HuddleHub, Barrow in Furness (2024)

19/06/2024

Just in time for the good weather :) Harry Barker Properties Ltd have sand, gravel and stone for all your garden renovations, patio, drainage, driveways and general building work. Plus they can deliver. Contact Steve or check their page for more information.

17/06/2024

Good news for Walney Island residents.
VONEUS– bringing better broadband to communities across the UK
Voneus is rolling out its game changing gigabit broadband across Walney Island and will be available to more than 4,700 homes.
They specialise in bringing ultrafast, reliable broadband to communities across the UK, connecting homes and businesses in some of the hardest to reach areas. They provide ultrafast broadband in two ways via full fibre as well as their gigabit wireless networks, a state-of-the-art addition to their superfast fixed wireless service.

They first rolled out the network working with Hartlepool Council in December 2022 and after a successful trial they knew they could take this innovative solution to the next level. Walney Island will be their biggest GWA network to date.
Voneus have completed other GWA network builds in twelve other areas including North Yorkshire, Devon, Wiltshire, Pembrokeshire and Oxfordshire in the past 12 twelve months.

Work has already begun on the Island in the North Scale area. Voneus have a dedicated Walney Island page on their website where you can find out more about what they are doing and when. It’s going to take a few months to complete the network build and they will continue building in different areas throughout the summer. The Voneus team will commence work in the Vickerstown area very soon.
Using the lampposts to help transmit their broadband to your home, this state of the art technology uses line of sight radio signals and is designed to offer a superior service over traditional fixed wireless, whilst delivering the same speeds as their full fibre network, with symmetrical speeds up to 900Mb.
Reliable and ultrafast gigabit connectivity will support the continued economic development of Walney Island, with the rollout of the network being efficient and quick as it does not rely on digging up roads and blocking streets with road closures.

Voneus teams are out and about talking with residents, businesses and schools while also attending local events in order to better understand the unique challenges of our locality.

Decca Adams Head of Community Engagement for the North and he will be at the Round House Hub & Cafe, Biggar Bank, Walney Island on Wednesday 19th June from 1pm-3pm to answer any questions you might have.
You can also contact the team at [email protected]

Residents can also register their interest in receiving Voneus broadband – without any commitment – to unlock exclusive offers by emailing [email protected] and they will keep you updated with their plans.
Voneus are so confident you’ll love their ultrafast broadband they are giving you 3 months free! So you can be sure their network works seamlessly before you switch from your old provider. If you’re not sure when your current broadband contract ends you can find this on your bill or by giving them a quick call.
They also promise not to increase the price you pay each month for 24 months.

23/05/2024

Local Appeal - 23 May 2024

Walney
Police are investigating the theft of a VW Transporter which was taken from Biggar Bank Road, Walney on Friday 17th May after 3pm.
The vehicles VRM is YH07 GWU.
Anyone with information relating to this incident or has seen the vehicle can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it , quoting incident number 242 of 19 May 2024.
You can also phone on 101.
Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

16/05/2024

THIS SUNDAY 19th May from 1pm at the Round House Hub & Cafe, Biggar Bank Road, Walney Island, Barrow.
Pop along and enjoy the superb chilled out Ibiza vibes with Si Sax & Joel Talbot whilst raising funds for The Bluebell Foundation.
The weather forecast is looking good. Everyone is welcome.

16/05/2024

Continued police appeal for information as part of missing person investigation – Nigel Redshaw

Police are continuing to appeal for information on the whereabouts of missing Nigel Redshaw who has not been seen for around four weeks.
Nigel, 55, from Cheshire, was last seen on CCTV at Holgate Caravan Park in Silverdale on 17 April and was also seen at the Leighton Moss RSPB site on 18 April.
He is described as being around 6ft 1ins tall and has a long beard and long hair which is often tied in a ponytail. He was last seen wearing a blue Berghaus waterproof jacket and may be carrying a maroon-coloured rucksack.

