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this issue 109 Ashby Life Editor Liz Roberts Telephone 01530 417739 Email enquiries Advertising/Accounts info@ashbylife.co.uk Website/What’s On admin@ashbylife.co.uk
Wartime Memories… Some books really manage to bring history to life and this month we were lucky enough to enjoy such a publication. ‘Doing Their Bit’, by local author Wendy Freer is all about the Ashby Girls Wartime Harvest Camps and it is absolutely fascinating. You can read more about it, and find out how to be in with a chance of winning a copy, on page 26. Is there anyone amongst our readers who remembers these camps, or perhaps had parents who spoke about them? We’d love to hear from you.
Liz Roberts
Web www.ashbylife.co.uk
Contents
Facebook www.facebook.com/ ashbylife
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Book Reviews
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Ashby Library News
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Community Board
Twitter @AshbyLife
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Ashby Health Centre
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Puzzle Page
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It’s Local
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In Your Home
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On the Beat
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Seasonal Recipes
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Spotlight On...
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Chess Puzzle
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What’s On for Families
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What’s On
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Fun Quiz
Ashby Life is an independent publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior permission of the editor. The use of this magazine for canvassing or direct marketing is strictly prohibited.
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A Walk in the Forest
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Christadelphian Church
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Storytime
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Ashby Museum News
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Just 4 Fun
Information is included on the What’s On and Community Board pages subject to space being available. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, Ashby Life cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions or endorse companies, products or services appearing in this magazine.
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Venture Theatre News
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Young Ashby
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Fitness Tips
Address Ashby Life Ltd Castle House South Street Ashby de la Zouch LE65 1BR Front Cover Image by Julie Barnett
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100 In Your Garden 108 Puzzle Solutions 110 Business Directory
If you would like to advertise in Ashby Life It’s a fantastic way to target potential customers and great value for money
See our website or call Liz on 01530 417739 for details Copy deadline for both July and August editions is Friday 12th June Please note advertising space is limited, pre-booking is recommended 4
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book reviews
The Big Top Roll up, roll up! June’s a time for carnivals, fetes and the circus. Whether these travelling entertainers bring joy or terror to the towns they visit, it’s all ‘fair’ game as far as we’re concerned, and it’s made for some great novels.
Water for Elephants...
Sara Gruen
Newly-orphaned scholar Jacob Jankowski decides to kiss his old life goodbye and skip town, hopping on a passing freight train. It turns out to be the travelling Benzini Brothers and their Flying Squadron, billed as ‘the most spectacular show on earth’. Bedazzled by the glitz and glamour of the big top and the circus performers, Jacob falls head over heels in love with someone he definitely shouldn’t and he soon finds out that carrying on the affair could be the most risky of death-defying acts.
Full Tilt...
Neal Shusteman
If you thought carnivals were all merry-gorounds and candy floss, think again. Sixteen year old Blake’s got himself in a right pickle: he’s chased his thrill-seeking brother Quinn into a carnival that’s free to get into, but could cost you your life to get out of. Blake finds he’s locked in a terrifying game where he must survive seven deadly sins before dawn. Blake must face his own inner demons and deep-seated fears to save his and his brother’s souls. It’s a terrible notion but a tantalising read.
A Son of the Circus...
John Irving
Not what you’d call ‘classic Irving’ but brilliant none the less, this tale of serial killings, twins separated at birth, class differences and even a dwarf chauffeur will have you wondering who on earth ‘dunnit’ in the bustling Indian city of Mumbai. It has a pretty intricate plot-line and a fantastic cast of colourful characters designed to cause confusion and intrigue in the mind of the reader. The Great Blue Nile circus features heavily but the story twists and turns like some great, rolling river and you’ll get totally washed away by it.
The Carnivorous Carnival...
Lemony Snicket
One for the Young Adult age-group now and if you haven’t read any of Lemony Snicket’s offerings then you really must. The Carnivorous Circus is the ninth novella in the series and follows the continuing exploits of the orphaned Baudelaire children who are trying to escape from the clutches of the evil Count Olaf. In this instalment, the intrepid and inventive children must disguise themselves as circus freaks to hide in amongst the acts of the Caligari Carnival. Prepare for much craziness and mayhem…and baby Sunny in a beard.
Something Wicked This Way Comes...
Ray Bradbury
Thirteen year olds James Nightshade and William Halloway find they have the unenviable task of saving the souls of everyone in their Midwestern town after a ‘dark carnival’ arrives. Can the best friends overcome the mysterious and evil ‘Mr Dark’ who is casting a spell over the local community, tempting them with their deepest, darkest secret desires? It’s a gripping novel that combines fantasy and horror. Should we fear what lurks in the shadows, or embrace it?
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ashby library news
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ou can always expect a warm welcome at Ashby Library. Join for free to use the computers and borrow books, DVDs and talking books. We also do 1-2-1 iPad and computer taster sessions. Come and chat to us we will be happy to help or book your slot on 0116 305 5917.
JUST FOR JUNE • National Smile Month on Friday 5th June celebrate National Smile Month for dental health. There will be a display in the library with advice and free oral hygiene gifts. FOR FAMILIES • ‘Wriggly Readers’ and ‘Story and Rhymetime’ for children aged 0 to 5 years and their parents and carers. Join us for stories and songs every Friday morning 10.30am to 11am. • After Wriggly Readers, fortnightly 11am to noon, come along to ‘Bumps & Babies’, a meeting place for new and expectant mums: free advice and information sessions run by the National Childbirth Trust.
HOBBIES • ‘The friendly ‘Knit and Stitch’ group meets every Monday 2pm to 4pm. Bring your project and come for a chat. • Italian Language course begins every Wednesday evening 7pm to 9pm, book through Leicestershire Adult Learning Service on 0800 988 0308.
Charles Darwin was one of the first to examine the science behind our smiles.
• ‘Tiny Talk’ baby signing classes take place every Thursday 9.30am to 10.30am and another session 11am to noon. • Enjoy Baby Massage every Friday 12.30pm to 1.30pm and 1.45pm to 2.45pm. Booking essential. Contact Keeley Hall on 07958 147 076 or email: blossomandbloombabies@outlook.com.
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MUSIC • The unusual and popular Ukulele playing group meets every Wednesday 9.30am to 11.30am. £5 per session. Call Joanna Stevenson on 07415 798 134. HEALTH & FITNESS • Come and practice Hatha Yoga every Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm. Call British Wheel of Yoga qualified instructor Lorna Kirk for details on 01530 416 135.
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community board Ashby Open Gardens Supporting Cancer Research Visit at least 15 beautiful, yet different, gardens in Ashby and see a vast array of stunning and unusual plants on the 4th and 5th July from 11am to 6pm. Refreshments and plants will be for sale at some gardens. Passports, which cost £3, are available in advance from the Tourist Information Centre or No 76 Restaurant & Tea Room in Market Street, Ashby and from participating gardens on the day. Proceeds to Midlands Air Ambulance and Hospice Hope. For more information contact Jan 01530 413 225 or see www.ashbyopengardens.co.uk.
