Ashbylife emag May14 by Ashby Life

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this issue 96 Hang out the flags...

Yes Ashby Arts Festival comes to town this month and the town centre will be brightened up with colourful flags plus the amazing big boards - and this year there are more works of art scheduled to go up than ever before. The festival runs over two weeks and neatly incorporated into the middle weekend is the Food and Drink Fair. As well as Food Gusto on the Bath Grounds look out for other promotions within the town centre. Learn more about both events on page 6 and check out our special What's On for the Arts Festival, on page 14.

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

Liz Roberts

Contents

Facebook www.facebook.com/ ashbylife Twitter @AshbyLife Address Ashby Life Ltd Castle House South Street Ashby de la Zouch LE65 1BR 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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This Month All About You What’s On... Special Pets Corner Book Reviews

Christadelphian Church Money Matters Ashby Library News Puzzle Page On the Beat Back Chat

Behind the Scenes Community Board WI Poem Seasonal Recipes Prize Competition Wordsearch Young Ashby Ashby Health Centre Just 4 Fun Venture Theatre News In Your Garden Storytime Going Places What’s On A Walk in the Forest Ashby Museum News Puzzle Solutions Business Directory

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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 Liz on 01530 417739 for details Next issue is June and deadline for copy is Friday 9th May. Please note advertising space is limited, pre-booking is recommended 4

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this month THERE'S nothing quite like a good sandwich and this month we're not only being treated to the two week long Ashby Arts Festival but neatly 'sandwiched' into the middle of it is our very own Food and Drink Festival!

A Tasty Festival Sandwich! On the weekend of 24th and 25th May (the middle weekend of the Arts Festival), Food Gusto are hosting a two day celebration of local producers on the Bath Grounds. With four years’ experience of putting together events that feature hand-picked producers of artisan products the organisers are confident that you'll love the Food Gusto experience. Each exhibitor is chosen because of their passion and the quality of their products. You can expect to find everything from chutneys and cheese to meats and treats plus local wines and beers to wash it down with. There'll be plenty of entertainment for all ages, including children's rides, and of course no shortage of refreshments - tasty treats available on the day include crepes, locally made ice cream, a hog roast, dipped bananas and much more. You can quench your thirst with a variety of local brews at the beer festival, or perhaps take home an organic wine from Grace Dieu Vineyard or delicious spirits made by traditional methods and using hedgerow fruits by Sloeberry Spirits? Those who'd prefer something a little less alcoholic can go for a smooth espresso or cappuccino, or perhaps a traditional afternoon tea with cake. The fun starts at 10am on Saturday 24th May and 11am on Sunday 25th May on the Bath Grounds. Entrance during the day is just £1. On the Saturday night Gusto Music will feature up and coming bands along with the Beer Festival and hot food - advance tickets are needed for this. Priced at £3.50 they can be purchased from Ashby Tourist Information (01530 411767) or Food Gusto (01530 411337). During the second day there will also be Live Music Sunday, in association with Ashby Arts Festival, which will feature a full day of live music alongside the Food and Drink Festival.

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The Ashby Arts Festival Open Art and Photography exhibitions are open on 24th, 25th and 26th May at The Royal Hotel (perfect to combine a look with your visit to Food Gusto!) and are open from 10am to 4pm each day, with a 50p entry fee. Just over the road at Our Lady of Lourdes Church is the Cryptic Art Exhibition, this has the same opening times and days and entrance is free. Also free is the 'Passion for Painting' exhibition by John (Jaydubya) Smith which will be on show at Ashby Library from 10th May until 7th June. Look out for the family treasure hunt trail taking place in the town centre during half term week (starting on Saturday 24th May). Participating retailers will have window displays depicting a particular Myth or Legend – search them out, follow the clues, and you could win a prize! Entry forms will be available from Fair2All in Bath Street, the Tourist Information Office and some retailers. It’s shaping up to be a great bank holiday weekend have fun, explore and treat your taste buds!

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all about you

Share-A-Story Editorial by Sarah Davey

MAY is National Share-A-Story Month; an annual celebration of the power of storytelling and story sharing. Sharing stories with your child: Strengthens your relationship Reading together lets you slow down and creates some quiet time in a busy day. Enjoying a book together brings you closer. Boosts academic achievements Many scientific studies have shown that children exposed to reading

early in life are more likely to do well in all areas of education.

of language as they approach school age.

Improves basic speech skills While you're reading The Gruffalo for the gazillionth time, your child is reinforcing the basic sounds that form language.

Enhances concentration and discipline - Toddlers may initially squirm and become distracted during story time, but gradually they learn to listen. They develop self-discipline, longer attention span, and better memory retention, which are all valuable skills in school.

Helps with learning to read Children arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t born knowing that text is read from left to right, or that the words on a page are separate from the images. Essential prereading skills like these are among the major benefits of reading with your child. Improves mastery of language Toddlers who shared books with their parents and siblings, develop a better grasp of the fundamentals

Teaches kids that reading is fun! Reading with children helps them see books as an indulgence, not a chore. Children exposed to reading are more likely to choose books over video games, television, and other forms of entertainment as they grow older.

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what’s on... special YES, it’s that time of year again – this year’s Ashby Arts Festival opens on Saturday 17th May and runs through to Saturday 31st May. The theme is ‘Myths and Legends’ and big boards will be brightening up the town once more – see how many you can spot! Here is a run-down of just some of the great events that you can enjoy. For details on where to see the festival galleries and exhibitions plus more information on the food and drink festival please see page 6. Events are bookable at Ashby Tourist Information on North Street (01530 411767) except where indicated otherwise. For a full programme of events see www.ashbyartsfestival.co.uk or call in at Ashby Tourist Information. 17th May

Opening Event in Rushtons Yard with Ashby African Drummers playing at 10am in Rushtons Yard and Mike’s Open Mic running from 11am to 3pm. Other FREE entertainment in and around town includes Digital Storytelling, (a series of 3 minute films showing continuously) at St Helen’s Cottage, St Helen’s Church from 10am to 3pm, a mini craft fair at Ashby Library from 10am to 1pm and Way of the Wyrd Morris Dancers appearing in town. Viennese Music Evening with Ashby Concert Band. 7pm to 9pm at Holy Trinity Church. Ticket £10 adults or £7 children. Cassy Kindly Storytime with author, Mandy Ward at Ashby Library, 11am. Cost £1 per child, please pre-book at Ashby Library.

18th May

Red Leicester Choir at Ashby Library, from 7.30pm to 9pm. Cost £4. Adult Silk Screen Workshops at Manor House School with artist Zoe Potter. Times are 9am to noon or 1pm to 4pm. Please contact Zoe on 07754 977796 or via email to zoe@zoepotter.co.uk to book. Cost £30 including all materials.

19th May

Classical Guitar Recital at Ashby Library, 7.45pm to 9pm. Cost £3.

20th May

WW1 Severn & Somme Film at Ashby Library, 7.30pm to 8.50pm. Story of WW1 poet Ivor Gurney. Cost £5.

21st May

Blues & Country Music at Ashby Library, 7.45pm to 9pm. Cost £5.

22nd May

Dr Len’s Jazz & Blues Band toe tapping rhythm and blues at Ashby Library, 7.45pm to 9.15pm. Cost £5.

23rd May

Youth Theatre Double Bill at Ashby Venture Theatre, 7pm to 9pm.

Kegworth Players Youth Arts perform ‘Black Adder Goes Forth’, Captain Cook and Chorus Theatre perform ‘Lost Things’. Cost £5. Ukulele Workshop and Concert starts at 10am, FREE concert at noon. Workshop cost £4, book with Ashby Library. How to Improve Your Home Movies – professional film maker David Wilford helps you make the most of your phone, or tablet video camera. Ashby Library, 2pm to 4pm. Cost £4. Poetry for Today with Dave Reeves. 7.30pm to 9pm at Ashby Library. Cost £5.

24th & 25th May

Food Gusto Food & Drink Fair from 10am to 4pm on the Bath Grounds. Entry £1

24th May

Folk in the Library at Ashby Library, 2pm to 4pm. Zouch Acoustic Club host a ‘singers welcome’ afternoon. Cost £2. The Frog & The Princess at Ashby Baptist Church, 4pm to 5pm. Suitable for 4 years and over. Cost £3. Mellow Baku and her Hot Jazz Band at Venture Theatre, 8pm. Cost £9.

25th May

Girl with a Book at Ashby Library, 6.30pm to 8pm. The story of Malala the girl who defied the Taliban plus Q & A session with writer Nick Wood. Cost £6.

