the Birstall post Y O U R
C O M M U N I T Y
JULY 2011
N E W S P A P E R
www.birstallpost.co.uk
No. 336
Gardens open BIRSTALL’S ANNUAL garden trail was held in June and this year gardens on the lower Greengate estate were opened to the public. Hundreds of visitors enjoyed finding some real hidden gems and helped raise £2500 over the weekend, which was organised by Birstall Methodist Church and sponsored by Birstall Garden Centre. Half of the money raised will go to the leprosy charity ‘Promise Nepal’ and half to church funds. Continued on page 2
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Pic: Andy & Elaine White opened their garden to visitors
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THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011
Continued from page 1
The first garden trail was in 1991 and over the 21 years £63,145 has been raised, £30,108 of that has been donated to local and naPic: Rev Rachel Parkinson presents a cheque for £1250 for the Leprosy Charity tional charities ‘Promise Nepal’ to Mrs Ann Lee watched by members of the committee and and good causes. some of the garden owners
Pics: (left) Rakhee Nagar with her son Anish & above, Jill & Derek Bailey
Birstall robber gets four years A 16 YEAR old from Birstall who attempted to rob a Wanlip Lane store, with a firearm has been sentenced to four years detention. The youth, who cannot be named demanded money. He fled when the because of a court order, admitted robshopkeeper pressed a bery at Mark Convenpanic alarm, dropping a ience Store, Melton carrier bag with his finRoad, Thurmaston on gerprints on. February 16 and attemptPolice found the uned robbery at Wanlip loaded airgun dumped in Convenience Store on brambles, which had the Wanlip Lane, Birstall the defendant’s fingerprints following day. on. They also found a He admitted having Pic: the youth captured on CCTV pile of his clothing, that an air pistol on both had been set alight. occasions. Leicester Crown Court heard from his When the youth entered the Thurmasdefence counsel James House, that the ton store he was wearing a balaclava, defendant was immature, and that he pointed the gun at the shopkeeper’s had used and damaged a scooter belongchest and demanded he open the till ing to a traveller who had told him to and give him the money. pay for the £1500 repairs by committing The frightened shopkeeper handed the offences. over £100 in cash, cigarettes and vodka. References provided to the court The next morning the youth entered described the defendant, who had no the Wanlip lane store wearing a bandana previous convictions, as industrious and over his face, brandished the gun and polite. Judge Simon Hammond said the youth had committed a serious crime and sentenced him to four years’ detention.
CCTV team win award
EAGLE-EYED council staff who have helped police collar 563 suspects, prevented crime and even saved lives have been voted the best CCTV team in the country.
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Charnwood Borough Council’s CCTV operators won the prestigious CCTV User Group Operator Team of the Year Award at a recent ceremony. Birstall’s 11 CCTV cameras are all monitored by the award winning team, which was started in 2007 with one full time member of staff and one contracted operator. It now has six full time staff and the cameras are monitored around the clock, seven days a week. The majority of Charnwood’s CCTV cameras are in Loughborough. Judges praised Charnwood staff for helping police arrest suspects, calling for back up when an officer was dealing with someone resisting arrest, stopping a suspected bank card ‘skimming’ operation and potentially saving a man’s life following an apparent assault. Councillor David Snartt, Charnwood Borough Council’s Cabinet member for Neighbourhood Services and Chairman of the Charnwood Community Safety Partnership, said: “Far too often CCTV is demonised in the media for being intrusive. But the reality is these cameras, operated by highly trained and committed professionals, protect the public and Plumbing & Heating help police bring criminals to justice. Est 1968 I’m absolutely delighted for them and General Plumbing applaud the incredible work they do in keeping Charnwood safe.” Bathrooms & Tiling
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Inn well reviewed A LOCAL inn has been awarded a Certificate of Excellence by tripadvisor.co.uk, the travel review site. The Swan Inn in Mountsorrel was awarded the certificate because of the consistently high reviews it receives. David Winsor from the Swan Inn said: “We try hard to provide the best quality in food, drink and service and this accolade is real evidence that our efforts are appreciated.” One review states: “Simple but outstanding menu. Excellent atmosphere and always welcoming. Regularly changing guest ale. Don’t be put off by the view from the street, this is a hidden gem.” The Swan Inn is a 17th century grade 2 listed building with a riverside garden and is located at 10 Loughborough Road, Mountsorrel.
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THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011
Railway at war THE GREAT Central Railway’s Wartime Weekend event in June helped more than 500 children experience what it was like to be a World War II evacuee. School children from all over the county boarded steam trains at the start of the event, which attracted thousands of visitors and re-enactors in period costume from all over the country. At Birstall station visitors watched a skirmish between German forces and the French Resistance while at Rothley there was a replica of a crashed Messerschmitt fighter plane and a weapons demonstration.
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THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011
BIRSTALL RESIDENTS came out in force to make this year’s village gala a huge success. Visitors needed to dig out their hats and suncream for the first scorching day of the summer, before taking in the funfair rides, stalls and music performances on the stage. Birstall Village Cricket club’s pavilion provided a welcome thirst quenching pint. On Saturday there were performances from local bands, and on the Sunday the Hathern Band with soprano Jenny Saunders entertained with a proms in the park programme. The Birstall Citizen of the Year award was presented to Kath Grundy (80) who has worked for many years for local charities and as a councillor. She said: “This is a complete surprise, but it’s very nice to be recognised in this way.” Stuart Jones, Chairman of Birstall Parish Council said: “This gala has been great, it’s an important event for the people of Birstall, and I’m proud of them for making it such a success ” The Birstall Gala is organised by Birstall Parish Council. A gala spokesman said: “Many thanks to all those concerned with the running of the Gala, all the stallholders, bands and musicians and all the stewards and volunteers as well as our sponsors and gala programme advertisers.”
Gala heatwave Sun comes out for village event
Pics: (above) PCSO Mark Butler in the stocks, (left) the Riverside School PTA stall: Rachel Porch, Lisa Kolade, Donna Woods, Connor Goddard Woods, Jessica Porch, Ella Kolade, Adam Porch & Cara Kolade, (below) Citizen of the Year with Kath Grundy, Stuart Jones & the Mayor of Charnwood Bernard Burr, (bottom right) raising a glass is Ruth Senescall
THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011
Club’s new team BIRSTALL UNITED Juniors FC are starting an inclusive (Disability) football team and are holding two, free taster sessions on Thursdays July 7 and 14 at Meadow Lane, Birstall 6-7.30pm Mick Joinson from BUJFC said: “This inclusive team is open to males and females, from the age of 8 years up to 18 years of age, who have a learning, physical or sensory disability or special need. We would like people to come along, have fun and become a valuable team member of Birstall Utd Juniors inclusive FC. “You will be able to train every week, wear the kit and play in the County Inclusive Football League. We have the full backing of the Leicestershire and Rutland County FA and we are a charter standard club, which means you will be joining a friendly club which offers a high standard of coaching and child welfare.” To register your attendance and for more information, please contact Mick Joinson on 07989115656.
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Holiday art class A LOCAL artist is running a summer drawing and painting course for children aged 8-12 this August. Artist and illustrator Sue Faulks has over 20 years professional experience working in a range of fields from advertising to publishing, with clients including BBC Education and Thorntons. Sue said: “It’s wonderful to be able to pass on my love and knowledge of art to children and to see them develop artistically. With this course, I am aiming to inspire children on a creative journey to become young painters!” The one week course will run from August 1-5 every morning from 10-12noon at the Brownie & Guide HQ, Johnson Road, Birstall. It’s aimed at complete beginners to those who are more experienced and will teach drawing skills and how to paint in watercolours. There will be a progression in learning through the week with topics including materials and equipment, skills and techniques, colour mixing and ‘top tips’. “By the end of the week everyone should go home with finished art-
Pic: artist Sue Faulks and, inset, some artwork created by young people
work they can be proud of!” says Sue Sue has been teaching art since 2007 and is fully CRB checked. She has run a ‘Gifted and Talented’ Art Group in Riverside Primary School for upper school children, and an Art Club in Birstall Library in 2010. She also teaches private lessons from home. There are only 12 places available, as
Sue want to concentrate on a small group for maximum effect. The fee is £40 for the whole week. All materials and refreshments will be provided. To book your place on the course, contact Sue on: 0116 2205164, mob: 07984 197114, or email: suefaulks@gmail.com or via her website:suefaulksart.co.uk
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THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011
Veteran golfer wins trophy PIC COURTESY TRUST PHOTOGRAPHY
VETERAN GOLFER Eric Buckley rolled back the years as he rolled in the putts to win the Maurice Whitby Trophy at Birstall Golf Club.
