Ashbylife aug14 emag

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this issue 99 Ashby Life Editor Liz Roberts Telephone 01530 417739 Email enquiries Advertising/Accounts info@ashbylife.co.uk Website/What’s On admin@ashbylife.co.uk

It's the August issue!

Yes, we are now back to 12 issues per year, one for every month. Many thanks to all the writers and advertisers who worked hard to get their copy to us for our early summer deadline for this issue.

If you are looking for ways to make the most of the holiday period, without spending a fortune, check the This Month article on page 6 for some ideas. One of my favourite ways of enjoying the great countryside around here is with a good walk so you can imagine how pleased I was to hear that The National Forest Way is now open - read more about this and just how good walking can be for you on page 78. See you next month.

Liz Roberts

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Web www.ashbylife.co.uk Facebook www.facebook.com/ ashbylife Twitter @AshbyLife Address Ashby Life Ltd Castle House South Street Ashby de la Zouch LE65 1BR

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Front Cover Image by Lesley Hextall Photography 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.

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Contents 06 10 14 18 22 26 30 34 38 42 46 50 54 58 62 66 70 74 76 78 82 86 90 94 98 102 108 110

This Month Ashby Museum News Seasonal Recipes Ashby Health Centre Just 4 Fun Prize Competition A Walk in the Forest Venture Theatre News In Your Garden Wordsearch Community Board Ashby Library News Storytime All About You Book Reviews In Your Home Puzzle Page It’s Local Young Ashby Out and About Christadelphian Church Back Chat Plant of the Month Money Matters Behind the Scenes What’s On Puzzle Solutions Business Directory

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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 Next issue is September and deadline for copy is Friday 8th August Please note advertising space is limited, pre-booking is recommended 4

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this month So what are you to do when the summer break is long, but funds are short? First of all remember that you don’t have to go abroad to enjoy a summer holiday:

Summer holidays on a budget There are loads of lovely locations within the UK that offer great beaches and wonderful scenery.

Pack up a tent for a reasonably priced week away or search the internet for last minute bargains – one of our best family holidays was five days in a mobile home on a site in Devon, the price had been slashed as it had been a last minute cancellation and they were unable to fill it for the week. I also have great memories of a childhood summer when my parents announced that as we couldn’t afford to go away that year we would instead stay at home and have day trips out. Spending a day with mum and dad having a picnic and paddling in a local stream can actually be a lot more fun that spending hours in a car driving to a faraway location for children!

When the weather is good enough to be outdoors and enjoying some fresh air try these: • Set up camp in the back garden – enjoy cooking your dinner over a camp fire in the fresh air and sleep out too.

• Go pond-dipping – a simple fishing net is inexpensive (Shellbrook Toys at the bottom of Kilwardby Street usually have them), take an empty container so you can take a look at the creatures you may find.

What about rainy days? Then try these: • Get cooking! Anything from juices (use that produce from the Pick Your Own visit) to cakes or ice lollies.

• Curl up with a book. Visit the library and browse their titles then lose yourself with a good read.

• Have a games marathon – another one for a group of children. This can either be traditional board games like Monopoly or card games or an electronic version. Multiplayer computer games can be organised into a knock out or points scoring marathon with plenty of fun and interaction.

• Take a picnic to a local park or beauty spot – there are absolutely loads of good picnic sites in the National Forest. The grounds at Calke Abbey are • Get even wetter! I don’t know why but outdoor fantastic and free providing you walk in via one of the many footpaths that swimming pools always feel pass through the site. warmer when it’s raining, • Visit a Pick Your Own – try Cattows Farm at Heather or Scaddows at Ticknall. plus they are much quieter Enjoy a fun trip out and bring home some lovely fresh fruit too.

– pop down to Hood Park • Go on a really long walk – pack up lunch and drinks and head off on an Leisure Centre and enjoy the adventure! indoor or outdoor pools.

• Fly a kite – head out to the local park on a breezy day.

• Organise your own sports day or water park. Get out all the sports equipment you have, or put up the paddling pool and get out the sprinkler and water pistols. Fabulous for a whole group of children but make sure you have towels and refreshments at the ready.

• Have a day at the pool. If you don’t fancy all that water dripping through the • Keep a scrap book. Again house then what about a day at the outdoor pool at Hood Park Leisure Centre? this can be traditional, • Go on a bike ride – take a trip out to Hicks Lodge where there are loads of writing notes about what bike trails. Donisthorpe Country Park, the Cloud Trail and the Ashby Woulds Trail you’ve done and sticking and all good for bikes too. in pictures or keepsakes, or electronic using soft• Keep an eye out for local fetes, carnivals or family fun days (look in our What’s ware to arrange notes and On or check our Facebook page). Entry is usually low cost or even free pictures. sometimes.

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ashby museum news

We Will Remember Them...

B

ritain entered the Great War on 4th August, 1914. For the next few years we will be particularly remembering all those from this area who fought or took part in that dreadful conflict.

We will especially pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Ashby Museum will be putting on a major display on the topic from the beginning of August until we close in the week prior to Christmas. Using material from our own archives and the generous loan of other memorabilia from local people, the exhibition will tell the story of how the war affected the people back home as well as those in the various services.

The surrounding villages - Blackfordby, Breedon, Coleorton, Packington, Smisby and Staunton Harold/ Lount - will also be well represented, thanks to the support of individuals and groups from those settlements.

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These villages, with the addition of the Applebys, Measham and Ravenstone, have produced a book of 361 pages, entitled ‘Lest We Forget: In Memory of the Fallen in the Great War’. It will be launched, with two other books in the series, (The Northern Parishes and the Ibstock area) at Snibston Discovery Centre on Monday, 28th July, by Jennifer Lady Gretton, H.M. Lord Lieutenant for Leicestershire and Rutland. The book, which details what evidence has been found by a team of amateur researchers of all those who fell from the towns and villages (often with an illustration of the individual), will be on sale at local museums and other centres from the start of August.

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seasonal recipes utterly delicious and can be cooked on the BBQ Serves Ready 4 in 90 min s

Sweet Chilli Coconut Skewers YOu WILL NEEd For the Skewers

For the Coconut Chilli Sauce

• 165ml can coconut milk • 1 tablespoon brown sugar • 1 tablespoon sweet chilli sauce • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 1 teaspoon fish sauce • 800g / 11/2 lbs beef rump steak, trimmed, cut into 2cm cubes

• 1 tablespoon roughly chopped roasted unsalted peanuts • 1 tablespoon shredded coconut, toasted • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh coriander leaves • 1 bird’s eye chilli, deseeded, finely chopped (optional) • 2 tablespoons sweet chilli sauce

dutch Apple Pie YOu WILL NEEd • 200g plain flour • 150g self raising flour • 175g unsalted butter, diced • 150g caster sugar plus 1tbsp for sprinkling • 2 medium eggs, beaten

• 400g dessert apples, peeled, cored and sliced • 75g raisins • 75g light soft brown sugar • 1tbsp corn flour • 1tsp ground cinnamon • 2tbsp milk • Whipped cream, to serve

GET STARTEd 1 To make the pastry, sift the plain and self-raising flours into a large bowl and add the diced butter.

Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour to make fine breadcrumbs. Stir in the sugar and beaten eggs and mix to a soft dough. Knead very lightly until smooth then wrap in cling film and chill in the fridge for 1 hour.

