Birstall Post June 2010 (323)

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

JUNE 2010

Shop’s booze ban

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 323

Pic: Vinnie Campbell (left) & Brandon Smith

A BIRSTALL shop has had its licence revoked and a street drinking ban has been proposed: two measures that the Police say will reduce alcohol related antisocial behaviour in the village.

The Booze and News shop on Front street had its licence to sell alcohol revoked by Charnwood Borough Council’s licensing committee in April. Officers said they saw three youths they knew to be 17 leaving the shop, in February, with cans of lager.

The Police had called for the shop to be banned from selling alcohol on Friday and Saturday evenings, but the licensing committee decided to revoke the licence. The ban will take effect 21 days after the licence holder has been notified in writing.

The Police want to introduce a street drinking ban to cover School Lane and the playing field, parts of Sibson Road, Wanlip Lane, Whiles Lane, Wanlip Avenue, the Crossways and Lawn Avenue.

The banning order gives the Police arrest powers if offenders fail to comply with an officer’s requirement in respect of public drinking or surrender of alcohol. Offenders face a £500 fine.

Charnwood LPU’s Inspector Duncan South-

all said: “We are opting for a street drinking ban in Birstall and consideration is being given to rolling this option out to other areas, coupled with increased patrols. A large amount of antisocial behaviour is directly linked to alcohol consumption.”

The Police already confiscate alcohol from the under 18s but say they need more powers to deal with drunk-related trouble, particularly at the weekends.

Birstall Parish Council is backing the proposed ban. The proposal will be published and the public will have 28 days to comment.

A street drinking ban has been in place in Leicester city centre since 2001.

Vandals remove graffiti SEVEN YOUTHS responsible for spraying graffiti on Sibson Road in December last year have been dealt with by the Police and courts.

The culprits were caught after Birstall Beat Officer PC Richard Carruthers recorded them on CCTV then went out to arrest them, after calling for Police back up. Five were arrested immediately and a further two after the CCTV footage was reviewed.

Several shops were marked with graffiti tags during the incident and one young person was seen throwing a paint can into the road.

On April 21, two youths pleaded guilty at Leicester Youth Court to the charge of destroying or damaging property, an offence against the Criminal Damage Act 1971. One Continued on page 3

Punches into pounds PUNCHES WERE turned into pounds at a fundraising boxing extravaganza organised by Carl Gunns’ community boxing gym.

The event, staged at Birstall Social Club, was raising money for the girlfriend and newly born daughter of Stonehill teacher Mark Continued on page 3

Pics: top (l-r) Carl Gunns, European Champion Rendall Munroe & World Champion Lyndsey Scragg.

Centre (left pic): Mohamed Ali & Joe Smith, (right pic) Carl Gunns with 4 year old Tommy McCann.

Bottom: Lyndsey Scragg (left) and Cameron Brown

the birstall post JUN 2010

Woodlands

Day Nursery Exciting improvements with more to come this summer Woodlands owners have invested heavily in developing the 3+ department into a larger space for the children to enjoy and there is now CCTV operating in every room and the grounds.

Katey Lester, co-owner, says: "Parents have become increasingly worried about safeguarding issues resulting from the appalling incidents at other nurseries featured in the news recently. In response to that, and as part of our ongoing commitment to our clients, we thought that installing the cameras would help to reassure them that their children are safe, happy and having fun whilst here at Woodlands. And, rather than detracting from the warm and homely environment that is Woodlands, the team hardly notice the presence of the cameras at all but a few have fretted about how they look on the screen!"

Nursery Manager Leonie Yates

Woodlands prides itself on its high standards and excellent approach to childcare. Leonie Yates, nursery manager, says: "My team are highly qualified with the majority being level 3. We are supporting 3 team members as they undertake the Foundation Degree in Early Years and I, myself, will complete my BA in Early Years in October. I have also been selected to commence the Early Years Professional Status and will have achieved this by April 2011 - which shows that the nursery is actively working to achieve the government's expectations of having a qualified Early Years Professional, (EYP), in every childcare setting by 2015".

The nursery was inspected by Ofsted on 14/01/10. Overall the inspector awarded the nursery with a 'Good', but in the following areas we were granted the excellent grade of 'Outstanding':

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1. Effectiveness of partnerships.

2. Engagement with parents and carers.

3. Outcomes for children in the Early Years Foundation Stage.

4. The extent to which children achieve and enjoy their learning.

5. The extent to which children feel safe.

6. The extent to which children adopt healthy lifestyles.

7. The extent to which children make a positive contribution.

8. The extent to which children develop skills for the future.

Leonie says: "We were thrilled with the inspection as it clearly shows that Ofsted has recognised the high quality of our provision and we are all proud to be part of such a great achievement."

"Have we finished yet?" Katey says, "No, there's a lot more to come, so watch this space!"

THE BIRSTALL POST, JUN 2010

Pic: Andy Reed’s Presidents XV with Birstall RFC’s first team

Match boosts funds BIRSTALL RUGBY Club’s President’s Day in May helped to raise more funds for injured player Richard Engelgardt.

Besides a period of junior rugby touch training coached by the club’s professional team, there were two matches played on the pitch at Stonehill school – the big match was former MP Andy Reed’s President’s XV against

Birstall’s First Team.

Birstall were clear winners, 55-7, and after finishing the game the club were pleased to announce that they have so far raised a total of £2500 for the Richard Engelgardt fund.

Charity head shave DRINKING AT the Earl of Stamford doesn’t usually result in hair loss, but it did for one regular who decided to shave off his hair and beard for charity after a post match drink.

Tom Burton, a player with the Earl of Stamford football team, made the snap decision while having a pint. Mum Sandra explains: “After quickly asking and gaining permission from the landlords of the pub Dawn and Hicko, clippers were produced and donations taken. Within an hour Tom raised £405 and made his mother, grandmother and other family members very proud!”

Gala summer fun Sports items stolen BIRSTALL GALA, the annual summer fixture attended by thousands of people, will be held this year on the weekend June 26/27.

This popular event, organised by Birstall Parish Council, will be held on the School Lane playing fields.

On Saturday June 26 from 12noon until 10pm there will be live music from steel drum bands, Stonehill School band and a variety of local bands.

On Sunday, the event starts at 10am with the gala opened by Charnwood’s New Mayor Jill Vincent. Attractions include four swing and jazz bands, an Elton John tribute band, Leicestershire Arts Birstall Brass Ensemble, a boxing display by Carl Gunns’ gym and dozens of charity and private stalls. A funfair will be on site for both days.

The Birstall Citizen of the Year award will be presented and at 7.15pm on the Sunday the Proms in the Park concert will start with the ever popular Hathern Band and singer Jenny Saunders who made her first appearance at the gala last year.

The concert will conclude at 10pm with a firework finale.

It’s not too late to book a stall at the gala – contact Sue Coulson on 2676191 or download a form from

Vandals continued from page 1 was sentenced to an Attendance Centre Order for 12 hours and the other was given a four month referral order.

Three of the culprits were dealt with by way of Restorative Justice: they wrote letters of apology and cleaned up graffiti in the village. Two others were given final warnings and referred to the Youth Offending Service.

The person who threw the can was made to pick up litter around the village while under supervision.

Boxing continued from page 1 Elkington who was killed in a motorcycle accident last year.

Hundreds of people turned out to watch boxing exhibitions featuring members of Carl’s gym and boxers from clubs in Braunstone and Belgrave. World Super Featherweight title holder Lyndsey Scragg and European Super Bantamweight champion Rendall Munroe also took to the ring.

An auction of boxing memorabilia conducted by snooker player Willie Thorne helped to boost the funds, with a total of £1175 raised on the day.

Mark Elkington’s girlfriend of nine years, Sam Shilton, had hoped to attend the event, but was recuperating in hospital after giving birth to their daughter, Markeira. Mark’s father Richard and many of the young people who Mark had made such a positive impression on at school were there to show their support.

Carl Gunns said: “It was a fantastic day, the kids really enjoyed it and their parents did as well. It was all those who took part who made it such a success. The boys and girls from my gym were great – the ring girls did a really good job and timekeeper Zoe Jones kept her concentration and kept good time.”

Pic: Tom Burton with the landlords of the Earl of Stamford, Dawn and Hicko, and inset, Tom before the shave The shave-off came the day before the funeral of Tom’s grandfather, Eric Stretton, who used to go and watch Tom play football for the Earl of Stamford and Birstall United.

Sandra said: “On the death of my father I asked Tom if he would shave his beard and cut his hair as a mark of respect to his Grandad. He said he would shave his beard but not cut his hair and I was resigned to this

POLICE INVESTIGATING shed burglary in the village are appealing to anyone who has been offered distinctive sports equipment to get in contact with them.

The door to a lean-to shed in Stonehill Avenue was forced between 7pm on Tuesday April 27 and 6.30am the following day. Several items of valuable sports equipment were stolen. These were a £500 GT Agressor 2 black and white, 27-geared mountain bike; a £350 O’Shea surfboard with a ‘Fat Boy’ sticker, a £470 Burton Custom AX snowboard; a set of £75 Halfords bike wheels, and a £165 set of snowboarding shoes.

compromise.”

The family were delighted that the hair and the beard have gone and with the total raised for Eric’s favourite charity, the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance.

Sandra said: “My grateful thanks to landlord Dawn and Hicko and to everyone who donated to this very worthy charity.”

PC 1124 Kevin Gray, of Leicestershire Constabulary’s North Area Volume Crime Unit, said: “The items stolen in this burglary were very distinctive and unusual. We would like to hear from anyone who has been offered these items for sale, or who knows anything about the burglary.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC 1124 Kevin Gray 0116 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officers’ identification number 1124. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, which is free and anonymous on 0800 555 111.

P. MOORE

www.birstallparishcouncil.org.uk Admission to the gala is free but purchasing a programme for £1 enters you into a raffle for a big prize draw on the Sunday evening and it also lists the whole weekend’s programme. They are available now from the parish council office or can be bought on the day.

Nominations are still being sought for the Citizen of the Year Award – to nominate somebody write to the Parish Council Office stating their name and the reasons why they should receive the award. The deadline is June 14.

Deputy Parish Clerk Sue Coulson said: “Due to a few problems last year with underage drinking on the park, we are working with the Police to address this issue and ensure it does not re-occur. Stewards have been instructed to monitor this throughout the weekend and will be asking people to leave the park if they are in possession of alcohol and are deemed to be underage. Police from Charnwood Local Policing Unit will be patrolling the Gala and will assist the organisers in promoting a safe and enjoyable event.”

