Inspectors praised Kings Pre-School, in Boughton Green Road, Kingsthorpe, for teaching its "extremely confident" children "a sense of well-being and belonging".

Their report, following an inspection in March, applauded the "highly effective" staff who "enjoy spending time with the children".

Jane Codner, manager of Kings Pre-School, said: "We've very excited to earn our 'outstanding' rating and it's down to a fabulous team effort from everyone here.

"It's about going above and beyond what's required and developing the kids as individuals. For example, one little boy here likes fishes, so we got a fish tank and he helps us feed and care for them.

"We also work closely with All Saints CE Primary School next door so everyone is confident to start there when they leave."

Kings Pre-School earned a 'good' rating in their last inspection in 2013.

Following their inspection in March, inspectors said: "Children are extremely confident in the pre-school and they behave very well.

"They are provided with an exciting range of activities that captures their attention and staff treat children with respect. This results in children being busy and interested and developing a sense of well-being and belonging.

"Parents speak very highly of the pre-school staff and say how approachable and supportive they are. Parents comment on the progress their children are making, particularly in their self-confidence and independence."

Staff at a care home near the centre of Northampton are celebrating after being ranked among the top one per cent in the UK.

Burlington Court, which is managed by Rochmills Group, has announced it has achieved an ‘outstanding’ Care Quality Commission (CQC) report after an inspection carried out in February.

Responsible individual for Rochmills Group, Tej Sehmi, said: "We are over the moon with the recent findings of CQC which is great news for our residents, great news for their families and great news for our staff.”

“I am so proud of our team, who work tirelessly and am very pleased that this has been recognised.

"We aim to provide the best care possible and will always continue to look to improve where we can.

Burlington Court on Roseholme Road, Abington, was rated outstanding in three categories out of five in the report for being "caring", "responsive" and "well-led".

The report also contains a number of positive remarks from elderly people living there.

Inspectors added: "People living at Burlington Court had an enhanced sense of well-being and quality of life because staff worked passionately to provide people

with meaningful experiences” and “Staff were empowered to work creatively to develop positive therapeutic relationships with people.”

The rating means the care home, registered for 102 beds, now ranks amongst the top one per cent of establishments in the country.

The inspection, which took place on February 21 and 22, was unannounced.

Yesterday the Chronicle & Echo revealed that the founder of the religious movement here in Northampton, Noel Stanton, had been the subject of sexual, financial and spiritual abuse allegations.

The astonishing admissions were made by the current Jesus Army leader Mick Paine, during the organisation's annual conference in April.

He said: “The apostolic group of the Jesus Fellowship church have in recent months, from December 2016, received new allegations from members of our church concerning Noel Stanton – senior pastor between 1957 and 2009.

“The allegations are of financial abuse of individuals and spiritual and sexual abuse. We are not in receipt of all the facts, but we are seeking to move forward in bringing in a new culture that is distinct from the past."

Mr Stanton - a man known for his extravagant sermons often accused of running the Jesus Army like a "cult" - died in 2009 with hundreds lining the streets to pay him respects.

Further investigation by the Chron revealed that Northamptonshire Police looked into two sexual abuse allegations against Mr Stanton as far back as 2015, both of which were later dropped.

A spokesman for the Jesus Army confirmed that the allegations Mick Paine talked of in his speech to the Jesus Army conference were "new allegations", in addition to those in 2015.

It is not clear whether those new allegations have been passed onto police after conflicting statements were issued to the Chron by the Jesus Army and the police.

The spokesman for the Jesus Army said: "We are up to date with referrals and all allegations we are aware of have been notified to the police."

But a Northamptonshire Police spokesman said the force had not received any claims against Mr Stanton since early 2015.

The Chron had asked the Jesus Army for clarification, in particular as Mr Haines stated later on in his speech that these latest matters "were referred to the police in December 2016, who [...] decided that there is no further action for them to take."

The exact nature of the December 2016 sexual, physical and spiritual allegations were not revealed.

Though Mr Stanton is dead and cannot face criminal prosecution, the police have power to refer matters over to the Northamptonshire Children's Safeguarding Board (NSCB) for public review if the force deems it worthy of further investigation.

A spokesman for the NSCB did not discount the possibility of an inquiry into the Jesus Army at a later stage - though currently a number of further prosecutions against Jesus Army members are expected in the coming months.

He said: “We work closely with Northamptonshire Police and are aware of the comprehensive investigation they carried out into the Jesus Fellowship, including allegations involving Noel Stanton.

"However, any review carried out by the Northamptonshire Safeguarding Children Board would require a referral to us in the first instance and that has not has happened.

“We are not making any assumptions at this point in time as to whether or not there is any role for the NSCB here but we will watch developments with interest.”

Tickets are on sale for Dreadzone who are back in the region in December to headline the Roadmender in Northampton.

The band, now in their third decade together, released Dread Times earlier this year.

One of the most exciting and powerful live bands to emerge from the post-rave scene, their old skool dread sound comes bubbling to the surface on the new album and it digs deeper into their dub and reggae roots while still keeping the beats fresh and the textures electronic.

Alongside core members Greg Dread, who produced the record, Leo Williams, Chris Compton, reggae vocalist Earl 16 and MC Spee, Dread Times introduces younger blood into the mix with newest member Bazil bringing an edge to the sonic process and Greg’s son Marlon expanding the musical range further.

Don Letts returns with lyrical contributions, as does Lena Cullen on vocals for one track, with 90s ragga duo Louchie Lou and Michie One guesting on another.

Since their inception in 1993 Dreadzone have steadily been refining and perfecting their own take on dub.

They headline the Roadmender on Thursday, December 14.

Tickets are on sale now and cost £16,50 before fees via www.theroadmender.com

Five Stagecoach buses carrying the words “ O' mankind, spread peace and feed people”, have been in circulation around Northampton for the past week.

The words, said to have been spoke by the Islam prophet Muhammad, are part of the central teachings of the faith and have been formed into banners across the country as part a national campaign by the As-Siraat group.

Local co-ordinator Yousuf Miah said the aim of the banners are to inspire Muslims of all ages to make a "positive contribution to the town".

"We have had tremendous feedback so far," he said. "It has taken a lot of Muslims by surprise.

"There have been a few that have said 'what the hell is going on here', but on the whole they have been positive."

The campaign by As-Siraat is in its sixth year, but this is the first time it has appeared in Northampton.

Mr Miah said the banners here have been prompted by recent news stories surrounding the Islamic faith, not least the recent terror attack on Parliament carried out by a Muslim fundamentalist.

“Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation about Islam, which has led to a climate of fear," added Mr Miah, a 40-year-old planning consultant from Abington.

"The true message of Islam is often lost.

"This campaign is about being proactive, and promoting a positive message, conveying the true teachings of Islam in our communities.

"The work of As-Siraat as an organisation is to break down barriers and engage with people.”

Kingsthorpe bowler Connor Cinato has qualified for the World Bowls Tour International which will be held in March next year.

Cinato travelled to Poole in Dorset last weekend for the qualifying event, and won it to book his place in the World Bowls finals which will be held in Blackpool.

The qualifying event was played in two sets of seven ends, for each round, plus a tie-break if necessary.

After a bye in the first round, Cinato beat Neil Collett of Clarrie Dunbar IBC from Somerset (8-3, 4-4) and in the third round he saw off Swindon’s Stephen Remington (5-5, 6-4).

In the quarter-final, Cinato outclassed Gavin Rees of Swansea IBC (12-1, 11-2) before seeing off Darren Nutman of Weymouth (9-4, 8-5).

That set up a final against Wales international Damien Doubler, and it was a very tight match that saw Cinato claim the victory on a tie-break (4-3, 4-6, 2-1).

Northants name team to face Oxfordshire

THE following players have been selected to represent Northants men in their friendly against Oxfordshire at South Oxford BC in Oxford next Tuesday (2pm).

Rink 1: A.N. Other, Desborough Town BC/Dave Gilman, Desborough Town BC/Peter Mellor,Desborough Town BC/John Haines, Desborough Town BC

Rink 2: Peter Hoad, Northampton Express BC/Paul Shrimpton, Woodford-cum-Membris BC/Brian Hunt, Burton Latimer Town BC/Richard Somerton, Brackley & District BC

Rink 3: Peter Court, Brackley & District BC/David Francis, Bugbrooke BC/Robin Frost, Bugbrooke BC/Michael Moulton, Heyford BC

Rink 4: Stuart Lowe, Brackley & District BC/John Chester, Kettering Lodge BC/Tony Warren, Northampton Express BC/Geoff Hayter, Bugbrooke BC

Rink 5: Laurie Harrison, Earls Barton BC/Ken Court, Brackley & District BC/Geoff Hunt, Wellingborough BC/Terry James, Thrapston BC

Rink 6: Colin Barnes, Abington/Don Scott, Brackley & District BC/Dave Williamson, Northampton BBOB BC/George Willmott, Irchester BC

Reserves: Bill Humphries, Woodford-cum-Membris BC

Walker wins one of two for England

NORTHAMPTON bowler Jamie Walker was part of the England team that travelled to Australia for a three-day international at Broadbeach BC.

The event was staged as a test in the lead up to Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, and the home side enjoyed a comprehensive 83-33 victory overall.

Walker was involved in two triples matches, winning one and losing one.

First up he teamed up with Andy Knapper and Robert Paxton and they lost to Ray Pearse, Corey Wedlock and Aaron Sherriff 20-12.

