Sale Sharks boss Steve Diamond wasn't getting carried away after his team beat Saints 39-18 at the AJ Bell Stadium on Saturday.

The Sharks bagged a bonus-point victory in the Premiership Rugby Cup opener, which served as a curtain raiser for England's domestic season.

Saints gave it their all and replied through tries from Teimana Harrison and Alex Coles, but they rarely looked like claiming the win.

That was to be expected as Sale named a far more experienced side, which included several summer recruits.

And Diamond was pleased with the efforts of his side, particularly during the formative stages of the game.

"We played reasonably well and in the first 20 minutes I thought we were clinical," Diamond said.

"We could have been a few more scores up but overall I was pretty pleased and it was a good step forward for us.

"We've got a good squad, strength in depth and we can afford to change the front row now.

"But we're not getting carried away, it was a good run-out for both teams and we're happy."

The 32-year-old joined the club from Worcester Warriors during the summer of 2010 and has gone on to become a key figure at Franklin's Gardens.

Wood has so far made 191 appearances for the black, green and gold, scoring 18 tries in the process.

He was a key member of the sensational double-winning season of 2013/14, helping the club to Premiership and European Challenge Cup glory.

And Wood will now look forward to using his testimonial year to raise funds for Restart Rugby and the Saints Foundation.

"Delighted and humbled to have been granted a testimonial in this my 10th season for @officialnorthamptonsaints," Wood wrote on Instagram.

"I have an awesome committee that have been beavering away making plans on my behalf and I’m excited to share our calendar of events and merchandise in the coming weeks.

"Please follow the testimonial account @woodyat6sand7s for updates etc. we will be supporting @saintsfdation and @restartrugby two worthy causes doing great work close to home and I hope we can raise both money and awareness in order that they can continue that work.

"Thank you all in advance and I look forward to catching up and mingling with u all throughout the season. #squadfather #milesontheclock."

The first event in Wood's testimonial year will be on November 2 as a World Cup breakfast is hosted in the Champion's Suite at the Gardens.

Wood and team-mates past and present will be in attendance to watch the World Cup final.

Fans can enjoy a breakfast with expert comment on rugby's biggest game.

Welcome drinks are from 7.30am, followed by Q&A's.

For tickets, head to https://www.tomwoodtestimonial.com/event-info/world-cup-final-breakfast

On a sunny day in Costa del Salford, the game between Sale Sharks and Saints was something of a damp squib.

Yes, there were plenty of points, predominantly for the home side, but the result never really looked in doubt.

When Saints did manage to put some scoreboard pressure on their more experienced hosts, they were let down by passing inaccuracies.

The most costly came just after the break as Saints, who had scored just before half-time to reduce the deficit to 15-8, handed Rohan Janse van Rensburg an intercept try.

It was a fine finish from the barrel-chested centre, who showed impressive speed to sprint in from halfway.

But it inspired plenty of regret for Saints at a time in the match when they really needed to build on the momentum given to them by Teimana Harrison's 37th minute try.

Saints often got up a head of steam only to let the ball slip from their grasp to give the home side a way out or, worse, a chance to score.

But it was understandable given that this was an extremely new combination of players for the black, green and gold.

And with ambition always the name of the game at Saints these days, players were going to push the boundaries in the bid to break down a solid Sale defence.

This was a hugely valuable lesson for the away side, but, almost as importantly, it was a chance to get tough minutes into as many men as possible.

Because although Saints would love to retain their Premiership Rugby Cup crown, it is far from the be-all and end-all this season.

They have bigger fish to fry at home and abroad, having returned to the Champions Cup and also been buoyed by the belief of their top-four finish in the Premiership last season.

They will expect to push the likes of Wasps and Saracens closer in the cup in the coming weeks as the squad continues to be shuffled around to give game time to everyone.

But even if the results do not come, what matters most is that Saints are in the right shape, mentally and physically, for that Premiership opener at Saracens on October 18.

They would savour a couple of cup successes to help with that process, but not qualifying from the pool stages may just be a blessing without the disguise.

Because this season promises to be one of the most brutal and relentless in recent memory and they would not be averse to taking a couple of weeks off later in the campaign when the semi-finals and finals take place in this competition.

Of course, the players won't be thinking like that - they want to, and expect to, win every game. And so they should.

But the point is that losing games at this point is not the end of the world.

These weeks are learning curves for a squad that is developing quickly under the current management.

Trips to Sale are notoriously tough, and even more so this year with the firepower the home team have added over the summer.

They will be aiming to compete for a top-four spot with the likes of Saints this season.