Timeline of Nigel’s last known movements:
15 April – Nigel is collected from Lancaster train station by a friend at 7:20pm
16 April – Nigel goes missing from friend’s house in Low Gill
17 April – Nigel is seen on CCTV at Holgate Caravan Park between 10:30am – 12:56pm
18 April – Nigel is seen at Leighton Moss, Lancashire, by members of the public between 8:45am - 10:23am
22 April – Nigel is reported missing to police
Inspector Ross Woods, South Lakes Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Since Nigel was reported to us as missing we have conducted a full investigation to find him. A team of officers have conducted extensive CCTV enquiries and searches across the Arnside and Silverdale areas.
“Nigel is originally from Cheshire but has a footprint in all areas of Cumbria.
“We are growing considerably concerned for Nigel’s welfare and safety and would urge anyone who has seen Nigel or knows where he may be to get in touch.
“I would also like to appeal directly to Nigel to contact us and let us know you are safe.”
If you see Nigel please call 999.
Any other information which may assist can be provided online via www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it or by phone on 101.

14/05/2024

Local Appeal - 14 May 2024

Barrow
Police are appealing for witnesses after a vehicle fail to stop following a road traffic collision on Sunday 12 May at approximately 3:20pm at the junction of Risedale Road and Bridgegate Avenue, Barrow.
The collision involved a pedal cyclist and an unknown vehicle.
A male rider of the bicycle was hit from behind whilst turning onto Bridgegate Avenue and suffered injuries which required hospital treatment.
The vehicle failed to stop at the scene.
Anyone with information relating to this incident or who witnessed it can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it , quoting incident number 254 of 12 May 2024 .

You can also phone on 101.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

13/05/2024

Op Sceptre: Officers visiting schools to educate young on dangers of knives

Cumbria Constabulary will be educating young people and carrying out test purchasing operations as part of its support for a national, week-long knife crime campaign, beginning on Monday (13 May 2024).

Operation Sceptre is a national policing operation which aims to make streets safer across the country via a number of means including by providing the opportunity for potentially dangerous and harmful blades to be removed from our streets by giving people the opportunity to dispose of knives anonymously and safely in amnesty bins at local Police Stations.

During the week, police officers will be visiting local schools to help educate young people about the potential consequences that can result from carrying a knife, whilst neighbourhood policing team officers will be conducting test purchasing operations to ensure retailers are not selling knives to children.

Chief Inspector Steve Hunter said: “The Constabulary regularly supports Operation Sceptre and during the May week of action we will be concentrating our efforts on educating and informing young people, as well as ensuring that local commercial premises are aware of their responsibilities with regards the sale of knives.

“Knife crime impacts all communities and educating young people is a vital part of our efforts here in Cumbria as we work together to ensure the county remains one of the safest places in the country to live and visit."

Someone in possession of a knife is not only increasing the risk of harm to themselves but could also face a fine of £5,000 and a four-year prison sentence.

Ch Insp Hunter said: “Op Sceptre week includes an amnesty opportunity where people can bring in unwanted but potentially dangerous knives and other bladed articles, so they can be disposed of safely.

“It is a quick process and your action will help make your community a safer place.”

Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said: “Being in possession of a weapon means that you are more likely to use it or have it used against you– this is a risk none of us should take.

“Operation Sceptre is an incredibly positive, pro-active initiative that allows the public to hand over a potentially dangerous knife or bladed weapon without fear of repercussion.

“Knife crime can devastate multiple lives so I would urge anyone who is in possession of a sharp object that could be used as a weapon to hand it in to one of the Police boxes around the county.

“This is also a great opportunity to speak to our children about the risks around knife crime.

“Cumbria is a safe county so please help to keep it safe and protect our communities.”

Anyone wishing to hand a knife or bladed article in should put them in a box or strong bag. Never attempt to take an uncovered knife or bladed article out in public. Members of the public are also advised to go directly to a designated station when handing in such items.

The stations where you can hand your knives or bladed articles in are:

North
• Carlisle

South
• Barrow
• Kendal

West
• Whitehaven
• Workington

To check on opening times please visit: Find a police station | Cumbria Police

If you are worried about the someone who is in possession of a knife or need advice, please contact police or report anonymously via Crimestoppers.
You can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/reportit. You can also phone on 101.