Salon’s Gold standard A BIRSTALL salon is the first in Leicester to receive a PHAB Gold Standard, regarded as the Michelin stars of hairdressing. on listening to and answering client Three stylists at Shapes Hairdressing needs. on Birstall Road, owner Clare Halford, Shapes’ customer Ms Donaghy said: Jonboy Palmer and Louis Pole (pictured above), received the gold standard from “The team’s knowledge and skills are PHAB (Performance in Hair and Beauty). second to none. I believe this is because of the ongoing training that they receive The PHAB Standard was launched to within the salon. The team seem to be encourage stylists, barbers, colourists, constantly up to date on new trends therapists and nail technicians to develwhich they pass onto their customers.” op their customer care skills and focus
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At the age of 86 he won the trophy with a nett score of 67 off a 20 handicap (87-20-67). Eric, a veteran of D Day and the North Atlantic, has been a member at Birstall for almost 40 years and won a number of its major trophies in his earlier days, when he played off a handicap as low as nine. “It is a long time since I won anything, and I don’t enter many competitions now” he says, although he still plays a full round four times every week and walks all the way round. He remembers the prize winning round, especially a birdie at the 333 yard 13th hole, very well. “I have never hit the ball so well in all my life. For the birdie I hit a driver and then a seven iron and holed the putt from about 12 feet” he said. During the war Eric served in the Royal Navy in
Pic: Eric Buckley the North Atlantic and on motor torpedo boats, and spent D Day rescuing and repairing stranded or broken down landing craft, often working under fire on the beaches: “We got shelled every day at noon for three weeks and I lost some good friends”. After the war he ran a DIY shop in Melton Road, Leicester. Besides golf, he also devotes time to working for the Royal British Legion, and last year raised £7,441.24 selling poppies for their annual appeal, having raised some £5,850 the previous year.
Pavilion extension agreed by Council BIRSTALL PARISH Council is going ahead with plans to extend youth facilities on the School Lane playing fields. But the council had had to scale back its plans and put most of its scheme on hold, because of the difficulty in finding grant assistance in these economic times. At its June meeting, the council agreed to extend the pavilion in the centre of the School Lane playing field, which will double the size of the building’s meeting room. The estimated cost of the extension is £64,000. The sports pavilion was built in 2007 and cost £300,000. It contains two sets of changing rooms, an officials room, a meeting area and kitchen facilities. The building is used by young people attending the Parish Council run Youth Café, which is open on Wednesday and Friday evenings. The Youth Café has been so successful, says the Council, that there is an urgent need for an extension of the meeting area. The Council hopes to start work on the extension this autumn for completion by Christmas 2011. The council’s plans for a skate park costing £65,500 and a multi-use games area (MUGA) costing £27,500 have been put on hold until grant funding becomes available. The plans were put out to consultation last year and local
young people provided input on the facilities they would like. At their June meeting, councillors expressed their disappointment that all three projects could not be provided together and agreed that borrowing the £90-100,000 needed would not be financially prudent and would increase the Council Tax. Deputy Parish Clerk Sue Coulson said: “The Parish Council’s decision to prioritise the extension to the pavilion for the Youth Café will mean that on average an extra 40 young people can be accommodated on Wednesday and Friday nights. Add that to the 40 who use the venue now and that means that over 80 young people will be off the streets and participating in more positive and educational activities two nights a week in Birstall.” A young person who uses the café said: “without the youth café I would most definitely be on the park drinking and possibly taking drugs, it is the most positive thing in my life at the moment and has helped me at a really difficult time.” The young people are now involved in planning how they can use the new space.
THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011
Stonehill’s talented performers ACTING, SINGING, comedy and dancing skills were showcased by Stonehill pupils at the school’s talent show in June. “The pupils auditioned a few months back and we were very impressed with how talented our students are” said Drama Teacher Ann-Marie Brook, who organised the show with Helen Tebbutt. “We have some exceptionally gifted singers – so look out for them in years to come!” she added. The show was enjoyed by a packed school hall full of friends, family and pupils.
Oli Kidd-Martin sang Your Beautiful by James Blunt & inset, Zoe Cluley & Jennifer Fearn
Pic: (left) Luke Warrington plays the ukulele
Amy Collins & Megan Boyall
Shelene Boulton
Charlotte Thornton & Rhea Southerton
Comperes – Amy Cox, Ella Burandt and Shea Smith Thomas Bretherton Chloe Taylor, Lois Gold & Joe Lewin
Danni Wells
Theakstons, Black Sheep, Ruddles and guest beers
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Dancers Charlotte Boyall, Megan Boyall & Grace Jones
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THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011
Park and ride opens this month Tennis open days attract players
THE NEW Birstall Park and Ride will open on July 18.
Services will run from Birstall to Leicester at least every 15 minutes from Monday to Saturday, with the first bus departing at 7am. The standard fare will be £3 to the city centre but discounts will be available for off peak group travel. For instance, five people travelling together off-peak, the fare will be 70p each. Older people with a bus pass will be able to travel free from 9.30am to 11pm Mon-Fri and all day at the weekends and on Bank Holidays. The £5.5million scheme is a joint project of the city and county council and funded by developers Jelson and the government’s Home and Communities Agency. The terminus building on site will use
ground source heat technology to heat the building. Alistair Reid, strategic director for TWO TENNIS open days held development, culture and regeneration at be stunning smash hits. Leicester City Council, said: “The new park and ride will really make an impact Birstall Watermead on reducing congestion and pollution. Not Tennis Club attracted only will it cut down on carbon emissions, four new family memberit will turn ground heat into energy to ships, eight seniors, generate power for the terminus. This seven juniors and one demonstrates our ongoing commitment to student. Delighted treasmaking us a low carbon city.” urer Roger Bartlett said: Mark Davies of the Homes and Com“This was a fantastic munities Agency, said: “The project will result and may be about help to relieve congestion the best we have ever whilst also providing a sustain- done. Thanks to those able transport option for resiwho were able to make dents at the new housing it on the day, especially development adjacent, in our club coach, Laura which we have also invested.” The facility will be linked to Morley who stuck it out, the Enderby park and ride and despite the rain on the 1400 users a day will be needed to pay for itself. The Council had hoped to reach this target by 2016 but now says this is unlikely. Some residents fear the scheme will become a white elephant and is a ‘blot on the landscape’. One source said: “Who is going to use it? At £3 a ticket, there’s no incentive to go by bus rather than car and even if bus travel was free for all, it wouldn’t make much difference. It’s just another box ticking exercise – build a housing development and stick a park and ride next to it to satisfy the planners.” For more details of the service call 0116 3050001 or visit www.leics.gov.uk/leicester_par k_ride Pic: Pictured at the opening of
in the village last month proved to second of our open days.” The club, on Birstall Road, has three allweather floodlit courts and now has a sign to welcome existing and potential new members and ensure visiting teams find their way to matches. Pics: new members welcomed at Birstall Watermead Tennis Club.
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THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011
Wild West cowboy supper for the WI THE WI Wild West Supper took place on June 6 in the garden of Bev Blackburn on Cliffe Road. It was a beautiful evening and the cowgirls and squaws were treated to a three course cowboy supper organised by the committee. Kath’s notorious desserts were a triumph yet again. Wanted posters, bucking broncos, horseshoe pitching and line dancing provided the evening’s entertainment. The competition cup was presented to squaw Jane Glover who was voted the best dressed character of the evening. Andrea Scott won the horseshoe pitching but amusingly her prize of a tinned ‘three course meal’ included a steak and kidney pie which proved to be inappropriate as she is a vegetarian. However, it became a welcome contribution to our tinbola collection for the Methodist Church coffee morning on July 9. Some of our members donned their glad rags for a coach outing to Ascot on June 17. Photos of this outing and
Pic: Birstall & Wanlip WI at their Wild West supper
the Wild West Evening will be on our website: www.birstallandwanlipwi.wordpress.c om
Fresh flowers from new Posy Bowl FLORIST STACEY Warner is the new owner of The Posy Bowl on Sibson Road. Specialising in flowers for all occasions, Stacey wants to return the shop, which had a history of selling gifts and
garden ornaments, to a traditional florists. “I’m at the wholesalers daily so all our stock is lovely and fresh” says Stacey, who qualified as a florist four years ago Stacey has always wanted to own a shop, having started doing arrangements at home for friends and family before starting her three year college course. “I really enjoy it” she says “and I’m a bit of a perfectionist, I will spend a lot of time finishing a design so it is just right.” Flowers and floral arrangements can be provided for all occasions such as weddings, funerals, birthdays and anniversaries. Contact Stacey at the Posy Bowl, 61 Sibson Road, Birstall 0116 2676434 Pic: Florist Stacey Warner inside her shop
Our next meeting takes place on July 4 at Highcliffe School at 7.15pm when Shenai will be demonstrating silhouettes manicures and facials and
the competition will be to create a green salad for one. All welcome, as usual! From Birstall & Wanlip WI
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THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011
Fun & laughter
Abbeyfield week
BIRSTALL METHODIST Women’s Group held a coffee morning in May and raised £345.
THE THEME of this year’s annual Abbeyfield week was a generational skills swap and at Birstall’s Abbeyfield home, young and old alike were delighted to meet and enjoy each other’s company and take part in a range of activities. House Manager Jenny Fitzgerald said: “Skills were exchanged in the cake decorating room, then it was time to stretch the grey matter and meet some challenges, would it be facing your opponent over Connect 4 or the challenges of mini golf, with one red card being handed out to the one who used his walking stick instead of the plastic club!” The age range was from 93 years young Grace Jordan, shown here with the youngest who was just three weeks old, Lucy Laheen. Jenny said: “The pictures and smiles just go to show that you are never too old or young to enjoy some fun together.” Abbeyfield week was rounded off on Friday June 17 with an evening of international South African cuisine. “Both events raised much needed funds for Abbeyfield and we wish to thank all
Spokeswoman Margaret Briggs said: “We’d like to thank everyone that came – to date we have raised £1652 for Heartlink and Cystic Fibrosis.” Members enjoyed a night of fun and laughter with posh nosh and glam outfits at one of their recent meetings, singing along to old gramophone records. Meetings resume in September with a quiz on Sep 5, a being and eat supper on Sep 12, a talk on Belgrave on Sep 19 and the AGM on Sep 26.