She added: “Due to large numbers attending last year’s amazing ‘Proms in the Park’ event, Health & Safety issues arose around people having barbeques on the field. With this in mind the Committee took the decision to ban the use of barbeques in the interest of Health & Safety, however you are more than welcome to bring your picnics, etc and there will be ample hot food outlets available throughout the whole event, so we hope this will not deter anyone from attending.”

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the birstall post JUN 2010

Parish Council notes THE ANNUAL General Meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on Monday May 10.

Cllr Stuart Jones was elected as Chairman of the Parish Council for the ensuing year and Cllr Pat Cleere was elected vice-chairman.

PC Richard Carruthers reported on the last month’s crime figures. It was reported that there was a problem with drug dealing on the corner of Wanlip Lane and Wanlip Avenue.

The Council is awaiting quotes for an extension to the CCTV system, to be located on Sibson Road and at Whiles Lane.

A resident complained about the speed of traffic on School Lane and reported that the

The July issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on July 3.

The copy deadline is June 18.

shelter on School Lane near the junction with the A6 was in a poor condition.

It was reported that the County Council have identified 44 street lights in the village that they intend to replace.

On dog fouling it was reported that not picking up after your dog on the park would result in a Fixed Penalty of £80. Should this be contested by the dog owner, they could be prosecuted and face a fine of up to £1,000.

The Council is obtaining quotations from a private company for a dog warden service.

The Council have agreed to permit Birstall Village Cricket Club to erect cricket nets on the School Lane playing field. The nets and mats will be removed after use, but the poles will be left in place.

The Council have considered the security of the Greengate Lane allotment site. It was decided that in view of the costs and lack of recent incidents, no action be taken but that the matter be considered in the light of the new precept.

The Council agreed to spend £22,775 on the resurfacing of the Estates Yard.

NHW news & crime report

Chumley’s return trip ONE OF the little ships that rescued allied soldiers from Dunkirk made a return trip to the beaches of France last month, to mark the 70th anniversary of the evacuation.

‘Chumley’, the smallest of the little ships still afloat, was skippered by proud owner John Hoskins, of Midland Window Installations, Birstall.

He said: “Being part of the flotilla is a very moving experience, Chumley is 74 years old and requires a lot of care and attention but saying that, is still capable of the trip to France and back.”

Chumley was built in 1934 by the Chrysler Machine Company of Michigan as a 26 foot, four berth motor yacht for racehorse owner Dorothy Paget. It had an 80hp petrol engine and after being shipped to England it achieved a speed of 30mph at speed trials off the Isle of Wight.

In 1936, Chumley had been converted into

a pleasure launch taking up to 12 tourists around the bay at Shanklin, the Isle of Wight.

In 1939 comedian Tommy Trinder bought the boat and accompanied by Bud Flanagan, skippered it to Dunkirk, one of the hundreds of little ships that rescued soldiers from the beaches in May 1940.

John Hoskins bought Chumley in 2000 when she was in very poor condition and spent two and a half years restoring her.

He said: “I found out that in a film Tommy Trinder made, The Foreman Goes to France’, the man he portrayed in the film, was Tom Hoskins – the same name as my grandfather.

It’s a bit spooky!”

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CUSTOMERS VISITING Goscote Nurseries in Cossington are in for a treat, as the Leicestershire based catering company, Mr Beanbags has opened a café there.

Mr Beanbags has operated cafes and restaurants in garden centres and nurseries for over 15 years, and are now expanding to join forces with Goscote Nurseries. The new café offers a warm and friendly welcome any day of the week from their enthusiastic staff and offers a varied menu for breakfasts, morning snacks, light lunches and, of course, the traditional afternoon cream tea!

Mr Beanbags’ Carl Durham said: “Goscote Nurseries is a relaxing place, with an established garden of its own and I am pleased to be opening a Mr Beanbags branch so that people can stop and enjoy the atmosphere with a cuppa and something to eat”.

The design practice based at the nursery has won another award.

Frances Dunham of Goscote Design Practice was awarded an RHS Silver Medal for a show garden at the Malvern Spring Show.

The garden had a circus theme with a central performance area and the judges praised the strong design flair and the attention to detail.

All of the plants used in the garden were supplied by Goscote Nurseries and are available to view now.

Goscote Design Practice was recently awarded an Association of Professional Landscapes award for the re-design of a garden in Swithland.

For more information contact Goscote Nurseries or Goscote Design Practice. Tel: 01509 812 121, email: sales@goscote.co.uk

League winners STONEHILL SCHOOL’S Year 9 football team secured the league championship with a 4-0 win over Humphrey Perkins.

Undefeated all season, a strong performance saw them win comfortably with goals from Kiran Patel, Joe Dolby, Tom Baird and an own goal.

We’ve recently introduced a new free service to keep you better informed. The Watch has a dedicated, local website at www.villagewatch.co.uk where we regularly post the latest news about incidents and crimes in Birstall and Wanlip.

You can also now sign up to receive the latest news directly by email as soon as it appears online. This service is completely free and we promise not to use your email address for anything else. We typically post news 2 or 3 times a month. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link at the bottom of every email.

This is not designed to replace or affect our monthly newsletter. We consistently hear from our members that they value the communication through the newsletter and these schemes are designed to add to our monthly printed news as well as this regular column in the Birstall Post.

One warning for you: as the weather starts to warm up, the opportunist thieves are out looking for windows and doors left open.

From Shreekant Raivadera, Birstall & Wanlip NHW Birstall Crime Report April 10 – May 10, 2010 Assaults 6, harassment 3, burglary 3, burglary other 8, damage 2, damage to motor vehicle 6, drugs 4, fraud 2, public order 1, theft 8, theft from motor vehicle 7, theft of motor vehicle 5, theft stores 4 There were 10 detections in the last 28 days. Three Acceptable Behaviour Contracts are in place. The ASB van continues to support Birstall on Friday and Saturday nights containing at least two beat officers and may have any Special Constables or Police Community Support Officers if available, as well as the normal levels of response resources. One licensed premise is under review. Update for the graffiti spree on December 18, 2009: three youths have been involved in cleaning up graffiti across the village, two have been charged to court and two have received final warnings. A further youth has volunteered to pick up litter after watching CCTV of himself throwing litter on the same night. Operation GLAISDALE is in place. This is an operation in order to catch perpetrators involved in theft from vehicles in beauty spot locations over the summer period. This includes Meadow Lane car parks for the Watermead Country Park. Operation FILBY has been created to cover weekends for Serious Acquisitive Crime in all areas at weekends.

From PC 2139 Richard Carruthers, PBO Birstall & Wanlip

THE BIRSTALL POST, JUN 2010

Plans to finish centre THE GREENACRES centre next to Birstall’s GCR station could finally open this summer.

The £l.7million facility, pictured above, was almost completed in July 2008 but has stood empty since then and become a target for vandals. The development stopped suddenly in 2008 after the management company set up to run it went into administration.

Owned by Leicester City Council, the facility was planned as a community art, craft and IT centre with three workshop spaces, six self contained starter business units and a cafe with terrace. The site includes parking for around 10 vehicles.

Now the City Council is inviting potential users to bid for the lease of the buildings and

has set aside £400,000 to spend on completing the site, tendering and security costs.

Cllr Patrick Kitterick, Leicester City Council Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “We will be very interested in receiving offers from parties seeking to bring these buildings into uses that will contribute to the local community. We will be looking at the potential for interested groups to bring long-term uses to the site.”

The Greenacres Centre was built with money from the European Regional Development Fund and Biffaward on the site of a former kennels.

Duck race BAGS cash THE ANNUAL duck race organised by the White Horse raised £3000 for the Birstall BAGS. Typical May Day Bank Holiday weather did not deter crowds from venturing onto the riverbank to cheer on their ducks, or from patronising the many stalls and games in the White Horse car park.

The Birstall BAGS raise money for cancer related charities. Spokeswoman Emma Shaw said: “We’d like to say a big thank you to Jenny, Ady, James and Charlotte at the White Horse for their hard work, the canoeists for their help on the day, Myles, Simon, Lynn, Krusty’s, the Classic Carpet Company, the Earl

of Stamford, Unique, J Michael’s, the ladies from Birstall Methodist Church and St James for supplying and manning the cake stall, and everyone else who helped us raise such a fantastic amount.”

The BAG ladies next event is on Sunday July 4 on Whiles Lane at 11am – their annual 3 mile run/walk around Watermead Country Park, finishing at Birstall United on Meadow Lane.

For details www.birstallbags.co.uk or 07837 028 451

Best salon DAVIES & Greenwood have been voted the best hairdressers in Leicester by the listeners of Leicester Sound.

With a salon on Sibson Road, Birstall, Davies & Greenwood were in a final three with Barrie Stephens and Whites Hair and Beauty when the team, pictured right, were awarded the top prize at an awards ceremony at Leicester’s Cinema Delux.

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Police Rugby target players burglary award THE POLICE have revealed crime figures for the year 2009/10 which show an overall reduction of five per cent for the Charnwood Local Policing Unit area, although house burglaries rose by eight per cent.

Figures for Charnwood LPU 2009/10 compared to 2008/9 Theft: down 12% Vehicle crime: down 26% All burglary, including non-dwelling: down 8% All violent crime: no change Sexual offences: down 13% Antisocial behaviour: up 4%

Birstall, Rothley, Quorn, Woodhouse, Anstey, Barrow and The Wolds have all seen a “significant reduction” in ASB say Police, as a result of “targeting locations and individuals at peak times, coupled with effective partnership work with Charnwood Borough Council and other agencies”.

Inspector Duncan Southall, Charnwood LPU Commander, said: “Maintaining these reductions and bringing in a significant, 15 per cent reduction in burglary dwelling will be the team’s primary focus for the next 12 months.

My intention is to achieve this via better intelligence gathering on those who commit burglary, allowing us to target those who offend most.”

He added: “I would strongly encourage people to continue to report ASB incidents when they occur – if we don’t know about problems, we can’t tackle them. Where you have done this we have been able to identify offenders, issue warning letters and Antisocial Behaviour Contracts which give the opportunity for people to mend their ways. For those who choose not to, we will seek legally enforceable ASB Orders (ASBOs) or Criminal ASBOs (CRASBOs). This approach has led to the LPU’s first CRASBO being applied for against a suspected offender in Birstall. We fully intend to continue to use this incremental approach as well as existing legislation to confiscate alcohol, disperse offenders and arrest for public order offences. This is coupled with preventative measures such as ASB assemblies that have been effectively run in schools by Charnwood Borough Council.

