Helm Crag

I have posted some new icd taken on a walk up Helm Crag
This is just to the north of Grasmere and is a really good trip. The views are stunning and there is a great deal of interest
The route back down the valley includes some great little pools that can be used for an impromptu dip
the route includes Gibsons Knot
Park either in Grasmere or on the roads nearby
See http://www.walkthefells.net/ONE_WALK.asp?WALK_ID=927

Also in Grasmere try it's famous gingerbread
Brilliant

Did summer ever begin? It gets hotter now.

Just returned from 2 weeks hold in France. During that time. Attempted to complete the 3X of Mt Ventoux, ie going up all three routes in one day.

X

Alas I managed to do it over 2 sessions having to endure near 40 degree heat. Still better to acknowledge limitations that push on and put too much pressure on others. however it's better than I have done before and beats the Police Fitness Test I think.
So annual health check done

I have loaded some pics after a battle with Picasa.

So what happened to the summer. Well for many it didn't develop into the heat wave we deserve.

But the Olympics shone through and now we look forward to some courageous endeavours and achievements in the Paralympics.

Returning to the Digital desk and catching up with what's happening provides some space for reflection. The next few months will see massive changes in policing. We look forward to seeing how the PCC election goes and what the Supplementary Transfer Voting system will create. Having been involved in the electoral process it will  be interesting to explore the possible outcomes.
The transition from one governance model to another will be a challenge for many. Not least the Police Authority members who have given tremendous energy to policing over the years.

So whilst the weather may not have created the buzz of heat, the policing agenda certainly will over the next few months.

The end of the Swim

And a picture at the end of the team after the event
Many thanks to all the helpers and organisers and to all those who have donated towards the 2 charities

The Blue lamp Trial Swim Done

So we started the day with some trepidation or at least I did. A longer swim than ever before for
Me. A stroll in the lake for Tom and Michelle
However I set off at a reasonable pace but soon realised that my pace and theirs were somewhat different. So the conclusion nearly 4 hours later was that we all ended up at Ambleside.
Job done
Huge respect for Tom who was about 30 mins quicker over the 6 to 6.5 miles
Michelle is just so quick.
Here are some views of us before the swim.
It was great that Kath Rathband was able to start the event. A real hero.

Blue Lamp Trail 30th June

The Blue Lamp Trial


Next week I am embarking on my longest swim. The length of Windermere. The intention is two-fold. First to raise awareness of the Blue Lamp Foundation
http://bluelamp-foundation.org/

Second to raise funding for it.

The mission of the Foundation is
The money that we raise is used to relieve the financial hardship that some personnel of the Emergency Services may face after being criminally injured whilst on duty.

We are aiming to raise £1million by 2013, which will be three years after forming.

On the 30th June I will race Thomas Noblet to the participate in the first Blue Lamp Trial. It will start at 9am and involves us swimming the length of Lake Windermere.
This will be the longest in time and distance I have ever swam. So the unknown.

But it's worth it. I can't think it could in any way approach the pain and suffering many colleagues have endured as a result of criminal attacks and assault.

We want to show support to the families and friends of those injured and to help the Foundation. The Foundation was established by David Rathband and we support it to mark the impact that David had on policing. He is remembered with pride.
We hope that we can do something to help our show rct for his life and contribution to keeping our society safe.

If you can support the Blue Lamp Trial use the link below and donate

http://www.justgiving.com/StuHyde



Thank you

Blue Lamp trial

Ok here's the deal. 30th June swim the length of Lake Windermere. That's it.
If you can support me on the day that would be great. If not follow the link and donate a few bob to the Blue lamp Foundation
http://www.justgiving.com/StuHyde

Thanks

Visit to the Deer Initiative

Last week I had the pleasure of visiting the Deer Initiative within Cumbria and spent time talking to national experts about the challenges of retaining a balance amongst the sometimes competing issues. We covered the types of deer, their habitats and risks to them as well as the risks to people from vehicle related accidents. The number of road accidents involving deer is high and was brought close to home by one involving a colleague that week. Luckily no injuries.
One of the interesting issues was the status of deer as res nullius ie they are owned by no one. The Deer Initiative is a partnership and like so many such relationships it's value exceeds the sum of its constituent parts. Whilst covering issues of Deer in the rural countryside we explored Deer in urban environments.
The site http://www.thedeerinitiative.co.uk/best_practice/
covers the initiative but also identifies agreed good practice.
In my role as ACPO lead for Wildlife and Rural crime it was very useful to see the extent of collaboration and the integration of statutory and voluntary sectors alongside land owners. Many issues shared, many views exchanged. I look forward to developing good working relationships with those involved.
My thanks to the Graythwaite Estate, Cumbria Deer Project, John Thornley, Peter Watson and Alastair Boston and to colleagues from the Forestry Commission who helped make the visit so informative.