For details contact Margaret on 2671181 or 2673674 Pics: members having fun at the posh nosh night
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Fish spa treatment A UNIQUE treatment, where hundreds of tiny fish exfoliate your feet, is being offered at a Birstall spa. The Davies and Greenwood Hair and Day Spa on Sibson Road are offering the pedicure treatment which is rapidly becoming a world-wide phenomenon. Hundreds of garra rufa fish gently suck the dead skin from your feet, leaving your skin feeling soft. Spokesman Darren Davies said: “When you immerse your feet into the warm water the curious fish instantly get to work creating a sensation that can be likened to fizzing or a gentle vibration on your feet.” He added: “Our tank is filtered and the water is thoroughly cleaned using a combination of specialist UV and biological filtration systems every 7 to 10 minutes, making the water extremely clean and safe.” Until August 31, David and Greenwood are offering a 30 minute treatment for £10, a saving of £15 off the normal price.
Victim site LEICESTERSHIRE POLICE have launched a new website aimed at victims of crime. The ‘Supporting Victims & Witnesses’ website is a one stop shop for victims and witnesses for information about support available and the process of being a witness. www.leics.police.uk/support
those who attended these events to support us” said Jenny.
Award winning author’s visit POPULAR LOCAL children’s author, Rose Impey, visited the Birstall Methodist Preschool in June.
Pic: Author Rose Impey at Birstall Methodist Pre-school
Rose started by reading to the children from her first published book ‘Rabbit’s Story’ which she told with the help of a story bag of props. She also read her latest publication called ‘Ten Little Babies’ which is an easy read book with rhyme and numbers. The final story was ‘Joe’s Café’ which won the Sheffield Children’s Book Award. One parent said “The children and the staff would like to thank Rose for taking the time to spend it with them and for sharing such magical moments”.
THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011 11
Methodist Boxing kids trophy winners church Garden Trail The Garden Trail in June took passport holders round a variety of gardens, ranging from small plots to large gardens. They were full of surprises, gardens with trees, some with climbing plants, others slabbed and paved throughout and those with winding pathways. A variety of animals were seen – even sheep with lambs were discovered. They were all a joy to behold, and the church is grateful to those who kindly opened their gardens, including the ‘extra one’ which was too late to be in the passport guide. Alas the rain on Sunday meant far fewer folk than usual turned out. Despite the cold and wet, over 30 ice creams were sold on Sunday. To all the stewards who braved the weather too – ‘thank you’ As would be expected, with the poor weather on Sunday, the overall proceeds were down. £2500 was the sum raised. That is about £1000 less than last year. Cream Teas outside, and Coffee Shop inside. Don’t miss out on a cream tea in the garden at 8 Hermitage Road on July 27 between 2.30 and 5pm. The premises will be having their annual maintenance fortnight beginning on Monday 18 July 18until Friday 29. The Church Foyer will be given a facelift (new lighting, cupboards and new colour scheme) as well us the various other odd maintenance jobs. All the work this year is being done by volunteers and the church is especially grateful to Simon Oates for his expertise on the electrical side. There will be no weekday coffee shop or Saturday coffee during the maintenance fortnight. Saturday Coffee Shop on July 2, 16 and 30 are all for church funds and on July 9 it is for Birstall and Wanlip Women’s Institute. No coffee shop on July 23. If you missed the ‘Favourite things’ display, the pictures of those who took part and their individual ‘three favourite things’ are on display in the Coffee Shop. They are likely to be removed later in July. From Tony Moore
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AN AWARDS night for young people who attend a local boxing gym saw hundreds receive a medal or a trophy. Car Gunns from Gunns’ Gym on Birstall Road said: “I thought it would be a good idea to give the kids an awards night of their own, they’ve all worked so hard they all deserve a medal.” Birstall Social Club was filled with young people, their family and friends and as well as seeing the awards presented, watched demonstrations of pad work and skipping. Pic: Jemimah Mkanza working the pads with Carl Gunns
Club needs volunteers A LOCAL swimming club is looking for new volunteers.
Birstall Swimming Club has been running for many years and has recently lost a number of voluntary staff to university and is now in danger of closing. The club is looking for voluntary swimming teachers/teaching assistants for two hours on a Tuesday or Thursday evening at Birstall Pool. Club spokeswoman Naomi Berry said: “If you already hold an ASA/STA youth level 1 or 2 teaching qualification and fancy a challenge, please get in touch. Or if you fancy learning a new skill we will work with you and help towards the cost of teaching courses.” The club caters for young people aged from 4-18 years and teaches A GROUP of young people from Birstall’s Youth Café have renon competitive strokes encouraging cently returned from a weekend camp at Willesley. stamina, new skills and enjoyment If you are interested in finding out 12 young people made the trip, sustain good behaviour of some of the more email: accompanied by youth workers, which regular users of the Youth Café who birtstallswimmingclub@hotmail.co.uk was paid for by Charnwood Borough attend the school. Council’s PAYP fund. The Youth Café is a drop-in facility for young people located within the School Lane playing field sports pavilion and run by Birstall Parish Council. It started in 2009. Deputy Parish Clerk Sue Coulson said: “Fifteen months ago this would not have even been considered, the Youth Workers would not have been able to take them to the end of the park, due to their behaviour and the risks involved for the Youth Workers. “The level of ASB and underage drinking in Birstall has dropped considerably since the Youth Café opened and this can be verified by good feedback that we get from the Police who have given superb support to the Youth Café from day one and have confirmed that Birstall is no longer a priority area for ASB. “The Parish Council working with the Youth Workers have created positive relationships between the young people, the staff, the Police and members of the community. They are actively engaged in regular sporting activities and have a desire to support the community they live in. They are actively fundraising for other groups such as the Royal British Legion and Birstall’s Playgroup for Children with Special Needs The Youth Café works in partnership with Longslade School with a two way reporting system to encourage and
Café on weekend camp
12
THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011
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
Coffee Concert Over the last forty plus years the 663 Ensemble has raised funds for many charities. However, the group is now quite small and we would welcome past members or other instrumentalists to join with us on August 20 when we are giving a Coffee Concert at St James Parish Church 10.30-12noon, proceeds for Mercy Ships and church music funds (the organ at Wanlip Church needs repairing). If you are able to help please contact me on 0116 2673558. Cynthia Coltman
Thanks Our daughter Paula Clifford was recently diagnosed with cervical cancer, after having various tests she was admitted to the Leicester Infirmary on June 8 to have a hysterectomy, thankfully the surgery was successful and she is well
on the way to recovery, and all tests have come back clear. May we through your paper express our sincerest thanks to all family and friends who have supported us and Paula through this trying time, we would also like to thank the staff at the Infirmary for taking such good care of our daughter, especially the surgeon who was flown in from Belfast to perform the operation, it is nice to know that there are so many caring people out there. We are sure Paula will be thanking you herself when she is able. Once again thank you for all the flowers, cards and words of comfort. From the grateful parents of Paula Clifford, thank you all. M & J Denningberg
Thanks Abbeyfield Birstall wish to express our gratitude for all kind donations of china. We were overwhelmed by the response, it has filled our cupboards. They came in more than useful at our recent Abbeyfield week events. Jenny Fitzgerald House Manager, Grove House, Abbeyfield, Birstall
Spend a penny As a pensioner, I need to spend a penny when I walk through the village. Although the facilities are pretty disgusting, they do at least serve a purpose. Once again they are out of use. I am informed that this is due to some ownership issue and wrangling between the Borough and Parish Council. As a resident and council tax payer, I don’t really care about any of this – I’ve paid for the facilities and until this is sorted Charnwood Borough Council should continue to provide the service. The weeds growing up the door suggest this has been going on for some time. Please get it sorted. A Godby
Drab
Bus shelter
