Birstall Post 352 November 2012 by The Birstall Post

Car the Birstall post hits Apples pressed at harvest festival child Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

NOVEMBER 2012

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 352

FOR THE second year running Birstall churches brought an apple press into the village for three days of events organised with environmental group, Greening Birstall. “The poor apple harvest had us worried this year” said Rachel Parkinson, minister at the Methodist Church “but the generosity of the village meant we had plenty of fruit to press.” On the Saturday afternoon, the Community Harvest Festival saw visitors able to learn and take part Continued on page 2

A STONEHILL student was knocked down by a car as she crossed Greengate Lane, near to Greengate Medical Centre. The eleven year old was on her way home from school when the accident occurred at 3.15pm on August 31. She was knocked into the air and suffered cuts and swelling to her nose, lips, chin, neck and left hip. She had grazing across her stomach cuts on her legs and extensive soft tissue damage to her feet. A passer by carried the girl into Greengate Medical Centre, accompanied by the driver of the car. Her parents then took her to Leicester Royal Infirmary where she was x-rayed. Continued on page 4

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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

Continued from page 1 in a whole range of activities involving recycling and sustainability. Meanwhile, in the church, Minimum Theatre from Melton Mowbray were performing ‘A Sower went forth to Sow’ presenting five parables of Jesus in comic style. Both primary schools hosted the press for a day each, allowing all Year 5 pupils a chance to make and drink the juice. “A million out of ten” was the mark given by one Highcliffe pupil to apple juice she had helped to produce. At Riverside, an international dimension was added by visitors from Trichy-Tanjore in South India who were visiting as part of an exchange with the Leicester Diocese. The children were fascinated to hear about hazards to school children in India, which included being eaten by tigers and leopards!

Pics: (top, ctr) Tea & Tariq Punter (2); (top,right) Roshni Field (2) scrubs an apple; (left) Morsbags volunteer Joy Lambell; (below) Laura Gregory & Neil Parkinson preparing apples

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Christmas lights CAROL SINGING, a firework display and an appearance by Santa and his sleigh will all feature at the Birstall Christmas lights switch-on event on Friday December 7. Organised by Birstall Parish Council the free event will take place on the Sibson Road car park at 6pm, with the fireworks starting on the School Lane playing field at 8.30pm. There will be a Christmas Market in the Village Hall and fairground rides on the car park where roasted chestnuts, hot potatoes, hot dogs and burgers will be available. A free mince pie and mulled wine will be offered to every visitor. Sue Coulson from Birstall Parish Council said: “We want to make this year’s switch on event bigger and better than ever with attractions for everyone to enjoy.”

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

Businesses sought for ‘market hub’ PLANS FOR shops, a nursery and a community hall all feature in plans for Hallam Fields drawn up by developers Jelson this August. Described as the site’s ‘Market Hub’, the plans also show a 60 bed care home. The plans are as yet only indicative of what may be built, although the original plans approved for Hallam Fields include shops, a community building and sports pitches, as well as a primary school with linked recreational facilities. Jelson’s is required to make land available for the ‘market hub’ and to market the site to potential businesses. This marketing is now taking place but

mini football pitches, a cricket pitch and a pavilion with two changing rooms are planned for the site. As buses cannot use unadopted roads there can be no provision of a bus serv-

development will only begin if commercial interest is shown. Charnwood’s Group Leader for Development Management, Steve Lewis-Roberts, said: “I am optimistic that private businesses will be interested in the site. We have already received enquiries here at the Borough Council from businesses about opportunities at Hallam Fields.” £350,000 is available now from Jelson for the provision of a community building. This is likely to be owned and managed by Birstall Parish Council. At the parish Council’s October meeting Chairman Pat Cleere said it was important that the council and the community

lam Fields remains unlikely to be built by the County Council, who say that children can be accommodated at an extended Riverside School. The County Council, Charnwood and developers Jelson have discussed provision of a free school on the site with funding split between the County, Jelson, the Government Department for Education and a suitable sponsor. But free schools are initiated by parents, teachers and private businesses and there has been no indication of any such grouping showing an interest in the site. Two full size football pitches, two