In the second match, Walker was partnered by Louis Ridout and Sam Tolchard and they beat Pearse, Brett Wilkie and Scott Thulborn 20-18.

Bowls England performance director John Bell said: “We were caught cold by an outstanding Australian team.

“It was not ideal having to play our Test Series so early in our visit but it was still a very valuable exercise.

“Our squad has benefitted from experiencing the playing conditions in a high pressure situation, and are now certainly under no illusions about the high quality of opposition to be faced at world level.”

County select squad for their League clash

THE following players have been selected to play for Northants Ladies in their Middle England League match against Cambridgeshire at Rushden Town BC next Thursday (May 18, 1.30pm).

This fixture will be the first of six matches in the Middle England League.

Rink 1: Linda Warren, Abbey Park BC/Marlene Armitage, Wellingborough BC/Ann-Marie Waters, Roade BC/Sharon Tansley, Kingsthorpe BC

Rink 2: Julie Spreadbury, Heyford BC/Chris Cooper, Burton Latimer Town BC/Anita Petrucci, Abington BC/Brenda Bishop, Kingsthorpe BC

Rink 3: Abby Woodward, Desborough Town BC/Velda Cooper, Irchester BC/Val Betts, Higham Ferrers Town BC/Barbara Haseldine, Finedon Town BC

Rink 4: Maggie Edwards, Kingsthorpe BC/Pat Starsmore, Kettering Lodge BC/Di Brumwell, Kingsthorpe BC/Hilary Sharpe, Kingsthorpe BC

Rink 5: Celia Morris, Kingsthorpe BC/Elaine Munton, Northampton Whyte Melville BC/Alison Dring, Burton Latimer Town BC/Yvonne McKee, Kingsthorpe BC

Rink 6: Joyce George, Wellingborough BC/Janet Ashby, Northampton West End BC/Margaret McGillivray, Desborough Town BC/Pat Bodily, Northampton Whyte Melville BC

Travelling Reserves: Wilma Walker, Corby Forest BC/Nancy Tebbutt, Thrapston BC/Elaine Urquhart, Brackley & District BC

Northants stage trial for the Middleton Cup

NORTHANTS Men staged a Middleton Cup Trial on Saturday at Kettering Lodge BC, under the control of team manager Vernon Gearey of Kingsthorpe BC.

There were 28 potential players in attendance, including several new faces, including Andy Burrows of Oundle BC, David Iddles of Kingsthorpe BC, Michael Moulton of Heyford BC, Will and Danny Walker, Northampton West End BC, Connor Rollings, Kettering Lodge BC, and Chris Gray of Burton Latimer Town BC.

Two sessions were held on three rinks, enabling Gearey and his assistants to gauge the current standard of play of all those in attendance over at least 10 ends of bowls.

Despite the very cold conditions, the green bowled very well and the observers were all agreed that the standard of play was very high.

Following the trial, Gearey was faced with selecting an MC Team to play a practice match against Oxfordshire on Saturday at Kingsthorpe BC (2pm).

The team he selected is as follows:

Rink 1: Adam Pitfield, Burton Latimer Town BC/Daniel Height, Thrapston BC/Peter Ward, Desborough Town BC/Andrew Manton, Kingsthorpe BC

Rink 2: Keith Height, Thrapston BC/Ashley Linnell, Northampton West End BC/Alan Ashby, Northampton West End BC/Darren Childs, Northampton West End BC

Rink 3: David Love, Wellingborough BC/David Walker, Northampton West End BC/Richard Lemon, Northampton Express BC/Mark Tompkins, Kingsthorpe BC

Rink 4: Adam Brown, Abington BC/Jonathan Brown, Abington BC/Will Walker, Northampton West End BC/Roger Tansley, Kingsthorpe BC

Rink 5: Danny Walker, Northampton West End BC/Shaun Marriott, Northampton West End BC/Connor Cinato, Kettering Midland Band BC/Jamie Walker, Northampton West End BC

Rink 6: Curtis Johnson, Wellingborough BC/Connor Rollings, Kettering Lodge BC/John Freerman, Abington BC/Jim McKee, Kingsthorpe BC

Travelling Reserves: Tony O’Leary, Abington BC/Martin Gearey, Kingsthorpe BC/Andrew Burrows, Oundle BC/David Iddles, Kingsthorpe BC

Non-travelling Reserves: Phil Reeve, Abington BC/Michael Moulton, Heyford BC/Chris Gray, Burton Latimer Town BC

Ladies name team for battle with Berkshire

NORTHANTS Ladies have named the following team for their friendly against Berkshire at Irchester BC on Friday (May 12, 1.30pm).

Rink 1: Celia Morris, Kingsthorpe BC/Audrey Height, Kettering Lodge BC/Di Brumwell, Kingsthorpe BC/Hilary Sharpe, Kingsthorpe BC

Rink 2: Chris Cooper, Burton Latimer Town BC/Trish Basford, Geddington & Newton BC/Emma Gray, Burton Latimer Town BC/Sharon Hall, Burton Latimer Town BC

Rink 3: Janet Ashby, Northampton West End BC/Brenda Bishop, Kingsthorpe BC/Alison Dribng, Burton Latimer Town BC/Yvonne McKee, Kingsthorpe BC

Rink 4: Sandra Mawson, Northampton Whyte Melville BC/Jill Welch, Heyford BC/Pat Bodily, Northampton Whyte Melville BC/Barbara Haseldine, Finedon Town BC

Rink 5: Margaret Watts, Desborough Town BC/Jeannie Flippance, Desborough Town BC/Katie Smith, Desborough Town BC/Rebecca Wigfield, Desborough Town BC

Rink 6: Abby Woodward, Desborough Town BC/Michelle Harris, Kingsthorpe BC/Ann-Marie Waters, Roade BC/Tina Broderick, Burton Latimer Town BC

Reserves: Linda Warren, Abbey Park BC/Joyce George, Wellingborough BC/Pat Starsmore, Kettering Lodge BC

Daventry ready to host club open days

DAVENTRY Bowls Club is holding open days this Saturday and Sunday (May 13 & 14) from 1pm on both days.

All are welcome to go along to the club, which is situated at Stefan Hill Sports Club on Western Avenue in Daventry to try their hand at the sport of bowls.

There will be no charge, and all equipment will be made available, all that is asked is that flat soled shoes, like trainers, are worn, if normal bowling shoes are not available.

People with disabilities are most welcome, and there is disability access to the green.

Coaching and assistance from club members will be in place, and bar facilities and refreshments available.

Club fixtures

FIXTURES and news from the area’s clubs.

Brackley BC: May 15 - club plays away to Kingsthorpe BC in the men’s Triples League at 6.30pm.

May 17 - Members visit Chandos Park BC, Bucks., for a ladies match at 2.30pm.

Bugbrooke BC: May 13 - Harpole BC visits for a mixed match at 2.30pm.

May 17 - Members visit Woodford-cum-Membris BC for a mixed match at 6.30pm.

Cogenhoe BC: May 13 - Irchester BC visits for a mixed match at 2.30pm.

May 14 - St Crispin BC visits for a mixed match at 2.30pm.

May 15 - Club plays away to Kislingbury BC in the men’s Triples League at 6.30pm.

May 16 - Mears Ashby RBL BC visits for a mixed match at 2.30pm.

Daventry Town BC: May 15 - A Team plays Abington BC at home in the men’s Triples League at 6.30pm.

May 15 - B Team plays Byfield BC away in the men’s Triples League at 6.30pm.

Harpole BC: May 13 - Members visit Bugbrooke BC for a mixed match at 2.30pm.

May 15 - A Team at home to Heyford BC in the men’s Triples League at 6.30pm.

May 15 - B Team away to Northampton Express BC in the men’s Triples League at 6.30pm.

May 16 - Members visit Kislingbury BC for a mixed match at 2.30pm.

Heyford BC: May 14 - Kingsthorpe BC visits for a mixed match at 2.30pm.

May 15 - Club plays away at Heyford BC in the men’s Triples League at 6.30pm.

Kingsthorpe BC: May 13 - Members visit Northampton Express BC for a men’s match at 2.0pm.

May 13 - Club hosts a MC Trial match between Northamptonshire & Oxfordshire at 2pm.

May 14 - Members visit Heyford BC for a mixed match at 2.30pm.

Kislingbury BC: May 13 - Members visit Rugby Thornfield BC for a men’s match at 2pm.

May 13 - Desborough Town BC visits for a ladies match at 2.30pm.

May 16 - Roade BC visits for a ladies match at 6.30pm.

May 16: Harpole BC visits for a mixed match at 2pm.

Northampton Express BC: May 15 - A Team at home to Earls Barton BC in the men’s Triples League at 6.30pm.

May 15 - B Team away to Harpole BC in the men’s Triples League at 6.30pm.

Whyte Melville BC: May 13 - Members visit Desborough Town BC for a men’s match at 2pm.

May 14 - Carlsberg BC visits for a mixed match at 2pm.

May 15 - A Team away to Abington in the men’s Triples league at 6.30pm.

May 15 - B Team at home to Wootton Grange BC in the men’s Triples League at 6.30pm.

Roade BC: May 13 - Chandos Park BC, Bucks, visits for a men’s match at 2pm.

May 14 - Club hosts the BN Women’s Fours Quarter Finals & Semi-Finals at 9.30am.

May 15: Club plays away at St Crispin BC in the men’s Triples League at 6.30pm.

May 16 - Members visit Kislingbury BC for a ladies match at 6.30pm.

St Crispin BC: May 13 - Members visit Newport Pagnell BC for a ladies match at 2.30pm.