I write regarding the Park and Ride monstrosity on the A6. Whoever decided this was a good idea really does need their head examining. The very last bit of green field in Birstall has now gone for good, and what for? Nobody will use this service and I wonder if a feasibility study was ever undertaken to assess this. Were Birstall residents consulted? It is totally ludicrous when there is an adequate bus service. This eyesore has cost millions of pounds, and to think that a further £57,000 will be wasted on a statue to front it adds insult to injury. Does some misguided fool think this will make it look better? I agree with all Carl Gunns’ comments made in last month’s Birstall Post – there are far better uses for the money. It seems those with ‘a say’ would not be satisfied until Birstall had become one complete mass of concrete. The other being the car park at the end of Sibson Road where there are hardly any shops (some of which are empty which emphasises the point) and on which there is only ever a handful of cars. If we really had to lose the last bit of grass surrounding the village, surely a leisure centre with sports and community facilities for young and old would have been a better use of the millions, rather than an oversized concrete slab? I’m sure everyone would have welcomed this and especially Carl Gunns to expand his good work. Given the size of Birstall and number of residents (paying Council Tax) there is nothing here for the community to enjoy. Even the shopping area continues to get more drab and depressing. Can’t this be brightened up with some flower displays or something to make it more attractive? It’s no wonder traders are struggling and shops are closing. Let’s face it; there is nothing aesthetically pleasing about Birstall, and no decent facilities either. Surrounding Charnwood villages seem to fare much better. Am I the only one to notice? D Jones
Can you please tell me when the shelter for the seat at the top of School Lane (Loughborough Road) is to be replaced? The seat is ideally placed for use when waiting for a bus into town, and the shelter from the weather whilst waiting was welcome. K Leigh Reid Copeland Road Regrettably, there are no plans to replace the shelter; the poles and the corrugated roof were removed last year because they were unsafe but the parish council decided not to purchase a shelter because of the cost and the high risk of vandalism or graffiti based on the experience elsewhere. All other bus shelters in the parish are the responsibility of Charnwood Borough Council. Steve Blackburn, Birstall Parish Council Clerk
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The Lord family would like to thank everyone for their generous donations to LOROS in Mike’s memory and also for their kind thoughts and sympathy. Donations have reached £1,000. The Lord Family
I am sitting here looking through my window, it is rush hour 4-6pm. There is a stream of traffic, vans, cars, lorries driving past at high speed. No I don’t live on the A6 Loughborough Road, I live on Roman Road. Sometimes during rush hour it seems like the motorway. Why has all this happened? Roman Road used to be a quiet suburban area, not any more. Our homes are devalued, and I ask myself why has all this happened and no one consulted us? As the residents of Roman Road are aware why all this has happened, it is due to keeping the people who live on Birstall Road happy. Recently I read in the Birstall Post the bumps were put there because of pets being killed. So what about our pets? I suggest the bumps are removed and replaced by traffic lights or else give us bumps as well. Name & Address supplied
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Daphne and Hazel would like to thank all those who helped and supported their coffee morning for the Samaritans Purse Shoe Box Appeal. £302.69 was raised through your support. A big Thank You from the little children who benefit from this appeal. Daphne Stephenson
THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011 13
Noticeboard all details printed free Riverside United under 13s 2011/12 Players Wanted Riverside are looking for new players for our 11 a side team and 9 a side team for next season. If you’re sick of being on the bench or just fancy a change we may be the club for you? Next season we age aiming to be challenging at the top or our Division so if you want the challenge come and join our friendly group of lads We train Thursdays at Wreake Valley College, Syston, 6-7.30pm, most Saturdays Training is aimed at improving players individually and as a team All coaches are Level 1 Qualified and CRB checked If you’re interested in playing and enjoying your football at a friendly club please don’t hesitate to contact Chris 07742009343 email riversideunited1@btinternet.com Or just come along •••
Charity Zumba night Class, games and refreshments All proceeds going to ADAPT a local charity supporting families with preterm and dependent babies Friday August 5, 7-9pm at Thurmaston Elizabeth Park Sport & Community Centre £5 on the door or £4 advance tickets from info@boogiebods.co.uk or Lyndsay at ADAPT 07847 264 382 ••• Leicester Host Lions Club
Summer Fair & Book Sale Sunday July 31 11am to 3pm In aid of Lions charities Paintings, Art sale, Tombola, Bric-a-brac Plus other stalls & entertainments Set in the grounds of West Lawn, 34 the Ridgeway, Rothley Admission £2 at the gate (children under 14 £1) •••
Woodlands Day Nursery
Summer Fete Saturday July 9 From 12noon till 4pm 1 Park Road, Birstall LE4 3AX There will be lots of stalls, bouncy castle, refreshments and food, as well as a special visit from Peppa Pig! Everybody welcome, with all funds raised going towards the nursery charity of Action Aid •••
Birstall British Legion Sat July 2: Karmel (F/V) Sat July 9: Phill Voss (award winning male vocalist) Sat July 16: Index (Group) Sat July 23: Faye (F/V) Sat July 30: Sebastian (M/V) Dancing every Sat night with live entertainment Bingo, Free Beer Raffle and not forgetting ‘Open the Box’ Every Tues night Bingo starting at 9.30pm Quiz nights Sunday July 10 & 31 starting at 9pm Acoustic night Sunday July 17 Rock & Roll nights 1st & 3rd Wednesday
Food available every Sat 12-2pm Funerals catered for ••• Saturday August 6 10am to 1pm at Birstall Methodist Church Wanlip Lane, Birstall
Table Top Sale and Coffee Morning Tables @ £10 each Contact 2672606 ••• St Theresa’s Youth Group Summer Trips A number of coach trips suitable for young people and families will be running between August 22 to 26 to Waterworld, Skegness, Drayton Manor Park and Alton Towers. Prices will include transport and for more details please ring Mark on 2203628 •••
Summer Drawing & Painting Course for Children Age 8-12 years Come & learn to paint with watercolours! A dedicated, progressive course, run by local artist & tutor Sue Faulks (Fully CFB checked) suefaulksart.co.uk Monday – Friday August 1-5, from 10 to 12noon Brownie & Guide HQ, Johnson Road, Birstall, Leicester LE4 3AT Course Fee £40 (includes all materials & refreshments) only 12 places available! Book now to avoid disappointment on: 0116 2205164. mob: 07984 197114 •••
Try a TRY4CHARITY no matter how slow give it a go in memory of Hannah Edwards Sunday September 4 South Charnwood Swimming Pool, Melton Road, Syston, Leicester LE7 1LY 400m swim : 20km bike : 5km run & Kids Aquathlon (Swim and Run) distances dependent on age All proceeds to: • Leicester Parents Group of Diabetes 70% • Friends of Chernobyl’s Children (FOCC) East Leicestershire – 20% • Wreake Runners Juniors – 10% www.try-a-tri-4-charity.co.uk •••
Open Church St Leonard’s Church, Swithland LE12 8TJ Saturday July 9 & Sunday July 10 & Saturday August 13 & Sunday August 14 from 2-4.30pm Tea, cakes and books, donations in aid of Church Funds. •••
Summer Fayre
No.34, Mrs Denis £10; 4th No. 40, Roswitha Clewes £5 ••• Birstall & Wanlip WI
Swithland Mothers’ Union Branch, St Leonard’s Church, Swithland LE12 8TJ Saturday August 6 from 10am to 11.30am Entrance £1 inc coffee, sales table, cakes, books, tombola, plants & raffle etc. Please come and bring your friends Proceeds for Mothers’ Union (Charity No.250038) •••
Birstall Methodist Church July 9, 10am to 12noon Cream teas, cakes, tombola, plants and much more •••
Coffee Concert
Riverside United
By the 663 Instrumental Ensemble and Friends on Saturday August 20, 10.30am to 12noon at St James Parish Church, Birstall Proceeds for Mercy Ships & Church Music Funds •••
under 13s (2011/12 season) Players wanted for all positions to join our friendly bunch of lads. We have 2 teams, one 11 a side team which are looking for outfield players to improve our current team and a 9 a side team which are looking for a goalkeeper and outfield players If you’re looking for a new club, fancy the challenge or want to enjoy football again, give me a call Coaches are level 1 and level 2 qualified with CRBs and first aid Training sessions are organised and aimed at building a competitive, enjoyable, winning team and to develop individual skills We play and train at Wreake Valley College, Syston If interested please call Chris 0774 2009343 Email riversideunited1btinternet.com •••
Summer Fete Sunday July 3 12noon to 3pm Swithland St Leonard’s CE Primary School Stalls include: BBQ, Strawberry Cream Scones, Raffle, Children’s Tombola, Mystery Wine, Books and Cards, Football, Bouncy Castle Come along and enjoy the fun! •••
The Fosse Co-op Camera Club We meet at St Peter’s Church Rooms West Holme Street (off Hinckley Road), Leicester Each Friday at 7.30pm We are always looking for new members and you would be very welcome to come along to any meeting. We are a very friendly club catering for both digital and film users. People of all standards are welcome. If you would like more details of the club or a copy of the programme then please contact: John Walters 0116 2992230 email johnwalters8@ntlworld.co or Mary Staps 0145 5820439 ••• St James’ Day Care Centre 200 Club June Winners: 1st No.98, Jennifer Field £25; 2nd No.73, Linda Mason £15; 3rd
Coffee Shop
Have you any unwanted knitting wool? Would you like to let us have it for our Samaritans Purse Shoebox Appeal We have ladies knitting hats and scarves to send out to the children at Christmas but are struggling for knitting wool. If you have any could you please contact Daphne on 2675721 or 07971721927. Thank you
Reprints of photos in
THE BIRSTALL POST are available: A5 £2 & A4 £5
Abbeyfield Birstall & Wanlip Offer supported Sheltered Accommodation to the over 55s Meals & 24 hour lifeline provided
Our friendly staff will be pleased to show you around and advise about any financial support you may be entitled to.