“The team here at Charnwood have worked tirelessly over the past 12 months to make the communities in which you live a safer and better place to live but this would have been impossible without your help and for that I thank you. I can assure you that we will continue to do all we can over the next 12 months to maintain and, hopefully, improve the service we give to you but we cannot do this without your help and support.”

Contact the Police with your views and concerns by email: charnwood.lpu@leicestershire.pnn.police.uk

A JUNIOR rugby player from Birstall has received an award for his dedication to the sport.

Josh Smalley (14), a Stonehill pupil, has played with Syston Rugby Club for three years and this year was presented with the Clubman of the Season award by Leicester Tigers’ player and England International Louis Deacon.

Josh said: “I was really shocked but proud to receive this award and believe I was chosen for it because of my dedication and effort throughout the season, both at training and at every match played, whatever the weather.”

Josh recently captained Stonehill school’s Year 9 rugby team in a Leicestershire schools’ tournament.

Pic: Award winner Josh Smalley with Leicester Tiger Louis Deacon

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the birstall post JUN 2010

YOUR SAY...

The Birstall Post welcomes your views and opinions on any subject. Letters, which must include your name and address, (though not necessarily for publication) can be posted to: The Birstall Post, Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH, or handed in at Birstall library or email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk

Meadow Lane In the April edition of Birstall Post under Parish Council Notes it states that a resident raised concerns about the appalling condition of the ditches along Meadow Lane. Cllr Tony Fowler said that Birstall Parish were not responsible.

He is wrong on two counts and I suggest he makes himself aware of the law covering ‘Riparian Water Rights and Duties in England and Wales’.

The Environment Agency lists many points relating to water courses.

1. Ownership of adjoining land extends up to the centre of the water course. The Parish Council have taken steps to own Meadow Lane allotment site and therefore own up to the centre of the ditch 2. Under the duties laid down they have responsibilities for many things briefly as follows: a) to allow the flow of water without obstruction or pollution

b) to maintain the bed and banks of any water course and to clear any debris whether natural (weeds etc) or man-made c) to keep the bed and banks clear of anything that could cause any obstruction d) to keep culverts, screens, weirs clear e) to be responsible for protection of your land from flooding (allotments) Another point that should be remembered is that Birstall Council groundstaff set the precedent to maintain the ditch some 45 years ago, when Birstall Council started to charge rent for Meadow Lane allotments, when they in fact did not have title to the land. The groundstaff cleared the land at least three times per year until 2/3 years ago under the instructions of the clerk at the time.

The precedent still holds good.

The Environment Agency, based at Rothley, will be only too pleased to explain the situation to Cllr Fowler.

Dave Cherry Member Birstall Allotment Society Leics Allotment & Leisure Gardeners Association

Day of Talents On Saturday June 19 St James Parish Church will be a hive of activity to raise funds for three children’s charities. The day begins at 9am with a short act of worship then Andy White follows with some organ music. During the morning there’ll be sessions of instrumental & vocal music, the St James Handbell Players, readings and some members of the 663 Ensemble are playing at 1pm. In the afternoon there will be more vocal, piano and organ music by David Bark and Cynthia Coltman, piano duo, who will also be joined by Glenis Sismey for some piano trios and by David’s pupils.

You are warmly invited to drop in at any time during the day, refreshments will be available and there will be various displays to look at. Donations will be gratefully accepted and you may also like to put in a bid for one or more of the 50-plus items offered for the Silent Auction which is running alongside the Day of Talents.

Cynthia Coltman

Lovely food Do Birstall villagers know of the lovely

food served in the restaurant at The Earl of Stamford. We often have lunch there, but recently went for an early evening meal and the food was excellent and good value for money, it is a shame that is not patronised more, as with everything in the village, if we don’t use it we shall lose it.

Arthur and Bettie Harrison

Thanks I am writing to thank the residents of Oakfield Avenue, Birstall who kindly donated to my annual door to door collection for the charity for young disabled people SCOPE. A total of £80 was collected, the most we have ever raised.

Once again many thanks to the people who gave so generously.

Dennis Marshall

Birstall Pool To all of Birstall and Hallam Fields Just to let you know that if you went swimming at Soar Valley Leisure Centre it will cost you £2.90 for an adult.

If you go to Birstall Longslade Swimming Pool it will cost you £2.70 for an adult. If you join Friends of Birstall Swimming Club it will cost you £2 for an adult for the first session. Come and give Birstall Swimming Pool a try.

Lesley Moore

Thanks I would like to thank everybody who kindly contributed to the annual Lifeboat collection on Saturday April 24 in Birstall.

I did my usual ‘stint’ outside Somerfield and had a really good time collecting £330.81 for this very worthwhile cause.

One of the most pleasurable parts of the day, as well as raising much needed funds, was the opportunity to meet so many lovely (and generous) people. Conversations ranged from how the Tigers and City were going to get on that afternoon (both had very important matches with ‘play-off’ hopes at stake), memories of Shirley Scott (my father-in-law) who passed away some years ago, Birstall Choral Society (of which I was the accompanist for many years), and lots more besides (including lifeboats!)

As always, I would like so say a massive ‘Thank You’ to the Duty Manager at Somerfield for allowing me to stand outside the shop with my collecting bucket.

Thanks also to the local collection organisers, especially John and Sheila Harrison and Jane Scott who work tirelessly to keep this charity at the forefront of people’s minds.

Well done too to all the other collectors who freely gave of their time in Birstall and throughout Leicestershire.

See you again next year!

Simon Murphy

Got the hump I would like to comment on the road humps on Birstall Road.

I totally agree with the comments made in the May issue of the post.

These humps do no good to the environment, did I or did I not listen to the Government go on about how we must cut down on global warming/carbon footprint. At the end of the day we are supposed to cut down on our carbon footprint, braking and accelerating away from these humps increases the carbon footprint plus pollution, not to say the wear and tear on your vehicle.

Yet road humps are going up all over the place, these humps must hamper the ambulance service when taking injured or ill people to hospital. My uncle who is disabled cannot even come that way to my home now as the humps and bumps on the roads make him ill. In fact when he comes to visit me now he has to come the long way around, thus using more petrol.

As for car theft, well if someone steals your car they will not be at all bothered about going over the bumps at high speed, let’s face it, it is not their car to worry about.

And I will not call it joy riding, as that is a term I will never use. If it was so-called joy, then why do so many people end up in the mortuary?

The first humps went up in Birstall on Wanlip Avenue after a child was run over, but the children always played on the street anyway. What is wrong with the back gardens, we all have them in Birstall.

Birstall is getting very bad to drive around – constant road works, Stop when the red light shows is getting a way of life in Birstall.

I do know that progress has to be made but

no one thinks things through. The new traffic lights at the top of Sibson Road, has anyone tried to get through at rush hour? Deadlock from Greengate Lane to Sibson Road. I wonder how long it will be before they start digging the road up yet again to alter something the planners had overlooked. And then there is the gas/water/telephone digging the roads up. Pot holes left all over the place and the council states we have not got the money to repair all the pot holes. Then who pays for the humps? Come on planners get your act together. I am totally fed up of the humps in our village that used to be so nice.

Name & address supplied

Dog saga I have read the ongoing saga of irresponsible dog owners over the last few months with great interest for two reasons: 1. I am a responsible dog owner who picks up wherever or whenever is necessary and I address those who do not do the same either because they haven't noticed or they just don't care (thankfully in the minority).

2. My garden opens out onto Watermead park and our family constantly have to avoid the mess literally left at our back gate so I very much understand the problem.

The reason for my writing is in response to Councillor Hardington's letter in the last edition, highlighting the instances he believes people were allowing their dogs to mess without picking up. He mentioned 2 situations on the Park - one at 5am in the morning where a man is parked up and letting his dog out to do his business - I agree this is completely negligent and should be highlighted. However the other example used was of a dog playing ball in the heavy rain at 8pm in the evening. I believe this is my dog being referred to and would like to point out that we use the park in the winter precisely because it is well lit and we can see what is going on.

We cannot throw the ball so far that we cannot see what the dog is up to. I would also like to add that a dog who eats a well balanced diet regularly, who walks regularly will also defecate regularly. I can virtually set my watch by mine, and for that reason can be certain that he would have done his business on the walk to the park, which would have been disposed of correctly.

I agree for the most part with the Council-

THE BIRSTALL POST, JUN 2010

lor's letter, however please do not assume that we are all irresponsible - the sheer fact we were exercising our dog in heavy rain shows we are responsible owners and certainly do not feel picking up is 'beneath us' as was suggested.

Maybe there is call for a parks attendant or 'parky' as we used to call them when we were kids, not only to address this problem but who would also be able to address antisocial behaviour, litter, bullying, underage drinking, etc.

Anna (name & address supplied)

Thanks Last Friday morning saw the coming together of The Bright Sparks, The Simple Set, The No Ideas, The Hopefuls, Brighton Wanderers, Shamrock and Roses, Troika, Broadgate 4+2, Lucas Team and Small and Mighty.

These were all teams competing for the prestigious Keel Cup which the winners hold for one year. This year it was won by Shamrock and Roses with a score of 53½ out of 70.

The evening was deemed to be a great fun night and raised £175 for the Help the Heroes charity.

The following evening Margaret, myself and a friend went along to St Patrick’s for one of their charity race nights, we said that whatever winnings we made we would top up the £175, fortunately charities don’t rely on our success as we only won £2, £1.60, £1.70 and £1.60 all evening, however other donations arrived the following day and the final figure to be sent was £200.

A very big thank you to all who helped and supported this event.

Margaret and Daphne

Scout parade I was unaware, until recently, of the lengths that Charnwood Council goes to in protecting young people from hazards. Others in Birstall might be interested too.

For more years than most remember, Birstall Guides and Scouts have celebrated their Summer Gala day by marching from Highcliffe School to School Lane. It’s a distance of less than a mile and takes about 20 minutes. The young people are fully marshalled by leaders and assistants. We have always told the Police and they have kindly sent an officer or two to make sure that no problems arise. This year, for reasons not entirely clear, we have also had to involve Charnwood Council. They wrote to our Parade Captain setting out various options and recommendations for us to consider. This letter was copied to 39 other public officials.

Since parade details have not yet been finalised, these are obviously all people who have an input into the options suggested to us or who need to be aware of the stage our planning has reached. We are naturally grateful for such comprehensive assistance. Indeed, it makes us realise how lucky we must have been to avoid any injury or incident in previous decades.