27th May

Poetry for Children at Ashby Library, 10.30am to 12.30pm. Workshop for under 11’s accompanied by an adult. Cost £2 per child. Ashby Rising Stars at Ashby Library, 2pm to 4pm. Local films set during the English Civil War. FREE, limited places, please book. An evening with Ashby Writers Club at Ashby Library, 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Myths and Legends by local writers. Cost £4.

28th & 29th May

Under 16’s Rock School at Ashby Academy of Rock. Release your inner rock star! Cost £25. Classical Concert from students and teachers of Ashby Music School. At Ashby Library, 7pm to 8pm. Cost £4, book at Ashby Library.

29th May

Children’s Art Workshop at Manor House School, 9am to 3pm. Myths and Legends mask making. Please contact Zoe on 07754 977796 or via email to zoe@zoepotter.co.uk to book. Cost £25 including all materials. How to self-publish an ebook – assistance from published authors at Ashby Library, 2pm to 4pm. Cost £4, book at Ashby Library. An Evening with Bill Caddick folk concert at Ashby Library, 7pm to 9.45pm. Cost £6.

30th May

Play in a Day with Chorus Theatre. At Ashby Baptist Church, 10am to 6.30pm plus performance. For 8 to 13 years old. Cost £10. Book Monsters Children’s Workshop at Ashby Library, 10am to 11.30am. Monster themed crafts for 5 to 10 years old, with Di Lorriman. FREE, limited places, please book. Learn to Flatpick at Ashby Library, 2pm to 4pm. Improve your guitar playing with Guy Rogers. Cost £7. Song of the Soar film and live music at Ashby Library, 7.30pm to 10pm. Cost £6.

31st May

Folk, Poetry, Monologues and Storytelling at Ashby Library, 10.30am to 12.30pm with Zouch Acoustic Club and guest storytellers. Cost £2. Intimate Eva Cassidy at Ashby Venture Theatre, 7pm to 10.30pm. A superb tribute by Lesley Curtis. Cost £10.

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pets corner

Taking care of your best friend OUR pets are special to us, so the decision to allow someone else to look after them can be a difficult one. Sometimes however, because of work or ill health, we may need to. Our worries about giving this responsibility to someone else can be eased however, if we take careful steps when choosing a pet sitter or dog walker. Try to seek out professionals who have been recommended. Ask others for their suggestions when you take your dog to the park or to the vet. If you don’t have anyone who can make a recommendation, take a look at the register held by the National Association of Pet Sitters and Dog Walkers. The Association is dedicated to promoting professionalism and ethical standards within the pet sitting industry. They have a Code of Practice for their members and you can also read reviews on their website. Seeing the person handle your pet can be very comforting. If your dog is to stay at the pet sitter’s property, you will want to visit to ensure the environment

is suitable. These meetings will also give you a chance to question the carer and check on their knowledge and experience. Your pet sitter or dog walker should create a written record of your contact details and your pet’s needs and note down your vets. If they are to take your dog for walks, you will need to discuss frequency, locations, and whether they can let your dog off its leash. Do tell them if your dog has any bad habits. The pet carer should ask you to sign a contract confirming the arrangements and the terms and conditions. You will want to check that they have relevant insurance. If they will be coming to your home to look after your pet or to take them for a walk when you are not in, you may also want to see a Criminal Records check. If both parties are fully advised, there should be no surprises and the service will be better because it is tailored to your pet’s needs.

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book reviews

The Countryside is Calling When Shakespeare wrote, ‘Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May,’ it’s highly unlikely he was picturing Ma and Pop Larkin and a ‘perfick’ lifestyle in the rural southern counties of England. Comparing your love with a summer’s day though goes hand in hand with ripening apples in the orchard, meadows of wild flowers blossoming and our love affair with the lush, green pastures of early summer. Here are a handful of novels to spark the romance of this often tempestuous relationship with our landscape.

the darling buds of may...

H.E. Bates

Get yourself some scones, clotted cream and jam and settle down with a nice cuppa. This is the story of the infectiously joyful and downright gorgeous Larkin family. If ever there was a couple with a lust for life, it’s Ma and Pa, who are just brimming over with unbridled enthusiasm for each other, their growing and extended family, and the idyllic rural setting they inhabit. It’s all apple and strawberry picking combined with family life and love. H.E. Bates’ love of the English countryside just exudes from the pages, bringing sunshine, even in the pouring rain.

A Kestrel for a Knave... Barry Hines

To Yorkshire now, and a coming of age tale of love and respect between a boy and his bird of prey. Billy Casper’s life is far from the rural idyll of the Larkin family. It’s a tough existence in the mining town of Barnsley and he struggles to find any joy in his world at all. His life is transformed when he takes Kes under his wing, so to speak. Billy learns how to train and care for his bird in this gritty and poignant novel that’s been a classroom favourite for years. Escaping to the surrounding rolling hills enables both bird and boy to soar. It’s a fantastic novel and one that will stay with you for a long time.

Swallows and Amazons... Arthur Ransome Life is going swimmingly for the Walker children, aka the ‘Swallows’, until they come across the ‘Amazons’: the fearsome Blackett sisters. John, Susan, Titty and Roger must stand their ground on Wild Cat Island as adventures abound in this classic tale. Set in the Norfolk Broads across a glorious summer holiday, it’s a story about growing up, and life on the ‘high seas’. This is what the six week break was created for; it’s time to escape and live out an alternative life where the children rule the waves and the grown-ups are nowhere to be seen.

Cold Comfort Farm

... Stella Gibbons

Newly-orphaned Flora Poste uproots and moves to rural Sussex to live with her relatives. And what a bunch of oddballs they are! The Starkadders are a family in crisis and Flora’s arrival at Cold Comfort Farm couldn’t have been timed better. She wastes no time in whipping them into shape with her own brand of common sense, resourcefulness and her willingness to boss other people around. This is a brilliant comic novel that will make even your family seem normal.

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www.ashbychurch.co.uk

As in the days of NOAH...

Given the recent floods, we could be forgiven for feeling an affinity with Noah – in fact it’s probably the perfect time to launch a film about ‘the’ flood! Away from Russell Crowe, the media hype and the ‘Hollywood-isation’ surrounding the film, the Biblical narrative describes an event that really resonates with our lives and the situation we find ourselves in today. At the time of the flood people thought Noah was mad; how could he believe that the world was going to end? No matter how often or how clearly he told them, no-one (apart from his family) believed him – he was simply ignored and laughed at. Of course Noah was actually telling the truth. As the time for the flood drew closer, he would no doubt have become more and more frantic in trying to convince everyone that their time was running out.

Editorial by Ashby Christadelphian Church, Union Passage, Ashby

www.ashbychurch.co.uk

In a similar way, the Bible contains many clear messages talking about the fact that Jesus will one day return. Many passages describe what the state of the world will be like at that time. We only need to watch the daily news to see clear signs that His return is getting close. The key is to recognise that, just as in the days of Noah, the opportunity we have to respond is simply running out. If you’ve seen the film you’ll have seen the distress of those who ignored Noah and left it too late. We too have a deadline that we must be careful not to miss. Surely none of us want to be like the people in the time of Noah, banging on the door of the ark trying in vain to get in? Let’s not miss the boat. Why not read the Bible today and find out for yourself the lifeline God is offering you? Useful passage to look up: Matthew ch24 verses 37-44.

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money matters

‘Budget’ Retirement Planning AT Bleathwood we know when it came to writing an article for ‘Ashby Life Money Matters’ last year we had regularly touched on the subject - Retirement Planning – so we decided a month ago to look at other subjects. We thought about Savings, Inheritance Tax and even the New Workplace Pension, then we had the budget and its proposed changes to Retirement Planning, so what could we do? We have to say we really welcome the changes announced in the budget. The proposed changes are radical and we feel sure we will not be seeing an influx of Lamborghinis roaming the streets of the UK. Referring back to our previous articles you will note we have mentioned more than once the extensive options available when someone looks to retire and the suggested new ideas have only added more questions which need answers. Also our Chancellor has been very clear it is vital to seek advice when making those decisions. We have already found out that these new ideas on how you can access your pension has not only stimulated the Retirement Solutions market, but has started to encourage more people to ask the questions about saving within a Pension Plan and access, rather than putting it off. So what did the budget propose? • From April 2015 people will be able to access their Whole Pension Pot, you may be charged at your marginal tax rate. • Those using Drawdown (taking income directly from the pension plan) can now take up to 150% of an equivalent annuity • Trivial Pension Rules - If your total pension pot is £30,000 or less then you can take it all out now (and pay tax at your marginal rate on the balance after

tax free cash) • Proposal to cut the 55% Tax Rate set on the balance of a pension fund death benefits • The ban on transfers of Public Sector Pension Plans and it is also considered this ban maybe placed on similar Private Sector schemes Do we consider this is the end for Annuities? NO, why? Because those who do save for retirement are still focused on ensuring their money provides them with an income to live. So in some circumstances Annuities will still be the right option. There are also proposals on changing the dates when you can access your pension in the future and this will be potentially linked to 10 years before your State Retirement Age. The Budget also announced changes to ISA’s, so we will now have a new simple ISA called NISA with even more flexibility and a higher allowance. The ability to move NISA from Cash to Stocks & Shares and back to Cash offers savers many more options. Also you have a boost in savings option through National Savings, increase in Premium Bonds allowance with bigger prizes and new Pensioner Savings Bonds later in the year, with attractive savings rates. We consider this budget produced some fascinating changes. 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 following this budget. We can only suggest you take steps and seek truly independent financial advice before you make any decisions following these proposed changes.