And while they have landed the first blow, Saints are far from down, and even further from out.

How they rated...

TOMMY FREEMAN

Really impressed against Leinster nine days earlier and though he got caught isolated here a couple of times, he showed some promising signs again... 5

OLLIE SLEIGHTHOLME

Was one of the better Saints backs as he made a couple of huge hits in defence, showing how he has added extra power during the summer, and he also played a key role in setting up Harrison's try... 7

FRASER DINGWALL

Wasn't able to have the kind of influence on the game that he often does and cut a frustrated figure when leaving the field... 5

REUBEN BIRD-TULLOCH

Clearly has plenty to offer Saints this season and though a couple of passes didn't quite stick, he did reasonably well... 6

RYAN OLOWOFELA

Looked so sharp against Leinster and tried to use his pace again here, but Sale shut down the space out wide well... 5

JAMES GRAYSON

Missed a couple of kicks he would have expected to make and an ambitious pass or two went astray, but he never gave up... 5

CONNOR TUPAI

Has already shown flashes of class for Saints this year and it was the same again here as he looked to start counter-attacks... 6

BEN FRANKS

Has taken on the loosehead role this season and he did his best to give Saints some cut and thrust against a powerful Sale pack, but it was a difficult day for all... 5

MICHAEL VAN VUUREN

Made his Saints debut and didn't do too much wrong as he looks to stake an early claim for more starts in a competitive area of the team... 5

PAUL HILL

Always gives everything for the cause and that was the same here, but Sale were able to get the upper hand to earn a key penalty try... 5

ALEX COLES

Not the result he wanted on his birthday, but the lofty lock enhanced his reputation with a strong showing that was capped with a try... 7

LEWIS BEAN

Will certainly be an asset for Saints this season and his raw physicality was there for all to see at the AJ Bell Stadium... 7

TOM WOOD

Relished the scrap with a strong Sale pack and never took a backward step as he tried to wrestle some control for Saints... 6

TEIMANA HARRISON

Etched his name on the scoresheet in yet another tireless display for his team, leading from the front as he promised... 7

MITCH EADIE

Will have relished the chance to get some first-team minutes under his belt but couldn't get the result he wanted... 6

Replacements (who played more than 20 minutes)

EHREN PAINTER (for Hill 40)

His presence was useful in the contact area, particularly as Saints tried to knock loudly on the door in attack, but Sale kept their foot on the gas... 5

JAMES FISH (for van Vuuren 45)

Will hope for another big season at Saints, but this was not an easy game to come into and have a real impact... 5

HENRY TAYLOR (for Olowofela 48)

Looked sharp, just as he had against Leinster, and the signs are good from the former Saracens scrum-half... 6

DEVANTE ONOJAIFE (for Wood 58)

Did some tidy work to set up the try for Coles, showing real composure under pressure, and this was a decent cameo... 6

WILL DAVIS (for Franks 59)

Didn't have too much time to have an impact on the game as it was already drifting away when he came on... 5

A 14-year old girl who was attacked by three girls in Daventry was helped out by two passers-by.

Police are investigating the assault and are appealing for the two adults to contact them because they are potential witnesses.

The 14-year old was walking to a park at 6.30pm on Saturday, September 21, when she was attacked by three girls on a footpath that runs behind Ashby Fields primary school, off Wimborne Place.

The footpath is close to Cabot Close and the underpass beneath Northern Way.

The girl was on her way to meet a friend when the incident happened.

The two adults who intervened are described as a white man in his late 50s. He is thought to be around 5ft 9in tall, of slim build and short grey hair. He was wearing a light blue stripey top.

The other passer-by was a white woman thought to be in her early 40s, around 5ft 7in with short blonde hair in a ponytail.

She was wearing a black top and was walking a medium sized dog who has a fluffy grey coat with brown patches.

Any witnesses or anyone with information should call Northamptonshire Police on 101 or they can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Former Leeds United striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink slammed the Whites following their 1-1 draw with Derby County, claiming the side need to be 'more mature' to grind out wins and earn promotion. (Sky Sports)

Leeds United are said to battling it out with Birmingham City for Coventry City's 19-year-old full-back Sam McCallum, who has been excelling in League One this season. (Football Insider)

Middlesbrough are said to have joined Crystal Palace and Leicester City in the race to land Wolves defender Cameron John, who is currently on loan at Doncaster Rovers. (Daily Mail)

Bristol City boss Lee Johnson has revealed he will look into securing a new free agent striker, after losing Stoke City loanee Benik Afobe to a season-ending knee injury. (Bristol Post)