May 13 - Members visit Rushden Town BC for a men’s match at 2pm.

May 15 - A Team home to Roade BC in the men’s Triples League at 6.30pm.

May 15 - B Team away to West Haddon BC in the men’s Triples League at 6.30pm.

May 17 - Northampton Whyte Melville BC visits for a ladies match at 6.30pm.

West Haddon BC: May 14 - Golden Horse BC visits for a mixed match at 2.30pm.

May 15 - Club plays St Crispin BC at home in the men’s Triples League at 6.30pm.

May 17 - Oakfield BC visits for a ladies match at 2pm.

Wootton Grange BC: May 15 - A Team at home to Northampton West End BC in the men’s Triples League at 6.30pm.

May 15 - B Team away to Northampton Whyte Melville BC in the men’s Triples League at 6.30pm.

An angling lifetime of waiting finally ended for Vince Battams when he not only landed his first 20lb carp – but had it from a water he has spent years helping nurture back to health!

Turning the scales to 23-1 it was a good fish in its own right...but coming from Abington Park Lake – the subject of so much restoration work following prolonged problems and abuse – it has to be the equivalent of a 30 from many other waters!

He had the fish on a pop-up boilie, and said: “It was like all my birthdays come at once – I was dancing round like Zebedee on speed.”

STANWICK’s Elsons was on fire this week with Vlad Vladislav leading the way with a 40-2 PB as Dave Partridge – also on a PB – netted a 32-12 mirror and Alex Osborne took five from 20lb to 28-2: all in a week when the venue produced a flush of other 20s.

ON the carp match scene results were all over the place – which is more than can be said for the fish which, on most waters, seemed to be shoaled up in small groups leading to a few good weights and a lot of blanks or near blanks.

WHITE Hart Flore, Tofts: Tom Griffiths 104lb, Dave Cleaver 101lb, Dave Griffiths 93lb.

ROYAL Oak, Packington: Grant Merritt 81-4, Cliff Skyrme 33-12, Wayne Sharman 31-10.

GLEBE, Tofts: Dave Haddon 67-3, Russ Lay Jnr 45-8, Dave Jones 44-4.

WHITE Hart Flore Oldies, Dog Lane: Trevor Griffiths 62-8, Tom Griffiths 38-10, Glen Tilson 29lb.

FINEDON, Waterloo Farm: Steve Amos 50-5, Paul Lafflin 44-3, Bill Boyne 39-6.

FLORE & Brockhall, Barby Mill: Brian Johnson 32lb, Steve Smith 23lb, Fred Johnson 20lb.

CASTLE spring league round, Canons: Jeff Rice 21-13, Bob Spencer 19-14, Geoff Lewis 9-12.

‘ASHBY opens: Wed., Brickyard, Mick Hewlett 22-8, Courtney Hewlett 18-12, Mick Boddilly 16-14; Sat., Brickyard, Boddilly 31-12, Darren Driver 28-8, Chris Garratt 24-8; Sun., Grendon, Bob Reed 35-12, M Hewlett 22-14, Garratt 20-6.

RYSONS open: Ian Smith 23-10, Derek Pettit 12-9, Carl Yeowl 10lb.

WILLOW Brook open: Pete Hawley 21-3, Andy Webster 14-14, Chris Howard 14-3.

TOWCESTER, Silverlake: Mick Goodridge 18-12 (one carp), Gerald Green 14-4, Kevin Nightingale 10-2.

ABINGTON, ‘Ashby Brickyard: Norman Westbrook 13-1, Andy Weatherly 9-7, Russ Coleman 6-7. Septuagenarian Mick Crane had the rest in stitches (but thankfully managed to avoid ending up in casualty) by falling off his collapsing box no fewer than three times during the match...

Northampton’s Claire Lindsay was crowned County Ladies champion for the first time after beating Ellie Darnell (Wellingborough) 2&1 in the final at Northants County GC.

The five-handicapper progressed to the showpiece match after outplaying Ashleigh Critchley in the quarter-finals, and defeating former champion Mary MacLaren (Wellingborough) on the 18th hole in the last four.

Darnell, who qualified from the strokeplay competition as the eighth seed, showed plenty of bottle in the knockout stages as she defeated two home club members, Hattie Billson and Karen Lobb.

With fellow teenager Billson making it through as the top seed with a 36-hole total of 165, Darnell edged a tight last eight contest on the first extra hole, before defeating former winner Lobb down the last.

In the Swannell Salver, which is contested by the players who finished ninth to 16th in the strokeplay standings, Northampton enjoyed another success over Wellingborough as Alison Irvine beat Carol Gibbs 4&3 in the final.

Sky TV Game Changers

Young local golfers Chelsey Sharp, Leah Ribano and Euan Cadle provided star performances on Sky TV kids show Game Changers last week as they formed part of a special feature on British Junior Golf Tour.

The trio, who were filmed whilst playing in the IMG World Championship qualifier at Park Hill GC before Easter, all provided links to camera for the five-minute package.

The popular programme, which was broadcast on Sky One and Sky Mix on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning, included golfers of all ages and abilities talking about their experiences on British Junior Golf Tour.

Kettering’s Sharp, who celebrates her 12th birthday this week, Northampton’s Ribano, who qualified for the World Finals in San Diego, and Cadle (Staverton) explained why the non-profit making Tour is fun to play in.

The next British Junior Golf Tour event, at Cherwell Edge GC on Tuesday, May 30 is also the opening competition on the 2017 NGL Junior Order of Merit.

With the 18-hole players having the added incentive of trying to win a round of golf with Tour pro Gary Boyd, anyone interested in taking part is advised to visit www.juniorgolftour.co.uk.

NGL Junior League

Peterborough Milton have three teams entered into the NGL Junior League this summer as they look to match their 2016 achievement of getting all three sides into the semi-finals.

Kettering, Northampton and Northants County, who are hosting a SJGT event this weekend, and 2015 champions Collingtree Park have all put two sides into the competition. With four groups of four teams, compromising of four boys or girls, playing matches against the others, Wellingborough, Rushden, Staverton Park, Priors Hall and Kingsthorpe have also entered the League.

NGL Hollingsworth Trophy

Group A

The race to the semi-finals was thrown wide open by Oundle after they bagged a 3-2 victory at previously-unbeaten Northants County.

Oundle’s success was based on battling performances in the opening two games as Chris Hankins and Barry Watts took the first tie on the 18th, before Charles Underwood and Phillip Churchward did likewise in the next match.

Although the hosts responded with two good wins, it wasn’t quite enough as Chris Dix and Andrew Ireson secured the away triumph with an emphatic victory.

With all teams still in with a chance of qualifying, Daventry’s Chris Eveleigh 
and Dave Musker grabbed 
the decisive point on the 18th in their team’s home clash with Northampton as they won a tight contest by one point.

James Berry and Paul Moriarty (5&3) and Chris Poolton and Kevin Tarbox (3&1) bagged the other home points.

Group B

The search for a Group B away victory goes on after Stoke Albany beat Wellingborough 4-1.

The first and third ties saw comfortable home wins, but Peter Davis and Joe Shocklidge were taken the distance before securing a Stoke victory. Stephen Griffin and Graham Dean were successful for the home side, before Borough prevented a whitewash thanks to Nick Clansey and Chris Smith.

Hollingsworth Trophy

Group C

Brampton Heath gave themselves some hope of catching unbeaten leaders Peterborough Milton with a 4-1 home success against Priors Hall.

Although Paul Briggs and Steve Shiells (5&3) took the first point for the away side, Brampton took control with wins from Andrew Sewell and Gary McAllister (4&3) and Jack Brown and Elliott Metcalfe (3&2).

With both the last two games going the distance, the hosts wasted no time in making sure of the win as Simon Clarke and Mark Halliday took game four, before Alan Nicholl and Matt Smith did likewise in the final game.

Milton, who edged a tight home contest with Brampton at the start of the month, remain two points clear after defeating Overstone Park 4-1. All the damage was done early on as Peterborough took the opening three ties before reaching the 16th tee. Bob Duthie and Scott O’Connor added another point for the hosts, before Overstone’s Richard Dalton and Ryan Genner grabbed a consolation.

Group D

Kettering moved a step closer to qualifying for the semi-finals as they defeated Collingtree Park 4-1 in an extraordinary home match.

With the visitors in confident mood after a 3-2 victory over Rushden the previous week, Kettering looked set for a stiff test after Andy Castell and Ray Connolly took the opening tie 6&5.

But Marcel Aarts and Reece Dodd eased any home nerves with a 8&7 thumping in game two, before Kettering went on to complete a comprehensive victory thanks to three more big wins in the remaining ties.

Kings Heath ABC boxers Ben Vaughan and Eithan James secured their spot in this year’s Youth Commonwealth Games in the Bahamas after enduring a very tough selection process.

It included three separate camps and saw boxers compete against the best fighters and clubs from around the country.

Vaughan (64kg) and James (54kg), who are both reigning national champions, with James also winning and retaining the GB title, kept up their outstanding form throughout the two-months camps.

And after a tense wait, they were finally notified by ABA England last week, and are now part of a small but very select national team.

Kings Heath are the only club in the country to have two representatives in this highly prestigious tournament.

“This is a fantastic achievement for Ben and Eithan,” said Kings Heath head coach Arthur Daly.

“It is not only great for them but the club and the team behind both boxers.

“Ultimately, we were optimistic, but I was concerned that we were continually asking for more and more from them.

“But champions produce when it matters, and the feedback was always very positive from the England setup.”