No doubt coincidentally, we have this year been asked to pay for the privilege of a parade. I hasten to add that the charge is not from Charnwood BC, with whom we have a good relationship and from whom we receive a discretionary 20% off our rates. However, the Highway Agency is likely to make a charge – we have not yet been able to ascertain how much – for road closure signs. This despite our assurances that we do not want or need a road to be closed any more than it would be closed for a group of slow pedal cyclists riding two abreast.

Since we are a charity and our Gala is a fund raising event, we have not (at time of writing) decided whether to parade. In case your readers are not alerted to our Gala by the sound or sight of a parade, could I ask them to put an entry in their diary for Saturday 5 June, 2.15pm, School Lane.

Keith Torrance Scout Group Chairman

Problem moved So everyone is patting themselves on their backs because they’ve cleared the streets of ASB. Well, let me say all you’ve done is moved these yobs on to other areas. Our service road on Gwendolin Avenue is regularly visited by youths drinking, taking drugs, and causing damage and breaking in. The residents don’t report anything because there is no response from the authorities, so figures will go down. The evidence of cheap vodka and lager can be found especially on Fridays.

Is this the day these kids get pocket money?

Or is it when the local shops will sell to schoolkids? These kids were not around six months ago the time you moved them from other areas.

Ian Williamson

Noticeboard all details printed free Birstall Gala Sat/Sun June 26/27 On Sat from 12noon until 10pm there will be live music from steel drum bands, Stonehill School band and a variety of local bands.

On Sunday, the event starts at 10am Attractions include four swing and jazz bands, an Elton John tribute band, Leicestershire Arts Birstall Brass Ensemble, a boxing display by Carl Gunns’ gym and dozens of charity and private stalls. A funfair will be on site for both days.

7.15pm on the Sunday the Proms in the Park concert will start with the ever popular Hathern Band and singer Jenny Saunders.

The concert will conclude at 10pm with a firework finale.

•••

A Summer Concert

by The Ratcliffe Chorale at Wanlip Parish Church on Saturday July 10 at 6.30pm Refreshments Tickets £5 Bring a Picnic Tea & Coffee available from 4pm ••• Swithland St Leonard’s CE Primary School PTA will hold their annual

Summer Fete on the school grounds in Swithland on Sunday July 4 from 12noon-3pm Stalls to include: BBQ, vegetarian food, refreshments, mystery wine, cakes, books, bouncy castle, tombola, football competition, nail painting, raffle and many more Fun for all the family ••• Health Action Leicester for Ethiopia

Antiques Fair and Bric-aBrac Sale Bring your antiques to sell and buy the antiques on offer Valuations available for a nominal fee Raising funds for a vital new project to upgrade health centre facilities in rural Ethiopia Refreshments available throughout the day Sileby Community Centre, 41 High Street, Sileby LE12 7RX (car park access from King Street – follow signs to Sileby Station) Sunday June 13 from 12noon to 5pm Admission 50p To book a table, please call 01509 812885 ••• CLASH – Community Leicester Arthritis Self Help Volunteer urgently wanted to help with Group Administration If you have available time and experience (including IT) to support the running of this local self help group, please contact Chris Thomas on 07954584402 or email 2006clash@gmail.com

•••

Loughborough Farmers Market 2nd Wednesday of the month Devonshire Square, Loughborough Between 9am and 2.30pm Next market June 9 Featuring a wide variety of local produce including a variety of meats both cured and rare breed, sausage, bacon; fruit pies and savoury pastries; a wide range of vegetables inc organic; plants & flowers; herbs, handmade natural soaps & body care products; honey & beeswax products; chutneys, pickles, jams and preserves; wholemeal flour & muesli; eggs & cheeses; bread, cakes. And fruit juices along with seasonal products, brought to you by knowledgeable and friendly traders.

For possible stall reservations or further information, please call our Markets & Fairs Team at Charnwood Borough Council on 01509 634624 or email: market.fairs@charnwood.gov.uk. Or log on to www.charnwood.gov.uk ••• Friends of Belgrave Cemetery

Open Day Saturday June 12, 10am to 3pm Supported by the Community Service Volunteer Organisation, Action Earth and sponsored by Morrisons Supermarkets Join us and share your memories Take a look at photographs of the cemetery past and present. Purchase ‘Soldiers of Belgrave Remembered’ books Committee members will be there with Belgrave Burial records, if you have any questions or want to know if you have any ancestors laid to rest here, come along and see if we can help Complimentary refreshments will be available Belgrave Cemetery is located next to Red Hill island ••• Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council

Film Presentations ‘Coco Before Chanel’ Friday June 18 (105 mins) This remarkable story of a fashion icon has never previously been public knowledge. Hailing from the lower class in pre-First World War France, Gabrielle Chanel was revolutionary in her beliefs that women should be free to dress as they wished. Starting as a back street seamstress and part-time singer, she was quite unconventional. Thanks to her liaison with Baron Balson, she developed her flair for hat design.

She even bullied her lover, an English businessman, into setting her up in a small fashion design business. This is an unbelievable true story of rags to riches, having been nominated for a 2010 Oscar for Costume Design.

Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council will be showing this film at Thurcaston Memorial Hall.

Starting at 7.30pm, tickets cost £4, concessions £3.50. Price includes refreshments and a lucky prize draw. Advance tickets can be purchased via the parish office 0116 2367626 or at the door The next film will be shown on Friday September 10 •••

Birstall Pool Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall Selected Free Swim Sessions For U16s and over 60s Card required Please contact janehill@longslade.leics.sch.uk or go to www.longslade.leics.sch.uk for the current timetable ••• Charnwood Orchestra

Summer Concert Bruckner : Symphony 9 Mozart : Symphony 40 Saturday June 26, 7.45pm Church of St James The Greater, London Road, Leicester Tickets £8 (Concess. £6) Children 16 and under £2 Rodgers_david@hotmail.com Box Office: 07718 153117 •••

Charnwood Geodiversity An exhibition about the geology of Charnwood Forest from 575 million years ago to the present Birstall Library: June 1-21 ••• Charnwood Arts

Big Knitting Group Exhibition Every Pocket Tells a Story Charnwood Museum Granby Street, Loughborough May 1 – June 27 60 bespoke ‘pockets’ from artists all over the country ••• Haven’t got time to go to town for the last minute holiday clothes or want to update your wardrobe?

Come to St Theresa’s on Tuesday June 15 for a

Clothes Party You can browse a selection of skirts, knitwear, trousers, cardigans and tops, try then on at your leisure, enjoy a nice cup of tea or coffee

7

Also a chance to purchase some silk flowers or arrangements from Amanda Feel free to come and to as you please between the hours of 7.30-9.30pm Proceeds to Samaritans Shoe Box Appeal Pay on the door £2, or buy a ticket in advance £1.50 Tickets from Hazel 2674008, Daphne 2675721 •••

A Day of Talents & Silent Auction St James the Great Parish Church, Birstall Saturday June 19 from 9am until 5pm Refreshments available Proceeds for three children’s charities Includes handbell ringing, organ music, piano trios and the 663 Ensemble ••• National Space Centre, Leicester May 29-June 6

Back to the 70s A celebration of 35 years of the European Space Agency Includes retro arcade games: asteroids, space invaders and pac man •••

Stories from Around the World Stories and songs for children and their parents Birstall library Saturday June 12, 11-11.45am Part of this year’s Family Learning Festival ••• Riverside United under 12s 2010/11

Players Wanted We are looking for new players for next season Are you fed up of being on the bench or fancy a new challenge?

Riverside may be the team for you We aim to be competing at the top end of our Division, so if you fancy the challenge come and join our friendly bunch of lads We train at Wreake Valley College, Syston 67.30pm and most Saturdays, time to be confirmed

Continued on page 8

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Continued from page 7 All coaches are CRB checked and at least Level 1 qualified, if you are interested in playing your football at a friendly club please don’t hesitate to contact Chris Reed 07742009343 or email riversideunited1@btinternet.com or just come along •••

25 Choirs Concert in celebration of LOROS 25 years 25 Choirs will sing for 25 minutes each at Longslade Community College, Birstall Saturday June 26 2.30-9pm Tickets: £2.50 Drop in at any time – stay as long as you like Refreshments available if you would like to make it a long stay Raffle 25p Please support this local charity Thanks to all the local shops who have donated raffle prizes Volunteers needed to man the car park on the day Contact carolyn.necklen@talktalk.net ••• By kind permission of Mr & Mrs Waters At The Close, School Lane, Birstall

Scout & Guide Summer Gala Saturday June 5, 2.15pm Teas, cakes, stalls, games, barbeque Admission 20p •••

Three Gardens Open in Woodhouse Eaves for cream teas, homemade cakes, a tombola and book stall June 5 & 6, 2-6pm 41 Beacon Road, 29 Victoria Road, 10 Brook Road raising funds for St Paul’s Church, Woodhouse Eave •••

Watermead Challenge 2010 A charity 5 mile run and 3 mile run or walk In aid of Richard Engelgardt Trust fund, St John

Ambulance, local youth groups/clubs Challenge yourself, enjoy the local countryside views and fresh air Open to affiliated and non affiliated runners Measured route Get sponsorship for us or your own causes or simply enjoy the experience!

Wednesday July 14 at 7pm At Watermead Country Park, Syston, Leicester LE7 1PD (north entrance) Presented by The Rotary Club of the Wreake Valley Trust Fund Charity no.001119549 Entry details at www.wreakevalleyrotary.org.uk •••

Peer’s talk on life’s work A BARONESS who has spent her life campaigning for humanitarian causes will be speaking in Birstall this month.

Kids put on a show

Back into netball 10 week course for adults 16+ Birstall, Stonehill High School Mondays 6.30-7.30pm July 26 – September 27 £2.50 per session for more information or to book your place contact Matt on 01509 632535 •••

Faces Arts

CHILDREN FROM a Birstall drama school wowed audiences with their sell out show at Babington Theatre.

Art, Dance & Drama Summer School for children August 2-6, 10am-3pm Methodist Church Hall, Wanlip Lane, Birstall Jody 079714 23201 www.facesarts.co.uk

Pub’s best cellar A BIRSTALL pub has won a ‘best kept cellar’ award.

The Old Plough on Front Street is the area winner of the award, assessed by Punch Taverns and Heineken, and will now be put forward for the territory awards.

The pub, which has just been re-decorated, already has Cask Masque Accreditation for the quality of its beer.

