Skipper Marc Richards has branded the Cobblers’ performance in Easter Monday’s 1-1 draw with Shrewsbury Town ‘really poor’ and admitted the team should be ‘performing better’.

Town ended the clash with Shrews with just nine men after red cards were dished out to Dave Buchanan and John-Joe O’Toole, but despite those setbacks Richards felt the match was there for the taking.

The Cobblers are still not mathematically safe in Sky Bet League one after a winless run of six matches.

Town know a draw at Bury on Saturday will now do the job, but Richards felt Monday was an opportunity missed to seal that safety earlier.

“Shrewsbury were well-drilled but I thought we were really poor,” said the Town captain.

“There was no consistency with our play at all, we didn’t keep the ball well enough and things just didn’t go our way.

“All in all, a point was probably a fair outcome but we’re not satisfied with that performance. With the players we’ve got in the squad we should be taking three points.

“There are players in the squad that are more than capable of playing at this level and as a squad we should be pushing and performing better than we have done today (Monday).”

Town went into the game off the back of a 3-0 defeat at Millwall on Good Friday.

Unhappy manager Justin Edinburgh had stated he expected a big reaction following that defeat at the New Den, but it never really materialised despite Richards heading the team into the lead midway through the first half.

“It was a good opportunity to put things right after Millwall but we didn’t do that as a team,” said the skipper.

“Too many were off their game and there’s no excuses. We prepare as best we can, like any other club does so there are no excuses - it just didn’t click.

“We’ve got to find a solution as to how to improve as individuals and as a team.

“We’re always looking to progress and to be better and the lads aren’t satisfied with the result.”

The Cobblers now travel to Bury on Saturday in the knowledge that a point will be enough to guarantee survival after the Shakers drew 0-0 at promotion-chasing Bolton Wanderers on Tuesday night.

Richards is obviously keen for the club’s future to be decided as quickly as possible, and said: “Monday is another point closer to where we want to be and to surviving in this league.

“We’ll use it as a stepping stone for the club to progress again after the promotion last season. and ultimately survival this year was the main objective at the start of the season.

“Maybe some people got carried away with how things were going at the start of the season but we’re a point closer.

“Two teams have been relegated now and there are two spots to go. The ball is in our court.”

He then laughed as he screened footage of the incident to his colleagues back at the station.

Special Sergeant Alec Bedford, 26, was disciplined yesterday (April 18) at a hearing at Northamptonshire Police Headquarters, in Northampton, for his part in a "distressing" incident involving an 87-year-old woman and her husband in their own home.

Chair of the misconduct hearing Geoffrey Payne said: "The trust the victims involved in this case had in Northamptonshire Police is now gone.

"This was a life-changing event for the couple and one that hurts the reputation of the force."

Special Sergeant Bedford did not attend his disciplinary hearing.

He was one of three officers called to the house in the Daventry area in July 2015 following a two-week-old report of domestic violence at the property.

The resulting incidents at the elderly couple's house were filmed on one of the officer's body-worn cameras.

The 87-year-old woman protested when the officers said they would arrest her 90-year-old husband and tried to use a telephone to call their daughter.

Mr Payne said: "The footage shows Bedford shouting 'sit down now' very close to the woman's face, before forcibly pushing her down into her seat.

"It was then that the woman caused an action that leaves a scratch on Bedford, to which Bedford says 'you'll be arrested for assault in a minute if you're not careful'.

"[Another, higher-ranking officer] then tells Bedford to 'lock her up'. After a moment, Bedford replies 'yeah, that's it', then pulls the woman to her feet and tells her she is under arrest."

The footage then shows Bedford alternating between restraining the elderly woman and attempting to take her phone from her.

The panel then heard how, later that week, an officer saw Bedford screening the footage of the 'distressing' arrest to his colleagues.

Mr Payne said: "He was loud, laughing and not taking any notes. It is apparent there was no reason for the other officers to see this footage and that it was an attempt to be sensational."

But Bedford was then caught screening to footage again to another officer three days later - by the 87-year-old victim in the video.

My Paynes said: "When the woman and her daughter arrived at the police station to settle her arrest at her house, she found Bedford on the front desk showing the footage to his colleague.

"The footage shows two very distressed members of the public. This was entertainment in the loosest sense of the word and shows a very complacent attitude towards confidentiality."

Although Bedford later apologised for his behaviour, the panel found that his actions amounted to misconduct.

