Frodsham "stars" in new TV drama

FRODSHAM will be the star of a new television drama series to be screened in the autumn.

Filming has started on the six-part ITV drama "Homefront" in which Frodsham takes on the role of the fictional garrison town of Leysham.

Six weeks of filming will take place at various locations in the town, including outside the Bears Paw and Frodsham Army Cadets base on Main Street and St Laurence's Church.

Frodsham's Mayor Cllr Andrew Dawson said: "This is very exciting for Frodsham and I would like to welcome the cast and crew and hope they enjoy the next few weeks with us. "Filming on this scale will always present challenges with the increased number of people, vehicles and equipment. It is hoped that disruption can be kept to a minimum."

Local councillor Lynn Riley, Cheshire West and Chester's executive member for Community and Environment, added: "This filming presents an excellent opportunity for Frodsham to be seen across the country on prime time television during the autumn.

"There are many exciting things taking place in Frodsham over the next few months - things that will get people talking about our town."

The drama focuses on four real and remarkable women - Paula, Tasha, Louise and Claire - who live in Army quarters in the fictional garrison town.

Homefront is created by Sue Teddern (Birds of a Feather, Happy Together, soloparentpals.com for Radio 4) who has written the series with Jan McVerry (Coronation Street, Clocking Off, The Street, The Forsythe Saga). The cast includes Claire Skinner (Outnumbered, Doctor Who), Clare Higgins (The Syndicate, The Golden Compass, Silent Witness), Nicola Stephenson (Strike Back, Moving On, The Chase) and Antonia Thomas (Misfits, The Deep).

Cllr Stuart Parker, CWC's executive member for Culture and Recreation, said: "We have seen an increase in filming across West Cheshire this year with television and film crews visiting Neston, Ellesmere Port, Chester, Tarporley and now Frodsham.

"Creative England, which provides dedicated support to film, television, games and digital and creative services, estimated the value of filming in Cheshire and Warrington last year to have generated an approximate inward investment of £1.5 million into the region's economy".

Community grants up for grants

ORGANISATIONS in Frodsham and Helsby are being invited to apply for community grants before a May 31 deadline.

Rural funding is available for local community groups and organisations via Cheshire West and Chester's Rural Support Grants.

Future deadlines are September 30 and January 31.

In the past two years the fund has made awards to 37 applicants amounting to £645,000, helping to deliver capital-based projects with a total value of just over £6.9m within the borough. Groups in Frodsham, Helsby, Kingsley and surrounding areas which carry out work to benefit the community are invited to apply.

To be eligible projects require match funding of 50 per cent and groups can apply for between £5,000 and £50,000.

Projects should be completed within a year of receiving funding. Cllr Ralph Oultram, chairman of the CWC Rural Support Funding Steering Group, said: "We have seen a real difference this funding can make to our rural communities.

"I would urge community groups to apply for the funding if they have any project proposals which they believe could be eligible for support through this grant."

Projects so far include village hall and community hall refurbishments, sports facilities, play area schemes and environmental improvements.

Further details about the funding are available from Cheshire West and Chester's Rural Agenda Market Towns Team on 01244 977475, by email by clicking here

Take a stroll in the neighbourhood

RESIDENTS of Weaver Vale Housing Trust properties in Frodsham are being invited to go on a "neighbourhood stroll" on Tuesday, May 15.

The Trust wants its customers to join its staff in the strole, to help identify environmental issues of concern. The walk will start at the entrance to the new Overton Green and Overton Close development.

A number of similar events took place in Frodsham, Northwich and Winsford last year and highlighted issues such as litter, fly-tipping hot spots, or external repairs such as damaged walls.

Neighbourhood development officer Phil Singleton said: "Last year our customers took part in the stroll to help improve where they live and I hope that even more people will get involved again this year."

The stroll will begin at 10am and it is expected to last up to two hours. More information is available from the neighbourhood team on 01606 813508.

Volunteers wanted to help cut waste

VOLUNTEERS are being sought in Frodsham to advise residents on how to reduce their waste by home composting and making the most of left over food.

Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWC) is offering volunteers training, travel expenses and membership of the Waste Reduction Volunteer Reward scheme.

In return the volunteers will be asked to take part in a number of local events and projects, throughout the year.

Volunteers can choose from a range of activities such as delivering talks, supporting their local schools, attending large events and shows, holding workshops and giving demonstrations. The next induction training sessions will take place at 9.30am on May 19th at Delamere Forest Visitor Centre.

Cllr Lynn Riley, CWC's executive member for Community and Environment said: "We have a dedicated bunch of individuals who never cease to amaze the council with their enthusiasm and extensive knowledge of food and home composting.

"We find that most people are quite interested in how they can waste less and save more, but sometimes, it's knowing where to start.

"The project is designed to be insightful, educational but most of all fun and a great opportunity to meet new people and share ideas.

"It is always rewarding when the volunteers talk about the experiences they've had on the many events they have been involved with."

Eula Hersey from Frodsham, has been working on the waste reduction scheme for a few years now.

She said, "I have been a volunteer for three years and I have met some incredible people and volunteers. "I love everything about food - cooking, eating and experimenting with recipes, so I enjoy talking about the 'Love Food Hate Waste' programme when I'm out and about at events and I am always picking up extra ideas and tips from the public about how to waste less food myself.

"It's been a whirlwind and I can honestly say it's never been boring!"

Anyone who would like to book a training session can contact the project co-ordinator on 0300 123 8 123 or apply online at cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/waste.