About Najib

The guy behind the swim is Najib Belhadi
Here is his swimming CV
http://openwaterpedia.com/index.php?title=Nejib_Belhedi
A remarkable and jolly man whose ideology of peace drives his work. His water accomplishments are legendary and nothing is too much for this incredible man.
He has built up an awesome reputation for getting things done and tomorrows swim is but one of many
He has written a poem about the aq which is below. It may not translate exactly but the core message of peace runs throughout.

"Neither the strong currents stop him,
Nor the wide sea immensity downs him,

Nor then the media would be unfair for him,
He continues his swim quietly and patiently,

He loves swimming for peace and it's a lifestyle with respect to nature as a principle for him,
Speaking by swim to express peace with the peoples is his ultimo goal,
Whenever he thinks, the sea waves dedicate a blue melody for him,

A big bang from the dark depth of the sea blesses him:
When large waves wake up, the breeze pools bend in reverence before him,
And never the tree hiding the forest!

It’s a question of ‘To be or not to be’ for him!
The Open Water Swimming Home is faithful.

They never forgets its free swimmers,
We see his arms thank the waves across each meter he swims.
It’s already a prelude to a new victory for him.

Moreover, with only his google, cap and swimsuit!
He believes with his companions to change the world for the better!

Mahdia is witnesses for the dove flying over her sea of peace!"

Preparation time for peace Swim

Ok we have 4 languages 10 swimmers coast guard and 3 separate Zodiac support boats and a large sailing vessel. The idea is to create a swimming heart. One team swims straight ie the slow ones ( incl me) then one team on the left wing one on the right. The wing teams swim faster and join the slow team to create the heart at 2 hours then 2 hours swim back.
Sounds simple. Then we need feeding water etc. should be fun.

Najib in full briefing mode attached

Day 2

Last night we met up with Najib and the Maltese team for the main swim tomorrow. This morning we had out first practice. The idea is to create a heart shaped swim with one team swimming straight and two teams covering the sides. It was as Najib calls it Water ballet not the Olympics. Many would not associate me with doing ballet. However we started and it seems to work.
Najib is an ex military officer who is completely devoted to Tunisia. An important message he gave me this morning was about the importance of political power. To paraphrase "a president should work for the country and then when he ends his term of office should take his trolley shopping at the supermarket He doesn't own the country he works for it"
Very appropriate
A great crew so far and a real team challenge. As Najib states, we need to be like Dolphins, effortlessly sliding through the water as a team
This is quickly turning into one of those many management exercises to synchronise 3 nationalities to take on a complex task. Great fun

Why we are here

The swim is to commemorate the Tunisian Revolution and is a swim for Peace. The event we are joining is only a very small part of the total swim of 1400kms along the entire coastline. It is, in a small way, an opportunity to show respect for the fundamental changes that have taken place across many countries.
For info on the Arab Spring there are many sites however here is one that is more appropriate about Tunisia
http://international.ucla.edu/cnes/conferences/tunisia/

A view from Hammamet Castle

Just testing wifi etc for main swim

Day 1

Struggled to find wifi. Had a great start to the Swim. 2 practice sea swims and one in pol this morning then a tour of Hammamet Medina (castle). Lots of shops etc and it seems the chat starter is for the salesman to say effectively "hi do you remember me . I am the waiter from your hotel" whih they aren't. But a polite intro at least. Easy exit from airport and the team is getting ready. Plan for the Peace swim heart changes by the hour but watch this space.
Feel very relaxed after a challenging few weeks.

Swim for Peace TEST

Just testing the links
Here is the News link

http://www.cumbriacrack.com/2012/05/22/sharks-and-sewage-await-lake-districts-gladiator/

Light The Lakes 28th April 4.30AM

In the Picassa section I have posted some pictures of Harter Fell (Mardale) a great walk albeit rather windy creating a cold chill

The weather aside the reason for the trek was not just to enjoy the scenery although that would have been enough.

It was a recce for the forthcoming “Light The Lakes” see http://www.facebook.com/#!/LightTheLakes

The Light the Lakes event will see people on most of the Wainwrights in the Lake District lighting it up at dawn, ie 4.30am on Saturday 28^th April

The event will be in respect to a fallen police hero Heather Cooper

It is a chance for police colleagues, friends and family to remember and to show respect.

If you are interested in helping out or would like to bag one of the empty Wainwrights then log into Facebook and join us on the day

Hope you enjoy the pictures and join us if you can.

Visit to Cumbria By HRH Prince Charles

Today HRH Prince Charles visited Cumbria and was given the opportunity to meet a range of people, businesses and buildings across the county. With precision timing he met many local folk and 'made their day'.
So where did he visit

I have included links o some but not all the locations and organisations he spent time with. A massive collection of great places to visit, and enjoy.

