John Smith
Croydon
Articles by John Smith
Ark at Laura Newman in Nottingham on new tour
And she comes to Nottingham's Theatre Royal on January 17. Laura Newman is one of the most exciting new voices in British stand up and her unique take has created a following of millions online. Ark At She is show is packed with sharp, warm and gloriously unfiltered observational comedy about the trials and tribulations of adulthood, womanhood and parenthood.
Broxtowe Council leader says government should go back to the drawing board on LGR
Coun Milan Radulovic (Brox All) said he welcomed the the Government's announcement that its plan to expand Nottingham city's boundaries has been withdrawn by while all proposals are reconsidered. The Government chose option bii for Nottinghamshire – put forward by Labour-led Nottingham City Council – which would have seen Broxtowe split in two, with areas like Eastwood remaining in a new county unitary authority while Kimberley would have become part of a new city unitary authority.
Political shake-up at Ashfield Council as 10 independent councillors form new opposition group
The move creates the largest opposition grouping on the 35-seat authority, with the ruling Ashfield Independents holding 18 seats, giving them a majority of just one. The new group, known as District Alliance, brings together councillors from across Ashfield, including former Ashfield Independents and previously non-aligned independents. Coun David Shaw (Ind), who represents Hucknall West, has been appointed the new group's leader with Coun Kier Barsby (Ind) as deputy leader.
Bulgaria's cliffside cave church with a Last Supper older than da Vinci's
A day trip to the rock-hewn churches located near the village of Ivanovo, Bulgaria, was one of the tours available on my Danube River cruise. I quickly jumped at this opportunity for hiking and exploration. A UNESCO World Heritage Site Back in medieval times, it was apparently popular for monks to sequester themselves in cave churches that were often built high up in the mountain rocks.
Weather can't dampen the mood at Poppy Appeal launch in Giltbrook
The event took place at Giltbrook Retail Park on October 24 and featured military vehicles, a the Seaforth Highlanders Military Pipe Band, Eastwood Male Voice Choir and dignitaries from across the county. There was also a short ceremony with a bugler.
Former rough sleepers share their stories for Framework's 25th art anniversary exhibition
The exhibition aims to give a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness. From trauma to hope to independence brings together paintings, installations, spoken word performance, real-life testimonies and a soundscape of noises heard by people experiencing rough sleeping.
From rock 'n' roll legends to Motown magic – Mansfield Palace Theatre turns up the volume this October
From the rock & roll revolution of the 1950s and 60s to the timeless songs of Fleetwood Mac, Queen, Elton John, Meat Loaf and Motown, there is something for music lovers of all ages – and plenty of opportunities to sing along. The musical journey begins on OCtober 7 with Rave On: The 50s & 60s Experience, taking audiences on a nostalgic trip back to the golden era of rock ‘n' roll.
‘It means everything': Rob Rinder thrilled to be joining Nottingham's pantomime tradition
Running from Saturday, 28th November, 2026 to Sunday, 3rd January, 2027, the spectacular production from Crossroads Pantomimes will also star television and theatre favourite Samantha Womack as the villainous Mrs Blunderbore, returning Nottingham panto favourite Neil Hurst as Simon Trot, acclaimed cabaret performer Mary Mac as Dame Trot, alongside musical theatre stars Matthew Croke as Jack and Mia Kobayashi as Princess Jill.
Scottish and Cornish brews and Vicky McClure's Dementia Choir lined up for Nottingham Beer & Cider Festival
This year, two of the new beers to grace the festival will come from the Driftwood Spars Brewery in Cornwall. Trevaunance is a four per cent malty copper coloured bitter and Alfie's Revenge is a 6.5 per cent strong, rich red ale. Alfie's Revenge is named after a stuffed squirrel that used to be displayed in the pub. Alfie would often ‘go off on travels' around the parish, but he was always returned. Then, sometime in 2009, he left for good and never came back.
Nottinghamshire kids encouraged to apply to be mini toy testers and get paid in toys!
The Toy Retailers Association will be recruiting a panel of mini toy testers from around the UK, who will have the opportunity to try out toys from the coveted DreamToys list and report back on their experience – and recruiters are now searching in Nottinghamshire. The DreamToys list is the UK's most authoritative prediction of the most desirable new toys on the high street, and is selected by a panel of toy retailers and experts from small independents to national chains.
Northern Ballet bringing UK premiere of Michael Pink's magical Cinderella to Nottingham
Choreographed by Michael Pink, the production premieres at Nottingham's Theatre Royal on October 23 and 24 as part of a new nationwide tour. Continuing its canon of stories that connect, the production – which was originated by Milwaukee Ballet in 2009 – will have audiences enthralled and entranced with breathtaking ballet, tender duets and laugh-out-loud characters.
