Birstall Post (339) Oct 2011

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

OCTOBER 2011

COUNTY ROOFING

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 339

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SPENCERS ESTATE agents have sponsored a junior football team.

Pictured are the Birstall United Juniors Under 14s in their new kit, outside Spencers branch on Sibson Road.

Manager Dave Sweeney said: “I’d like to thank Spencers for their continuing support, providing a new kit means the under 12s also benefit as they’ve had the kit from last year, so there’s now two teams with the Spencers’ logo.”

Hallam Fields progress 308 HOMES at Hallam Fields are currently occupied – once completed the development will contain 900 dwellings increasing the size of Birstall by 18 per cent.

Steve Lewis-Roberts, Head of Development Management at Charnwood Borough Council updated Birstall Parish

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Council on the progress of Hallam Fields at their meeting on September 12.

Continued on page 3

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

Jelson.

Because of the withdrawal of the school, an amendment to the 106 agreement with Jelson Homes has to be negotiated. If educational provision is not needed on the site then Jelson will not be required to make any financial contribution in respect of education.

A revised plan for a scaled down Fire Service HQ and fire station on the site has been submitted. The wind turbine, a feature of the original plan, has been removed.

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A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on September 12.

Head of Development Management at Charnwood Borough Council, Steve Lewis Roberts updated councillors on the progress of the Hallam Fields development.

Councillors expressed their disappointment with the County Council’s decision not to build a primary school at Hallam Fields, suggesting it would cause traffic congestion at Riverside and be a dangerous walking route from Hallam Fields to Riverside.

County Councillor Roger Wilson said he would continue to press for some kind of recreational facility, that would also act as a community meeting space, to be provided at Hallam Fields.

PCSO Stuart Venables reported that 79 parking advice notices had been issued in Birstall since August 8, for causing an obstruction. PCSO Venables explained that motorists parked on a pavement that do not leave enough room for double buggy to pass are issued with an advice notice. If they are caught a second time they receive a £30 fixed penalty notice.

PCSO Venables said the most frequent comment was “where do I park then?” and suggested that motorists may not be able to park as close to their home address as they would like.

Homes in the Roman Road area have been leafleted to advise them burglars are entering the village in their area, then moving north. Suspicious individuals have been seen in the early morning shining torches into vehicles and properties.

It was reported that Leicester City Council are “monitoring” the travellers on Greengate Lane and the issue is to be discussed at a forthcoming City Council meeting.

The Council agreed to apply for Quality Status. The cost of the application is £200.

It was reported that the time spent by staff on litter picking on the School Lane playing field was 400 hours per year, costing £3600.

The Council agreed to a proposal from two allotment holders on Meadow Lane to create a hazel coppice on the site.

It was agreed to remove all the plaques from the cemetery memorial wall, cover the entire surface with good quality marine ply and re-fix the plaques.

The cobbled setts will be replaced with grass, the loose concrete vase holder removed and the wall and stone pillars will be topped with an appropriate stone capping.

The council agreed that an entrance charge be introduced for the first time at the 2012 Birstall gala. In 2011 the total expenditure was £15,746 and the total income was £7601, resulting in a cost of £8,146, which represents 83p per elector in the parish.

The industrial units on site were “beginning to take off” he said, with three occupied and interest being shown from high tech industries.

The Palmer Tomkinson Centre at Longslade and the park and ride site have been completed – both were part of the developer’s section 106 package of contributions.

The tree-lined Hallam Walk which bisects the development has been started and will link up with the footbridge across the A6, which will be provided upon occupation of the 750th dwelling.

The site includes plans for recreational open space and a Community Hall.

The open space will be laid out by the developer, then transferred to either the Borough or Parish Council. The Community Hall will not be managed by Charnwood Borough Council. Mr Lewis-Roberts told the Birstall Post that the management of the open space/community hall had not yet been agreed with Birstall Parish Council and a meeting was needed to resolve this issue.

Three different developers are constructing homes on the site and the build rate has been slower than expected. The completion date is estimated to be between 5 and 15 years.

Principal developer, Jelson Homes, have a package of section 106 developer contributions agreed as a condition of planning permission. These include £2,050,000 for a ‘Primary School and Recreation Centre’ and £350,000 for a ‘Community Meeting Hall’.

These amounts are index linked.

Earlier this year the County Council announced a school was not needed at Hallam Fields and that Riverside School would be extended to accommodate the additional children from Hallam Fields.

Birstall Parish Council is disappointed with this decision, saying that there are County would have to find an additional traffic congestion problems at Riverside, £2million – money it will be hard to and that the route from Hallam fields to find in the current economic climate.

Riverside is lengthy and unsafe.

Were the school not to be built, Steve The County Council say birth rate Lewis-Roberts said the Borough Council figures show the school is not needed. would be determined to retain the assoSome observers have drawn attention to ciated Recreation Centre, but that the the fact that Jelson’s £2million is insuffi- land earmarked for the school may then cient to build a school and that the face pressure for development from

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Hallam Fields continued from page 1

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

Palmer Tomkinson Centre opens STUDENTS, STAFF & community groups have welcomed the opening of the new £4.8million Palmer Tomkinson Centre at Longslade College.

Community groups were invited to an and learning space.

“Another impresopen evening on September 6 as potension is the width of tial hirers of the hall and were imthe corridors – so pressed. unlike typical Sam Chambers from Syston Town Juniors FC said: “It’s a very nice building school corridors, these are wide and with lovely facilities, all weather training spacious. The colfacilities are very hard to find.” Janet lege is also delighted Proctor-Blain from Birstall and District we have been able to Art Society said: “It’s very impressive, as ‘bring home’ Atomic long as we can get used to all the techMan and find a pernology!” manent home for the The building has a large multi-purpose hall with galleries along three sides, sculpture in the Centre”. a large reception and bar area, a drama She added: “For studio and teaching spaces. An outdoor the college it provides all weather sports pitch is also planned.

Longslade’s Principal Liz Hall said: “I a wonderful facility for Post 16 students have to say it has exceeded my expectato use. The new drations in terms of the feeling of light and Pic: the lobby ma facilities are a space in the building. The auditorium is great improvement on fantastic – we have already used it on a the area which was used – with specialnumber of occasions now and what is ist flooring, stage lights and ‘black box’ really noticeable is the acoustic quality of the room. It is so easy to hold a large facilities. The media and ICT classrooms gathering in the auditorium and feel that also have great facilities and will support developments in these areas. For pereveryone can formance work, not only do we have the hear and see auditorium, we are also able to utilise easily wheththe ‘green room’, and improved changer they are ing facilities for performers. sat at the “For our community, the Palmer-Tomback or at kinson Centre offers a fantastic resource. the front.

We are also delighted we can cater for The classsuch a variety of users, particularly the rooms also improved access for wheelchair users feel light and airy and both from the car park and in the building itself. are a great “Feedback from students and staff has teaching

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been very positive – with positive comments from our community users as well.

In particular Performing Arts staff and students are looking forward to using the auditorium. Visitors to the building have been very impressed.”

The college is currently pursuing funding streams to provide sports facilities next to the centre, such as an all weather football pitch.

Pics: (above) The Palmer Tomkinson Centre and (right) two teaching spaces.

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

5

Phil delivers final pint after 34 years in Birstall A WELL liked milkman will be retiring from his round on the Greengate estate this October.

Pic: milkman Phil Squires

Phil Squires (64) has been delivering milk to the estate for 34 years, initially with the Co-op Dairy and now with Kirby and West.

A customer said: “He has been an invaluable member of our community and has gone out of his way to help customers during that time.

Whatever the weather, Phil delivers and he is always cheerful and ready with a smile and makes time for a chat.

“Phil has been extremely kind and helpful to numerous people on our estate over the years, for instance taking the milk in and placing it in the fridge daily for one elderly resident who had mobility issues.”

Phil will be 65 on Friday October 21 and will be retiring two days later.

“I think it is important that he is acknowledged for his long service to the residents of Birstall and would like him to know that his customers wish him a long happy

and healthy retirement. A big ‘Thank you’ to Phil – we will miss him” added the customer.

Phil said: “It feels great to be retiring, I’ll have a rest and do some of the things I keep putting off.” A Tigers fan with eight grandchildren, Phil added: “ I’ll miss the people, they’ve been wonderful and very good to me over the years. I’ve seen their children grow up and become customers themselves.”