Coleorton and New Lount Volunteer Group Dates for June are: Coleorton Wood 23rd and 27th and New Lount 9th and 13th. Work sessions start at 10am and usually last 4 hours. Volunteers are welcome to go along for all or part of the sessions. For more information call 01530 223 456 or coleorton11@gmail.com.
MusicIsLife.fm MusicIsLife.fm is a newly founded non-profit community online radio station based in Ashby. They are looking for bright, energetic and colourful DJ's, and anyone with IT and music related knowledge, to join them on a voluntary basis. For information please email zoe@ lyfordoffice.com or call 01530 215 015.
The Ashby Support Café A friendly drop-in support group for anyone affected by a life limiting illness in North West Leicestershire. Run by local charity Hospice Hope the group meets every Friday from 1.30pm to 4pm at Legion House, South Street, Ashby. Open to patients and carers to go along to relax, meet new people and get support. For more information call 07935 800 685 or email support@ hospicehope.org.uk.
Bargain Book Sale at Coalville Library There will be a sale of second hand books and DVDs for bargain prices at Coalville Library from 6th June to 4th July. A wide range of titles will be available. For more details please visit www.leics.gov.uk/libraries.
Buggycise A six week Buggycise course will be starting on 3rd June at Moira Furnace. Sessions run from 10am to 11am and cost is £6 per session. For bookings contact Zara on 01530 454 606.
Free Wellbeing Walks The Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation has launched an exciting new range of guided walks to promote healthy living and provide educational opportunities in its
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Charnwood Forest location. For more information please contact the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation on 01530 244 914, email hello@shuttlewood-clarke.org or see www.facebook.com/ShuttlewoodClarke.
Tara Kadampa Meditation Centre Relaxing meditation and practical advice at Legion House, South Street, Ashby, LE65 1BQ. Classes from 7.30pm to 9.30pm, June dates are Thursdays 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th. There is no need to book, just turn up. Seating is on chairs. Classes cost £6, for details or further information contact 01283 732 338, email meditate@tarakmc.org or see www.tarakmc.org.
Broom Leys Choral Society This friendly, community, non-audition choir welcomes new members. If you would like to give them a try, go along to some Tuesday evening rehearsals in Whitwick. There is no obligation to join. A lift to rehearsals can be arranged from Ashby. Call Jill Hetherington on 01530 412 374, for more information.
Poppy Appeal Sponsored Swim On Sunday 4th October there will be a sponsored swim in aid of The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal at Hood Park Leisure Centre. If you are interested in taking part please call Paul on 01530 417 747 for further details.
Ashby Choral Workshop The Ashby Choral Workshop is looking for singers to perform Mozart's Mass in C minor at St. Helen's Church on October 17th. Rehearsals will take place the weekend before. The concert is in aid of the St Helen's Heritage Lottery project and tickets cost £7.50 for adults and £5 for concessions, accompanied under 16's are free. Tickets will be available on the door. To find out more about taking part please email Jen Gilchrist at jengilchrist@btinternet.com or call Howard Marriott on 01530 414 553.
Ladies 2000 The Ladies 2000 are a small group of ladies who meet in Ashby on the 2nd Wednesday every month from 7.30pm to 10pm. They have speakers, go out for meals and enjoy other activities. For more information contact them on 01530 411 349.
Ashby de la Zouch Town Council Calendar of Meetings The Planning and Transportation Committee meet from 1st June 6.30pm to 7.30pm. The Licensing Committee also meet on 1st June, from 7.30pm to 8pm. Members of the public are welcome to attend and there is a slot for public questions. Meetings take place at Legion House, South Street, Ashby.
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ashby health centre
MONTHLY UPDATE Named Doctor for every Patient At Ashby Health Centre every patient has a named doctor, a system we have run for many years. We realise that not all patients know who their named doctor is so if you would like this information, please don’t hesitate to ask next time you are in contact with us. You will find that our staff will mention this to you when you come into the health centre over the coming months, something we have been asked to do by the Government. Having a named GP doesn't mean you have to see him or her, you are free to ask to see any GP who has appointments available in the same way that you always have.
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New Health Centre Many of you will have seen the new health centre building going up on Burton Road. If you have you’ll have seen how big it is compared to our current building. This, understandably, is leading many patients to think we will have more doctors once we move in. Unfortunately this will not be the case, in the short term anyway. The practice is funded by the Department of Health and the total practice income has not kept up with outgoing costs. Therefore until this situation changes (significantly) we will not be able to increase NHS appointments.
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puzzle page Well ventilated (4) Keeps you dry (8) Hauled (7) Brawl (5) Mixtures (12) Paper handkerchief (6) Small stoat (6) Books of words (12) Not outer (5) Bishopric (7) Bulge (8) Beers (4)
DOWN
1 2 4 5 6 7 8 12 14
Fearlessness (8) Kingdom (5) 12:00pm (6) Used for cold storage (12) Folk tales (7) Opposed to (4) Agrarian (12) Shines (8) Chemistry, biology, physics for example (7) Barrier (6) Perfect (5) Assists (4)
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QUICK CROSSWORD
SUDOKU 22
Solutions on page 108
ACROSS
1 3 9 10 11 13 15 17 20 21 22 23
Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3 x 3 box contains the digits 1 through 9, with no repetition. That’s all there is to it. You solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic - there’s no maths involved and no adding up. It’s fun, it’s challenging, it’s additive! Solutions to all puzzles can be found on page 108.
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it’s local Do you remember the
Wartime Harvest Camps?
‘DOING THEIR BIT’ is a fascinating book about the girl’s wartime harvest camps that took place in Ashby from 1942 to 1944. It is written by local historian, Wendy Freer, who, during her work with Ashby Museum, came across a log book that contained records of those attending the camps, the work undertaken, social activities and more. Although I knew about the vital part that Land Girls had played in the war effort I had never heard of wartime harvest camps until receiving the book and it is a brilliant read. Wendy gives background information to the harvest camps that were set up for both boys and girls throughout the country during the Second World War - opening the reader’s eyes to how vital the part played by these children was and just how the camps worked. The manuscripts from the log book of the Ashby camps are reproduced in the book along with some of the lovely pencil drawings, made by one of the teachers keeping the 1944 records. Though brief the records paint a detailed picture of how hard the youngsters worked as well as including glimpses of those they worked beside, including Italian prisoners
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of war and those from the boy’s camps. It wasn’t all work though and there are great accounts of social activities including games of tennis and cricket, outings to the castle and cinema and even parties with dancing and ‘home made’ entertainment. With information about where the girls came from, where they stayed and the farms they visited it is easy to visualise the places mentioned and a few familiar locations, such as Western Park Farm, come up regularly. The records of illness, accidents, methods of transport and a few instances of misbehaviour make the reader smile too! ‘Doing Their Bit’ is available from Wendy Freer, Pudding Bag Cottage, 68 Wood Street, Ashby de la Zouch, LE65 1EG. Telephone 01530 411 818 or email freerwendy@gmail.com. Cost is £9.99 (plus £2 p&p). We have a copy to give as a prize to one reader! Just write to us and tell us why you’d like the book, either on a postcard to Ashby Life (Book Competition), Castle House, South Street, Ashby de la Zouch, LE65 2BR or by email to competition@ashbylife.co.uk with the subject line ‘Book Competition’ and we will choose one lucky winner. Closing date is Friday 19th June.
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in your home
Admit defeat. Call a professional. NOT so many years ago, women gave up work as soon as they were married. Even before they had children, their duty was to run the house, and it was a full time job. With the advent of labour saving devices such as the vacuum cleaner, washing machine, and electric iron, much of the work could be carried out in a fraction of the time. In theory then, everything in our homes is spick and span, because we have so much more time. In practice it’s quite a different story.
We all have one. A list, in our heads or written down, of those little jobs you are going to get round to doing. The door that squeaks or doesn’t shut; the tap that drips; the picture which cost a small fortune yet still isn’t hung; the wobbly paving slab outside; the stain on the ceiling where the shower leaked…running a house is an endless series of maintenance work.
For women particularly, few have the luxury of not working at all. The little jobs pile up and you are going to get round to doing them… but you don’t. It’s time to call The Professionals.
The Professionals Get that list on paper, and call a man-who-can. Those nagging little tasks will be done in a jiffy, and peace will reign at home.
OVEN CLEANING
CARPET CLEANING
When you’ve cooked a delicious family roast dinner, or made a bubbling apple crumble, what you are supposed to do is thoroughly wipe down the oven afterwards. However, having eaten a big meal and naturally preferring to sit down and let your food digest, it’s a chore enough just to do the post-meal clear up. Cleaning the oven is often at best a superficial wipe over. Still the time comes when it needs to be done thoroughly so off you trot to buy sprays and gels, rubber gloves and then dedicate an afternoon to doing it. It’s really boring and generally the result is ‘okay’ but not great.
Although hard floors are very popular these days most homes still have carpets in some rooms. In the living room it helps to deaden sound; in the bedroom to keep it warm. Unlike hard floors they can’t just be washed though, so over time they start to become grubby. You can buy carpet cleaning machines. They’re nothing like as good as professional models. You can hire professional machines, but in either case you’d better have had some fitness training before you start using them. It’s really taxing work, and if you didn’t have a bad back before, you probably will afterwards.
The Professionals An oven cleaning company will do the job in a couple of hours and it’s no exaggeration to say your oven will look like it’s brand new. Even those tricky wire racks will be gleaming. You’ll want to leave the oven door open just so everyone can see how immaculate and shiny it is! SMALL CLOTHES REPAIRS Those trousers that were always too long, that favourite skirt that needs taking in (or letting out!), or that seam that has mysteriously ripped. Admit it, you have a little pile of clothes needing some TLC and you are going to mend them as soon as you can find your reading glasses/the right colour thread/a needle. The Professionals It’s such a relief to hand little jobs like that over to someone else (who can usually do a neater job anyway) and it’s really not expensive.
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THE ‘LIST’
The Professionals The industrial strength cleaning equipment they’ll use is a good enough reason to employ a carpet cleaning company in itself, as the end result is likely to be better than anything you can do yourself. If you recognise any of these areas as jobs you have been putting off have a flick through these pages – you’ll find plenty of local Professionals who will free your mind of the guilt about outstanding chores - even making the call will make you feel better!
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on the beat Hello everyone...
THIS month, with the holiday season having arrived, some advice for when you go away.
• Do not put your name and address on bag or suitcase tags, but put this information somewhere inside.
Tourists are sometimes targeted by thieves, so while you are away you still need to be cautious and take simple precautions, just as you would do at home:
• Keep a tight hold of your handbags, wallets and cameras while you are out and about sightseeing.
• Store passports and travel documents in a safe, these are installed in most hotels and villas. • Lock your bags and suitcases each time you leave your hotel room or villa.
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• Do not leave your property unattended or on display when you are going for a swim.
PC MARK ARJOO telephone: 101 voicemail ID: 1667 email: mark.arjoo@leicestershire.pnn.police.uk
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seasonal recipes Pre-cooking ribs in a pan of simmering water before Serv placing them on Rea es 4 dy in 60 min the barbecue s will ensure meltingly tender meat every time. Serve with a spicy chunky tomato salsa, if liked.
Barbecued Rack of Ribs
This velvety smooth, vanilla flavoured Italian set cream is simple to make but tastes divine. For a less rich dessert replace half the double cream with full-fat milk.
Vanilla & Chocci Panna Cotta YOU WILL NEED • 600ml double cream • 2 tsp vanilla extract
YOU WILL NEED
• 2 pared strips of lemon rind
• 2-3 racks of pork ribs (see Tip)
• 55g caster sugar
• 6 tbsp tomato ketchup
• 1 x 12g sachet powdered gelatine • 50g good quality dark chocolate, finely grated • Chocolate dipped strawberries, to serve (see TIP)
• 3 tbsp maple syrup
GET STARTED
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 Place the cream, vanilla extract, lemon rind and caster sugar in a pan and bring slowly to the boil. Remove from the heat.
• 2 tbsp sunflower oil • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard • 1-2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
GET STARTED 1 Place the ribs in a large pan and cover with cold water. Bring to the boil then skim off any scum from the surface of the water. Reduce the heat, cover and simmer gently for 45 minutes. 2 Meanwhile, place the rest of the ingredients in a pan and bring to the boil. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Leave to cool. 3 Remove the racks from the pan and drain on a board lined with kitchen paper. 4 Leave to cool for 5 minutes then brush each rack liberally with some of the sauce. 5 Cook the ribs on the edge of a hot barbecue for 10-15 minutes, turning and basting with any remaining sauce until the ribs are lightly charred in places. Alternatively, the ribs can be cooked under a medium pre-heated grill. TOP TIP Most large supermarkets sell racks of ribs or ask your local butcher to prepare them for you. Single ribs will work just as well (you’ll need about 2kg in weight), just reduce the simmering time to about 25 minutes.
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Makes 4 Ready 30 minin + coo s ling
2 Meanwhile place 4 tbsp of boiling water in a small heatproof cup or jug and sprinkle over the powdered gelatine. Leave for a few minutes until spongy then stir until dissolved. If the gelatine doesn’t completely dissolve, heat in the microwave on Full Power for a few seconds or sit the cup or jug in a pan of gently simmering water and stir until completely clear. Leave to cool for 10 minutes. 3 Stir a little of the hot cream into the gelatine mixture then stir back into the rest of the cream. Leave the mixture to cool for 30 minutes. Remove the strips of lemon rind and pour the mixture into four individual 150ml pudding basins. Place on a tray and chill in the fridge for 6 hours or overnight until set. 4 To serve, dip each pudding basin into a bowl of hot water for a few seconds then turn out onto a serving plate. Sprinkle the grated chocolate over each panna cotta and decorate with a sprig of mint or lemon balm. Serve with the chocolate dipped strawberries. TOP TIP To make the chocolate dipped strawberries, pick firm ripe strawberries and use a good quality dark chocolate (one with at least 50% cocoa solids). Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Remove the bowl from the heat and stir until smooth. Holding each strawberry by the green calyx, dip into the melted chocolate then shake to allow the excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. Place the dipped strawberries onto a baking sheet lined with baking paper and leave in a cool place until the chocolate has set. Serve on day of dipping.
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spotlight on... There are a number of local charities working in and around Ashby supporting those in need in a variety of ways. In our recent reader survey you told us that you would love to know more about them. EACH month we will turn the spotlight on one local charity and give you an insight into the work they do and the difference they make in our community.
alcohol misuse, children at risk on the streets and those exposed to bullying or violence. The Children’s Society also runs children’s centres and support more than 166,000 young carers across the UK. They fight for change through lobbying and campaigning at a local and national level. Situated at 65 Market Street their new shop will bring the total number of outlets for the charity up to 100 and Store Manager; Dee Arnold and her team will be celebrating with fancy dress, street entertainers and more…
Our first charity is The Children’s Society who are opening their new store in Ashby on 29th May. Did you know that The Children’s Society worked with more than 23,000 children at risk in the UK last year? They help England’s most vulnerable children and young people. Children living in families affected by drugs or
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The new store will run in addition to the existing shop located at 94 Market Street but with more of a focus on their homeware with room to display curtains, cushions and small furniture. You can support The Children’s Society by donating your unwanted goods to the local store, popping in to buy some bargains or making a donation online at www.childrenssociety.org.uk. If you are involved with a local charity please do keep us up to date with your latest news and events. Send us details of your local charity and any upcoming events to info@ashbylife.co.uk and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook or Twitter to keep up to date with news and updates on what is happening in and around Ashby.
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chess puzzle
CHESS PUZZLE IT’S WHITE TO MOVE AND WIN. Good news. After a dramatic season, the Ashby first team has kept its place in Division 1! The game that clinched it was Roy Evans versus Neil Toothill, as shown here. Can you see Roy’s move?
The Junior Chess Club meets at the Ivanhoe Social Club on Thursdays from 6.15pm. It’s for players aged 8 upwards. Please phone Neil Roberts on 01530 455957 for details.
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Our chess puzzle comes courtesy of local resident Richard Vann, the solution can be found on page 108 - should you need it!
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what’s on for families 6th June
Come and create your own masterpieces based on art from the Stone Age to the modern day. Draw and paint using the styles of past civilizations like the Egyptians and Romans.
History and Art Ashby Museum Kids’ Club Entry is free and open to all children of primary school age. 11am to 4pm.
The club runs the first Saturday of each month. (Children must be accompanied by an adult.) See www.ashbydelazouchmuseum.org.uk
Events in June 14th June
Marmalade for tea? Matinee showing of this delightful and enormously funny film. Prizes for Paddington look-alikes, Paddington accessories and anyone accompanied by a bear. Children must bring an adult. Adults can come by themselves. Ashby Film Nights (and afternoons) at The Lyric Rooms, Ashby. Doors and bar open at 2.30pm. Film starts at 3pm. Tickets available on the door or from Ashby Tourist Information Centre. For more details see ashbyfilmnights.wordpress.com.
'Paddington' (PG) The Lyric Rooms, Ashby Tickets £4 for adults, £3 for children (bears free)!
20th June
Heart of the Forest Festival Measham Free entry for all. 11.30am onwards.
The fun kicks off with the Street Parade complete with marching groups, vintage cars and floats making its way down High Street. Then head to the leisure grounds with over 100 stalls, side-shows, a fairground, food and refreshments and live music. This year’s theme is disney so dress to impress!
A fun 3k or 6k obstacle adventure run for adults and children of all ages and levels of ability! Running through beautiful countryside, participants will have to overcome fun and messy obstacles - from water slides to colour bombs, mud crawls to jungle nets - while being chased by a large friendly monster! There will also be post-race refreshments, entertainment and activity stalls. Book online via www.monsterrun.co.uk.
21st June
Father’s Day Challenge at Conkers Kids under 2 free, Kids over 2 £7.95, Adults £9.75, Family £32.95. Open 10am to 6pm.
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Breedon Monster Run Breedon on the Hill Tickets £8-£10 including event t-shirt. Registration at 10.30am.
Conkers Rangers are challenging dads to compete in their outdoor pursuits Father’s Day Challenge - the first ever Conkers Triathlon! Go Kart race around Sarah’s wood, canoe race up and down the canal basin and finally bike ride race to the finish line! You have the chance to win some excellent prizes and to get your winning name displayed at CONKERS until 2016. See www.visitconkers.com
A great mini adventure for all the family with shelter building, wilderness cookery and friction fire lighting as well as a range of games to suit all ages. Book online at www.woodlandsurvival crafts.com or call 01530 411861.
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20th June
28th June
Family Bushcraft Day Spring Wood, near Melbourne Adults £45.00, Children £25.00. Additional people half price. 9.30am to 4pm.
Send us details of your family events or clubs. Email the details and a contact number to vanessa@ashbylife.co.uk. The deadline for submissions for the July and August issues is Friday 12th June. Information is published subject to space being available. Ashby Life cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions or endorse companies, products or services appearing in the magazine.
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what’s on... June into July 2nd June Blackfordby WI – ‘Bess of Hardwick’. At Blackfordby Village Hall, 7pm, visitors welcome. For more details call Gill Massey 01238 212 380. Ashby Royal British Legion meeting at Ivanhoe Social Club, 1, Wilfred Place, Ashby, LE65 2GW at 7pm. Visitors welcome, for more information telephone 01530 417 747 or email ashby.royalbritishlegion@gmail.com. Croquet Open Evening – Try croquet free of charge, with an introduction to the basics from members of Ashby Croquet Club. Please wear trainers or flat-soled shoes. Accompanied children welcome. 6pm to 8pm at Moira Miners’ Welfare sports ground, Bath Lane, Moira DE12 6BP. See www.ashbycroquetclub.org.uk or call 01283 223 152. 4th June Ashby Castle WI – Debra Spencer talks about the history of Stilton cheese. Congregational Church, Kilwardby Street at 2pm. Small fee for visitors, refreshments available. For more details call Lesley on 01530 455 957. 5th June ‘Testament of Youth’ (12A) - Moving adaptation of true events. Century Theatre at Snibston, starts at 7.30pm. Admission £3.50, pay on the door. Please note rearranged date. Call 01530 278 444 for more information. 6th June Ashby Fake Festival - Tribute bands plus five local support bands. Marquee, licensed bar, food and fun. From 12.30pm at the Bath grounds, Ashby. Tickets from Ashby TIC or online at www.fakefestivals.co.uk. Garden Fete with craft stalls, cakes, games, bouncy castle, tombola. Manor House School, South Street, Ashby from 11am to 3pm, call 01530 412 932 or see www.manorhouse ashby.co.uk. 6th to 7th June The British Superkart Grand Prix – A fun event for the whole family at Donington Park. Ticket hotline 0844 873 7343. See www.doningtonpark.co.uk. See page 11. 7th June LRWT North West Group – Visit to Cloud Wood ‘botanically the most diverse reserve in the East Midlands’. Meet at 10.30am in the lay-by, GR 419215. For more details please call
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David Maltby on 01530 222 934 or Margaret Mabey on 01530 412 410. 9th June Ashby Civic Society – Meet at Gracedieu Priory at 2.30pm for a guided walk. Carvery available at a nearby pub. Tickets £3 on the day. For more information call Suzanne on 01530 415 654 or see ashbydela zouchcivicsociety.webs.com. Beginners Croquet Course at Ashby Croquet Club over three consecutive Tuesday evenings. 6pm to 8pm on the club's lawns at Moira Miners Welfare, Bath Lane, Moira DE12 6BP. Cost is £20 including club membership. See www.ashbycroquetclub.org.uk or call 01283 223 152. Ashby Writers’ Club – Manuscript Meeting: members’ own work. 7.30pm till 9.30pm at Congregational Church, Kilwardby St, Ashby, LE65 2FQ. Visitors welcome (nominal fee). 10th June Ashby Wine Circle – Social evening with ‘fish and chip supper’. Members meeting held at 7.30pm held at Brown Court, Atkinson Road, Westfields, Ashby, LE65 2LZ. 11th to 13th June ‘The Final Test’ – The Venture Theatre, Ashby at 7.30pm. Tickets £8 Wednesday and Thursday, £9 Friday and Saturday, available from Ashby TIC. 13th June Marathon Massage Day – Book in for an invigorating 20 minute massage at ProPhysio and make a donation to help raise funds for Hospice Hope. 9am to 5pm, refreshments available. To book call 01530 588 557 or email info@ prophysiomidlands.co.uk. Ashby 7’s Rugby Tournament including ‘Real Ale Festival’. Elite and O2 Touch competitions, bouncy castles, face painting, barbeque and bars. Gates open 10.30am, first match at 11am. Clubhouse and grounds, Nottingham Road, Ashby. LE65 1DS. 14th June 'Paddington' (PG) - Matinee showing of this delightful and enormously funny film. Prizes for Paddington look-alikes, Paddington accessories and anyone accompanied by a bear. Children must bring an adult. Adults can come by themselves. Ashby Film Nights (and afternoons) at The Lyric Rooms, Ashby. Doors and bar open at 2.30pm. Film starts at 3pm. Tickets £4 for adults,
£3 for children (bears free), available on the door or from Ashby Tourist Information Centre. See ashbyfilm nights.wordpress.com. 16th June National Trust Group - A coach trip to Dyrham Park to see parts of the house not usually available to the general public. For details call 01530 243 051. ‘So’ - Chorus Theatre in association with Castle Rock School presents this play retelling the themes and tales of Rudyard Kipling's Just So stories. Century Theatre at Snibston, starts 7.30pm. Tickets £5, available online at www.centurytheatre.co.uk or call 01530 278 444. 17th June Ashby Spa WI – Summer Stroll. Manor House School, South Street at 7.30pm. You do not have to be a WI member to attend and are welcome to go as a visitor for three sessions per year at a cost of £3 a session. 17th to 20th June ‘The Final Test’ – The Venture Theatre, Ashby at 7.30pm. Tickets £8 Wednesday and Thursday, £9 Friday and Saturday, available from Ashby TIC. 19th June LRWT North West Group visit Swannington Gorse Field reserve and dig. Meet 7pm at entrance to the reserve on St Georges Hill, Swannington. LE67 8JW. For more details call David Maltby on 01530 222 934 or Margaret Mabey on 01530 412 410. ‘Music at the Manor’ - Phil Rostance and the Marshall Band at Manor House School, South Street, Ashby. Arrive 6pm. Tickets £10 adult, £5 child or £25 family, from the school office or pay on the door. Take your own chairs, table, food and drinks, small gazebo allowed. Call 01530 412 932 or see www.manorhouseashby.co.uk. 19th to 21st June 110 Above - Previously Lainfest, 110 Above is a three day music festival situated in countryside at Gopsall Hall Farm in Twycross. See www. 110Above.com or email info@110 above.com. 20th June Ashby Farmers Market – 9am to 2pm at Manor House School, South Street. The finest foods from the region and specialist stalls. Free parking.
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what’s on... June into July continued 20th June ’The Breedon Monster’ - A fun 3k or 6k obstacle adventure run for adults and children of all ages and levels of ability. Running through beautiful countryside, participants will have to overcome fun and messy obstacles while being chased by a large friendly monster. Post-race refreshments, entertainment and activity stalls. Registration 10.30am. See www. monsterrun.co.uk or visit www. facebook.com/TheBreedonMonster. 23rd June Ashby Writers’ Club – With speaker John Martin, talking about his book ‘Crime Scene: Britain and Ireland’. 7.30pm till 9.30pm at Congregational Church, Kilwardby St, Ashby, LE65 2FQ. Visitors are welcome at a nominal fee. 24th June National Trust Group – Coffee morning at Calke Abbey with a member of the Calke Abbey team to tell you about local developments. For further details please ring 01530 243 051. Ashby Forum Active Retirement Crystal jewellery demonstration by ‘Daisy Doo’. All are welcome. Prior Park Community Centre, Ashby. For more information, email mcquone. helen06@gmail.com. 26th June ‘Kingsman: The Secret Service’ (15A). UK spy thriller/comedy. Century Theatre at Snibston, starts 7.30pm. Admission £3.50, pay on the door. For more information call 01530 278 444. 27th June Ballroom and Sequence Dancing at Blackfordby Village hall from 8pm to 11pm. Admission £3, raffle, bar, refreshments. For more details call 01283 213 481 or 01283 819 447. 28th June Market Bosworth Farmers Market – Every fourth Sunday of the month from 9am to 2.30pm at Market Square, Market Bosworth, CV13 0LJ. Bringing you the finest foods from the region and specialist stalls. 30th June ‘Fire Safety with a smile’ – A talk by Bill Wells. 2pm at the Congregational Church, Kilwardby Street. Ashby U3A, all welcome, tea and coffee, visitors £1. 1st July 'The Theory of Everything' (PG) Highly acclaimed Stephen Hawking
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biopic. Ashby Film Nights at The Lyric Rooms, Ashby. Doors and bar open at 7pm. Film starts at 7.30 pm. Tickets £5, on the door or from Ashby TIC. See ashbyfilmnights.wordpress.com. 2nd July Ashby Castle WI – With the ‘Cocktail Boys’ demonstrating and presenting cocktails. Congregational Church, Kilwardby Street at 2pm. Small fee for visitors, refreshments available. For more details call Lesley on 01530 455 957. National Trust Group – Coach trip to Gunby Hall for a guided tour of the property, and walk around the gardens. For further details please ring 01530 243 051. 3rd July LRWT North West Group – Ashby Canal Walk, meet at 7pm outside The Globe, Snarestone to view the Ashby Canal SSSI and associated new nature reserve. For more details please call David Maltby on 01530 222 934 or Margaret Mabey on 01530 412 410. Ashby Castle Lawn Tennis Club 24hour Tennis Marathon starting at 8pm (opposite Ashby Castle). Go along to watch, join in the tennis cardio session 8pm to 9pm or test your own speed of serve. Hot food and bar. All welcome, for more details contact Alex on 07931 412 238. ‘The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’ (PG) – All the gang are back in this much awaited sequel, joined by newcomer Richard Gere. Century Theatre at Snibston, starts 7.30pm. Admission £3.50 pay on the door. For more information call 01530 278 444. 4th July Charity & Open Day at Ashby Castle Lawn Tennis Club (opposite Ashby Castle). Summer Fete, 11am to 5pm with cakes, strawberries & cream, pimms, stalls and activities. Barbecue and bar, play tennis for free 2pm to 4pm. Entrance is free and all are welcome. For more details contact Alex on 07931 412 238. ‘Ladies Day’ at Leicester Racecourse. A full days racing plus ‘best dressed lady’ contest. For more information call 0116 271 6515 or visit www.leicesterracecourse.com. See page 81. ‘Let's Do It’ - Celebrate Independence Day with classics by Porter, Gershwin and friends. Broom Leys Choral Society Concert at Christ Church,
Coalville. LE67 3JA at 7.30pm. Tickets £8, children 16 and under free, available on the door or from Jill Hetherington 01530 412 374. Independence Day Concert with Ashby Concert Band. A celebration of American music, in support of Hospice Hope. A sequence of music spanning the time from the earliest settlers to the late 1900's. Holy Trinity Church, Ashby. Tickets Ashby TIC on 01530 411 767 or Hospice Hope on 0791 937 4992. Cost, £10 adult, £5 child (under 16), under 5’s free. 4th to 5th July Ashby Open Gardens - Visit at least 15 beautiful, yet different, gardens in Ashby with refreshments and plants for sale at some. From 11am to 6pm. Passports £3, available in advance from the Tourist Information Centre or No 76 Restaurant & Tea Rooms, Market Street and from participating gardens on the day. Proceeds to Midlands Air Ambulance and Hospice Hope. For more information contact Jan 01530 413 225 or visit www.ashbyopengardens.co.uk. Masters Festival at Donington Park, incorporating racing into the dusk. Children 13 and under go free if accompanied by a paying adult. Donington Park. Ticket hotline call 0844 873 7343 or see www.masters historicracing.com. See page 61.
Did you know it’s FREE to put community info on this page? Email the details and contact number to admin@ashbylife. co.uk. Deadline for submissions for the Community Board or What’s On pages for both the July & August 2015 issues is Friday 12th June. Information is published subject to space being available. Ashby Life cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions or endorse companies, products or services appearing in the magazine.
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fun quiz
Answers on page 108
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a walk in the forest
The National Forest Way Something a little different this month as we take a look at the National Forest Way, a new long distance footpath that opened in May last year. There are guides available to each of the sections of the National Forest Way online giving a total of 12 walks mostly in the range of 5 to 7 miles and many of these can also be combined with other paths to create circular walks. Those who are familiar with a map of the National Forest area will know that it covers quite a long thin strip running from just this side of Leicester over to Yoxall on its eastern border. The National Forest Way is over 75 miles in length and cleverly uses a network of footpaths to wind its way right around the forest, starting (or ending, depending which way you walk it!) from Beacon Hill in Woodhouse Eaves the path nears the southern borders of the forest as it travels through Thornton, again after leaving Moira and at it’s far end at Alrewas. It winds its way back and forth through the central strip of the national forest, passing directly through Ashby and calling in at Rosliston and Walton upon Trent and finally curves around the eastern edge of the forest before heading south again to reach the National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas. The route has been chosen to showcase the many different landscapes of the National Forest and those who walk it will enjoy views that include reminders of our industrial heritage, ancient forest, wildflower meadows, reservoirs, rivers and many areas that have been transformed by new plantations and landscaping. The route uses public rights of way and some permissive paths with the majority being ‘off road’ walking and it is suitable for both experienced walkers and those who are just looking for a relaxing amble. One great benefit of this long distance path is that the whole route is very well marked and, certainly the sections that I have so far encountered, have all had good access with gates, stiles and paths being well maintained. The markers are circular in shape with an arrow and logo clearly indicating the National Forest Way – those who are keen walkers will no doubt have noticed them in and around Ashby, Moira, Ticknall and Ibstock. The markers are colour coded so that those who are taking the path from east to west will be following the purple markers while those travelling from west to east are guided by orange markers. Clear directions for each of the 12 sections can be downloaded from the National Forest Way website and these are also colour coded in the same way. Of course, as each section is part of the longer path, they are all ‘one way’ walks rather than being circular. If you are enthusiastic you could walk there and then back, if you can team up with a friend you can leave a vehicle at each end of your walk (or get someone to drop you off/pick you up), but if neither of those appeal don’t worry as the guide for each section also includes details of public transport to get you from the end of your walk back to the start. There is also handy information on where to park, including any charges that may apply. You will also find points highlighted on your route map with information about the history, plant and animal life and other features of interest. There is a handy feature on the website which allows you to search for walks with particular features such as historic buildings, family fun, waterside or great views. Here in Ashby we are particularly lucky as our central position means that we are very close to several sections. Sections 4 and 5 start/end in Ashby, while section 7 passes through Smisby. You’ll find out more about the National Forest Way, including the downloadable guide to each section, online at www.nationforestway.co.uk – the weather is beautiful, summer is on its way, why not start exploring it now?
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www.ashbychurch.co.uk
Good sense
MANY OF US these days have a little voice that guides us as we drive; for some it’s perhaps a spouse or partner, but regularly it’s our Satnav device. Amazingly we follow the instructions often without question, trusting implicitly. Yet following blindly could result in problems – a dead end or trying to go the wrong way down a one way street! There are stories of people who have selected the wrong destination and ended up hundreds of miles from where they should be.
of direction?
Maybe you are someone who prefers using the trusty old map for directions instead? Maps are wonderful things. Fascinating windows on the past and the present, showing what is around us and how things have changed. But to be useful, maps need to be accurate. Maps missing crucial roads or key landmarks are worse than useless. An unreliable map might not just take us out of the way, but mean that we don’t find our destination at all.
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Editorial by Ashby Christadelphian Church, Union Passage, Ashby
www.ashbychurch.co.uk
Just as with driving or walking, in our lives we need to make sure that we are guided by the right information. Accurate information that is relevant and that leads us to finding the right destination. We don’t just need directions for walking or driving from A to B. We need directions for the whole of our life, a guide to help us make the right choices at every turn. God has prepared a guide for us, the Bible, showing us how we can live our lives for Him, showing us how we can follow God’s directions, and find our way to Him. Why not come along to the Ashby Christadelphian Church any Sunday at 10am to hear more about how the Bible can be the perfect guide to get the right direction for life. The signs are all there – we sometimes just have to find the right path. Useful passages to look up: Psalm 119 verse 59.
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storytime
Boat Number BARNEY secured the last of the pedalos, and gazed with satisfaction out over the boating lake. The ducks were returning to Smuggler’s Island and the water was as still as a tea tray. After four years as first mate, Barney had finally been trusted to take charge. This morning, Mr Vaughn, better known as Captain, handed over the cash tin. Muttering something about a trial run, possible partnership and avoid using boat number six, he’d staggered off for an all day meeting at The Dolphin. And what a busy day it had been. The late morning sun had scorched off the clouds and by midday a queue of holiday makers had stretched along the jetty. All he had to do now was lock the shed. He opened the door and noticed two flowery beach bags hanging on the peg. Barney’s heart sank. Customers must have given them to him to take care of, and he’d neglected to return them. Captain would grumble, but it might be overlooked considering the weight of the cash tin. He then remembered the customers. How could he forget them? With supreme lack of coordination, and fits of giggles, that pair of elderly ladies had climbed aboard their pedalo. He was amazed they didn’t get a dipping. Following that fiasco, they had pedalled around in circles singing ‘We are sailing’ before eventually disappearing around the side of Smuggler’s Island. He also remembered that he had put them in boat number six. A canary yellow two-seater pedalo, boat number six had been patched up more times than he’d had chip suppers. Captain had retired her at the end of last season. But Barney had wanted impressive takings and that meant putting every vessel to work. With a curious feeling of dread Barney studied the pedalos sitting calmly on the darkening water. As instructed he had lined them up numerically. There was boat number five, and
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next to it boat number seven. Boat number six was not in position. He quickly counted the boats, and counted them again. He counted them slowly just to be certain. Boat number six was missing. On his first day in charge not only had Barney lost a vessel, he had also lost its crew. He dreaded the thought of a humiliating all night lake dredging. It was deep in places, but just how deep Barney had hoped never to find out. He glanced at his watch. He was expected in the Dolphin in ten minutes, but there was still time. He un-tethered a little rowing boat. With determined strokes he rowed out onto the lake. The ducks quacked with annoyance. The water was worryingly still. Then he heard a sound like a rusty saw. Backwards and forwards it went, slowly, deliberately, like someone lazily sawing wood for the fire. It appeared to be coming from the bulrushes along the banks of Smugglers Island. He peered into the reeds and saw a flash of yellow. It had to be boat number six, but where was its crew? “Ahoy there!” Barney called nervously. The sawing ended abruptly. “Is anyone aboard?” “Hello?” a shaky voice replied, “Wake up Gert, we must have nodded off”. In the shadows the ladies rubbed their eyes and began to stand. “I don’t want to alarm you but you’re in a pedalo”, Barney called. “I’d advise you to sit tight”. It was with great relief that Barney towed boat number six home on her final ever voyage. All the while the ladies serenaded him with ‘We are sailing’ in booming carefree voices. Barney smiled, and joined in with the chorus.
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By Jackie Brewster
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ashby museum news
A
t present we have researchers working on interesting local documents - Alton Grange, Ashby Rotary Club, the British Legion, and the late Charles Harvey collection of railway memorabilia, local government and the origin of the Ashby-Pithiviers Twinning. Several researchers have come to us via appeals in this magazine for which we are grateful as the list of documents we have acquired keeps on growing! The new Dolly Shepherd radio play extracts will soon be available to listen to, and, very excitingly, she is likely to appear as a topic on a future Antiques Road Trip programme. Dolly was an intrepid Edwardian parachutist who descended on Ashby and she features as a permanent display in our main gallery The new temporary exhibition in the Loudoun gallery, on Ashby’s Lost Railways, is now running until the end of June and has already attracted a lot of attention. Do come along and have a look at the fascinating photographs on display and see the station clock. The Alton Grange Bell Pit project starts at the end of May. As part of the Festival of Archaeology there will be an archaeological display called 'History Though Artefacts' at Ashby Museum for the whole of July with a event called 'Hands On Archaeology' on Saturday, 18th July. More details to follow. The next Kids' club is on the Saturday 6th June and is called 'History with Art'. Come and create your own masterpieces based on art from the Stone Age to the modern day. Draw and paint using the styles of past civilizations like the Egyptians and Romans. Open to all children of primary school age. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The club runs from 11am till 4pm.
FRIENDS OF ASHBY MUSEUM The Friends of Ashby Museum would like to welcome you to our next afternoon talk on Wednesday June 3rd. The speaker will be John Worsfield from Hathern Micro Brewery. The talk will be at the museum, starting at 2pm. £3 to include tea/coffee and biscuits. Please book a place by calling the museum. We look forward to seeing you there.
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just 4 fun
Solutions on page 108
CODEWORD Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a number between 1 and 26. The codes for three letters are shown. As you find the letters enter them in the box below.
Solutions on page 108
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venture theatre news Our summer production will be The Final Test, by Chris Paling. It is a touching and poignant comedy about marriage, cricket and the danger of turning a blind eye to what’s happening around you.
The Final Test PETER likes nothing better than sitting in the garden listening to the cricket but his wife has other ideas. While Peter dozes in his deckchair, listening to the final test from The Oval, Ruth has ideas about making her life more exciting and she isn’t planning on including Peter. She takes a lover and plans to move to the coast. Peter remains blissfully ignorant, not only of the affair but also of the fact that the house has been sold from under him. The new owners move in to find Peter still ensconced in the garden with no plans to interrupt the cricket! In the Venture Theatre’s production of The Final Test, Peter is played by Jim Joyce. He told us: "I read The Final Test as a member of the Play-reading Committee and thought that the role of Peter would be a great part to play. A truly eccentric Englishman, quite happy to sit in his garden listening to the cricket completely oblivious to the world around him, until the world deals him a blow that is sufficient to interrupt Test Match Special. At this point he has to make a stand but not of course in any conventional way. I was delighted to be given the chance to play this interesting and unconventional character. " Author Chris Paling was born in Derby and is a highly acclaimed novelist. He has also written a series of plays for BBC Radio 4. The Final Test is his first stage play. It runs at The Venture Theatre from 11th to 13th June and 17th to 20th June.
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young ashby
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fitness tips Building muscle has so many great benefits that it should always be a main component of your workouts. It gives you shape, burns calories at rest and makes you feel great!
with Simon Pellecchia of Fitness Republic
www.fitnessrepublic.co.uk
How do I build Muscle? BUILDING muscle requires two things - a progressive weight training plan combined with the right nutrition. As far as exercise is concerned, let’s keep it simple. Below I have listed some of the most important points you should consider in your exercise plan. Choose the correct exercises – The best exercises for building muscle are called compound exercises. These are exercise that use more than one muscle when performed. For example, a squat, a deadlift, bench press and a pull up. You can lift more weight with these rather than say an isolation exercise such as a bicep curl. Choose the right amount of reps and sets – Muscles respond well to heavier weights and that goes for women too. Reps of between eight and twelve are considered optimal. Higher reps will work but at a much slower rate as the stimulus to the muscle can be less and you will develop more endurance. Three sets per exercise works well, with an ideal total of no more than twelve sets per body part.
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The secret part! – Log your figures. Muscles adapt to progressive overload, if you don’t continually overload them they won’t grow! So write down your weights and reps and try to beat them on your next session. For example, if you did three sets of eight on the bench press, aim for three sets of ten next time and so on. When you hit twelve good reps comfortably it will be time to raise your weight the next workout. Remember good form is essential on all reps with a speed of 2/2 (2 seconds to lower and 2 seconds to raise). If you would like a program developing please email me on simon@fitnessrepublic. co.uk and I will look forward to helping!
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in your garden RHS Show Garden Medalist, Francesca Sinclair, looks at how to make the most of your garden and garden jobs for this time of year. Francesca offers a full garden design service - find out more at www.francescasinclair.co.uk
Leicester surprise LEICESTER University Botanic Garden is a wonderful discovery; a quiet oasis and botanical feast. There is no pomp or false promises, but simply a hidden treasure to be discovered. Mostly out of sight, screened by well kept hedges and set in a lovely part of Leicester, it is open every day except between Christmas and New Year. Entry is usually free. Apart from being a 16 acre garden incorporating four lovely old Edwardian houses, it is a multipurpose space, being an important research facility for the Biology Department of the university. It hosts national collections of plants including Aubrietia and Fuchsia. The garden is a popular destination for school parties and its diversity and structure is used for part of the national curriculum. The list of other activities this garden offers includes plant sales, sculptural exhibitions, plays and musical performances. A notable date for the diary is Sunday June 28th for the impressive plant fair and family day. Specialist nurseries will have unusual plants for sale and there will be music, cakes, a variety of entertainment and, of course, the gardens to explore. There is so much diversity, from the giant cacti in the Desert House to woodland borders, a sunken water garden and rose covered pergola. My favourite area is the Edwardian gardens displaying the design thinking and style of that period with yew hedges, garden rooms and a detailed layout of paving lawns and landscapes. High quality craftsmanship is detailed in the brick,
stone and tilework of walls and buildings and intricate and bespoke handmade gates elegantly close one area from another. The Arts and Crafts movement was clearly in fashion at the time. Another impressive area is the large herb garden, featuring plants for medicinal and culinary use, and within this space just happens to be pavements based on the mathematical principal of Fibonacci – it is an award winning piece of landscaping! Information boards on the different areas and helpful plant labels enable accurate note taking for possible recreation in your own garden. As a research and education facility, the university encourages people to join the Botanic Garden as a ‘Friend’ for a very modest fee. Regular newsletters include a variety of interesting articles, such as why the leaves of deciduous trees change colour in autumn, to the invasion of Japanese Knotweed, and then to explaining the work of the Leicestershire Fungi Study Group. Specialist botanical and garden talks and lectures are scheduled for ‘Friends’. As a working and practical garden there is a recent partnership with the local council and master composters to develop a new working display area and encourage recycling and good gardening practice. Every season is interesting here from the spring planting in the woodland garden featuring Hellebores and Crocuses to the autumnal colours of the varied and majestic trees and collection of Acers. Guided tours are available, if booked in advance. I cannot overstate what a joy and surprise it was to visit this garden. To visit and see list of events and activities call 0116 271 2933 or see www.le.ac.uk/botanicgarden.
Francesca
Email info@francescasinclair.co.uk
JOBS FOR JUNE: 1 Mow once a week at least 2 Stake tall floppy plants 3 Put summer bedding plants in gaps in borders 4 Cut back early flowering perennials for a second flush later in the summer 5 Tie in sweet peas and water regularly 6 Pinch outside shoots of tomato plants, plant outside and feed 7 Water hanging baskets daily 8 Harvest lettuce, salad crops and early potatoes 9 Sow runner beans and French climbing beans 10 Shade greenhouse to prevent scorch 11 Hand weed borders and vegetable plots. Phew!
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WORD WHEEL TARGETS & ANSWER Excellent: 25+ words, Good: 20, Fair: 16. ANSWER: Objective.
CHESS PUZZLE FUN QUIZ
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1. A yo-yo 2. Jenga 3. The Furby 4. Red 5. Jigsaw puzzles (a jigsaw would be used to cut out the pieces) 6. Candy Crush Saga 7. Mr Potato Head 8. Five 9. Mattel (from parts of their names "mat" and "el") 10. The rope.
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business directory Accountants & Payroll Ashby Payroll Bureau 25 Baldwins 83 Haines Watts 9 & 111 JAWS Accountancy Services Ltd 39 Aerials & Satellite AB Aerials & Satellites 17 Architects DCI Architecture 78 Arts, Crafts, Gifts, Jewellery, Toys Mick Lakin Picture Framer 99 Souk de la Zouch 52 Builders Classic Building Services 59 Keith Armston Building Contractors 52 WM Construction 34 Business Services Lion Court Conference Centre 91 NWL Chamber of Commerce 77 Carpenters & Joiners Derek Verey 29 S S Joinery 63 Carpets & Interiors Agadon 3 Ashby Carpets 5 Ashby Stoves 108 Boundary Carpets and Floorings 13 Coalville Furniture Superstore 45 Fairweathers Carpets 75 Roger James Furnishers 88 The Bed Shop 32 The Flooring and Bed Company 47 Toons 86 Wendy's Courtyard Interiors 37 Cleaning, Ironing, Laundry Services Breedon Carpet Care 26 Deanclean 44 Forest Clean Ltd 59 Jayne’s Extreme Clean 74 Karen’s Ovengleam 107 NJR Pure Clean 21 Roughly Refined 34 Safeclean 13 Spotless Cleaning 87 The Bee’s Knees 62 Toni's Ironing Angels 62 Clothing The Shoe Box 44 Country Stores/ General Stores Hallmark Countrystore 20 Ivanhoe Countrystore 69 Domestic Appliances Contracool 82 Contract & Domestic Services 102 Ray Pittam Engineers 41 Driving Schools Bardon School of Motoring 53 RDT School of Motoring 107 Electricians A & J Bartlett Ltd 99 Bright Sparks 37 D & B Electrical 64 Estate Agents/Home Services Community Energy Surveys 24 John German 65 Events Ashby R F C Ltd 59
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