
Regardless of the name's origin, Cadbury capitalised on the trend in the mid-1930s. They began producing a smaller, specialized version of their traditional Flake specifically for the ice cream trade, marketing it as the "99 Flake" to solidify its permanent place in British seaside and street-vendor culture.
Whatever the truth behind the name on a hot sunny day, heading to the ice cream van to buy one and cool you down is a great way to unwind.
99's have no doubt been as popular as ever these last few days following the sunny weather and long may it continue!
Lincolnshire: Cllr leaves Reform
By: Jamie Waller
A Lincolnshire councillor has left Reform after being given a choice by the party’s central leadership.
Councillor Trevor Bridgwood was told he must either leave the party or stand down from West Lindsey District Council, where he’s part of a cross-party administration.
He said that he didn’t want to cause ‘chaos’ for his constituents in the Cherry Willingham ward by quitting.
He will now be an unaligned independent on both Lincolnshire County Council and West Lindsey.
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 R.
Our last panagram was FUSSILADE. 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
Bassetlaw Today
P.S. Your feedback about this newsletter is important to me. You can email me your feedback to news@bassettlawtoday.co.uk