2 Preheat the oven to 190°C/170°C fan/gas 5. Place a baking sheet in the oven to pre-heat.

GET STARTEd 1 Combine coconut milk, sugar, sweet chilli sauce, cinnamon, cardamom, garlic and fish sauce in a non-metallic bowl. Add beef. Toss to make sure the beef is coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, longer if time permits.

2 To make the coconut chilli sauce combine the peanuts, coconut, coriander, chilli, sweet chilli sauce and 3 teaspoons cold water in a bowl.

3 Heat a greased barbecue plate or griddle on medium-high heat. Thread beef onto skewers. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes each side or until browned and cooked through. Drizzle with coconut chilli sauce.

4 Serve with steamed rice, salad and lime wedges.

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The buttery pastry for this deep dish pie is Serv made with a mix of selfes Read 8 raising and plain flours which gives in 2h y rs it a soft and cake-like texture.

Choose crisp sweet dessert apples such as Cox’s Orange Pippins or discovery

3 Roll out two-thirds of the pastry on a lightly floured surface and use to line the base of a 23cm round loose-based fluted flan tin.

4 Toss the apple slices in a bowl with the raisins, brown sugar, cornflour and cinnamon then layer in the pastry case, pressing down gently. Roll out the remaining pastry and cut into strips. Arrange in a lattice pattern over the apples. Dab the edges of the strips with a little water and press firmly to seal.

5 Brush the top of the pie with milk and sprinkle over caster sugar. Place the flan case on the preheated baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes until the pastry is crisp and golden. Serve warm or cold with whipped cream.

TIP Replace the apples with sliced pears or a mixture of summer berries such as blackberries, raspberries and blueberries.

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ashby health centre

MONTHLY uPdATE Samples Please note that our receptionists can no longer accept samples unless they are clearly labelled with the patient’s name and date of birth before they are handed over to us. If samples are left for us on the counter, without the correct identification, we have to dispose of them as we have no means of identifying them for the lab. This will also apply if the information isn’t legible.

New doctor We are pleased to announce that dr Hall will be joining us permanently from August. She will work Tuesday and Wednesday and is a welcome addition to the team.

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Requesting medicines which you haven’t had for a while If you request medicines which you haven’t had for 6 months or more, the request will have to be approved by the doctor and he or she may want to speak to you before prescribing the item again. If it is more than 12 months since you had the medicine, the doctor will definitely have to speak to you. This can usually be done over the phone with one of our call backs but sometimes you may need to come in. The doctors have a duty of care when prescribing to ensure that the medicine is still the right one for you and this is the way they do this. Please bear this in mind and leave sufficient time for this check when re-ordering. Thank you for your co-operation with this.

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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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prize competition WIN £25 IN OUR PRIZE COMPETITION

We’ve hidden a copy of our logo within one of the advertisements in the magazine – just tell us the name of the company whose advert it is hidden in and you could be in with a chance of winning £25. Send your answer to us at: Competition, Ashby Life, Castle House, South Street, Ashby de la Zouch, LE65 1BR.

Name Address Postcode Email address The logo is hidden in the advert for on page If you don’t want to cut out the entry form you can send the answer on a postcard or enter by email to: competition@ashbylife.co.uk.

CONGRATULATIONS to the winner of our June competition, Emma Chassaigne, who correctly found the hidden logo in the advert for A G Dezign on page 79.

Entries close on Friday 15th August. The winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries. The winner will be notified and a cheque for £25 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. We may use your details to send you marketing emails from Ashby Life in the future – if you would prefer that we did not, please tick this box.

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a walk in the forest

Snarestone and the Ashby Canal This is a lovely summer walk taking in part of the lower section of the Ashby Canal and the village of Snarestone. This section of the canal is navigable from the national network and you may spot a narrow boat cruising past on its way to the current terminus of the canal a short distance further on. The second half of the walk partly follows the route of the Ivanhoe Way and signposting is good though the grass alongside the path can grow tall at this time at year. The walk takes about an hour.

If you fancy stopping for refreshments you will pass by The Globe public house en route.

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Leave Ashby via Tamworth Rd continuing under the A42 and taking the second turning left into Gallows Lane. At the junction turn left then right to follow the B4116 towards Snarestone. Continue on the B4116 for about 2 miles passing the turning to Snarestone. Soon after this you will get a glimpse of a bridge over the canal alongside the road on your left, about a quarter of a mile after this there is a lane to the left – turn down this narrow, unmarked lane and follow it to its end where it leads to a car parking area at Gopsall Wharf alongside the canal. For sat nav users I believe that the nearest post code is DE12 7DE but as there are no buildings along the lane itself please use the postcode in conjunction with the instructions above.

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Leaving the car park, turn right to go over the canal bridge and then turn immediately left down onto the towpath (1) . After a little way you will come to the next bridge (no 59), staying on the towpath go underneath this bridge (2) and continue along until you see the opening of the Snarestone tunnel ahead of you (3). Just before the canal enters the tunnel the towpath bears right and goes up to emerge in the car park of The Globe public house (4).

Walk straight ahead through the car park to reach the road running through Snarestone village.

Turn right and walk along the pavement beside the road through Snarestone. You will pass the school on your left and then a telephone box (5) and war memorial (6) on your right. Just after the war memorial you will see a track on your right - turn down this and then almost immediately bear left off the track to go across a field following the sign for the Ivanhoe Way. Cross two wooden stiles (7), close together, and go over another field to reach a third wooden stile. Crossing the third stile the path follows a hedgerow on your right (8) before bearing left and then right around the field edge and finally emerging onto a farm track. Turn right along the farm track (9), leaving the Ivanhoe way at this point.

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Keep following this track (it can be muddy in places after wet weather). You will cross a bridge over the path of a disused railway before returning to the canal bridge at Gopsall Wharf. Cross over the canal and the car park is on your left.

All walks are checked shortly before publication but please be aware that paths may change over time and with the seasons.

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venture theatre news While the set builder is responsible for planning and building the set, it still has to be ‘dressed’, much as you would furnish and decorate a room when you move into a new house....

The Set dresser HILARY Howden has been helping with props at the Venture Theatre for quite some time but four years ago she took on the job of dressing a whole set for the first time.

This was the production of Rebecca. Hilary told us “I came up with the idea for the curved staircase and it was marvellous the way Mike (Mike Cox, set builder) translated what was in my mind to the stage. I also did things that perhaps weren’t normally done in this theatre such as writing on the wall. It seemed

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to turn out alright,” she added modestly and it certainly did. The set for Rebecca got its own round of applause when the curtain went up!

“I don’t have anything to do with layout of the set,” she says. “And I don’t do painting but I like to design.”

Once the set is on the stage, Hilary can get to work on furnishings, curtains, flower arrangements and lots of pots! She makes some of the curtains and has

made costumes as well. If it’s a period play, some research may be necessary. “I do sketch it out and I do look in a lot of books to make sure I’ve got the period right,” she said. “But I can’t do everything. So if anyone wants to help out they’re more than welcome.”

If you think this could be your cup of tea, visit the theatre on a Monday night after 8.30pm and see if you would like to become a member. Or visit our website at ashbyventuretheatre.org.uk.

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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

Show Gardens I hope that if you did not make it to one of the RHS Flower Shows you did at least catch the television coverage of Chelsea, NEC Gardeners World, Hampton Court or Tatton. It is an enjoyable day out at any of these shows for the show gardens themselves and for plant shopping. In addition there is often musical entertainment, strawberries and Pimms: A very satisfying British tradition.