Caroline Cox, the Baroness Cox of Queensbury is a cross-bench member of the House of Lords and the founder and CEO of HART, the Humanitarian Aid Relief Trust.

Born in 1937 she has had a career in nursing, as a sociology lecturer, and in 1977 became Director of the Nursing Education Research Unit at Chelsea College of the University of London.

She was made a peer in 1983 and was Deputy Speaker of the House of Lords from 1986 to 2006.

Baroness Cox’s campaign work with HART has taken her to Armenia, Burma, East Timor, India, Nigeria, southern Sudan and northern Uganda.

Baroness Cox’s talk at Birstall’s St James Church on Church Hill, is entitled ‘A light in the darkness : the privilege of making a difference’. It will take place on Wednesday June 16 at 7.30pm.

Pic: The Rt Hon.The Baroness Cox of Queensbury

70 young students from Faces Arts performed ‘Show Time’ – a mixture of drama, comedy, music and energetic street dance.

Jody Chesterton, Proprietor of Faces Arts, said: “The children are so dedicated and what they have achieved is unbelievable.

Sessions are fun, challenging and give them confidence in a relaxed environment. Their hard work has really shown in their performance – I’m so proud of them all!”

Faces Arts provides Saturday Theatre School, Summer Schools, Street Dance and Drama after School classes,

‘Shake Up’ mother and toddler group and dance parties.

This summer there will be an Art, Dance and Drama Summer School at the Methodist Church Hall from August 2-6.

For any further information please visit www.facesarts.co.uk or contact Jody Chesterton on 079714 23201

Project promotes independence A NEW project helping adults with learning disabilities become more independent has been launched in Birstall.

Charnwood Community Opportunities has officially launched the Watermead Project, based in a modernised bungalow in the grounds of Highcliffe school on Elmfield Avenue.

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The initiative is part of Leicestershire County Council’s Community Opportunities Service which aims to enable adults with learning disablilities to become more independent and integrated in their own communities through training, education, work experience, employment and leisure opportunities.

The Watermead Project opened in February and is currently open five days a week, providing a base for up to 23 users, as well as staff.

It has attracted support from Highcliffe Primary School, Age Concern in Birstall, the local library, the rangers at Watermead Park, various charity shops in the village, the Methodist Church and Birstall Parish Council.

David Sprason, Cabinet Member for Adults and Communities at Leicestershire County Council, said: “This project was born from consultation with local people about the need for a community base here in the Birstall area.

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“It will support adults with learning disabilities by encouraging and supporting their inclusion in Birstall and the surrounding area, promoting independence and choice through education, training, employment and leisure activities.”

Some early examples of the group building links within the local community in and around Birstall include: • Inviting staff and pupils from Highcliffe Primary School to join them in the creation of the project’s gardens where they expect to grow a variety of fruit and vegetables.

• Volunteers from the project will have an opportunity to work with the rangers based at Watermead Country Park.

• Birstall Library has expressed an interest in an art exhibition being held on its premises, following the success of a similar exhibition in Mountsorrel.

• Individuals from the project attend various activities run in the village hall and local Methodist Church.

• Staff at the project have approached several local businesses about the possibilities of Individuals gaining voluntary work and / or work experience.

For more information contact Steven Brownlow, community opportunities manager, on 0116 230 3112.

To find out more about Community Opportunities visit: www.leics.gov.uk/community_opportunities

THE BIRSTALL POST, JUN 2010

9

Election result

Cadets 20 mile hike TRUDGING THROUGH rivers, carrying buckets of water and tackling assault courses were just some of the highlights for three teams from 1947 (Birstall) ATC Squadron when they undertook the Charnwood Hike.

The near 20 mile course through the Leicestershire countryside is organised by the Boys Brigade every year, and this year 1947 (Birstall) Squadron ATC entered three teams for the gruelling challenge. One team showed quick thinking and determination to finish top, with a second group just behind in third.

Office in Charge Paul Vissani, said:“The weather was perfect, it remained warm and sunny throughout. Luckily some of the challenges involved splashing through rivers and streams while carrying buckets of water. This helped to keep all participants cool.

“Not only did the cadets have to crisscross through the countryside, they also had

to complete the challenges which were positioned along the way. There were many different types of challenges which the cadets had to complete; carrying each other on stretchers, completing obstacle courses while blindfolded and many other initiative exercises.

The three teams which took part showed good endurance and managed to keep a high morale throughout.”

Pic: Cadets show off their trophies, back row (l-r) Cpl Collins, Cdt Chapman, Cdt Allcock, Cdt Taylor, Cdt Thorne & Sgt Taylor Front row (l-r) Cdt Vissani & Cdt Delf

Survey of nursery food ALL THE Leicestershire nurseries that took part in a survey about the meals they provide failed to meet all of the current guidelines on food for the under fives.

The twelve nurseries in the county, none of which were in Birstall, had all volunteered to take part in a national survey as part of a two year study conducted by LACORS, part of the Local Government Association Group.

The food was analysed by Leicestershire Scientific Services and nutritionists who reported on their findings: Leicestershire Trading Standards is now encouraging parents and carers to look at the food provided at their children’s nurseries.

The report found that all of the nurseries were putting a lot of effort into providing healthy meals but that there was room for improvement.

Problems varied but in Leicestershire the analysis showed high levels of salt at all the nurseries and inappropriate portion sizes, mainly too large but sometimes too small.

A common problem was applying healthy eating principles which work for adults and older children to the under fives, despite their very different needs.

The nutritionists recommended that all nurseries reduce the reliance on packet mixes, gravy, soup, bread and processed meat to reduce salt levels. There was also a recommendation to reduce the reliance on bread at tea time and use lower salt alternatives such as jacket potatoes or pasta.

Nationally it was found that some children were not getting enough carbohydrates to give them energy because they were being given too much fruit.

The project showed that food nutritional standards were improved when childcare providers were given better information about

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A spokesman for Birstall Rainbow Nursery on Wanlip Lane, who were not part of the survey, said: “All parents will know how hard it is to get their children to try to eat or drink new things and everyone knows now, more than ever, how important it is for children to heat healthily as early as possible to stop obesity later in life. At Birstall Rainbow Nursery we have always been passionate about the importance of good, fresh and nutritional food in every single meal we cook.

“We know that nursery age children are more willing to try a wide range of foods than they will be as they get older so we introduce healthy and delicious food to them as early as possible.

Our locally sourced, homecooked meals change weekly so that our children are always trying something new and our parents always have peace of mind about what their child is eating now, and what their attitude to food will be in the future.”

David Bull, Head of Trading Standards for Leicestershire County Council, said: “Currently there are no legal controls concerning the nutritional content of food provided by children’s nurseries as there is for schools, so I am pleased with the enthusiasm shown by all the nurseries involved to engage with this project and to apply the nutritionists’ recommendations.

“Of course it is very important that the food offered by nurseries provides children with the correct amount of energy and a good balance of key nutrients and so, as a result of this work, advice and guidance has been provided to all nurseries in Leicestershire.”

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BIRSTALL’S MP, the Conservative Stephen Dorrell, was re-elected at the General Election for the Charnwood constituency.

Mr Dorrell increased his majority from 8,809 in 2005 to 15,029. He secured 49.6% of the vote, compared to 46.6% in 2005.

Labour’s vote fell by 8.9%, putting them in third place, and the Liberal Democrats’ vote rose by 3.2%. The BNP vote rose by 2.2% and the UKIP vote by 0.4%.

Charnwood 2010 Election Result Stephen Dorrell (Con) 25,560; Robin Webber-Jones (Lib Dem) 11,531; Eric Goodyer (Lab) 10,536; Cathy Duffy (BNP) 3116; Miles Storier (UKIP) 1799.

The turnout was 71.9%

Next area forum AIR YOUR views and ask questions of councillors and other service providers at your next Area Forum on June 9.

The next meeting of the Bradgate, Rothley, Mountsorrel and Birstall Area Forum will be held at Mountsorrel Primary School at 7pm.

One item for discussion at the June meeting will be the progress of the projects that were identified in March as receiving cash from the Forum’s one-off budget of £20,000.

More details: www.leicestershireforums.org

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Club’s help for heroes BIRSTALL GOLF Club members proved their generosity by raising £1,125 for Help for Heroes in the first month after the organisation was chosen as the club’s official charity for 2010.

A collection at Naz Kullar’s ‘Captain’s Dinner’ raised £540 and those attending Lady Captain Pam Hall’s ‘Ladies’ Charity Day’ raised £685 via a range of different fundraising activities.

Alan Birchenall, who spoke at the dinner, and who ran in aid of the charity when he did his thirtieth traditional end of season run ahead of Leicester City’s last home game, received the first part of the money on behalf of the charity.

He said: “I haven’t set any target for my

run, but it would be nice to raise £20,000 for such a great charity. Birstall Golf Club members have already shown great generosity in supporting it and I hope City fans will too”.

Pic: (l-r): Naz Kullar and Pam Hall hand over the Birstall donation to Help for Heroes to Alan Birchenall

The July issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on July 3.

The copy deadline is June 18.

10

the birstall post JUN 2010

Summer Pistol Stylist’s tennis shooting skydive

Cricket club

Cat injured

IT’S ALL systems go for the summer tennis season down at Birstall Watermead Tennis Club.

Two open events are being held this month in a move to attract new members from the Birstall area.

On Wednesday June 9 from 5.30-9pm there will be an Open Evening, and if you are unable to make it then, there is a follow-up event, an Open Morning on Sunday June 13 from 10am until 1pm.

For those who do not know where the club is based, it is situated at the Co-op Sports and Social Club on Birstall Road, near Red Hill Circle. A club spokesman said: “Come along and speak to members and find out what the club has to offer. There will be half-price membership on offer on both days.

“The club is active all year round and there are floodlights covering the three allweather courts, a major boost in the winter.”

There is a varied programme of social events planned throughout the year, and on Sunday June 20 the club will be holding is annual Strawberry Lunch, social tennis followed by strawberries and cream, to get into the Wimbledon mood. On Friday, July 30 the club is hosting a barbecue.

The summer men’s, women’s, veterans’ and junior league matches are already in full swing which will be followed by the mixed matches later in the summer.

The spokesman added: “As usual it looks like being a busy time at the club, so let’s see as many people as possible at the open events to share in the fun and carry on its reputation as one of the leading sports clubs in Birstall.”

A MONTH of mixed results for the 1st and 2nd teams, with a whole weekend washed out by rain.