Phil’s days used to start at 4am but as customer numbers have fallen over the last few years he’s had an extra hour in bed, starting at 5am.

“Early morning starts are a bit of a pain” he said. “But the weather has never bothered me, I’ve always wrapped up and kept a cheery disposition – who wants to see a miserable sod on the doorstep!”

The November issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Oct 28.

The copy deadline is Oct 14.

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

Salon’s New helping florists opens hand A BIRSTALL hairdressing salon helped out at a charity fashion show.

Stephen Thomas and his stylists from Revive on Went Road styled the hair of more than 15 models at the event, held at the Sytner BMW showroom in August.

A Fashion Gives Back event, the show raised £1537 for educating children in Zimbabwe and was also supported by John Lewis, Waitrose and Clarins.

“We were so happy to be part of such a great event for a wonderful cause” said Stephen Thomas.

Pic: Stephen Thomas with event organiser Charlene Mukuzvazva and stylists Kimberley Rochelle and Jemma Norton Advertise in

The birstall post 47 x 59mm £26 • 47 x 120mm £44 98 x 59mm £44 • 98 x 120mm £78 CALL 2674213 for an advertising rate card, or view online at www.birstallpost.co.uk The prices above exclude VAT

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VISITORS TO Birstall’s new florist shop on Hannah Parade were treated to a glass of bucksfizz and a cupcake on the shop’s opening day on September 3.

‘Lily & Grace’ is owned by sisters Kate Howard and Lisa Chandra who say their shop is a vintage inspired florists with a shabby chic feel.

“There were around 250 visitors on our open day and we were thrilled with the reaction to our vintage style” said Lisa.

She added: “Kate and I have always had a big passion for flowers and both started working as florists at the age of 15. We have always worked as a team and are hoping that together we can make a massive success of Lily & Grace!”

Pic: at the shop’s open day are (l-r) Kate Howard, Beth Jacobs, Chairman of Birstall Parish Council Stuart Jones and Lisa Chandra

A BUS service from Birstall to Leicester is to be axed.

The 99 service is operated by Paul S Winson Coaches and runs from Mountsorrel to Leicester via Rothley, Cropston and Birstall, three times a day.

Anthony Winson, Operations Director, said: “I appreciate that this is a service people rely on but the service is not financially viable and as a business there is only so much we can do.”

The service had previously been subsidised by the County Council and when this was withdrawn in 2006 and the service was set to be discontinued, Paul S Winson Coaches stepped in to save it and operate it on a commercial basis.

Mr Winson said: “We hoped we could build up a loyal customer base by offering a good service, smart buses and good drivers but the numbers using the bus have remained stable.” Around 70 people a day use the bus, and 99 percent of these are bus pass holders. Bus operators are reimbursed by the county council for each passenger who uses a bus pass, but only receive a percentage of the fare.

Mr Winson said: “This percentage has fallen and fallen since the scheme was introduced to what is now a stupidly low level.”

The 99 service is expected to be withdrawn at the end of October.

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Brian was known by many Birstall folk. Many will remember him playing his part in the Men’s Pantomime over many years. These parts included The Giant in Jack and the Beanstalk, The Spider in Miss Muffet, Uncle Avabanana in Aladdin but the during many decades of the annual performances he also played one of the Ugly sisters in Cinderella and Ali Baba’s Aunt, which Brian thoroughly enjoyed.

Richard Tinley, Director of the Men’s Pantomime, led the thanksgiving service.

Born in Hull in January 1938 he was always keen on music: both his parents were pianists. He became a master builder and gave many hours towards the upkeep of the Methodist premises. In fact he claimed to have held the highest position in the church (he re-pointed the chimney stack!).

In the 1970’s he was an officer in the Boys’ Brigade at the same time that Audrey, his wife, was Captain of the Girls Brigade.

He will be sadly missed, especially by his wife, six children and nine grandchildren.

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

NHW news & crime report

Pic: Guests at the Soroptomist International Midland East Region garden party in Birstall

Soroptomist’s garden party MORE THAN 100 Soroptomists from across the region came together for a fundraising garden party in Birstall.

The event was hosted in the garden of Brian and Janet Waters on School Lane where Region President Jasmit Kaur Phull welcomed guests who enjoyed cream teas, stalls and a dance performance.

Jasmit said: “Surprisingly as it was pouring with rain in Leicester, Birstall’s weather was very kind to the Soroptomists who attended in beautiful outfits and hats!

“I would like to thank Janet and Brian for lending us their magnificent garden and all who contributed towards the success of this garden party.”

The event raised £1000 for the Soroptomists’ Education and Leadership project. Soroptomist Interna-

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Exam results EXAMINATION RESULTS at Longslade College improved in 2011 compared to last year.

45% of students achieved five or more GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. In 2010 the figure was 43% and the national average was 53.5%.

75% of students achieved five or more GCSEs, compared to 72% in 2010.

Post 16 students achieved a pass rate of 97% at A2 level and the number of students achieving a grade C or above has risen from 64% in 2010 to 71%.

School examinations results are not published in full until December 2011 and can be viewed at www.education.gov.uk • Former Longslade student Jane Aston has been awarded a first class for part two of the mathematical Tripos from Trinity College, Cambridge, and David Russell, also from Longslade, has gained a first class honours degree in chemistry from the University of Leicester, winning the Hunter Medal and Prize for the best graduating student in chemistry.

Number Plate Theft We are aware of the need to keep our personal details safe to reduce the risk of identity theft but thieves are also after your vehicle’s identity.

Theft of number plates is becoming more common and these are fitted to other vehicles to conceal their true ownership. When they are caught on camera committing offences such as speeding, it is you who receives the enforcement letter. Equally common is their use on vehicles that drive off from petrol stations without paying. Then you are likely to get a visit from the Police.

If your number plates are stolen, it is essential that you report the matter to the Police immediately. This makes them aware that your number may be being used illegally and supplies you with proof of the theft, something that may prove difficult later when you are facing an unwarranted accusation.

It is easy to make such theft very difficult for the thieves. If they cannot steal your number plates quickly they will soon move on to another vehicle.

Special security screws that can be tightened in the normal way but cannot be unscrewed with a screwdriver take only minutes to fit.

They are available free of charge from the Neighbourhood Watch Advice Shop where there is always a range of security devices available at cost price and sometimes free.

Please pay us a visit. The Shop is open every third Saturday of the month at 10 Sibson Road (opposite the Garden Centre) between 10am and 12 noon.

The next dates are October 15, November 19 and December 17.

More information at www.villagewatch.co.uk From Ed Chambers, Secretary, Birstall and Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch Crime Report: Birstall Aug 8 – Sep 11 Assaults 3, harassment 3, burglary 3, burglary non-dwelling 6, damage 3, damage to motor vehicle 1, drugs 2, fraud 6, public order 1, theft 2, theft of cycle 2, theft from motor vehicle 2, theft stores 2.

In the last month the Birstall beat team have issued 79 parking advice notices.

PC 2139 Richard Carruthers, PCSO 6611 Mark Butler, PCSO 6438 Stu Venables

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

Fun packed week

9

Wizard of Oz

A SUMMER school organised by Faces Arts at Highcliffe School had the theme ‘Aladdin’.

More than 60 children aged between 4 and 16 years old enjoyed a week of dance, drama, singing and art with a performance to family and friends at the end of the week.

“We loved the summer school; we got so much out of it and especially liked working towards the performance” said Ellie and Abbie Williams.

Jody Chesterton, Proprietor of Faces Arts, said: “The children have a fun packed week at summer school, giving them a sense of achievement. They meet new friends and become a real family.

We all had such a good time and well done to all the children involved!”

Faces arts also provides after school dance and drama sessions, Shake Up toddler group and a Saturday Theatre School. For further details please visit www.facesarts.co. uk or contact jody@facesarts.co .uk 0791423201

HATS NEXT show is the Wizard of Oz, a musical play rather than the normal pantomime, but full of the same comedy, music and dance.

Everyone knows the story because it’s based closely on the 1939 MGM movie, starring Judy Garland.

So come and see the twister, Munchkinland, the Emerald City, the Yellow Brick Road and enjoy a couple of hours of fun filled entertainment.

Alternatively you could come and join our happy band and be involved in the production itself, either on stage or behind the scenes. We are desperate for more male actors but will welcome anyone, male or female, with open arms.