If, however I have a client who is in the process of having a garden built and they tell me they are off to see the show gardens my heart sinks a bit as I have to tell them that the show gardens are not real and that in a week a perfectly mature and full garden is not what they will have when their garden is finished. The truth is that in a show garden the judges don’t want to see any soil. The plants are put in at pot to pot thickness – no growing room. This compares with a properly planted new garden where there is more soil than plant! In a year the real garden is looking good and in two years fantastic whilst a show garden would have only a few things surviving by that time.

Sometimes instant planting is appropriate and can be worth the

financial outlay. Often mature trees or a fairly instant hedge for some structure or screening works well. It goes without saying these big items are expensive, but rewarding so long as you water and feed your investment!

Anyway, back to the glitz and the prestige of exhibiting a show garden. It is all about medals: The order is Gold, Silver gilt, Silver, and Bronze and the top prize is ‘Best in Show’. The gardens can take months, even years, in planning for the design and often for sponsorship too, so to not achieve a medal would be deflating to say the least.

Exhibiting is a stressful experience, lots can go wrong, such as the weather not doing what it ought to have done, and plants being over or not ready. Either scenario usually leads to a second expensive trip to the nursery. A build has to continue in pouring rain ready for judging and it is not unusual to see people on site at 5am after finishing at midnight the previous day. Fallouts and clashes occur but so do friendships and the RHS show teams are great - very helpful and encouraging.

TO MAKE A SHOW STOPPER OF YOuR GARdEN, HERE ARE THE jOBS FOR AuGuST: 1 2 3 4 5 6

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Prune summer flowering shrubs, Hebe’s and Lavender can be pruned lightly, but don’t cut into old wood Prune Wisteria Deadhead flowering perennials and annuals that will repeat flower.

Prune climbing and rambling roses Feed plants in containers and limp looking perennials Cut back stems of herbaceous plants

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The shows are good for ideas though, and finding new materials and plants – and there is lots of garden related shopping (yes!): plants of course, pots, furniture, sculpture, garden tools.

For next summer, remember tickets for Chelsea in particular sell out fast, so book early through www.rhs.org.uk Happy gardening.

Francesca Email info@francescasinclair.co.uk Photograph courtesy of Gillian Day

Take cuttings from shrubs to propagate Trim hedges Apply weed killer to perennial weeds Cut out old raspberry canes Plant Hyacinth bulbs (ready for Christmas) Patios- clean and get rid of algae to look good and prevent slipperiness in winter Apply paint preservatives to wood structures like sheds In ponds, remove duckweed and blanket weed and cut back marginal plants if necessary

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wordsearch

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community board Trinity Hall Badminton Club

Strawberry Fields Festival

Trinity Hall Badminton Club in Ashby will soon be celebrating their 38 year anniversary and need more members. They are a small, friendly, non-league club catering for a wide range of abilities. They meet from 7.30pm to 9pm on Mondays at the Holy Church Trinity Hall, off Kilwardby Street, with the new season starting on 8th September and finishing in June 2015. Join them on the 8th of September or contact the Secretary for more information on 01530 411 349.

Give Blood Would you like to become a blood donor?

Regular sessions are held at Hood Park Leisure Centre in Ashby. The next session is on Sunday 14th September from 9.45am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 4pm.

You’ll find more information online at www.blood.co.uk.

Canine Partners Bake a Cake Appeal Local charity, Canine Partners, are currently running a Bake A Cake appeal to help raise funds for their work.

The charity trains and provides assistance dogs to help those with a disability or illness live independent lives and their midlands training centre is based at Fields Farm, Osgathorpe. If you’d like to help then simply bake a cake, take it into work or school or along to a meeting with friends and sell each slice for £1.

You don’t even need to collect the money - those buying a slice of cake can make their £1 donation by texting CAKE09 to 70700.

Find out more at www.caninepartners.org.uk/cakebake.

Age uK Big Knit The Big Knit raises funds to help keep local older people warm and healthy over winter.

Hats will sit on Innocent Smoothie bottles and for each hatwearing bottle sold Innocent will donate 25p to the charity. Knitters can get the simple knitting patterns and details online at www.ageuk.org.uk/leics, by calling 0116 223 7344 or from local Age Concern shops. Knitted hats should be sent to Age UK Leicestershire & Rutland (Ref: BDM), Lansdowne House, 113 Princess Road East, Leicester, LE1 7LA by the end of October.

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Tickets are on sale now for the Strawberry Fields Festival on 8th to 10th August at Cattows Farm, Heather.

For more information please go to www.strawberryfieldsfestival.co.uk.

Leicestershire Citizens Advice The North West Leicestershire branch of Leicestershire Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) has moved to new premises at the Council offices in Coalville. Outreach services will continue to run in Ashby and Castle Donington and people in emergency situations can access help at the CAB branches across the county.

Alternative branches can be found on their website, www.leicscab.org.uk.

National Garden Scheme Open Gardens On Sunday 10th August, three Ashby gardens are opening as part of the National Garden Scheme. They will be open from 11am to 5pm, with combined admission of £3 adult, accompanied children free. The gardens are at 7 and 27 Avenue Road and 72 Tamworth Road (all within walking distance of each other). Refreshments and plants for sale on the day. See website for more details, www.ngs.org.uk.

The Confidence Club (Ashby) This new and unique initiative combines knowledge and self-belief. Launching at the beginning of September, it is a members-only club, bringing hypnosis for confidence as well as regular workshops on topics that can help increase confidence, including image styling, voice coaching, nutrition advice, and many more.

Suitable for anyone, including business owners, mums returning to work (or not), those in need of a confidence boost at work, and everyone else who finds it stressful coping with challenges of everyday life. There will be discounted services, with discount levels depending on the type of membership. For more information email annafinn@leics-hypnotherapy.co.uk.

Ashby de la Zouch Town Council Calendar of Meetings The Planning Committee meet on 1st September and there is a Town Council meeting on 8th September.

Members of the public are welcome to attend and there is a slot for public questions. Meetings take place at Legion House, South Street and start at 6.30pm.

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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 and we will be happy to help you.

To aid flexibility and ease joints, try Therapeutic Yoga every Wednesday 7pm to 9pm, and the first Friday of every month 7pm to 9pm. Contact qualified instructor Liz Underwood for more details on 07812 007202 or email liz@puremovementyoga.co.uk.

OuR REGuLAR EVENTS:

Join us on the second Friday of every month 7pm to 9pm for a Neals Yard Remedies information and product session. Contact Isabel Houghton for details 07790 59227 or email Isabel.houghton@yahoo.com.

‘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 Story and Rhymetime, 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.

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

‘Tiny Talk’ baby signing classes take place every Thursday 9.30am to 10.30am and another session 11am to noon. They are £5 per session. Pre-booking essential.

The unusual and popular ‘ukulele Playing Group’ meets every Wednesday 10am to 11.30am. £5 per session.

Come and practice Hatha Yoga every Tuesday, 7pm to 9pm. Contact British Wheel of Yoga qualified instructor Lorna Kirk for more details on 01530 416135.

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ALSO, juST FOR THIS MONTH: Book Sale until 16th August A sale of ex-library stock. Come to the library and bag a bargain book!