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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ashby library news

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.

OUR REGULAR EVENTS: ‘Wriggly Readers’ and ‘Story and Rhymetime’ for children aged 0-5 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 meet 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, £5 per session. Prebooking essential. The unusual and popular ukulele playing group meets every Wednesday 10.00am 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.

To aid flexibility and ease joints, try Therapeutic Yoga every Wednesday 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. 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, email Isabel.houghton@yahoo.com. ALSO, JUST FOR THIS MONTH: Lunch Time Talk: How to De-Clutter with Judith Morris Friday 9th May, 12.30pm to 1.30pm £2.50 members, £3 non-members. Professional organiser, Judith Morris discusses how to de-clutter and organise your home for an easier life. ASHBY ARTS FESTIVAL A complete programme is available at the Tourist Information office. See page 14 for events that will be hosted and bookable at the library.

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

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puzzle page Stove (4) Confessed (8) Remove (7) Tall structure (5) Current (12) Married woman (3) Smooth surface (5) Perceive (3) Clarifications (12) Fine porcelain (5) Passion (7) Calamity (8) Small room (4)

down

1 2 4 5 6 7 8 12 13 15 19 20 22

Conquer (8) Devoured (5) Small spot (3) Road junction (12) Defeats (7) Terrible (4) Butterfly larva (12) Simple (5) Private (8) A swinging time? (7) Small fruit (5) Not alkali (4) Female sheep (3)

qUICK CROSSWORD

SUDOKU 38

Solutions on page 116

Across

1 3 9 10 11 14 16 17 18 21 22 23 24

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 116.

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on the beat

Hello everyone... OVER the last few weeks, we have suffered a number of shed break ins at various locations over the area: With this in mind, if you have a shed or out building, I would recommend that you take the following steps: • If possible, make sure that the shed is near to the house, or clearly visible from the house. • Make sure that the door, door frame and walls are solid and replace any damaged or rotten area with new sections. • Often sheds are left unlocked or without any appropriate security such as padlocks, chains or lighting. By installing these items, you can give better protection to your property. • Replace broken glass panes with laminated glass. Fit windows with grille fixed steel plates inside the shed. • Fit key operated window locks on opening windows. If windows are never opened, screw them permanently shut from the inside.

• Use metal rings and chains fixed to the shed frame with security screws to enable you to secure your electrical items, ladders and tools. • Fit a battery powered alarm. These can be purchased from DIY stores and garden centres. • Make sure your household insurance policy covers theft from your garden and outbuildings.

PC MARK ARJOO telephone: 101 voicemail ID: 1667 email: mark.arjoo@leicestershire.pnn.police.uk

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back chat

Heal Pain

by Sarah Kavanagh, Ashby Osteopathic Clinic

www.ashbyosteopath.com

IN this month’s article Sarah Kavanagh from Ashby Osteopathic Clinic takes a look at some of the possible causes of pain in the heel and also how to prevent it. The heel bone is the largest of the foot bones. It is designed to form a firm support for the weight of your body and to absorb the impact when your feet hit the ground during running and walking. Due to the amount of force that goes through your heel it is not surprising that heel pain is such a common occurrence. Although heel pain can be mild and will sometimes disappear on its own, in some cases the pain persists and can become a chronic problem. There are a variety of causes for heel pain. The most common cause is a condition called plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, which causes pain on the underside of the heel. The plantar fascia works like a very strong rubber band between the heel and the ball of your foot to form the arch of your foot. If the band is short, you'll have a high arch, and if it's long, you'll have a low arch, this is what some people call flat feet. The later stages of plantar fasciitis can often cause a heel spur, which is a calcium deposit in the plantar fascia attachment due to a constant strain on the heel bone. The heel spur does not usually cause pain but can be a sign of severe plantar fascia problems. There are a number of things that can predispose you to developing plantar fascitis. For example: • A sudden increase in activity such as taking up a new sport or an unusually long walk in unsuitable shoes. I have noticed an increase in heel pain due to the recent trend of very flat shoes for men and women. • Weight gain, for example during pregnancy (especially as the ligaments get looser), puts greater pressure on the plantar fascia. • Conditions such as over pronation which causes the feet to rollin excessively putting greater pressure on the plantar fascia. (This

is often referred to as flatfooted.) This rolling is caused by a change to the walking pattern (for example walking with toes pointing out) and also in response to a flattening of the front part of the foot over the balls of the feet. Patients may notice a bunion forming on the inside surface of their big toe due to these issues. • Running on hard pavements and increasing your hill work can also cause plantar fasciitis. Stretching before and after exercise is often neglected yet it is one of the most important steps to help prevent injuries and heel pain. If you are a reasonably regular runner it is also important to wear the correct shoe for your body. Also, stretching the bottom of the foot, as well as the calf can significantly reduce strain throughout the foot. When easing into a new or increasingly difficult routine is also important to limit the amount of sudden pressure on the foot. • An inactive lifestyle that is centred around a desk job will decrease your calf muscle flexibility. This can be an underlying cause of heel pain. This leaves you very prone to injury and aggravation around the heel with only a slight increase in activity, such as a sudden dash for the bus.

There are many other causes of pain in and around the heel that we have not discussed. 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.

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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...

Barbara Royds Local artist and chair of the Ashby Arts Festival organising committee. What inspired you to become involved with Ashby Arts Festival? When I moved to Ashby I signed up for Art classes at Ivanhoe College. It was a good way to combine my love of art with meeting people. Through this I joined Ashby Art Club and 5 years ago I first painted one of the outdoor boards for the Arts Festival. Gradually I became more involved with the Festival and when the previous chair of the committee emigrated to Australia I offered to step in. I’d never been in that type of position before so there has been a lot to learn. Now, in my second year as chair, I’m enjoying it even more. What is your favourite local restaurant? The Wheel at Ticknall, they never disappoint. Other favourites are Lakeside at Moira and, for a coffee, North’s on Bath Street. Where do you like to go for a day or evening out? I’m from Manchester and go up there and meet friends, and I go over to Hebden Bridge where my sister lives, quite often. I also enjoy a trip to the cinema and eating out. What is your favourite local shop and why? I like Woodlander

on Bath Street and also the Market – especially the flower shop and deli/greengrocers just as you go into the Market hall. If you could change one thing about the town what would it be? I’d plant trees within the town centre, in some of the areas where the pavements are wider and space is available, to make it look more like a market town. If you didn’t live in this area where would you live and why? I don’t think I’d ever leave Ashby but I imagine I’d perhaps like Cornwall for the beaches, freedom and quiet. What is the best thing that has happened to you recently? I just enjoy my life all the time! I love where I live, what I do and especially the friends I have made since I moved to Ashby. Volunteers are always being sought to help with the painting of the big boards and other aspects of the Arts Festival – anyone interested in getting involved can email Barbara on barbara.royds@talktalk.net.

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community board Ivanhoe Way Challenge

Creative Writing Group

Supporting Wishes 4 Kids Registration is now open for the 37 mile challenge walk which takes place in June. This year there will also be the option of the ‘Half’ Challenge for those who wish to cover a shorter distance. See www.ivanhoechallenge.co.uk or call 07751 259489.

A friendly group for inspiration, discussion and writing. Meet upstairs at The Vine, Bath Street on Tuesday afternoons, 2pm to 4pm. £7 per session. Contact Helen Johnson on 01530 414 247 or email landlocked99 @hotmail.co.uk for further details.

Young Entrepreneur Award 2014 Win £1000 for your business idea. Are you between 16 and 23 years of age and have a great idea to start a business? To apply, complete the simple questionnaire from the website www.nwleiceschamber.co.uk/ye2014. Applications need to be in no later than 30th June 2014.