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THE BIRSTALL POST

NOV 2012

Bumpy ride for BMX track PLANS TO create a BMX track on Meadow Lane playing field have been stopped because of health and safety fears. Birstall Parish Council intended to install the track next to the existing half pipe using materials donated by Severn Trent and topsoil from the re-laying of Birstall bowling green. BMX track designer Ben Rafferty had prepared plans for the £5000 project. A tipper truck driven by a contractor moved the bowling green topsoil to the site but when it drove onto the grass area next to the half pipe it sunk into the ground almost tipping over. A recovery vehicle had to use a crane to remove it at a cost of £740. The topsoil, which would have been used to landscape the track, was left at the side of Meadow Lane. Parish Council Chairman Pat Cleere said: “If we carry on with the project there is a risk it could be reported to the Health and Safety Executive and that is worrying as something might be found, and we don’t want to do anything that may risk the reputation of Severn Trent who have donated the base materials. It could get out of hand.” Fears about the suitability of the site had been raised at the Parish Council’s October meeting. Cllr Julian Howe said the project should be stopped until it had been properly costed and the site surveyed to assess its suitability. The site is a former rubbish tip. He said: “I am in favour of providing a track but I am worried that this is a rush job. Cllr Jim Garner questioned the decision to allow the truck carrying the top soil onto the site. He said that Parish Council projects were normally properly managed but this was a “DIY job that

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Pic: the proposed site of the BMX track, next to the half pipe has already cost us money and will cost us more.” The Clerk Steve Blackburn reported that the Council had taken advice on whether the site could take the weight of the materials planned for the track. With the offer of free materials from Severn Trent the Council needed to react to opportunities like this when they arise. Cllr Tony Fowler said that the offer from Severn Trent was a one-off and would save the Council £14,000. Cllr Ann Marshall said the BMX track was an opportunity for the Council to provide something for young people in the context of the recent closure of the swimming pool and was an opportunity that should be taken up. At that meeting, held on October 8, the Council voted by a majority decision to proceed with the track. Following concerns raised about the Health and Safety Executive the decision to stop the project was made a week later.

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• Shortly before going to press, The Birstall Post learned that the Environmental protection team at Charnwood Borough Council, who own the Meadow Laner playing field, had assessed the site and give approval to the BMX track. The site had been used for landfill waste between 1960-66, a private business has lawfully erected brick buildings on the site, and it had previously been used as a BMX track. • In August 2010 the Parish Council carried out a consultation event at the Village Hall where young people gave their views on play facilities in the village. Plans for a £70,000 concrete skate park on the School Lane playing field were drawn up and the Council looked for grant funding to help with the costs. Because of the recession, funding has become much harder to secure and the plans are currently on hold. Continued from page 1

The Police are investigating the accident, which happened in the section of Greengate Lane where the County Council want to increase the speed limit from 30 to 40mph. The council says the measure will enable them to move the 30mph signs on Greengate Lane, making them more visible. The girl’s mother, Maria Middleton, said: “I have many concerns about road safety on Greengate Lane, but to me the issue automatically involves the A6 junction too. Cars turning into Greengate Lane often take a risk on the lights or actually go through when it is clearly red. They then have to take the corner quickly or they will be hit by other traffic. “I think the obvious answer is not to match the speed limit on Greengate Lane to that on the A6 but to reduce the speed limit for the Birstall section of the A6 to 30mph. This would help the race track mentality that exists on the A6, particularly at that junction.” • The development of 3000 homes at Ashton Green in Beaumont Leys is expected to increase the volume of traffic on Greengate lane. The County Council plans to introduce a 20mph school safety zone near Highcliffe school in this financial year. The county also plan traffic calming measures near the GCR bridge, introducing single lane traffic controlled by traffic lights.