Staverley Mill Yard
A village within a village, Staveley Mill Yard is a collection of businesses, both industrial and retail, which together have created a unique and vibrant working community, only a few miles from the heart of the Lake District.

http://www.staveleymillyard.com/

Hawkshead Brewery
Celebrating it's 10th anniversary

http://www.hawksheadbrewery.co.uk/

 Fancy Food and Drink
Friendly Food and Drink make a range of award winning products that are suitable for most diabetics and allergy sufferers, as they are made from fructose (fruit sugar), and they contain no glucose, no gluten, no dairy (except curds) and no nuts, just goodness.
Cumbrian Delights main aim is to produce a range of products again award winning, but using ordinary sugar, and with most having a link to Cumbria/Lake District with all its varied culinary creations.
http://www.friendlyfoodanddrink.co.uk/

The Wordsworth Trust
Dove Cottage et al

http://www.wordsworth.org.uk/

South Lakeland Council

http://www.southlakeland.gov.uk/

Lakes Parish Council

http://www.ambleside.u-k.org/parish/home.htm

Wigton Town 
Wigton, a town that existed before AD1100, lies on the Solway Plain between the Caldbeck Fells and the Solway Coast. The meaning of its name comes from Wiggeton, meaning a farmstead or village of a man called Wicga plus the old English personal name ‘tun’. Its nickname was “The Throstles Nest”-a throstle is another name for a thrush. There are a number of stories as to the origin of the nickname. One says a Wigton man returned home from World War I and, upon seeing the town, said, ‘Away lads, it's the throstle's nest of all England!’
http://www.thecumbriadirectory.com/Town_or_Village/location.php?url=wigton

Nelson Thomlinson School band
http://www.nts.cumbria.sch.uk/aboutus/motto-arts.php

Wigton Youth Station
The Funky Friday Group is a youth provision which is housed in the Wigton Youth Station building.  It is an open group which provides a safe environment for young people (aged 11+) whose lives are affected by disability, to make friends, discuss issues facing them and underpin their development through their social skills.  It is a vibrant place to engage in activities, projects and trips, and most importantly somewhere to have FUN!
http://www.funkyfridaygroup.co.uk/

 
http://www.visitcumbria.com/wc/wigton.htm

Greystone House Farm Shop Greystone House has received several Local and National Awards. It was recommended in The Times newspaper as a fun and healthy alternative to the dreaded service station (July 2005) and they are proud to be one of Rick Stein's food heroes.


http://www.visitcumbria.com/wc/wigton.htm

During the visit 2 of the Princes funds were supported
The purpose of the Prince’s Rural Action Programme is to engage businesses to make a positive difference to rural communities, through the way in which they do business, in order to sustain the rural economy, protect and enhance the environment and protect the nation’s cultural heritage and landscape.

http://www.bitc.org.uk/princes_programmes/rural_action/index.html

The Prince’s Countryside Fund is a unique collaboration of brands and businesses working together to support the people who take care of our countryside.
 
http://www.princescountrysidefund.org.uk/

Dalemain House
Dalemain Near Ullswater, on the Northern fringes of the Lake District, Dalemain is a real treasure. The fantastic Lake District historic house and gardens contains behind its Georgian facade, a wealth of Tudor and Mediaeval rooms and buildings. There has been a settlement at Dalemain since Saxon times, when a fortified pele tower is mentioned and the present day courtyard is testimony to the defensive nature of the hamlet surrounding that tower.
http://www.dalemain.com/

Stainton School

http://www.stainton.cumbria.sch.uk/

And Cumbria Women's Institute

Cumbria is an area of great natural beauty and many unique traditions. The Cumbria-Cumberland Federation stretches from Alston (the UK's highest market town, with its steep cobbled main street) in the north, along Hadrian's Wall, through the historic city of Carlisle, out to the ports of Maryport, Workington, Whitehaven and as far south as Silecroft, as well as all the wonderful towns and villages within these boundaries.
 
http://www.ccfwi.org.uk/



Plenty to look at plenty to do and there are many more where these came from

A big thank you to HRH and to all the many people who made it happen.
 

Today HRH Prince Charles visited Cumbria and was given the opportunity to meet a range of people, businesses and buildings across the county. With precision timing he met many local folk and 'made their day'.
So where did he visit

I have included links o some but not all the locations and organisations he spent time with. A massive collection of great places to visit, and enjoy.