Nottingham Playhouse's Amplify programme announces its new associate artists
Cherelle is founder and director of Behind Closed Doors and Andy a director and dramaturg specialising in directing and developing new writing. Behind Closed Doors is a creative community for women, centred on black and brown women across art forms, in Nottingham, Nottinghamshire and the midlands. They create spaces where women can support each other and take the lead on their creative journeys, whether they're still figuring it out, enjoying it as a hobby or are deep into their creative careers.
Nottingham author's new children's book warns of global warming
Society breaks down, ruthless extremists seize power, crocodiles and sharks abound, and deadly contagion ravages the population. Into this doomsday scenario, genetically enhanced teenagers struggle to survive. The Ravenshead Terrors is published by IFWG International and launches internationally on September 18.
Council colleagues' marathon bid to finish 26-mile Bolsover Loop in one day
Alana Bowman, Clare Betts and Kelly Chappell tackled the recently developed Bolsover Loop – completing the 26-mile circular route which connects towns, villages and attractions around the heart of the Bolsover district. The intrepid trio are believed to be among just a handful of people who have walked the full distance of the scenic trail, mapped out by the district council, in one session.
Sherwood Forest MP plays leading role in creating England's first statutory maternity commissioner
Ms Welsh, the Government's national maternity adviser, played a key role in pushing for the role of England's first statutory maternity commissioner to be enshrined in law, in a landmark step towards making maternity safety a permanent priority for Government. The new statutory role will provide an independent and powerful voice for mothers, babies and families, while representing those working on the frontline, including midwives and obstetricians.
chiesti indietro 3,5 milioni
; Continua a leggere Altro per te Continua a leggere Altro per te
More than £1.2m invested into Kimberley's high street businesses
In all, £662,221 has been awarded in grant funding by Broxtowe Council, with the businesses themselves contributing £612,837 in match funding, helping to rejuvenate Kimberley's high street. Impressions Dental Care have been on Victoria Street since the 1970s serving generations of Kimberley residents and families. Current owner Sam joined the business in 2008 and took it over with his wife Claire a little over five years ago.
I followed Tupac Shakur's killing for decades. Keffe D talked too much
Thirty years is a long time whichever side of the law you're on. Hair turns gray and memories fade, broad shoulders stoop and midsections sag. Feet go flat, and even those with a lifetime spent looking over their shoulders lose a step, or in some cases even the ability to walk. And they are the lucky ones. Until his temper, greed, and mouth got the better of him, Duane "Keffe D" Davis was one of the fortunate few.
I followed Tupac Shakur's killing for decades. Keffe D talked too much
; ; ; ; Continue reading More for You
Blood iron and fate in Mansfield as Shakespeare's Macbeth is reborn
This September, Shakespeare's most chilling tragedy is brought vividly back to life as the National Production Company presents Macbeth at Mansfield Palace Theatre on September 23. Step into a brutal, shadowy Scotland of warlords, cold gods and colder winters, where victory on the battlefield is only the beginning. When a victorious soldier encounters three mysterious strangers who speak his future aloud, their prophecy plants a dangerous seed of ambition. They name him king.
D-Day Darlings bring Britain's wartime spirit to Mansfield
Famous for their appearances on Britain's Got Talent, The D-Day Darlings have captured the hearts of audiences across the country with their stirring performances and passion for keeping the music and spirit of the wartime generation alive. Their memorable appearances on the hit ITV show saw them perform much-loved classics including Vera Lynn's We'll Meet Again.
Svizzera, spari al rave: morta Maria Spinelli, feriti (e già dimessi) due italiani. «Forse più uomini armati», caccia ai killer
; ; Continua a leggere Altro per te
il passato ribelle, i legami con Jeffrey Epstein e il figlio in carcere
; ; Continua a leggere Altro per te ; ; ; Continua a leggere Altro per te
Preview | Leeds United vs Brentford: Team news, lineups, predictions (Premier League 30/08)
Leeds United and Brentford go head-to-head at Elland Road this Sunday in the Premier League . The match will be broadcast live at 14:00 on Sky Sports Premier League. Leeds United have 3 points to their name this season and occupy 9th position in the table. In their last game, Daniel Farke 's team won against Nottingham Forest (Carabao Cup 2026/27). Brentford have 3 points to their name this season and occupy 3rd position in the table.
From Mansfield to Santiniketan: Poet's Tagore honour fuels push for literature festival
A Mansfield poet has found himself at the centre of an extraordinary international literary celebration, with his work appearing alongside some of the world's leading Tagore scholars, academics and creative voices. Richard C. Bower is the fifth contributor in the Personal Essays section of the newly published special edition of Gitanjali and Beyond, the international journal of the Scottish Centre of Tagore Studies, marking the 165th birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore.