Mr Payne said: "This is a serious incident, but one that falls on the lesser end of the spectrum, as he did not leak the footage to a third-party. Additionally, he was instructed to arrest the victim by a high-ranking officer.

"However, there was a high level of culpability involved and considerable harm was caused to the victims."

Bedford was issued a final written warning, meaning any further misconduct over the next 18 months will put him at risk of dismissal.

Another officer at the incident was sanctioned at a separate hearing.

Tony McMurray of Towcester set out to reach the Everest Base Camp to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society on the morning of April 25, 2015 before the 7.8 magnitude earthquake, killed 9,000 people and injured more than 22,000.

Tony and his team had to rely on the skill and courage of local lead Sherpa, Sukman, who did not know if his own family members were alive further down the mountain.

On leaving Nepal in May 2015 Tony made a promise to his Sherpa, Sukman that he would one day help him visit the UK.

He said: "When I last saw Sukman in May 2015, I promised I would bring him to the UK on a visit to meet my family and friends so they could personally thank him for bringing me down the mountain alive.

“I have had to provide a number of personal documents in order to support Sukman’s stay in the UK, and all is now set for an emotional week of reunions and lots of sight-seeing for him.

"I am sponsoring his week-long visit to the UK and have a week of trips to London planned and some other sites our country has to offer."

Tony's friend, Ellis, was further up the mountain when the quake struck and the trio were reunited four days after the devastation in 'an emotional reunion'.

Tony's wife Sharon waited 30 agonising hours to discover whether her husband was alive.

She said: “I am looking forward to meeting the man we now call ‘superman’ Sukman."

Sukman’s one-week stay will start with a special ‘Evening with Tony, Ellis and Sukman’, which is scheduled to start at 6pm on Sunday, June, 4 at the Saracens Head Hotel in Towcester.

All three intrepid explorers will appear on stage in front of more than 70 people and each will tell of their own unique journies to Everest in 2015, as well as what it was like to experience a quake on the highest mountain on earth.

Sukman will also explain how fundraising work is helping to rebuild his own village, which was destroyed in the avalanche.

Tickets cost £15 and there will be cheese and port included in the price. Those wishing to purchase tickets can do so via Sharon McMurray on 07792189022. Alternatively, Tony can be contacted directly on 07702 662098.

Ellis will also be on hand to sign his recently published book, ‘Everest it’s not about the Summit’, with all profits on the night - including book sales - going towards helping rebuild Nepal.

Inspector Daryl Lyon for Wellingborough and East Northants Neighbourhoods team has served in the force for 11 years and is the lead for a social media campaign tackling gang crime in the county.

The #gangsruinlives campaign is using social media and flyers to help people to recognise if someone they know might be getting involved in gang culture.

The campaign aims to reach people through Instagram, Facebook and Twitter and is currently targeting people in areas including the east of Northampton.

But in an interview with the Chronicle and Echo, the top officer has revealed some youths are getting their hands on guns.

He said: "Yes, well we are seeing firearms, we took 15 firearms off the streets within gangs," he said.

"People will readily carry knives and other forms of weapons and they can spill over into school.

"They can be carried for protection, or for by those who are fearful of others. They are then immediately kicked out of school and are set onto a path of difficulties."

The social media campaign has resulted in more than 1,500 hits to Northamptonshire Police and Crimestoppers’ websites and Northamptonshire Police monitor trends through what links readers click on.

On asking him whether estates such as those seen in the east of Northampton can be a breeding ground for gangs, he said: "Yes, estates are where there are lots of people they know and lots of people interested in getting involved in gangs.

"Put yourself in the shoe of a young 14-year-old who has perhaps had some difficulties at school and his aspirations are fairly low.

"Gangs give them all the things they want very quickly. For example, instant gratification and instant recognition and they have some degree of a hierarchy in the structure within a gang.

"Members get money and cash really easily and quickly.

"Part of our message is to say there isn't just this aspect of gangs. Gang life isn't about all the good stuff that you might be able to see today, there are actually all these other things, the violence that comes with it. You’ll be stepping on other gang members' toes and that will cause an issue for you."

Inspector Lyon said that youngest gang member he has known was 12-years-old and the main violence the force saw last year involved teens around 14,15,16 years of age.

On asking why he believes youths drift into gang life, he said poor interaction with school can be to blame.

"If you keep people in school that's the best place they can be," he said.