Staverley Mill Yard
A village within a village, Staveley Mill Yard is a collection of businesses, both industrial and retail, which together have created a unique and vibrant working community, only a few miles from the heart of the Lake District.

http://www.staveleymillyard.com/

Hawkshead Brewery
Celebrating it's 10th anniversary

http://www.hawksheadbrewery.co.uk/

 Fancy Food and Drink
Friendly Food and Drink make a range of award winning products that are suitable for most diabetics and allergy sufferers, as they are made from fructose (fruit sugar), and they contain no glucose, no gluten, no dairy (except curds) and no nuts, just goodness.
Cumbrian Delights main aim is to produce a range of products again award winning, but using ordinary sugar, and with most having a link to Cumbria/Lake District with all its varied culinary creations.
http://www.friendlyfoodanddrink.co.uk/

The Wordsworth Trust
Dove Cottage et al

http://www.wordsworth.org.uk/

South Lakeland Council

http://www.southlakeland.gov.uk/

Lakes Parish Council
Friendly Food and Drink make a range of award winning products that are suitable for most diabetics and allergy sufferers, as they are made from fructose (fruit sugar), and they contain no glucose, no gluten, no dairy (except curds) and no nuts, just goodness.
Cumbrian Delights main aim is to produce a range of products again award winning, but using ordinary sugar, and with most having a link to Cumbria/Lake District with all its varied culinary creations.
http://www.ambleside.u-k.org/parish/home.htm

Wigton Town 
Wigton, a town that existed before AD1100, lies on the Solway Plain between the Caldbeck Fells and the Solway Coast. The meaning of its name comes from Wiggeton, meaning a farmstead or village of a man called Wicga plus the old English personal name ‘tun’. Its nickname was “The Throstles Nest”-a throstle is another name for a thrush. There are a number of stories as to the origin of the nickname. One says a Wigton man returned home from World War I and, upon seeing the town, said, ‘Away lads, it's the throstle's nest of all England!’
http://www.thecumbriadirectory.com/Town_or_Village/location.php?url=wigton

Nelson Thomlinson School band
http://www.nts.cumbria.sch.uk/aboutus/motto-arts.php

Wigton Youth Station
The Funky Friday Group is a youth provision which is housed in the Wigton Youth Station building.  It is an open group which provides a safe environment for young people (aged 11+) whose lives are affected by disability, to make friends, discuss issues facing them and underpin their development through their social skills.  It is a vibrant place to engage in activities, projects and trips, and most importantly somewhere to have FUN!
http://www.funkyfridaygroup.co.uk/

 
http://www.visitcumbria.com/wc/wigton.htm

Greystone House Farm Shop Greystone House has received several Local and National Awards. It was recommended in The Times newspaper as a fun and healthy alternative to the dreaded service station (July 2005) and they are proud to be one of Rick Stein's food heroes.


http://www.visitcumbria.com/wc/wigton.htm

During the visit 2 of the Princes funds were supported
The purpose of the Prince’s Rural Action Programme is to engage businesses to make a positive difference to rural communities, through the way in which they do business, in order to sustain the rural economy, protect and enhance the environment and protect the nation’s cultural heritage and landscape.

http://www.bitc.org.uk/princes_programmes/rural_action/index.html

The Prince’s Countryside Fund is a unique collaboration of brands and businesses working together to support the people who take care of our countryside.
 
http://www.princescountrysidefund.org.uk/

Dalemain House
Dalemain Near Ullswater, on the Northern fringes of the Lake District, Dalemain is a real treasure. The fantastic Lake District historic house and gardens contains behind its Georgian facade, a wealth of Tudor and Mediaeval rooms and buildings. There has been a settlement at Dalemain since Saxon times, when a fortified pele tower is mentioned and the present day courtyard is testimony to the defensive nature of the hamlet surrounding that tower.
http://www.dalemain.com/

Stainton School

http://www.stainton.cumbria.sch.uk/

And Cumbria Women's Institute

Cumbria is an area of great natural beauty and many unique traditions. The Cumbria-Cumberland Federation stretches from Alston (the UK's highest market town, with its steep cobbled main street) in the north, along Hadrian's Wall, through the historic city of Carlisle, out to the ports of Maryport, Workington, Whitehaven and as far south as Silecroft, as well as all the wonderful towns and villages within these boundaries.
 
http://www.ccfwi.org.uk/

 
Plenty to look at plenty to do and there are many more where these came from

A big thank you to HRH and to all the many people who made it happen.
 

Today HRH Prince Charles visited Cumbria and was given the opportunity to meet a range of people, businesses and buildings across the county. With precision timing he met many local folk and 'made their day'.
So where did he visit

I have included links o some but not all the locations and organisations he spent time with. A massive collection of great places to visit, and enjoy.

Staverley Mill Yard
A village within a village, Staveley Mill Yard is a collection of businesses, both industrial and retail, which together have created a unique and vibrant working community, only a few miles from the heart of the Lake District.

http://www.staveleymillyard.com/

Hawkshead Brewery
Celebrating it's 10th anniversary

http://www.hawksheadbrewery.co.uk/

 Fancy Food and Drink
Friendly Food and Drink make a range of award winning products that are suitable for most diabetics and allergy sufferers, as they are made from fructose (fruit sugar), and they contain no glucose, no gluten, no dairy (except curds) and no nuts, just goodness.
Cumbrian Delights main aim is to produce a range of products again award winning, but using ordinary sugar, and with most having a link to Cumbria/Lake District with all its varied culinary creations.
http://www.friendlyfoodanddrink.co.uk/