Abbeyfield is affordable to all Guest stays available at £25 per night inclusive of meals For further information please contact:
Nic on 0116 2674460 or Jenny on 0116 2671523 or email f.freestone@abbeyfield.com
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14
THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011
Birstall beauty queen Miss England Judge A FORMER beauty queen from Birstall was a judge at the semifinals of Miss England 2011 in June. Dena Coleman, neé Patrick, won over are great fun and a fantastic hobby for 25 beauty titles in the 1970s including girls, even boys now as there is Mr EngMiss Coventry, Miss Beautiful Eyes and land also. But I met so many influential Miss Ansells and was a finalist in Miss people and also some of my now great UK in 1976. friends.” Dena said: “Pageants Dena’s mum was also a have changed quite a lot beauty queen, Irene from the 70s. I know now Patrick of Birstall, who that the Miss England won several titles in the pageant has banned swim 40s and 50s including wear and is now in fact Miss Lovely Legs, Leicester having a sportswear round and Thurmaston Carnival instead, which I think is Queen and also Miss Forcgreat and really up to date es Army Pin Up. with the times. We had to Following in Dena’s wear full swimsuits and footsteps, daughter Laura walk in a swimsuit parade.” Coleman, 25, won the Dena travelled all over Miss England title in 2008. the world with her compeDena said “I think it is titions and met many great great that Laura has folpeople. “I wouldn’t lowed in my footsteps, we Pic: Dena Coleman change the experience for didn’t push her into anythe world. Beauty pageants thing, we aren’t like that, but it just kind of happened and we were so thrilled for her. She had some amazing experiences from it and travelled the world. From seeing things first hand, when judging the semi finals, we are looking for a special girl to be Miss England, someone with poise, elegance and confidence. She must possess beauty inside and out.” The semi finals took place at Champney’s Springs hotel and spa in Ashby de la Zouch where 54 girls from across England were competing for one of the 14 places up for grabs in the Miss England 2011 finals, to be held in Birmingham later this month.
come out of the game was a tremendous 5 wicket haul made from up and coming junior Jack Wright. The 2nd XI has been a great feeding ground for the future 1st XI prospects of the club and there has been much evidence of this Birstall Village has had a mixed already this season. They hope to get month of results. The 1st XI has disback on track after their recent ‘record played some great form from individual breaking’ all out for 17 against Fleckplayers chipping in with ney CC. some great results over 2nd XI top batslocal rivals. They convincman – Ian Bartlett ingly beat newly promot2nd XI top bowled Hathern Old CC by 10 ers – Steve Findley wickets with opening and Sam Carnan batsmen Andy Galpin and Birstall Under 17’s Paul Snuggs scoring unare doing very well beaten 79 and 40 runs so far this season respectively. 1st XI then and are currently top had a narrow loss to of their division. Wigston Town CC, losing They had a great win in the second last over of over Barkby beating the day with Joshua Saye them by 3 wickets. scoring 54 and experiTheir bowling has Pic: Akshay Desai enced campaigner Pete always been a Sharpe bowling well with figures of strength of the team and this has re3-29 off 10 overs. Birstall 1st XI had mained the case this season. Mehul their best win of the season so far Ladha leads the bowling with 5 wickets against local rivals Woodso far and Joe Carnhouse Eaves CC. Birstall an, Jack Wright and bowled out an unconvincAkshay Desai also ing Woodhouse batting doing very well with line up for 88 runs with the ball. Jack Wright the wickets coming from is leading run scorer Joshua Saye (4 wickets) with Joe Hesketh also and Jon Gaydon (3 wickdoing well with the ets) who has been welbat. comed back to the club Home fixture after a spell with Sileby dates for your diary: Town CC. Rich Sharpe (all 1.30pm starts) bowled very tight for Sat July 2– 1st XI figures of 1-11 off 11.2 vs. Bharat Sports CC Pic: Jon Gaydon overs. Birstall got off to a Monday July 4 – solid start and chipped Under 17’s vs. Quorn (6pm start) away and the total cruising to victory in Sat July 9 – style in the 28th over 2nd XI vs, Great with Jon Gaydon smashGlen ing a creative shot for Monday July four. 11 – Under 17’s 1st XI top batsmen – vs. Barkby (6pm Dave Sharpe and Andy start) Galpin. Sat July 16 – 1st XI top bowlers – 1st XI vs. TwyPete Sharpe and Joshua cross CC Saye Sat July 23 – Birstall Village 2nd XI 2nd XI vs. Leiceshas had some interesting ter Carribean results of late. They had Monday July Pic: Mehul Ladha some great wins over 25 – Under 17’s Market Edge Taveners vs. Cropston (6pm start) CC chasing the total which was set of Sat July 30 – 2nd XI vs. Market Edge 163 runs in the 33rd over. Ian Bartlett Taveners scoring a well deserved 66 and a ‘FaCC therly’ 52 not out by Liam Grest. The Sat 2nd XI’s undefeated start to the season August 6 – came to an end against Walton-Le1st XI vs. Wolds CC with the team losing by 4 Wigston wickets. The most positive thing to Town CC Birstall Village CC has their Professional website up Bathroom Fitting and runPic: Peter Sharpe ning which • Traditional Bathrooms provides information on fixtures, results, • Modern Wet Rooms contact information for club members, • Easy Access Bathrooms player profile information and up to date news pieces. Login and become a member to be able to join our blog section! All club members and interested non members welcome. All work guaranteed www.birstallvillagecc.co.uk We are a local business From Joshua Saye Call Phil 0116 2207835 Mob: 0794 193 0704
Cricket Corner
THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011 15
Birstall: gateway to the GCR NHW news & crime report
ONE OF the county’s premier tourist attractions, the Great Central Railway (GCR), has a station in Birstall. Brian Rowe, the Duty Station Master at Birstall’s Leicester North station explains:
Join us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter We have now set up a page and a group on the popular community website, Facebook, and have a new First of all I would like to thank the page on the micro-blogging website, editor for giving me the opportunity to Twitter. contribute to the paper this month, on You can find us on Facebook by behalf of your local GCR station. searching for ‘Birstall and Wanlip Perhaps the best way to commence Neighbourhood Watch’. If you “like” would be to explain where we are, who our page then you’ll get the latest we are, what we are doing in your area, news on your own Facebook wall and and what we eventually hope to achieve you can ask to join our group. Our (believe it or not, there are many of you group is ‘closed’, which means you can only join by invitation – which we who are unaware of our existence) Many of those of you who are of a hope will keep it relevant to our area. ‘certain age’ will remember Belgrave & On Twitter, we are @birstallwatch. Birstall Station. Unfortunately although These websites are designed to the preserved GCR dates from 1969 it build communities and improve comwas to take roughly twenty years before munication around common interenough finance could be fount to extend ests—which is ideal for to Birstall, and by that time the existing Neighbourhood Watch! station was in such a sorry state, owing Our main local website will contin- to vandalism that the decision was taken ue to be www.villagewatch.co.uk and to re-build (in some ways a disappointthe latest news will be available in all ing decision, as the present station is three places at the same time. You can the 'odd one out', so to speak.) even sign up to receive the latest news We are situated at "The Sidings" just directly by email as soon as it appears off Thurcaston Road, and we like to be online. This service is completely free looked on as your local "Gateway" to all and we promise not to use your email that goes on, throughout the year, on the GCR. address for anything else. We typically Eventually, the intention is to compost news 2 or 3 times a month. You plete the ‘Double Tracking’ that now can unsubscribe at any time by clickreaches as far as Rothley, and to extend ing on the unsubscribe link at the our small ‘UP’ Platform, Platform1, bottom of every email. further along the embankment, to bring This is not designed to replace or it closer to our Platform 2, with regard affect our monthly newsletter. We to length. consistently hear from our members Eventually, the GCR's intention is to that they value the communication ‘Bridge the Gap’ over the Midland Mainthrough the newsletter and these line in Loughborough to link up with schemes are designed to add to our our sister railway GCR(N) which has it's monthly printed news as well as this base in Ruddington, thereby creating a regular column in the Birstall Post. heritage steam railway of almost twenty From Shreekant Raivadera, miles in length, (a truly 'inter city' Birstall & Wanlip NHW steam line.) Such a development will mean that Crime Report : Birstall, May 22 to your local station will take on more June 19 prominence, as anyone intending to Assaults 3, harassment 1, burglary 3, savour the full journey will have to emburglary non-dwelling 1, damage 3, bark either here or at Ruddington. damage to motor vehicle 1, fraud 3, At present we lack many of the amentheft 9, theft of cycle 1, theft from motor ities of the other three stations, but vehicle 3, theft of motor vehicle 1, theft when funding becomes available imstores 1 provements will be made, so the more From PC2139 Richard Carruvisitors we can attract the more viable thers your local station will become. In the past 12 months burglary in We are always in need of volunteers Charnwood has fallen by 32 per cent (the railway could not function, or even exist without them) so if you feel that PETE INGHAM you could assist in any way, please call in and speak to the station master on Plastering & Property Maintenance duty, and he will be delighted to give you more information, and depending Professional Services Include on where your particular interests are, All Types of Plastering will be able to fit you in. Garden Work We are a very friendly station (the Fencing Visitors Book comments bear that out) Slabbing Block Paving so don't hesitate to give us a try. Patios Next time I will tell you about some Free Estimate ( 267 4194 of our present staff, what they do, and and Personal Attention how they came to join us, and also to Guaranteed Workmanship bring to your notice, forthcoming events TOTAL COMMITMENT TO that you can access via this station. QUALITY 51 Walker Rd, Birstall
From Brian Rowe, Duty Station Master, Leicester North Station
Pic: The GCR Belgrave & Birstall station in 1962
Parish Council notes A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on June 13. The Council discussed their plans to provide youth facilities on the School Lane playing field which were agreed in 2010 : an extension to the pavilion; the creation of a skate park and the creation of a multi-use games area. It was reported that in the current economic climate it was proving impossible to obtain grant funding. It was agreed that it would not be financially prudent to borrow money to proceed with all three projects, and that the Council should only proceed with the extension to the pavilion project, and put the other two projects on hold. The cost of providing the pavilion extension is £64,000 which can be met from Parish Council funds. It will provide space in the pavilion for the growing Birstall Youth Café and for wider community use. The Parish Council have been asked to take on the ownership of the planned park and ride sculpture, a 20 foot steel and timber cedar tree. The County and Borough Councils have declined to accept the responsibility. Cllr Tony Fowler said he would have preferred the £57,000 cost of the sculpture, the money for which is being provided by Jelsons, to be spent on the Council’s skate park and games area project and that if they wanted a cedar tree on the park and ride, why not just plant one. Other councillors commented that Birstall should be proud to receive
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this new public art and should celebrate it being erected here. The Council agreed to accept the ownership and responsibility for maintenance of the new sculpture, and will be provided with a one off sum of £6000 for this. The public toilets on Stonehill Avenue have been locked since April 1 and residents are complaining about the lack of the facility. The Parish Council has agreed to take on responsibility for the toilets from Charnwood, but until the lease is signed, they're still the responsibility of the Borough Council. The clerk reported that he expected the new lease to be signed later in June and that he felt Charnwood had handled the transfer poorly. Cllr Doug Topley reported his and parishioners’ concerns about the growing travellers’ site on Greengate Lane near the junction with Leicester Road. Because Leicester City Council were failing to take action, it was agreed a letter be sent to the MP for Leicester West, Liz Kendall. Councillors expressed their concerns about the County Council’s decision not to build a primary school at Hallam Fields but to extend Riverside school instead. Children will have a long walk to school, crossing the busy A6, and playground space at Riverside is likely to be lost. It was agreed to invite Birstall County Councillor Roger Wilson and Head of Development Management at Charnwood, Steve Lewis Roberts to a meeting to discuss the matter.