Meet Mythical Animals with Lion Learners 21st August, 2pm-3pm, £3 per child.

Bring the mythical animal characters from a storytime to life with the chance to meet and stroke real live animals. This event is part of the Mythical Maze Summer Reading Challenge.

For more information or to book please contact Ashby Library on 0116 3055917. Please book early as spaces are limited.

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storytime

By Jackie Brewster

Three’s a Crowd Gordon and Merle set off just after dawn. For two hours they navigated unfamiliar roads on their way to the airport, and the atmosphere became increasingly tense.

Gordon refused to stop and ask for directions, and Merle lost confidence in her map reading after mistaking the motorway for a river.

They’d passed the same garage twice when Merle cried out,

the screen.

“She says, ‘arriving in five minutes’. There’s a left turn for the airport. Thank goodness”.

“Take the next right”, the sat nav ordered curtly.

“Perhaps she knows a short cut?” Merle suggested nervously. Gordon frowned, and indicated right.

“That sign said Lockington”, Gordon said. “Isn’t that where Connie’s moved to?”

“Take the first left at the roundabout”. The sat nav continued.

With a feeling of dread Gordon did as he was told. They passed a pub called The Brittle Sticks.

“I’ve just remembered something!”

“We did lock the front door”, Gordon said.

“Not that”. She opened the glove compartment and took out a black box.

“Mother lent me her sat nav. She said it would come in handy”.

Merle peered at the screen, “it says the destination is already set. How considerate of her”. Gordon was suspicious; he’d never describe his mother-in-law as considerate.

With authority, a lady’s voice said, “turn around”.

“Better do as she says”. Merle laughed.

The holiday had been a last minute thing. Merle’s cousin had kindly offered them use of her two bedroom villa in Spain. They’d found some cheap flights, although it meant a long drive to the airport. Gordon had grumbled about the cost of airport parking, but Gordon grumbled about the cost of everything.

“Yoo hoo!” Connie waved opening the front door, “you’ve taken your time. Room for a little one?” She opened the car door and climbed inside.

For the next hour the sat nav lady took control of the situation. She had a condescending tone that reminded Gordon of Connie. It was uncomfortably like having her in the car with them, and his nerves were becoming increasingly frayed.

“Don’t panic dear!” Connie laughed, “I’m only coming as far as the airport with you, then bringing your car back. I know how much Gordon hates paying for parking. Your car can have a free holiday on my drive.”

“Looks like we’ve hit rush hour”. Merle worried, “I’d hoped we’d be there by now”.

Gordon sniped, “What does the sat nav say?” Merle checked

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“That’s odd”, Merle said. “I’m sure Mother said her new local was called that”.

They needed a break. For the last few weeks Merle’s mother, Connie, had been staying with them while the sale of her house went through. Gordon tolerated his motherin-law in small doses. What she’d promised to be a weekend stay had turned into four excruciatingly long weeks. Connie even had the nerve to hint that their villa was big enough for all three of them, especially as her new home was so close to the airport. Thankfully Gordon prided himself on being the sort of man who didn’t take hints.

“Take the next left”, the sat nav ordered. Gordon grudgingly obeyed.

“You have arrived at your destination”, the sat nav declared.

They pulled up outside a bungalow with a ‘Sold’ sign on the drive. It was not the airport.

“What a nice surprise”. Gordon said through gritted teeth.

“You’re very considerate”, Gordon said.

“I am aren’t I?” Connie snapped on her seatbelt. “Now, would you like me to give you directions?”

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all about you

She’s Leaving Home...

MANY of us will drop our child off at university for the first time this year. Or maybe they’re moving to another part of the country... or world. Along with the justifiable pride and excitement we feel at their achievement a few negative emotions will undoubtedly creep in: Sadness, loss, fear and anxiety.

We’ll wonder how our baby grew up so quickly and worry about how they will cope with being away from home, and how we will cope with their absence.

When a child leaves home we may have more than half of our life left to live. It’s a perfect time to take stock and create a wish list of things to do or try. Focussing attention on these will help manage the transition to a new

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Movin’ on...

lifestyle more easily and highlight the opportunities it brings.

It can be good to put more energy into nurturing a relationship. Find new activities to share together; take time to sit and talk, or to do the things you used to love to do before children came along. Find a hobby or sport to fill the extra time. Perhaps something you’ve longed to do but felt family commitments pre-vented, be that yoga, fishing or painting.

You could even follow your child’s lead and study something new.

This could be taking language or woodwork lessons at the local college, or enrolling on an Open University course, taking a professional qualification or under-

taking a degree yourself.

If you’ve let your career stall whilst bringing up the children now may be the chance to re-ignite it. Or you could use your increased time and energies to start a new business, or volunteer.

When we look for the positive in a situation it opens up a whole new range of opportunities which will help us shine as individuals, build our confidence and increase our sense of well-being - exactly the same things in fact that we wish for our children embarking on their new life at university.

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book reviews

Bountiful Books The Summer is in full-swing and there’s an abundance of luscious fruits to get our lips smacking.

We’ve handpicked some choice novels that are ripe with ideas, visions, fantastic stories and characters we will never forget.

It’s a bumper crop, so kick back in the sunshine and tuck in.

Watermelon...

Marian Keyes How does it feel to have your husband walk out on you, the day your first child is born?

Claire is quite literally left holding the baby, when her husband decides to up and leave her for the woman who lives in the flat downstairs. Oh, the humiliation. So Claire packs her bags and heads back to the bosom of her own family in Dublin to lick her wounds and plan her future. What happens when the philandering husband then tries to worm his way back into Claire’s affections? Stronger and much more resolute, the ‘new’ Claire must decide whether or not she’s going to forgive or forget.

The Lemon Table. . . julian Barnes All the characters in Barnes’ The Lemon Table are facing the end of their lives, and all with a different perspective and reactions to reaching the ‘end of the road’. One man measures his life in the number of haircuts he has given, whilst a retired army major prepares for his trip to his regimental dinner, and his regular date with ‘working girl’ Babs. Elsewhere, a woman in a nursing home develops a new correspondence with an author that brings vitality to an ageing mind and body. None of them will go quietly into the night, and each finds a way to face up to their mortality with passion and vigour. It’s a lesson for us all, told in the most poignant of ways.

Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe ...

Fanny Flagg

With good food and friends you can’t go far wrong. Idgie and Ruth open their cafe, and their arms to the local townspeople, creating a home from home for many of their customers. It’s a book that’s jam-packed with laughter, tall tales and even the occasional murder, all served up with a side of grits. Reading Fried Green Tomatoes is like tucking into some hearty southern fodder; ‘soul food’ as they say in Alabama, and good for the soul is exactly what this delicious and mouth-watering offering is.

Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit... jeanette Winterson Sixteen year old Jeanette looks all set to lead the life of a devout missionary, carrying out God’s work and committing her life to the church, having been adopted as a child by a family of evangelists. That is until she finds a greater object of passion and a reason to commit to a mere mortal; a young female convert of hers. Suddenly the path that seemed set out for her is vanishing before her eyes and she is forced to leave behind the church, her family and her home in the industrial north of England.

This is a powerful and challenging story, taking one girl a long way from where she started, in the pursuit of happiness and a clear idea of ‘self’.

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in your home

Choosing and using paint A quick lick of paint on the walls and woodwork will brighten and beautify any home, inside and out. Our interiors expert Katherine Sorrell is on hand to help you choose the best type of paint.