Multi-titled James, a tall, rangy stylist and southpaw Vaughan, who holds an equally impressive championship record, now enters a very challenging two-month preparation.

“We have put a programme together which will give them every opportunity of medalling,” Daly said.

“England also have a comprehensive, demanding schedule, which takes in two weeks in Miami so they can acclimatise for the tournament, so nothing will be left to chance by either the 
boxers, the club or the country.

“Both of these lads are strong, single-minded winners. They work hard, listen and this is an opportunity for both of them to excel.

“There is no reason why, with their skill base and current form, that both cannot be successful and that is our common aim.

“We all love challenges and this is part of the game, but at the very highest level.”

Meanwhile, Kings Heath boxer Bobby Button reached the last eight of the Schoolboy Championships with a fine points win over Reece Metcalfe (Scarborough) and boxes again this Saturday in Liverpool.

Fail brothers all make top 10 in amateur rankings

Far Cotton coach John Daly had a smile on his face after reading last week’s Boxing News, writes MATTHEW BOZEAT.

The English amateur rankings were published – and the three Fail brothers are all in the top 10.

Ben Fail is at No 4 at middleweight after reaching the semi finals of the England Boxing Elite championships, while twin Carl is ranked No 3 at welterweight, four places above younger brother Aaron.

Carl won the Elite championships and Great Britain gold last year, while Aaron reached the last eight of the Elites.

Daly trains the brothers at his gym on Towcester Road and said: “I’ve been reading about Northampton boxers in Boxing News for years and to see three of our boxers in the top 10 is a great achievement.

“I set up the club in 2004 and this has to be one of my proudest moments.

“I remember when the twins first came to the gym wanting to knock lumps out of each other and I’ve watched them get better and better by working hard in the gym, day and night.

“The hard work is paying off.

“It’s lovely to see them doing well.

“They aren’t just brothers, they are best friends as well and whenever they get together, they talk tactics and try to help each other out.”

Last weekend saw the first round of the British Athletics League Division Three take place in Yeovil, where the Rugby & Northampton men delivered a fine performance to finish second out of the eight competing teams.

On the track, Adam Wright enjoyed senior success with victory in the 1500 metres, crossing the line in a time of 4:01.92, and also recorded second in the 800m in a time of 1:54.92. Kyle Ennis mirrored the achievement in the sprints, winning the 200m in 21.15 and finishing runner-up over 100m (10.63).

Robert Male earned a new personal best with 8:55.39 in the 3000m, which secured second place, and Clinton Osoba-George (22.58) was second in the 200m B. Joshua Faulds registered a PB too, with a time of 49.81 enough for first place in the 400m.

The track success was rounded off in the relays, where 43.32 secured second in the 4x100m, while the 4x400 team went one better, triumphing in 3:22.69.

In the field, Josh Arimoro set a shot put PB, with his effort of 11.83 metres securing top spot in the B string, and 34.52m in the discus sealed second place. Craig Murch was dominant in the hammer, throwing 65.20m to win the event by just short of 12 metres. Leon Bailey rounded off a successful day, winning the javelin with a throw of 54.42m.

Also taking place on Sunday was the first round of the UK Women’s Athletics League Division Three, where six teams competed in excellent conditions under a cloudless sky in Wigan. R&N had a number of gaps due to the non-availability of several key athletes but, despite these challenges, there were some excellent performances as the team secured fifth place.

The club performed particularly well in the field and the day started well with a dominant win for Hayley Murray in the hammer, throwing a distance of 54.84m. This feat was matched by Eleanor Broome, who took the long jump with a leap of 5.77m.

There was a strong showing by Kiona McLennon, who took a pair of third places, in the shot put (11.86m) and discus (33.91m). Claire O’Reilly, returning to club competition after a break, went one better in the triple jump, finishing second with a distance of 10.41m.

There was an excellent R&N debut for Annabel Pask, who was a close third in the Javelin (35.05m) and second in the high jump with 1.60m. In the B string field events, there were second places for Tia Clues in the long jump (4.63m) and javelin (27.79m). Rhoda Woller continued her progress in the shot put with second place and a PB of 10.71.

On the track there was fierce competition and an excellent 4x100m relay, where the R&N quartet of Emma Wiltshire, Ellena Ruddock, Milan Clues and Eleanor Broome were narrowly beaten into second place by a fast-finishing Liverpool Harriers squad, clocking 49.52 seconds.

There was a significant PB for Katie Langton in the 400m, taking almost five seconds off her previous best with 60.25, before running a 61.2 split in the anchor leg of the 4x400m relay. Annabel Pask added to her exploits in the field with a strong run of 15.4 in a high quality 100m hurdles.

Last weekend, the first race in the 2017 East Midlands Grand Prix Road Race Series took place at the Silverstone circuit, and the R&N ladies took victory in both the Senior and Veteran races over the two-lap, 10-kilometre course.

Leading home the club was Vicky Nealon with a superb time of 38:34, finishing in third place after a battle with club-mate Amy Sarkies, who claimed fourth spot - although that was enough to win the over-35 category in 38:55. Liz Robinson secured the seniors’ success, coming home 20th in 43:36.

Along with Sarkies, the winning veteran team comprised of Zoe Shepherd (21st, fifth F35) in 43:39 and Judith Rose (37th, fifth F40) in 45:51. In the over-50 competition, Helen Jones clinched third place with 46:19.

Matthew Chronicle was the first athlete home for R&N in the Men’s race with the 16-year-old recording 35:20, which put him 14th overall and first in the U20. The event also incorporated the Northants County 10k Championships, where Chronicle took gold in his age group.

Daniel Williams was the next man over the line - a time of 36:37 securing 27th - while veteran Mike Andrews was just 12 seconds behind (32nd, seventh M40). Completing the senior mens’ team, which finished fourth, was Vince Carroll in 39:14 (15th M45).

Just two seconds adrift was Terry Egan, who not only claimed third in the M55 category, but also came away with two County medals. A gold in the individual event, and a bronze along with Chronicle and Carroll for the Mens team.

Dave O’Leary won a silver in the M50 NAA Champs when he was timed at 39:52, and this closed out the veteran team that finished fifth on the night.

There were two more County medal winners in the ladies’ section, with Alison McMurtrie’s effort of 48:45 earning third in the F40 event, and Krasimira Raykova with 53:29 for second in the F45.

Silson AC’s Silverstone 10k is a big success

Last Tuesday saw hordes of people flock to Silverstone for the annual Silverstone Grand Prix 10K Race.

Thankfully the weather was kind and the rain held off providing perfect race conditions.

The event, organised by Silson AC, is now in its 34th year and continues to draw in large numbers, with this year seeing 1,234 finishers including 16 wheelchair athletes.

Silson AC have been overwhelmed by the feedback which they have received from competitors and their supporters alike. Therefore, Silson AC would like to once again like to thank everyone who made this year’s event a success.

In other Silson AC news this week, Elaine Evans, Jake Morris (JM11-14), Lauren Thomas (JW11-14) and Neave Wray all claimed new personal bests at the Buckingham parkrun on Saturday.

Jake Morris then went on to gain another PB the following day at the Junior Buckingham parkrun, where he was also the first runner home.

Paul Rose completed Marathon number 101 on Sunday at the Shakespeare Marathon, and he was delighted with his time of 3:58.

His daughter, Chelsey Rose, completed the half Marathon in 2:02.

Ella Darby showed her abilities as a young athlete are continuing to go from strength to strength when she gained a new junior parkrun PB (of 7:57) last weekend.

Then on Sunday she gained four PBs and a bronze medal at the Oxford City Athletics Quad Kids event. She won bronze for her efforts in the U11 girls’ category (she is only 9): 75m (11.6 sec), 600m (2 mins exactly), long jump (3.23 metres) and Vortex (19.39 metres).

Silson’s Steve Lincoln, took on the challenge of the Cambridge Wings for Life event, to raise money to keep the Northants DISC (Disability Inclusive Sports Club) running. Lincoln managed an amazing 35.9km before being ‘caught’ by the car!

Williams gets her track season off a to a flyer

Northampton runner Emily Williams opened her seasons by securing the English Schools qualification time over 1500m at the Watford Open meeting.

Williams, a bottom year Intermediate girl, powered her way to her second fastest time ever with 4:34.57.

Williams, who runs for Kettering Town Harriers, continued her fine form by claiming an 800m and 400m U17 Women double in the opening Midland Senior League fixture hosted by Daventry AC.

A young Harriers team eventually finished seventh in the meeting, but Williams, who attends Northampton School for Girls, provided one of the highlights by comfortably winning the 800m in 2:17.2, another English Schools qualification time and then returning 90 minutes later to take the 400m in 59.2.

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Police have this morning confirmed a 50-year-old man died following a road traffic collision in Northamptonshire yesterday morning.

The local man was driving a blue Ford Focus when the collision with a red and white Scania LGV at the junction of the A43 and Geddington Road took place at about 7.15am on Thursday (May 11).

The road was closed until late yesterday afternoon while police were at the scene.

Officers investigating the collision would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed it or who may have any information regarding it.

Anyone with information or who witnessed the collision can contact the Drivewatch Hotline on 0800 174615.

It was a good day for Theresa May whose reported row with Philip Hammond was completely overshadowed by Labour’s leaked manifesto.

But it was a bad day for the poor cameraman whose foot was run over by a car carrying Jeremy Corbyn to the meeting where the manifesto was supposed to be agreed.

Going up / Going Down

Gordon Brown enjoyed a return to the political spotlight with a typically robust speech on the future of engineering in Britain.