Premier Division 1st team holders with first game away at Appleby Magna ended in a 100 run defeat, so skipper Dave Sharpe not too pleased. But two wins against Twycross and Bharat and one wash out has seen them climb the table. An impressive 105 for Andy Galpin against Twycross was the stand out score. Nice to see two ex-players Trev Colver and Ian Hunt umpiring the 1st team recently, who I’m told are probably the best and fairest umpires on the circuit.

2nd Team results – one win, one defeat and again one wash out, sees them mid-table, but more to come I’m sure. Impressive bowling from S Findley and Mick Jones shows the team’s strengths – a few more runs please.

Under 17’s had two games cancelled so their first game was against probably the strongest team in their division Thorpe Arnold of Melton away with their impressive facilities.

A 100 run defeat was hard to take at any level but they never let their heads drop, and impressive batting by Ashley Coulthard was the high point.

Under 13 A’s and B’s have had mixed starts. Under 13 A’s have had two losses but the second game at home against Syston, Birstall took them very close with decent bowling from Liam Hopkins. Another dozen runs with the bat may have got them the result they so nearly deserved. Under 13 B’s two wins and two cancelled games is a 100% start beating Cropston (cup) first game and then beating Barkby United (league) by 6 runs. Both wins with an all round good team effort. Well done coaches Kev and Jo. From S Findley

CAT OWNERS are being warned to be vigilant after a cat believed to have been caught in a trap had to have his leg amputated.

The Police have also received two reports of cats going missing in the village.

Wendy Porter’s cat went missing in April for four days before he was found, seriously injured. Wendy, of Lawn Avenue, said: “His leg was hanging off and the bone showing. I took him straight to the vet where he had to stay to have his leg removed. There were no other injuries or marks from being hit by a car or attacked by another animal, this can only leave that this was done by someone or maybe a trap.”

She added: “I am so concerned over this and think others should know and be aware.

Also, I’m really grateful to family members who helped with the vet’s bills.”

Wendy is aware of cats going missing from the Wanlip Lane area and from the Crossways in recent weeks.

Borrajo’s, the vets on Sibson Road, say they have not seen any unusual injuries to cats. Head Nurse Carrie-Anne Hunt said: “We’ve not seen any rise in the number of cats being brought in, and we haven’t heard any rumours about cats going missing.”

VISITORS CAN try pistol shooting in a safe environment at a Pistol Gala in July.

On Saturday July 3 The Redhill Revolvers, in association with the Umarex Boys Club, are holding a Pistol Gala at the Co-operative Sports and Social Club (LE4 4DE), Birstall.

The event will start at 10am and conclude at about 4pm after the presentation of awards.

Spokesman Steve Prime said: “Safety briefs and full instruction will be in place on the day for anyone who is new to the disciplines.

The main aim of the event is to promote the sport of pistol shooting and for all to have safe fun. Entry cost will be £5 which will allow you to enter all the events and we hope to have spare pistols for loan on the day.”

There will be catering at the event in the form of a snack bar.

For further information please call Steve Prime on 0116 2676114 (eve) or 0116 2676252 (office hours)

Trevor Stratford A FORMER Principal of Longslade College has died.

Mr Trevor Stratford was principal in the 80s and early 90s. He died in April of motor neurone disease at the LOROS hospice

SHAPES HAIR salon in Birstall aim to raise over £1000 for charity by jumping 15,000 feet out of a plane!

Stylists Becki Stone and Jonboy Palmer are planning the jump at the end of June for two charities which include Cystic Fibrosis Trust and also Mind, for better mental health.

Shapes are offering 10 free haircuts together with a donation for the charity. Please email: reception@shapes-salons.co.uk together with your name, address and a contact phone number.

Women’s group BIRSTALL METHODIST Women’s Group are a friendly group of ladies who welcome new members.

They meet on Monday evenings at 7.30pm in the Methodist Coffee Shop on Wanlip Lane, usually finishing around 9pm.

Spokeswoman Barbara Watson said: “We have recently enjoyed speakers on a wide variety of topics, including An Introduction to Bats, The History of the Musical, The Life and Monologues of Joyce Grenfell and Puppets and Marionettes. Quiz evenings, theatre trips and meals are also popular.

“Our nominated charities this year are ADAPT, support for parents of premature babies, and the Birstall Special Needs Playgroup and thanks go to members and friends who recently raised an amazing £511 at our

Budgens bake new loaf A NEW loaf of bread has been developed by the Master Baker at Budgens Mountsorrel.

Named after the village where it has been created the loaf uses a unique blend of organic and spelt white flour from Claybrooke Mill in Leicestershire and is combined with Swithland spring water. The dough created is fermented overnight to produce a loaf with a delicious flavour and a perfect crust, say Budgens.

Guy Coombs, General Manager at Farmer Fear’s Budgens and Master Baker is extremely excited about his new loaf. He said: “We have developed a loaf of exceptional quality by sourcing the main ingredients locally from Leicestershire. The combination of

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RN

BUILDERS EXTENSIONS ALTERATIONS & PROPERTY REPAIRS

( 2675658 Proprietor RMS Gibbon

organic and spelt flours is thought to make the bread easier to digest than the standard white sliced loaf. But most importantly the loaf is delicious. Soft inside, packed with flavour and with a proper crust.

“The loaf is priced competitively for the size and quality of the product, at £1.99, for either bloomer or farmhouse”. All of the Farmer Fear’s range of products at Budgens aim to provide “exceptional quality at the right price” and include locally produced meats, pies and cider. Further information can be found at www.farmerfear.co.uk.

The loaf is now available to buy in Farmer Fear’s Budgens Mountsorrel, on Granite Way.

PALLATT BROS. Ltd Corgi Gas Reg. Installers

Auction of Talents. Other fundraising events are held throughout the year and include coffee mornings and sales tables.”

She added: “New members are very welcome so do come and join us and share in an evening of fellowship and fun. One pound is all it costs, which includes refreshments and if you would like to become a member a small subscription is due in September.”

The programme for June is: June 5 Coffee Morning; June 7 ‘What a Wonderful World’; June 14 ‘A Scandinavian Evening’; June 21 Members’ Evening; June 28 ‘Final Fling’ – a meal at the Queen Vic in Syston

New Mayor COUNCILLOR JILL Vincent is the new Mayor of Charnwood.

She has represented the Southfields ward in Loughborough on Charnwood Borough Council for the last 15 years.

Councillor Vincent’s daughter, Emma Aronica, will be the Mayoress for the year.

Boot camp exercise class A BOOT CAMP exercise session on a Leicester park has raised £1000 for LOROS since it started in April.

The group of 40 who attend the LOROS Leicester Boot Camp on Victoria Park are of all shapes, sizes and fitness levels. They take part in an hour of exercise including jogging, ball games, stretching and jumping. A percentage of every class fee goes directly to LOROS. For more details www.leicesterbootcamp.co. uk

Visit gardens in the Elmfield/Oakfield Avenue, Fielding Road area of Birstall Birstall Methodist Church’s

GARDEN TRAIL Saturday and Sunday 12th and 13th June 2010 2.00pm – 5.30pm Adults £3.00 in advance £3.50 on the day Accompanied children free

Garden Tombola, Plant Stall, Children’s Treasure Hunt Refreshments, Ices, Raffle In aid of the Alzheimer’s Society and Church Funds Sponsored by Birstall Garden Centre

THE BIRSTALL POST, JUN 2010

AGE CONCERN Empty Pensions and Pensioners in Election Campaigns Unfortunately in the recent election campaigns all the main parties appear to have largely ignored the dilemma that many pensions are going to find themselves in. Reading the manifestos of the three main parties and noting the record of previous governments (the Labour government had more than 20 ministers in the Pensions Ministry from 19972010) it does not seen that pensions were high on their agenda. This does not appear encouraging for those who will be pensioners in the next few decades.

Several years ago British pensions, especially the final salary schemes of many private companies, were the envy of many other countries. Today the situation is very different with many final salary schemes in the private sector fast becoming just a memory. There is apparently a group of well-known companies who are planning to close yet more final salary pension schemes eg Taylor, Wimpey, Pirelli, Barclays, Morrisons, Vodaphone, Dairy Crest, Aviva and others.

Increasing longevity has played a large part in the closure of final salary pension schemes. It is said that a final salary pension scheme adds well over 20% to payroll costs.

During the election campaign the Tories promised to “reverse the effects of pension savers of the previous government’s abolition of the dividend tax credit for pension funds” but they gave no details of how and when they would do this. So we await to see if this will be a promise that is honoured.

When it comes to funding retirement it is

INFO

becoming a case of every man and woman fending for themselves as you can no longer count on most firms for good pension schemes nor on the state pension, whether earnings linked or not.

Elder Abuse Elder abuse is not a pleasant thing to highlight but necessary as unfortunately it does happen. Accordingly Age Concern has produced a new Factsheet No.78 (April 2010) – Safeguarding Older People from Abuse.

The factsheet is designed to help you if you know an older person who is being abused or who may be at risk of abuse.

Whether you know the individual involved through your role as a professional, carer, relative or friend, you have an important part to play in safeguarding them from abuse.

The information in the factsheet is aimed at raising your awareness and understanding of the issues of abuse and it covers approaches to safeguarding older people. Any form of abuse is unacceptable, no matter what justification or reason may be given for it and it is very important that older people are aware of this and they know that help is available.

The factsheet describes the situation in England. There may be differences in the legislation, guidance and procedures in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The information in the factsheet is correct for the period April 2010 – March 2011 but rules and guidance sometimes change during the year.

Cases of abuse against older people regularly come to light and many instances of abuse also go unreported. Abuse can occur in

a person’s own home or whilst they are receiving a service, for example in a hospital or care home. The abuse may be perpetrated by a friend, family member or a stranger or it might be by a professional in the course of their work with an older person.

The charity Action on Elder Abuse defines abuse as: ‘A single or repeated act or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which caused harm or distress to an older person.’ (1993) Factsheet 78 is available to be read at Birstall Library where it is with all the other published factsheets in two binders.

Factsheets Factsheets provide detailed information for those with a specific problem or advisers working directly with older people. For more information and to view the full range of factsheets available visit – www.ageuk.org.uk/information or call Age UK Advice 0800 169 65 65 to request an order form (factsheets are free) Age Concern Leicester Shire & Rutland, Lansdowne House, 113 Princess Road East, Leicester LE1 7LA. Tel:0116 2992233 Fax 0116 2992244. enquiries@ageconcernleics.com, www.ageconcernleics.com Information and Advice Service Money Matters, Welfare Benefits, Housing & Property, Residential & Nursing Care, Leisure & Social Activities, Family & Personal Matters, Your Rights, Local Services, and most other issues that affect your quality of life.