The Wordsworth Trust
Dove Cottage et al

http://www.wordsworth.org.uk/

South Lakeland Council

http://www.southlakeland.gov.uk/

Lakes Parish Council
Friendly Food and Drink make a range of award winning products that are suitable for most diabetics and allergy sufferers, as they are made from fructose (fruit sugar), and they contain no glucose, no gluten, no dairy (except curds) and no nuts, just goodness.
Cumbrian Delights main aim is to produce a range of products again award winning, but using ordinary sugar, and with most having a link to Cumbria/Lake District with all its varied culinary creations.
http://www.ambleside.u-k.org/parish/home.htm

Wigton Town 
Wigton, a town that existed before AD1100, lies on the Solway Plain between the Caldbeck Fells and the Solway Coast. The meaning of its name comes from Wiggeton, meaning a farmstead or village of a man called Wicga plus the old English personal name ‘tun’. Its nickname was “The Throstles Nest”-a throstle is another name for a thrush. There are a number of stories as to the origin of the nickname. One says a Wigton man returned home from World War I and, upon seeing the town, said, ‘Away lads, it's the throstle's nest of all England!’
http://www.thecumbriadirectory.com/Town_or_Village/location.php?url=wigton

Nelson Thomlinson School band
http://www.nts.cumbria.sch.uk/aboutus/motto-arts.php

Wigton Youth Station
The Funky Friday Group is a youth provision which is housed in the Wigton Youth Station building.  It is an open group which provides a safe environment for young people (aged 11+) whose lives are affected by disability, to make friends, discuss issues facing them and underpin their development through their social skills.  It is a vibrant place to engage in activities, projects and trips, and most importantly somewhere to have FUN!
http://www.funkyfridaygroup.co.uk/

 
http://www.visitcumbria.com/wc/wigton.htm

Greystone House Farm Shop Greystone House has received several Local and National Awards. It was recommended in The Times newspaper as a fun and healthy alternative to the dreaded service station (July 2005) and they are proud to be one of Rick Stein's food heroes.


http://www.greystonehousefarm.co.uk/

During the visit 2 of the Princes funds were supported
The purpose of the Prince’s Rural Action Programme is to engage businesses to make a positive difference to rural communities, through the way in which they do business, in order to sustain the rural economy, protect and enhance the environment and protect the nation’s cultural heritage and landscape.

http://www.bitc.org.uk/princes_programmes/rural_action/index.html

The Prince’s Countryside Fund is a unique collaboration of brands and businesses working together to support the people who take care of our countryside.
 
http://www.princescountrysidefund.org.uk/

Dalemain House
Dalemain Near Ullswater, on the Northern fringes of the Lake District, Dalemain is a real treasure. The fantastic Lake District historic house and gardens contains behind its Georgian facade, a wealth of Tudor and Mediaeval rooms and buildings. There has been a settlement at Dalemain since Saxon times, when a fortified pele tower is mentioned and the present day courtyard is testimony to the defensive nature of the hamlet surrounding that tower.
http://www.dalemain.com/

Stainton School

http://www.stainton.cumbria.sch.uk/
And Cumbria Women's Institute

Cumbria is an area of great natural beauty and many unique traditions. The Cumbria-Cumberland Federation stretches from Alston (the UK's highest market town, with its steep cobbled main street) in the north, along Hadrian's Wall, through the historic city of Carlisle, out to the ports of Maryport, Workington, Whitehaven and as far south as Silecroft, as well as all the wonderful towns and villages within these boundaries.
 
http://www.ccfwi.org.uk/

 
 Plenty to look at plenty to do and there are many more where these came from

A big thank you to HRH and to all the many people who made it happen.
 

Mountain Rescue Teams

If you get the chance have a read of the Lake District Mountain Search and Rescue Association Mountains Accidents 2011
A long title but an important booklet for anyone contemplating using the Mountains and hills of the Lake District or anywhere else for that matter.

Whilst many of the takes of accidents and injuries supported by MRTs are unfortunate or unavoidable. many are not
So to give you a sample of challenges that have faced our brave and voluntary organisations rescuing you off the Mountains here goes.

"they had a GPS but did not know how to use it"
"family of 5 benighted with no torches"
"map was waterlogged and useless"
"party of 3 decided to climb Skiddaw through an unusual route, benighted with no torches"
"had no map compass or torches"
"had no torch and didn't know what to do"
"GPS batteries failed"
"reported missing by friend, found in Sheffield"

As well as these tales there are heroic incidents that demonstrate the sheer workload and value of MRT response. They help the badly injured, they help locate and retrieve bodies, they rescue many from harm.

If ever you see the Mountain Rescue Teams say thank you. They are there to serve everyone and do so without prejudice about how people find themselves in difficult situations. They will get you out.

But you can also help them by taking some simple precautions. A map, a compass a torch minimum. Many guide books provide simple lists of things to remember.  And take a water proof cover for your map, it has been known to rain in Cumbria. 