Relaxing meditation and practical advice to help us in our daily life at Legion House, South Street. Classes from 7.30pm to 9.30pm on Thursdays 1st May to 22nd May then 5th June to 22nd July. There is no need to book. Seating is on chairs. Classes cost £5, for further details contact 01283 732 338 or email meditate@tarakmc.org.

Coleorton and New Lount Volunteer Group

Ashby Dementia Support Group

Dates for May are: New Lount 3rd, 13th and 31st May. Coleorton Wood 17th and 27th May. Work sessions start at 10am and usually last for 4 hours. Volunteers are welcome to come along for all or part of the sessions. If you are interested in joining the group contact coleorton11@gmail.com or www.cnlvg.moonfruit.co.uk.

Social group for dementia sufferers and their carer’s. Friday afternoons 2pm at La Zouch coffee house. For more details contact Sue on 01530 414 885.

CAP Money course The next course will run for three Monday evenings starting 12th May at 7.45pm in The Coffee Lounge at Ashby Baptist Church, Brook Street. Call 0779 054 2041 or email capmoney@capmnf.org.uk.

Ashby Arts Festival Closing date to enter paintings into the Art Exhibition at the Royal Hotel is Friday, 16th May 2014. Closing date to enter the Photographic Competition is Friday, 9th May 2014. Cash prizes in both competitions! Entry Forms from Ashby Tourist Information Centre or download from www.ashbyartsfestival.co.uk.

Concordia Choir Concert ‘Around the world in 80 minutes’ at Holy Trinity Church, Ashby on 7th of June. Tickets now available, £8 and £6.50 through Ashby TIC or from the choir on 0758 348 4773.

Charity Fashion Show Toxic Cherry celebrate their 3rd Birthday and raise funds for Hospice Hope on 27th June. There will be a raffle, auction, stands from local businesses and live music, all at The Lyric Rooms. Tickets £10, includes a drink and buffet - available from Toxic Cherry.

Christian Aid Week Please support house-to-house collections and special events from 11th to 17th May.

Volunteers needed – Girl guiding A range of flexible volunteering opportunities. For further information call 0800 169 5901, visit www.girlguiding.org. uk or contact Marie Nevin on 0742 964 0740.

Tara Kadampa Meditation Centre

Ashby Guild of Artists Spring Art Exhibition at Ticknall Village Hall DE73 7JW. May 24th, 25th and 26th from 10am to 5pm (11am Sun). Entry 50p donation to charity. Free parking. Refreshments.

Ashby Open Gardens 2014 Visit the open gardens on 7th and 8th June to find a wide variety of design and planting ideas to inspire you. Entry is by a ‘Passport’ (£3 per adult), available from the Tourist Information Centre, North Street or Posh Pantry, Rushtons Yard, Market Street from 1st June or from any of the open gardens on the day. Details of the open gardens can be found at www.ashbyopengardens.co.uk or call 01530 413 225. All proceeds from sale of passports will be donated to Cancer Research UK.

NCT Nearly new sale Moira Village Hall on 14th June 2014. To sell or volunteer for the day contact Emma on abcnctnearlynew@googlemail.com.

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Clockwise Credit Union Clockwise Credit Union is a not-for-profit community bank. The Measham office is now at Coalville Library open Friday’s between 9.30am to noon. For further information see www.clockwise.coop or call 0116 242 3900.

Ashby de la Zouch Town Council Calendar of Meetings Annual Town Meeting on the 12th May, Annual Town Council Meeting and Councillor Surgery on 19th May, to arrange an appointment contact the Town Council on 01530 416961 or email info@ashbytowncouncil.org.uk. 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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WI poem This month we share this lovely poem from Ashby Castle WI member, Mary Tuckey.

The Art of Brilliance The brilliance of a sun kissed raindrop On the petal of a rose. Handicapped men reaching the mountain top; Training, striving, helping – courage grows. The brilliance of the written word; Informing, entertaining, inspiring, Always mightier than the sword. A mother’s smile – loving, being.

A number of the local WI groups held a competition for members to write a sonnet and Mary penned the winning entry. Many thanks to Mary and Ashby Castle WI for allowing us to share her sonnet with you:

The brilliant, unfailing, starry night sky; Twinkling, encircling, glowing. Art - portraying, picturing why? Our beautiful, terrible world – defining, Meaningful, indescribable, Indefinable, incomprehensible.

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seasonal recipes Quick and easy to make these fruity muffins are ideal for a mid-morning treat. They are best eaten on the day of making but can be frozen for up to 2 months – just thaw and pop in a hot oven for a few minutes for that just baked taste!

Ginger and Rhubarb Muffins YOU WILL NEED • 175g thin rhubarb stalks, trimmed • 275 g plain flour • 2 tsp baking powder • 125g caster sugar • 1-2 tsp finely grated orange zest • 150g butter, melted and cooled for 5 minutes

• 100ml milk • 2 medium eggs, beaten • 1 large piece stem ginger, finely chopped • Chopped crystallized orange peel to decorate (optional)

Ser ves Rea 6 d 70 y in min s

Aubergine & Chickpea Curry YOU WILL NEED • 2 aubergines • 2 tbsp sunflower oil, plus extra to serve, if you like • 1 tbsp brown or black mustard seeds • 10-12 curry leaves, plus extra to serve, if you like • 2 onions, finely chopped

• 2 dried chillies, chopped • 4 tsp garam masala • 2 tsp ground coriander • 2 tsp turmeric • 400ml can coconut milk • 6 tomatoes, quartered • 400g can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

GET STARTED

GET STARTED 1 Preheat the oven to 1900C/fan 1700C/ gas mark 5. Line a 12-hole muffin tray with 12 paper muffin cases. Cut the rhubarb stems in half lengthways then chop into 1cm pieces. 2 Sift the flour and baking powder into a large bowl and stir in the sugar and orange zest. Make a well in the centre. 3 Whisk together the butter, milk and eggs and pour into the well. Stir until just combined but don’t over-mix. Gently fold in the rhubarb and stem ginger. 4 Divide the mixture evenly between the muffin cases. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until risen, golden and just firm to the touch. Sprinkle with the crystallized orange peel, if liked. Serve warm or cold.

Celebrate National Vegetarian Week from 19th-25th May, with our light and tasty curry

1 Chop the aubergine into large chunks (about 1 inch / 2.5cm across). Heat ½ tbsp oil in a large non-stick pan, and brown half the aubergine chunks for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crisp all over. Remove to a plate and repeat with another ½ tbsp oil and the remaining aubergines, then set everything aside. 2 Add the remaining tbsp oil to the pan with the mustard seeds and curry leaves and fry for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the onions and continue cooking until they are softened and beginning to brown. Add the dried chillies and spices with a spoonful of the thick coconut milk from the top of the can. Fry for 1 minute more. Add the remaining coconut milk, tomatoes and half a can of water. Simmer for 25 to 30 minutes until thick and saucy. 3 Stir in the chickpeas and aubergines. Continue simmering for 5 minutes or so, until everything is hot and the aubergines are tender. Serve with rice or warm naan bread.

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prize competition

Win a pair of tickets to Ashby Fake Festival ON 7th June Ashby Fake Festival is back in town and music fans are in for a treat again this year. All the action takes place inside the Fake Festivals marquee on the Bath Grounds (so no worries, whatever the weather!) and with early bird tickets available until 7th May now is the time to book! Headlining the Festival this year are tribute bands Oasish, The Bon Jovi Experience and the Really Hot Chili Peppers. Support will be from carefully selected local acts. Fake Festival organisers attend gigs to assess the talent of local bands and how they would perform on the big Fake Festival stage. The local line-up chosen for this year’s festival includes W4, The Decade Runners, Nuclear Minogue and The Dirty Thursdays. Fake Festivals are also holding a special three day festival in September at Thoresby Park, Nottingham. All those who purchase a ticket to Ashby Fake Festival will automatically qualify for a free ticket to the Big Fake Festival at Thorseby Park too - all you need to do is

register your ticket code on the website. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to see 18 of the best tribute bands, plus free camping. Tickets for Ashby Fake Festival are available at a variety of local outlets (including Ashby Tourist Information), or online at www.fake festivals.co.uk.

WIN! A PAIR OF TICKETS We have one pair of tickets to give away to a lucky reader. Just send the name of the one of the acts who will be appearing at this year’s festival along with your own name and address either on a postcard to Ashby Life (FF Competition), Castle House, South Street, Ashby de la Zouch, LE65 2BR or by email to competition@ ashbylife.co.uk with the subject line ‘FF Competition’ and the first drawn out of the hat after the closing date will receive a pair of tickets to the Festival. Closing date is Friday 23rd May 2014.