R.W.S.
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THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011
Parish church news Country park’s Woman power! No-one would deny that women are good socialisers! It is noticeable, looking at village activities in this paper – particularly fund-raising ones - how many Women’s Groups there are locally. In our three local churches, there is a meeting of one group or another almost every day of the week. The two particular groups at St James and Wanlip churches (but not in any way exclusively for churchgoers) are the Mothers’ Union and the Monday Group. The Monday Group meets on the second Monday of each month in the Day Care centre of the Village Hall. Every year the group chooses a different charity to support: this year it is VISTA, which works with blind and deaf people. The proceeds of a tea afternoon at 64 Johnson Road on July 8 (2.30 – 430pm) will go to this cause and to two children’s homes in Palestine. On Monday July 11 at 7.30pm Lesley Walton will be talking to the group about an eventful holiday in the Caribbean. Visitors will be welcome at both these events and you can call Jane on 2673761 for any further information. The Mothers’ Union is a world-wide organisation and has many branches in Leicestershire. The one in Birstall has been in existence for over 80 years, but like many groups, which used to meet in the daytime and whose membership was mainly composed of housewives, the Birstall and Wanlip group now meets in the evening, on the fourth Friday of each month at St James. This month’s meeting is on July 22 at 7.45pm in St James’ community area, when Margaret Tebbutt is coming to talk about ‘Bye Buy Childhood’ – the Mother’s Union campaign that aims to empower families to challenge the commercialisation and sexualisation of childhood, through positive action. Everyone is very welcome (men
as well as ladies). Admission £1. The MU has a varied programme of speakers, outings and social events and anyone wishing to know more is invited to contact Joan on 267201 or Helen on A PROFESSIONAL sculptor is using a chainsaw to create large scale 2673817. Getting Together wooden sculptures in Beacon Hill Country Park. Joint church (ie ‘ecumenical’) activiNottingham based sculptor ties have been a feature of the life of the Peter Leadbeater began creatchurches in Birstall and Wanlip since ing his artwork in June and 1997, when the Catholic, Methodist and some of the wood he is using Anglican churches signed a covenant will be sourced from trees that agreeing, amongst other things, “never have died naturally within the to do separately , what we can reasonacountry park. bly do together”. Over the years this Members of the public will has led to many shared services, social be able to watch as over time events, joint projects and study courses. each piece takes shape and is Perhaps the most recent “coming togeth- carved into its unique style. er” has been for Taize evening services, Peter is working with Leicesusually when there is a fifth Sunday of tershire County Council to the month. Taize is a community of make a number of different Protestant and Catholic brothers in Burgundy, France, founded by Brother Roger in 1940, to pray for peace and justice Pics: some of Peter Leadbeater’s work in the world. The community has beparks environment and wildlife and are come a place of pilgrimage, particularly expected to be completed next spring. for young people, over 100,000 of Byron Rhodes, Leicestershire County whom gather there in the summer each Council’s Cabinet Member for Country year for prayer, Bible study and commuParks said: “This is a fantastic opportuninal work. ty for people to watch in real time as The style of worship, which attracts these fascinating sculptures come to life so many people, has come out of the and recreate the history, wildlife and need to cater for all languages and nature at Beacon Hill. We are fortunate traditions. It takes place in a very simenough to be able to obtain these sculpple, often candle-lit setting, and the tures and to display them within the music, which is very easily learned, is in beautiful surroundings of the country the form of repeated phrases rather than park. Beacon Hill has always been a hymns, and there is time for prayer and popular destination for visitors and these reflection. The Taize service, which took new sculptures will add to the vast range place at Wanlip in May, was much appreof things for people to see and do whilst ciated by a small congregation. The at the park.” next one will happen at the Methodist Artist Peter Leadbeater said: “I feel Church at 6pm on Sunday July 31 when very lucky to be able to draw inspiration it is hoped that more people will come for my work from such a diverse, interalong for a very ‘different’ form of woresting and stunning location and I am ship. looking forward to getting started on From Beryl McHugh making a contribution for visitors to enjoy.” sculptures that will be permanently disFor more details about the work of played at Beacon Hill for visitors to Peter Leadbeater go to: enjoy. They will be themed around the www.peterleadbeater.com
chainsaw sculptures
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P/11/1411/2: 1 Curzon Avenue – fell 1x hornbeam and 2x hawthorn trees P/11/1371/2: 49 Woodgate Drive – 2 storey rear extension P/11/1365/2: 63 Fielding Road – erection of 1 three bedroom detached dwelling with associated car parking and landscaping. To include construction of replacement garage to serve no. 63 Fielding Road P/11/1321/2: 5 Walker Road – erection of single storey extension to rear of dwelling P/11/1335/2: 12A Copeland Road – works to various trees (tree protection order) P/11/1298/2: 23 Church Hill – erection of single storey side extension P/11/1304/2: 147 Sibson Road – change of use from retail unit (use class A1) to dog grooming and associated pet sales unit P/11/1286/2: 80 Harrowgate Drive – planning application to retain and reduce front dormer window and to
amend cladding with cladding to match roof P/11/1267/2: 28 Curzon Ave – erection of 1 two storey dwelling to replace existing bungalow P/11/1255/2: Phase 1C (Part) Hallam Fields – erection of 49 dwellings and associated works P/11/1221/2: 3 Melba Way – proposed single storey rear extension with new roof to existing garage and front porch area P/11/1242/2: 82A Birstall Road – formation of mansard roof, increase in height of roof to form loft accommodation to dwelling P/11/1241/2: 39 Gwendolin Avenue – erection of single storey rear extension to rear of dwelling P/11/1190/2: 58 Whiles Lane – erection of 2 storey side extension P/11/1141/2: 422 Loughborough Road – erection of single storey rear extension and formation of new garage to side of dwelling following demolition of existing garage
THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011 17
Bike thefts
Visitors from Birstall’s twin
THE FRIENDS of Rixensart welcomed their Belgian guests POLICE ARE launching a special opera- from Birstall’s twin town and tion after thefts of bicycles in Leices- enjoyed warm sunny weather ter city centre rose to 223 offences as they held their annual twinfrom December 2010 to May 31, ning weekend from June 2-5. 2011 compared to 171 offences for