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Always call 999 in an emergency and when a crime is in progress.

29/03/2024

Local Appeal
BARROW
Police are investigating a collision at West Shore Road, Walney Island.
It happened on March 27 at about 2.40pm near the junction with Derwent Bank.
A van was in collision with a cyclist.
The driver of the van did not stop at the scene to exchange details.
The cyclist had injuries to his hands and chest.
The van was described as a black-and-grey Renault, with red and yellow tape around the back of the vehicle.
Anyone with information is asked to report online via www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it - quoting incident 139 of March 27.
You can also call on 101.
Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

21/03/2024

Barrow receives three new dedicated Community Beat Officers

Barrow will now benefit from three new Community Beat Officers who have joined the wider Barrow Neighbourhood Policing Team.
All three officers officially started their roles on 18 March and will begin working within their neighbourhoods, getting to know the residents and business owners, over the next few weeks.
PC Chloe Dixon will be the dedicated beat officer for Dalton and Askam. Speaking on her new role PC Dixon said: “I joined Cumbria Constabulary in 2020 and since then I have worked as a response officer in Barrow and completed a policing degree.
“As part of my new role, my key priorities will be to build a good relationship with the local community and reduce crime, in particular anti-social behaviour and drug supply.
“I am looking forward to dedicating my time to the Dalton and Askam communities and providing a regular, visible police presence there.”
PC Rheannon Hackett will cover the Hindpool and town centre areas as part of her role. PC Hackett has been a police officer for six years and as Barrow local herself she said: “I have always loved working in my hometown because I am passionate about it and the people in it.
“I am looking forward to working in the heart Barrow and using the knowledge and experience I have gained whilst working as a response officer to work with the local community and business owners.
“I will be focussing on anti-social behaviour and crime in my area and I’m keen to know of any other key issues in my area. I know how hard people and small businesses work to improve Barrow and I can’t wait to be a part of that community.”
PC Greg Rogerson has been an officer with Cumbria for six years now and covers Roose, Salthouse and Newbarns.
Speaking on his new role he said: “I was born and grew up in Barrow and I know what a strong community can achieve.
“I look forward to becoming part of the community and helping people where I can".
Inspector Damien Mottram, of Barrow Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “I’m pleased to introduce three new Community Beat Officers to the area. Over the coming weeks they will begin work to establish themselves in their communities and understand some of the issues in their areas.
“As part of their roles, these officers will be able to provide a visible, reassuring police presence in their areas, deterring crime and also work with local residents and business owners to understand, prevent and detect crime and anti-social behaviour.
“PCs Dixon, Hackett and Rogerson are all experienced officers and I have no doubt they will provide excellent support to the policing team of Barrow and our partners.”

Photos: PC Chloe Dixon (left) PC Greg Rogerson (middle) PC Rheannon Hackett (right)

13/03/2024

SCAM ALERT!
We know that scammers are doing the rounds at the moment, and they have been contacting our Mother’s Day competition entrants.
It is not us. We will never ask you to click a link to win any of our competitions.
Please see below how smart these people are, but note the freesites.net is something to be alerted to.
Stay vigilant and please DO NOT CLICK ANY LINKS.

09/03/2024

ADMINISTRATOR – BARROW BRANCH

A role has arisen for a Full Time Administrator in our Barrow Branch to work within a long-established company.

Working Hours: 8.30 am to 4.30 pm. Monday to Friday inclusive.

Ideally you will have experience in the following:

• Computer literate, i.e., Word/Excel Spreadsheets etc.
• Administering and distribution electronically, of Charitable Donations and liaising with Charities on behalf of families.
• Prepare photo slideshows & Order of Service.
• Dealing sympathetically and courteously with bereaved families.
• General office duties.
• Assisting in the running of our own Trevelyan Chapel.
• Typing of obituary and acknowledgement notices accurately and grammatically correct for submission to local papers to a deadline.
• Raising invoices & preparing estimates.
• Adhere to work policies and uphold a professional and efficient working environment.
• Although this job is based in Barrow you may be required to cover staff holidays at any of our other branches.
This is a full-time position and will require someone with experience. Only candidates with
proven skills will be considered. In return you will benefit from:

• A highly competitive salary
• The opportunity to develop systems
• A permanent role in a successful business
Please call into either our Barrow or Dalton office for an application form. Only written applications will be considered.