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wordsearch

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young ashby

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ashby health centre

MONTHLY UPDATE PLEASE find information on our processes for dealing with test results and busy afternoons below. We hope this helps you understand how we deal with each of these situations.

Test Results Each day our doctors review the results of patients’ tests which are sent back to the practice. Unfortunately we don’t have the staff capacity to ring you with your results. Therefore please ring us (after 11am) to find out your results a few days after your test unless you are told it will take longer. The receptionists will either tell you your result is “normal no action” or that the “doctor would like to speak to you”. If it is the latter it is much better if the doctor who requested the test discusses the

results with you and so the receptionist will offer to make you an appointment with this doctor. There is no need to speak to the on-call doctor the same day. If it is urgent for you to be seen when the results come back, we will get in touch with you. All other results can wait a few days until the doctor has an appointment. Thank you for your co-operation with this.

On-call in the afternoon During the afternoon, if we are out of appointments but you feel your medical problem is urgent for that day, the receptionist will arrange for the on-call doctor to phone you to give you advice or ask you to come down at a time when they can see you. Please don’t pop down to the surgery hoping for an appointment because the on-call doctor may be out visiting a patient or dealing with other urgent cases and you could have a very long wait. Thank you for your co-operation with this.

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just 4 fun

Solutions on page 116

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 116

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venture theatre news Bringing you the latest news from The Venture Theatre, Ashby Dramatic Society

An Actor’s Role THIS month we talk to Nicola Harvey about her experiences of being an actor at The Venture Theatre. Nicola has been with us since 2009. Her first role was a minor character in ‘Trivial Pursuit’. She remembers “The play was set in summer time so I had to wear a short dress with no sleeves but we were rehearsing during October and November and I was freezing! During one scene, we were having a barbeque. I was holding a drink and I was nervous as well so I couldn’t stop shaking!” Nicola has a photographic memory so finds learning lines easy but actors are often required to put on

different accents so how does she learn them? “I don’t know. I just can do it but some are easier than others.” She told us the cockney accent she needed to do for Eliza in Pygmalion was the most difficult she has tackled to date. Another important requirement is the ability to cope with disasters on stage! Mrs deWinter in Rebecca was Nicola’s first leading role and on one night she was supposed to be putting roses in a vase when there was a power cut and all the lights went out. “They went off on my line as well so I was thinking, do I carry on or what?”. She did carry on, in the dark for about two minutes “But

it seems like a lifetime when you’re on stage!” By a funny coincidence, the next line for the other character on stage at the time was “I’ve got to go and sort the lighting out.” Nicola told us she’d already played her ‘dream role’ which was Eliza in Pygmalion but she would also like to have the chance to play a really strong female in a Shakespeare play such as Lady Macbeth or Beatrice in Much Ado About Nothing. “I’d like to play someone really nasty, something I could really get my teeth into!” To read more about Nicola’s life on stage please 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

Bluebells, Renishaw and Romance BEAUTIFUL bluebells - this iconic plant which is slow to establish is indicative of ancient woodlands. You can see woodland glades jewelled in the iconic rich bold blue flowers very locally in woodland walks around Ashby and particularly Several Woods near Hartshorne has a heart lifting display. A superb private garden open to the public with a wonderful bluebell display jewelling the beech woodland and camellia walk is Renishaw Hall gardens. It is so worth the 50 minute car journey north into Derbyshire. To awaken your desire to visit this garden, picture not just the bluebell carpeted woodland areas, but imagine a garden that envelops you with perfection and beauty from the blue delphinium borders to a white garden, a secret garden and the most immaculately trimmed high yew hedges you may ever see. It is just one of those special gardens that you will want to race round and see all at once and then go round again and again. The success of this garden may be in the designed framework. Magnificent rare trees, the exquisite grouping of plants and colours and also the views make it special. Friendships with famous 20th century garden designers who visited this garden and imparted their opinions may also be a reason it ought to be considered as being up there with Sissinghurst and the best of the rest.

There is a new laburnum tunnel, unusual and unique in the way it loops around, which was suggested and designed by head gardener David Kesteven. His knowledge, perfection for detail, and joy at being there is an asset to the estate. You are sure to be inspired and some of the plants in the garden can be purchased at their plant sales shop. The website for opening times is www.renishaw-hall.co.uk or call 01246 432310. Happy gardening.

Francesca Email info@francescasinclair.co.uk Photograph courtesy of Renishaw Hall

GARDENING JOBS FOR MAY:

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A romantic air swamps this garden. Perhaps this is a place with heart and soul because it so clearly reflects that the owners of Renishaw, the Sitwell family generations and the garden team personally care. They are dedicated to continuing the excellence of the garden, making changes where needed or when nature dictates. I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t quite put my finger on it, but it is perhaps the fusion of Italian and Englishness that exudes romance and exhilaration.

Hoe and hand weed borders and vegetable plots Plant summer hanging baskets Harden off summer bedding by opening cold frames in the day Thin out directly sown annuals Successionally sow salad crops

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Sow sweetcorn and French runner beans, cauliflowers, sprouting broccoli and leeks Put straw under strawberries Stake and keep staking those perennials which will fall over such as delphiniums Cut lawns weekly and remember a high nitrogen feed Weather can still be unpredictable so watch out for frosts

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storytime

candles As Cassie walked up College Street she was accompanied by the unsettling feeling she had forgotten something.

straighteners would be ruined. Mum was going to be furious. Her life wouldn’t be worth living. There had to be a way out of this.

She was still in a bad mood with Mum for not allowing her to wear high heels, and Bethany for crying because she wasn’t invited to the party.

A devious thought crept into Cassie’s head. She had always forbidden Bethany from going in her bedroom but today she might make an exception. She pulled out her phone and dialled home.

Bethany was a strange kid. Her current obsessions were blowing out birthday candles and answering the phone. Cassie could tolerate the candle blowing, but the phone answering was too much, especially when a boy called for her. Mum encouraged Bethany, saying she was the perfect device for getting rid of both cold callers and boys. So Cassie had told Bethany that once you’re a teenager you don’t have candles anymore and Bethany had cried even louder and vowed never to become a teenager. The last thing Cassie heard as she slammed the front door was Mum saying, “One teenager in the house is quite enough, thank you”. Spots of rain splashed onto the pavement. She’d spent ages straightening her hair and now she was going to arrive at the party looking like an otter. With horror, she remembered what she had forgotten. She had borrowed Mum’s straighteners without asking and left them lying on her bedroom carpet; even worse, they were still switched on. The carpet would be melted. The

As expected, after a few rings, Bethany picked up. “Is Mum there?”. Cassie whispered. “No”. Bethany said. “Can you do me a favour?”. Cassie asked. “Okay”. Her four year old voice sounded even younger on the phone. “Go into my room and very carefully un-plug Mummy’s straighteners”. Even as she spoke Cassie knew this was a terrible idea. “I’ll bring you back

some cake if you don’t tell Mum”. This bribe did not make her feel any better. “Mummy said I’ve got to stay in the lounge”. Bethany said. “Where is Mum?”. Cassie asked. “She’s in the loft”. Bethany answered. “What’s she doing up there?”. “She’s gone to get the candles”, Bethany said, “I’m allowed to blow them out later”. “Okay, so while she’s up there, sneak into my room”. Cassie continued. “No. I’m waiting for the candles”. Bethany insisted and hung up. Cassie stamped her feet in fury. The melting carpet would be beginning to smell. Mum could discover the straighteners at any moment. Cassie looked at her watch. The party was about to start. She should turn off her phone, go to the party, and by the time she got home Mum might have calmed down. She would be grounded forever but at least she wouldn’t miss the party. She groaned, and looked down at her feet. Ten minutes later Cassie burst through her own front door. “Only me!”. She yelled, dashing upstairs, “Forgot something!”. She flicked her bedroom light on. The bulb had gone. Cassie cursed and dropped to her knees, feeling gingerly around on the carpet for the straighteners. When she finally closed her fingers around them they were completely cold. The carpet was undamaged. “The power’s been off since you left”. Mum called, “Do you want a candle?”. “No need!”. Cassie stealthily returned the straighteners to Mum’s dressing table and skipped back downstairs. She was out the front door, on her way to the party once more; grateful she wasn’t wearing high heels.

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Jackie Brewster

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going places THIS month Villair Travel, on Bath Street Corner in Ashby, tell us a little more about the beautiful holiday destination of Croatia.

