When and where to see Battle of Britain flypast over Ashfield today
Plus: Tributes to "true gentleman" who ran family business for 57 years
Good morning, readers, and welcome to your Thursday briefing from Ashfield News. Today, where and when to see the Battle of Britain Memorial Flypast, tributes to “true gentleman”, a crackdown on nuisance drivers and much more.
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Eyes to the skies for VE Day flypast
A Battle of Britain flypast will take place over Ashfield today to mark 80 years since VE Day and the end of the Second World War in Europe.
To mark the anniversary, a celebration event will take place on Sutton Lawn from 3.15-5.30pm.
Live entertainment and family fun are all promised during the free event.
In addition to the festivities on the ground, a Hurricane and Spitfire are scheduled to fly over the site.
It is estimated the flypast will travel over Sutton in Ashfield some time between 4.44 and 5.14pm.
Illegal car meet broken up by police
Police officers in Mansfield issued multiple warnings and seized several vehicles during a day of targeted patrols on Monday, 5 May.
The Mansfield South Neighbourhood Policing Team carried out proactive operations to tackle vehicle-related crime, resulting in two Section 59 warnings being issued and an illegal car meet being broken up.
Two nuisance motorcycles were also seized along with a car that had been driven without insurance since March.
Officers say the action is part of ongoing efforts to keep the area’s roads safe for both motorists and pedestrians.
A spokesperson for the team said: “We’re committed to ensuring Mansfield’s roadways remain safe, and we’ll continue to carry out patrols like these to deter illegal and dangerous behaviour.”
Police are urging residents to report any information that could assist in tackling vehicle crime.
Reports can be made via 101, the Nottinghamshire Police website, or anonymously through Crimestoppers.
Sextortion campaign stepped up in county
A campaign to combat sextortion is being stepped up in Nottinghamshire, with a new focus on raising awareness among university students.
Sextortion – a form of online blackmail where criminals threaten to release intimate images unless victims meet their demands – has seen a rise in the county.
Nottinghamshire Police investigated 403 blackmail cases in 2024, 265 of which were sextortion offences. Around 30% of these victims were students.
To tackle the issue, the force is partnering with the University of Nottingham and the Revenge Porn Helpline.
A ‘digivan’ will tour key locations on Friday, 9 May, including campus areas and Old Market Square, displaying prevention messages on large screens.
Detective Inspector Chris Berryman said: “Sextortion can destroy lives. We’re working hard not only to investigate these cases, but to stop them happening in the first place.”
The campaign includes educational materials for students and increased support for victims.
Brydie Adams, from the university, welcomed the initiative, calling it vital for empowering students.
The Revenge Porn Helpline, which supports UK victims of intimate image abuse, is also playing a key role. Its services are available weekdays via 0345 6000 459.
Tributes to ‘true gentleman’ business owner
Tributes have been paid to “true gentleman” John Sankey following the death of the businessman this week.
Mr Sankey was the founder of family-run firm John Sankey Estate Agents and helped build along with his wife Beryl over more than 50 years.
In a heartfelt statement, staff at the estate agency said Mr Sankey was more than a boss – he was family.
“Kind, humble, and generous, he had a way of making everyone feel valued and would go out of his way to help others – always quietly and without fuss,” the statement said.
The business, a cornerstone of Mansfield’s high street for 57 years, will continue under the same ethos Mr Sankey instilled in his team, the firm added.
The family and staff have asked for privacy during this difficult time.
A message from the team added: “Thank you, Mr Sankey, for everything you’ve done for us and for Mansfield. Your legacy will live on in every home we help find.”
Liquidator appointed to popular coffee shop
A firm has been appointed to liquidate a popular former Nottinghamshire coffee shop.
Balmforth & Co announced in April it was closing its shop in Kirk Gate, Newark, “with a heavy heart”.
A statement from the company at the time stated: “It’s been a very challenging few years and unfortunately, we have been left with no other choice.
“To all our customers, who have been part of our journey for the last nine years, we thank you for supporting us, it’s been a pleasure to be part of Newark.”
It has now been confirmed the firm has entered voluntary liquidation, with Paul Hargreaves of Nexus Corporate Solutions, appointed to oversee the process.