Further details of the role can be obtained by emailing [email protected].
Closing Date: Tuesday 2nd April 2024

07/03/2024

Local Appeal

WALNEY
Police are appealing for information and witnesses following an incident where a dog bit a woman.
It happened on Saturday February 24 at about 7pm.
The woman was walking her dog on the beach near Furness Golf Club when a medium-brown dog ran over and attacked her dog.
She split them up but was bitten by the other dog on the arm. She needed hospital treatment.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police.
You can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it
You can also phone on 101.
Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

06/03/2024

MOTHERS' DAY COMPETITION WINNER!
CONGRATULATIONS TO Harriett Mccullough you have won a beautiful bouquet for your mum courtesy of Bluebell and Ivy
award winning florists.
With Mother's Day this Sunday 10th March, now is the time to order your beautiful bouquets and posies from Lauren and her team. Choose online, or from the Queen Street shop in Ulverston, or you can telephone 01229 215606/580004

06/03/2024

Cross-border operation run targeting rural crime

A cross-border operation targeting rural crime was held in Cumbria on Thursday 29 February.
Operation Checkpoint saw officers from across Cumbria participate during a week of action organised by Northumbria Police involving colleagues from across the North East region and Scotland.
The operation allows officers to work collaboratively to gain intelligence around rural crime, deterring offending and also helps to keep the county’s roads safe.
During the operation officers in Cumbria stopped 41 vehicles, searched six vehicles and ten people.
Two traffic offence reports were submitted with five vehicles uplifted – two for no tax, one Section 165 and two seized following their involvement in crime.
Officer also made three arrests. One man was arrested for theft of motor vehicle and drugs offences near Carlisle, and two men were arrested near to Penrith on suspicion of theft of trailer, driving offences, obstruction and police assault.

All three men are from out of the County and have been released on police bail pending further enquiries.
Sergeant Amanda McKirdy, from Cumbria Constabulary’s Rural Crime Team, said: “We are not slowing down in our efforts to make Cumbria a hostile environment for those that travel here to commit crime.
“The Rural Crime Team were joined by partners and officers across Cumbria including those from Response, Neighbourhood Policing, Tactical Support Group, Road Crime Unit and Cumbria’s dog section.
“As well as stopping a number of vehicles we also submitted 12 pieces of intelligence, which help us build a bigger picture.
“I hope that the activity we have been undertaking is reassuring our communities that we are listening to them, and action is being taken. We will continue to show contempt for all types of rural crime and those criminals intent on committing it.

“However, we continue to need the support of our rural communities, this area is under reported and we encourage our communities to be vigilant and report any crimes and any suspicious activity to we can direct our resources accordingly.”
Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, said: “This has been yet another superb Police Operation to take criminals out of communities and bring them to justice. A clear illustration if it were needed that we have an effective Police Force dedicated to bearing down on criminals who may mistakenly think they can operate in our county and rural areas.
“We are now starting to really see and feel the effect of the increased officer numbers which have enabled us to establish the Rural Crime Team who together with Roads and Neighbourhood Policing teams are tackling criminals hard to make our communities even safer. Our rural areas may be extensive but they are policed and with the help of residents we will continue to keep them safe but a hostile environment for crime and criminals.
“I am extremely grateful for the superb work of all officers involved in this operation and look forward to many more!
“Keeping Cumbria safe is a community effort. We can all help and we really need the public to be eyes and ears on the ground, the more information the police have, the better they can target operations.
“I would urge residents to report anything that seems suspicious to 101 or 999 in an emergency.
“Together we can make Cumbria an even safer place to live.”
The Rural Crime Police Team have a dedicated page here - https://www.facebook.com/cumbriapoliceruralcrimeteam where the team will highlight issues, incidents, and advice on how our communities can keep themselves safe.
You can report information online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it or you can call 101. In an emergency or if you witness a crime in action, please call 999.
To report information completely anonymously, contact the charity CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.
Operation Lantern is the constabulary’s dedicated operation to target rural crime within Cumbria. The operation aims to prevent and disrupt serious and organised rural acquisitive crime that occurs in our county.