Sheffield Wednesday ace Kadeem Harris has backed his side to upset Everton in the Carabao Cup this week, claiming that sticking to the game plan will give them the best chance. (Sheffield Star)

Nottingham Forest are rumoured to be plotting a January move for Exeter winger Randell Williams. The 22-year-old has made five assists in ten league games so far this season. (Team Talk)

Australian side Western Sydney Wanderers are understood to have ended their interest in Blackburn Rovers' veteran striker Danny Graham, after bring in ex-Eintracht Frankfurt sensation Alexander Meier instead. (The 72)

Huddersfield Town's new manager Danny Cowley has claimed that his side have 'forgotten how to win', following their demoralising 4-2 loss to West Bromwich Albion on Sunday. (BBC Sport)

Reading look to have been dealt a worrying injury blow, after key defender Michael Morrison left the stadium wearing a protective boot after damaging his ankle in a 2-1 loss to Blackburn. (Get Reading)

Alan Dickens picked out a few key performers from Saints' defeat at Sale Sharks last Saturday.

The Sharks fielded a strong side and eventually prevailed in the Premiership Rugby Cup opener, winning 39-18.

Teimana Harrison and Alex Coles scored for Saints, but it wasn't to be as they were eventually beaten.

And when asked who he felt had impressed for the black, green and gold, defence coach Dickens said: "Week in, week out for a good few seasons now, Teimana has led from the front.

"I thought Henry Taylor had an impact when he came on, and another one who did very well was Alex Coles.

"We held the ball well late on for the try that we scored and Alex had three or four carries in that passage of play.

"Beany (Lewis Bean) started really well and he was positive with his carries early doors. With his very first carry, he sat someone down.

"He's on a steep learning curve and he will have learned a lot from that game.

"He will get better and better because he's made the step up to the Premiership."

Saints now return home to face Wasps on Saturday.

And when asked whether it will be another opportunity to shuffle their squad, Dickens said: "Of course it will be.

"You look at the results through the competition last weekend and a lot of teams are doing that.

"It will be an introduction of a lot of players who did play last week.

"We've got Wasps this week and we'll look forward to having a home fixture."

Ervijs Baltins, from Essex, was pursued by police after he left the Watford Gap Services near Daventry and sped off northbound on the southbound side of the carriageway.

The unmarked police car in pursuit watched as the 31-year-old went the wrong way around a roundabout before stopping and trying to flee from police on foot.

However, Northampton Magistrate's Court heard today (September 23) how officers "quickly arrested" Baltins because he was "badly intoxicated".

Northamptonshire Police was unable to take a blood or urine sample to discover why the 31-year-old was intoxicated.

The court heard how the offence also breached a 48-month driving ban Baltins had been handed in 2018, and he was driving a friend's car at the time.

The 31-year-old pleaded guilty to dangerous driving. He was released on bail and ordered to appear in Northampton Crown Court on October 25 for sentencing.

As part of his bail, Baltins was banned from entering Northamptonshire until his court date.

Michaela, from London, was first out of the hat to scoop an Audio-Technica LP3 turntable, Alaqeia interconnects, a VP platter mat and VP DustBuster stylus cleaner.
She said she was “absolutely thrilled” as she collected her prize at the UK Audio Show 2019 at the Woodland Grange hotel, Leamington Spa, at the weekend (September 21-22).
Michaela is pictured receiving her goodies from Mark Sears of The Missing Link and Vinyl Passion.
The audio show, organised by the Chester Group, brought together some of the biggest names in audio to demonstrate the latest world class hi-fi gear.

Northants batting coach David Sales says his side could not have hoped for a better start at Gloucestershire.

The County have already claimed two of the four bonus points they need to make sure of promotion from Specsavers County Championship Division Two.

Rain brought an early end to day one, with Gloucestershire struggling on 80 for six.

Ben Sanderson has bagged two for 19, with Gareth Berg (1-8) and Doug Bracewell (1-17) adding to two run-outs.

And Sales said: "The day may have been cut short, but it has still been a very good one for us.

"We came into the game needing four points (for promotion) and we already have two of them.

"We're in a pretty good position all in all.

"To take six wickets before lunch is a really good return and we could not have asked for anything better than that.

"Ben Sanderson has been so consistent for a number of seasons now and he and Brett Hutton make a great opening partnership.

"They put the ball in the right areas and Ben was rewarded with a couple of wickets.

"There's not a great deal in the pitch, but he seems able to take wickets wherever and whenever this season.

"We've done a lot better with the bat this year and we know that, when the time comes, we will have to apply ourselves to get in.