But the speech might not have gone down well with Labour’s leadership, given Mr Brown conspicuously failed to mention Jeremy Corbyn during his 25-minute oration.

Celeb-watch

National treasure Sir Ian McKellen is backing Labour’s Wes Streeting in Ilford North. “I don’t normally get involved in politics, although I have voted, I think, in every election that I’ve been able to,” he said.

Gaffe of the day

It emerged Paul White, the Conservative candidate in Burnley, has taken a holiday to Turkey in the middle of the election campaign

Tweet of the day

That time @theresa_may came to my front door but I was too scared to answer - David Bryan filmed himself hiding from the door-knocking prime minister.

Quote of the day

“[Jeremy Corbyn] would have surrendered Gibraltar to the Spanish, and indeed the Falkands to Australia.” - Ukip’s Paul Nuttall (he meant Argentina).

PR stunt of the day

Not content with kissing babies, Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron let a boy he met in Cardiff sit at the wheel of the party’s battle bus.

Blast from the past

Former prime minister David Cameron emerged from his shed to weigh into the fox-hunting debate saying he thought the ban was “a mistake”.

A man has been locked up for eight years for sexual assaults against an elderly woman in Northamptonshire as well as on other victims elsewhere in the country.

Following an investigation by Thames Valley Police, a man has been sent to jail for eight years for sexual assaults against elderly women.

Richard Saillet, aged 64, of Crick Road, Hillmorton, Rugby, Warwickshire, was sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment at Oxford Crown Court yesterday with two further years on licence.

At a previous hearing on March 24 at the same court, he pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual assault on a female over 16.

On each occasion, Saillet trespassed onto the properties of elderly women in order to sexually assault them.

The offences took place last year in Halesowen, West Midlands, on March 8, Botley, Oxford, on April 27, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, on May 3, and a village near Towcester, Northamptonshire, on 19 May.

Saillet was arrested on May 24, 2016 and charged on February 21 this year.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Richard Lewis of Force CID, said: “This was a very disturbing series of sexual assaults where Richard Saillet has trespassed into the victims’ homes to carry out the offences. Saillet targeted his victims, who were all vulnerable, elderly women living on their own.

“Saillet was identified through phone billing enquiries and subsequent forensic examinations identified his DNA at the scene of the offences.

“Bringing Saillet to justice has very much been a collaborative effort between four police forces, the National Crime Agency and the Crown Prosecution Service and I would like to thank all of those involved.”

Jeremy Taylor, senior Crown prosecutor for Thames and Chiltern Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), said: “This case involved the sexual assault of four women between March and May 2016, in their homes in the West Midlands, Oxfordshire, Worcestershire, and Northamptonshire.

“On each occasion, Richard Saillet, aged 64, attended the home address of the women, who are not known to him, and touched them inappropriately.

"During the first incident, he pushed passed the victim as she opened the door and forced his way in. A week before the second incident, he called the victim claiming someone needed to visit her about a survey. On attending, he said he needed to use the bathroom and when she found him in her son’s bedroom he forced her onto the bed.

"Saillet used violence during the last incident and got angry with the victim when she tried to resist. Saillet targeted the women, due to their vulnerability, and planned his attacks. He is clearly a calculated, ruthless and dangerous man."

“Saillet denied any sexual wrongdoing, but was linked to the offences via DNA, Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR), mobile phone / cell site analysis, and phone billing evidence. On March 24, 2017, at Oxford Crown Court, owing to the strength of evidence against him, Saillet pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual assault.

“We worked closely with Thames Valley Police from early in the investigation to help build the strongest possible prosecution case. Their investigators, and Crown Prosecution Service lawyers and caseworkers have worked tirelessly to bring this prosecution to court.

“This prosecution would not have been possible without the courage of the victims, who were willing to support proceedings. I commend them for their bravery. The physical and emotional impact on the victims of the abhorrent actions of this man is impossible to quantify. I hope that the convictions and today’s sentence give some small comfort to them. Our thoughts are very much with them all at this time.”

A Northampton woman who was left with horrific burns after a hot air balloon she was in crashed into electricity cables has spoken for the first time about the accident.

Rebecca Fry, 22, came moments from death after suffering horrific burns to her legs, back and hands when the balloon struck power cables 50ft above the ground.

The collision sent flames shooting across the balloon's basket which then shot 100 feet into the air with Rebecca lying seriously injured on its floor.

Rebecca miraculously survived the incident last May and has spoken about her ordeal for the first time.

She said: "The basket burst into flames and the intense heat forced the balloon to shoot up, the heat was making it rise.

"I was trying to scream but I couldn't open my mouth as the electricity was pressing my teeth together.

"I looked down at my legs and they looked like cooked chicken because the skin all hanging off.

"My leggings were burnt off and melted into my body.

"I thought I was going to die. My body became numb and I thought 'I'm on fire'.

"I could feel electricity going through me and I couldn't see or hear anything, I had no control over my body.

"I was conscious through most of it, I felt as if my neck was going to snap.

Rebecca was a single passenger in the early morning flight which had been bought for her as a present by her fiance.

The 64-year-old male pilot next to her was not injured.

After crash-landing in a field in Earls Barton, she amazingly managed to call her mum and dad for help, who sent paramedics to the scene.

She was airlifted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham where she spent four weeks being treated at a specialist burns unit.

But due to the severity of her injuries, nurses had to cut the blisters off her body with scissors before covering her in burns gel.

Rebecca said: "It was so horrific but I knew it had to be done if I wanted to survive.

"They dressed me in bandages and but I was losing around ten litres of fluid a day.

"My parents begged for them to put me in a medically induced coma or at least in an epidural because the pain was so bad.

"A lot of it was just a waiting game while the skin healed. I had a skin graft which helped, but failed on some parts of the skin.

"After that it was just a lot of painkillers and creams."

Rebecca, had been enjoying a once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon experience when tragedy struck on May 22 last year

But halfway through the flight, and moments after taking a selfie to remember the experience, she noticed she was in danger.

"I'd just finished taking a selfie when I noticed we were heading towards what looked like a telephone pole," said Rebecca.

"All I could think about was avoiding it but before I knew it we had crashed.

"All of a sudden an amazing day out turned into a nightmare."

The incident happened at around 7.30am and was witnessed by people visiting a nearby car boot sale.

Steve Tee witnessed the balloon basket hitting power cables near the field and said: "The balloon seemed to struggle to gain the altitude.

"The balloon basket hit the power lines causing it to burst into flames.

"Before this happened I wouldn't even think twice to do anything that has the smallest risk in it.

"Now I even struggle driving, as I know that anything can happen anytime and it's completely out of my control."

Another eyewitness, Ian, said: "We were at the car boot this morning at Whites Nursery and a hot-air balloon came over and there was a lady and gentleman - they were waving at everyone.

"It suddenly disappeared over towards the trees and then burst into flames and over towards the ground."

Thankfully for Rebecca, an air ambulance run by charity MAGPAS was sent to the scene.

The organisation is made up of volunteers who give up their time in the East of England to help save lives.

They flew straight to the scene and covered the burns with specialist dressings and then flew her to hospital, there she had a number of distressing treatments, including a skin graft.

Customer services advisor Rebecca said: ""When I saw that an air ambulance had arrived I knew it was bad.

"I just remember seeing the paramedics put a gel pad on my face to protect my facial burns which quite possibly stopped my face from becoming permanently damaged.

"I cannot thank Magpas air ambulance enough for what they did for me. I truly believe that without them I wouldn't be here today."

Rebecca's boyfriend, Bret Hay, had planned to propose to Rebecca that summer in a hot air balloon, but instead decided to pop the question on New Years' Eve.

He was following the hot air balloon at the time of the tragic incident.

Rebecca said: He got a phone call telling him that there had been a serious incident.

"The next thing I know he is running towards me looking so shocked and upset.

"But when I was in hospital Bret and my parents were there everyday looking after me and supporting me."

A year on, Rebecca is still having ongoing treatment to help cope with the long-lasting trauma.

But she has finally had the chance to thank the man that saved her life - 39-year-old Magpas doctor Rupert Hurry.

Rebecca said: "When Rupert came to the scene, I remember looking into his eyes and feeling safe. I knew if I was going to survive it would have been because of them.

"Things have changed for me, and I have come to accept that. Things that weren't important to me before, are now and I am treasuring every moment of life.

"I just really want to reach out to anyone that has been through a traumatic experience and just let them know it's going to be okay.

"I am still going through treatment to help me come to terms with what has happened and I am getting better.

"I am being treated for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and anxiety, but I am just so thankful to be alive."

After seeing Rebecca's miracle recovery, Dr Hurry, who has worked for Magpas for eight years, said: "An incident like this is something that I will never forget and it is so nice to see Rebecca looking so well, it really makes the job worthwhile."

Rebecca and Bret are planning on getting married next year in Italy with their close family and friends.

Magpas Air Ambulance brings crucial lifesaving care by land and air to patients in life-threatening emergencies in the East of England and beyond.

The charity offers pioneering training to doctors and paramedics wishing to specialise in Pre-Hospital Emergency Medicine (PHEM), for which the organisation is renowned in the medical world.

Magpas Air Ambulance relies on generous public donations to continue saving lives: www.magpas.org.uk

Horton House edged three points clear at the top of the Northants Cricket League Premier Division with a hard-fought four-wicket win over Brixworth last weekend.

It was Horton’s third win in three matches, but they were made to work hard for the victory in a low-scoring game.