01/03/2024

Local Appeal
BARROW
Police are investigating an incident of common assault that took place on 24 February 2024 between 12:25am and 1am in the area of Duke Street, Barrow, outside The Meeting Place pub.

It is reported that a female, wearing all black clothing, assaulted the victim who is described as a white female, with brown hair in a ponytail, wearing a blue puffer jacket and jeans. The victim sustained an injury of swelling above the right eye.

Officers are appealing for any information relating to the incident or anyone who may have witnessed it to come forward.

Anyone with information relating to this incident can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it , quoting incident number 07 of 24 February. You can also phone on 101.
Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

29/02/2024

Man charged with drug supply offence after stop in Barrow

A man has been charged with drug supply after officers proactively stopped a vehicle on School Street in Barrow last night (28 February).
Officers seized around £1500 of suspected co***ne during the search of the vehicle.
Olgert Sinaj, 22, of no fixed address, was charged with possession with intent to supply co***ne.
He is due to appear before South Cumbria Magistrates Court today (29 February).
Another man in his 30s was also arrested and has been release on bail.
The seizure forms part of forms part of Operation Alliance - Cumbria Constabulary’s ongoing response to protect the county against serious and organised crime.

28/02/2024

MOTHERS' DAY COMPETITION
Win a beautiful bouquet for your mum courtesy of Bluebell and Ivy florists
To be in with a chance of winning simply like and share this post and tell us why your mum deserves to win fabulous flowers courtesy of the award winning florist Blubell & Ivy.

With Mother's Day on Sunday 10th March, now is the time to start ordering your beautiful bouquets and perfect posies.
Lauren Hart and her team offer professional advice and a vast selection of gorgeous arrangements which are available to buy online, from their busy Queen Street shop in Ulverston, or you can telephone them on 01229 215606/580004

23/02/2024

County lines drug duo jailed

Detectives tackling the issue of county lines drugs crime in Barrow have secured jail sentences for another two offenders.
Sean Ruud, 36, and David McMurray, 43, were imprisoned following an investigation by officers in Westmorland and Furness.
Their sentencing, at Preston Crown Court, comes as part of Operation Alliance – Cumbria Police’s dedicated overall operation protecting the county against serious and organised crime.
Ruud, of York Road, Huyton Merseyside , was jailed for three years and nine months. He admitted conspiracy to supply crack co***ne and he**in.
McMurray, of Thames Road, Walney, Barrow In Furness, was jailed for two years and six months. He admitted conspiracy to supply crack co***ne and he**in.
They were caught by detectives investigating the supply of drugs into Barrow from Merseyside in October 2021.
The investigation was linked to an organised crime group that branded itself “Real Jackkk”.
County lines drugs crime involves the use of a phone number to make contacts with drug users.
One of the messages sent by the “Real Jackkk” line boasted: “Best in town real jackkk”.
Between October 19 and 20, 2021, officers were aware the line was active in Barrow, sending advert messages to drug users.
Investigations led to a drugs warrant being executed in the town and the two being arrested.
Phone evidence was among the evidence that cracked the case. £5,000 cash was also seized following the warrant.
Speaking after the sentencing, Detective Sergeant Jamie Dickens said: “We know the concerns people have about offences such as this - and we always take a serious stance on county lines drugs criminals exploiting and targeting our communities in Barrow.
“We will do everything in our powers to catch these offenders and disrupt their groups.
“The support of the public in reporting such offences continues to be a key tool to allow us to stop these criminals.
“We encourage people to get in touch with any information that might help us.”
Do you have information that can help us?
Anyone with information can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it
You can also phone on 101.
Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Photo L-R Sean Ruud and David McMurray

22/02/2024

Football fans encouraged to enjoy Barrow vs Bradford match responsibly

Police are teaming up with Barrow AFC to urge fans to enjoy this weekend’s match with Bradford City responsibly.