Information can be found at http://northants.police.uk/page/gang-related-crime and anyone concerned about the gang-related activity can call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Always call 999 if a crime is in progress or someone is in immediate danger.

The Prime Minister yesterday called for a UK general election on June 8 to decide the country's leadership for the coming Brexit negotiations.

The general election would follow just a month after the Northamptonshire county elections on May 4.

Chronicle & Echo readers have now shared their thoughts on the announcement on our Facebook page, and reactions have ranged from welcoming to resigned.

Daniel Worley said: "We need a strong and stable Government who will work together to keep this country great and maintain good relations with other countries now and after Brexit.

"I understand it's a fight for parties but right now we need to pull together and make it work. We are all in the same boat as people. A group is always stronger than an individual."

But another reader, Steve Paine, replied: "This country isn't great, hasn't been for a long time. That's party political rubbish. We need to talk about people and making things good in society for all citizens and not leave anyone behind.

"The Tories have cut everything, and people are suffering as a result. And it hasn't paid one penny off any debt, and has quadrupled the national debt in the process. They have caused mayhem and chaos. Why would anyone vote for more of the same?"

Others groaned at the prospect of another election. Dave Rawlings said: "Boring. The next two months will now be spent picking over the details of manifestoes that aren't worth the paper they are written on."

MP for Northampton North Michael Ellis welcomed the decision and said: "This will be quite a whirlwind. We've never had a snap election in my time as an MP.

"I think we need this election right now. The main reason is we need a secure, certain and stable leadership for the country to see us through Brexit.

"Westminster is currently divided, and that division weakens the Prime Minister's hand in negotiating.

"I want my constituents in Northampton North to know that I will be standing for re-election this June."

Dave Mackintosh, MP for Northampton South, said: "I think Theresa May is right to call this election and to give the public the opportunity to decide who they want to lead our country at this important time in our history.

“I have dealt with over 20,000 individual constituent cases, and last year I was recognised as the fifth most responsive Member of Parliament to constituents, and the most responsive out of all MPs elected in 2015. I would like to continue that work as the Member of Parliament for Northampton South after the election in June so will be seeking re-election."

Theresa May will ask Parliament for permission to hold the election today (April 19) at Prime Minister's Questions.

Plans to build a new gurdwara in St James Mill Road, were first mooted in 2012 when Northampton Sikhs bought an old Cosworth factory building there and gained planning permission to develop the site into a place of worship.

Minor demolition works have been taking place since then, but construction could soon get underway from June, after architects' designs of the new centre were released this week.

Sikh leader Amarjit Singh Atwal, who is one of the project leaders and trustees, said: "Our current gurdwara in St George's Street (near the town centre) just doesn't have the number of parking spaces we need.

"The building we have at the moment, we can't perform big wedding ceremonies, big funerals and big celebrations.

"This will give us four-or-five times the capacity and we will have our own 120-space car park."

Currently, Northampton Sikhs have to hire third-party venues for its community groups to use.

But the new Siri Guru Singh Sabha gurdwara in St James, part-funded by donations from the Sikh community and a loan from Natwest, will feature community rooms available for hire as well as a gym available to the wider public.

Mr Atwal said the architects' drawings have now been sent out to tender and it is hoped a contractor will be in place by June.

The first phase of the building the external works, could be finished by February, 2018. Internal works may not be complete until February 2019, however.

"We want everyone to use the space when it is built," said Mr Atwal. "People can just hire the hall, or the classrooms for meetings.

"This new building will enable us to enhance the services we provide."

A man brutally raped a woman as she walked home from a night out in Northamptonshire just 11 days after he moved to the UK.

Florin Moraru, 25, has been jailed for the New Year’s Day attack.

Northampton Crown Court heard how Moraru, of Regent Street, Kettering, had been at a club in the town celebrating the turn of 2017 when he met the victim.

Prosecuting, Nicola Moore told the court: “The defendant came up to her and tried to kiss her and she kissed him back.

“She went outside for a cigarette and he pestered for sex.

“She said no and went back into the club.

“He followed and asked her to go with her so they could have sex.

“She said it was never going to happen.”

The victim left but Moraru, a Romanian national, continued to follow her.

She asked three men for help as he was hassling her on her way to a shop.

They spoke to Moraru and she left but still, he followed her and was later seen on CCTV in the streets of Kettering about a minute behind her.

She decided to cut through St Andrew’s churchyard in Rockingham Road at 5am when she heard Moraru behind her.