Indoor walls and ceilings Easy to apply and available in thousands of different colours, emulsion is ideal for walls and ceilings. Emulsion is always water-based, which means it is quick-drying, low-odour and cleans off the brush easily.

Outdoors Masonry paints are designed for outdoor wall surfaces made from brick, stone, concrete, pebbledash and render. They come in smooth or textured finishes. For older properties, limewash is a traditional finish that has a powdery matt surface and a lovely depth of colour. Use it for Choose from a flat matt, standard matt or silk (softly shiny) interior and exterior limestone, lime render and finish. Generally, the higher the sheen level, the easier the plaster, and even wattle and daub. For surface will be to keep clean, but the more any imperfections woodwork, use an exterior-grade primer, will show up. undercoat and gloss, just like indoors. For Water-based eggshell has a low shine and provides a more fences, sheds and garden furniture, choose durable, wipeable surface – useful for walls in hard-working from a range of specialist treatments, clear areas such as hallways or playrooms. For kitchens and or coloured, which are designed to prolong bathrooms, consider specialist paints that are scrubbable and the life of the timber. Restore old railings resistant to both moisture and steam. and other metalwork with Indoor woodwork and metal exterior-quality metal paint Unless you have such as Hammerite. chosen an all-in-one, Floors Depending on specially your type of floor – formulated timber boards, conpaint, first use crete or vinyl, for an appropriate example – there are a primer to seal bare variety of extra- durable surfaces then floor paints that will apply a couple of suit. You can also layers of undercoat find paints designed on top of the primer specifically for front doorsteps to give ‘body’ to the and garage floors. surface.

Remember that undercoat Specialist paints There is a comes in a dark or light colour, specialist paint for virtually depending on the shade of top coat to every need, whether you want be used. For your final coat, gloss is available to repaint your kitchen cupin a variety of finishes, from low sheen to high board doors, paint timber, gloss. It is always better to apply two thin coats of gloss than one thick one, concrete or vinyl flooring, or the exception being when using non-drip gloss (sometimes called one-coat revamp the tiles in your gloss), which is best used for pale interior woodwork. For central heating pipes shower. Look out for fireand radiators, buy a heat-resistant paint which will withstand high temperatures retardant and anti-burglar without discolouring. paint, blackboard paint, damp-inhibiting paint, Solvent-based paints are gradually being phased out, so these days the majority suede-effect and even of wood and metal paints are water-based and brushes can be cleaned with hot magnetic paint. water and detergent.

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puzzle page deprive of food (6) Scribble (6) Complicated (7) Meal of raw vegetables (5) Additional (5) Exactly alike (7) Meeting (11) down-payment (7) End of day (5) Type of oil (5) Result (7) Process (6) Holds firmly (6)

down

1 2 3 5 6 7 8 14 15 16 17 19 21

Private (6) Allow to enter (5) Krakatoa (7) Beginning (5) Sea mammal (7) Not youngest (6) Test (11) Young dogs (7) Hideous beast (7) Fools (6) Speaks (6) Kind of turnip (5) Increases in size (5)

QuICK CROSSWORd

SUDOKU 70

Solutions on page 108

Across

1 4 9 10 11 12 13 18 20 22 23 24 25

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 In the words of that old favourite – ‘If you go down to the woods today you’re sure of a big surprise...’

What could it be? Well of course it might be a teddy bears picnic but if you go down to Spring Wood near Melbourne and visit Greenwood Days then it could be anything from shelter building to pizza making, basket weaving to fire lighting or perhaps chair making!

greenwood days

Set in the heart of The National Forest, Greenwood days have been running courses based on traditional crafts and outdoor experiences for over 15 years.

Owner, Peter Wood, is an expert Pole Lathe turner and those who have visited The National Forest Wood Fair at Beacon Hill are sure to have seen him in action at the ‘Bodger’s Corner’ and winning the famous Log-to-Leg Race.

Greenwood days offerccc a variety of courses, family days, experiences and cc children’s and adult’s parties.

The children’s birthday parties launched last year are a real hit, where favourite act-ivities include shelter building, fire-lighting, willow weaving and pizza making. They have their own wood-fired pizza oven that’ll cook the pizza you’ve created in 2 minutes or alternatively you can cook your own sausages over the open fire, toast marshmallows on sticks or cook a frying pan full of popcorn.

There is lots of wonderful outdoor space for the youngsters to explore and enjoy while they learn new skills and no mess for you to tidy up afterwards!

Older children (age 10 and upwards) can learn to use the traditional Pole Lathe and

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during the course of a party will make a 3-legged stool each to take home, a really great achievement. The centre is fully equipped with large shelters in case of rain, ample parking and proper toilets!

Adult parties are available for groups, stag or hen parties or those wishing to find a memorable way to celebrate that special birthday. The group could all work together on one item such as a green oak bench (which makes a fantastic lasting wedding present), or make individual pieces like willow platters perhaps for use at the wedding reception.

A yurt is available for overnight stays with a BBQ, cooking in the pizza oven or over the open fire all adding to the occasion.

If you fancy the challenge of learning a new skill or want an alternative holiday you can choose from a variety of courses lasting from a few hours to all week. All are taught by experts in their field. Willow weaving courses offer you the chance to make your own basket, lantern or garden sculpture.

If you’d like to learn the art of Pole Lathe turning you can either do a 2-day stool making course or opt for the week long Windsor chair-making course.

Other skills to learn include Rustic furniture, Longbow making or Dulcimer (a musical instrument) making.

For more information on the wide range of crafts and experiences that Greenwood days can offer call Peter Wood on 01332 864529, visit the website www.greenwood-days.co. uk or pop along to The National Forest Wood Fair at Beacon Hill on August Bank Holiday Monday and see Peter in action on the Pole Lathe.

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young ashby

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out and about

Walking Back to Happiness HEALTH experts recommend that we get 30 minutes of moderate physical activity five times a week. To achieve this, look no further than something you’ve been doing since you were a toddler - walking!

around the country. The British Walking Federation offers individual membership at £8 per year, which entitles members to a calendar of events, newsletters and discounts on entry fees to permanent BWF trails.

Walking has been described as ‘the nearest activity to perfect exercise’ and offers a host of health benefits, including a reduction in the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, colon and breast cancer, Alzheimer’s and stroke.

If you like walking but fancy something a little different, why not give Nordic Walking a try? Originally designed to help cross-country skiers train during the summer months, this method of walking is suitable for all ages, experience and fitness levels, and involves the use of specially designed poles to give you a full body work out that tones the arms, legs, stomach, chest and back, in addition to the legs. Using the poles puts less pressure on the joints as the work is shared between different parts of the body. The only equipment needed to start Nordic Walking is a good pair of shoes and comfortable clothing. Poles are provided within the class fee price of £5-£6 for around an hour. For more information visit www.britishnordicwalking.org.uk or www.nordicwalking.co.uk.

In addition, walking conditions all the muscles of the lower body, particularly those in the bottom and thighs, and psychologists also claim that regularly spending time outdoors can help stave off anxiety and depression.

Walking can, quite literally, be done anywhere but if tramping the streets or countryside alone is not your idea of fun, why not join a walking group near you?

They are a great way to make new friends and meet like-minded people in a sociable and safe environment.