Welcome to Croatia

From the air, Croatia’s coastline is breathtakingly beautiful as deep, emerald pine woods descend to the shore, then white stone beaches and islands sparkle before the bright sapphire blue of the Adriatic sea hits your eyes. This is Croatia’s wow factor. For many years the tourist board has used the slogan “the Mediterranean as it once was”. It’s a perfect description of this amazing little country of 1,244 islands of which approximately 50 are inhabited. There are few destinations less than a three hour flight from the UK that offer the diversity of Croatia. Many visitors head for the coast and islands where the pristine waters of the Adriatic are some of the cleanest in the world. More than 130 beaches and marinas have been awarded the coveted Blue Flag status. This new country became independent in 1991, and joined the European Union last year. It has a long and colourful history as Liburnian, Illyrian and other tribes, the Romans, Venetians. Hungarians and Ottomans have all left their cultural stamp. In some places, tiny stone houses and temples are still standing from Illyrian times and national treasures also include Roman relics, medieval walled cities, churches, basilicas, palaces and temples in styles from Byzantine to Baroque. Exquisite stone carvings are seen on buildings in even the smallest cobbled streets. Quaint villages and towns usually lead to a hidden cloister here or a beautiful piazza there. Simply stunning. So what of contemporary Croatia? Croatians on the coast enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle with the flair and charm of the Italians just across the water. Customs such as the afternoon siesta in summer and the ‘corsa’ evening walk are all here, as are festivals of dance, music and tradition using the open-air treasures as a stage.

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Service is usually of a high standard in even the simplest of restaurants and many of the world’s brand names are available in quality shops and stores. Temperatures in July and August, the hottest months, are 28 to 32°C. May, June and September are usually sunny and between 22 to 25°C, April and October are often around a pleasant 16 to 21°C and nights can be a little cooler. The sea usually remains warm until midOctober. Water is of high quality and is drinkable everywhere. Croatia is closer than you think too. Flight times are short. Birmingham or East Midlands to Dubrovnik is approximately 2 hour 45 minutes, Birmingham to Split or Pula is 2 hour 30 minutes and London to Pula, Rijeka and Zagreb is usually two hours. Wherever you choose on the coast or islands, less than a two hour drive inland will take you into a different world of national parks, forests, waterfalls, mountains and rural traditions. We strongly recommend taking some excursions or hiring a car to explore. Driving on Croatia’s uncrowded roads is a breeze. The breathtakingly beautiful Croatian Adriatic Get ready to be overwhelmed because the Croatian coast and her islands are beautiful beyond belief. The sea and everything and anything ‘maritime’ is part of the Croatian soul and locals are constantly talking about their boats, telling tales of the sea and so on. It is the mix of a dramatic coastline with over 1000 islands, the pristine state of the sea itself (Blue Flag International and the late Jean Jacques Cousteau are worthy referees!) and the vivid colours – one moment deep sapphire blue, the next a kind of turquoise aquamarine - that make the Croatian Adriatic so very special. There are a number of cruises to choose from – from a Deluxe cruise to casual cruises or the more lively Vitality cruise with plenty of activity to keep you busy. Pop in to Villair Travel at 1 Bath Street Corner, Ashby to find out more or call them on 01530 413055.

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what’s on... May Pub quiz – in support of CAP debt help in the National Forest. The Plough, Ashby at 9pm. Entry £1. Ashby Castle WI – Resolution meeting followed by entertainment. Congregational Church, Kilwardby Street at 2pm. There is a small fee for visitors and refreshments are available. For more info, call Lesley on 01530 455 957.

welcome to attend. Legion House, South Street, Ashby. Entry £1 donation. Tel: 01283 220 534 or ashby.royalbritishlegion@gmail.com. Holy Trinity Playgroup Coffee Morning – Join parents of Holy Trinity playgroup children at Holy Trinity Church from 9.15am to 11.00am. Please feel free to bring along any little ones, there will be plenty of toys to play with.

1st May to 3rd May

7th May

1st May

Venture Theatre – ‘Fish out of Water’, a holiday farce by Derek Benfield. Curtain up 7.30pm, tickets available from Ashby TIC.

2nd May

Century Theatre at Snibston – ‘The Railway Man’ (15). True story of Eric Lomax's experience as a POW. Starts 7.30pm, tickets £3.50 pay on the door. Tel: 01530 278 444. Christian Aid quiz at Holy Trinity Church Hall. Teams of up to 6 people (go as a team, or join others on the night). Snacks and soft drinks provided, or bring a bottle and glasses if you wish. From 7.30pm. Tickets £5 from Frank Bedford. Tel. 01530 467 183. Christian Aid – ‘Coffee and SuperSoup Lunch/Puddings Day’, Baptist Church, Brook Street, Ashby (coffee 10am to noon, lunch noon to 2pm).

3rd May

Ashby Museum Kids’ Club – ‘Young Historians’ at Ashby Museum, North St., Ashby from 1 to 2pm. Free entry. French Market – 9am to 5pm in Brook Street. See page 10 for details. Vintage Fair – with over 40 stalls. From 10am to 3pm at Hood Park Leisure centre, North Street, Ashby. See www.curlymagpie.co.uk.

4th May

Volunteering opportunities – Conservation launch event at Donisthorpe Woodland Park with Peter Wood, from 10am to 3pm. Places are limited so you will need to book in advance. Tel: 0116 305 5000 or email countryparks@leics.gov.uk. See www. leics.gov.uk/country_parks_volunteering

6th May

Ashby Royal British Legion – branch Meeting at 7pm followed by an illustrated talk about the history of the National Arboretum, starting around 8pm. Members of the public are

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Bradgate Flower Club – “Back to the Future”. See what lies behind the creative genius of the flower arranger, special open meeting at 7.30pm. Groby Community College (off Ratby Road LE6 0GE). Visitors and guests are welcome - entry fee of £8, payable at the door. More details from Lilian Coleman Tel: 0116 236 3191.

7th to 10th May

Venture Theatre – ‘Fish out of Water’, a holiday farce by Derek Benfield. Curtain up 7.30pm, tickets available from Ashby TIC.

8th May

Friends of the Burton Wurlitzer – A concert of Theatre Organ Music at Burton Town Hall. Starts 2pm, doors open 1.30pm. This concert is free to everybody who lives in a residential home, or in warden aided accommodation and their carers’. Free car parking permits may also be available. The rest of the public are welcome but we do ask for a donation (suggested figure £4). www.friends-of-the-burtonwurlitzer.org.uk. NW Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust – A visit to Gibraltar Point Lincolnshire. Ring Jim Footitt on 01530 262 389 to book a place.

10th May

Newbold Heritage Group Exhibition – Industry in and around Newbold Coleorton from 1700’s to 2010. 10am to 4pm at Newbold School Annex, School Lane, Newbold Coleorton LE67 8PF. Plant Sale at Ashby Methodist Church 10am to 2pm. Refreshments.

11th May

Ashby Bowls Club – Bowls 4 Fun open day. 2pm at the Green, on Bath Grounds, Ashby. Please wear flat soled heelless leisure shoes while on the green. This year is the 125th year of bowling at Ashby Bowling Club. Call

Paul on 01530 417 747 or go to www.ashbybowlsclub.co.uk for further information. Calke Abbey – ‘Pop up Wedding Village’ at Calke Abbey, Ticknall, Derbyshire from 10am to 3pm. Tickets £3, see www.popupwedding village.co.uk.

12th May

Charnwood Flower Guild – 'Love is in the Air' a demonstration with flowers by Liz Bishop at the Adult School, Bridge Road, Coalville, LE67 3PW at 7.30pm. Visitors welcome, £5. Ashby History Society – A talk on "Fashion from 1930’s to the Dior new look" by Mary Tuckey at the Methodist Church Rooms, Burton Road, Ashby at 7.30pm. Visitors welcome, £2. For details contact 01530 415 654.

13th May

Ashby Civic Society - AGM followed by cheese and wine plus a talk from Chris Yeomans on Ashby’s old cattle market. 7.30pm at Legion House, South Street, Ashby. Visitors welcome £2. Refreshments available. More details from Susanne Tandy 01530 415 654. Ashby Writers’ Club – Manuscript evening: members’ own work. 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Congregational Church, Kilwardby Street, Ashby LE65 2FQ. Visitors welcome at a nominal fee of £4 per speaker meeting, £3 per comp/manuscript meeting (includes coffee or tea). Craft Club at The Beeches, 7pm to 9pm. Take your own project or join patchwork tuition. For further details contact Jilly 0789 186 1378 or email jillydutton@hotmail.co.uk.