Moraru punched her in the face and she fell to the floor and screamed “no, no, no”.

He continued to punch her about seven or eight times, leaving her with serious facial injuries and fractures, and was shouting “shut up you f****** b****”. When the victim stopped struggling Moraru raped her.

A victim impact statement read to the court by Miss Moore described the impact of the attack on the woman.

Miss Moore said: “She said that she felt responsible for what happened and felt physically sick when she thought about it.

"She indicated that she did not like to go out after dark and insisted that she is accompanied.” A passer-by heard her screams and tried to get the attention of another man to help but he did not speak English.

They called 999 and police officers arrived just after 5.15am.

A DNA sample matched Moraru’s and he was arrested on January 6 at his place of work, a car wash in Corby.

He originally denied causing any injuries and said the sex was consensual but later pleaded guilty at Northampton Crown Court.

Moraru was on licence, having been released from prison in Romania after the serious robbery of a woman. He had been in the UK for just 11 days when he carried out the attack.

He was jailed for 10 years and eight months for rape and 18 months for ABH, to be served concurrently.

He was also made the subject of an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and made to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life.

Sentencing, His Honour Judge Mayo said: “It was plain to anybody that she did not want your company.

“You waited, you were a minute behind her as you followed her into a churchyard.

“In the churchyard you brutally raped her and used your fists to smash her face in.”

Detective Sergeant Nick Cobley, who led the investigation, said: “Florin Moraru is an extremely violent man who carried out a despicable act.

“His behaviour on the night of the incident was predatory and calculated, showing a high level of persistence and having no regard for his victim’s rights or wishes.

“Today’s sentencing has brought a swift resolution to an horrific incident, ensuring this evil man is locked up and unable to commit further offences or put anybody else through such a terrifying ordeal. “I’d like to commend the victim for her bravery and hope today’s sentencing brings some for of closure for her.”

Megan Eyles, who runs Peppertrees gift shop in the Ridings Arcade, said the two men took a day's worth of takings in the two distraction thefts on Good Friday at 3.30pm and the following day at 2.20pm.

Security camera footage shows that on both occasions a man in a white baseball cap stood in the eye-line of the shop assistant, while a second man crouched on the floor to steal goods.

On the Saturday a customer confronted the second man as he loaded his rucksack with expensive candles. He made for the door when the customer raised the alarm however.

Having realised the men had taken around £300 worth of stock, Miss Eyles posted pictures of the suspected culprits at around 5pm. In just a few days the post that has already been shared close to 500 times.

In it Miss Eyles wrote: "Most of our customers are genuine and lovely people.

"However these three people (referring to the CCTV images) have stolen 15 candles from us in the space of 24 hours.

"If anyone recognises them please send me a message so we can pass on information to the police and help stop it happening in other small businesses."

Miss Eyles' shop is just yards away from the now closed Mace newsagents in St Giles Street, which owner Andrew Cruden decided to shut last week due to the sheer number of times he was hit by shoplifters.

Miss Eyles, who is a relatively young business owner at 23, feels more needs to be done to help retailers in the town combat the shop thieves.

"It's not just me, everyone down here has been done," she said. "We are all independent shops.

"This sort of thing is really annoying, it's £300 a the end of the day - that's a day's takings."

However she said she has been pleased with the response to the thefts on social media.

Among the 500 shares people have been in touch with her from America to voice their sympathy and the post has gained 100 more "likes" on her shop's Facebook page.

"If there is a silver lining to this whole thing, that's it," she added.

David Ribbans says he has already learned a lot from fellow Saints lock Courtney Lawes.

The pair have started the past two games together in the second row.

And both men have been impressive despite late misery in matches against Wasps and Saracens.

Ribbans arrived at Saints from Western Province in January and the 21-year-old is savouring the chance to pick up information from his new club's international stars.

He said: "We've got the likes of Tom Wood, Courtney Lawes, Dylan Hartley, and playing alongside players like that has really been encouraging.

"It has helped me a lot along the way.

"Every day I'm learning a lot from Courtney. It's great chatting to him, great to play alongside him and I'm learning so much as a player."

Sunday's defeat against Saracens came after Saints surrendered a 25-12 lead, conceding two tries in the final 11 minutes of the match to lose 27-25 at Stadium MK.

And Ribbans said: "The boys were disappointed. We left a lot out there, the boys were physical and we manned up for most of the game.

"It was tough to lose it at the end and the boys are disappointed.