Parish Council notes A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on October 8. PCSO Alex Bierne reported that he had joined the Birstall Beat Team two weeks ago. He said that burglaries in the Charnwood area had declined. As the Beat Team now has four members he said that the Beat Office at 10 Sibson Road would be staffed more frequently. A member of the public commented on the damage to the surface of the Meadow Lane playing field caused by a truck getting stuck while delivering top soil to the site for a BMX track. The topsoil had been left on the verge of Meadow Lane right opposite a deep unfenced ditch, presenting a hazard. Another member of the public commented that there was a BMX track on the site three years ago that had been underused. He questioned why another was needed and said a new track would result in a loss of open play area. In response, it was reported that the surface damage was repairable, that some elements of a BMX track that had fallen into disrepair at Meadow Lane had been taken away but the facilities that remained were well used. The council agreed to adopt the General Power of Competence, a feature of the Localism Act 2011. This enables councils to get involved in any lawful activity that will improve the communities they serve, such as running a shop, library or a small business. The council agreed to allow younger children to use the Youth Café for a trial period, following a recommendation by youth workers. Councillors discussed the provision of a BMX track at Meadow Lane. The opportunity for a track had arisen because Severn Trent had agreed to donate up to 400 tonnes of base material for the project, saving the council £14,000. Some councillors expressed concern about the suitability of the site, located on a capped refuse tip, and doing the work on water logged ground. Comment was made that the Council should take advantage of opportunities like this when they arise and the Council voted by a majority decision to proceed with the project. As development at Hallam Fields progresses, the uses of the planned community hall for the site need to be considered. Chairman Pat Cleere said that now was the time for potential users to come forward with their ideas. County Councillor Roger Wilson said the County’s view was that the cost of providing a new school at Hallam Fields was too expensive and that there was renewed interest in the possibility of a Free School, which he said he hoped would happen. Cllr Wilson reported that the use of Birstall park and ride is increasing slowly. He said he thought it was likely that Leicester City Council would recommend its proposed travellers’ sites. The Council has agreed an increase in its sports pitch hire fees for football and cricket. No changes were made to the current charges for hiring the Village Hall, or to cemetery charges. An increase in allotment rental rates for 2014 was agreed.

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

Charity Longslade Zumba College’s open evening A LOCAL Zumba teacher is offering a charity Zumba Class on Nov 27 at Longslade.

Pic: Lisa Cluer Lisa Cluer’s Zumbathon will cost £5, including a raffle ticket, with all proceeds going to the Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital (GOSH). The class, in Longslade’s sports hall, runs from 6.15 – 7.30pm. One of Lisa’s regular class goers, Jo, said: “You see Great Ormond Street Hospital on the TV and you see children and caring doctors and nurses. What you can’t see is how GOSH makes children and parents feel once you step into the hospital, it’s a warm friendly environment for everyone. “I asked our son what is the best thing about GOSH, he said ‘the hospital makes me feel safe, the nurses don’t hurt and there are funny clowns’. He has been known to say that GOSH is his second home. I have seen where charity money is used by GOSH from the hospital hotel for children and parents who need to stay over, fun activities and toys or towards new life saving equipment. I know that every penny raised by Lisa’s Charity Zumbathon will be appreciated.” Call Lisa on 07850 759170

Santa’s tour dates THE ROTARY Club of the Soar Valley will once again be accompanying Santa on his tour of local villages from December 7-23. Santa will be touring Birstall on Wed Dec 19 and Thurs Dec 20, Mountsorrel on Fri Dec 7 and Mon Dec 10 and Rothley on Mon Dec 10 and Fri Dec 21. He will also be making stops at Birstall’s Co-op supermarket on Dec 16 and Budgens, Mountsorrel on Dec 22 & 23.

Longslade Options Evening combined Key Stage 4 and post 16 options into one event for the first time. “With the expectation that young people will now stay in education or training until 17/18 years of age, we felt it was important parents and students could see the wide range of successful courses they could take over three and four years” said Longslade Principal Liz Hall. Presentations were given to parents and students, student guides were on hand to assist and some students talked about their own studies and the courses they had chosen.

PHOTOS: LONGSLADE COLLEGE

THE WIDE range of academic and vocational courses at Longslade College were showcased at the college’s open evening in October.

Pics: (top) Maths teacher Yuri Large talking to visitors and (left) students Shannon Woolman & Jess Mundell Any parents or students who were not able to attend the evening are invited to contact the college to arrange a visit. Details of all the academic and vocational courses provided are also available on the website.www.longslade.leics.sch.uk

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Liz Hall said: “Students Bradley Rumball, Shannon Webb and Philippa Towle spoke brilliantly and we were so proud of them.” A USB card providing details of the academic and vocational courses available were given to everyone who attended.