Selston care home residents share advice for life's key moments with neighbouring nursery
Residents at Wren Hall on Nottingham Road, which is owned and run by Church Farm Care, recently met with children from the neighbouring Little Wrens Nursery as part of its ‘milestone moments' initiative – an intergenerational activity designed to encourage meaningful conversations between those who have experienced life's milestones and those yet to live them.
Women in Music Nottingham to champion region's talent
The first Women in Music event, at Rescue Rooms on August 21, will feature headline acoustic performances from some of Nottingham's most exciting female artists, an industry mixer, open mic, live music and female DJs. Following acoustic sets from Evening Plans, Julia Rose and Ok, Lady, the talented female resident DJs of Dazed Muzic, titans in the dance music scene, will take over the decks at 10pm. The Women in Music initiative aims to address the gender imbalance within the music industry.
Music, comedy, theatre, family fun and more in Mansfield Palace's new season
From chart-topping tribute shows and laugh-out-loud comedy to family adventures, live music and festive favourites, there's something for everyone. Music lovers are spoilt for choice with some of the UK's finest tribute productions celebrating legendary artists and bands.
Residents invited to 'tour your town' as Broxtowe Council launches tourism campaign
The new scheme is called ‘Tour Your Town' and highlights that Broxtowe is a borough of ‘makers and doers' with a strong industrial heritage of coal mining and brewing in the north, and pencils and lace in the south.
Nuthall couple have tram named in their honour as Nottingham's newest community heroes
Following an outpouring of public nominations, Tony and Wendy Swift unveiled a tram named in their honour as they were officially crowned the city's latest community heroes. Best known for transforming their home into the annual Nuthall Christmas Lights display, Tony and Wendy have raised more than £300,000 for Nottingham-founded children's charity, When You Wish Upon a Star and Nottingham University Hospital NHS Trust's special palliative care unit, Hayward House.
Kimberley MP appointed to cabinet as new Justice Secretary
Mr Norris, who has been an MP since 2017, becomes the Justice Secretary and Lord Chancellor in Mr Burnham's new-look Government. It is Mr Norris' first cabinet position and he replaces David Lammy in the role. Since Labour returned to power in 2024, he has held the junior positions of Minister of State for Border Security and Asylum and Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Building Safety, Fire and Local Growth.
Peter Polycarpou to play Hercule Poirot in Agatha Christie's The Hollow in Nottingham
Peter Polycarpou's recent stage credits include Les Misérables: The Arena Concert Spectacular, The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry and Hello, Dolly!, while his screen work includes House of the Dragon, Birds of a Feather, The Brutalist and Evita. He received Olivier nominations for his performances in Oslo and The Band's Visit.
Sweet treat is 'icing on the cake' for Eastwood IT support team
Staff at Your IT Department on Farrington Way were delighted to receive the sweet treat from one of Nottingham's oldest family-owned businesses, Jones & Co, as a ‘thank you' for their support during a major logistical project. The tasty gift was baked by the Lynn Skinner, IT manager at Jones & Co, who was impressed by the dedication of the engineers and support staff, helping to overcome many challenges during the company's relocation to a new building.
Mansfield and Ashfield to be part of new unitary county council as under Local Government Reorganisation plan
The Labour Government has backed option Bii from the LGR consultation – which was put forward by the Labour-led city council – to create two, single-tier unitary councils. Nottingham city and parts of Rushcliffe, Gedling and Broxtowe now become part of a the new city unitary council The rest of the county, including Broxtowe, will now become part of the new county unitary council.
Pupils wave goodbye to schools across Broxtowe
; ; Continue reading More for You
Nuthall mum says parents facing an 'unfair burden' if their children's school transport is axed
Reform-led Nottinghamshire Council has been reviewing its discretionary bus service that serves more than 500 pupils attending Catholic and Church of England schools. The authority is set to recommend ending this discretionary transport from September 2027 after facing ‘significant financial pressure', where any savings could help the council achieve its multi-million-pound savings plan.
Mansfield and Ashfield pupils among 600 primary school children singing in special concert at Nottingham's Albert Hall
Now in its third year, the event was led by its founders, Tanya White and Lindsay Clark and managed by Lucy Reid, music services manager for Inspire and the Inspire music team, who provided a band of local talented musicians, set the music and led the singing on the day.
Young artists invited to apply for Mansfield Museum's young artist programme
Starting in September, the 12-month programme offers aspiring and early-career artists the opportunity to develop their creative practice, gain valuable industry experience and collaborate with like-minded young people from across the district.