"We were a bit unlucky in the past couple of games, but we've got to stay positive.

"We've got two big games coming up (at Exeter and at home to Harlequins) and we've got to keep fighting for everything."

Screaming Blue Murder
The Core at Corby Cube, April 28
Making a return to the venue will be three top comedians out to make the audience laugh. Alan Francis, Harriet Kemsley and Dan Nightingale will be the headline acts for the comedy night with the entertainment compered by Carly Smallman. The night is for over 16s only.
01536 470470 or www.thecorecorby.com

Remembering Fred
Royal & Derngate, Northampton, April 28
There are not many tickets left for this show remembering Fred Astaire. Strictly favourite Aljaz Skorjanec steps into his shoes alongside his fiancee Janette Manrara, another pro from the show. Such is demand, a new date has been added for April next year.
01604 624811 or www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Comedy at The Ark
The Ark, Midsummer Meadow, Northampton, April 26
Archie Maddocks and Lauren Pattinson will be the first to bring their 2017 Edinburgh shows to Northampton. Expect plenty of laughs from both comedians who will be warming up for the fringe festival. Tickets cost £4 online or £5 on the door.
mike@mikelordcomedy.com or visit www.wegottickets.com

Patrick Monahan
Kettering Arts Centre, April 29
That 80’s Show is the sequel to Patrick’s hit 2015 show The Disco Years. Patrick talks about his personal experience of the 80s. From moving with his parents from Iran to the UK to starting school without any English to discrimination, no subject is untouchable to Patrick.
www.ketteringartscentre.co.uk

Dirty Dancing
Milton Keynes Theatre, April 24-29
Have the time of your life when this popular musical makes a return to Milton Keynes Theatre next week. Based on the film of the same name, nobody will want to put Baby in the corner after watching this show complete with some of the most memorable tracks and, of course, the famous lift.
0844 871 7652 or www.atgtickets.co.uk/miltonkeynes

Copacabana
The Lighthouse Theatre, Kettering, April 25 to 29
Her name was Lola. She was a showgirl and so begins her journey in this musical. Based around the songs of the legendary musician Barry Manilow, expect more glitz, glamour and sequins than in a West End show and all at a fraction of the price.
01536 414141 or www.lighthousetheatre.co.uk

Shakespearience Corby
The Core at Corby Cube. April 23
A creative, inspiring and interactive festival that has been developed, delivered and created by local young people, Shakespearience Corby takes over The Core for the day offering fun and exciting ways to engage with Shakespeare.
There are sessions starting at 11am and 1pm.
01536 470470 or www.thecorecorby.com

Stuart Goldsmith
Royal & Derngate, Northampton, May 5.
Fresh from appearances on Russell Howard’s Stand Up Central and Alan Davies’ As Yet Untitled on Dave, Stuart Goldsmith returns . He has performed a month long run of packed houses at the Edinburgh Fringe, this new hour of funny material isn’t all about being a parent.
01604 624811 or www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Chris Kamara and Charlie Nicholas
The Deco, Northampton, April 28
It’s absolutely unbelieveable but the Sky Sports Soccer Saturday team of Chris Kamara and Charlie Nicholas visit Northampton. They will both be talking about their careers both before and after retiring from playing the beautiful game.
01604 491005 or www.thedeco.co.uk

The Ladyboys of Bangkok.
The Lighthouse Theatre, Kettering, May 2
A show that is hotter, sexier and funnier than ever, one of the top touring cabaret shows returns to the UK stage. The lavish new production Who Runs the World comes to Kettering as part of a nationwide tour and expect lots of covers.
01536 414141 or www.lighthousetheatre.co.uk

Musicians from across the county will be taking part in NMFusion this weekend to help raise money for the town’s annual music festival.

The all-day event on Saturday, April 22, is at the Charles Bradlaugh and has been organised by final year Events Management students from the University of Northampton.

Split into two parts, the night set will be headlined by Madame Electrifie with the day headlined by Emily Faye.

NMFusion Project Manager Shannon Rowland said: “We’re really lucky to have so many performers willing to perform and donate their time to the event. We’ve got a brilliant line-up and are so appreciative to everyone who is playing - it’s great to see so much support for NMFusion and the Northampton Music Festival.

“Northampton has a really varied music scene so there was a lot to choose from.”