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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

Organic foot care A BIRSTALL podiatrist now stocks an organic range of foot care products.

Rugby players ride coast to coast A COAST to coast charity cycle ride by members of Birstall Rugby Club has raised £3500. A group of 12 riders set off from the Cumbrian town of Workington, riding through the Lake District and across the Pennines to Sunderland, a total of 150 miles that was completed in two days. “It was the toughest challenge we have attempted yet! We are all very proud of the achievement and it was certainly worth the pain of riding for two full days, over some of the biggest hills

in the UK. We certainly wouldn’t have completed it without the fantastic spirit amongst us and the help of our support team” said Club Captain Kieran Warner. The group were raising money for both the Rugby Club and the Richard Englegardt Trust in aid of a former player who suffered life changing injuries in a playing incident just over three years

ago while playing for the club. Birstall Rugby Club had previously completed the 3 Peaks challenge which involves climbing the three highest peaks in the UK in 24 hours, in addition to a sponsored Beard grow in aid of the Richard Englegardt Trust. They are already looking at challenges for a 2013 fundraiser. The club is celebrating a successful start to the new season with five wins out of five, scoring 31 tries, while the second team has lost only one of its opening games. Changes at the club over the summer saw the appointment of a new chairman, club captain and first team captain, the recruitment of some new young players and a re-organisation of the committee. Birstall RFC train on Tuesday nights at 7pm at Stonehill School and are always looking for new players or members of all ages and abilities. Visit the club’s website for more details www.birstallrfc.co.uk Pic: (top) the coast to coast riders & (left) BRFC 1st team

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Footmedics UK is a specialist podiatry clinic at 80 Sibson Road. Podiatrist Rasminder Palahey has been treating feet for over 10 years, has treated athletes at the London marathon and featured on BBC Radio and in Runners’ World magazine. She said: “I have chosen to use the Arbonne organic range as it benefits the patients’ long term Pic: Rasminder Palahey health and we have “had fantastic results improving skin conditions at the practice.” A percentage of the purchase price of the products goes to a charity that supports young people. You can buy from the Sibson Road practice or online at www.footmedics.co.uk

Store chaos A MAN who punched a policeman in the face in Birstall and days later caused chaos in Asda, Thurmaston has been given a 12 month community order. Leicester Crown Court heard that Sean Richard Palmer (25), of Clayton Drive, Thurmaston, began knocking on doors in Ashmead Crescent at 7.30am on August 5. He was holding a garden fork, appeared frightened and claimed people were after him. A Police officer spoke to Palmer on Wanlip Lane. He calmed down but then punched the officer in the face and fled. At a nearby house he banged on a window, frightening a mother and her children. CS spray was used to detain him. When interviewed by Police, Clayton, who has previous convictions for possessing cocaine and cannabis, claimed he was being pursued by a group with a hammer and pitchfork. An August 16 Palmer, high on MCAT – mephedrone entered the Asda store in Thurmaston. He leapt onto counters, shouting and making threats, causing chaos among shoppers. At one point Clayton stood on a conveyor belt, smashed one of the bottles and kept hold of the jagged neck while making threats. The store was evacuated before Police carrying riot shields used a Taser to detain him. Palmer admitted causing an affray, threatening behaviour, assaulting a Police officer and having an offensive weapon in a public place.

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

Magical panto from HATS HATS’ NEXT show is Rapunzel – you know, the princess with the long hair, the very long hair. Now, our story teller is the best in the land, and she has a special story to tell this coming winter. We all know how to get up to Rapunzel in her tower. We all shout “Rapunzel, Rapunzel let down your hair.” But in this version of the classic fairy tale, will she be saved by the handsome prince Hugo, or stay captured forever by

Fun filled night

Pic: will Rapunzel succumb to the evil sorceress or will she be rescued by the handsome prince? (l-r) Tracy Fuller, Kate Fuller and Caroline Gooding

the evil witch and her son… Let us tell you the story in the usual pantomime way. We are sure you will enjoy a couple of hours of fun filled entertainment. We always welcome new members, so, if you are interested in either acting on stage or working behind the scenes, come and see us any Wednesday evening Highcliffe School or phone 0116 2128757 Performances of Rapunzel are at Highcliffe

School, Greengate Lane, Birstall on November Thursday 29, Friday 30 and Saturday December 1, 2012 at 7.15pm plus a matinee performance on Sat December 1 at 2.30pm. Doors are open 30 mins before curtain up. Tickets are £6 (£5 concs) and can be obtained in advance by phoning the box office on 0116 2676049 or 07757854719 or by email at hatsbirstall1@hotmail.co.uk. Tickets not pre-booked will be available on the door. Group discounts are available. From HATS

A CHARITY disco at Birstall Social Club in September has raised £1600.