MRTs are there to help all of us, let's spread a little common sense, take the things we need and support them to continue to provide the real Forth Emergency Service

If you use the Mountains or have ever been rescued, remember MRTs are volunteers and rely on our financial support.

So give and help them help everyone

If you get the chance have a read of the Lake District Mountain Search and Rescue Association Mountains Accidents 2011 A long title but an important booklet for anyone contemplating using the Mountains and hills of the Lake District or anywhere else for that matter. Whilst many of the takes of accidents and injuries supported by MRTs are unfortunate or unavoidable. many are not So to give you a sample of challenges that have faced our brave and voluntary organisations rescuing you off the Mountains here goes. "they had a GPS but did not know how to use it" "family of 5 benighted with no torches" "map was waterlogged and useless" "party of 3 decided to climb Skiddaw through an unusual route, benighted with no torches" "had no map compass or torches" "had no torch and didn't know what to do" "GPS batteries failed" "reported missing by friend, found in Sheffield" As well as these tales there are heroic incidents that demonstrate the sheer workload and value of MRT response. They help the badly injured, they help locate and retrieve bodies, they rescue many from harm. If ever you see the Mountain Rescue Teams say thank you. They are there to serve everyone and do so without prejudice about how people find themselves in difficult situations. They will get you out. But you can also help them by taking some simple precautions. A map, a compass a torch minimum. Many guide books provide simple lists of things to remember.  And take a water proof cover for your map, it has been known to rain in Cumbria.  MRTs are there to help all of us, let's spread a little commo sense, take the things we need and support them to continue to provide the real Forth Emergency Service If you use the Mountains or have ever been rescued, remember MRTs are volunteers and rely on our financial support. So give and help them help everyone

Police and the Private Sector

There is a great deal of debate underway on an OJEU notice that WMP and Surrey have posted.

The notice was signed by a number of forces who have expressed an interest in the outcome of the debate, including Cumbria. The notice does not, in my view, commit any force to privatise core policing delivery but does give rise to the opportunity for debate about a range of supporting services.

The fundamental question it asks of the private sector is this: can the private sector deliver supporting aspects of policing cheaper, and more effectively and efficiently than currently achieved by the Police Service directly? Notably, can it do so after existing reduced budget reductions are actualised ?

To “test the market” private organisations will need to fully understand policing requirements and then make viable proposals. As I understand it, forces may then choose their level of involvement and decide on what components they wish to adopt. There are many ways of looking at this. Clearly, one is the view that this is a step toward privatising policing, and ought not to be seriously considered. However, many of the services we already deliver have a private sector aspect. For example, the vehicles we drive, the clothes we wear, the equipment with communicate with or use has been purpose built by private industry − mostly to specifications made by the police. Moreover, many aspects of recording of crime (e.g. ActionFraud) or forensic technology (i.e. the many forensic service or digital recovery services) are privately managed.

It is not new for policing to look for alternative sources of directly managed service delivery. The overarching challenge will be identifying what services could be open to delivery by private sector organisations and those that must remain within our own direct control.

As police leaders we have a duty to deliver against our objectives and the Policing Plan as well as budgets set by our governing bodies, the Police Authority and the Home Office. When Police and Crime Commissioners are elected, communities may more closely dictate what and how programmes of work are delivered. Remaining outside the discussion or debate now, is not, in my view, a reasoned response.

Today, we have to deliver policing services against a substantial reduction in budgets as part of the national drive to address the budget deficit. We should investigate any reasonable opportunity to maintain high quality service delivery within our budget allocations. One option is to “open services to market forces”. This gives us the opportunity to explore where other service providers can meet the criteria of highest quality and more efficient costs. When private organisations respond to the notice we will be able to better discuss what alternative service delivery method, if any, we might consider.

We cannot predict the future or prejudge the public appetite for change (through the PA or PCC) beyond the existing reduction programmes. If Company X is capable of delivering a better and cheaper service privately than the police service can deliver, perhaps in the future then they may do so. Indisputably, the safeguards of ethical behaviour, service competence, capability, liability and risk management must always be paramount. I am not fundamentally against using private business to deliver services. The greatest challenge to private providers will be to ensure that a central ethos of public service is delivered.

Policing is about citizens entrusted with extraordinary powers to uphold the law. Where that power is exercised actions and behaviour must be accountable to the community and the state, and I believe that must always be so. However , in good conscience can we use that principle to deny others from delivering supporting services? Like most officers with whom I serve, I started my public service career with a clear intention to make life better for society and do things that are right. Our support and non-warranted staff share this vision and commitment. Whilst many do not have direct contact with the public, they work to reduce crime, mitigate victim impact, and serve our communities well. Their allegiance to the police is immeasurable. Already under threat of notice of job changes or cuts, it is not surprising that current private sector considerations are worrisome. We must remain sensitive to the concerns of all our staff and integrate their views into our decision making.