Music begins at midday with sets by Alex Taylor, Jen Dobson, Stacey Pierre, George Carson, Velvet Engine, Nicole Drury & Tom Jones, Amii Dawes, Carly Loasby and Will Rogers before Emily Faye headlines. Music the resumes at 7pm with sets by Empyre, O’Mahon, Sarpa Salpa, Eddy and the Remedy, Leo Robinson and Charlie Borthwick and The Red Triangle before headliner Madame Electrifie.

The Northampton Music Festival is due to take place in June but organisers are yet to reveal details.

Tickets for NMFusion are available the day or night events or both. Prices start at £6 for adults, and £4 for children.

http://bit.ly/NMFusion

Neville Staple and Don Letts are joining up for a night of ska and reggae at the Roadmender on April 22.

Neville released his latest album, Return Of Judge Roughneck in February. To promote the album, he is out on the road with his band and his wife Christine Staple.

Staple’s 35-year career in the music business is well documented, from the early days with The Coventry Automatics, The Specials and Fun Boy 3 in the late 1970s and 1980s, to The Special Beat and various other collaborations during his solo career.

Following on from the 2009 Specials reunion and Neville’s departure from the band in late 2012, he continues to be a forerunner of the ska movement.

Following Staple’s set, Letts will DJ into the early hours. The iconic DJ, film director and musician rose to notoriety in the 1970s, helping to turn a generation of punks onto reggae. Doors 9pm, tickets cost £16 before fees.

Leading Electric Light Orchestra tribute band the ELO Experience are back in the county again on April 27 for another night of hits by the band.

With more combined UK and US hits than any other band of their era, the Electric Light Orchestra performed to packed out stadiums around the world.

Blending rock rhythms with classical influences, they released a number of classic albums including A New World Record, Discovery and Out Of The Blue as well as playing across the world.

Formed seven years ago, The ELO Experience describe themselves as the world’s foremost tribute to ELO. Doors 7.30pm, tickets £23.

Next Sunday, Northants rock choirs and the Northampton Male Voice Choir will both be performing at the venue and raising money for the Northampton Hope Centre.

royalandderngate.co.uk

Trentino’s dramatic history has produced a wealth of mighty castles and forts – and one of the best ways to sample them is by train.

This summer, after sell-out seasons in 2015 and 2016, Il Trenino dei Castelli will run again on the Trento-Malé line, offering guided tours of four of our most dramatic and interesting castles: San Michele and Caldes in the Val di Sole, and Valer and Thun in the Val di Non.

Expect stunning scenery, fascinating history and culture, and delicious food and wine. This year’s programme also features three special trains for children.

For centuries, Trentino has been on the front line – between Italy and the Alps, between northern and southern Europe, and between competing kingdoms and empires.

As a result, the province is thickly-strewn with castles and forts. Some retain their original gothic forms. Many were later revamped in graceful Renaissance style by Trento’s powerful prince-bishops.

Others reflect the tensions that led to the Great War. So whatever style of fortification you fancy, you’ll find a striking example of it here. Fairy-tale lakeside castles, crenellated strongholds, thick concrete bunkers, sunk deep into the ground: we’ve got them all. Many are now open to visitors.

There are all sorts of ways to explore this rich heritage: but the most relaxing is our summer railway service – Il Trenino dei Castelli. This year, it began running every Saturday from April 15 to June 10 and continues from July 29 to September 16, linking Trento with the Val di Sole and the Val di Non. Accompanied by expert tour guides, passengers visit four of our most impressive castles, as well as feasting on local food and wine.

Meanwhile, on three Sundays – June 4, July 30, August 20 – we’re laying on a special children’s service. Young castle-lovers will travel at discounted rates, and enjoy a range of events, from workshops and guided tours to a treasure hunt for the whole family.

Il Trenino dei Castelli: the programme

The tour leaves Trento by train at 8.45 with a hearty breakfast courtesy of local apple producer Melinda and local Latte Trento milk brand. It winds up into the mountains to the town of Mezzana, where the party transfers to coaches at 10.35.

Then it’s on to the castles; starting with the Castello di San Michele in the Val di Sole. Dominated by a soaring 25m keep, it stands on a crag overlooking the valley, and its commanding position made it a hot property amongst the region’s elite.

Over the centuries it’s been the possession of the Prince-Bishops of Trento, the Counts of Tyrol-Görz, the de Federici family, the Heydorfs and Bertellis.

Next stop is the Castel Caldes: a rich mix of architectural styles (Venetian, German and Lombard) typical of this contested border region. The charming interior is famous for its frescoes.