14th May

Ashby Wine Circle – Presentation by East Midlands Air Ambulance Services. Meeting at 7.30pm Brown Court, Atkinson Road, Westfields, Ashby De La Zouch. LE65 2LZ. Hicks Lodge to Moira Furnace Walk – A 5 mile walk in the heart of the National Forest. Please take a snack and drink and wear sturdy shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather. £4 per person (includes entry to Moira Furnace). Meet 1.30pm at Hicks Lodge, Willesley Woodside, LE65 2UP. For more details contact Sallie on 0779 566 6862 or email sallie.corfield@forestry.gsi.gov.uk.

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what’s on... May continued 15th May Christian Aid Lunch – Enjoy a lunch for Christian Aid (includes homemade soup, ham and cheese ploughman’s’, ‘posh’ puddings, tea or coffee.), noon to 2.00pm, Methodist Church, Burton Road, Ashby (parking at Co-op Car Park).

16th May NW Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust – Visit to Grace Dieu Woods. Meet at 7pm in the Bulls Head Carpark, Thringstone. For more details call David Maltby on 01530 222 934 or Jim Footitt on 01530 262 389. Ashby Castle Rotary Club Festival of Hymns and Music at HolyTrinity Church, Kilwardby Street at 7.30pm. An evening of hymns, brass band music and popular songs from musicals. Hosted by Pam Rhodes from BBC's Songs of Praise. Tickets £10 from Ashby TIC and La Zouch Restaurant. Email dalewarren1982@ btinternet.com or call 0774 544 8836. Century Theatre at Snibston – Sharp wit and fun with the stand-up star of Radio 4's ‘Mark Steel's In Town’. Starts 8pm. Tickets £15. Book online or call 01530 278 444.

17th May Ashby Farmers Market – 9am to 2pm at Manor House South Street. Bringing you the finest foods from the region and specialist stalls. Free parking. Ashby Macmillian Cancer Support – Concert featuring Fiori Musicali in the Great Hall at Staunton Harold Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets £12/£20, available from Ashby TIC or fiori-musicali.com. A donation will be made to Ashby Macmillian Cancer. Century Theatre at Snibston – ‘Hats Off To Led Zeppelin’. Winners at the National Tribute Awards 2013, recreating Led Zeppelin's magical concerts. Starts 7.30pm. Tickets £16 advance, £18 on the door. Book online or call 01530 278 444. Blackfordby Village Hall – Sequence and ballroom dancing from 8pm to 11pm. Admission £3, refreshments, bar and raffle. More details from

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01283 213 481 or 01283 819 447. Spring Choral Concert at St Helen’s Church, Ashby, 7pm. Featuring St. Helen’s Church and Junior Choirs, Dads and Lads, Burton Road C of E Primary School Choir, Concordia and Jessica Warrey. Tickets £5 including refreshments (children free), from concert participants or Christian Aid representatives. Car parking at Manor House School. All proceeds to Christian Aid. Further information from Sheila Neate, on 01530 414 539.

18th May Great East Midlands Bike Challenge – Riding for the Disabled Association WENLO Group. A 50 mile bike challenge with alternate 20, 6 and 1 mile courses designed for all abilities, for more details call Sarah or George on 0754 415 9948 or see www.greateast-midlands-bike-challenge.co.uk . Century Theatre at Snibston – ‘The Second Minute’. A new play by Andy Barnett. The past meets the present in this heroic and heart-breaking tale of one soldier's life in World War One. A Nottingham Playhouse rural touring production, supported by Centre Stage. Starts 7.30pm. Tickets £8 advance, £10 on the door. Tel: 01530 278 444.

21st May Ashby Spa WI - Resolution Meeting at Manor House School, South Street, 7.30pm. You don’t have to be a member to attend the meeting – there is a small charge of £3 for visitors. For further details please e-mail ashby.spa@googlemail.com.

23rd May Century Theatre at Snibston – ‘12 Years A Slave’ (15). Winner of 3 academy awards, an incredible true story of a free black man sold into slavery. Starts 7.30pm. Tickets £3.50 pay on the door. Tel: 01530 278 444.

24th and 25th May Food Gusto Food and Drink Festival – see page 98.

24th to 26th May The Sealed Knot – ‘Let the Battle Commence 1644’. A great family day out at Cattows Farm, Normanton Lane, Heather with Europes largest

Re-enactment Society and Charity. See page 67. Hicks Lodge - Butterfly walks with experts from Butterfly Conservation. Open to anyone to attend. Meet at 10am at the café, bookings not necessary. Full day field trips with a scheduled lunchtime break. For more details call 01530 274 533 or visit www.forestry.gov.uk/hickslodge.

27th May Ashby U3A – Alan Hopkin talks on ‘The history of the Orchestra and its instruments.’ Congregational Church, Kilwardby Street, 2pm. All welcome, visitors £1. Bring friends and neighbours, meet U3A members and find out more.

28th May Ashby Film Nights – ‘Saving Mr Banks’ (PG). Stars Emma Thompson as Mary Poppins author, P.L.Travers, as she tries to resist Walt Disney’s transformation of her famous creation. The Lyric Rooms, Ashby de la Zouch. Film starts at 7.30pm, doors and bar open at 7pm. Tickets £5 available on the door. See ashbyfilmnights.wordpress.com.

31st May Ivanhoe College – 1950’s & 1960’s themed party. Live 50/60’s music from ‘Jukebox Jets’. 7.30pm to midnight, ticket price £12.50 (includes hog roast). Fully licensed bar. Tickets from Ivanhoe Reception, Ashby TIC or The Plough.

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 June 2014 issue is Friday 9th May. 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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a walk in the forest Limehouse Dam and Sharps Bottom Wood

This is a really pretty walk at this time of year with bluebells to enjoy along the way. The route takes in Limehouse Dam and part of the ancient settlement of Daniel Heyes. Those who walk with four legged friends will need to note that in places dogs need to be on lead due to livestock and a conservation area. There are also a number of stiles that may prove difficult for large dogs (our lab needed to be helped over) though anything smaller than a lab should be able to squeeze around or under. Allow around an hour and a half to complete the walk with time to enjoy the scenery.

Leaving Ashby via Burton Road, continue on over the roundabout at the end of the by-pass. Turn immediately right into Heath Lane and first left into Manchester Lane. Go down Manchester Lane towards Hartshorne, stopping in the car park by the Church Hall on the right just before the end of the lane (DE11 7ET for Sat Nav users). Turning right out of the car park, walk past the Church Hall and take the public footpath immediately alongside it to the right (1). Follow this path up and along a field edge to a stile tucked in next to the holly in the hedge ahead. Cross this stile and a further one shortly afterwards, then bear left around the edge of the next field – you will come to a newish stile on your left, ignore this and continue along the field edge until you come to the stile which is hidden in the top, left hand field corner (2). Cross over this stile to enter the wildlife site and proceed straight ahead down the hill to Limehouse Dam. This is the start of the conservation area which is home to brown hares and rare bird species – the area around Limehouse Dam itself is very pretty with a first bluebell already peeping out when I walked on the last day of March.

Go across the dam and follow the path uphill as it curves right and then left, crosses over a track, and continues straight ahead up a grassy path (quite rutted in places) alongside the conservation area. At the top of this path you will reach a metal gate. Pass through the gate (you may like to take a minute here to study the plaque for Daniel Hayes (3) which is set into the bank in front of you). Turn right immediately after the metal gate and then keep following this track for quite some way. The track takes you around the edge of the hillside and as you go along you will first pass over a stile alongside a metal gate and then, a little later, go over two wooden stiles. Stay on the track, bearing gradually left, until you see a yellow footpath arrow - this is placed on a post to the left of the track but leads over a stile on your right (4).

Cross the stile and go downhill along the field edge and across a further stile. Follow the path as it bears right and then left into Sharps Bottom Wood before crossing over a stream. As you go uphill after the stream look for a path and metal swing gate to your right (5). Pass through this gate, across a small area of young woodland, and over a wooden stile to enter a field with a pond visible ahead and to the right. Walk straight across this field – as you reach the far side there are two stiles, ignore the one to the left and look for the one straight ahead of you that has a pond on the far side of it (6). Cross this stile passing by the pond and then keeping right to follow the yellow footpath arrow onto a clear track across a field. Keep on this track as it passes over two fields (the tower of St Peter’s Church, Hartshorne will be visible in the distance). At the end of the fields ignore a path off to the right and remain on the track as it bears left and finally emerges onto Manchester Lane. Turn right and follow the pavement for about 50 yards to return to the car park.