"Once you get in, then it's a matter of building partnerships and making the opposition pay. That's something we've done well this season and we need to carry that on."

Northants started the day sitting second, five points ahead of Gloucestershire, who occupy the final promotion place.

And Gloucestershire all-rounder Ben Charlesworth said: "It's been difficult for us batting first at Bristol this season, but this is essentially a good wicket.

"It's not an 80 for six wicket and it's fair to say we haven't had a lot of luck.

"The two run outs were unfortunate and served to set us back.

"We're on the back foot, but there is still plenty of batting left and our first target has to be to try to pass 200.

"David Payne and Josh Shaw have scored runs on a regular basis this summer and there is no reason why we cannot get to a challenging total once the weather relents.

"The rain is frustrating, especially when you have one eye on what is happening in other games and cannot get out in the middle yourself.

"It's important we don't focus on what is going on at Durham to the detriment of our own performance.

"We know what we need in terms of points and we have to be very single-minded in that respect.

"We'll dust ourselves down and come back fighting."

Two former Saints players have made the move to Scarlets ahead of the start of the Guinness PRO14 season.

Lock Juandre Kruger and fly-half Ryan Lamb have been drafted in by the Welsh outfit as cover due to World Cup absences.

Kruger, who made 35 Premiership appearances for Saints between 2008 and 2010, joins from French giants Toulon.

The 34-year-old has signed a contract until the end of November before he links up with the Bulls in Super Rugby.

Lamb collected 37 Premiership appearances at Saints before leaving the club for Leicester Tigers during the summer of 2013.

The 33-year-old also had spells with London Irish and Worcester Warriors before heading across the Channel to play two years at La Rochelle.

He was part of the La Rochelle squad that reached the Champions Cup quarter-finals in 2018.

And Scarlets head coach Brad Mooar said: “Not only outstanding players with vast experience, Juandre and Ryan are also top men who are driven to learn and give to the environment they are playing in.

"That combination makes them the perfect players to complement our squad over the RWC period.

"We are thrilled to welcome them and their families to the Scarlets.”

The unknown offender/s tried to gain entry to a property in High Street, Silverstone, sometime between 10.30pm and 1am.

Witnesses or anyone with information should contact Northamptonshire Police on 101.

Following an FOI request by Buzz Bingo, these are the top 10 most complained about TV shows in Britain from 1 June 2018 to 31 May 2019.

No play was possible on day two of the Specsavers County Championship match between division two promotion rivals Northants and Gloucestershire at Bristol.

Umpires Mike Burns and David Millns staged three inspections before deciding the outfield was unfit, finally abandoning play for the day at 3.35pm.

Gloucestershire will hope to resume their first innings on 80 for six in the morning, with Ben Charlesworth and Graeme van Buuren unbeaten on 35 and five respectively.

Northants require a further two points to guarantee promotion to division one.

For many rugby-loving youngsters, playing profesionally is a childhood dream.

But that certainly wasn't the case for Lewis Bean.

In fact, he wasn't even a rugby lover until he started to learn to play during his time in the Army.

But after a journey that has taken him from the Army-Navy game to Birmingham Moseley and to Worcester Warriors, Bean has finally arrived at Franklin's Gardens.

And the 27-year-old couldn't be happier after winning a deal following some strong showings in training and for the Wanderers.

"I'm enjoying it a lot, I've settled in well and I'm loving the club and the lads here," Bean said. "I'm just happy to be here.

"I've been through the Army age groups, I made my way into the senior team and after my first Army-Navy game (in 2017) I went on to play for Birmingham Moseley.

"I went on to play for Worcester and from there to here.

"When I was in the Army I had no real interest in rugby really.

"I didn't think about it until they taught me how to play and I started progressing through the Army age setups.

"When you get better and better it was a bit like 'let's see how far I can go' but I never thought I'd be playing for Northampton Saints.

"Training with the squad and playing for the Wanderers was a real good experience for me and getting my contract here and doing pre-season has just been awesome.

"It's really coming on well and I'm learning stuff every day with the players and coaches around me.

"It's just great to get on the pitch for the club.

"There's always work-ons but the coaches are always encouraging and it's just about getting the confidence to play at this level, which is great.

"I'm not the finished article and I've just got to work on the small things really."

Having grown up in the disciplined environment the Army provides, Bean hasn't taken long to adapt to life at Saints.

"It (the Army background) helps me a lot and I was surprised how much the Army and rugby environments have in common," he said.

"I've been able to fit in quite well, which is great.

"When I came here, the lads slotted me straight into the group.

"We have a laugh every day and we try to make it a fun environment but also a learning one.

