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Colourful new bins designed by local children brighten up Ipswich libraries

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Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Local children's artwork now adorns recycling bins outside two Ipswich libraries following a competition run by the council and Suffolk Libraries.

Why it matters: The initiative engages young people in keeping Ipswich tidy while promoting library services and recycling.

The big picture: Two dual bins outside Ipswich County Library and Gainsborough Community Library feature four winning designs from the "Brighten our Bins" competition.

  • The contest was open to children aged 14 and under.

  • Designs were themed around reading or recycling.

  • The new bins encourage separating recyclable and normal waste.

New bin at Gainsborough Library
New bin at Gainsborough LibraryIpswich Borough Council

What they're saying: Councillor Phil Smart, Ipswich Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Environment and Transport, said:

"Thank you to all the children and their families who took the time to enter this competition. It's been fantastic to see young people engaged in keeping Ipswich tidy and to see their love of reading come to life in their designs."

James Powell, Communications Manager at Suffolk Libraries, added:

"We were delighted to support this competition. It was wonderful to see so many colourful designs celebrating what our libraries mean to local children and the importance of recycling and keeping the local community clean and tidy."

Of note: The bin outside Ipswich County Library also celebrates the library's centenary, which is being marked with events, including a special exhibition that will run until the end of 2024.

What's next: Residents can find out more about visiting the libraries and Ipswich County Library's 100-year anniversary on the Suffolk Libraries website at suffolklibraries.co.uk.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Three more arrests in Billy McNicholl murder investigation

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Suffolk Constabulary's Major Investigation Team has made three new arrests following the murder of Billy McNicholl, bringing the total number of arrests to five.

Why it matters: The investigation into the death of 63-year-old William "Billy" McNicholl, who was found dead in a Hawthorn Drive property on 1 January, continues as police seek justice for the victim and his friends and family.

A Home Office post-mortem indicated McNicholl died from head injuries and a single stab wound.

William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog
William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog

The details: Three people were arrested on Tuesday 1 April – a 17-year-old boy, an 18-year-old man and a 41-year-old man – on suspicion of assisting an offender and being concerned in the supply of Class A and B drugs.

All three have been questioned at Martlesham Police Investigation Centre and subsequently bailed to return to police on 1 July.

What they're saying: Detective Inspector Mark Hughes said: "A large number of officers have been involved in the investigation and many people, including residents in the Hawthorn Drive area and surrounding streets, have either contacted us or have been spoken to by our officers. However, if anyone has any information that they are yet to share with police, I would ask them to do so, to help us find out what happened to Billy."

He added: "Our enquiry into his death and the work to bring those responsible to justice continues."

The bigger picture: On 22 January, a 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of murder. He has been bailed with conditions and is due to return to police on Tuesday, 22 April.

A woman in her 50s, previously arrested on suspicion of murder, has been told she will face no further action.

What's next: Crimestoppers is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information given anonymously that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.

Phil Breckon, Regional Manager at Crimestoppers, said: "Our charity is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information given exclusively to us that leads to the arrest, charge and conviction of anybody responsible for Billy's murder."

He added: "If you have information, however small, please speak up and tell Crimestoppers 100% anonymously. If you prefer not to talk to the police, you can tell us what you know, and we'll pass it on for you."

The reward will expire on 30 April 2025.

The bottom line: Police continue to appeal for anyone with information to contact them quoting reference 37/162/25, either via the Major Incident Public Reporting Portal, by calling 101, or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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