Legend has it that one of the rooms was painted by the young countess Marianna Elisabetta Thun, who was confined there by her father Rodemond, to prevent her from marrying for love, not material advantage. She’s said to have died of a broken heart as a result.

The third fortress is the Castel Valer, which is owned by Count Ulrico Spaur and now open to the public. Girdled by apple orchards, and backed by soaring mountain mountain peaks, it’s a dramatic spot, and has the tallest castle tower in Trentino (40m).

Last but by no means least is the mighty Castel Thun. Austere on the outside, richly-decorated within, this is one of Trentino’s most important historic monuments. It was built in the mid-13th century as the principal seat of the Thun family, and stayed in their possession for over 700 years.

In 1992, it was bought by the province of Trento, and offers a fascinating perspective across nearly eight centuries of aristocratic life. It’s crammed full of grand family portraits and magnificent antiques, but the most sumptuous interior comes courtesy of the Bishop’s room, with its pinewood panelling, coffered ceiling and monumental doorway.

Throughout the tour, expert guides provide a commentary on the history, culture and landscape of the Val di Sole and the Val di Non. There’s also a chance to sample local food and wine – courtesy of the Strada della Mela consortium and the wine-makers of the Cantina Rotari Mezzacorona. The day ends with the return to Trento at 7.15pm.

TRAVEL FACTS

See www.iltreninodeicastelli.it or for further information about art and culture, visit www.visittrentino.info/culture

The Northampton Proactive Team are a selection of plainclothed police officers who specialise in arresting suspected dangerous criminals and drug dealers in the town.

The team last week tweeted pictures of the burglary kit, complete with weapons and balaclavas, which it claimed to have recovered from university accomodation in Northampton.

"Apparently this is how they give out student loans nowadays, one arrested for proceeds of crime #StopSearch," the tweet read.

"Following on from cash seizure search at student residence uncovers criminality #NotInOurTown."

The photos appear to show multiple mobile phones and a hold-all stashed with bank notes.

A Northamptonshire Police spokesperson said: “We would like to thank the University of Northampton for their continuing support in tackling crime and assisting our investigations.

"As this most recent seizure demonstrates, this ongoing partnership helps ensure students and the wider public are kept as safe as possible from the small number of individuals that may commit or attempt to commit an offence for their own gain.”

Half of us (48%) confess to believing we are good or very good at DIY despite a third (33%) having admitted that they have suffered a DIY disaster.

A quarter of fearful Brits (27%) revealed that they wouldn’t even dream of taking on a large DIY project themselves. However, of those who say they are terrible at DIY, 39% are still giving it a go with one fifth of Handy Andy’s (17%) splashing out up to £500 to fix the error of their ways.

People in Leeds (45%), Bristol (43%) and Manchester (42%) are the most prone to a mishap according to the survey.

Time is money

Overall, 40% of DIY projects were underestimated in terms of cost, and 46% were underestimated in terms of time. Despite this, three quarters of people (76%) believe they saved money doing it themselves. Meanwhile eight out of ten Brits would happily take on another significant DIY project, while 19% are putting their spanner to bed.

The survey, from money saving experts Voucherbox.co.uk has found that those with experience of kitchen renovations give a different tale as over a third (35%) report it costing over £4,000. More than 1 in 10 (13%) cost over £10,000 and 6% over £20,000.

Building on a budget

35% of Brits prioritise redecorating and set aside an average £500 for the task while 15% are getting their green fingers at the ready to tackle gardening, with a budget of up to £1,000.

Of those who had recently re-decorated, almost three in ten (28%) stated it cost more than they anticipated, almost the same amount who believe they may have lost money by not hiring a tradesperson (29%). Whilst the majority (48%) took an average of 2 weeks to complete the re-decorating, 36% reported that it took longer than first expected.

Marco Piu, Voucherbox general manager, said: “Spring is a popular time to dust off those tools and start putting planned DIY projects into action. The survey revealed re-decorating is on the agenda for the majority of Brits, which makes it the perfect time to hunt for online deals.

“The survey also revealed several unfortunate incidents which are often the result of inexperience. DIY merchant blogs and social channels provide a great source of expert tips and best practice that will hopefully keep you from making a costly mistake.”

Indian restaurant The Royal Bengal in Bridge Street, which was initially opened back in 1975, will serve up its last meal on Saturday, May, 6.