Paul Blakemore was the only Brixworth batsman to hold his head high, hitting an excellent 70 as his side totalled 133 all out, with William Knibbs and Andrew Neate both claiming three wickets.

If Horton thought they were going to cruise home Brixworth’s bowlers had other ideas, but House got home at 134 for six, with opener Ben Wall top scoring with 25 and Ashley Starmer taking three for 54.

Peterborough are second despite being held to a draw in their clash against third-placed Oundle.

Borough held the upper hand for most of the day, declaring an over early on 277 for five, with Asim Butt stroking 119 and Lewis Bruce 49.

Oundle’s reply was solid, and they batted out the 51 overs making 228 for seven thanks to an unbeaten 113 from Ben Smith, while Mark Hodgson hit 67.

Rushton are fourth after they eased to a six-wicket success over Geddington.

George Parker set up the win as his six for 31 reduced Geddington to 123 all out, with the main resistance coming from Jack Thurman who made 40.

Andrew Reynoldson and Ben Mansell then led Rushton to victory with 51 and 50 not out respectively.

Reigning champions Old Northamptonians are finding their feet, and they claimed a first win of the season at the third attempt as they thrashed rock-bottom Rushden by eight wickets.

Tom Webb bagged six for 39 as Rushden were rushed out for just 100 in 27.2 overs, and Daniel Harris then top scored with 31 as ONs eased to 101 for two in just 14 overs.

Saints made it two wins out of two as they comprehensively saw off Stony Stratford by seven wickets.

Stony were bowled out for 251 in 48 overs with Kevin Wijesinghe top scoring with 52 and Nick Bell the pick of the bowlers, claiming three for 55.

It was a testing target, but Saints coasted home at 254 for three with four overs to spare thanks to an unbeaten 82 from Joe Collins and 73 not out from Tom Bradbeer.

Finally, Finedon Dolben secured their first win of the campaign as they saw off Wollaston by three wickets.

Harry Broome will have been kicking himself after being run out for 95 in Wollaston’s 235 for seven, and although it was a reasonable total, Finedon made short work of it as they made 241 for four in 41.3 overs.

Jack Keeping was top scored with 76 while there was an unbeaten 50 for Callum Berrill.

NCL results - May 6

PREMIER DIVISION

Brixworth 133 all out (Paul Blakemore 70, William Knibbs 3-33) lost to Horton House 134-6 (Ashley Stramer 3-54) by 4 wkts

Finedon Dolben 241-4 (Jack Keeping 76, Greg Evans 44, Callum Berrill 50no) beat Wollaston 235-7 (Harry Broome 95, Tom Doyle 41, Chris Todd 3-57) by 6 wkts

Geddington 123 all out (Jack Thurman 40, Ben Parker 3-34, George Parker 6-31) lost to Rushton 126-4 (Ben Mansell 50, Andrew Reynoldson 51no) by 6 wkts

Northampton Saints 254-3 Elliott Patterson 30, Harry Adair 44, Joe Collins 82no) beat Stony Stratford 251 all out (Mark Hulbert 32, Kevin W 52, Nick Bell 3-55) by 7 wkts

Peterborough 277-5 (Asim Butt 119, David Clarke 38, Lewis Bruce 49, Alex Mitchell 42no) drew with Oundle 228-7 (Mark Hodgson 67, Ben Smith 113no)

Rushden 100 all out (Tom Webb 6-39, William Heathfield 3-39) lost to Old Northamptonians 101-2 (Daniel Harris 31no) by 8 wkts

DIVISION ONE

Brigstock 245 all out (Suk Singh 42, Tashwin Lukas 34, Duncan Croker 38) beat Finedon Dolben IIs 129 all out (Robert Pack 5-33, Jamie Delargy 3-22) by 116 runs

Old Northamptonians IIs 170-6 (Jack Newton 71, Harry Penberthy 39) beat Loddington 168-8 (Lukr Harley 35, Andrew Flint 55no) by 4 wkts

Overstone Park 234-1 (Kunal Patel 83, Ashil Patel 101no) beat Isham 233 all out (Tim Robinson 58, Ben Atkinson 67, Matthew Cannon 4-52, Matthew Jones 3-35) by 9 wkts

Thrapston 279-6 (George Groenland 142, Will Groenland 38, James Chambers 35, Adam Mather 3-57) beat Desborough 241 all out (Wayne Steed 122, Lee Pollard 48) by 38 runs

Weekley & Warkton 179-9 (Liam Piddington 43no, Nick Shelford 3-29) beat Burton Latimer 156 all out (Luke Odell 33, Matthew Cortese 7-47) by 23 runs

Wellingborough Town 195-8 (James Howes 51, Ryan Lovell 56) beat East Haddon 193-8 (Jack Dudleston 31, Richard Hardwick 56no, Craig Burger 33, Kyle Awbery 5-69) by 2 wkts

DIVISION TWO

Earls Barton 253-7 (Callum Ward 38, Thomas Mills 82, Jason Minney 33) drew with Old 151-8 (Jamie Denny 51, Charlie Lawrence 5-26)

Great Houghton 200-9 (James Watson 42, Charles Hart 43, Raul Patel 5-39) lost to Wellingborough Indians 204-9 (Anand Panchal 49, Pritam Patel 57, Greg Pearce 3-76, Luke Mcafee 4-51) by 1 wkt

Irthlingborough Town 131-6 (Neil White 32, Swaboon Zazi 3-38) beat Northampton Saints IIs 130 all out (Muhammed Javed Maqsood 34, Ben Parsons 4-40, Bayes Day 3-9) by 4 wkts

Kettering 120-5 (Lewis James 30, Theo Brooks 31no) beat Peterborough IIs 119 all out Nadir Haider 43, Lewis James 5-20) by 5 wkts

Old Wellingburians 111-6 (Nehal Patel 34no, Tom Firm 5-43) beat Rushden IIs 108 all out (Simon Denton 3-25, Karim Prince 4-29, Terry Butt 3-20) by 4 wkts

St Crispins Ryelands 199-8 (Thomas Robotham 76, Sam Bevin 3-59, Luke Church 3-30) beat Long Buckby 198 (Duncan Harris 53, Nick Smith 30, Luke Church 31, Harry Rowe 3-56) all out by 2 wkts

DIVISION THREE

Horton House IIs 161-2 (Alex Chalcraft 75no, Tremur Alam 52no) beat Old Northamptonians IIIs 158 all out (Sam Hawkins 39, Amrit Basra 66, Rob Mahony 5-36) by 8 wkts

Kislingbury 150-1 (Byron Wyngard 104) beat Brixworth 147-9 (Phil Perryman 43, Benjamin Swingler-Brown 3-24) by 
9 wkts

Oundle 212-6 (Peter Wilson 77, Colin Ray 53no, Andrew Brennan 3-63) beat Irchester 97 all out Nathan McDonald 34no) by 115 runs

Rothwell 118-5 (Patham Jayaneththi 31, Anthony S 3-33) beat Old Grammarians 117 all out Anthony S 41, Robin Thapar 6-27) by 5 wkts

Stony Stratford IIs 263-6 (Scott Clark 41, Andrew Miller 55, Tom Moore 32, Sainath R 40, Simon Chapman 42no) drew with Heyford 323-8 (James Baldwin 66, Simon Legge 71, Rory Smallbone 34, James Edwards 65no, Graham Simpson 4-53)

Wollaston IIs 212-7 (Sam Drage 60, Steve Musgrave 39, Ashley York 3-56, Lee Bell 3-34) beat Great Oakley 90 all out (Joshua Steggles 4-49, Steve Musgrave 4-22) by 122 runs

DIVISION FOUR

Bowden 239-7 (Karl Pollard 78, Daniel Broughton 46, Christopher Weir 34no, Ravi Shastri 5-44) beat Wellingborough Town IIs 145 all out (Thomas Keeney 36, William Farrar 36, Daniel Broughton 4-39) by 94 runs

Raunds 165 all out (Adam Lack 30, Lewis Gates 61, Darren Shelford 3-55) lost to Overstone Park IIs 166-9 (Ryan Arnold 61, Parim Patel 30) by 1 wkt

Rushton IIs 156-8 (Peter Frankcam 46, John Fletcher 33, Harshad Patel 3-35, Ben Harris 3-26) beat St Crispins Ryelands IIs 137 all out (Sunny Bajwa 50, Timothy Cook 4-21, Ryan Lingley 4-57) by 19 runs

Weldon 67-3 beat Geddington IIs 66 all out (Zak Gillies 3-40, Dan Wells 7-18) by 7 wkts

West Haddon & Guilsborough 253 all out (James Nuttall 42, Adam Wallinger 32, Jordan May 89) beat Podington 124 all out (Ian Hart 46, Peter Gregerson 3-31, James Nuttall 4-23) by 129 runs

DIVISION FIVE

Bold Dragoon 138 all out (Daniel O’Dell 51, Sagar Patel 3-45) lost to Weekley and Warkton IIs 238 all out (Lee Fox 51, Nick Dalziel 34, Oliver Bosworth 40, Daniel O’Dell 4-43) by 100 runs

Cogenhoe 258 all out (Henry Swallow 48, Matt Morrissey 81, Aled David 3-75, David York 3-48) beat Kettering IIs 172 all out (Rob Starsmore 111, Paul Smith 3-24) by 86 runs

Higham Ferrers 193-3 (Kishor Patel 42, Steven Materna 96) beat Rothwell IIs 189-7 (Stephen O’Brien 70, Philip Cross 31, Cory Ludwig 41no) by 7 wkts