The Ramblers is Britain’s walking charity, with around 500 groups throughout the British Isles. Most groups are organised geographically, but there are some that specialise in shorter, easier, or family-friendly walks, and others that cater for specific age groups - for example people in their 20s, 30s or 40s. Walks are run weekly and are generally led by a trained leader. The cost of annual membership is £32 or £3 per month.

The British Walking Federation organises walking events for people of all ages and abilities, to encourage personal fitness through regular non-competitive exercise. To participate, simply turn up and register on the day. A list of events can be found on their website www.bwf-ivv.org.uk along with a list of walking groups

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We have some fantastic places available for walking in and around the local area. If you enjoy our regular walks in the magazine you can log onto www. ashbyonline.co.uk where you will always find a selection of previous walks. The choice changes each month so you can find new places to explore. If you fancy a bit of a challenge you could explore the Ivanhoe Way, a 36 mile circular walk passing through the centre of Ashby, or take a look at the newly launched National Forest Way. With a 75 mile route around the National Forest this circular walk really encourages you to explore the whole area. Take a look online at www. nationalforestway.co.uk and you’ll find the route split into stages, giving plenty of suggestions for walks of varying lengths.

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www.ashbychurch.co.uk

Holiday preparation?

S

ummer is here, the World Cup and Wimbledon both distant memories, children have broken up from school and many of us will now be thinking of a summer holiday in some form or other.

A break from the routine of our daily lives does us all good, giving us a chance to relax and escape from the stresses and strains of everyday life.

Maybe you are going away for a holiday this year. If so, perhaps you’ve been planning it for some time looking at brochures, organising transport, booking accommodation and making sure everything is ready in advance. Time and effort has to be put in to make these preparations, and knowing that there is something to look forward to often makes it easier.

Unfortunately though, like all good things, holidays don’t last forever! All that time spent planning and

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Editorial by Ashby Christadelphian Church, Union Passage, Ashby

www.ashbychurch.co.uk

preparing for our holiday, the excitement as it gets closer, the fun and enjoyment of being away – before we know it, it’s all over and we’re back to our old routine again dreaming of our next holiday!

God has promised us something even better than a holiday to look forward to. When He sends His son, Jesus, back to this earth, those who have been preparing for his return will be able to enjoy a complete break from the daily routines and problems of this world; not just for a week or two, but forever and ever! We just need to read the bible and discover what preparations are needed and make sure we are ready in time. So, whilst you enjoy the benefits of having prepared for your summer holiday, or start planning your next holiday, perhaps we also need to be thinking about preparing for something even better that will never come to an end? Pick up God’s brochure today!

Useful passage to look up: Matthew ch 25 v 1-13.

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back chat

Gardening

by Sarah Kavanagh, Ashby Osteopathic Clinic

www.ashbyosteopath.com

IN this month’s article Sarah Kavanagh from Ashby Osteopathic Clinic takes a look at how to take care of your back while working in the garden.

About this time of year Osteopaths see an increase in gardening related injuries. There is often a lot to do in the garden, and at times it is tempting to get carried away and overdo it. As a rule activity is good for us and gardening, if done correctly, is a good way of keeping yourself active and healthy. This month I thought I would give you some handy hints on how to help look after your back, and the rest of your body when gardening.

WARM uP Always warm up before you start gardening. The best way to warm up is by going for a short brisk 5 to10 minute walk to get the blood flowing and the joints loosened off. Start with lighter gardening tasks first to get your body going before rushing into heavier, bigger jobs. If you have not done gardening for a while then just do a little bit to start with and gradually build up. We often see injuries caused when individuals who haven't done any gardening for several months rush out and spend a whole day in the garden, doing tasks that their bodies are not accustomed to.

VARY YOuR TASKS We often refer to this as rotational gardening.

Don't do too much of the same thing. It is possible to do the same task using different postures and different tools or to do different tasks. Try not to get stuck in one position, aim to change your position every 20 minutes or so. This means that you will be using different muscle groups, so you won't fatigue as easily and this will reduce your risk of injury.

TAKE REGuLAR BREAKS Take a break, and come back to it again later. Don't feel tempted to do it all in one stint. Listen to your body - if something is beginning to hurt then stop.

And now for the more specific advice: dIGGING Make sure your digging posture is correct. Stand with a split stance, one foot in front of the other. Keep your back straight and your arms close to your body. Keep your weight on your back leg and using your front leg stamp the spade into the soil. Rock your body weight back and forth by bending your front knee. When lifting the earth bend your knees and hips and not your back. Move to where you want to dig, and don't reach. Don't twist. If you need to turn move your whole body. Wherever possible use a small spade rather than a large one, so you are not lifting too much at a time.

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WEEdING ANd PLANTING Firstly don't twist or overreach. Stay close to the area you are working, and keep moving along as you go. Keep your tools and implements close by.

You can use a variety of postures: Kneeling pads – use a proper kneeling pad with side handles to enable you to get up using your leg muscles Sitting on an up turned bucket – keep your feet flat on the ground and your knees wide apart. use a long-handled lightweight hoe – when standing use a split stance, straight back, and bend from the knees and hips.

All fours - have your hands and knees directly below your shoulders and hips. Reach by pushing your body forward from your pelvis and pull by shifting your body weight back (bringing your bottom towards your heels).

Single knee kneel – your front foot and back knee should be on the ground at right angles. Use a kneeling pad if you have one.

MOWING Ensure you have a suitable machine for your garden, preferably with an electric start and motorised wheels. Keep your back upright and use your body to drive the movement, not just your arms. Use forward and backward movements and avoid swinging from side to side.

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.

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plant of the month

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money matters In the article in May’s Ashby Life we touched on the potential change suggested within the budget.

Because things are moving rapidly forward we here look at some of the points raised.

RETIREMENT – Freedom of Choice or More Complication?

by Kevin Cunningham of Bleathwood IFA Ltd

IN the March budget, Chancellor George Osborne announced plans to launch an impartial face-to-face guidance guarantee to every member of a defined contribution pension scheme at retirement.

Originally it was proposed this would be ‘advice’, but it is now suggested that the funding made available for this idea will not stretch far enough to cover the cost of advice. Experts linked to the government like Ros Altmann have suggested the proposed oneoff half an hour discussion or guidance would not be enough, why? Well it never has when I have met anyone over the last 29 years.

It’s quite logical, this is a life changing decision, something which will affect someone’s life for maybe 20 years or so and also their partners, even the family. I have met some people who say it does not affect me, I have a company pension. Sometimes this is true, but I have found many times they still have to make decisions about how much cash they want to take from the scheme, in some cases they have made Additional Voluntary Contributions and were not aware

they could shop around with the fund to source an income.

We think the proposed new Freedom and Choices at Retirement is great, it offers those retiring the chance to use their retirement savings as they consider fit for purpose, but with choices you need to consider the implications. Retirement is often linked to having more time, more holidays, could you even plan one holiday in 30 minutes? A one-off discussion with the same timescales is unlikely to be sufficient to plan your whole retirement.

Statistics keep tell us we are living longer, which is great, so if you do retire at 65 today then you may need to consider you need money for at least another 18 to 20 years or even longer. If you get it wrong then it is a long time living with a wrong decision.

The consultation for the proposal made in the budget ended on the 11th of June. So we will soon hear more about how Freedom in Retirement will look post April 2015, but choices, amazingly we

had choices for years. Mr Osborne has stated you will no longer have to buy an annuity, well this solution is only one of several options you have with a pension plan and an annuity may still be either a good option or part of an overall plan.