A bumper crowd is expected to attend Saturday’s League Two clash at the SO Legal Stadium and officers are appealing for fans to not let emotions spill into criminal activity.

Superintendent Sarah Jones said: “We are all looking forward to what will hopefully be a great event for both sets of supporters.

“We are expecting a large crowd, therefore there will be a significant policing presence in and around the stadium and town centre on Saturday. As with any high-profile event we will be on hand to ensure the safety of everyone.

"Whilst we appreciate the passion people have for their football team we are asking fans to remain respectful, responsible and mindful of others to ensure everyone can enjoy the match.

"Where an individual engages in unlawful behaviour, the police will step in and take action.”

A spokesperson for Barrow AFC said: "We look forward to welcoming Bradford on Saturday at the SO Legal Stadium.

"We understand the passions of both supporters when it comes to football. However, we do ask that both sets of supporters respect players, staff, and fans at all times.

“Your support this season has been brilliant, and we can’t wait to welcome you back through the turnstiles on Saturday in what should be a fantastic afternoon of football."

14/02/2024

Congratulations Leanne Crooks you have won two free tickets to the KOW - Knockout Wrestling show.
Tickets are still on sale for this Saturday’s show 🤼‍♀️

13/02/2024

Barrow
Police are investigating a burglary that took place on Friday 9th February 2024 at around 7am, where a blue Specialised mountain bike and orange/black KTM motorbike were stolen from the garage attached to a property in Redoak Avenue, Barrow.
If you have any information regarding this incident that would assist police with the investigation can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it quoting incident number 54 of 9 February 2024. You can also phone on 101. Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

12/02/2024

Local Appeal
Barrow
Police are investigating an incident of criminal damage which occurred on Buccleuch Street, Barrow near to the junction of Whittaker Street. The incident occurred on Sunday 4 February 2024 at 9:36pm.
Police are appealing for any witnesses to contact officers.
Anyone with information can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it , quoting incident number 224 of 4 February 2024.
You can also phone on 101.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

11/02/2024

WIN TWO TICKETS
To be in with a chance to win 2 tickets to see the fabulous Knockout Wrestling show simply tell us what you love about wrestling and who you would like to take with you .

The popular KOW - Knockout Wrestling show is being held this coming Saturday 17th February at Cloud Nine, Barrow-in-Furness. Doors open at 6pm.

11/02/2024

Local Appeal
Barrow
Police are investigating a reported shoplifting, which occurred on Friday 9th February 2024 at 7:29pm, at Tesco, Hindpool Road, Barrow-in-Furness.

bottles of alcohol were reported as taken during the incident.

The reported incident involved two males in their late 20's early 30's.

Male one is described as white, around five foot six in height and of slim build. He was wearing black skinny jeans, a dark brown jacket with a fur lined hood and white trainers.

Male two is described as white, five foot eight in height and of medium build. He was wearing a black fleece top with grey jogging bottoms and black trainers.

Police are asking for anyone who witnessed the incident, or who can help identify either of the two men to contact police.

Anyone with information relating to this incident can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it, quoting incident number 142 of 10th of February 2024. You can also phone on 101.

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

05/02/2024

Local Appeal
Dalton
Police are investigating an incident of assault that occurred on Thursday 4 January at around 8pm outside the Red Lion Hotel on Market Street, Dalton-in-Furness.
A male and a female were heard to be shouting at each other before it is alleged that the male proceeded to push the female, resulting in no injury. Police are looking for any witnesses to the assault.
Anyone with information relating to this incident can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it, quoting incident number 191 of 4 January 2024.
You can also phone on 101.
Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