"We're always pushing standards but at the same time we make it fun so it's not a chore.

"Every day I come into work and from the minute I get here I'm having a laugh.

"People want to be here and they want to do well for the club."

Bean made his first competitive appearance for Saints last Saturday as he started in the 39-18 Premiership Rugby Cup defeat to Sale Sharks at the AJ Bell Stadium.

"We've got to take what we've learned from that game and make things right," Bean said.

"We've got a home game this week and it will be amazing to play at Franklin's Gardens because we've got really good fans and a really good culture.

"I've watched a few games from the stands and thought how amazing it is so it will be good to get on the field with the lads."

Rifleman Bean, still technically a serving soldier who has been given time off to pursue his rugby career, will add plenty of leadership while on the field, having previously been in far tougher battles.

"The Army are really supportive," Bean said. "I joined at 18 and went on my first tour at 19," Bean explained.

"I've been part of numerous overseas excercises and as an infantry section commander you're down there and it's good. I loved it.

"I've been on two Afghan tours (serving in Helman Province and Kabul) and I've been all over the world with the Army: France, Canada, Africa, America.

"Now I'm taking things year by year on a rolling contract and I'm seeing how I go here."

Birmingham. It's a place for a good night out, certainly. A shopping destination, definitely. But it may not feature very highly on lists of obvious places to spend a weekend. That plainly needs to change.

My time in Edgbaston converted me from something of a Brumosceptic to an evangelist for the place. It was only a couple of days but it made me see the city afresh.

For the uninitiated, Edgbaston is more than just a cricket ground. It feels like a small town in its own right, and an especially attractive one at that: green, spacious and replete with fine architecture, most notably its assortment of Regency villas. It has been known since the 19th century as "where the trees begin," and it is striking how suddenly Edgbaston appears: turn off the hectic A456 and you're suddenly in a very different world. If you had just been teleported there, you would have no idea you were only a mile or so from Broad Street.

The area in which we were staying has come to be known as Edgbaston Village. It is quiet enough to merit its name but surely few villages boast quite so much to do. We checked in to The Edgbaston Boutique Hotel and were instantly bedazzled; it is a beautifully executed homage to 1920s glamour and style. It is far from the bling overload it might have been in lesser hands; rather, it is an exercise in bold elegance, its attention to detail never failing to impress, from its crockery to its teapots to its music. It avoids the twee and the kitsch, embracing the vibrant and the modern. And as befits the era to which it pays tribute, it prides itself on its cocktails, the menu for which is quite breathtakingly exhaustive and its signature drink being The Edgbaston, blending raspberry Tanqueray gin, Lanique rose, rose champagne, English garden aromatics and fresh lemon.

The Edgbaston Boutique Hotel has 20 rooms. Ours was as comfortable and well-appointed as we could have wished for, its decor again immaculate, a gorgeous sash window inviting plenty of light and with the rather daring feature of a bath a few feet from the bed - and not in the bathroom. It was all rather swish and striking.

Having settled in, we made our way over to one of the treasures of Edgbaston: Winterbourne House and Garden. The Edwardian property was built in the Arts and Crafts style for John Nettlefold, a pioneer of housing reform in Birmingham. His family devoted themselves to good deeds but were no mere do-gooders: they involved themselves not just in relieving the plight of poor people, but in reimagining and rebuilding their environment, with all the benefits of fresh air and open space. Their house was designed and constructed most lovingly, and it has a tremendously warm, welcoming and humane atmosphere, quite different from the distant feel of more aristocratic abodes. Its sense of great care carries in to its botanical garden, a gloriously colourful and soulful place, which is grade II-listed. Its paths and lawns abound with delightful features, including its Japanese bridge and Nut Walk. The house and garden are perfect place to spend an autumnal afternoon.

It also prides itself on its afternoon tea, which was a mini feast in itself. Along with a selection of sandwiches were two rather charmingly dainty warm treats: a chicken and mushroom pie and a cheese and mushroom tart. The customary scone with jam and cream was accompanied by a small chocolate pudding and berry dessert; although classed as tea, it all made for a hearty lunch. Credit too for their fine gluten-free efforts.

It all kept us going until dinner, which was a most charming experience in a place some may overlook. We ate in the Brew Bar Lounge of the Marriott Hotel. Any preconceptions of identikit, mass-produced fare should be cast out of one's mind: this was food cooked with great care, diligence and skill, created and served by a team exuding friendliness and hospitality. My wife's pan-fried cod was a fine balance of delicateness and bite; my penne arrabiata was rich in texture and pleasingly sharp in flavour. It is an informal and relaxed place to eat, made all the more pleasant by the staff; and, after enjoying a plate of good local cheese and crackers, we were really quite sad to have to leave.