In a Facebook post, owner Mohammed Ahmin, said: "After months of failed negotiations with the property owners for a similar lease agreement for the last 40 years or so I have decided I cannot commit to the level of increased rent that they are demanding coupled with other increasing costs and other factors such as lack of parking on Bridge Street and the reputation of Bridge Street.

"The restaurant was initially opened by my father back in 1975 and it was probably one of the most successful Indian restaurants in Northampton during the 80s and 90s.

"It is one of the hardest decisions I have made to close the restaurant and as you can imagine my family and especially my father are devastated."

Although the restaurant has fallen victim to rising costs, Mohammed admitted on social media that he accepts he could be partly to blame.

"Maybe I could have prepared for this better by moving premises or something? We have always tried to be a friendly and family orientated establishment," he said.

"I have always tried to do things slightly differently by offering entertaining themed nights for parties and holding many charity events.

"I'm not sure how much we have raised for good causes since we opened back in 1975 but I can say one of my greatest achievements at the Royal Bengal was to raise over £62,700 from March 2011 to March 2017 and we still have three more fundraising events before we close."

He has paid thanks to his friends and customers for pledging their support to The Royal Bengal for the last 42 years.

Nestlé has recalled a batch of its Kitkat Original Milk Chocolate Bites Pouch Bags because it instead contains Kitkat Peanut Butter Bites.

This means that peanuts and nuts are not declared on the label, leading to a potential health risk for anyone with an allergy to nuts and/or peanuts.

The 104g bags have a batch code of 70720457V2 and are ‘Best before’ the end of December 2017.

No other Nestlé or Kitkat products are known to be affected.

A company statement read: “If you have bought the above product and have an allergy to nuts and/or peanuts do not eat it.

“Instead dispose of the contents, and send the empty pack with your name and address for a full refund to: KITKAT Bites Recall, Freepost Consumer Services, Nestle UK Ltd, York. Alternatively you may wish to phone 0800 604604.

The incident happened on Thursday, April 13, between 10pm and 10.30pm on Billing Brook Road, Northamptonshire Police have today revealed.

He is described as a white, 5ft 6 inches tall, 40-year-old bald man with a large build and pale complexion.

A police spokeswoman said: "He was wearing a fisherman style hat with a peak, a blue bomber-style jacket, black cargo trousers and was carrying a drawstring bag."

Witnesses can contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 111 555 using the incident number: 17000155644

Courtney Lawes and George North have been included in the British & Irish Lions squad for this summer’s tour of New Zealand - but Dylan Hartley has missed out.

Warren Gatland named his touring group on Wednesday afternoon, with two Saints stars getting the call.

But it was disappointment for Hartley, who has captained England to two successive Six Nations titles as well as a tour whitewash in Australia.

In the hooker department, the Lions have opted to select Ireland’s Rory Best, Wales No.2 Ken Owens and Hartley’s England deputy, Jamie George.

Hartley, who missed out on the 2013 Lions tour due to suspension, will now be expected to be named in the England squad that will travel to Argentina this summer.

That announcement will be made on Thursday morning.

Meanwhile, Hartley’s Saints team-mates Lawes and North can prepare themselves for the trip to New Zealand.

Lawes has been in fine form for club and country this season, while North is now a staple feature for the Lions having starred in their 2013 series win in Australia.

Gatland’s group, who will be captained by Wales flanker Sam Warburton, will kick off their 10-match trip against the New Zealand Provincial Barbarians in Whangarei on June 3, with the Blues, Crusaders, Highlanders, Maori All Blacks and Chiefs all on their agenda before the first Test three weeks later.

Lions squad: Backs: Dan Biggar, Elliot Daly, Jonathan Davies, Owen Farrell, Leigh Halfpenny, Robbie Henshaw, Stuart Hogg, Jonathan Joseph, Conor Murray, George North, Jack Nowell, Jared Payne, Jonathan Sexton, Tommy Seymour, Ben Te’o, Antony Watson, Rhys Webb, Liam Williams, Ben Youngs; Forwards: Rory Best, Dan Cole, Taulupe Faletau, Tadhg Furlong, Jamie George, Iain Henderson, Maro Itoje, Alun Wyn Jones, George Kruis, Courtney Lawes, Joe Marler, Jack McGrath, Ross Moriarty, Sean O’Brien, Peter O’Mahony, Ken Owens, Kyle Sinckler, CJ Stander, Justin Tipuric, Mako Vunipola, Billy Vunipola, Sam Warburton (c).