The debate about creating a more ‘contracted approach’ to policing has just begun. There is no simple answer, and the whole debate has many sides and probably no ends.

I look forward to an open discussion with colleagues about these issues

On Friday 2nd March I gave a presentation to students at the University of Cumbria. This is the presentation (unfortunatly plus a few minor amendments) I gave

U of cumbria2 march

View more PowerPoint from Stuart Hyde

Visit to Germany February 2012

Last week I had the pleasure to visit Franconia, Bavaria and Berlin. A week of museums music and magic. Beautiful sights, churches buildings and intersting food wine and beer. Cities such as Munich, Nurnberg and Warzburg huge historical significance as well as Berlins spectacular operas.

Some pics below, the rest are on the right

Hope you enjoy the views.

A range of sausages

Frozen River

Amazing paintings

Ancient Chemist

A love sign. You sign a lock and throw away the key. a symbol of affection

And finally the Brandenburg Gate in chocolate.

yummy.

A real cultural journey

Had a lovely walk above Pooely Bridge today
Here are some pics. It well worth remembering that images can be created from the sky and from the ground.

Equally stunning views of the fells with cairns

And the numerous stone circles

And of coure Sunday lunch

All finished off with Pooley Gingerbridge from wwwgrannydowbekins.co.uk

Cumbria launches new initiative Inspira

Today I attended the launch of Inspira.

You may think this is a new Shared Service company, or an amalgamated international change conglomerate

No it’s not any of those.

It’s the reborn and revitalised Connexions Service of Cumbria

I am not usually a fan of rebranding but having listened to the leaders of Inspira outline their vision and goals it all makes sense. Beg, borrowing and more to get a rebrand for almost nothing they have encapsulated the reason why Connexions existed in the first place, to Inspire and get people to achieve their potential.

So what’s behind the name?

Firstly, massive success, as Connexions Cumbria, in placing, training, developing and growing people into future employment. A real sense that “anything is possible” oozes out of their leaders.  Locally they are respected by schools, the University, colleges and most importantly, employers.

Russell Hobby the General Secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers built the audience up with an impressive recognition of Cumbria’s advancements through Connexions. Paul Oginsky Adviser to the Office of Civil Society built on a humorous presentation to guide us into really believing that this not only could be a great change, but was the right change for Connexions in the County.

Finally Mark Bowman as the Chief Executive of Inspira showed his total commitment and enthusiasm.

So what will Inspira actually do?

Well it is all about building on the success of Connexions Cumbria, giving people hope which is much in demand in these difficult and challenging times. But its reach will be broader looking to help organisations as well as individuals to succeed and grow.

As an ex Connexions Birmingham Board member I want to ensure that we as a Constabulary are doing everything possible to assist. Cumbria people, expect it, and indeed demand it for the future of its people.

This is what Inspira is all about

We are a delivery-based provider of community services, and our name reflects our purpose to inspire people, organisations and communities to success.
We offer comprehensive solutions to a wide variety of social challenges, including delivery of statutory services to public bodies and strategic support for local authority programmes supporting youth in the community.
We work in partnership with many organisations, to provide unrivalled expertise and an unmatched network of expert coverage across the country.

Go to http://www.inspira.org.uk/ To find out more

Presentation to Cumbria County Council January 2012

Last week I gave a presentation to Cumbria County Council. This is the abridged content of that delivery
County Council – Kendal January 2012
I want to start my presentation to you today by paying a personal and professional respect to Craig Mackay. As his Deputy for the past almost 3 years I have enjoyed his vision, capacity and total humanity and humility.
It has been a real privilege and honour to have worked with him. The Met have chosen well.
On Monday I take on the role of Chief Constable and I am very grateful to the Police Authority for having the trust and faith in me.
I inherit a great team. The 2 ACCs that you know well will both perform the role of my Deputy over the next 18 months. Jerry Graham starts for the first 9 months then Michelle Skeer for the following 9 months. We will hold one ACC post vacant to save revenue. This will involve substantial changes that we will outline over the next few weeks.
Today is an opportunity for me to do two things
First to outline how we are performing and give you a sense of what we have been up to
Second to explore the relationship we have with you and other key partners, and what we can achieve together in the future.
I will very much appreciate any feedback bad or good and feel free to connect with me by text, email, twitter, letter or we could just talk

We have consistently reduced crime over the past few years and in Cumbria last year we delivered a further 5% reduction
Cumbria has seen crime reduce in many areas such as Violence, Burglary, Car Crime and damage. And we have had major success with organised criminal gangs and serious criminality
Per Capita, Cumbria has fewer burglaries than other Police Forces in the country. There have been nearly 6,400 less reports of ASB compared to the same period last year.
Our overall crime performance is available online under www.police.uk and called Crimemapper. You can use this data locally with constituents or to hold us to account. Your Neighbourhood inspectors will be more than willing to discuss with you
In Feb 2011, in responding to local demand we re-structured our Policing Teams to achieve a number of objectives.
More police on the streets when it matters
Continued close links in communities with partner agencies.
Provide a closer link between our constables and sergeants.
We also delivered Mobile Working that allows our officers to access Police IT outside the station. They stay on patrol with critical information now at their fingertips. As part of a local, agreement we can use Cumbria County Council Wi-Fi. Currently 90 officers per day are using that system. That’s 90 occasions when officers no longer have to return to the station to log on.