The most important point from my last sentence is the word ‘Plan’.

Our suggestion is do not just plan for the day you retire, have a ‘retirement plan’, you have earned it, so you need to enjoy it. We have found the suggested changes have produced some discussions. It has offered those who plan for retirement and take steps to save, greater options, but also it has added further layers of complexity.

The need for advice is even more relevant, we can only suggest you take steps and seek truly independent financial advice before you make any decisions.

For more information on this matter or if you would like free initial financial advice with no obligation then you can contact Kevin at Bleathwood Financial Services on 01530 417943.

Bleathwood IFA Ltd Bleathwood House, 45 Upper Packington Road, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, LE65 1ED. www.bleathwoodifa.co.uk Bleathwood IFA Ltd (FSA No: 516218) is an appointed representative of Sense Network Limited (FSA No: 465124) which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. The FSA does not regulate tax advice.

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behind the scenes Find out a bit more about some of the people who live and work within the local area – each month we will be interviewing someone from an organisation or business in Ashby or the surrounding areas. This month...

Rich Waldrum Chairman of Marlborough Rovers Football Club. If you’d like to know more about the club, their teams and soccer school, take a look at www.marlboroughrovers.co.uk.

What inspired you to become involved with Marlborough Rovers and what do you love about it?

Like the vast majority of people I took my lad along to football training at a very young age and the rest is as they say history. Within two years I went from parent to team manager to club Chairman. Marlborough Rovers is now a big part of mine and my family’s life. The friendships we have gained along the way are the most important thing to us. I have been Chairman now for almost fifteen years, it has its ups and down but overall the ups far more than outweigh the downs. In my time as Chairman we must have had close on two thousand people play for our club, we currently have a playing membership of around three hundred. The club continues to grow and prosper and we are now recognised as one of the biggest clubs in the County with twenty-two teams and a thriving soccer school.

What is your favourite local restaurant?

My favourite local restaurant would have to be Johnny Wong’s in Bath Street. Superb food, great atmosphere and nothing is ever too much trouble for the staff.

Where do you like to go for a day or evening out?

I like nothing more than meeting my friends in either the Bowling Green or the Ivanhoe Social Club and spending the evening with them.

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What is your favourite local shop and why?

I don’t do a lot of shopping, but one shop I do go in fairly often is Pet Deli.

What do you like best about Ashby?

Ashby is in my blood. I was born at the cottage hospital way back in 1963 and have lived here all of my life. I was also very proud to be one of Ashby’s Fire-Fighters for fifteen years something that gives you an extra special bond that is unexplainable...This is my Town.

If you could change one thing about the town what would it be?

Easy this one... Parking on double yellow lines.

If you didn’t live in this area where would you live and why?

Maybe one day we will retire to the coast it’s something that has always been on my mind, but I would never be that far away.

What is the best thing that has happened to you recently?

Celebrating both mine and my wife’s’ fiftieth birthdays, we were born on the same day (I am the eldest lol! ).

Fully appreciate life and think of those not fortunate enough to live that long and never forget them.

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what’s on...

August into September 5th August Blackfordby WI – ‘A Strawberry Fayre’. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of the month at Blackfordby Village Hall, 7pm. For more info contact Gill Massey 01283 212 380.

6th August Ashby-Pithiviers Twinning Association Croquet taster evening at Moira Miners Welfare Sports Ground, Bath Lane, Moira. Meet at 6pm to start at 6.30pm. There will then be a supper of goujons of fish, chips and peas served at the nearby Halfway House, Donisthorpe. The total cost is £12 each or £5.50 for the croquet alone and £6.50 for the meal alone. Bookings must be made no later than 30th July. For more details email ptva@hotmail.co.uk or www.ashbydelazouchtwinning.co.uk.

Bradgate Flower Club - speaker Richard Adams, well known photographer from Oakham with 'A Camera in the Garden'. This presentation offers a change from our regular demonstrations and will appeal to gardeners and camera enthusiasts as well as flower arrangers and lovers of the East Midland's landscapes. The meeting starts at 7.30pm in Newtown Linford Village Hall (LE6 0AE).

Visitors are welcome, a charge of £5 is made. Details from Lilian Coleman on 0116 236 3191.

8th to 10th August Classic Motorcycle Festival – at Donington Park. Parades, racing and show of classic bikes with special guest, Kevin Schwantz.

Advance tickets available, see www.donington-park.co.uk for more details.

Strawberry Fields Festival – at Cattows Farm, Heather. For more information see www.strawberry fieldsfestival.co.uk.

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10th August NGS Open Gardens – Three Ashby gardens are opening from 11am to 5pm as part of the National Garden Scheme. Combined admission is £3 adult, accompanied children free. Gardens are at 7 and 27 Avenue Road and 72 Tamworth Road (all within walking distance of each other). Refreshments and plants will be for sale on the day. See www.ngs.org.uk for details.

12th August Ashby Writers’ Club - Comp: verse: ‘Those were the days’ (up to 30 lines). Meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, unless specified, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Congregational Church, Kilwardby St, Ashby, LE65 2FQ. Visitors are welcome at a nominal fee of £4 per speaker meeting, £3 per comp/manuscript meeting (includes coffee or tea).

13th August Ashby Wine Circle – Members social evening with fish and chip supper. Meeting 7.30pm at Brown Court, Atkinson Road, Westfields, Ashby de la Zouch. LE65 2LZ. 16th August Ashby Farmers Market – 9am to 2pm at Manor House, South Street.

Bringing you the finest foods from the region and specialist stalls. Free parking.

20th August Ashby Spa WI – ‘First Aid Essentials’ with Judy Richter. Meetings are held at Manor House School, South Street at 7.30pm. You don’t have to be a member to attend the meeting, there is a small charge of £3 for visitors. For more information email ashby.spa@googlemail.com.

Century Theatre at Snibston – ‘The Love Punch’ (12A). A divorced couple scheme to recover the

retirement money stolen from them.

Comedy set on French Riviera, starring Pierce Brosnan, Emma Thompson, Timothy Spall and Celia Imrie. Starts 7.30pm. Tickets £3.50, pay on the door. Call 01530 278 444 for more information.

24th to 25th August British Truck Championship – at Donington Park. Fast and furious fun for all the family at this celebration of 30 years of truck racing. Advance tickets available, see www.donington-park.co.uk for more details.

25th August National Forest Wood Fair – at Beacon Hill Country Park, Woodhouse Eaves (LE12 8SP).

Enjoy demonstrations, have a go sessions and a huge range of forest and wood related products. Lots of fun activities and entertainment for all ages plus the Forest Food Festival. Further information and advance tickets available at www. nationalforest.org/visit/woodfair.

26th August Ashby Writers’ Club – Manuscript evening: members’ own work.

Meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, unless specified, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Congregational Church, Kilwardby St, Ashby, LE65 2FQ. Visitors are welcome at a nominal fee of £4 per speaker meeting, £3 per comp/manuscript meeting (includes coffee or tea).

27th August Ashby u3A - Annual Cream Tea at the Congregational Church, Kilwardby Street, Ashby, 2pm. All welcome, visitors £1. Bring friends and neighbours, meet U3A members and find out more.

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what’s on...

August into September continued 30th to 31st August Ashby and Willesley Vintage Festival Step back in time for a two day vintage festival of steam, classic and historic motor vehicles, tractors and and plenty of stationery engines children’s entertain-ment. A great fun day out for the whole family.