Performances of The Wizard of Oz are at Highcliffe School, Greengate Lane, Birstall on Thursday, Friday & Saturday, November 24, 25 & 26, at 7.30pm Tickets are £6 (£5 concs) and can be obtained in advance by phoning the box office on 26711 81 or 07757 854 719 or writing to 14 Fielding Road, Birstall, Leicester or by email at hatsbirstall1@ho tmail.co.uk From HATS

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

YOUR SAY...

Dirty nappy On a recent trip to the village I was glad to see that the toilets were open.

On entering, there was a notice that said: ‘Baby Changing Facilities’. I thought things were looking up only to see that some disgusting mother had changed her baby and left the dirty filled nappy on the changing board. Some people spoil things for everybody else.

A Godby

Thanks 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

Well done We would just like to say a big well done to Mr Ryan O’Reilly who recently donated bone marrow to someone in need. The younger generation in Birstall often get a bad press, and it’s heartwarming to know that there are sill people of a young age who are willing to go out of their way to help others. Well done.

From all the bar staff at Birstall Social Club

Thanks The Coffee Concert held at St James Parish Church on August 20 realised a total of £263.50 for Mercy Ships and church music funds Grateful thanks to all who attended and helped in any way Cynthia Coltman

We would like to thank the people of Birstall for their generosity in assisting us in our fundraising this year for LOROS and our Trek to the Sahara in November.

You have helped us raise the following: 2 coffee shops £186 & £161, bucket shake £248, Gala £171: a grand total of £766 towards our £4,250 needed Thank you again Gillian & David Green

Thanks I and my family would like to thank everyone who came to Mel’s funeral on September 12, it was a lovely day and the sun shone, I am pleased to say that over £250 was raised for Rainbows and LOROS in remembrance of Melvyn Hollis.

My family and I would like to thank everyone who celebrated Mel’s life with us. God bless you all.

Sylvia Hollis

Bus shelter May I say thank you to the lady or gentleman for their encouragement in getting a shelter over the seat on School Lane, and for the tips on people to contact - I will certainly be writing a few letters in the near future.

I did rather expect a reply from Mr

Blackburn concerning the points I made regarding the expenses for various projects in Birstall, especially the 'Park and Ride' 'facility. I did, however, omit to include the thousands of pounds being spent on the metal tree for the area, which is enough to provide a small forest, but providing no shelter for man nor beast and being really pretty pointless. The only shelter I am asking for, on behalf of the people who use the seat on School Lane, is a type of solid 'gazebo'. There really does seem to be loadsamoney swilling about for just about anything else, so please can we simply have a shelter for the School Lane seat to replace the one that was removed, to keep it dry in rain and snow - surely that is not too much to ask?

K. Leigh Reid

cause we do!

Actions speak louder than words.

Have you thought about setting up your own groups doing activities that you enjoy? We are surrounded by good leisure centres, why not try them out? Go with friends, share costs of petrol.

Stop looking for the bad in everything and look for the good. Is it any wonder that SOME youngsters today have bad attitudes when their elders do nothing but moan!

Ok, I agree, things in Birstall could be better, but as everyone struggles financially at the minute, fighting amongst ourselves will only make it worse.

Name & Address supplied P.S. I'm still many years away from getting a bus pass.

Put straight

Congestion

Not wanting to join ‘The war on Birstall facilities’ I would just like to put a few things straight about St James day centre.

I hope you are lucky enough never to need help bathing, unfortunately though, we're not all that lucky. Our service is the only one left in the area that continues to help both elderly and disabled people.

In today's world, where the elderly (in my opinion) are being treated unfairly, where they are left to exist rather than live, our ‘LITTLE’ day centre gives them HOPE, SPIRIT, COMFORT and LIFE! One day you too could be older and maybe, just maybe you too may need the help of someone who cares.

Did you know we have young people pass through our doors too, gaining work experience, entertaining us, and learning for their futures! They learn that caring can also be fun and that being kind "ain't no bad fing s'wicked innit".

Look around you people! if you don't like what you see, what are you doing about it? You write letters of complaint but do you actually get off your backsides and try to make a difference? Be-

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Tackling congestion is one of our main priorities and by investing in the Birstall park and ride, we will reap the benefits in the future.

Although it's early days, passenger numbers so far are good news and are climbing steadily. In its first month alone, almost 4,000 people used the fast and frequent service into Leicester, taking around 2,500 cars off the roads.

More than 450 tickets were snapped up as part of a special introductory deal offering travel for just £2.50. Evaluation of where these passengers live showed Loughborough was the most popular, followed by Birstall and that the service was popular with visitors to the area.

During October, we're running a 'free Fridays' offer giving commuters the chance to sample the park and ride for free. The deal enables people to travel before 9am on Fridays when they present a voucher and covers all three of the joint county and city council services at Birstall, Enderby and Meynell’s Gorse.

By linking up Birstall with Enderby park and ride, we can run two sites for the price of one, whilst opening it up to Charnwood and Melton residents, and visitors arriving along heavily congested routes from the north of the county and beyond.

Extending our park and ride network is about changing residents' travel habits and we're pleased that the number of passengers is continuing to rise.

Lesley Pendleton Leicestershire County Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport

Thanks Thank you to all my friends and neighbours for their kind expression of sympathy after the loss of my husband Peter Rice of Myrtle Avenue Thank you.

Sandra

Birstall facilities The letter from Mr L David must surely be seen as mainly mischief –making as he deliberately misquotes me in regard to Neighbourhood Watch and the bathing service at St James Day Care Centre and some of his statements are so incorrect as to be absurd. For example, when he makes his focus on the variety of shops he lists just the card and gift shops, various charity shops an assortment of fast food outlets and estate

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

agents and says: “that is pretty much it” which is so obviously not the case. His implied criticism that such places exist ignores the fact that a lot of people are all details printed free happy to use them. Also he tries to attribute to me the absurd, unbelievable Save the Children thought that I think everybody in Birstall Please come to the is old and anyone wanting to move here will be old but then in a glaringly contradictory way he agrees with me in my at The Methodist Coffee Shop, Wanlip praising of the adults who run the junior Lane, Birstall football and cricket teams! on Saturday October 30 Anne Godby shows how easy it is to 10am to 12noon be a critic. If only she was aware of how Various stalls hard and long it took Rev Charles Brad••• shaw (and his helpers who ran coffee Soar Valley Artists mornings etc) to raise the necessary funds and then to gain the cooperation of Age Concern and of Birstall Parish Council, the Social Services Dept and St James Church to establish St James Day at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Care Centre, then no doubt she would Lane, Rothley be appreciative of the fact that the CenSaturday & Sunday, October 1 & 2 tre exists at all. She states it is a very 10am to 5pm small place – true; it has just one room – Admission free and refreshments untrue and provides only for a small available part of the community – which is its All are welcome focus anyway.

••• Obviously a larger centre could cater for more people but bigger is not necessarily better. In many ways St James Day at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Care Centre is the right size. Apart from Lane, Rothley a much larger centre costing much Saturday October 29 more to run it can cause some people 10am to 12noon to feel rather ‘lost’ and there is not the Cakes, plants, gifts and jewellery same friendly intimate atmosphere and (new & second hand), toys, tombola, personal attention. In her criticism of raffle, books, bric-a-brac and Phoenix the park and ride project she seems to Cards think Birstall residents should not have Everyone welcome – come along and allowed this to happen – well ‘BAD’ and get some early Christmas presents. the public enquiry failed to stop all the Entry £1 to include unlimited coffee development on the Hallam Fields site! If Leicester City council and the County and biscuits Council had wanted to place the park In aid of Cancer Research UK and ride project at either Rothley or ••• Quorn then it would have been so placed regardless of whatever residents said or however strongly they protested.

George Huxley’s Jazz – one of the D Jones seems to thank that a facility best traditional jazz bands in the Midis only something which is provided by a lands! local council but surely a facility is anyA great night of great music in St thing which provides a service to the James’ Church, Church Hill, Birstall general public or to a special group in Saturday October 15 at 7.30pm the community, whoever provides that Tickets £10 on the door to include a service. I agree with him that it is regretglass of wine table and sad that some of the greenfield Make it a date in your diary! areas around Birstall which he enjoyed ••• in his youth have disappeared eg the Rothley Parish Church Hallam Fields site, but that is happening in lots of places and whilst the Government continues to allow many thousands on Saturday November 26 of immigrants to settle in Britain each 10-12noon at the Rothley Centre year the pressure to build more and Raffle, Toys, Gifts, Bric-a-Brac more houses will continue, with an inNearly new women’s clothes creasing number probably being built on Cakes, preserves greenfield sites alas.