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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ashby museum news

ue to popular demand, Peter Liddle will be giving another course of six talks - this time concentrating on The Romans in Leicestershire. The classes will run on Thursdays, from 1st May to 5th June and from 2pm to 4pm. You can book for all six for £30 or pay for individual ones at £6 a session.

attending. On 10th April, an English Heritage Members’ Exclusive Event was held at the museum, when local historian Ken Hillier described the life and times of the town and castle during the Wars of the Roses. Visits were made to St. Helen's Church and the Castle. Refreshments were provided by Patricia Clews.

A reminder that the exhibition for May and June celebrates the 125th Anniversary of Ashby Bowls Club. The museum has recently played host to three other organisations. On 1st to 3rd April, it was used by Mantle Arts of Coalville, which received support from the Heritage Lottery Fund to undertake a project focused on the life of the pioneering Edwardian parachutist, Dolly Shepherd. Ashby Museum is its partner in the project, which involves researching, creating and producing a 20 to 30 minute audio drama. Interviews to appoint a director were held at the museum, which stores the Dolly Shepherd archive. The Friends of Ashby Bath Grounds met at the Museum on 2nd April for their first AGM, and a small display of old photographs of past activities on the Bath Grounds was mounted for those

We are pleased to welcome KUDOS Education (www.kudoseducation.co.uk) on Tuesdays. Their afterschool tuition centre opened at the Museum on 29th April and runs weekly from 4pm to 7pm. Visit www.ashbydelazouchmuseum.org.uk for information about booking our Ferrers Community Room. The next Kids’ Club on Young Historians runs from 1pm to 4pm on Saturday 3rd May. Ashby Museum looks forward to welcoming old and new friends to its stand at the Moira Canal Festival on Saturday 17th and Sunday the 18th of May. Our Reminiscence Boxes are still proving to be a valuable resource for local care homes. Please get in touch with the museum if you would like to borrow one.

FRIENDS OF ASHBY MUSEUM Many thanks to all who supported our recent concert and coffee morning enabling us to raise over £300, all of which goes to help the museum. Our next coffee morning is on Wednesday May 14th, when John Loach will be speaking on his life as a ‘Rookie Cop’. On Saturday 9th August we are holding a Family WWI day at the museum with activities for children and adults plus refreshments. A date for your diary: Friday 10th October the Ian Clewes Memorial Quiz at Packington Memorial Hall. Teams of 6 needed.

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PUZZLE SOLUTIONS - CROSSWORD - SUDOKU - CODEWORD & MORE... HONEYCOMB

STEP ON IT - Slims - Slime - Slice - Slick - Click - Chick

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business directory Accountants & Payroll 57 Ashby Payroll Bureau 13 Baldwins 9 & 119 Haines Watts 32 JAWS Accountancy Services Ltd 42 RDG Accounting Aerials & Satellite 80 AB Aerials & Satellites Architects 65 A G Dezign Arts, Crafts, Gifts, Jewellery, Toys Hyde House Sewing Rooms 114 Indivijilly Wrapped 10 29 Knittiquip Souk de la Zouch 48 & 105 Watch & Clock Repairs 83 Builders Keith Armston Building Contractors 68 Business Services Lion Court Conference Centre 5 Carpenters & Joiners Ashby Oak 37 Derek Verey 12 Garden Studio Creations 10 Richard Badcock 107 S S Joinery 36 Carpets & Interiors Agadon 3 Ashby Carpets 112 Ashby Stoves 83 Botanic Blinds 8 Boundary Carpets and Floorings 20 Fairweathers Carpets 27 The Bed Shop 35 Toons 52 Wendy's Courtyard Interiors 89 Charities/Clubs/Community Groups 4th Ashby Scouts 34 Ivanhoe Social Club 16 Childcare/Nursery Smisby Day Nursery 72 Cleaning, Ironing, Laundry Services Breedon Carpet Care 75 Deanclean 17 Extreme Clean 32 Karen’s Ovengleam 24 Safeclean 21 Spotless Cleaning 54 The Bee’s Knees 73 Toni's Ironing Angels 76 Clothing Alivie Children’s Wear 75 Just for You 73 The Shoe Box 80 Country Stores/ General Stores Hallmark Tractors 84 Ivanhoe Countrystore 111 Domestic Appliances Contracool 92 Contract & Domestic Services 81 Ray Pittam Engineers 102 Driving Schools Bardon School of Motoring 112 Jo Driving 29 RDT School of Motoring 94 Electricians A & J Bartlett Ltd 97 Bright Sparks 40 D & B Electrical 45 M J Electrical Contractors 109

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Estate Agents 63 Fish 2 Let Howkins & Harrison 59 John German 43 Events/Event Services Ashby Arts Festival 15 Ashby Fake Festival 71 98/99 Food Gusto 10 French Market 17 G & M Bouncy Castles National Childbirth Trust 68 Vintage Fair 89 The Sealed Knot 67 The Ultimate Tribute Show 11 Financial Services Bleathwood 31 87 Opal Financial Management 103 Squirrel Financial Advice Ltd Florists Indigo Acre Flowers 79 Food & Groceries Ashby Farmers Market 8 Cattows Farm Shop 103 Smithards Bakery 44 Funeral Directors A E Grice Funeral Directors 89 Furniture Repairs & Restoration Ancient & Modern 81 Garden Artisan of Ashby Ltd 116 Bonington Tree Services 45 Broadleaf Landscapes 18 Charnwood Tree Services 17 Eden Tree Care 41 F G Gardens 54 Francesca Sinclair & Associates 68 GDR Landscapes 83 Green Thumb (Ashby) 91 Lush Landscape and Garden Design 67 Roughly Refined Garden Service 105 Stone Drives & Landscapes 92 The Water Gardener 102 Hair & Beauty K H Hair 47 Verity’s Nail Creations 84 Isabel’s Holistic Therapies 59 Healthcare Ashby Chiropody/Podiatry Clinic 95 Ashby Dental 65 Ashby Osteopathic Clinic 47 Bathe Safely 78 Candor Care Ltd 88 Dr Jin 40 Future Minds 21 Jan Clements 112 Juliet Brooke Chiropody 83 Leicestershire Hypnotherapy Practice 59 Prestige Nursing 81 ProPhysio Ashby 64 Silver Oaks Residential Care Home 76 Swadlincote Chiropractic Clinic 77 Traditional Acupuncture 85 Vision Express 55 IT Services Ashby Web Design 57 The PC Clinic 29 Kitchens & Bathrooms Ashby Tile & Bathrooms 2 Holmetree Kitchens 53 Provencale Kitchens 107 Tiles 4 Less 58 Victory Kitchens 62

Locksmiths Hazlewood Locksmiths 86 The Lockie 39 Motor Services A D Car Cosmetics 73 Caravan Support Services 80 28 Castle Garage (Ashby) Ltd Chips Away 93 Mobile Automotive 95 Music, Dance & Drama Ashby School of Music 97 Joseph Southgate 65 Painters & Decorators 8 Ace Decorating Holywell Painting & Decorating 97 85 John Clark Pet Services Ash Farm Boarding Kennels 45 Creature Comforts 40 Glebe Von Wood Boarding Kennels 105 Woodward Veterinary Practice 65 Plasterers A C Ellison Plastering and Tiling 97 Matt Charles Plastering Services 84 R & H Plastering 95 TCL Plastering & Property Maint. 24 Plumbers & Gas Services Adrian Dunstan Plumbing & Heating 75 Batemans Plumbing & Heating 117 CCA Gas Plumbing 54 D B Plumbing 85 Ignite Gas Services 32 James Pepper Property Solutions 39 S D Hill (Plumbers) 7 Therm Heating 76 Property Repairs & Maintenance Ashby Glass 19 Ashbyhandyman.co.uk 53 Can’t Get One 12 Cloudy 2 Clear 25 D H Phillips (Flat Roofing) 97 Handyman Maintenance 33 James Beckett 37 James Pepper Property Solutions 37 Michael Brooks Home Improvements 94 Roof Tech 95 RSJ Roofing 50 TS Roofing 24 Window Mate 47 Pubs, Restaurants & Take Aways La Spezia Pizzeria 107 La Zouch Restaurant 48 Noopin’s Thai Restaurant 37 The Blue Bell 85 The Courtyard Café 69 The Vine 115 Wong Kwei 113 Zamani's 60/61 Recruitment A & A Recruitment 21 Schools and Tuition Kudos Education 23 Manor House School 48 Slimming Services Lighter Life 108 Solicitors & Will Writers Crane & Walton 102 Martin Hall 94 Simpson Jones Solicitors 70 Sports & Fitness Breedon Priory Health Club Ltd 120 Fitness Republic 49 Fitsteps 51 Travel & Holidays Villair Travel 101

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