Tributes paid to cyclist with "infectious laugh"
Plus: Heat alert as temperatures to soar
Good morning readers and welcome to your Thursday briefing from Ashfield News. Today, a new heat alert as temperatures to rise above 30C, tributes to cyclist who died after crash and much more. Please note, there will be no Ashfield News next week - we’'ll return on 7 July!
If you don’t already subscribe to Ashfield News, you can click the button below to get this newsletter sent straight to your inbox every week.
Tributes to cyclist with “infectious laugh”
The family of a cyclist who died following a crash in Pleasley have paid tribute to a much-loved father described as having an “infectious laugh” and a kind heart.
Jamie Intress, 37, suffered serious injuries in a crash with a car in Chesterfield Road North on 29 May.
He died in hospital on 13 June.
In a statement released through police, his family said: “Jamie was loving, lovable and had an infectious laugh. He would always find a positive thing to say about anyone.
“When Jamie wasn’t at work he enjoyed spending time with his children, family and friends, by going on bike rides and swimming. He also loved being with his dog, Lunar.
“As a family we are absolutely devastated and heartbroken. He may be gone but he will never be forgotten.”
A 25-year-old woman was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and drug driving. She remains on police bail while inquiries continue.
Police have asked anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
New heat health alert issued
A heat-health alert has been issued across England, with residents in Ashfield warned to prepare for high temperatures and increased health risks, particularly for the elderly, young children and those with existing medical conditions.
The alert, issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Met Office, runs until 6pm on Tuesday, 1 July.
It warns of the potential for heat-related illnesses and additional pressure on local health and care services.
In Ashfield, temperatures are expected to peak on Monday (30 June), reaching highs of around 31C, with very warm conditions also forecast over the weekend.
People are being urged to stay hydrated, avoid the sun during the hottest part of the day, keep homes cool, and check in on vulnerable neighbours and relatives.
The public is also advised to look out for signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and to seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
Firm launched during pandemic to close
A window installation company that began as a one-man operation during the pandemic has announced it will close after five years in business.
Ryan Harris, of Harris & Sons Windows Ltd, confirmed the decision in a personal statement this week.
Mr Harris launched the company in 2020 with just himself and a van, handling everything from pitching and selling to surveying, installing, and managing operations.
He described working long hours — even through the night — to grow the business and build the firm.
Despite launching during a time when Covid-19 was forcing businesses around the country to shut down, Mr Harris grew the company from nothing to generating more than £500,000, eventually employing fitting teams and office staff.
“We on the other hand felt like Harris & Sons Windows were indestructible and we kept on growing,” he wrote.
But in 2023, a number of contracts didn’t go to plan, and invoices remained unpaid despite work being completed — a situation that, Mr Harris said, caused a “major loss” for the company.
“After exploring all of our options that would see us go on, I feel that this is the only viable option,” he said. “It is with a heavy heart that I announce the closure of Harris & Sons Windows Ltd.”
The company is now working with a liquidation team to wind down operations “professionally and with respect.”
In his message, Mr Harris thanked customers for their trust and support.
Call to preserve memory of soldiers
People in Nottinghamshire are being encouraged to help preserve the memory of those from the county who died during the Second World War.
The Nottinghamshire Roll of Honour, launched in 2011 and supported by Nottinghamshire County Council, already lists almost 14,000 local names from the First World War.
More than 5,000 names from the Second World War have since been added but volunteers say many are still missing.
Led by Dr David Nunn, the project team is calling on the public to submit names, photographs, and stories to ensure a complete and lasting tribute.
Colonel (Retired) Kelvin Wright, the council’s armed forces champion, praised the work, calling it “a significant piece of work” that has “rightly received international acclaim and Royal approval.”
Dr Nunn said public involvement is vital, adding: “Many WWII casualties are not recorded on physical memorials. Our upgraded site allows communities to help fill in the gaps.”
Residents can email missingnames@outlook.com with names, photos, or to volunteer as researchers.