Jex Woods

shop

PLANS TO open a hot food takeaway at a new shop on Sibson Road have been refused by Charnwood.

It is the second time the owner of 121 Sibson Road, the empty shop opposite Barclays bank, has had his application refused – the first was in July last year, for a fish and chip shop.

The unit has permission for retail, office use or as a restaurant but the owner’s agent says that it is too small to make a restaurant business viable without a takeaway facility.

The second application attempted to address the reasons for refusal given in July 2009 by including reports by specialist consultants on noise, smells and increased traffic.

Charnwood Borough Council refused the application on the grounds that the proposal would result in an “unacceptable level of disturbance to nearby residents by reason of the level of activity and its associated noise from visitors and car movements.”

The Borough Council also said that there was a lack of car parking within the locality.

11

Watermead run RUNNERS AND walkers of all abilities are being invited to take part in a charity run around Watermead County Park this July.

The Rotary Club of the Wreake Valley has organised the ‘Watermead Challenge 2010’ to raise funds for the Richard Engelgardt Trust fund, St John Ambulance and youth groups and clubs local to Syston/Birstall.

Richard Engelgardt is a player with Birstall Rugby Club who became wheelchair bound after an injury when a scrum collapsed.

The run, which has been licensed by UK Athletics as an official event, has been designed to suit entrants of all abilities, with a five mile run twice around King Lear’s Lake and three times around John Merrick’s Lake and shorter three mile run/walk event.

Entrance fees are £9 for the five mile run (affiliated runners £7) and £6 for the three mile run/walk (affiliated £4).

A spokesman said: “Once you have entered you can get sponsorship for us, for your own cause or simply enjoy the experience!”

The event takes place on Wednesday July 14 at 7pm at the Park’s north entrance, near the Hope & Anchor inn. Entry forms are available at www.wreakevalleyrotary.org.uk.

Planning applications P/10/1034/2: Hannah Parade, 8 & 9 Stonehill Ave – change of use from office to café P/10/1018/2: 661 Loughborough Road – erection of 2x illuminated & 3x non-illuminated advertisements P/10/0913/2: 49 Woodgate Drive – erec-

tion of 2-storey extension to rear of dwelling P/10/0916/2: Thakrars, 222 Birstall Road – extensions and alterations to bungalow to form a 2.5 storey house and first floor extension over garage to form home office

Methodist church news Garden Trail In the afternoon of Saturday June 12/13, there are 11 gardens to visit in the Oakfield, Elmfield, and Fielding Road part of Birstall. In addition, there are three houses that have allowed the use of their front garden for various stalls (plants, tombola, cakes, and ice creams).

Teas will be served at Highcliffe School.

There is a raffle with a £50 Garden Voucher and £20 Aroma Spice Meal Voucher amongst other prizes.

The church is grateful to all those who have opened their gardens, sold passports, provided raffle prizes, and helped in many other ways.

Especially to Birstall Garden Centre for sponsoring the event.

You will need a passport to visit the gardens which can be bought for £3 from any of the following shops: Birstall Shoe Repairs, Went Road News, Kingsgate News, McColls News, Kingsgate stores, Michaels Butchers, Patricks Butchers, Birstall Garden Centre, Ruby Tuesday Restaurant, Anne-El-Maria And of course the Church Coffee Shop.

If you purchase ‘on the day’ (from any of the gardens) the cost is £3.50.

Accompanied children are free and there is a competition for the children.

Funds raised are in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society and Church Funds.

Fire At Church In the early hours of April 21, our Minister was disturbed by the phone ringing. It was the Fire Brigade ringing to say there was a fire next door (at 38 Wanlip Lane) which had spread to the side of the Methodist Church premises.

There was considerable damage to the prop-

erty at 38, from the fire, which, by all accounts, started in the garden shed of number 38.

The fire, fanned by the wind, had affected the roof, door, and window of the quiet room.

Emergency repairs were put in hand to keep the premises watertight.

It was very fortunate that the Emergency Fire Door in the quiet room did its job and kept the fire to the exterior of the building. Nevertheless the damage was considerable. New roof soffits will be needed, a new fire door, a new window, and new carpets all in the quiet room. There was some smoke damage in the roof space and some chairs will need specialist cleaning.

David Bark, the property secretary (who was in Paris at the time of the blaze) has stated that insurance should cover all of the damage. Only the quiet room remains out of use, and the coffee shop reopened the next day, affected only by a strong smell of the smoke.

Rev Alan Merritt Many friends will remember Rev Alan Merritt who was minister in Birstall for 13 years in the 1970’s. Alan now lives in Devon and still preaches as a Supernumerary Minister. Sadly his wife Marion died in 2008.

Alan will make the journey to Birstall and will be leading the services at our Church Anniversary on Sunday June 20.

Tesco Vouchers The Prte-School which meets on our premises are collecting Tesco (and other) school equipment vouchers to help provide new play equipment. If you’ve any vouchers there is a collecting box outside the concert hall (or drop them in the church letterbox).

From Tony Moore

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The birstall post 53 x 70mm £26 • 53 x 142mm £44 109 x 70mm £44 • 109 x 142mm £78

Help us in our work helping others less fortunate than ourselves

All gifts and donations gladly accepted at the ROYAL BRITISH LEGION 19 FRONT STREET • BIRSTALL

or Ring 2674817

1) Decide what size you want 2) Send us a sketch of your ad 3) We design, publish & send you the bill CALL 2674213 for an advertising rate card, or view online at www.birstallpost.co.uk The prices above exclude VAT

12

the birstall post JUN 2010

REGULAR MEETINGS NIFTY FIFTIES Tues 11.40am to 12.40pm Sileby Parish Community Centre. An exercise class designed for the active 50+ age group. Fun, sociable & very good for you. Fully qualified instructor Kate 2412646 AEROBICS & BODY CONDITIONING (RSA Qual.Instructor) Co-op Sports & Social Club Tues 6.30pm Step/Total Body Conditioning; Thurs 6.30pm Aerobics/bums & tums. Tel:Sue 077 396 36650 or try personal training in the privacy of your own home ROYAL BRITISH LEGION WHIST DRIVE Every Thur: 2.30pm Legion Club, Front St. ROYAL BRITISH LEGION WOMEN'S SECTION Meet 3rd Thursday each month, Legion Club, Front Street 8pm. New members welcome. Tel:2674817 ROYAL BRITISH LEGION BRANCH MEETING Members meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 7.30pm. Legion HQ, 19 Front St, Birstall COFFEE SHOP Tues-Sat 10-12noon, Birstall Methodist Centre BIRSTALL SOCIAL CLUB Every Tue: Seq Dancing 8-10.30pm BIRSTALL SOCIAL EVERGREEN CLUB Every Tue:2.15pm Birstall Soc Club DIANE GROSE SCHOOL OF DANCE & DRAMA Dance, Drama & Fitness Classes for Children & Adults Enq 2674775 ROYAL AIR FORCES ASSOCIATION Meet Royal British Legion, 4th Wed in every month tel:2609658 ROYAL ANTEDILUVIAN ORDER OF BUFFALOES Every Mon:8pm. The Sir Henry Pearce Lodge No.30.

Every Fri:8.30pm. The Progressive Lodge No.6565.

Meet at Birstall Social Club - all members of RAOB, GLE welcome BIRSTALL CARERS SUPPORT GROUP Welcomes all carers. Regular meetings at the St James Day Care Centre, Fridays at 2pm. (Except the last Friday in the month). For further information contact Marlene 2674714 ACORN UNDER FIVES Tel: 0116 267 2795 Toddler Group 18-36 months and younger siblings Mondays 9-10.30am & 10.3012noon. Preschool 8.30-11.30am and 12.30-3.30pm, five days per week except Friday pm in the Autumn/Spring term. Highcliffe Community Centre, Greengate Lane, Birstall LE4 3DL BIRSTALL QUILTERS Every Wed afternoon 1.30-3.30pm Birstall Methodist Church Rooms, Wanlip Lane RAINBOW CO-OPERATIVE PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP (Charity No:1045204) Co-op Sports & Social Ground, Birstall Rd. Open weekdays 9.30am -12noon, also extended care available for a small extra charge.Children from 2yrs - 5 yrs. LEA funding available for all 3+ yrs.

Our new play area provides the addition of safe outdoor fun. Enquiries tel Julie 2671828, mobile:07793630612 HIGHCLIFFE AMATEUR THEATRICAL SOCIETY (HATS) Every Wed 7-9.45pm, Greengate Hall, Highcliffe School. New members welcome. Tel: Jenny 0116 2128757 BALLET, TAP, MODERN JAZZ & MUSICAL THEATRE DANCE CLASSES Children’s Dance and Musical Theatre classes (Dance, Drama and Singing) held weekly at Birstall Methodist

The July issue of THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on July 3. The copy deadline is June 18.

Church on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. IDTA exams taken in the above subjects. For further information tel: Sharon Wood on 01509 550 923 BRIGHT HOUR Every Tuesday, 2.30pm. Birstall Methodist Centre BIRSTALL LABOUR PARTY Second Thursday 7.30pm Luther King Centre, Longslade Community College. Sec Tel: 2674293 THURCASTON EARLY LEARNING PLAYGROUP 9am-1pm, Thurcaston Memorial Hall, Anstey Lane.

Please contact Lisa Sterland on 07904 170 196 for a free prospectus BIRSTALL & WANLIP NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH Advice shop every third Saturday of the month at old Council Offices, 10 Sibson Road. Information and help on home security & NHW & postcoding of bicycles.

10am to 12 noon BIRSTALL INDEPENDENT BAPTIST CHURCH Sundays 10.45am and 6.30pm (except July/Aug) at Highcliffe School Community Centre, Greengate Lane.

For details/enquiries tel:2214883 WANLIP PRE-SCHOOL Wanlip Church Hall Mondays to Fridays 8.30-12.30, 1.30-4.30 Children from 2-5yrs, funding from 3yrs.

Ofsted Registered Tel: 2672192 BIRSTALL METHODIST PRE SCHOOL Children from 2.

Funding for 3+. Mon & Fri 12.15-3.15pm, Tues, Wed & Thur 9am-12noon. Tel 2675690 session times or Laura Freer 2671910 or Kay Hilton 2207045 BIRSTALL ST JOHN AMBULANCE COMBINED DIVISION Badgers First Aid & activities for 5-10 yr olds. Thur 6-7pm Tel: 2209188. Cadets:First Aid & activities for 10 yrs to adult. Thur 7.15-8.45pm Tel: 2106237.