We have extensively increased our use of social media, Facebook, twitter, Youtube and Coveritlive:
We Jointly funded a Social media audit by Public i. The results have improved connections with our communities.
‘Tweet day’ with trading standards around Fraud
NFU Farming event
Chaplaincy service and multi faith groups
NHS (with A/Insp Mike Kelly)
Online safety aimed at schools

Within Cumbria we have piloted the roll out of Action Fraud a unique national scheme to improve the response to fraud. Despite some hiccups this is trailblazing the relationship between the police and the commercial world at a national level
We are part of the Cumbria Community Messaging Service which continues to support the variety of watch schemes across the county
We have developed individual partnerships to promote
Pub Watch
Farm Watch
Hotel and Guest House Watch
In December we Launched the 101 number;. This allows callers to contact us more easily.
At Christmas we ran campaigns to raise awareness of alcohol and violence, drink driving etc supported by Council officials

Major events in Cumbria:
Appleby Fair – was the most successful in years – great feedback from communities and travellers alike.
Lady Gaga joined us for the Radio 1 Big Weekend, very little disorder or crime. R1BW put us on the map
Great North Swim, Windermere
Windermere Air show
Cumberland Show
Kendal Calling at Lowther
Blues Festival
All these events building on effective partnerships
During the Summer London and other cities suffered a series of riots – Cumbria Police provided officers to support the Met.
We have a joint venture with Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service. We will be opening a joint training facility at HQ in February
This will help both organisations to make savings.
During the past 12 months we have redesigned our estates. Our ambition is simple. To deliver cost effective facilities to for our officers. In considering our options we have two over riding principles,
Nothing's out and Anything’s in.
We are sharing buildings with partners including Cumbria Fire and Rescue Stations. Equally we are working with Network Centres and have shared facilities in Carlisle and Barrow.

One major success was the recognition of Jonathan Mann, West BCU PCSO, Jane’s Police Review National PCSO of the year. Real recognition for working in your community

At a Business Against Crime Award ceremony in Whitehaven, individuals and companies were acknowledged including Pubwatch, Shop watch, Ambulance and first responders. Another example is the South Lakes business Against Crime Partnership.

Carlisle City West Problem solving group brings together Fire, NHS, Housing, Wardens, Councils, connexions etc. Problems are discussed and solved together.
The team wanted to reduce arsons by removing trees but no budget was available. The group contacted a forestry company with an offer for free training for their new staff i.e. some trees to chop down and at no cost to any organisation.
In Carlisle Operation Moonraker in 2011 tackled violent crime, followed by in Penrith – Operation Nottingham. Street pastors were dealing with people in crisis; taxi Marshalls at key times. Closer working between Police and door staff to enforce Dispersal Orders. Violence has decreased in the City Centre and Penrith.
We have introduced of ASBRA’s, Anti Social Behaviour Risk Assessments at multi agency groups to decide how it is to be tackled, i.e. re-housing, landscaping, access/egress to sites, fly tipping.
And some of our, often forgotten, behind the scenes collaboration.
We are exploring returning to a joint ground maintenance contract. and sharing cleaning services
We have Effective Procurement in Cumbria. EPIC provides opportunities to share purchasing data
Two simple examples are the joint Gas and Couriers contracts
Cumbria Asset Management Group CAMG
Blue Light Estate Managers Group
Fleet working with Cumbria FRS
For our staff we have a joint Lift Sharing scheme
Your officials have helped us develop a Cycle to Work scheme for our officers and staff
We both work together in the Connecting Cumbria partnership and we have both pooled Reward Grant money for our communities rather than spending it in silos on short term selfish schemes.

As you can see there is a lot going on between us. And what of the future. My commitment is to extend this our collaboration. Our residents demand it, our industries demand it, and clearly our budgets demand it.
As far as policing is concerned we will drive efficiencies and will be making savings whilst protecting our front line but delivering the best service we can.
What do we want from you?
Identify any opportunities, tell us when we get it wrong, tell us when we get it right, be creative and help to deliver the best policing possible
From me personally you will see a relentless support for the businesses, environment and beauty that is Cumbria.
I want to be part of promoting the county, it's history, it's businesses and it's people every way we can.
So in closing. It has been a challenging year, we are performing well. We want to build on our joint success and help create a Cumbria that is Safe to live in, where the police are Sensitive to its people and we help you create a Successful County in every way possible
Thank you