the same period last year, a rise of 30%. The operation will include high visibility patrols, plain clothes patrols and action focused on known criminals. “We have arrested three young men for bicycle thefts in the last few months, but cyclists need to be vigilant and take steps to ensure their bikes are safe. For example secure your bike in a well-lit location; don’t leave it unattended for long periods of time; and leave it in a public area” said PC Nigel Baraclough. The bicycles are being stolen from a wide variety of locations in the city, whether or not they are secured by a chain. PC Alan Cook is the Crime Reduction Officer for the city area. He said: “I strongly recommend cyclists buy a good quality D lock from a reputable cycle shop or similar establishment. Keep details of your bike safe at home, including the make, colour, model and frame number. If possible take a photograph for future reference. I also suggest you register your bicycle with the following free service: www.immobilise.com which will help the police prove you are the owner of the bicycle and may assist in its recovery.” Bicycles make be parked at The Bike Park in Town Hall Square, Leicester. This service is being offered free of charge until the end of July, when refurbishment is scheduled to be completed. All enquiries should be directed to 0116 2559717; or alternatively to info@futurecycles.org.uk
On Friday, a coach trip was organised for the hosts and their visitors to Charlecote Park, a National Trust property near Stratford-upon-Avon. Everyone then proceeded to Stratford to enjoy an excellent 3 course lunch at restaurant Bistro Pierre followed by a guided tour of the town. On Saturday evening we held a
Pic: on a visit to Charlecote Park
party packed with music and party games at the Village Hall and a 3 course meal was served. To celebrate
Pic: Saturday night party in Birstall Village Hall
Birstall bowling club BIRSTALL BOWLING Club members are celebrating a triple success after qualifying for the National Finals in three events. For the fifth successive year, a team of four ladies have reached the Leicestershire final enabling them to compete at Leamington Spa at the end of the month. Jan Everitt and Diane Hurst
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the 30 years of friendship between Birstall and Rixensart, Ian Bartram, the Chairman of the Friends of Rixensart presented Christian Bergiers, the President of the Belgium Twinning Association with a cut-glass candlestick, which had been specially engraved to mark the event. During the year we have planned a varied programme of local social events to raise funds for the association’s bi-annual visits to Rixensart, and to entertain our Belgian guests when they visit us in Birstall. The events planned for the next six months include a boules/skittles match, a garden party, an Autumn supper and quiz, a November 5th fireworks party and a talk by a well known local speaker. If you are interested in becoming a member of our twinning association, taking part in our various social events, and maybe visit Rixensart with us during the late Spring next year, then you are very welcome. For further details about our events and our association, please contact Ann Bartram on 2674994 or Liz Thornber on 2675362 From ‘The Friends of Rixensart’
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THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011
Parking charge rise at Watermead THE COST of parking your car at Watermead Country Park (North) has risen by £1 to £2.50. The County Council say the increase is needed to help meet the cost of running the country park. A council spokesperson said: “The council has reviewed its current car parking rates and the revised rates have been in place since May 1, 2011. The car parking rates are for the whole day and still compare favourably to other similar attractions in the county. “Car parking charges have not been
reviewed or increased since 2006 and now need to be increased to ensure that income from car parks contributes more appropriately to the cost of running the service.” Other country parks affected by the car park charges are: Beacon Hill Country Park; Market Bosworth Park; Bosworth Battlefield Country Park and Borough Hill Country Park. The total income received from car parking at country parks for the 12 months to March 31, 2011 was £156,231. Leicester City Council are responsible for Watermead Country Park (South) and their car park, off Alderton Close and near to the mammoth, remains free of charge.
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THE LOROS Annual Walk on the Wildside has been organised for Sunday September 18 in association with Severn Trent. Two walks are planned for participants to stroll around and raise essential funds for the Charity to continue their work throughout Leicestershire and Rutland. Both courses start and finish at Severn Trent Visitor Centre, Cropston. The 12 mile circular walk will begin at 9.30am with walkers passing through Bradgate Park, Swithland Wood and Swithland village. The shorter 6 mile walk starts at 10.30am following a route around Bradgate Park before returning to Cropston. More than 700 walkers are expected to take part. If you haven’t already contacted LOROS for your sponsorship pack, you may turn up on the day and pay a donation to LOROS to enter the walk or visit the LOROS website www.loros.co.uk/fundraising. To register free for the Walk on the Wildside event please either call fundraising on 0116 2318431 or check out the LOROS website for a printable registration form. Individuals are rewarded with a medal to treasure on completion of the walk and once all sponsorship money has been donated a certificate recognising the walker’s achievement will be issued. During the walk, a goody bag will be handed out to participants which includes a thirst quenching bottle of Swithland water, a banana and a high energy Mars Bar. There will be a BBQ on the day with food available, face painting, lively warm up sessions, special guests, stalls, cheerleaders and more.
OUR PICTURE shows Birstall Scouts at the start of their parade from Stonehill school to The Close on School Lane, where they held their annual Scout & Guide summer gala
African Band at project festival A CHARITY founded by a Birstall couple is continuing its work supporting an orphanage in the Cameroon.
WEIRDFISH, A Leicester covers band featuring Birstall drummer Phil Hughes, played at the Galstonbudget Festival in May.
The Bark Foundation, started by DavGlastonbudget is Europe’s biggest id and Joy Bark of Queensgate Drive, tribute festival and is held in Wymeswold, has already raised £45,000 which paid Leicestershire. Over 10,000 people atfor the construction of a baby unit at the tended the festival and the main stage Hotpec orphanage in the Cameroon. featured tribute bands for Queen, U2, In November there were 115 children The Jam, The Foo Fighters and at the orphanage and with numbers Guns’n’Roses. increasing, an accommodation unit is It was Weirdfish’s first time playing at needed to house local and overseas the festival and they had to pass two volunteer staff. auditions to get onto the bill. The Foundation has now set itself the Phil said: “This was an amazing expegoal of raising £47,000 for a seven rience for Weirdfish. We normally just bedroom building. play in pubs and clubs around LeicesterDavid Bark said: “Such a building shire to a few hundred people, so this will be a big step forward in the develop- was the biggest gig of our lives by far. ment of the work of the orphanage. All We would like to thank everybody who of the staff do an exceptional job and came and supported us.” they deserve our help to achieve their You can catch Weirdfish at the Birdreams of improving the lives of destistall Gala on Saturday June 25 or at the tute children.” Old Plough on July 22. Find out more www.thebarkfoundation.org on their website. • The next fundraising event is a www.myspace.com/weirdfishband concert at 7.30pm on Friday Sep 9 at Birstall Methodist Church with piano, singing and instrumentalists. Tickets £5.
Screening Railway offer exhibition OSTEOPOROSIS SCREENING will be available at Birstall Village Hall on Thursday July 28 from 1-6pm. One in two women over 50 will suffer from this disease and of those who suffer a hip fracture, one in five will die as a result. Preventative screening is not routinely available on the NHS but you can now have a non-invasive scan for the reduced cost of £22 (usually £30) For further information and to make an appointment please call Healthcare on 0845 224 6784.