Meet Woody the one man band, take photos of the kids with a Dalek or settle down with a nice pint of Nelson's Right Arm from the Elliswood Brewery. Daily admission price £4 Adults (16 and over), £1 Children (5 to 15), under 5s free.

Free parking.

2nd September Ashby Royal British Legion - Branch meeting 7pm at Legion House, South Street, Ashby. Visitors welcome, for more details please call 01283 220534 or email ashby.royal

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britishlegion@gmail.com.

Blackfordby WI – ‘Laura Ashley’, with speaker Mary Lander. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of the month at Blackfordby Village Hall, 7pm. For more information please call Gill Massey on 01238 212 380.

3rd September Bradgate Flower Club is hosting a Harvest Supper with a presentation on 'Corn Dollies' by Judy Marshall of Peatling Magna. As well as demonstrating her skills, Judy will also lead a 'have a go' session. The meeting starts at 7.30pm in Newtown Linford Village Hall (LE6 0AE) – please bring a contribution to the supper. Visitors are welcome, a charge of £5 is made. More details available from Lilian Coleman on 0116 236 3191.

10th September Ashby Wine Circle – Wine tasting presented by Ken Sterne. Meeting 7.30pm at Brown Court, Atkinson Rd, Westfields, Ashby. LE65 2LZ.

did you know it’s FREE to put community information 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 of the September 2014 issue is Friday 8th August.

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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PuZZLE SOLuTIONS - CROSSWORd - SudOKu - COdEWORd & MORE...

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STEP ON IT - Skins - Shins - Shine - Whine - White - Write

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business directory Accountants & Payroll 64 Ashby Payroll Bureau 83 Baldwins Haines Watts 9 & 111 JAWS Accountancy Services Ltd 81 RDG Accounting 93 Aerials & Satellite 73 AB Aerials & Satellites Architects 73 A G Dezign Arts, Crafts, Gifts, jewellery, Toys 75 Greenwood Days Indivijilly Wrapped 91 Paint a Pot Craft Studio 55 Souk de la Zouch 68 Watch & Clock Repairs 8 Builders Keith Armston Building Contractors 17 Business Services 5 Lion Court Conference Centre SMB Virtual PA Services 49 Carpenters & joiners Derek Verey 87 Garden Studio Creations 97 S S Joinery 72 The Ten Mile Timber 89 Carpets & Interiors Agadon 3 Ashby Carpets 23 Ashby Stoves 41 Botanic Blinds 55 Boundary Carpets and Floorings 87 Coalville Furniture Superstore 69 Fairweathers Carpets 106 Roger James Furnishers 49 The Bed Shop 101 Toons 96 Wendy's Courtyard Interiors 50 Cleaning, Ironing, Laundry Services Breedon Carpet Care 32 Deanclean 50 Energise Cleaning & Gardening 29 Extreme Clean 73 Karen’s Ovengleam 100 Safeclean 58 Spotless Cleaning 97 The Bee’s Knees 15 Toni's Ironing Angels 45 Clothing Alivie Children’s Wear 60 The Shoe Box 33 Country Stores/ General Stores Ivanhoe Countrystore 31 domestic Appliances Contracool 37 Contract & Domestic Services 48 Ray Pittam Engineers 60 driving Schools Bardon School of Motoring 15 RDT School of Motoring 17 Electricians A & J Bartlett Ltd 10 Bright Sparks 89 D & B Electrical 100 Estate Agents Fish 2 Let 44 John German 67 Events/Event Services Donington Park Racing 11 & 99

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Financial Services Bleathwood 95 28 Ian Goodship, IFA Florists Indigo Acres 52 Food & Groceries Ashby Farmers Market 109 40 Conibears Kitchen Smithards Bakery 88 Funeral directors A E Grice Funeral Directors 37 Furniture Repairs & Restoration Ancient & Modern 28 Garden 26 Artisan of Ashby Ltd 85 Bonington Tree Services Broadleaf Landscapes 65 Charnwood Tree Services 109 79 Eden Tree Care F G Gardens 53 Francesca Sinclair & Associates 33 GDR Landscapes 45 Green Thumb (Ashby) 39 Roughly Refined Garden Service 34 Stone Drives & Landscapes 33 The Water Gardener 21 Hair & Beauty K H Hair Ashby 104 Uruku 93 Healthcare Ashby Chiropody/Podiatry Clinic 32 Ashby Dental 45 Ashby Osteopathic Clinic 87 Candor Care Ltd 27 Caring Hands 13 Dr Jin 107 Future Minds 84 Juliet Brooke Chiropody 85 Leicestershire Hypnotherapy Practice 18 Prestige Nursing 48 ProPhysio Ashby 19 Traditional Acupuncture 25 Vision Express 63 IT Services Ashby Web Design 64 The PC Clinic 8 Kitchens & Bathrooms Ashby Tile & Bathrooms 2 Holmetree Kitchens 60 Provencale Kitchens 40 Tiles 4 Less 103 Victory Kitchens 45 Locksmiths Hazlewood Locksmiths 37 The Lockie 84 Motor Services A D Car Cosmetics 15 Castle Garage (Ashby) Ltd 80 Chips Away 20 Mobile Automotive 28 Music, dance & drama Ashby Academy of Rock 61 Ashby School of Music 29 & 100 Concordia 98 Joseph Southgate 28 Lucy Heafield School of Dance 53

Painters & decorators 97 Ace Decorating Holywell Painting & Decorating 17 91 John Clark Pet Services Ash Farm Boarding Kennels 68 49 PetStay Woodward Veterinary Practice 42 Places of Worship 13 Ashby Baptist Church Ashby Churches 81 Ashby Christadelphian Church 82 Plasterers 8 A C Ellison Plastering and Tiling Matt Charles Plastering Services 21 R & H Plastering 98 58 TCL Plastering & Property Maint.

Plumbers & Gas Services Adrian Dunstan Plumbing & Heating 18 Batemans Plumbing & Heating 36 CCA Gas Plumbing 91 D B Plumbing 32 Ignite Gas Services 81 James Pepper Property Solutions 55 S D Hill (Plumbers) 7 Therm Heating 29 Property Repairs & Maintenance Ashby Glass 77 Ashbyhandyman.co.uk 85 Can’t Get One 108 Chimney Sweep & Handy Andy 75 Cloudy 2 Clear 24 D H Phillips (Flat Roofing) 32 Handyman Maintenance 71 James Beckett 89 James Pepper Property Solutions 90 Michael Brooks Home Improvements 59 Roof Tech 21 RSJ Roofing 107 TS Roofing 53 Window Mate 8 Pubs, Restaurants & Take Aways La Spezia Pizzeria 48 La Zouch Restaurant 75 Poppys Coffee Shop 105 The Blue Bell 40 The Courtyard Café 51 The Vine 47 Wong Kwei 16 Zamani's 56/57 Schools and Tuition Appleby Community Languages 59 Grace Dieu Manor School 12 Manor House School 91 Solicitors & Will Writers Crane & Walton 17 Simpson Jones Solicitors 29 Sports & Fitness Breedon Priory Health Club Ltd 112 Fitness Republic 68 Fitsteps 92 Tony Hough Personal Training 43 Travel & Holidays Macphersons Coaches 25 Villair Travel 35

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