Having slept deeply on our plush bed, our appetites had recovered sufficiently to enjoy a fine breakfast. I had the house speciality: poached eggs on sourdough with streaky bacon and a dash of hollandaise. It was a joyous wake-up for my palate: rich, smoky, mellow, tangy, crunchy. Along with the loose-leaf tea, granola and yoghurt, it made for as good a start to the day as one could dream of.

There was time after breakfast for some more exploration of Edgbaston Village - with its bars, spas and unique boutiques - before lunch at the Michelin-starred Simpsons. Set in one of Edgbaston's Regency properties, it is fresh and bright and far from the intimidating, haughty place a restaurant of its calibre might be. Proceedings began with an Ugo, a deceptively simple cocktail comprising sparkling wine, fresh mint and elderflower; it was a sweet yet snappy affair, bracing and perfectly balanced. My wife's Seedlip Grove cocktail proved that alcohol is not a prerequisite for a great drink, evoking a particularly invigorating gin and tonic. Then it was time to eat; and to eat at Simpsons is a very special thing indeed.

Following an amuse bouche - a wondrously intense take on bacon and eggs, along with parsley oil and carrot sauce - my starter of onion broth with smoked cheese dumpling, black garlic, hen of the woods mushroom and chickweed was every bit as light as it was punchy and earthy, the dumpling smooth and sumptuous, the mushroom pleasingly rough and crinkly. The dish had a heft that belied its size. My wife's Cornish mackerel with baby beetroots, iced wasabi, red vein sorrel and oxalis was a plate of food pieced together with an exquisite touch, the mackerel gently warm, the beetroots in particular something of a revelation.

Chicken does not get much better than my main: Cumbrian chicken with truffle gnocchi, leek, yeast and nasturtiums. The meat had a fine coating of crumb to contrast with its delicate texture and beautifully rounded flavour, while the the leek hit the sweet-spot of mellow and sharp and the gnocchi added a welcome chewiness. My wife had Newlyn plaice with courgettes, white beans, seaweed butter and sea herbs; it tasted vastly more exciting than that sounds, packed with bright and potent flavours, the plaice being cooked with customary excellence, its accompaniments adding breadth and depth in perfect proportion.

I have eaten few things, however, that have left me quite so enraptured as my dessert: an apple and blackberry souffle with oatmilk ice cream. It was somehow not quite of this world; I have never eaten a cloud from heaven but I imagine it might be quite similar. There was something of the sublime in its softness and gentle warmth, given shape in the mouth by the sharpness and bite of the fruit. One hears food described as 'divine' but that seems quite insufficient for this. The menu told of a 20-minute wait for this particular wonder of the universe but that felt like less of a warning and more of a promise. I'd happily wait 20 years for it. I'm not sure anything will ever be quite the same for me, food-wise. I was so engrossed in my own ecstasy that my wife's evident delight at her pudding - variations of blueberry, served with cake - passed me by somewhat at the time.

And so our weekend in Edgbaston came to an end on a note so high it almost exceeded the range of human hearing. There is plenty more to do than we managed, too, not least a visit to Cannon Hill Park and the Midlands Arts Centre. And it's so easy to get to: London Northwestern Railway runs trains direct from the likes of Leighton Buzzard, Milton Keynes, Northampton and Rugby, with Edgbaston a few minutes' taxi ride from the centre of the city. Think you know Birmingham? Think again. It turns out it can be a city of wonders.

* Peter Ormerod was a guest of the West Midlands Growth Company Limited

Sam Vesty has paid tribute to Piers Francis ahead of the Saints centre's World Cup debut.

Francis will start at inside centre for England against USA on Thursday (kick-off 11.45am UK time).

The Saints star earned a place in Eddie Jones' squad following a fine campaign at Franklin's Gardens.

Francis, who moved to Northampton from Super Rugby side the Blues in 2017, established himself as the first-choice 12 at Saints last season, scoring seven tries in 23 appearances.

He has since cemented his place in the England squad and will win his ninth cap in the clash with the USA.

And Vesty said: "PF is a fantastic player because every time he's on the pitch you know he's going to give you absolutely everything he's got.

"He doesn't necessarily do the stand-out things in a game but he does everything really well.

"That level and consistency of performance is something that is real class. It's a real art form to get that.

"He's a real bit of glue to our attacking game and he's a real bit of glue to our defensive game."