03/02/2024

Nine members of Kendal-Merseyside crime group jailed

Nine members of an Organised Crime Group (OCG) who trafficked over a kilogram of Class A drugs between Merseyside and Kendal and the South Lakes - and caused devastation to local communities with their extra-strong he**in - have been jailed today (2 February 2023) at Carlisle Crown Court.
The investigation involved officers from Kendal and Lakes Neighbourhood Policing Team and detectives from the Community Serious and Organised Crime Unit working in close partnership to dismantle the ‘Scouse Tom’ OCG, after launching Operation Forfeit in January 2022.
Those sentenced today at Carlisle Crown Court include:
• Ryan Norton, 25, of HMP Northumberland. Norton was jailed for eight years and eight months
• Adam Taylor-Morgan, 22, of Kings Road, St Helens. Morgan was jailed for five years and eight months
• Taylor Green, 18 of Bretherton Court, Ratcliffe Place, St Helens. Green was jailed for four-and-a-half years.
• Natalie Underhill, 32, formerly of Sandown Court, Avenham Lane, Preston. Underhill was jailed for 35 months.
• Lisa O’Brien, 43, of Vicars Fields, Kendal. O’Brien was jailed for five years
• Sharon Hayton, 55, formerly of Bonner Court, Kendal. Hayton was jailed for 44 months
• Ashley Cudlipp, 30, of no fixed abode. Cudlipp was jailed for 32 months
• Martin Hornby, 47, of Main Street, Flookburgh. Hornby was jailed for 40 months
• Levi Dixon, 33, of Claife Avenue, Windermere. Dixon was jailed for 26 months
A tenth defendant - Carol McLean - is due to be sentenced at a later date.
All pleaded guilty at earlier hearings.

Operation Forfeit
Between August 2021 and January 2022 officers from Kendal and Lakes Neighbourhood Policing Team conducted a number of warrants and positive stop-searches against ‘Scouse Tom’ street dealers, recovering supply amounts of Class A drugs, cash, and key mobile phones.
In January 2022 intelligence work identified the common link between the street dealers and Operation Forfeit was launched to target the OCG, with NPT officers and Serious/Organised Crime detectives working in partnership to identify the upper tier of the OCG as well as continuing to disrupt the OCG’s operations at street level.
By March 2022 each member of the OCG had been identified and the investigation team were closing in on the OCG’s leadership and key facilitators - culminating in the arrest of Adam Taylor-Morgan who was stopped with over £7000 in cash, having just left the home of Martin Hornby.
Detectives evidenced Ryan Norton - who at the time of the conspiracy was serving his second prison sentence for Class A drug supply - was running the operation from a prison cell in HMP Barlinnie using a series of smuggled mobile phones. Other members of the OCG fulfilled various roles, including:
Adam Taylor-Morgan - who operated the ‘graft’ drug advertisement phone, restocked the Kendal/Lakes OCG with drugs, collected the cash proceeds of drug supply, and was Norton’s ‘right-hand man’.
Taylor Green - who was a trusted ‘drug dealer for hire’ brought in from Aberdeen to run the OCG’s ground operations after police disruption action started making inroads into the OCG’s activities and profits in January 2022.
Natalie Underhill - who restocked the Kendal/Lakes OCG with drugs and laundered money through her bank account.
Martin Hornby - who stored drug restocks at his home, housed senior Merseyside OCG members, and operated as a street dealer.
Sharon Hayton, Levi Dixon, Lisa O’Brien, and Ashley Cudlipp - who worked as street dealers across the conspiracy period.

Our message to those involved in county lines drugs crime
Speaking after sentencing, Detective Inspector Jamie Eaton said: “Operation Forfeit was a significant operation which spanned many months.
“The aim was to disrupt and dismantle this Merseyside-based group trafficking Class A drugs into the Kendal and South Lakes area. Today’s substantial custodial sentences should serve as a warning to those thinking about establishing similar operations in our communities - we will catch you.
“We take a serious stance on county lines drugs criminals exploiting and targeting our communities and we will do everything in our power to put an end to these gangs operating in Cumbria.
DI Eaton continued: “Bringing ten offenders to justice meant this was a challenging and complex investigation from the start but the dedication and perseverance of the officers involved resulted in the great result we saw at court today, substantial quantities of Class A drugs prevented from reaching our communities, and the seizure of significant quantities of cash.
“We are not complacent and recognise before too long another group will be foolish enough to try their hand. The support of our communities in reporting drug dealing is a key tool in tackling organised criminality and we encourage members of the public to get in touch with any information that might help us."

Anyone with information about drugs offences can call police on 101 or report online at cumbria.police.uk.

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