Utah's Arches National Park: Where nature carved over 2,000 stone masterpieces
Utah's Arches National Park has the world's largest concentration of natural sandstone arches. More than 2,000 arches, along with many other fascinating geological formations, are to be found in this one park, and this destination is certainly a photographer's delight. Arches National Park is located a mere 5 miles from Moab, so I used this as my base (staying at the Moab Valley Inn), and a short drive north led me to this incredible park.
Exploring Canada's own grand canyons and badlands near Drumheller, Alberta
I was driving through Alberta's “Wheatland Country”, with its rather wide open, rolling and lush farmland, but as I approached Drumheller (110km./65 mi.) northeast of Calgary ), the landscape took a very sudden and dramatic change.
"We're still “a city of rebels": Kirkby author launches Georgian crime saga on the Nottingham's128th birthday
On August 7 – the exact day Nottingham marks 128 years since it gained city status – Alice will launch The Hangman's Turn, part one of The Lions Chamber, the opening novel in a sweeping Georgian crime saga set in the gaols, gin-shops and winding jitties of Nottingham's past. The launch date is no accident.
Winners of 2026 DH Lawrence children's writing competition announced
This year's competition was themed around ‘friendship' and received more than 350 entries of short stories and poems from children aged four to 16. Among the stories from winners in the international competition, celebrating this year's theme of friendship, were the tale of astronaut Poppy's encounter with alien Blub on Planet Twinkle and the story of two friends' last day together in the Japanese town of Atima before a big move to Tokyo.
Fast-track a move at homebuilder's events in Nottinghamshire this weekend
The events, taking place on Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12, will present the opportunity for home movers to arrange a valuation of their current property, and have a cash offer on the table in 24 hours, subject to customer and agent availability. They can then enjoy a stress-free process before moving into their brand-new Barratt or David Wilson home.
Mansfield and Ashfield bus operator surprises and delights customers for Clean Air Day
Each of the operator's depots has given out a 28-day MegaRider ticket to a passenger – selected at random – to highlight the environmental benefits of taking the bus. Figures from Bus Users UK show that a brand-new diesel car with a single occupant can emit more Nitrogen Oxides than a new bus carrying 50 or more passengers, whereas a fully loaded double-decker bus can take 75 cars off the road.
Celebrations as Eastwood's DH Lawrence Museum turns 50 years old
The musuem, at 8a Victoria Street was fist opened on Monday, June 28, 1976 by former of Broxtowe Council chairman Coun Ray Hudson (and, allegedly, Lawrence's spirit) after a campaign by group of local enthusiasts for the building – the house that Lawrence was born in – to become a museum to the famous author. Chief among the campaigners was Enid Goodband (1925-2016) a passionate local historian, a founder member of the DH Lawrence Society and the museum's first Curator.
Unstoppable Kimberley go 20 points clear after winning top-of-the-table clash
The visitors came into the game as Kimberley's nearest challengers, but were soon on the back foot after Harrison Parker (47) and George Bacon (44) shared an opening stand of 87 to lay the foundations for Kimberley. Seb Sayer (31) and Martin Weightmann (37) continued the momentum as Kimberley built steadily before player-coach Dilhan Cooray provided the late acceleration with an unbeaten 64 to see Kimberley to 226 all out in 49.4 overs.
Amazon staff in Sutton take a 'paws' to welcome furry friends on site
As part of a series of events to mark Mental Health Awareness month, a group of Amazon employees enjoyed having therapy puppies at the fulfilment centre for some serotonin-boosting workplace sessions. Rachel Walker, an employee who attended the sessions, said: “The sessions were a really enjoyable experience.
Mansfield vets urge dog owners to consider 'couch potato' days as temperatures rise
And with that in mind Carrick Veterinary Group Mansfield in Mansfield Woodhouse, is sharing advice keeping pets cool and spotting the signs of heat stress early. Zoe Read, practice manager, said: “Pets should always have access to plenty of fresh water. "If they appear uncomfortable, owners can help by wetting their feet, using a cooling mist, or allowing dogs to paddle in shallow water.
Peppa Pig is coming to Nottingham in a brand new family show
Fierylight, in collaboration with Hasbro, are presenting the show at Nottingham's Theatre Royal on the weekend of July 11 and 12. The brand-new live production will see the new addition to the family, Evie Pig, introduced to fans on stage across the UK for the very first time. Based on the much-loved animated preschool TV series, Peppa Pig's Big Family Show is packed full of music, adventure and surprises for little ones and is the perfect introduction to theatre.
Magic of Cinderella coming to Nottingham Playhouse this Christmas
The Neville Studio festive production is specially created for children aged three to eight and their families. Cinderella dreams of going to the palace, but with midnight fast approaching her happily ever after is far from guaranteed. With plenty of moments of audience interaction, catchy songs and a running time of 50 minutes, the show is the perfect introduction to live theatre for little ones.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with John
Contact John, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack