Ashby Life Magazine February 2016 by Ashby Life

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

this issue 117 Ashby Life

Editor Vanessa Preece Telephone 01530 417739

Email enquiries Advertising/Accounts info@ashbylife.co.uk Website/What’s On admin@ashbylife.co.uk

Hello om your new Editor!

Welcome to my very first issue as Editor. Whilst Liz puts her feet up and starts to enjoy her well-deserved retirement I am genuinely excited about continuing the work of Ashby Life in supporting our local businesses and tradespeople and bringing together the community with the latest local news and events. All of this and of course producing a magazine packed with articles you want to read and info you want to keep hold of. It’s going to be a challenging but rewarding year. The Ashby Life team are ready for it!

Vana Pree

Web www.ashbylife.co.uk

Facebook www.facebook.com/ ashbylife

Front Cover Image by Rebecca Soanes

A Walk in the Forest

Seasonal Recipes

On The Beat...

Ashbeian MTG News

Castle Medical Group

Community Board

Ashby Museum News

Fitness Tips

In Your Garden

Money Matters

Whats On

Body Matters

Storytime

Spotlight On...

Venture Theatre News

Christadelphian Church

Chess Puzzle

Friends of Bath Grounds

64/65

Thought for the Month

Puzzle Page

100

Puzzle Solutions

106

Business Directory

NEW

Book Reviews Fun Quiz

Just 4 Fun

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.

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.

This Month

Ashby Library News

Twitter @AshbyLife

Address Ashby Life Ltd Castle House South Street Ashby de la Zouch LE65 1BR

Contents

104

110

100

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 Chandra on 01530 417739 for details Copy deadline for the March edition is Thursday 11th February

Please note advertising space is limited, pre-booking is recommended 4

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

this month

e Language  Flowers IT’S nearly Valentine’s Day and millions will be rushing out to buy or send flowers. Traditionally this will be red roses of course. Others may choose their purchases on the basis of colour, smell or even price but there’s a whole language and meaning to flowers too which is called Floriography.

ROSES Red Roses as most will know symbolise Love and Desire but changing the colour of the flower leads to different connotations. For example, Yellow is for friendship, Pink for perfect happiness and Orange for fascination. There are different meanings for specific types of rose too, such as Tea Roses meaning ‘I’ll remember always’ and Dog Roses connecting to pain and pleasure. Formations also have an impact. Thinking back to the traditional dozen red roses, a bunch of a single bloom, means I love you or I still love you, whilst an assortment of colours represents the sentiment ‘you’re everything to me.’ A dozen red roses has become the norm, because of the significance of the number twelve within nature, philosophy and religion. The number 12 often represents a full cycle, so 12 months of the year, 12 signs of the zodiac, 12 hours on a clock for instance. From ancient times, cultures around the world have developed calendars based on cycles of twelve, and there are many mythological and religious connections to the number also. The use of 12 across the natural and spiritual world means that 12 or a dozen, has taken on a universal quality which enhances the significance of a dozen roses. Turning now to other flowers we frequently buy in the UK:

CARNATIONS Pink carnations mean ‘I’ll never forget you,’ whilst red symbolise admiration and yellow rejection and disappointment, so probably best to avoid those! LILIES Calla Lilies represent beauty and Tiger Lilies wealth so the latter is perhaps a good choice if you are looking to impress.

TuLIPS Apparently show love and passion too. Yellow ones, mean ‘there’s sunshine in your smile,’ whereas red tulips are a declaration of love and white ones say ‘I’m worthy of you.’ DAFFODILS Show regard.

FREESIAS Demonstrate trust.

Of course there are many more wonderful flowers to choose from, so if you really want to be sure of making the right impression, it’s worth asking your florist about their meaning.

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

ashby library news juST FOR FEBRuARY

National Libraries Day: Harry Potter Celebration! 6th Feb, 10am to 3pm. Drop in to celebrate libraries with us on National Libraries Day. There will be free tea and coffee and a library book fines amnesty. You are invited to take part in a free Harry Potter Quiz and try a free picture hunt. Book Sale 13th Feb to 12th Mar. Bag a bargain in our sale of ex-library stock.

The Force Awakens 16th Feb, 2.30pm to 4pm For children aged 5 to 11 years, booking essential, £2.50 per child. Begin your Jedi training with ‘Star Wars’ picture hunt, stories, activities and crafts !

YOu 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. FOR FAMILIES

• ‘Wriggly Readers’ and ‘Story and Rhyme time’ 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. • ‘TinyTalk’ baby signing classes take place every Thursday 9.15am to 11.45am with various sessions held. To book your place contact Marie Berry email: marieb @tinytalk.co.uk or call 07443 854158. Places are limited and allocated on a first come first served basis. HOBBIES

• The friendly ‘Knit and Stitch’ group meets every Monday 2pm to 4pm. Bring your project and come for a chat. MuSIC

• The unusual and popular ukulele playing group meets every Wednesday 9.30am to 11.30am, cost £5. Call Joanna Stevenson on 07415 798 134 for details. 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 416135.

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

a walk in the forest The National Forest Way – Section Seven

Hartshorne to Moira

This month we look at the seventh section of the National Forest Way, our newest long distance path which travels right across the National Forest area. Meandering through the pretty villages of Smisby and Blackfordby, this walk of just over 6 miles is perfect for blowing away the cobwebs. You can download full instructions for this section of the National Forest Way at 1 www.nationalforestway.co.uk, including postcodes for start and finish 2 and information on public transport links. Those who fancy a pub lunch en-route can choose between the Tap House, the George & Dragon or the Bluebell Inn – you will pass by them all. There is free car parking at both ends of the walk but do note car park closing time at Conkers.

Turn left out of the car park at Hartshorne Village hall (1) and walk up Manchester Lane for a short way to reach a track on your left beside Horn Hill Lodge. Follow this track as it bears round to the right. Where the track ends your path continues across farmland crossing two fields to arrive at the entrance to Several Woods(2). After passing a small pond on your right the NFW goes over a stile, up the side of the field ahead and then back over a stile in the right hand fence – however, when I went the landowner had put up a sign asking walkers to stay to the right of the fence. Whichever side of the fence you opt for you will soon see a wide grass path leading into the woods to your right – take this path and walk up the hill, bearing left and then going up the steep hill 3 towards farm buildings. Just before the buildings cross a stile on your left – follow the NFW markers to go round the back of the buildings and zig zag through a series of fields, before crossing the last field diagonally to emerge on the side of a driveway. Cross to the stile opposite and follow a short path to reach the road. Cross over the road and follow the public footpath towards Smisby. Smisby church is on the horizon ahead of you – keep this in your sights and aim for it to find the next stile which is slightly hidden in the hedgerow. Keep following the path around the side of a house, between two hedges, over a stile and into Smisby churchyard. There are seats here where you can take a moment to enjoy the beautiful surroundings(3). Leave the church by the path leading down to the right onto Annwell Lane. Turn right along the lane and follow it past Bluebell Arboretum to the T junction by the Tap House pub. Turn right and walk up 4 the footpath beside the main road until you reach the 50 sign. Cross over the road just after the sign, go through the metal gate and follow the path down the field edge. Part way down is a yellow marker post - bear right at the post and keep following the NFW markers down through the valley. As you go up the hill on the far side you will come to a junction of several paths. Take the path to the left which leads to a gate onto a wide green lane through pretty woodland(4). Keep straight ahead when you join the track to emerge onto Ashby Lane. Turn right on Ashby Lane and then left at the Black Lion pub. Pass by the Bluebell Inn and then Sandtop Lane, continuing straight on until you reach Sandtop Close. Turn left into Sandtop Close and first right into Thorntop Close. Between the houses at the end of the cul de sac is a footpath which takes you between two fences and through a field to the road. Cross straight over to the footpath opposite. Go through the metal gate and follow the path across several fields to reach Boothorpe Lane. Cross over the lane and follow the stiles across a field to emerge at the end of a trackway. Turn left and follow the lane through this quiet hamlet, keeping the houses on your right. The lane soon becomes a bridleway. Pass by Hilltop Wood on your right and keep straight to the end of the bridleway at Rawdon Road, near the main entrance to Conkers. Turn left and walk down the road until you pass underneath the railway bridge. Cross the road to the entrance to Sarah’s Wood (5). Walking down to the car park take the first 5 path off to your left – this leads you clockwise around Sarah’s Wood to reach an impressive new bridge over the Ashby Canal. Cross the bridge to Conkers Waterside, the end of this leg.

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

ashbeian mtg news

Busy, busy, busy...

This month readers of Ashby Life have the opportuntity to win tickets to see Anything Goes in April...

ALREADY into February, we are so close to bringing our wonderful pantomime Aladdin to Hind Leys College Theatre in Shepshed from 16th-20th February. Rehearsals have done a great deal to beat our winter blues. As you would expect, Wardrobe Mistress Di Whittall has had her work cut out as Aladdin is full of colourful costumes! With students from Dance Network continuing their association with AMTG, our audiences will be treated to another high quality production. Anything Goes rehearsals are also very exciting, and the big news is that once again we are introducing a new star! Karen Lee-Douglas who played the Duchess in our last production

‘Me and My Girl’ has brought along one of her dogs, rescued from a shelter, to play the part of ‘Cheeky’ on board the SS American - Tess, who is only a pup, has taken to her role perfectly and has melted the hearts of the whole company during rehearsals. Anything Goes will be performed at the 400 Hall at Repton School from 5th-9th April. Book your tickets by calling 07527 228945 or online ashbeianmtg.org New members are welcome at any stage during our rehearsal period, so if you are looking to join a great and friendly musical theatre company in any capacity contact us at ashbeian@hotmail.co.uk

Exclusive Competition

To win a pair of tickets to AMTG’s production of Anything Goes in April simply tell us the name of the dog on board the ‘SS American’ (the character not the actress!) Send your answer to us at: AMTG Competition, Ashby Life, Castle House, South Street, Ashby de la Zouch, LE65 1BR or email at: competition@ashbylife.co.uk

Entries close on Friday 26th February. The winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries. The winner will be notified and the tickets sent within 14 days of the closing date, the winners name will also be published on our Facebook page. Multiple or automated entries are not allowed. We will not pass your details to any third party.

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

seasonal recipes This is a traditional and warming casserole which is ideal to serve to the family during the chilly winter months. Serve with steamed green vegetables such as broccoli, Savoy cabbage or green beans.

Beef Stew with Horseradish Dumplings YOu WILL NEED

• 1kg braising steak, cut into chunks • 2 tbsp seasoned flour • 3 tbsp sunflower oil • 2 large onions, peeled and sliced • 300ml Guinness • 450ml beef stock • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Serves 4 Ready in 4 hours

• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced • 2 sprigs fresh thyme • 2 bay leaves

FOR THE DuMPLINGS • • • •

75g self-raising flour 40g shredded suet 1 tsp grated horseradish 1tbsp chopped fresh parsley

GET STARTED

1 Preheat the oven to 170°C, 325°F, Gas 3. Place the meat and seasoned flour in a large plastic freezer bag. Seal the bag and shake well, until the meat is coated in the flour.

2 Heat half the oil in a large frying pan and brown the meat in small batches, over a high heat. Add more oil if necessary. Transfer the meat to a large casserole dish. 3 Add the remaining oil to the pan and fry the onions for 5 minutes. Pour in the Guinness, stock and Worcestershire sauce and bring to the boil. Pour the liquid and onions over the meat and add the carrots, thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Cover and cook for about 3 hours until the meat is tender, stirring once. 4 To make the dumplings, place the flour, suet, horseradish and parsley in a large bowl. Season with ½ tsp salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper, then stir in enough cold water to mix to a soft dough. Using lightly floured hands, divide and shape into 8 dumplings.

5 Uncover the stew and gently sit the dumplings on top of the meat. Cover and cook for a further 20 minutes until the dumplings are fluffy and risen. Serve sprinkled with extra freshly ground black pepper.

TOP TIP An alternative to dumplings - top with sliced potatoes instead. Arrange 3 large peeled and thinly sliced potatoes on top of the stew after 2 hours cooking time. Season well and dot with butter. Return to the oven, uncovered, and cook for a further 1 to 1¼ hours until both meat and potatoes are tender.

These delicious sweet pastries are easy to make using just a sheet of ready-rolled puff pastry and caster sugar.

Mak appro es x2 Ready 8 1 hou in r

Palmiers YOu WILL NEED

• 1 x 375g pack ready-rolled puff pastry • 4 tbsp caster sugar • 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

GET STARTED

1 Unroll the puff pastry sheet and trim the edges to a neat rectangle, if necessary. Sprinkle over 2 tbsp of the caster sugar and half the cinnamon (if using). Using a rolling pin, gently roll over the sugar to lightly press it into the pastry.

2 Fold in the long sides of the pastry rectangle halfway towards the centre. Sprinkle over a little more caster sugar and press down with the rolling pin. Fold each long side in again to meet in the centre.

3 Sprinkle with the rest of the sugar and cinnamon (if using), then fold the pastry in half lengthways to form one long strip. Transfer to a board and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. 4 Preheat the oven to 220°C/425°F/ Gas 7. Dampen a large baking sheet by sprinkling with cold water. 5 Cut across the chilled pastry length into about 28 thin slices. Place the slices, cut-side down, on the baking sheet. Flatten each one slightly with the palm of your hand.

6 Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, until crisp and golden brown. Turn each slice over with a palette knife halfway through cooking. Transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool.

TOP TIP For savoury palmiers, spread the pastry with a little pesto sauce, then scatter over finely grated Parmesan cheese instead of the sugar.

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

castle medical group

BOUNCING BABY BOY CONGRATuLATIONS! We are delighted to announce that Dr Rebecca Hall had a little boy on Thursday, 7th january 2016 weighing 7lbs 14ozs. Both baby and mum are doing well.

We hope that our patients who have visited the new health centre have found it a good experience. Until we were operational we were not aware of what worked well and what needed to be changed, we are making small changes to our operational procedure as these come apparent and wish to thank our patients for their continued support while we adjust to the new building. Please bring to our attention anything you feel is not working and we will review it to see if we can make the procedure work better. There is a suggestion box in the lobby for your comments/suggestions or complete the online form on our website at www.castlemedicalgroup.co.uk.

uPDATE REGARDING DEAN & SMEDLEY. They have put in an appeal for the NHS Contract but have no further news at the moment. Currently, they can dispense private prescriptions, sell medications, give advice and act as a collection point for NHS prescriptions which can then be dispensed at their Market Street branch. Another new change on the horizon for Castle Medical Group is that we are changing our clinical system in April. We will have more information about this change in next monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edition.

Castle Medical Group, 118 Burton Road, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leics., LE65 2LP.

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

on the beat Hello everyone...

LEICESTERSHIRE Police is warning van drivers not to leave any tools or anything of value in their vehicles overnight. It follows a spate of offences mainly in the north of Leicestershire. Between 2nd and 8th November, 19 vans were broken into in locations like Loughborough, Hathern, Rothley, Shardlow and Ashby. Other offences have also happened in Burbage, Earl Shilton, Lutterworth and Cosby. Analysis shows that the offences are occuring during the hours of darkness from hotel car parks and when vehicles are parked outside or on the driveways of home addresses. We want to remind van drivers to remove their tools overnight and review their vehicle security. We have also been working closely with hotels to encourage them to improve car park security.

We have made some significant arrests recently but incidents are still being reported to us. We know that it can be inconvenient to remove tools from your van, especially if you are staying in a hotel, but it can be even more inconvenient if your tools are stolen and you can’t work until you replace them. Power tools can be really expensive which is why they are attractive to thieves so we’d urge builders and trade's people to think about the security of their vehicles, consider fitting a cage and a stronger external lock and think about where it is parked. We want to receive information about who is committing these offences, if you see any suspicious behaviour please report it to the police or use Crimestoppers which is free and anonymous. PREVENTION MEASuRES TO PROTECT YOuR TOOLS AND VANS: • Remove all tools from your van especially at night. • If you have a garage, use it. • Consider alarming the vehicle or fitting an internal security cage. • Park in well-lit areas. • If you park on a drive install security lights. • Visibly mark your machinery and tools and make a note of serial numbers. • If possible, reverse your van close to a wall. • Report any suspicious activity immediately. If you see any suspicious behaviour please call 101 or call Crimestoppers, which is free and anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

PC MARK ARjOO

call: 101 voicemail ID: 1667 email: mark.arjoo@leicestershire.pnn.police.uk

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

community board

FREE C ommu

Walk n run/ Lodge on u F K 3 ks

ic art in g to H r Egg Easte es 4 Kids, go a.3lo0nam and talkke. Spuitable

0 h will h at 1 un/Wa of Wis In aid y 27th Marc r Egg Fun R iendly), you ths. a fr a te p d s ir e n a a Su sid st E hch e lake ellery fir y (pus their v hole famil te around th ith a tasty w ng w u lo w e o a r d th for ic 3k sente rtificate. Go rson a scen be pre e follow nisher will nd event ce 6.50 per p fi a book g h st £ g to o E r C Eac r o . te h n atio d u wis d Eas earne dress if yo more inform ge & Richar .uk o r n cy in fan 3's free). Fo e contact A challenge.c e s r (Unde places plea egg@ivanho 9 r 48 your 125 9 t easte gton a r call 0775 o Bebbin

Ca nin e Par tne rs Qu iz Nig ht

ellness Cancer Wmme Progra n by nised and ru

ramme, orga w underway and ellness Prog A Cancer W re District Council, is no ramme helps prog rshi NW Leiceste affected by cancer. The aiding recovery e resilience, d helping thos ible an th ng ild stre as fit as poss people to bu em to stay active and so open to al th is g e in m lp he and he The sc part in the treatment. during their mpanying those taking ining this jo co in ac rs ed st re ca tere For those in ssment it’s not too late programme. se as an g in ok hire.gov.uk. rs bo te d es an ic e le m bey@nw program topher.maw contact chris

Join Canine Partners Quiz Nigh t between 6.30pm and 10pm on Friday 12th February to help transform the lives of adults with physical disabilities. Teams of six need to register for the event at their Midlands Centre in Osgathorpe. Tickets are by advanced booking only and cost £10 per person which includes hot food and a prize for the winning team. To purchase tickets or to find out more email helen w@canine partners.org.uk , call 01530 225 939 or visit caninepartners.org.uk.

The Chatterbox

l Ashby Additiona b Art Clu open

ub now New art cl noon on the 12 to am 9.30 of each ednesday second W isby Village Hall. Sm at th mon embers. for non-m £3 charge ts available. All en Refreshm elcome. See abilities w g for artclub.or www.ashby

group will meet A new informal discussion th from every first Friday of the mon rscroft Grange. Ulve at pm 3.45 – pm 2.30 new members on They will be welcoming 2.30pm. Booking from y ruar Feb 5th ay Frid entary tea and plim com and l ntia esse is all those cake will be available to ions will continue sess thly Mon g! ndin atte Foundation throughout 2016, with the £1 per person to of n atio don a ing com wel include a refreshment.

National Fore st Planting

The National Fo rest Company (NFC) has open ed Ro Changing Landsc und 9 of the apes Scheme, its largest fores t creation scheme.. They are landowners with looking for a minimum of one hectare of land in the Fores t who are intereste d in creating new woodland and associated habitats such as meadows, parkland and we tland. All of these are impo rtant to the development of the Forest. The Scheme is open for applications until 5pm on Fri day 8th April.

‘An Evening with Anne Boleyn’

Ash by To wn Co un cil ng s Calen dar of Me eti on Planning and Transportati and Licensing Meetings on 22nd February, 6.30pm to 7.30pm. Members of the nd public are welcome to atte lic and there is a slot for pub place questions. Meetings take et, at Legion House, South Stre Ashby.

nity N otices

Did you k page fre now you can pu e of cha t comm rge (sub u looking ject to sp nity informatio for new n on this ac informa m e m bers, vo e). So whether tion tha lunteers t you’d lik you are just ema or e il the de tails ove to let local peo just some ple know r to us a We’d lov t e to hea admin@ashbylif about r from y e.co.uk. ou!

Join Lesley Smith, historical speaker and curator of Tutbury Castle in her portrayal of Anne Boleyn on Saturday 12th March from 7.30pm. Admission £12.50 per ticket including light refreshments in aid of the ‘Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal’. Call 01530 416961 or email info@ashbytowncouncil.org.uk

THE ASHBY SUPPORT CA FÉ

A friendly drop -in support gr limiting illnes s in North Wes oup for anyone affected by t Leicestersh Hospice Hope ire. Ran by loc a life , the group m al ch 4pm at Legio eets every Fr n House, Sout iday from 1.30 arity, h Street, Ashb pm to patients and y de la Zouch. carers, go alo ng to Open support. For more informat relax, meet new people an to d get ion support@hosp call 07935 800 685 or em ail icehope.org.u k.

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

ashby museum news

ur new exhibition for the months of February and March will feature the history of the hamlet of Lount. Included will be photographs, maps, pottery, information on old housing and some aspects of the Staunton Harold estate such as the school, which also serviced Lount children. The exhibition is being collated by John MacDonald, Betty Cawte and Trevor Stewart. The Romans are coming! In February, the Kids' Club at the Museum will be looking at the Romans. Come and make a centurion's helmet or sacred altar. Discover your Roman name and much more. The club is on Saturday 6th February from 11am till 4pm. Open to all children of primary school age, who must be accompanied by an adult. Museum volunteers are working on supporting material for the Friends of the Bath Grounds. The Guide Book ‘Ashby de la Zouch: The Spa Town’ by Kenneth Hillier (first published in 1983 and with a new edition in 2003) is again being updated by the author, with information about happenings on the Grounds since the 1980s. It will be ready in the late Spring with a new

title: ‘The Ivanhoe Baths and the Bath Grounds’. Four volunteers - Pat Dixon, Wendy Freer, Lorna Titley and Ken Hillier - are producing two Information Boxes on the Spa: one for Primary School children and one for adults. These will be available from the start of the Autumn Term. Several walks and talks are also being planned, with the theme of the Spa Town. Further progress has also been made with our friends at St. Helen's Church, with their exciting plans to develop the Cottage and provide information boards and displays in their new build and within the church itself. These partnerships are all evidence of the Museum working in conjunction with other groups to explain and enhance the town's past heritage and present attractions. Any articles for our annual publication Ashby, Past and Present are most welcome. If you have something of interest to impart about some aspect of the town or its people and would like to have it published in the magazine, please get in touch with the museum on 01530 560090 or pop in in.

FRIENDS OF ASHBY MuSEuM The Friends of Ashby Museum are planning a programme for 2016. Details will be available on the website, through posters and this publication as soon as possible.

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

just 4 fun

Solutions on page 106.

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 106.

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

fitness tips

What NOT to do if you are new to the gym

with Fitness Republic Trainer Simon Pellecchia

www.fitnessrepublic.co.uk

THIS time of year is often when many of us decide to start an exercise plan perhaps by joining the gym, aiming to get ourselves in the shape we have dreamt about (Every january since we can remember!)

I have compiled a list of things that, in my experience and if you are new to the gym, you should not do as they might hinder your safe progress into a consistent gym goer.

ROuTINES OF THE PROFESSIONAL ATHLETES Trying to copy the routines of the athletes you see in the media, social media and in magazines could be quite costly to a beginner. You see, these athletes have been training for many years, and their programs often reflect that. It is not a representation of what they would have done as a new exerciser. These programs you see in the magazines could be quite dangerous if not executed properly.

SKIPPING THE WARM uP Warming up is the single most important part of any exercise plan. It prepares the body for what is about to come, and protects the body from injury. It’s easy as a new comer to think you can skip this but it will definitely come back and bite you in the butt later!

NEGLECTING THE BASICS Nowadays gyms are full of fancy equipment, that target the muscles from all kinds of angles, and while it is not necessarily wrong to use these, it is not a good idea to base your entire routine on them. They have their place, but mastering the basics will stand you in the best position for the future so stick to free-weight exercises like squats, rows, bench presses, shoulder presses etc.

TOO HEAVY TOO SOON Whilst heavy weight training is extremely effective in helping you achieve your goals, going too heavy too soon will have the opposite effect. Going too heavy will result in improper form and possible injury. It is far better to lift a lighter weight, so you can perform the exercises with perfect technique, and this will help you get the most from your training plan, and this way it won’t be long until you can increase the weight!

OVERTRAINING It’s easy as a beginner to do too much as you have an abundance of enthusiasm and may want to get results quick, but overtraining can really hold you back. Remember muscles don’t grow while you’re lifting but

when you rest and recover, so make sure you get adequate rest and resist the 7 days a week training option!

SELECTIVE TRAINING It is really easy to train the muscles that we can see and forget the ones we can’t. But often it is these unseen muscles that have the most impact in building a physique. For example, the back, which when developed gives you the athletic look you may be after. Try to train all muscles equally for a balanced physique. Oh and don’t forget the really hidden muscle that is the most important of all – The heart!

TRAINING PARTNERS One of the best ideas as a beginner you can have is to get a training partner. They can help in many ways. They can keep you company, keep you motivated, and help keep you safe whilst working out! However, choosing the wrong training partner can have an adverse effect. Remember you need someone who’s going to get you to the gym in times when you are finding it hard to go! BEING IMPATIENT Getting the physique you have dreamt of is not a quick process (sorry). It takes many years of consistent training to achieve the look that you will see in the magazines and on Instagram/ Facebook etc. However, to see real changes in your body can be take as little as 8-12 weeks. So stick with it, remember it’s a marathon not a sprint, keep going, keep working hard and you will definitely get there.

If you would like to start a gym plan but maybe feel a little nervous or self-conscious email me at simon@fitnessrepublic.co.uk and Iet me help you break the barriers down and hopefully we can get you started on what is definitely a most rewarding journey!

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

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 than 75% of the world’s food crops. Although some plants are pollinated by the wind, most need flying insects such as Bees which are attracted to flowers for their pollen and nectar.

ENJOY THE wildlife SO much enjoyment and interest is sparked by wildlife visiting our gardens and open spaces. At this time of year it’s the cheeky territorial Robin that will jump on your spade and in summer the regal Red Admiral Butterfly gorges for hours on Buddleia flowers. These little visitors are not only fascinating diversions from daily life but an important part of Biodiversity. The variety of plant and animal life as well as different species, habitats and ecosystems will encourage wildlife. By making open spaces and gardens more wildlife friendly, we can help stop the decline of what we happily think of as common species of birds, hedgehogs, frogs and insects. A simple log pile creates an ideal habitat for small hedgehogs and other small mammals, amphibians and all manner of insects. A pile of fallen leaves in damp shade will attract frogs, toads and newts. Water is so important to give birds and little creates a drink and a pond is possibly the most useful element in a garden for wildlife. Even creating a habitat, such as a Honeysuckle against a wall will encourage nesting birds. These birds will reward the gardener by eating slugs and snails.

Nectar and pollen rich flowers that attract insects will ensure plants are reproduced through seed. Many fruit and vegetable crops such as apples and strawberries and tomatoes set fruit because of insect pollination. Insects of course pollinate wild flowers, many garden plants and in fact more

It has recently been reported that insects such as beetles, butterflies, bees and wasps have declined by over 30% in the last 50 years. So that we can all help to stop this I have suggested just a small list, arranged by season, of readily available flowering plants which could be perfect for your garden to add vibrant seasonal colour over a long period and produce flowers rich in nectar and pollen - perfect for insect pollinators. For the winter season you could have, the common Snowdrop, Hellebore, Mahonia or Viburnham. In spring, Cotoneaster, Crocus, Euphorbia, Hebe or Malus. For summer, the list is long and includes Achillea, Cosmos, Echinacea, Lavandula and Sedum. Finally, in Autumn consider choosing Anemone, Aster, Chrysanthemum, Dahlia or Fatsia. The Wildlife Trust www.wildlifetrusts.org and the Royal Horticultural Society www.rhs.org.uk can provide more details on how to attract wildlife into the garden.

An increasing common form of wildlife that could be a problem, especially if you are in the surrounding edges of Ashby, will be the Muntjac deer. It is very pretty to look at, but the damage it can cause, by eating young shoots and leaves from newly coppiced or growing trees, is fast and immense. The Muntjac is a visitor you won’t be encouraging into your garden. A form of fencing will be required!

Happy gardening!

Francesca

Email info@francescasinclair.co.uk

GENERAL jOBS FOR FEBRuARY IN THE GARDEN: 1 Choose summer flowering bulbs such as Alliums, Canna, Dahlias, Eremurus, Gladiolus or Lillium 2 Cut back perennials and ornamental grasses which were left over winter 3 Divide large clumps of perennials 4 Keep deadheading pansies 5 In heavy clay soils work in some organic matter 6 Open vents in greenhouses.

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

money matters Editorial by Lisa Emery of Baldwins

Planning your Retirement THE retirement planning strategy you should adopt will depend on how close you are to retirement.

CLEARING DEBTS Since it is likely that your income will decrease anyway, the impact of any debt carried into retirement will have a more pronounced impact. An important first step is getting an accurate handle on how much you owe. You may have mortgage, credit card and other personal loans to factor into the equation. The interest rates on these debts are almost as important as the actual amount owed when planning on the best way reducing of them. Freeing yourself of debts takes some of the pressure off in other areas of retirement planning.

BOOSTING YOuR PENSION CONTRIBuTIONS Increasing the amount you regularly pay into either your work or private pension will increase the amount available to you when you retire. There is an annual allowance of £40,000 meaning you will be taxed if your savings for each year exceed this. You can, however, top up your allowance with any previously unused allowance

from the previous 3 years. Individuals who earn £150,000 or more will see their annual allowance reduced by £1 for every £2 above £150,000 down to a minimum of £10,000 from 6 April 2016.

BOOST YOuR STATE PENSION If you do not have enough years of paying national insurance, it is possible to ‘buy’ additional years in order to qualify.

YOuR PENSION OPTIONS The introduction of the pension freedoms in Budget 2014 were hailed as the most seismic reforms to pensions in decades. From April 2015, individuals were given the option of taking out their full pension pot in cash from the age of 55. This new option now sits alongside annuities and income drawdown plans as strategies for people to consider. You can take 25% of your pension pot tax-free, with the rest being charged at your marginal rate of tax. To discuss your requirements contact Lisa Emery on 01530 416688 or Lisa.emery@baldwinandco.co.uk

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

what’s on...

February

2nd February Ashby Royal British Legion Meet on the first Tuesday of the month (except January, August and November) at Ivanhoe Social Club -1 Wilfred Place, Ashby LE65 2GW at 7pm. Visitors welcome. For more information call 01530 417 747 or email ashby.royalbritishlegion@ gmail.com. Blackfordby WI Pennies for friends. Blackfordby Village Hall, 7pm, visitors welcome. For more information contact Gill Massey 01283 212 380. 4th February Ashby Castle WI Peter Wood – ‘Pole Lathe Turner’. A talk and demonstration at 2pm at Ashby Congregational Church. Visitors always welcome. £4 to include tea and cake, for further information contact Fran on 01530 414 933. 5th February Suffragette (12A) In early 20th century Britain, the growing suffragette movement forever changes the life of working class mother Maud Watts. Stars Carey Mulligan, Helena Bonham-

Carter and Meryl Streep. Century Theatre at Snibston, starts at 7.30pm. Tickets £3.50 pay on the door or call 01530 278 444. 6th February Quiz Night with Ashby Castle Rotary Club The return of the popular quiz night to be held at Hood Park Leisure Centre. Teams of 4 required with prizes to the winning team. A hot buﬀet and licensed bar available all evening. Tickets to be booked in advance at £10 a head with all proﬁts to Rotary charities. Fun starts at 7pm prompt. For tickets please call Ian Stubbs on 01283 212 650.

10th February Ashby Ivanhoe Travel Club ‘Wonderings of a Cycling photographer’ by T Williams. Pithiviers Room at Ivanhoe Technology College at 7.30pm to 9pm. There is no joining fee or annual subscription, just a minimal charge of £1.50 per meeting. All are welcome for any of their meetings, for further information call Julie Nelson on 01530 588 197 or email juliesportsfan@ yahoo.co.uk. Ashby Wine Circle ‘Winter Wines Tasting’ by Barry Clarke. For more details call Barry on 01530 417 110. Meetings held 7.30pm on the second Wednesday in the month at Brown Court, Atkinson Road, Westﬁelds, Ashby, LE65 2LZ. 12th February ‘Far from the Madding Crowd’ At Packington Memorial Hall, 7pm for 7.30pm start. Canine Partners Quiz Night Get your thinking caps on and join Canine

8th February Ashby History Society ‘Home of the Greys’, Peter Liddle, local archaeologist, speaks on the history of the Grey family and recent excavations at their homes, Groby Old Hall and Bradgate Park. Meeting held at Methodist Church, Burton Road, Ashby de la Zouch commencing at 7.30pm. Visitors welcome to attend, talks £3. For more details call Susanne Tandy on 01530 415 654.

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Partners Quiz Night to help transform the lives of adults with physical disabilities. Teams of six need to register for the event at their Midlands Centre in Osgathorpe on Friday 12th February between 6.30pm and 10pm. Tickets are by advanced booking only and cost £10 per person which includes hot food and a prize for the winning team. Arrive at 6.30pm with the quiz starting at 7pm. To purchase tickets or to ﬁnd out more email helenw@caninepartners.or g.uk, call 01530 225 939 or visit caninepartners.org.uk. 17th February Ashby Spa WI ‘Folk tales and funny folk’. Manor House, South Street at 7.30pm. Visitors welcome for £4. For more information call 01530 563 682 or email ashby.spa@ googlemail.com. 18th to 20th February ‘The Anniversary’ A wicked comedy by Bill Macilwraith. The Venture Theatre, North Street, Ashby de la Zouch. Tickets from Ashby TIC 01530 411

767 and online at www. ticketsource.co.uk/ashby dramaticsociety or see their website ashbyventure theatre.org.uk 19th February LRWT North West Group ‘40 Years of Twitching’ with David Scott. He shares the highs and lows of twitching in the UK which has resulted in his life list of 449 birds. Ashby Methodist Chapel, Burton Road, Ashby, 7.30pm. Entry £2. For more details please call David Maltby on 01530 222 934 or Margaret Mabey on 01530 412 410. 20th February Ashby Farmers Market 9am to 2pm at Manor House South Street. Bringing you the ﬁnest foods from the region and specialist stalls. Free parking. T.Rextasy The world's only oﬃcial live tribute band dedicated to Marc Bolan & T.Rex, returning to the Century after four previous sell-out shows. Century Theatre at Snibston, starts 7.30pm. Tickets £18 advance, £20 on the door. Book online at www.centurytheatre.co.uk or call 01530 278 444. 23rd to 27th February ‘Whistle Down the Wind’ Caos presents an amateur production by arrangement with The Really Useful Group Ltd at Hind Leys Community College Theatre, Shepshed. For tickets call 01530 834 534 or visit www.caos.org.uk. 24th February ‘AFAR’ A talk by Julie Fraser from Ashby Civic Society, from 2.15pm at Prior Park Community Centre. Members £2 nonmembers £3.

24th February 'Walk in the Woods' Travel writer, Bill Branson (Robert Redford) takes a long lost friend (Nick Nolte) for a hike along the Appalachian trail. Take a walk to the Lyric Rooms. Hiking boots not necessary. Ashby Community Cinema Film Nights. 24th to 27th February ‘The Anniversary’ A wicked comedy by Bill Macilwraith. The Venture Theatre, North Street, Ashby de la Zouch. Tickets from Ashby TIC 01530 411 767 and online at www. ticketsource.co.uk/ashby dramaticsociety or see their website ashbyventure theatre.org.uk 26th February Spectre (12A) Daniel Craig returns as 007 in the latest, spectacular James Bond ﬁlm, alongside Christoph Waltz & Ralph Fiennes. Century Theatre at Snibston, starts 7.30pm. Tickets £3.50 pay on the door. Call 01530 278 444. 27th February An evening with Sergeant White It is August 1914 and Sgt Frederick White of the Royal Warwick-shire Regiment is recruiting for King, Country and Empire. Featuring performance historian John White. Century Theatre Snibston, starts 7.30pm. Tickets £7.50 advance, £9 on the door. Book online at www.centurytheatre.co. uk or call 01530 278 444. Ballroom and Sequence Dancing With organist Graham Darby. Blackfordby Village Hall, from 8pm to 11pm. Admission £3, bar/ refreshments/raﬄe. For more details call 01283 213 481 or 01283 819 447.

Grimethorpe Colliery Band Concert The Concert will take place at Burton Town Hall, starting at 7pm. For tickets please call 01283 569 677 or 07939 0124 58. The choir and band will provide an outstanding evening of entertainment with music to suit a wide variety of tastes. The concert is ticket only so please purchase tickets now to avoid disappointment.

and November), at Ivanhoe Social Club, 1, Wilfred Place, Ashby LE65 2GW at 7pm. Visitors welcome, for more information call 01530 417 747 or email ashby.royalbritishlegion@g mail.com.

28th February 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.

2nd March Ashby Ivanhoe Travel Club ‘National Trust Stoneywell, Charnwood Forest’ by R Mitchell. Pithiviers Room at Ivanhoe Technology College at 7.30pm to 9pm. There is no joining fee or annual subscription, just a minimal charge of £1.50 per meeting. All are welcome for any of their meetings. For further information call Julie Nelson on 01530 588 197 or email juliesportsfan@ yahoo.co.uk.

March 1st March Ashby Royal British Legion Meets on the ﬁrst Tuesday of the month (except January, August

Blackfordby WI ‘The A- Z of Calke’ at Blackfordby Village Hall, 7pm, visitors welcome. For more information contact Gill Massey 01283 212 380.

It’s FREE to put community information on this page. Please submit your event details via email to admin@ashbylife.co.uk or online at www.ashbylife.co.uk/events.php Deadline for submissions for the Community Board or What’s On pages for the March issue is Thursday 11th February. 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.

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

body matters

Metatarsalgia

with Sarah Kavanagh, Ashby Osteopathic Clinic

www.ashbyosteopath.com

DAY-TO-DAY we give very little thought to our feet. Yet they are responsible for bearing the weight of our whole body. This month I am going to discuss a fairly common type of foot pain known as metatarsalgia. What is Metatarsalgia?

Your foot contains 26 bones. The muscles, tendons and ligaments within your foot form the arches. We have both longitudinal and transverse arches. It is these arches that allow your feet to support the weight of your body.

The metatarsals are the 5 long bones in your feet which make up your forefoot. The first and fifth metatarsal heads are padded and in normal weight bearing they should bear 85% of our body weight. If gait or posture are abnormal then this weight will be transferred to the second, third and fourth metatarsal heads, which are not padded and will become tender. This tenderness/pain in the ball of the foot is metatarsalgia.

Metatarsalgia usually comes on gradually. It can be felt in the ball of your foot. It is often made worse by standing, walking and running. Some people describe that they feel as though they are standing on pebbles. Others just feel an ache. It can be tender to touch.

What causes Metatarsalgia?

Some examples include:

• Overuse – starting a new activity which your feet are unaccustomed too

• Wearing high heels – this unnaturally places more weight bearing on the forefoot and as a result can upset the metatarsal heads

• Overweight or recent weight gain such as in pregnancy

• Stiffness in the ankles – may change the way you distribute weight in your feet. • High arches (pes cavus)

• Disorders of the foot including; stress fracture, arthritis, gout, previous foot surgery • Toe deformities including hammer toe, halllux rigidus, hallux valgus (bunions) How can it be treated?

The most important thing is to establish the cause. The following things can help relieve the symptoms: • resting your feet

• losing weight if you are overweight

• avoid wearing high heels and wear sensible well fitting shoes with good support.

• manual therapy such as osteopathy to establish the cause of your symptoms and treat the cause.

This may involve hands on manipulation, prescription of exercises, arch supports etc. In some cases treatment may require surgery such as straightening a claw or hammer toe.

As with all medical conditions a correct diagnosis is of paramount importance for the appropriate treatment and management of the condition. For more information on the clinic, to discuss a particular case, or to book an appointment please call Sarah Kavanagh or Tristan Hill on 01530 440 442 or email contact@ashbyosteopath.com. Please feel free to visit www.ashbyosteopath.com

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Thought for the month

“There are things in life that we can control and things in life that we can’t control. Unfortunately we have no control over which is which.” This little nugget of wisdom was taken from ‘The Little Read Book’ by local author; Mike Arblaster. Available now from book stores or online at Amazon, priced £9.99.

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

spotlight on Each month we turn the spotlight on a local charity and tell you more about the work they do, how they support our local community and how you can, in turn, support them. This month we take a closer look at St Giles Hospice, an independent Midlands charity caring for people living with cancer and other serious illnesses. FOuNDED in 1983, St Giles has become one of the leading providers of care and support for local people and their families affected by life-threatening illness, in the region. Each week St Giles cares for over 500 patients both in hospices and in the home. In fact, 80% of their care is delivered out in the community. With 1 in 3 of us touched by hospice care in our lifetime, there will be many local people today and in the future, in need of the care and support provided by St Giles Hospice and their highly dedicated team.

The range of specialist services is provided free of charge to all who need it and the charity relies heavily on donations and fundraising through the support of the local community to provide their care. So how can you help? – a fete or garage sale or gaining sponsorship to take part in a daredevil activity or marathon – or joining in one of the many fundraising activities organised by St Giles Hospice, which take place throughout the year. Alternatively, you might like to join the St Giles Hospice Lottery, which costs £1 a week to enter and offers fabulous prizes, plus great benefits including the Promise Card, which offers special discounts at more than 150 local shops and businesses. For further information visit their website www.stgileshospice.com and don’t forget to call into either St Giles Book Shop at the bottom of Market Street or the larger general store round on Bath Street if you’re looking for a bargain. To celebrate Valentine’s Day later this month, St Giles Hospice are offering you the chance to send an exclusively-designed personalised Valentines Card and message to your Valentine, in return for a donation to help care for local people. HERE’S HOW TO TAKE PART:

comes in a pink envelope.

Step 1. Visit www.stgileshospice. com/valentine, to choose your favourite of the two exclusively designed cards for your Valentine: 'Love at the Lamppost' or 'Umbrella Kisses'. Each

Step 2. You’ll be asked if you would like to receive the card blank to write your own message in, or complete a message online with the name and address of your Valentine, which will be printed in the card and posted directly to them.

In exchange for this wonderful service, you’ll then get the opportunity to make a donation to St Giles Hospice to help support their work.

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

storytime “Knock, knock! Saw you weren’t in your cubicle earlier.” Amanda’s unwelcome head appeared above the partition between hers and Kay’s desks. “Has someone been out for a sneaky Valentine’s lunch with ‘Mister You Know Who’?” Having an imaginary boyfriend was fraught with complications, but it was better than the alternative. Ever since Amanda had married the marvellous Bertie, she had transformed into the type of person who cannot rest until everyone is happily married off. Kay had been bullied into a

THE EXT RE ME

Ironing by Jackie Brewster

C LU B

succession of blind dates with Bertie’s socially awkward friends from the Extreme Ironing Club. There are only so many prawn cocktails anyone can eat while hearing about the thrills of the great outdoors coupled with the satisfaction of a well pressed shirt. Kay had not been for a romantic lunch. She’d been at the parcel office collecting a package. She decided to lie anyway. “He’s working in Brussels again,” she said breezily. It was a useful lie, but one she knew she shouldn’t rely on. There was a danger that the slightest suggestion her imaginary beau wasn’t fully committed would have Amanda arranging prawn cocktails with the ironing bores again. “So has the lovely Bertie been showering you with gifts?” Kay asked, in a hurry to change the subject. “Bertie loves to spoil me,” Amanda blushed. “How about your mystery man? He must have sent you something to mark the occasion?” “Of course.” Kay gave herself a mental pat on the back for having planned ahead, and reached into her pocket to retrieve a gold plated charm bracelet. She’d bought it yesterday from a swarthy looking man on the market. As it only cost five pounds she suspected it would turn her wrist green, but it was flashy enough from a distance to impress Amanda, who loved anything that sparkled. “Darling Bertie gave me this. He really shouldn’t have, it must have cost the earth.” Amanda held out her arm. “He had it custom made in the jewellery quarter.” Kay dropped the bracelet quickly back into her pocket, and leaned forward in order to better admire an identical charm bracelet around Amanda’s wrist. “Do you think I should get it valued for insurance purposes?” Amanda asked.

“Surely it’s the thought that counts?” Kay suggested kindly. For once she felt sorry for Amanda. It seemed she was not the only one who felt under pressure to embellish the truth. “I suppose you’re right.” Amanda admired her awful bracelet, and then noticed the large package beneath Kay’s desk. “Is that it?” “Oh, this?” Kay panicked, realising she needed to produce an alternative Valentine’s gift. “Yes, it’s from him. I’ve just collected it.” “Aren’t you going to open it?” “Not now.” Kay’s mouth went dry. She’d made a tactical mistake. “I’m supposed to be working.” “You must!” Amanda insisted, wrenching the parcel from Kay’s grip. “He could phone any moment to see if you liked it.” Kay knew exactly what the parcel contained, having ordered it three days ago online. Powerless to intervene, she watched Amanda slicing through the packaging tape with her razor sharp nails. The item, wrapped in plastic, was pulled from the box. “What is that exactly?” Amanda said, holding it up. “It’s an anti-bacterial soft close toilet seat,” Kay said. Amanda looked at her suspiciously. “Just what I’ve always wanted,” she added hopefully. “I’ve just realised something about you Kay,” Amanda said, as though seeing her colleague properly for the first time. Kay braced herself for Amanda’s dreaded epiphany. “Bertie’s pals from the Extreme Ironing Club were all far too normal for you weren’t they?”

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

venture theatre news “It's a very cathartic experience to dare to lift the rock and see what actually goes on behind some closed doors.” This intriguing comment was made recently by the Director of our next production, The Anniversary, a wicked comedy by Bill Macilwraith.

‘Roll up, Roll up...’

THE play dissects the family unit, and in particular motherhood, or a certain version of it. The mother in question has three sons whom she has lacerated with her warped love, binding them to her with gifts, threats and a ruthless exploitation of their weaknesses. But as the family is unwillingly brought together to celebrate Mum's wedding anniversary - regardless of a deceased Dad - revolt is in the air. People will probably recognise the relationships between the family members in the play, though hopefully their own experiences won't be so extreme!

Director, Dave Steward told us “I must have an affinity with 1960s plays as all the plays I've directed at The Venture are from that decade. I find there's a stark down-to-earth honesty about plays from that period but maybe, an undercurrent of hope as well. 60s playwrights were afraid of nothing.”

The play opens on Thursday 18th and runs to Saturday 20th February and from Wednesday 24th to Saturday 27th February 2016. Tickets at £8 and £9 are available from Ashby Tourist Information Centre (tel 01530 411767) or online at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ashby dramaticsociety.

For lovers of malicious gossip, jawdropping insults and brutally funny oneliners, The Anniversary is two hours of pure bliss!

For those who like to plan in advance, our April production will be ‘Arms and the Man’ by George Bernard Shaw, a humorous play that shows the futility of war and deals comedically with the hypocrisies of human nature.

For more information about the theatre visit our website ashbyventuretheatre. org.uk or, better still, consider becoming a member. Prospective members are always welcome on Club Nights which are held in the theatre every Monday from 8.30pm. Whether you want to act, help with lighting, paint the set, help behind the bar or on front of house, or just come and see what goes on behind the scenes, we’ll be pleased to see you.

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

chess puzzle

CHESS PuZZLE WHITE TO PLAY AND MATE IN THREE. If February makes you shiver, why not enjoy the warmth of the Ashby Ivanhoe Chess Club? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s every Thursday at 7.30pm. This position looks like curtains for White, unless a Sir Galahad can leap into action. Surely he can take one more step to save the day?

Our chess puzzle comes courtesy of local resident Richard Vann, the solution can be found on page 106 - should you need it!

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

www.ashbychurch.co.uk

IT’S ALL ABOUT LOVE

FLOWERS or chocolate? A bottle of bubbly or a simple card? However you say ‘I love you’ this Valentine’s day, millions of us will spend a considerable amount of time and money in order to do so. Maybe you're considering a special gesture to really show the one you love just how much they mean to you? Many people say they would do anything for the person they love, but what is the ultimate act of love? Would you be willing to sacrifice your life in order to save the person or people you love? In the gospel of John, it says, ‘For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have everlasting life.’ This really is an incredible verse if we stop to

Editorial by Ashby Christadelphian Church, Union Passage, Ashby

www.ashbychurch.co.uk

think about it. Jesus died a horrible death on the cross for you and for me - all because God loves us. God loves us so much that he wants us to be a part of his coming kingdom, here on earth, where we will live forever. This might sound a bit fanciful, but it is promised by God in the Bible. The Bible is full of God's love for us, from his beautiful creation right at the beginning, through to the life and teaching of his son, Jesus, and finally to the promise of the return of Jesus to set up God's kingdom here on earth.

If you would like to find out more about God’s love, why not come along to one of our First Steps Sundays? Just like taking that first step towards building any relationship, we have to start somewhere in building a relationship with God – remember, he already loves you, so how about taking a chance and see what he has to say.

Useful Bible passage: John ch3 v16.

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

puzzle page ACROSS

quICK CROSSWORD

Maybe (7) Bike (5) Cleaning liquid (7) Precise (5) Additional (5) Cooking area (7) Truthful (6) Moves smoothly (6) Dried grapes (7) Aristocratic (5) A small fruit (5) Graceful (7) Countryside (5) Large jug (7)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 12 13 15 16 18 20 21

Ski run (5) Cook in a hot oven (5) Becomes visible (7) Scares (6) Trunk (5) Collided (7) Makes larger (7) Marina (7) Louder (7) Tolerant (7) Not awake (6) Perfect (5) Overbearing (5) Go into (5)

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.

SUDOKU 92

Solutions on page 106

DOWN

1 5 8 9 10 11 12 14 17 19 22 23 24 25

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 106.

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

friends of bath grounds

Fr e e C o m m u n i t y A c t i v i t i e s ANYONE can take part in this exciting programme of free community events and activities in and around the Bath Grounds later this year. There will be something to suit everyone, no matter what your age or interests.

All activities form part of the Bath Grounds Improved Accessibility and Community Heritage Project, funded by the Heritage Lottery which also helped to finance the beautiful new path. Come and take part in - or enjoy watching/ listening to:

• Community Archaeology

• Community Mosaics

• The Ballad of the Bath Grounds Performance

• The premiere of 'Polkas and Pustules', a short, dramatic film about the Ivanhoe Spa

• Guided walks around the new Bath Grounds Heritage Trail

• Talks on the history of the Bath Grounds and Ashby's Ivanhoe Spa There will be three weeks of archaeological activities during May, june and july, organised and supervised by professional archaeologists. An introductory talk will take place in Ashby Museum at 7.00pm on Tuesday 22nd March before activities begin in May. Get hands on experience or come along to watch what we discover.

The Community Mosaics will be part of Ashby Arts Festival Weekend on Sunday 29th May. Help create a

large fish mosaic, with the help and guidance of a local, professional artist. With your input we will commemorate the Castle fishponds which were once located on the Bath Grounds and neighbouring Bullen's Field.

A ballad, specially written for the occasion (to a well-known tune), will be performed on the Bath Grounds – also on Sunday 29th May. Anyone and everyone is welcome to join in. Sing or play, the choice is yours. Bring your harmonica, ukelele, guitar, tambourine. There will be a run-through/ rehearsal in the middle of May.

Local film makers, Pudding Bag Productions, will premiere their film, 'Polkas and Pustules', at the Venture Theatre on Saturday 28th May. It forms part of the 'Quick Flicks 2016' Arts Festival event. Don't miss it! Guided walks and talks will be led by Ashby Museum. The programme will start with a combined walk and talk on Saturday 23rd April.

Keep an eye out for more details and information. Contact the Friends of Ashby Bath Grounds:

Email: bathgroundsfriends@gmail.com Project website: www.bathgroundsfriends.com Address: 16 Tower Gardens, Ashby de la Zouch LE65 2GZ

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

book reviews Get ready to download a Barry White compilation. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the rush of first love, a slow-burning romance, or the everlasting bond between friends, love is definitely in the air.

100

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

101

102

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

103

fun quiz

Answers on page 106

104

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

105

PuZZLE SOLuTIONS - CROSSWORD - SuDOKu - CODEWORD & MORE... WORD LADDER

Snow, Show, Shod, Shed, Seed, Feed, Feel, Fell, Fall.

WORDWHEEL TARGETS & ANSWER Excellent: 40+ words, Good: 32, Fair: 27. ANSWER: Chestnut.

CHESS PuZZLE FuN quIZ

1.Ng4+ Re5 2 Bxe5+ qf6 3.Bxf6 check mate

1. King Midas 2. The Lone Ranger 3. Ghana 4. 30 5. El Dorado 6. Rolls-Royce 7. 75% (24 carat gold is pure gold) 8. Argentina (from "argentum") 9. Rumpelstiltskin 10. Copper,

106

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

107

108

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

109

business directory Accountants & Payroll Ashby Payroll Bureau 19 Baldwins 59 Haines Watts 111 37 JAWS Accountancy Services Ltd Aerials & Satellite 18 Satellite Aerial Services Architects DCI Architecture 61 Niche Architecture 37 Arts, Crafts, Gifts, jewellery, Toys Ashby Bears 103 Knittiquip 62 Builders Keith Armston Building Contractors 86 Carpenters & joiners Derek Verey 81 S S Joinery 102 Carpets & Interiors Abbots Wardrobes 77 Agadon 3 Ashby Carpets 5 Ashby Stoves 83 Boundary Carpets and Floorings 78 Coalville Furniture Superstore 25 Fairweathers Carpets 82 Richardsons Furniture 39 Roger James Furnishers 18, 69 & 106 The Bed Shop 13 The Flooring and Bed Company 94 & 95 The Station Ltd 67 Toons 31 Wendy's Courtyard Interiors 12 Cleaning, Ironing, Laundry Services Breedon Carpet Care 28 Deanclean 37 Jayne’s Extreme Clean 86 Karen’s Ovengleam 90 NJR Pure Clean 6 Safeclean 30 Spotless Cleaning 98 The Bee’s Knees 107 Toni's Ironing Angels 81 Clothing The Shoe Box 15 Country Stores/ General Stores Ivanhoe Countrystore 17 Domestic Appliances Contracool 103 Contract & Domestic Services 81 Ray Pittam Engineers 91 Driving Schools Bardon School of Motoring 106 Jo Driving 98 RDT School of Motoring 9 Electricians A & J Bartlett Ltd 62 Bright Sparks 107 D & B Electrical 39 M Bunker Electrical 61 Estate Agents/Home Services Deighton McKenzie 11 & 63 John German 99 Events/Public Notices Ivanhoe Way Challenge 27 Ashby Parking Space 71

110

Financial Services Bleathwood 21 DGS, IFA 10 Ian Goodship, IFA 15 109 Regent Financial Management Florist 18 Holywell Petals Food & Groceries Ashby Farmers Market 93 Conibears Kitchen 98 9 I Love Crepes Smithards Bakery 50 Funeral Services Art Stone Memorials 109 Measham Family Funeral Service 80 Furniture Repairs & Restoration Ancient & Modern 109 Garden Artisan of Ashby Ltd 84 Charnwood Tree Services 107 Eden Tree Care 61 & 70 F G Gardens 91 Francesca Sinclair & Associates 6 GDR Landscapes 18 Green Thumb (Ashby) 53 Roughly Refined Garden Service 51 Stone Drives & Landscapes 55 Tindle Tree Company 35 Hair & Beauty K H Hair 46 Nail Creations and The Beauty Studio 77 Puré Manicure & Pedicure 9 Tip Top Hair Design 90 Trendset Hair 33 Healthcare Ashby Chiropody/Podiatry Clinic 40 Ashby Dental 9 Ashby Osteopathic Clinic 69 Dr Jin 83 Future Minds 43 Grief Support 61 Janet Joyce 90 Juliet Brooke Chiropody 103 Leicestershire Hypnotherapy 74 Prestige Nursing 45 ProPhysio Ashby 75 Seale Pastures House 101 Slimming World 27 Therapeutic Touch 66 Traditional Acupuncture 27 IT Services Ashby Web Design 19 Midland IT 35 The PC Clinic 73 Kitchens & Bathrooms Ashby Tile & Bathrooms 2 Holme Tree Kitchens 71 Victory Kitchens 104 Locksmiths Hazlewood Locksmiths 91 Motor Services A D Car Cosmetics 32 Castle Garage (Ashby) Ltd 26 Chips Away 14 Marc Duncan 89 Speedy Auto Spares 30

Music, Dance & Drama Ashby School of Music 109 Painters & Decorators Ace Decorating 15 66 Design Decorators 9 Holywell Painting & Decorating 93 James Pepper Decorating John Clark 6 Pet Services Ash Farm Boarding Kennels 103 74 Mutley Makeovers Woodward Veterinary Practice 51 Places of Worship Ashby Christadelphian Church 88 Plasterers 98 A C Ellison Plastering & Tiling D Osborne 18 Matt Charles Plastering Services 62 Plumbers & Gas Services Adrian Dunstan Plumbing & Heating 43 Batemans Plumbing & Heating 60 Burn & Bishop Plumbing & Heating 74 CCA Gas Plumbing & Heating 40 D B Plumbing 98 James Pepper Property Solutions 58 S D Hill (Plumbers) 7 Therm Heating 66 Property Repairs & Maintenance Absolute Window Solutions 108 Ashby Glass 79 Ashbyhandyman.co.uk 97 Can’t Get One 77 Cloudy 2 Clear 42 D H Phillips (Flat Roofing) 71 G & D Property Services Ltd 105 Handyman Maintenance 38 James Beckett Property Maintenance 12 Michael Brooks Home Improvements 45 Roof Tech 97 RSJ Roofing 73 Swadlincote Window Company Ltd 29 TS Roofing 69 Thermogreen Ltd 55 Window Mate 46 Pubs, Restaurants & Take Aways Espresso Yourself 66 Fuel Café & Juice Bar Ltd 47 George Inn 34 La Spezia Pizzeria 86 Link Measham Cantonese 23 The Blue Bell 30 The Larder 87 Wong Kwei 85 Zamani's 56 & 57 Schools & Tuition Kumon Educational 45 Solicitors & Will Writers Crane & Walton 6 Martin Hall Will Writer 43 Simpson Jones Solicitors 22 Timms Solicitors 54 Sports & Fitness Breedon Priory Health Club Ltd 112 Fitness Republic 49 Wedding Services Foxtail Lily Weddings 87

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk

Please mention ASHBY LIFE when responding to adverts

111

112

Find us on the web at www.ashbylife.co.uk