Adults: Friday 7.30pm. Phone Eddie Sim on 0116 2719168, mobile 07841 448126 TEA DANCE - every Thursday, 2-4.30pm, Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Admission £1.50 contact 2303013 STARLIGHT THEATRE SCHOOL Tuition in Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz, Lyrical, Drama, Acrobatic, Greek & Modelling. Exams & Medals taken in the above. BTDA Exams are part of the National Curriculum and means they are equivalent to GCSE or A level Dance.

Details ring: 0116 2355495, Mobile 07703 472702 COMMUNITY BIBLE STUDY Thursdays, 9.45-11.30am at Birstall Methodist Centre. Peter Molesdale 2929670 BIRSTALL UNITED JUNIORS FC. Football Academy for boys and girls aged 4-6 every Sat 10.30am to noon.

All welcome. Bring appropriate clothing, shin guards and football boots.

GENTLE EXERCISE TO MUSIC CLASS Birstall Village Hall, 2-3pm every Tuesday. Open to exercise referral members and non-members. Further details ring Nita at Charnwood Borough Council on 01509 634836 SINGING SALLY’S Tuesdays Highcliffe Community Centre, Greengate Lane, 1.45-2.30pm £3 per session.

Contact Singing Sally on 01536 772545 GUNNS BOXING GYM The Reading Room, Birstall Road.

Mon-Fri & Sun Morning. Contact Carl Gunns 2671494 BIRSTALL RUGBY CLUB Training at Longslade playing fields, Wanlip Lane, Tuesdays 7.15pm, 1st team, Social & Vets Teams for the 08/09 season. Players wanted.

Tel: D Bonser 07841584206 BIRSTALL AIR TRAINING CORPS Tuesday and Thursday 7.30-9.30pm, 1947 Squadron Headquarters (in grounds of Riverside Primary School). New members aged 13 to 17 welcome. Tel:

0116 267 2868 ST JAMES CHURCH BABY & TODDLER GROUP Birstall Village Hall, Monday 1.30-3.30pm during term-time.

Contact Marion 2673817 or Elaine 2673030 CLASH Community Leicester Arthritis Self-Help Group meets on the second Wednesday of each month at Longslade College in the Luther King Centre from 79pm. Contact Christine Thomas 2200988, www.leicestershirevillages.com/birstall/clash.html CAPITAL ARTS CHILDREN’S CHOIR Children aged 6-16, meets Tuesday evenings, Loughborough Town Hall 5-6.30pm, Kathleen Shanks (Musical Director) Tel/Fax 0116 2672035. Phone or email for details: capitalarts@btconnect.com THE WAY AHEAD group for people with learning difficulties, Highcliffe Primary School, Greengate Lane, Thursdays (term time only), 7-9pm. Enquiries: Deborah 0116 2606309 or Pam 0116 2674818 or Gemma: sportygem19@hotmail.co.uk 1st BIRSTALL GIRLS’ BRIGADE Are you aged between 5 and 18 yrs? Would you like to make new friends, have fun, earn badges and go on camp? The Girls’ Brigade is an exciting Christian organisation that meets every Tuesday during term time at Birstall Methodist Church, Wanlip Lane, Birstall. From 6.30pm. For further information ring Susan Wheeler 2209318 INDOOR BOWLING: Tuesdays & Thursdays, from 10am to 12noon. Open to the public. Birstall Village Hall.

0116 2676191 FITNESS CLASSES Gentle Circuit/Body Conditioning, for all ages and abilities. A great way to keep fit.

Wednesdays 7.45pm Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall. 0116 267 0807 for further details IN B TWEENIES A parent, baby and toddler group run

by ADAPT for parents with children who have been on a neo-natal unit. The group meets every Tuesday from 10am to 12noon at Syston Community Centre, School Street. Tel: Nicky on 07771 718041 www.prembabies.co.uk. ADAPT reg charity 1080112 RED POPPY JIVE First & third Wednesdays every month at The Royal British Legion Club, 19 Front Street. Free admission from 8.15pm. Old & new rock’n’rollers welcome. You can phone 2671202 or 2673233 for more information LEICESTER WINDSURFING AND SAILBOARD CLUB at Watermead Country Park welcomes new members. For more info call Ricky Driver on 0116 2365213 or visit website www.leicestersailboardclub.co.uk FACES ARTS Thursdays, Highcliffe School, dance, drama & art. Jody_chesterton@hotmail.com or 07971423201 TICKLED SKINK Children’s singing sessions themed around habitats of the world. Exotic animals. For 2-5 yrs old & their younger siblings, Tuesday, 1.452.30pm at Pavilion, School Lane, School Lane playing field 07951853204 BIRSTALL WOMEN’S INSTITUTE Monthly meeting plus speaker and much more. New members and visitors welcome. 7.15pm Highcliffe School Community Centre, Greengate Lane

SAT 5 BIRSTALL METHODIST WOMEN’S GROUP Coffee Morning MON 7 BIRSTALL METHODIST WOMEN’S GROUP What a wonderful world WED 9 BIRSTALL FLOWER CLUB 7pm Outing to Barkby Hall THUR 10 BIRSTALL & DISTRICT LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY Wanlip Church: an evening visit. Chris Palmer. Birstall Village Hall 7.30pm MON 14 BIRSTALL METHODIST WOMEN’S GROUP A Scandinavian Evening. Dr Sue Ablett MON 21 BIRSTALL METHODIST WOMEN’S GROUP Members evening WED 23 BIRSTALL FLOWER CLUB Janine Hall. Mary, Mary. Birstall Village Hall, 7.15pm MON 28 BIRSTALL METHODIST WOMEN’S GROUP Final Fling

Index of Advertisers Care Help At Home (Egerton Lodge)............9 Children Nikki Arkley.........................................11 Birstall Rainbow Nursery.......................10 Tiny Talk Leicester...............................4 Woodlands Day Nursery.......................2 Clothes Supacare.............................................10 Computers NTL Computers....................................12 Energy Performance Certificate David Jackson......................................9 Feet Foot Medics.........................................7 Food Woodcock Farm Shop...........................4 Funeral De Montfort Memorials.........................11 Midland Co-Op Funeral.........................10 Garage Services Chips Away..........................................3 Cropston Garage..................................11 KM Vehicle Services.............................5 P Moore..............................................3 Garden Bee & The Bean...................................9 Co Arb.................................................9 Four Seasons.......................................12 Goscote Nurseries................................1 Lancaster Landscapes..........................1 J Oughton............................................7 Martin Page.........................................5 D Upton...............................................4 Hair Elizabeth Zehfewkes............................4 Health & Beauty Blue Moon Beauty Salon.......................11 Home Abacus Domestic Heating.....................5 Acorn Builders.....................................10 Birstall Alarms......................................11 Birstall Plumbing Ltd............................8

Health checks A QUALIFIED fitness instructor from Charnwood’s Active Together Team will be conducting free health checks at Birstall Library.

The health checks include measuring body fat percentage, weight, blood pressure, body composition, basal metabolic rate, muscle mass and total body water percentage.

The checks will take place on Thursdays: June 17, July 15, August 19 and September 16 between 10am and 1pm.

To take advantage of this offer book a free health check by contacting Birstall Library on 0116 305 8756

Alan Chambers.....................................4 Control Electrics Ltd.............................11 County Roofing....................................1 DA Roofing & Building..........................3 Elliott & Ball........................................5 Peter Ingham.......................................7 I-Security Services...............................9 JPM Air Conditioning.............................8 Maclean Environmental Ltd...................3 Mectric Ltd...........................................3 Simon Oates........................................1 Odd Job Man........................................4 Pallatt Bros..........................................10 Permahomes........................................11 Powerup Electrical Services..................12 Rak Tailor Home Improvements.............10 RWS Plumbing.....................................8 Soar Valley Heating..............................4 Steven Squance...................................8 Laundrette DR Launderette....................................5 Leisure Birstall Watermead Tennis Club.............7 Longslade College (Pool).....................6 Swan Inn.............................................8 Tebbatt Electronics..............................12 Mini Cab Airport Cars.........................................12 Franks Taxis........................................7 Optical Opticare..............................................1 Prospecs Eyewear................................12 Henry Smith & Hamylton......................4 Telecoms J Rigley................................................12 Tuition Pinewood Literacy................................5 Venue For Hire Midland Co-Op Sports & Social Club......9 Windows Midland Window Installations................1 Weatherlock Windows Ltd.....................8 Wilson Windows...................................3

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH Editor: Mr Jerry Jackson Editorial/Advertising (Tel & Fax)

0116 2674213

Correspondence, news etc can be handed in at: Birstall Library or to our office in the Youth Centre, Longslade College, Birstall

editor@birstallpost.co.uk

Small Ads Small ads are 25p for the first 16 words. 17-32 words: 50p. Enclosing payment, post your ad to us or hand it in (inside an envelope) at Birstall library.

Trade/business rates for small ads are 25p a word. You are liable for the trade/business rate if you are offering a service for which you are asking for payment, or if you are advertising new goods for sale.

All text will be printed bold. Box outline £1 extra.

Max 50 words. Phone numbers count as one word.

AIRPORT CARS Birstall. Airports, Seaports, Long Distance, Courier. Tel: 0777 1984806 TELEPHONE EXTENSION Sockets fitted by ex-BT engineer. Cable, BT and digital TV. Over 25 yrs experience. John 2675132 AMLI DESIGN Architectural Consultancy.

Plans drawn and submitted. Extensions, conversions, new build. David Ives B.Sc.(Hons) FBEng MCIOB 0116 2674395 / 07974807111 www.amlidesign.co.uk EARN £400-£600 per month part-time delivering and collecting catalogues 18+ Call 0116 2986894 RUNNER BEANS: seeds for cultivation 40 for £1, for bean bags etc 1000 for £2. Plants 15 for £2. Also exercise rowing machine £20 ono 0116 2921619 TO LET in Syston. 2300 sq.ft workshop & warehouse, additional offices, kitchen & 2 toilets. Good sized private yard for very secure parking. Tel: 0116 2921678/0776 4567953 to view and discuss terms PROM DRESS, dark purple, size 14 £30 ono.

0116 2674362

Tel: 0116 267 2583 Mob: 07967 191975 Buy DELL products here

UPRIGHT PIANO Chappell of London. Iron frame, overstrung, under damped. Lovely condition, tuned regularly, dark colour £200 ono. Tel: 07851 216771