Coffee & mince pies, hot dogs Mr J Woods Children’s activities, Rothley School Choir Proceeds to Rothley Scouts, St John Ambulance & Rothley Parish Church All welcome PETE INGHAM ••• Plastering &

Noticeboard Coffee Morning

Annual Exhibition of Paintings

Coffee Morning

new school minibus •••

Syston Town Juniors FC Girls U16 Players Wanted (School Year 10 & 11) 2011/2012 Season Contact Rich Gunn mob: 07884117116 or visit the club website: www.systontownjuniorsfc. co.uk •••

Car Boot Sale to include a cake sale In aid of St Theresa’s church funds Saturday October 15 To be held in Church car park, Front Street, Birstall Booters to arrive at 8am £5 per car (keeping profits, of course) Open to buyers 9am to 2pm Entrance fee, 50p per adult Now is the time to start clearing all your unwanted items to make room for all your new gifts you might receive at Christmas Remember ‘One Man’s Junk is Another Man’s Treasure’ •••

11

Birstall Methodist Women’s Group

Coffee Morning At the Methodist Church Coffee Shop Wanlip Lane, Saturday October 8, 10am to 12noon Cakes, tombola, plants, raffle Proceeds to our charity •••

Save the Children Please come to the Coffee Morning at The Methodist Coffee Shop, Wanlip Lane Saturday October 15 From 10am to 12noon Various stalls ••• Friends of Belgrave Cemetery Group Belgrave Cemetery Sunday November 6 From 10am until 1pm The Friends of Belgrave cemetery as part of Community Service Volunteer programme for 2011 are organising

Spring into Action Day And will be planting spring bulbs in the cemetery Continued on page 12

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Continued from page 11 Members are most welcome to come along and help with the planting As usual cemetery record information will be available •••

Remembrance Service at Belgrave Cemetery Sunday November 13 10.45am for 11am start led by the Rev Pam Haynes All are welcome to attend ••• Rearsby Art Club

Art & Crafts Exhibition Rearsby Village Hall On Sunday October 9 From 11am to 5pm Admission £1 including one free coffee/tea Everyone welcome •••

Gift Fair Rearsby Village Hall On Saturday November 5

From 11am to 4pm Christmas gifts for all the family Refreshments available all day Proceeds for St Michael’s Church, Rearsby Everyone welcome To book a table ring 01664 424696 ••• Age Concern Birstall & Wanlip

Coffee Morning Saturday November 12 From 10am to 12noon at Birstall Methodist Coffee Shop Home made cake stall, tombola Proceeds to St James Day Centre •••

Quorn Badminton Club Rawlins Sports Hall Monday 7.45-9.45pm 0116 2106717 for more details •••

Dowsing Group A talk on homeopathy will be given

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The meeting, to be held on Saturday October 8, will start at 10am All are welcome Further details from the chairperson Avril Holland on 0116 2121164 ••• Birstall Birdwatching Club presents

The Charnwood Forest

by Michael Jeeves An illustrated talk on the birds, wildlife and natural history of the area The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Tuesday October 11 at 7.30pm Visitors welcome £2 Contact Ken Goodrich 0116 2674813 •••

Age Concern Fancy seeing a top class rugby game against tough French opposition?

Never been to a rugby match?

Never been to the Tigers would famous Welford Road ground and tasted the fantastic family-friendly atmosphere, bars and facilities?

Just want a great afternoon out?

Why not get a party together and help our charity at the same time?

Tigers V Clermont Saturday December 17, kick-off 1.30pm Tickets: adults £25, 65+ £22.50, students £20, juniors £10 Buy through your local Age Concern and help raise much-needed funds Tel: 0116 2237344 •••

Bikes 4 All Do you have an unused bike taking up space in your shed or garage?

We recently donated a bike to ‘Bikes 4 All’ who train young people not in education or employment to do them up. The bikes are then either sold in the shop or used for training both adults and children. Donating a bike gave us a good feeling that something we didn’t use was doing some good – the extra space in the shed is useful too!

To arrange collection or to find out more ring 0116 246 0048 •••

Birstall Royal British Legion Oct 1: Gary Dee (M/V) Oct 8: John Stacey (M/V)

Oct 15: Jacqui Daniels (F/V) Oct 22: John McCartney (M/V) Oct 29: Rachel Ball (F/V) Dancing every Sat night with live entertainment Bingo, free beer raffle, and not forgetting ‘Open the Box’ Every Tues night Bingo starting at 9pm Quiz nights Sunday Oct 9 & 30 Acoustic night Sunday Oct 16 at 7.30pm Rock & Roll nights 1st & 3rd Wed of the month Food available every Sat lunch between 12-2pm Funerals also catered for A special General Meeting will be held on Wed Oct 19 at 7pm to adopt the new club rules ••• Birstall Methodist Church Fri/Sat November 25/26

Christmas Festival ‘Winter Wonderland’ in the church Decorated trees, displays, models, arrangements Santa’s Grotto Friday 10am-7pm, Saturday 10am –2pm

Outdoor Christmas Market Friday 2-7pm Table Top Sale Saturday 10am-2pm (Tables £10, tel: 0116 2671181) Refreshments & light lunches Friday/Saturday ••• St James the Great Church Hill, Birstall Sunday October 30 at 3pm

All Souls Service We will be holding a short service of Hymns/readings/prayers and reflection For those who have lost a loved one recently or in the past Open to everyone in the parish You will be very welcome Refreshments after the Service •••

Birstall Methodist Preschool The Preschool celebrates its 40th anniversary this year You are invited to a celebration on Thursday October 13 12.15-2pm Bouncy Castle, Activities for parents

Enjoy a complimentary therapy treatment in a calm relaxing atmosphere. Meet & chat to other patients & carers over a cup of tea. Therapies available include aromatherapy massage, reflexology, Indian head massage & reiki

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

& children, Display of photographs, light refreshments Co come and join us ••• Please join us for

Lunches for Lifeboats Saturday October 15 At Mulberry House, 8 Front Street, Birstall Lunches will be served between 12noon and 2pm Raffle, RNLI souvenirs, stalls Further details: Sheila Harrison, 0116 2673350 In aid of Leicester Branch RNLI Lifeboat Appeal ••• Birstall Social Club, Wanlip Lane

Come and dance the night away Every Tuesday & Saturday night Ballroom & sequence dancing Cash raffle, Thursdays Bingo Thursday, Saturday & Sunday Games room Secure parking New members welcome •••

Age Concern Birstall and Wanlip 200 club 1st No.139: Mr R Newitt 25 2nd No.65: Mrs B Howard £15 3rd No.111: Mr B Ward £10 4th No.76: Mr R Folland £5 Congrats to the winners, all proceeds go toward St James Day Centre Anyone wishing to take part in the draw cost £12 per year, drawn monthly, please contact Mandy or Jo at the day centre 2677023

•••

Birstall Area Music Centre An invitation to young musicians to join Leicestershire Schools Music Service new Area Music Centre Free Workshop Thursday October 6, 4-5.30pm At Stonehill School An enjoyable opportunity for young musicians to develop their skills in an ensemble.

For those who have been playing for one year or more (wind instruments) and for string players who have been learning for three terms up to a Grade 2 standard

•••

70s Rock and Disco Night Featuring live music from Standby In aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer Raffle & Auction, 70s style buffet, fancy dress optional October 15, from 7.30 to midnight at the Rothley Centre Tickets £15 available from Bradleys supermarket, Rothley Od’thorpes Café, Station Road, Quorn The Apple Tree Inn, Quorn Or tel: 07986283943 Over 16s only ••• National Childbirth Trust

Nearly New Toys & Equipment Sale On Saturday November 19, 1.30-3pm (NCT members admitted from 1pm)

Beaumont Leys School Anstey Lane LE4 OFL •••

Attention all clubs, groups, societies & speaker finders!

Have you thought about booking LOROS to come and present to your group?

Our presentation provides a selection of heart-warming stories and gives you a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes at LOROS where you’ll find wonderful people living life to the full, an inspirational blend of tears and laughter.

Our talk is completely free of charge!

Whether you are a local fitness class, WI group, sports club, gardening club, a business – we would love to meet you Everyone loves to hear about LOROS and learn more about us We can tailor make our presentation to your requirements, 10 mins to 1 hr, we will be pleased to meet your group and share our stories Bookings being taken now Please contact Jane Taylor 0116 231 8430 or janetaylor@loros.co.uk •••

Film Presentations From Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council

‘Burke & Hare’ Friday October 14 (91 mins) This is a true story set in 1820’s Edinburgh. Starring Bill Bailey and Isla Fisher, it is a black comedy about two grave robbers who find a lucrative business providing cadavers for Edinburgh University Medical School, but events become quite complicated.

‘Oranges and Sunshine’ Friday November 11 (105 mins) Starring Emily Watson and Hugo Weaving, this film is an enlightening and thought-proving true story, set in Nottingham. In 1986 Margaret began a tireless campaign to investigate a government programme that had begun in the Victorian era. Thousands of British schoolchildren had been relocated to other commonwealth countries. She exposed the truth about many broken families.

‘Nativity’ Friday December 9 (105 mins) Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall. Starting at 7.30pm, tickets cost £4.50 and concessions are £4. The price includes refreshments and a lucky prize draw.

Advance tickets can be purchased via the parish office, 0116 2367626 or at the door

•••

Calling all Messy Toddlers 12 months to 3 yrs Bring a grown up to our parent & toddler sessions The sessions are fun, interesting and very messy!

Lots of painting and sticking, biscuit and cake decorating Nature time and musical instruments.

Water & sand play

Stories and singing and lots of indoor and outside toys Grown ups enjoy a cuppa and adult conversation while the little ones munch on a well earned snack It’s a great place to spend an hour and a half on Monday mornings.

Interested?

Call Karen, Toddler Leader at Acorn Under Fives (reg charity) on 2672795 £2.50 per session (pre-paid every half term) at Highcliffe Primary School Community Room, Greengate Lane, Birstall ••• Birstall and District Local History Society

Thursday Oct 13 at 7.30pm Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall

‘Prisoners of WWII in Leics and Leicester’ Speaker Dr Margaret Bonney Visitors are very welcome ••• Birstall Christmas Lights Switch On &

Craft Fair Friday December 2 The switch on will take place on Sibson Road Car Park at 6pm Carol Service performed by Leicestershire Art Birstall Brass Ensemble

The Christmas Craft Fair will be in the Village Hall on Birstall Road from 6-9pm Free tea, coffee, mulled wine and mince pies in the village hall If you are interested in having a Christmas stall in the Village Hall please contact Sue Coulson on 2676191 or email: admin@birstallpc.org.uk (Only Christmas related items to be displayed on stalls, £10 for 1 table, £15 for 2 tables, set up from 3pm)

••• Birstall & District Art Society

13

9-5pm (Mon: 9-3pm) Admission Free •••

The Ibstock Brass Band St James Church, Church Hill, Birstall Sunday November 20, 7.30pm Come along and enjoy an evening of live music for only £3, pay on the door

•••

Birstall library events in October Monday 17: Colour and light singalong wriggly readers for children under five and their parents or carers.

Stories, rhymes, and colouring for children to enjoy from 10-10.45am.

Launch of Spooky stories and poems competition for children aged 6-12 year olds Tuesday 18: Come an celebrate Diwali.

It’s an event for families and there will be an opportunity to talk on how Diwali is celebrated in Leicester. Try out Rangoli patterns and other fun activities. Family event where everyone is welcome. Booking required due to limited places. 10am – 12noon Thursday 20: Health Check from 10am-1pm. Booking required Further info: Birstall library 0116 3058756

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14

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

Couple’s charity run

Cricket Corner BVCC Premier Division Champions 2011!

Birstall Village 1st XI have secured their second Premier Division title of the Leicestershire Senior League in three seasons.

Just over a month ago the 1st team was 60 points behind the leaders Newbold Verdon. But with eight wins in a row and Newbold struggling towards the end of the season, Birstall wrapped up the title with a game in hand. The 1st team beat a depleted Huncote team, bowling them out for 101 with Joshua Saye getting 5-20 off his 12 overs. It seemed appropriate that Dave Sharpe, Birstall captain was at the crease when the winning runs were hit in the 19th over.

The champagne was flowing well into the night celebrating what was a fantastic season. Dave Sharpe was thrilled with the whole team’s contribution throughout the year and feels the title was more than well deserved.

Birstall finished the season in style by convincingly beating runners up Newbold Verdon, bowling them out for 93 with father and son bowling combination Pete and Rich Sharpe causing the damage both getting three wickets each. Birstall seemed to be cruising to victory but losing four quick wickets put a bit of a stumble in Birstall’s stride. Newbold looked confident in the field but they underestimated the batting prowess of Steven ‘Chalky’ White who knocked a 1st team career best of 48 not out. This sealed the victory and clearly proved the dominance that the 1st team had over the league finishing with 417 points, 61 points clear of the

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27 YEAR OLD Matthew Litchfield from Birstall is running his first ever marathon this October when he will compete in the Baxter’s Loch Ness Marathon.

runners up. Well done boys!

1st XI top batsmen – Dave Sharpe 1st XI top bowlers – Joshua Saye and Pete Sharpe Birstall Village 2nd XI had a different run of form for the 2011 season.

Captain Prad Sood found it difficult at times to find his cricket shoes let alone a team which was going to compete to win a match. Batting seemed to be the stumbling block for the 2nd team this season, struggling the majority of the time to reach a score over 100 runs. The tail did wag on many occasions setting a respectful total to defend but the job seemed too difficult.

The positives to come out of the 2nd team this year were the many outstanding bowling performances and the success of some of U/17 juniors.

BVCC’s club depth was tested this season, hoping to bring on some promising juniors and attract some more players to strengthen a fantastic club next year. The 2nd team finished in 6th place with 220 points.

2nd XI top batsman – Ian Bartlett

2nd XI top bowlers – Steve Findley and Sam Carnan Birstall Village Cricket Club would like to thank all the members of the community who supported us throughout the season. BVCC really does pride themselves on a brilliant spirit within the club and appreciates all the support that they receive from players, members and the community. We look forward to another successful season in 2012.

Birstall Village CC has also had their website up and running throughout the year which provides information on fixtures, results, contact information for club members, 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. www.birstallvillagecc.co.uk From Joshua Saye Pic: Birstall 1st Team – Premier Division Champions 2011

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Pic: (l-r) Matt Litchfield, Dave Litchfield & Andrea Connolly

Running alongside him will be his partner Andrea Connolly, also 27, and also running her first marathon.

Andrea will be raising money for Cancer Research UK and Matt will be running for Macmillan - his father Dave, also from Birstall, was diagnosed with cancer in 2010 but has now been given the all clear.

Matt is a keen runner and enjoys running around Birstall village as well as the school field on Stonehill Avenue.

Andrea’s sponsorship page: www.runningsponsorme.org/andreaconn olly Matt’s: www.justgiving.com/matt-litchfield

Art on show BIRSTALL & District Art Society will be holding its 17th annual exhibition of paintings and drawings on November 5-7.

Staged in Birstall Village Hall, admission is free and there will be a wide variety of art on show with most of the work for sale. There will be a section for the society’s junior members and artwork from local primary schools. Visitors can enjoy a selection of savoury snacks and home made cakes and vote for the Best Picture in Show.

The Art Society welcomes visitors to its monthly meetings, to find out more email mhbirstall@gmail.com The exhibition is open: Saturday & Sunday 9am-5pm and Monday 9am3pm

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

15

Fundraising for Gunns’ gym Fun packed shoot

A SPONSORED run and a donation from a local organisation has helped boost the fundraising drive at Carl Gunns’ boxing gym.

72 runners ran around Watermead Country Park on Sunday September 18 and the Charnwood Crime and Safety Forum presented the gym with £50.

Secretary of the Forum Roy Rollings said: “Carl spoke to the forum at our last meeting and it was clear the gym needed some support.”

REDHILL REVOLVERS held their first Pairs Pistol Competition at the Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre in September.

Club spokesman Steve Prime said: “The competition was a big hit with the members who enjoyed a fun packed shoot, even the weather was kind on what should have been extremely windy and damp conditions according to the forecast.” For further information on the club, call Steve on 0116 2676114 (eve) or 0116 2676252 (day).

Pairs winning ways After the gym featured on BBC East Midlands Today last month, BBC Radio Five Live have visited the gym and recorded interviews with young people for a feature on community driven projects that reduce antisocial behaviour.

Pics: Carl Gunns with runners on the sponsored run & (left), with representatives from the Charnwood Crime and Safety Forum, Roy Rollings (centre) and John Shelley

THE BIRSTALL POST

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Stuart Marriott, Ryan Woodward, Chris Webb and Mike Reed finished eight holes up on their opponents in the competition, in which two pairs play matchplay against pairs of opponents, and the winner is the side ahead on aggregate.

Stars of the final were Woodward and Marriott, who finished eight holes up on the Whetstone pairing of Martin Mayes and Lance Thacker. Meanwhile Webb and Reed finished a much tighter match all square against David Cooper and Jon Peacock.

In earlier rounds Birstall teams had beaten Oadby and Forest Hill, before beating Glen Gorse in the semi final held at Charnwood Forest.

The club’s men’s team pulled off a major escape act when they retained their place in the County Scratch league First Division.

Going into the last two matches Birstall seemed doomed to an instant return to the second division, as they needed to win both their remaining matches convincingly against Cosby and Leicestershire: the two clubs battling for the title.

But they secured both wins, beating eventual champions Cosby by 6.5 – 1.5 and following up with a 6 – 2 win over The Leicestershire.

“The promoted side always has a very awkward fixture list” said Birstall 1st team captain Martin Weaver. “They get two home games and then four away matches on the trot which is really difficult, followed by the last two at home. The team played really well to win the last two matches so emphatically.”

Forum Treasurer John Shelley said: “Places like Carl’s gym are so important as they give children a focus, they can build up their physical strength and learn respect and discipline.”

Carl Gunns said: “I’m absolutely delighted to accept this cheque which will go towards purchasing some new equipment.”

B

BIRSTALL GOLF Club’s Under 35 team scored a fourth consecutive victory in the county Under 35 Foursome Pairs, when they beat Whetstone GC in the final, staged at Market Harborough GC.

Pic: Winning pair Steve Hancock and Paul Jackson

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

£1.20, for 3 £1.50 and for 4 £2.00).

The coffee shop has not increased its prices for over three years, and although not set up to make a profit (it was set up with the idea for folk to meet, make friends, and have a chat), any surplus is always given away. Over recent years the helpers have managed to send £1000 Birstall Baptist news each year to the Mara Kissa clinic in The Gambia, and have managed to do the IN AUGUST I met some local people same this year. Donations have also who were not aware that there is a been made to the Birstall Youth Café Baptist Church in Birstall, although it project and the Renal Unit at Loughborhas been in the village for about ough. Traditionally £1000 has been sent twenty-five years, so I thought it to one or other of the Local Hospices, would be a good idea to tell you alternating between Loros and Rainbows. about us.

This has been maintained again this year.

I do not have the space here to exThe scones and cakes, most of which plain how I became a Christian but I are ‘home made’ also increase in price. started attending Birstall Independent The coffee shop is only able to continBaptist Church from 1996, was baptised ue through the time freely given by many and became a member ten years ago. If helpers. New faces are always welcome, you are interested in finding out more, if you would like to help either behind we offer a short introductory course to the counter or baking, do pop in the Christianity, which will be arranged at a coffee shop and ask. mutually convenient time and venue.

New Hymnbook Now Published You may also meet our evangelist, Simon, The New Hymnbooks are expected to who is currently visiting around Birstall arrive at church during October. The on the East side of the A6.

Church is grateful to all those who doOur anniversary and Harvest Service nated money to fund copies of the new will be on Sunday October 16 and, look- hymnbook. Over the next few months ing further ahead, our Carol Service will there will be various opportunities to be on Sunday December 18. You will be explore the words and music of the most welcome at these or any of our ‘new items’ contained within the pages. I Sunday services, when we meet in the understand there are one or two hymns Community Room at Highcliffe Primary from the 1936 Hymnbook that were not School and Community Centre, Greenprinted in the 1984 edition. gate Lane, Birstall, Leicester, LE4 3DL at Ministers Move 10.45am. For further information September is the time many Methodplease ring 0116 2214883. ist Ministers move to new churches, From Anne Taylor following the practice set by John Wesley in the 18th century. There are (perhaps Methodist Church fortunately) no changes to our circuit staff of Rev Rachel Parkinson & Rev New Prices in the Coffee Shop Dave Warnock.

Where else could you buy a cup of However many Birstall friends will coffee for just 50p? Alas you used to be remember Rev Chris Gray and his Wife able to at the Methodist Coffee Shop on Viv who left Birstall to take up posts in Wanlip Lane, but alas no longer. From Chilwell & Long Eaton. I gather Chris October 1 the price per cup is 80p. A and Viv have now moved to Neath and single cup of tea however remains at Port Talbot Circuit in South Wales.

50p! A pot of tea for one is 80p (for 2 We are delighted to welcome Rev

Church news

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K.M. VEHICLE SERVICES 2677401

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Unit 8, 59 Sibson Rd, Birstall (rear of Posy Bowl)

Tony Pick, a recently retired Methodist Minister who has moved to Queniborough and will preach at Birstall, and other churches in the circuit, from time to time. Prior to retirement he had pastoral charge of Methodist churches in the Vale of Belvoir.

From Tony Moore

St James Church

Entry charge to gala

A piece of history Hidden in the church of Our Lady and St. Nicholas at Wanlip, lies a very old and remarkable monument – a beautifully preserved brass memorial to Lord Thomas and Lady Katherine Walsh of the manor of Wanlip, dating from 1393.

It is the second oldest brass memorial in England on which the inscription AN ADMISSION charge of £1 to was written in English (as opposed to next year’s Birstall Gala is Latin). This has been recorded along planned by the organisers of with other fascinating information by the event, Birstall Parish Counvolunteers from the National Association for Decorative and Fine Arts Society, cil. who have been working for the past two The Council is appealing to residents years on a project to record all the for ideas about how it can maintain and objects of historical interest in Wanlip improve the gala. church. At an evening service recently an Parish Clerk Steve Blackburn said: album was presented to the church “The Annual Gala was held last June and containing all this evidence. Currently was another success with many thouthe famous brass, on the floor in the sands visiting the Parish Council’s chancel of the church, is hidden under School Lane Playing Fields at some time a carpet to preserve it from wear and over the two days. tear, but the Churchwarden, John Ward, The Parish Council is very keen to is happy to show it to interested visitors. continue to have a gala but has been Past, present and future considering how to maintain and imReturning to the more recent past, prove the event whilst controlling costs many thanks are due to the people who, at a time of economic difficulty. At in spite of the typical Bank Holiday present, we receive generous support weather - wind and showers- turned up from the Edith Murphy foundation and to support the annual most of the remaining income comes Church Garden fete and helped to from the fairground, stallholders and the raise almost £1500 for the nominated Cricket Club. Most of the music comes charities and the church. to you free or at greatly reduced rates October brings some traditional and the main costs relate to the stage events and some newer ventures. and marquee, the sound system and the Harvest will be celebrated at both fireworks. These elements are all comchurches on Sunday 2nd (see Church petitively priced but a lot of the cost notices) and will include a Harvest relates to the need to employ staff, both lunch at St James and a sale of produce to manage the organisation and safety of after the 6.30pm service at Wanlip – all the event and to pick up the many tons proceeds to charity. of litter left behind.

A hugely enjoyable evening is what we “Put simply the net cost to the council expect on Saturday October 15 when St is about £8,000 and whilst this only James church is hosting a concert of means that each adult ratepayer in Bir“trad” jazz from the well-known George stall pays about 83p for the Gala, costs Huxley’s band. The band has a regular need to be kept under control. Some following in the East Midlands so if you economies can be made but it has reenjoy the toe-tapping rhythms of jazz grettably been decided that next year’s make sure you are there! Entry is £10 Gala will be the first to charge for admisat the door and includes a glass of wine. sion. £1 per adult, for unlimited visits A more solemn occasion is the annuover the weekend, is currently being al All Souls service at 3pm at St James proposed. church on Sunday October 30, when all “The Council would very much like to who have suffered bereavement are hear the views of all residents, both invited to come and light a candle as young and old, not only about how the part of a short, reflective service, remem- gala is financed , but what it should bering and praying for their loved ones. offer, and would particularly like to hear Still further ahead in November, Refrom anyone who could volunteer a few membrance Sunday this year falls on the hours of their time over the gala week13th and the British Legion Service of end or who might be willing to serve on remembrance will take place at St James the organising committee. at 10.30am. As this is the second Sun“The Parish Council gets much positive day of the month there will also be an feedback and is committed to keeping a Open House service in the Village Hall at two day gala but there is room for more 11am. help from the community and it will be In the meantime there is very good gratefully received.” news about the newly founded Gospel Contact the Parish Council office on Choir. There was an excellent response 2676191 or admin@birstallpc.org.uk if to last month’s appeal and the choir is you are able to help or have any suggesnow up and running – on the 1st and tions for future years. The office is open 3rd Friday evenings of each month at daily from 9am – 2pm except Wednes7.30pm in St. James. days.

From Beryl McHugh In 2011 the total expenditure on the gala was £15,746 and the total income was £7601, resulting in a cost of £8146.

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

Bowls club Kate a Norland nanny BOWLERS FROM Birstall Bowling Club won a remarkable six county competitions over one weekend last month.

On the Saturday they won the Greenwood Cup for the second time in three years with a combined score of +69, 25 shots clear of runners up Loughborough Queens Park. Birstall scores: Dave Hill, Richard Smith, Paul Young & Dave Clarke +28 v Evington. Gary Norman, Pa Walker, John Walker & Andy Wye +20 v Brookfield. Bill Alexander, Bob Cooper, Stuart Hartop & Tom Cowles +12 v Oadby. Rob Smith, Jan Everitt, Diane Hurst & John Hurst +9 v Aylestone Hall.

Then it was on to Super Sunday.

Jennie Groves beat her mum, Rosemary, to land the ladies two wood title. She followed that up with victory in the singles, recovering from 0-9 down against Kingscroft’s Louise Delahay to triumph 21-10. She then teamed up with Pam Ratcliffe, Jan Everitt and Diane Hurst to secure the fours trophy with an easy victory against a team from Little Bowden.

Meanwhile, the men won the Unbadged Double Fours competition for the second time in four years. They beat Wycliffe in the morning semi final before victory over Thringstone 55-34 in the final. Rink scores from the final: Rob Smith, Rick Everitt, Stuart Hartop & John Hurst won 34-9. Gary Norman, John Walker Richard Smith & Tom Cowles lost 21-25. At the same time, Grahame White and Dave Clarke made it five out of five for the day by winning the County over 60’s Pairs competition with a 28-20 victory over a pair from Hinckley Sweet Pea. John Hurst and Andy Wye were the first players from the club to qualify for the men’s National Finals. They narrowly lost by four shots 20-24 to a pair from Tanning Priory BC, Sussex in the first round at Worthing.

The club reached the Leicester League Cup final for the first time but lost 85-103 to Blaby, while the Lighthouse team finished top of the Loughborough Monday Triples League First Division.

Val Ross reached the semi final of the ladies Unbadged singles before losing to Barbara Lewis (Kingscroft).

Finally this month, for the first time in several years, there was victory for the Ladies over the Gents in the annual Jean Cartwright Shield match.

More about the club is on the website which can be found by putting “Birstall Bowling Club” into a search engine.

From Birstall Bowling Club

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is still required if you are selling or renting out your house.

Call David Jackson on 0781 5519490 to arrange your EPC

A YOUNG woman from Birstall has been awarded a place at the prestigious Norland College in Bath where she will train to become a nanny.

Kate Cluley (21) of Wanlip Lane, began her four year course last month. She said: “I love working with children and I think that being a nanny will be a very demanding yet extremely rewarding career.”

Kate, pictured right, was a student at Stonehill and Longslade where she took

her A-levels before getting a job at Birstall Golf Club.

Norland College has been training nannies for 110 years. Kate’s course is a BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies: two years in full time study and two years placement. Only 40 applicants are offered a place each year.

Senior doubles win A BIRSTALL tennis player has won a senior doubles title.

www.demontfortmemorials.co.uk Showroom:

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Kate said: “I’m looking forward to meeting new people at Norland and gaining new skills and training in order to help me secure a rewarding job in childcare. Ideally, when I’ve finished my training and had some experience working within families as a nanny I would like to open my own nursery but that is still a long way off yet, and my plans might change!”

PETROLS • DIESELS MOTORCYCLES

David Hutchinson who plays for Birstall Watermead and Leicester Forest East tennis clubs, won the Over 60s Level Men’s Doubles event with Alan Brownhill from L.F.E. In the semi-final, David and Alan clinched it on their seventh match point – one of which was in the sec-

MEMORIALS

17

ond set when they were 5-3 up. They eventually beat Michael Caban and Paul Hammond of Carisbrooke T.C. 6-3, 5-7, 6-4.

Then, in the final David and Alan lost the first seven games before turning the match around against Christopher Barker and Cliff Smith of the Leicestershire Tennis Club in three sets, 0-6, 6-4, 6-4 Pic: David Hutchinson (right) with Alan Brownhill

“SERVICE

NOT SELF”

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

18

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

Beechfield burglar flees A MAN who tried to burgle a home on Beechfield Avenue fled when he was discovered by the occupants.

The incident took place at about 11.15am on Friday September 9. A man knocked on the door of a house and when there was no answer he went around to the back of the premises where he attempted to enter the house by smashing a kitchen window. The occupants of the house disturbed the suspect and he then ran off up the garden towards the park.

The suspect has been described as white, 5’8”-5’10” tall, of medium build, in his late 40s or early 50s, with short

Choir success BIRSTALL’S NEW gospel choir is being hailed a success.

More than 60 people attended the choir’s first rehearsal at St James Church on September 2.

The choir has been started by Chris White. He said: “The people who attended were young and old, men and women, English and Asian, from different backgrounds.

“The choir is starting to provide a common interest for those who attend, as well as helping bring together communities in Birstall, with people just wanting to have fun singing and enjoying each other’s company.

The rehearsals are twice a month on the 1st and 3rd Fridays, at 7.30pm at St James Church.

For any further information contact Chris White on 07587177851 or email: cjwchriswhite@gmail.com

ALAN CHAMBERS PAINTER & DECORATOR

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grey hair which was possibly brushed back. He was wearing a black or dark blue jacket which was zipped up at the front.

PC Ian Mundy is investigating the incident. He said: “There is a possibility that the suspect may have knocked on other doors in the area and we would urge anyone who may have been visited in similar circumstances to contact us.

We would also like to speak to anyone

who saw a similar looking man running away from the area or recognises the description and may know who was responsible.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC 2995 Ian Mundy on Leicester 0116 222 2222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer’s identification number 2995. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, which is free and anonymous on 0800 555 111.

Fun dance for adults Gift of medicine at new class THE OWNER of a Leicester theatre school says she has started a dance class she has wanted to offer to adults for a long time.

Tracy Liggins, from Birstall, who runs the Starlight Theatre School, said Popdance – which teaches adults professionally-choreographed routines to classic pop tunes from the 80s through to the present day – was just the class she wanted for busy adults and parents.

She said: “A combination of the ‘old school’ music and having a good laugh while exercising, toning up and getting fit at the same time, really appealed to me. I can offer those stressed out mums an hour of fun while keeping fit without really realising it. They can also learn all those dance moves their kids are coming home with!” she said.

She added: “We’ve all got a dancer in us, and this class enables every busy grown-up to let loose and have fun dancing around without any pressure to get the steps right the whole time.”

She is offering a class to children also, ‘Popdance Kids’, for children aged 5 to 11 – a fun exercise class to popular music without the pressure of rules and dance exams, on Mondays from 4-5pm.

Tracy, a principal of the Starlight Theatre School, will be running her Popdance classes on Tuesdays from 8pm - 9pm and Thursday mornings from 9.30 - 10.30am at the school in Hadrian Road, Leicester, LE4 2PQ. Classes cost £4 (buy 5 weeks get one free) www.popdance.co.uk, email: info@popdance.co.uk or call: 08444 829706 www.starlighttheatreschool.com, starlighttheatre@me.com, 0116 235 5495

SEVENTEEN VOLUNTEERS including two from Birstall, six from Rothley and two from Thurcaston visited medical centres in Africa as part of a trip organised by a local charity.

Inter Care – Medical Aid for Africa sends unwanted medicines to those in need in Africa: since 1974 it has despatched £9million worth of drugs that have been diverted from destruction as waste.

The Syston based charity currently supplies medicines to 116 rural units in six African countries: Cameroon; Ghana; Malawi; Sierra Leone; Tanzania and Zambia.

At least twice a year, each unit receives a consignment of drugs and other medical supplies tailored to their particular needs.

General Manager Diane Hardy said: “Inter Care is a truly unique and humanitarian charity. Everyone who hears about us recognises its value. With continuing encouragement and help we hope to be able to bring in more medicines and finance, thereby increasing the number of medical units that we support. There are, sadly, so many more waiting for our help. ”We are currently victims of our success and are blessed with an abundance of good, quality donated medicines but like many charities in this tough economic climate, we are struggling to cover the costs to collect the medicines from GPs nationwide and the shipping costs to Africa, therefore any donations would be gratefully received to help ship these valuable medicines.”

For detailed information see www.intercare.org.uk or speak to Diane Hardy, General Manager on 0116 2695925 Pic: A group visiting the Mma Clementina’s Foundation in Tanzania includes volunteers from Birstall (Beryl Massey, Peter Moakes), Rothley (Barry Connolly, Ralph Moakes & Jeff, Diane, William and Nathan Hardy) and Thurcaston (Carol & Colin Austin)

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

Small Ads

Longslade has talent

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.

STUDENTS WERE welcomed back to Longslade College with a ‘Longslade’s Got Talent’ event on the first day of term.

Staff and students all took part in a number of challenges throughout the day, culminating in performances by 12 acts in the grand final.

Hula hoop dancer Vene Fiol was judged the winner

19

PHOTO: STEVE DIXON

Pics: Dancer Vene Fiol, (left) Luke Warrington & the judges deliberating are (l-r) Assistant Principals Louise Goffer, Sally Wicken and Principal Liz Hall

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.

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David Ives B.Sc.(Hons) FBEng MCIOB 0116 2674395 / 07974807111 www.amlidesign.co.uk MATHEMATICS TUITION: A LEVEL & GCSE, Birstall based. Call 07737352932

Pic: Parents and toddlers from Acorn Under Fives in front of their new sign

Acorn toddlers THE PARENT and toddler group at Acorn Under Fives pre-school has a new sign.

Provided courtesy of Steve Clarke of Think Sign and Print, the sign aims to promote awareness of the group which meets on Monday mornings for 90 minutes at Highcliffe School.

A spokesman said: “The sessions are fun, interesting and can be very messy! We paint, stick, colour and create. Midway through the session grown ups enjoy a cuppa and adult conversation while the

little ones munch on fruit, a biscuit and a drink. They recharge their batteries ready for the second half of the session. We have lots of indoor and outside toys, books and jigsaws. The toddlers quickly learn ‘tidy up time’ and that counting and singing follows to bring the busy session to a close.”

If you are interested in places in either toddlers or pre-school please call Acorn Under Fives 2672795

G E Gamble & Sons established 1830 Independent Family Funeral Directors 57 High Street, Syston, Leicester LE7 1GQ

Funerals arranged in the comfort of your own home or at our unique 17th century thatched cottage

0116 2607500 www.gamblefunerals.co.uk Prop: Mr Richard Astill, resident of birstall

New speedway stadium Planning applications open LEICESTER’S NEW £1.2million speedway stadium opened in April.

The Beaumont Park stadium is located on Beaumont Way near to the Beaumont Leys Leisure Centre and is the home of the Leicester Lions.

Work on the 21 acre site began in May 2010. The track is 320 metres long with a stadium capacity of 4500 and free car parking for 325 cars.

Further free parking is available at the Beaumont shopping complex.

Speedway involves four riders racing for four laps around the track on bikes with no brakes, one gear, a clutch and a 500cc engine which runs on methanol and can get to 60mph faster than a Formula 1 car. www.leisure-speedway.com

P/11/2090/2: Co-operative, 19 Wanlip Lane – installation of 24 hour ATM cash machine to front elevation P/11/2114/2: 70 Woodgate Drive – erection of two-storey extension to side and single storey extension to rear of dwelling P/11/2041/2: Land off Geoff Monk Way – erection of 2 storey Fire Station with Training House and 3 storey Headquarters Building with association external works including soft and hard landscaping and car parking P/11/2083/2: Leicester North Services, Loughborough Road – installation of art structure at entrance to Birstall Park & Ride site P/11/2055/2: 17 Ambergate Drive – replacement of flat roof with hipped roof over garage P/11/2110/2: 23 Palmer Square – installation of solar panels P/11/2089/2: 585 Loughborough Road – erection of two storey extension to side, single storey extension to rear, first floor side extension, balcony to rear, replacement of roof with installation of solar panels to side elevation of dwelling P/11/2035/2: 21 Church Hill – fell l cedar tree (conservation area notice) P/11/1935/2: 7 Worcester Ave – erection of a conservatory P/11/1946/2: 8 Copeland Road – erection of one and two storey extensions to dwelling P/11/2161/2: Longslade College – public art feature at Palmer Tomkinson Centre

20

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2011

The November issue of the birstall post will be published on Oct 28. The copy deadline is Oct 14.

New music centre A NEW Birstall Area Music Centre has been launched at Stonehill School.

The County Council’s Leicestershire Schools Music Service (LSMS), together with Stonehill and Longslade Schools are providing the service to give young people the opportunity to play in an ensemble.

Groups offered are windband and strings LSMS hope to introduce a choir in the autumn term. Sessions will take place weekly during term time.

A free launch workshop will be held at Stonehill school on Thursday October 6 from 4-5.30pm. Wind instrument players

ONE PERSON every 10 minutes is diagnosed with Breast Cancer in the UK: that’s a staggering 50,000 per year.

Birstall BAG’s urge you read on and learn a little more.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.

The facts • The biggest risk factor, after gender, is increasing age – 80 per cent of breast cancers occur in women over the age of 50.

• More people are being diagnosed with breast cancer but survival rates are improving – probably as a result of improved treatment and earlier detection.

• Breast cancer also affects men, but it is rare – around 300 men are diagnosed each year.

The stats • 50,000 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed each year in the UK. That’s one person every 10 minutes.

• Just over 12,000 people die from breast cancer in the UK every year.

• Breast cancer is the second biggest cause of death from cancer in women in the UK, after lung cancer.

• There are an estimated 550,000 people living in the UK today who have had a diagnosis of breast cancer.

• In women under the age of 35, breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer.

The NHS breast screening programme uses mammograms to screen for breast cancer in women aged 50 and over.

Whether you are screened or not all women should routinely exam their breasts. EARLY DIAGNOSIS REALLY DOES SAVE LIVES. The earlier a breast cancer is diagnosed, the easier it is likely to be to treat it and the better the chance of cure. Being breast aware simply means getting to know how your breasts normally look and feel at different times of the month. If you notice a change that isn't normal for you, talk it over with your doctor. Check your breasts every 2-4 weeks.

It is easiest to check your breasts in the shower or bath. Run a soapy hand over each breast and up under your arm.

You are checking for changes to the size, shape or feel of your breast. The NHS breast awareness five point code says • Know what is normal for you • Look and feel • Know what changes to look for •Report any changes without delay • Attend for breast screening if you are aged 50 or over Some things lower the risk of breast cancer such as having a generally

healthy lifestyle, including being physically active, and maintaining a healthy body weight. Statistically, if you breastfeed you are at less risk of developing breast cancer, particularly if you have your children when you are younger.

Breast Cancer is not one disease.

There are several different types, each may present quite differently, have different treatment opportunities and offer different outlooks for the person diagnosed. There are a variety of tests necessary to diagnose breast cancer. If you have a strong family history of breast cancer you can have a genetic test as it is possible to be born with a gene fault that may increase the risk of breast cancer.

For more information please contact: http://cancerhelp.canc erresearchuk.org/type/breastcancer/ Telephone: 0808 800 4040 9am until 5pm Monday to Friday. http://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/n ews/breast-cancer-facts-stats Telephone 020 7960 3464 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. We urge those affected by cancer to visit the Birstall Time Out Group (see separate advert). Thank you to Lilly & Grace Birstall’s new florist on Stonehill Avenue for donating raffle proceeds from their recent opening day to Birstall BAG’s and good luck in establishing your business.

For more information look at our website www.birstallbags.co.uk or email birstallbags@hotmail.com

should have been playing for one year or more and string players for three terms up to a grade 2 standard.

The charge is £30 per term. For more details Melanie Cahill 0116 2700850 or melani.cahill@leics.gov.uk

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

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