S&L Corby 137 all out (Sandeep Kumar 34, Ed Bartlett 5-20, Mitchell Merk 3-5) lost to Northampton Saints IIIs 138-4 (Syed Ali 57, Ed Bartlett 31) by 6 wkts

Stony Stratford IIIs 180-9 (Sumeet Nag 50, Alex Stockton 30, Leon Harvey 3-55, Daniel Denton 4-40) drew with Kempston 211-8 (Leon Harvey 73, James Lush 51)

Yelvertoft 276-4 (John Eccles 100, James Burnett 72, Bradley Fellows 37, James Martin 33no, Thomas Stoker 3-87) drew with Thrapston 209-7 (Mark Palmer 46, Andy Stoker 39, Callum Bentley 4-56)

DIVISION SIX

East Haddon IIs 176-7 (Jon Gibson 50, Bill Craddock 3-54, Alan Sewell 3-36) lost to Burton Latimer IIs 177-5 (Alan Sewell 75, George Halfhide 41, Jon Gibson 3-51) by 5 wkts

Isham IIs 161-7 (Ian Kelland 39, Peter Skerrett 49) drew with Irthlingborough Town IIs 202 all out (Ryan Simpson 43, Charlie Roberts 63, Peter Skerrett 4-33)

Loddington IIs 174-8 (William Haines 38, Harry Marshall 34, Zeshan Munsawar 4-61) drew with Carrib United 230-7 (Abid Zia 43, Faisal Hanif 58, Bilal Khan 57, Colin Harrop 3-55)

Podington IIs 65-0 (Sam Sturley 58no) beat Obelisk 62 all out (Aaron Campion 3-25, Paul Davey 4-10) by 10 wkts

Wellingborough Indians IIs 110 all out (Michael Allen 3-23) lost to Harlestone 222 all out (Fahad Ahmed 34, Stephen Ball 31, Rajiv Raval 43, Anil Joshi 4-41) by 112 runs

DIVISION SEVEN

Desborough IIs 297-4 (Christopher Barton 53, James Peel 102, Daniel Barton 97) drew with S&L Corby IIs 142-9 (Ben Lawman 37, Lewis Ward 3-9)

Horton House IIIs 100 all out (Daniel Pegg 5-37, Nathan Vesey 3-31) lost to Great Oakley 101-9 (Chris York 60, Ben Jordan 4-35) by 1 wkt

Old IIs 161-6 (James Hope 53, Tom Windrum 35) beat Mears Ashby 157 all out (Paul Watts 59, David Hornby 5-42) by 4 wkts

Spencer Bruerne 180-9 (Joe York 39, Jacob Humphries 3-40) drew with Earls Barton 226-9 (Chris George 43, Mark Waples 51, Matthew Desborough 90, Sam Heath 3-45, Ashley Morris 3-31)

St Michael’s 74 193-5 (Anthony Webb 84, Karsten Webb 37) lost to Gretton 194-6 (Steven Baines 53, Liam Park 45) by 4 wkts

DIVISION EIGHT

Abington 67 all out (Elliott Baker 4-15, Wepener Groenewald 3-13) beat Bowden 54 all out (Jon Hill 3-12, Vinodhkumar Chandrashekaran 3-11, Stuart Gilmour 3-16) by 13 runs

Old Northamptonians IVs 230-7 (David White 96, Ethan Grayson 46, Billal Blashir 3-45, Ciaran Thomas 3-76) lost to Bugbrooke 234-3 (Richard Hook 100, Aiden Ennis 53) by 7 wkts

Overstone Park IIIs 56-0 (Tim Short 33no) beat Raunds IIs 55-8 by (Mark Morrison 3-26, Jason Millard 3-11) 10 wkts

St Michael’s (N) 85-3 drew with Barton Seagrave 278-4 (Matt Earl 137, Jack Butlin 81, Martin Baker 3-53)

DIVISION NINE

Brixworth IIIs 160-9 (Keith Vince 37, Charlie Lloyd 43) lost to Old Wellingburians IIs 161-8 (Anurag Bankley 56, Keith Halford 3-42) by 1 run

Irchester IIs 103 all out (Ben Miller 3-31, Ben Mellor 5-13) lost to Hardingstone 169 all out (Jack Larkin 36, Alex Piper 35, Charles Cotter 3-30) by 66 runs

Old Grammarians IIs 293-9 (Christopher Terry 31, William Edwards 106, Lahkan Trivedi 38, Vikram Mazumdar 41) beat St Crispins Ryelands IIIs 165 all out (Lawrence Knowles 38, David Hylands 34, Matthew Ward 4-55) by 128 runs

DIVISION 10

Geddington IIIs 290-8 (Benjamin Templeman 111, Miles Knight 53) beat Rushden IIIs 198-8 (Scott Small 100, Brandon Holmes 5-27) by 92 runs

Harlestone IIs 165 all out (Russell Hyland 51, Joshua Lucas 3-24, Steven Milson 3-22) lost to Weldon IIs 166-2 (Brandon Nimmo 102no, Alfie Pye 71no) by 8 wkts

Little Harrowden 76-3 (Matthew Roberts 36no, Lewis North-Row 3-26) beat Wollaston IIIs 73 all out (John Pike 32, Slaman Khan 5-41) by 7 wkts

Weekley & Warkton IIIs 102 all out (John O’Grady 4-37) lost to Brigstock IIs 103-2 (Joe Fox 35) by 8 wkts

DIVISION 11

Finedon IVs 230 all out (Matthew Carroll 55, Jake Hinton 66, Matthew Bicknell 37, Justin Murphy 4-41) beat Overstone Park IVs 88 all out (Alan Fitz 39, Jake Hinton 3-6, Dominic Arnold 3-15) by 142 runs

Horton House IVs 117 all out (Paul Das 31, Joshua Bull 3-25) lost to Old Northamptonians Vs 121-5 (John Bishop 52, Graham Harris 5-17) by 10 wkts

St Crispins Ryelands IVs 133 all out (Nick Bonser 4-20) lost to Higham Ferrers IIs 143 all out (James Walker 52, Michael Gough 3-15, Jacob Broome 3-25), by 10 runs

Thrapston IIIs 117 all out (Adam Boss 3-28) lost to Burton Latimer IIIs 144 all out (Sven Sartain 46, Steve Walker 5-27) by 27 runs

DIVISION 12

Bugbrooke IIs 126-6 (Ed Trafford 44, Ollie Holmes 3-26) beat Grange Park 122 all out (Rob Pinnington 59, Thomas Kirk 4-47) by 4 wkts

Hardingstone IIs 207 all out (Rob Tee 62, Stuart Gray 5-57) beat Mears Ashby 126 all out (Stuart gray 60, Matthew Mooney 4-17) 81 runs

Obelisk IIs 184-8 (Richard Lyon 33, Paul Wright 75no) lost to Bold Dragoon IIs 218-5 (Ahmed Shah 98, Tom Drake 105, Harry Wright 3-36) by 34 runs

Old Grammarians IIIs 170-6 (Stuart Jeffery 49, Dan O’Connor 33) lost to St Michael’s 74 IIs 287-3 (Peter Lyons 113no, Mark Coleman 112no) by 117 runs

DIVISION 13

Barby IIIs 190-4 (John Hardbattle 52, Richard Ansell 85) lost to Spencer Bruerne IIs 237-7 (David Field 68, Richard Muscutt 40, Graeme Lamb 3-66) by 47 runs

Barton Seagrave IIs 105 all out (George Oldershaw 3-26, Samuel Cole 4-27) lost to Stony Stratford Vs 108-2 (Oscar Watson 37, Hashan R 61) by 8 wkts

Old IIIs 115-4 (Timothy Keeber 31, John Chilton 31no) beat Thrapston IVs 112 all out (Benjamin Elston 3-19, Greg Wilson 6-16) by 6 wkts

S&L Corby IIIs 122 all out (David Hobbs 3-10) lost to Isham Zingari 123-4 (David Hobbs 44, Om Ganatra 56) by 6 wkts

NCL fixtures - May 13

Premier Division: Horton House v Rushden, Old Northamptonians v Peterborough, Oundle v Northampton Saints, Rushton v Brixworth, Stony Stratford v Finedon Dolben, Wollaston v Geddington.

Division One: Burton Latimer v Wellingborough Town, Desborough v Brigstock, East Haddon v Overstone Park, Finedon Dolben IIs v Weekley & Warkton, Isham v ONs IIs, Loddington v Thrapston.

Division Two: Long Buckby v Irthlingborough Town, Northampton Saints IIs v Kettering, Old v St Crispin & Ryelands, Peterborough IIs v Old Wellingburians, Rushden IIs v Great Houghton, Wellingborough Indians v Earls Barton.

Division Three: Brixworth IIs v Horton House IIs, Great Oakley v Stony Stratford IIs, Heyford v Oundle IIs, Irchester v Rothwell, Old Grammarians v Kislingbury, Old Northamptonians IIIs v Wollaston IIs.

Division Four: Finedon Dolben IIIs v Raunds, Geddington IIs v Grendon & Prims, Overstone Park IIs v Bowden, Podington v Weldon, St Crispin & Ryelands IIs v West Haddon & Guilsborough, Wellingborough Town IIs v Rushton IIs.

Division Five: Kempston v Higham Ferrers, Kettering IIs v S&L Corby, Northampton Saints IIIs v Bold Dragoon, Rothwell IIs v Cogenhoe, Thrapston IIs v Stony Stratford IIIs, Weekley & Warkton IIs v Yelvertoft.