Former footballer Darren Bent has backed Leeds United to sign Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah on a permanent deal next summer, if he can help them to promotion to the Premier League this season. (Football Insider)

Leeds United ace Kalvin Phillips has admitted that Marcelo Bielsa's use of an interpreter can be a challenge on the training field, but revealed that the Argentine is still more than capable of getting his point across to his players. (TalkSPORT)

Turkish side Trabzonspor are said to have identified Hull City winger Kamil Grosicki as a key target, as they look to cover injury issues with the Poland international. (Sport Witness)

Sheffield Wednesday are understood to have been contacted by the EFL to explain their £38m profit 'sale' of Hillsborough was listed in their 2018 accounts, as the Land Registry documents date the acquisition close to a year later. (The Times)

Huddersfield Town manager Danny Cowley is said to have earmarked Bristol Rovers striker Jonson Clarke-Harris as potential January signing. He's scored 7 goals in 11 games so far this season. (Football League World)

Peterborough United chairman Darragh MacAnthony has scoffed at claims that Middlesbrough and Derby are chasing the club's top talents Ivan Toney and Marcus Maddison, urging fans to 'ignore' the rumours. (Hartlepool Mail)

Watford defender Ben Wilmot has admitted he's been frustrated with the lack of first-team opportunities he's been given on loan at Swansea City this season, but has backed himself to seize his opportunity when it arises. (Wales Online)

Middlesbrough are said to be 'fearful' of losing young defender Dael Fry in January, with Manchester City believed to have the £20m-rated centre-back on their radar. (Team Talk)

Derby County youngster Alex Babos has completed short-term loan deal to FC United of Manchester, as he looks to get more first team experience under his belt at a lower level. (Derby Telegraph)

Gavin Burnett, aged 37, Darren Burnett, aged 44, John Haley, aged 39, and Mark Robins, aged 31, were jailed at Northampton Crown Court yesterday, Tuesday, September 24, over conspiracy to steal charges relating to burglaries in Northampton and Daventry, as well as in Chesham, Buckinghamshire, earlier this year.

The Chesham offence took place overnight between January 27 and 28 at a motorcycle shop.

The two Northamptonshire break-ins happened overnight between February 25 and 26, the first at an auto shop in Browns Road, Daventry, the second involving a shed in Chaucer Way, Daventry.

Both these premises were owned by the same person, with the defendants believed to have targeted them in the hope of stealing a quad bike which had been advertised on Facebook Marketplace.

Damage to the auto business was valued at around £2,000 after the group cut through a fence, smashed in windows, searched an office and cut their way into a metal container.

A Mercedes Sprinter van used on the night of the Northamptonshire crimes was found to be on false number plates, having previously been stolen from Kent in 2017 by persons unknown.

Gavin Burnett and Haley were charged with taking the van without consent on February 26, with Burnett, who drove the van on that date, also charged with driving while disqualified.

Investigator Victoria Stather, of the East Midland Special Operations Unit (EMSOU), said: “I’m pleased with the sentences, which reflect the distress and inconvenience caused to the victims of these offences.

“Their actions show these criminals to be grasping and opportunistic, taking a legitimate advert for a quad bike as an invitation to try and steal it. Seeing them jailed for this greedy and entitled attitude should serve as a warning to those who seek to take what isn’t theirs – there are real consequences and we will pursue you to see justice done.”

Gavin Burnett, of Berrywood Close, Northampton, was jailed for three years and 10 months for conspiracy to commit burglary, taking a vehicle without consent, and driving without insurance. He was further disqualified from driving for 35 months.

Darren Burnett, of Fort Place, Northampton, was jailed for two years for conspiracy to commit burglary.

Haley, of Farmhill Road, Northampton, was jailed for two years and four months for conspiracy to commit burglary and taking a vehicle without consent. He was also recalled to prison over burglary and theft charges from 2016.

Robins, of Brickwell Court, Northampton, was jailed for two years and four months for conspiracy to commit burglary.

There is further turmoil within Northamptonshire children’s services as the government-appointed children’s commissioner has resigned.

The Department for Education has confirmed today (Sept 25) that Malcolm Newsam has said he will be leaving the role and will be replaced by another commissioner.

The resignation news comes after the experienced commissioner was criticised last week at full council for being ‘absent’ and not attending many public meetings.
A motion had been put forward by Labour shadow portfolio holder for children’s services Cllr Jane Birch requiring the children’s commissioner to give answers about his plans for more early intervention and transition services.

Mr Newsam was appointed by the government last November after a terrible Ofsted inspection. His brief was to stabilise and improve the service.

A Department for Education spokesperson said: “Nothing is more important than keeping children safe. Last year we took swift action to put in place a commissioner and a package of support to address serious failings in Northamptonshire’s children’s social services.