A FREE exhibition about the Mountsorrel Railway project is being held at Mountsorrel Library. The exhibition will show the history of this industrial steam line and the massive steps the local community has taken to recreate it.. The exhibition will be in Mountsorrel Library from Tuesday June 28 until Friday July 15. For more information contact George Overton, project volunteer, at george@mountsorrelrailway.org.uk or see the website at www.mountsorrelrailway.org.uk
THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011 19
INFO
have been under so much emotional Carer’s Allowance Nearly half of carers are not claiming stress and this support has eased a lot of my financial worry. I didn’t know Carer’s Allowance, despite skipping where else to go up to this point and meals and incurring debt. Turn2us has made all the difference.” National Carer’s week was in June, Daybreak’s John Stapleton recomand a new survey commissioned by mends New Parkinson’s Carer’s Guide Turn2us, part of the national charity Elizabeth Finn Care, has revealed that Parkinson’s UK today published a large numbers of carers are not receivnew guide endorsed by John Stapleton, ing Carer’s Allowance yet many are offering comprehensive information and facing financial hardship. Although alsupport to anyone caring for people most half of people who care for a living with the condition. relative or friend were not claiming The charity has published the updatCarer’s Allowance, nearly a third of ed Carer’s Guide to mark the end of those surveyed said they were regularly Carers Week (13-19 June), of which the skipping meals to make ends meet. charity is a leading partner. Turn2us wants to ensure that all carers Parkinson’s is a long-term neurologiclaim the benefits they are entitled to, cal condition that can affect people in which can make a difference. many different ways. But it also has a A spokesman said: “Carers provide a big impact on those who care for somevital and essential service. Our survey one with the condition. shows that almost a quarter of those A carer can be anyone who looks surveyed do not receive any benefits at after a family member, partner or friend all. A recent report by Carers UK shows who due to health reasons, is in need of that the care provided by friends and regular support. In the majority of cases, family members to ill, frail or disabled are not paid for carrying out this duty relatives is now worth a staggering for a loved one. £119 billion every year. Yet nearly As well as containing information 300,000 carers are missing out on a about the general needs of Parkinson’s total of £840 million worth of Carer's carers, the guide has been developed Allowance each year.” with the most up to date and current Carer’s Allowance provides support information to reflect recent political to full-time carers who are not in educa- developments - including changes to tion or earn no more than £100 a week. carers’ rights and benefits and profesHowever, the survey shows that many sional health and social care help availacarers are unlikely to believe they could ble. or should claim. Over two-fifths of carBroadcaster John Stapleton, cared ers surveyed struggle to pay their energy for his mother who had Parkinson’s and bills, and the need to raise awareness is dementia for many years. He said: “I all the more urgent because many carknow from first-hand experience, the ers fall into debt. Last year a fifth of difficult challenges facing the thousands carers surveyed amassed debts totalling of people who sacrifice so much to care over £600 on average as they struggled for someone with Parkinson’s. to pay bills. “I fully support this latest guide from Alison Taylor, Director of Turn2us Parkinson’s UK as it takes away some of comments: “Carer’s Allowance is a cruthat anxiety by offering expert informacial, albeit limited source of income for tion, advice and support on all aspects carers who often have demanding reof caring for someone with the condisponsibilities which limit their access to tion.” paid employment and education. Many Charlotte Jackson, Acting Information of the carers who have used Turn2us to Resources Manager at Parkinson’s UK access benefits say that before coming said: “Suddenly, and often unexpectedly to us they were simply unaware of what finding yourself in the position of caring they were entitled to or put off from for a loved one with Parkinson’s can be claiming by the sheer complexity of the a daunting and very stressful experience. benefits system. Turn2us has an easy to As the condition progresses, your caring use, free benefits checker at role will change too. Many carers can www.turn2us.org.uk – which carers can feel quite isolated if they don’t know use to make sure they are claiming everything they are entitled to.” Eileen from Belfast is a full-time carer for her 18-year-old son Iain who Required has autism. Eileen has benefited from Are you a caring person? exploring her benefit options. She comLike varied work & job satisfaction? ments: “Benefits are my only source of Join our team of carers in the Mountsorrel, income, so finding out about Carer’s Cropston, Quorn, Sileby, Syston, Birstall & Allowance has been a big help. Before I Wymeswold areas. got support I used to worry about how I Flexible shifts, 10-40 hrs per week, & mornings, evenings and weekends available. would pay bills and make ends meet, No experience required as all training will be but now I no longer have to.” provided. Through Turn2us, Aneira from Wales Up to £7.25hr, plus travel expenses. Telereceived useful information about benephone essential. Ring Debbie between fits, and as a result was able to claim 8.30am & 4.30pm for more information on the Carer’s Allowance. She said: “I real0116 2696247 (quoting reference BP) ly don’t know how I would have manHelp At Home (Egerton Lodge) Ltd aged without this extra assistance. I
Home Carers
who to turn to for guidance. “So, our newly-updated guide offers comprehensive expert information and support to anyone who is caring for a partner, relative or friend with Parkinson’s. We believe that no one should have to face Parkinson’s alone - and that includes carers of people with the condition.” The Carer’s Guide, published by Parkinson’s UK is available on request or can be downloaded from the website. http://www.parkinsons.org.uk ‘Independence, Wellbeing, Community’ September is again the time to promote opportunities and activities for Older People in Leicestershire and Rutland. A series of events and activities around the theme of ‘Independence, Wellbeing, Community’ will soon be underway across Leicestershire and Rutland. Booklets with listed activities, events and information are widely available from August – so you are being encouraged to look out for them and take part. Spokeswoman Liz McGregor said: “Come to a launch event in Wigston, Leicester or Loughborough to find out more. Join in with one of the big information and fun days in taking place across the County. Go along to have your health checked and find out more about what is available at your local libraries. Come and listen to some useful speakers on topical subjects. Go to a singalong or just have a coffee and chat. Go on one of the many physical activities taking place throughout the month and perhaps try something for the first time! Take advantage of the will writing promotion throughout September and October - the list is endless!” For more information about getting booklets, advance dates of events and how to be involved and active, contact Liz McGregor, Engagement Officer for Older People on 0116 2334243 e-mail: liz@communitiesinpartnership.org.uk
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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.
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THE BIRSTALL POST JULY 2011
Parking crackdown A MAJOR crackdown on pavement parking is being rolled out across Charnwood following a successful pilot scheme in Loughborough. July hosts Action Mesothelioma Day and in keeping with this theme we would like to provide you with information about the dangers of asbestos and the diseases it causes. What is Asbestos? Asbestos is a natural mineral mined from rock. It is made up of tiny fibres that are highly resistant to heat and chemicals. For this reason it was used in thousands of products and buildings. There are three main types of asbestos that have been used in the UK: Brown Asbestos (amosite). This is heat and acid resistant. It can be moulded into pipe insulation and board or used in bulk form for heat insulation. Blue Asbestos (crocidolite). This is highly resistant to acid and is used to make acid resistant cement pipe and in electric battery cases. It has been widely used for insulation on trains and ships. White Asbestos (chrysolite) This makes up about 97% of all asbestos processed. It resists heat but not acid and is used in asbestos cloth. From the late 1880s it was known that asbestos had a damaging effect on health but employers failed to inform the work force and successive governments failed to act to protect workers. It was not until the mid 1980s that blue and brown asbestos were banned in the UK and not until 1999 that white asbestos was finally banned. How does Asbestos damage health? Asbestos fibres are breathed (inhaled) into the lungs. The fibres are so fine they can penetrate deep into the smallest airways of the lungs and cannot be breathed or coughed out. Once the fibres are inside the lungs the body’s defence mechanism tries to break them down and remove them and this causes inflammation. These processes lead to the development of asbestos related diseases. The Diseases Caused by Asbestos Pleural plaques The pleura are two fine membranes which line the chest wall, diaphragm and lungs. Pleural plaques are where small patches of the pleura become thicker. These patches are usually about the size of a coin and can become harder and calcified with time. Diffuse pleural thickening? In the case of diffuse pleural thickening the patches of thickening are more widespread and may involve both layers of the pleura this can restrict the lungs from expanding normally and cause breathlessness. Asbestosis Asbestosis is a type of fibrosis or scarring of the lungs caused by asbestos fibres which have lodged in the lungs
after being inhaled from the air. The lung becomes damaged by the body’s inflammatory reaction to asbestos fibres. The inflammation results in scar tissue, or fibrosis, building up in the tissue between the air sacs in the lungs. The building up of fibrosis reduces the elasticity of the lungs and they become stiff, making it less easy for the lungs to inflate resulting in breathlessness Lung Cancer? Lung cancer is the seconf most common cancer in the UK. In the UK approximately 39,000 people are diagnosed with lung cancer each year and it is thought that about 2000 of these are due to asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is cancer, it is a malignant tumour of the pleura and virtually all cases are caused by exposure to asbestos fibres. Approximately 2,400 cases are currently being diagnosed each year in the UK with this figure set to rise over the next 10 years. In males born between 1940 and 1950 it is estimated that 1% will die of the disease. Persons diagnosed with Mesothelioma experience many symptoms including progressive breathlessness, chest pain, weight loss and extreme fatigue. Although the prognosis of mesothelioma is currently very poor, a variety of therapies are
emerging that may be able to increase the number of long term survivors, improve overall survival and have a significant impact on the symptoms of the disease. For further information please contact www.mesothelioma.uk.com /free phone 0800 169 2409 or the University Hospitals of Leicester Cancer Information Centre on 0116 258 6189. To reflect the interest and support of the local community Birstall BAG's seeks to be inclusive of all cancers and the group welcome villagers to support the many events they organise each year within the local community. For more information on forthcoming events look at our website www.birstallbags.co.uk From Birstall BAGS, Liz Darlison, Macmillan Consultant Nurse
Charnwood’s Street Wardens will be issuing £50 Parking Charge Notices to offenders who park on pavements in contravention of signs and lines. In just two months the Loughborough pilot scheme received more than 90 reports from the public to a dedicated hotline and email address provided for identifying offenders. This led to a 75 per cent reduction in incidents at four hotspot areas. The campaign is a joint initiative between Charnwood, the Police and the Royal National Institute for the Blind. Blocked pavements put vulnerable people at risk as pedestrians in wheelchairs, parents with pushchairs or the partially sighted are forced to walk on busy roads to get by, say the campaign organisers.
YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
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Simon Oates Electrical Contractors 18 Cliffwood Ave • Birstall • Leicester
editor@birstallpost.co.uk www.birstallpost.co.uk
0116 2672675 or 07816 288765 www.need-an-electrician.co.uk
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Television LCD • Plasma DVD recorders Digital Radio
Washing Machines Tumble Dryers Dishwashers Refrigeration
Microwaves Vacuum Cleaners
Built-in Appliances
Free 5 Year Warranty on the latest models of selected Panasonic Televisions
TEBBATT ELECTRONICS The Crossroads, Thurcaston 0116 2362333
Tel: 0116 267 2583
www.tebbatt-electronics.co.uk
Quality spectacles at the best prices
The
Odd Job Man No Job Too Small
visit our showroom proSP CS eyewear
Gardening • Slabbing Painting • House Painting Gutters Cleared
GET A QUOTE FROM US BEFORE YOU BUYYOUR NEXT PAIR OF SPECTACLES Same day service on most plastic lenses
FREE QUOTES • CALL HARRY
0116 2674703 0770 8419134
9 Kedlestone Ave, Birstall
Mob: 07967 191975 Buy DELL products here
Top quality lenses including Varilux, Nikon, Zeiss DESIGNER FRAMES
Contact Mike or Teresa Keily on 0116
237 6098
Unit 3, Victoria Mills Fowke St, Rothley Easy Parking