Division Six: Caribbean United v Isham IIs, Harlestone v Loddington IIs, Irthlingborough Town IIs v East Haddon IIs, Obelisk v Wellingborough Indians IIs.

Division Seven: Earls Barton IIs v Desborough IIs, Gretton v Mears Ashby, S&L Corby IIs v St Michaels 74.

Division Eight: Barton Seagrave v Oundle IIIs, Bowden IIs v Overstone Park IIIs, Bugbrooke v Abington, Raunds IIs v St Michaels (N), West Haddon & Guilsborough IIs v Old Northamptonians IVs.

Division Nine: Great Houghton IIs v Brixworth IIIs, Hardingstone v Heyford IIs, Old Wellingburians IIs v Old Grammarians IIs, St Crispin & Ryelands IIIs v Irchester IIs.

Division 10: Brigstock IIs v Geddington IIIs, Rushden IIIs v Little Harrowden, Weldon IIs v Weekley & Warkton IIIs, Wollaston IIIs v Kettering IIIs.

Division 11: Burton Latimer IIIs v Old Northamptonians Vs, Cogenhoe IIs v St Crispin & Ryelands IVs, Higham Ferrers IIs v Finedon Dolben IVs, Kislingbury IIs v Horton House IVs, Overstone Park IVs v Thrapston IIIs.

Division 12: Bold Dragoon IIs v Bugbrooke IIs, Grange Park v Hardingstone IIs, Mears Ashby IIs v Old Grammarians IIIs, St Michaels 74 IIs v Irthlingborough Town IIIs, Stony Stratford IVs v Obelisk IIs.

Division 13: Barby IIIs v Isham Zingari, Kettering IVs v S&L Corby IIIs, Spencer Bruerne IIs v Barton Seagrave IIs, Thrapston IVs v Old IIIs

Security camera footage has been released in connection with a fuel theft at a Northampton service station.

The incident is happened at around 2.15pm on Wednesday, March 22, at the Grange Farm Service Station, London Road, Northampton

Police officers want to locate the woman pictured, who was driving the car in the second CCTV image, as a spokeswoman said "she may be able to assist the investigation and are urging her to make contact".

Anyone with any information relating to their whereabouts can contact Northamptonshire Police on 101.

Alternatively, they can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The full list of election candidates has been published for Northamptonshire - so take a look at the final list of runners and riders here.

Yesterday marked the deadline for parliamentary hopefuls to register as candidates in the General Election on June 8.

Though the main parties have been drip-feeding their runners and riders over the past fortnight - we now have a definitive list of who will stand.

Just the one independent will contest the poll, Josh Phillips in environment secretary Andrea Leadsom's South Northamptonshire seat.

And UKIP will not be fielding a candidate in Kettering after its tipped candidate, Jonathan Bullock, agreed a deal with current seatholder Philip Holllobone.

The Conservative incumbent agreed to support all UKIP policies if he retains the constituency.

Mr Bullock will instead run against the Conservative Michael Ellis in Northampton North.

The Tories currently hold all seven seats in Northamptonshire.

But Northampton South's previous seatholder David Mackintosh will not be fighting the election leaving East Midlands MEP Andre Lewer to run in his place for the Conservatives.

For the full list, see below.

Northampton North

Jonathan Bullock - UKIP

Michael Ellis - Conservative

Sally Keeble - Labour

Steve Miller - Green Party

George Smid - Lib Dems

Northampton South

Rose Gibbins - UKIP

Jill Hope - Lib Dem

Andrew Lewer - Conservative

Scott Mabbutt - Green Party

Kevin McKeever - Labour

Daventry:

Ian Gibbins - UKIP

Chris Heaton-Harris - Conservative

Aiden Ramsey - Labour

Andrew Simpson - Liberal Democrat

Jamie Wildman - Green Party

South Northants

Denise Donaldson - Green Party

Sophie Johnson - Labour

Andrea Leadsom - Conservative

Chris Lofts - Liberal Democrat

Josh Phillips - Independent

Nigel Wickens - UKIP

Kettering

Suzanna Austin - Liberal Democrat

Philip Hollobone - Conservative

Rob Reeves - Green Party

Mick Scrimshaw - Labour

Corby

Beth Miller - Labour

Tom Pursglove - Conservative

Steve Scrutton - Green Party

Chris Stanbra - Liberal Democrat

Sam Watts - UKIP

Wellingborough

Peter Bone - Conservative

Jonathan Hornett - Green Party

Chris Nelson - Liberal Democrat

Allan Shipham - UKIP

Andrea Watts - Labour

Computers have been shut down across the country after NHS computers across the county were hit by a cyber attack.

The attack is said to be a ‘national’ problem although it is not yet clear how it has affected our area yet.

Dr Tony Naughton, the chief clinical officer at Fylde and Wyre CCG, described the problem as ‘national’, while East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust said it believed it had been hit by a ‘cyber attack’ and had suspended all non-urgent activity.

Tech experts are now battling to fix the problem, but computers at walk-in centres, hospitals, and at GP surgeries have been taken offline. Patients have been urged to avoid them all ‘unless absolutely necessary’, and should call 111 for triage and medical advice.

East and North Hertfordshire NHS trust, one of the those affected, said in a statement: “Today (Friday, 12 May 2017), the trust has experienced a major IT problem, believed to be caused by a cyber attack.

“Immediately on discovery of the problem, the trust acted to protect its IT systems by shutting them down; it also meant that the trust’s telephone system is not able to accept incoming calls.

“To ensure that all back-up processes and procedures were put in place quickly, the trust declared a major internal incident to make sure that patients already in the trust’s hospitals continued to receive the care they need.”

A statement from NHS Digital said: “A number of NHS organisations have reported to NHS Digital that they have been affected by a ransomware attack which is affecting a number of different organisations.

“The investigation is at an early stage but we believe the malware variant is Wanna Decryptor.

“At this stage we do not have any evidence that patient data has been accessed. We will continue to work with affected organisations to confirm this.

“NHS Digital is working closely with the National Cyber Security Centre, the Department of Health and NHS England to support affected organisations and to recommend appropriate mitigations.

“This attack was not specifically targeted at the NHS and is affecting organisations from across a range of sectors.

“Our focus is on supporting organisations to manage the incident swiftly and decisively, but we will continue to communicate with NHS colleagues and will share more information as it becomes available.

“As at 15.30, 16 NHS organisations had reported that they were affected by this issue.”

The NHS is under increasing attack from cyber blackmailers attempting to extort ransoms from dozens of hospitals using internet viruses which encrypt data.

Health service trusts serving millions of patients have been hit by the “ransomware” attacks in the past 12 months, prompting concern that antiquated IT systems are leaving NHS data such as patient records vulnerable to exploitation by criminals.

The rise of ransomware was last week highlighted by Europol, the EU’s law enforcement body, as the “dominant threat” to public and private organisations across Europe as organised crime groups deploy an increasingly sophisticated arsenal of viruses.

“NHS trusts are being increasingly targeted and any loss of patient data would be a nightmare scenario. Like everyone else, they need to be applying robust controls.”

Ransomware works by implanting a piece of software, often sent disguised in an email, which then turns data on a machine or network into encrypted gobbledygook. The senders then demand a ransom, paid in an untraceable cyber currency such as BitCoin, which averages £350 to £700 but can reach into thousands. According to one estimate, the extortion racket is worth some £300m a year.

NHS Digital, the body which oversees cybersecurity for the health service, acknowledged an increase in attacks but said that no ransom was paid in any of the “rare” serious ransomware incidents reported to it and that no data was lost. It said patient records had not been affected, adding that the NHS was one of myriad organisations being targeted by the attacks.

Esquires in Bedford is gearing up for its birthday weekend with shows by Roni Size, Pop Will Eat Itself and Kuenta i Tambu as well as a beer and food festival.

The venue is 27 years old at the end of May and over the past 12 months has undergone a host of improvements to cement its place as one of the best venues for live music in the region.

Although a headline gig by Pop Will Eat Itself is sold out, on Friday, May 26, Roni Size headlines with support from Dynamite MC and Optimum.

Legendary Bristol producer and DJ Roni Size with MC Dynamite will be playing a 90-minute set with a mix of drum and bass, hip hop, old school jungle, funk, soul and house.

Doors open at 8pm, tickets cost £15 in advance before fees. This is an over 18s show.

On Saturday, May 27, Esquires is hosing FoodDrunk – a street food and cider festival.

The venue will be transforming its car park into a mini food market, putting up bunting and getting out a few hay bales for good measure.

The two downstairs rooms will be turned into halls for the discerning foodies, with sounds as good as the tastes throughout the day.

Esquires is working with some of the most respected street food sellers in the UK and there will be more than 15 different ciders on offer as well as DJs and live bands playing.

More details about food sellers attending are available online.

Rounding off the weekend on Sunday, May 28, will be Kuenta i Tambu.

Described as the finest party band in the world, KiT are back for their fourth visit.

Last seen on these shores on a nationwide support with Dub Pistols, the Amsterdam based five piece played at the Bedford River Festival last July to a 20,000 strong crowd.

Inspired by traditional Afro Caribbean music from Curaçao and European Dance, Kuenta i Tambu have found a balance between electronic sound samples, singing and chanting and the infectious rhythms played by ritual tambú drums.

Tickets cost £7 advance before fees. Doors, 7.30pm, support are still to be announced.

For information about all forthcoming gigs at the venue, visit www.bedfordesquires.co.uk