MORNING EDITION: Upper crust - Arnold butchers scoops award at prestigious pie event

Good morning 🌅 Happy Monday! We hope you had a good weekend. Here's your daily email updating you on the latest news and information from across Gedling borough. See you tomorrow!

🥧 Arnold butchers takes top spot at pie awards

An Arnold butchers triumphed at this year’s British Pie Awards, taking home the prize in their respective category.

AE. Chamber Ltd scooped best Pork Pie, seeing off a total of 56 entries.

The pie-oneering awards have honoured the most delectable pies across the nation for the past 18 years, ranging from classic British staples to tantalising, trend-topping creations.

The competition is comprised of 26 distinct categories, encompassing traditional favourites alongside Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Free options. 

Family butchers AE. Chambers Ltd have been serving the people of Arnold since 1898 and is well known for its handmade pastries, including the best-selling Pork Pie. The fourth-generation butchers scooped the crown in the same category just two years ago.

Matthew O’Callaghan, Chairman of the Mowbray Pork Pie Association and host of the British Pie Awards, said: "These awards highlight the true skill and imagination of pie makers across the UK, which is why this win is so well-deserved.” 

A record 187 judges are on the panel, with extensive industry experience between them. This includes pie buyers from Tesco and Sainsbury’s, a selection of esteemed food writers and journalists, and the 2015 Supreme Champion, Neil Broomfield.

💷 Council finalise budget for 2026/27

Gedling Borough Council last week approved their budget for 2026/27, which sets out how key services for residents will continue to be delivered and outlining the council’s priorities for the borough. 

A council tax increase of 2.998% has now been approved - equivalent to £5.82 per year in Gedling’s share of council tax based on a Band D property. This means Gedling Borough Council’s portion of Band D council tax will be £200.32 annually. 

Their share represents only one part of the overall council tax bill, which also includes Nottinghamshire County Council, the Police and Crime Commissioner, the Combined Fire and Rescue, and where applicable, local parish councils. 

Gedling Borough Council says it continues to face increasing financial pressures due to rising service demand, inflation and ongoing funding constraints in local government, making careful financial planning essential to protect services for residents. 

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, John Clarke, said: “Setting a balanced budget in the current financial climate is increasingly challenging for councils across the country. This budget allows us to continue delivering vital services for our residents while investing in the things that matter most to our communities. 

“We remain committed to managing the council’s finances responsibly and ensuring that Gedling continues to be a great place to live, work and visit.” 

The budget also supports delivery of the council’s forthcoming Legacy Plan, which will set out Gedling Borough Council’s priorities for the coming years, including continued investment in communities, local services and the future of the borough. 

They council said further information about the council’s priorities and future plans will be shared when the Legacy Plan is published shortly. 

🌤️ WEATHER UPDATE

Here's what's in store today...

Extensive low cloud, mist and any drizzle will slowly lift, with brighter spells possible during the afternoon. Increasing chance of showers through the afternoon, perhaps rather heavy.

It will turn drier during the evening with variable cloud amounts. Isolated showers might continue into the first part of Monday night.

📷 Retro pic of the day...

Send your local pictures from the past to news@gedlingeye.co.uk and we'll feature them here

😔 Covid victims remembered

Gedling Borough Council joined communities across the UK in marking the COVID-19 Day of Reflection on Sunday (8), remembering those who lost their lives during the pandemic and reflecting on the lasting impact it has had on families and communities. 

To mark the occasion, Deputy Mayor of Gedling, Councillor Sandra Barnes, placed flowers at the COVID memorial stone in Arnold town centre.

The National Day of Reflection was established to provide an opportunity for people across the country to come together to remember loved ones, reflect on the experiences of the pandemic and honour the kindness and support shown within communities. 

The day also recognises the extraordinary efforts of those who supported others during this time, including NHS staff, doctors, nurses, carers, volunteers and key workers, whose dedication helped protect and support communities throughout the pandemic. 

Deputy Mayor of Gedling, Councillor Sandra Barnes, said: “COVID-19 touched the lives of so many people across our communities. The Day of Reflection gives us an important moment to pause and remember those who are no longer with us. "

The COVID memorial stone in Arnold town centre provides a place where residents can visit to remember those affected by the pandemic and reflect on the experiences shared by communities during that time. 

🔴 🟢 🟡 Gedling Lotto results: Winning numbers for Saturday, March 7

There is a chance to win up to £25,000 every Saturday when you play Gedling Lotto.

You just need to match six numbers to win the £25,000 jackpot.

We now publish the winning numbers after each Saturday night.

THIS WEEK’S WINNING NUMBERS (7/3/26) ...

1 5 9 0 6 3

Gedling Lotto is a weekly lottery draw that raises money for good causes across Gedling Borough. All good causes supported by the lottery will benefit the Gedling Borough and its residents.