“We are making good progress with the creation of a new children’s services trust and are grateful to Malcolm Newsam for his role in transforming these services. We will be appointing a new commissioner, before Malcolm leaves, to finish this crucial work.”

It is understood Mr Newsam has given verbal indication of his desire to leave the role but the department has not as yet received it in writing. The reasons for his leaving are unknown.

After joining the department Mr Newsam undertook a review of all departments and gave feedback which was made public in May. The report said there was a culture of complacency and a lack of accountability for poor performance. It said there was some way to go before the very basics of professional social work standards are in place in the county.

He recommended that children’s services be handed over to an independent children’s trust.

Labour’s Danielle Stone is not in favour of the children’s trust and is critical of Mr Newsam.

She said: “He didn’t do much groundwork. He has given us an off the peg solution, whereas we needed more work. After the children’s trust was suggested we asked for evidence as we feel really strongly that evidence is needed for these kind of decisions.”

Before Mr Newsam joined Northamptonshire County Council he had a strong track record and was part of the team that improved Rotherham children’s services in the wake of the child sexual exploitation scandal. He was awarded a CBE in 2017 for services to children’s social care.

This is the latest crisis for Northamptonshire’s children’s services. The department hit national headlines in the summer when two serious case reviews into the deaths of two young children who were killed by their violent father figures were published. The reports said the service missed chances to intervene. There are a further two serious case reviews to be made public.

This year the financially strapped county council, which runs the department, had to make £10m of savings in the department. This is looking unlikely with predictions that the department will spend above its budget. The department is heavily reliant on agency staff and is facing high costs of out-of-county private residential care for some looked-after children.

Northamptonshire County Council cabinet member for children’s services Cllr Fiona Baker said: “We would like to thank Malcolm for all his work since his arrival as commissioner for our children’s services.

“Malcolm has put in place a good transformation plan to improve our services to children that has been approved by Ofsted and we will be working hard to make sure these improvements continue to happen.

“We look forward to hearing from the government of the future arrangements as we move our services towards trust status and focus on improving standards. We have every confidence in our plans and work to see a step change in our performance.

“We have recently appointed new employees to the senior leadership of the department to move away from contract staff and have every confidence this will lead to increased stability within the services. This has increased capacity to deliver our improvement plan and prepare for the new trust.

“We are already planning with partners a recruitment process for permanent positions in the new trust.”

Ben Sanderson admits Northants' promotion decider at Gloucestershire has so far been an 'anti-climax'.

By the close of day three, just 73 overs had been bowled as the rain continues to ruin the Specsavers County Championship Division Two clash at Bristol.

Gloucestershire are currently 220 for seven, having battled back from 80 for six during day three.

Graeme van Buuren was the man dismissed, with Gareth Berg getting the wicket.

But Ben Charlesworth will head into day four unbeaten on 77.

And Sanderson said: "We came into this game all excited, but it's turned out to be a bit of an anti-climax with the weather.

"When we finally got back out there, it was tough going, especially for the seamers.

"The outfield is a little bit soft still and there is very little life in the pitch.

"We'd have liked to have taken more than the one wicket, but the conditions were difficult for bowling.

"You have to give credit to Ben Charlesworth. He looks a really good player and, apart from me finding his edge on a couple of occasions, he didn't really look in trouble.

"We're still in a good position when it comes to promotion and we just have to rock up tomorrow and take these last three wickets.

"Then we can focus on batting the rest of the day and getting the job done."

Northants need a total of just four points from the game to make sure of promotion, and they already have two.

But they look guaranteed to go up as Glamorgan's game with Durham has also been affected by the weather.

That is also a help for Gloucestershire, who look set to celebrate promotion with Northants on Thursday.

Gloucestershire all-rounder van Buuren said: "We'd have taken this position had it been offered at the start of the day.

"Our main objective was to get past 200 and bank a batting bonus point.

"But 80 for six was a tricky situation and we just set out our stall to bat for a long time.

"They still caused us problems when they bowled straight, but it became easier the longer we stayed out there.

"In the end, the runs seemed to come quite quickly and we enjoyed ourselves. It was fun.

"Of course, I'm disappointed not to go on and make a hundred, but it's about the team and we're now in a good position.

"Ben Charlesworth is already a very good player despite being just 18. He stands tall and his cover drives really flow. He also knows when to leave the ball alone and his showed sound temperament today.

"We're a lot closer to being promoted now, but there is still work to be done and we need to stay humble.

"We have to come back in the morning and play like we would normally."