Season’s Greetings from the White Horse

Christmas Party Menu 2 courses £16.95, 3 courses £19.95 Lunch Bookings £3.00 Discount Winter vegetable soup served with warm artisan bread Organised by Paula Clifford, the event raised money for Wishes For Kids and Leicester Hospital’s gynaecological Oncology Unit. Paula said: “It was a fun filled night starting with an hour of children’s entertainment followed by a disco with R S Entertainment. The dance floor was full, everyone danced the night away and I’ve had so much feedback saying how good it was to have a family event in Birstall.” She added: “I would like to thank everyone who bought a ticket and attended and all those who donated prizes.” Pic (top): Paula Clifford and Manny Sanghera receiving the £100 donation from Birstall Social Club Pic: prize winners (l-r) Rachael Hudson, Tommy McCann, Louis McCann, Emily-Jane Dutton, Harley Dutton and Sam Lane

“Hot smoked” salmon served chilled on a fennel & beetroot salad with a lemon & herb dressing Field mushroom topped with baked goats cheese and red onion confit served on a dressed bed of winter leaves Smoked duck and orange salad served with foccacia wafers & orange & cranberry dressing *** Traditional Turkey with Roast Potatoes, stuffing, bacon chipolata & cranberry sauce Winter game casserole served with wholegrain mustard mashed potato & parsnip crisps Oven baked cod fillet served with baby new potatoes, roast cherry vine tomatoes & fresh pesto dressing

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Dates for your diary...

• Super steak offer- buy any two steaks & receive a free bottle of house wine • Live Music 8th and 30th November • Sing Christmas: Monday 17th December, 7-8 pm. • Children’s Christmas Party 22nd December from 3.30pm • Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve party tickets available from 1st December

Call 0116 2671038 or visit www.thewhitehorsebirstall.co.uk for more details

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

Inspiring artwork Cycle path extended A SECTION of new cyclepath that connects Watermead Country Park and Cossington has been completed. It marks the final stage of the Connect 2 lottery funded project that has seen paths, bridges and access points improved in the park. The new section runs beside the river starting from the Hope and Anchor pub on Wanlip Road heading north to Cossington.

A TWO METRE steel sculpture that aims to represent new hope and past achievements has been unveiled outside Longslade’s Palmer Tomkinson Centre. Commissioned to celebrate the Centre’s first anniversary, the sculpture was designed by Longslade’s Head of Art Cath Kinder and is covered in words cut out from the steel structure. Cath said: “I worked with students across the college to choose language which inspired them. The words which they chose demonstrate the value which they place on education and community

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spirit. The use of text, written or verbal, has been a significant feature of artists’ practices since the early 20th century. Words have been used in multiple ways as narrative, as instruction, as statement, as sculpture, in literary and poetic forms, as recorded speech and as the matter or object of the artwork itself. I wanted to have something very visual and tactile but with combined language and subtext to reflect the different aspects of college life – something physical but also academic.” She added: “We hope that the sculpture will express the values and ethos of students, staff and the wider community in a way that demonstrates our commitment to education and all that it encompasses. As it weathers and changes with the seasons, we hope it will be contemplated and enjoyed for many years to come.” The cost of the sculpture was £7000 and was included in the overall budget of the £4.8million Palmer Tomkinson Centre.

College coffee morning STAFF AND students at Longslade College took part in Macmillan Cancer World’s Biggest Coffee Morning in September. They sold cakes and hot drinks and raised £101. Debby Chambers, Post 16 Learning Mentor, said: “A huge thank you to all those who baked cakes, helped sell them and all those who bought or made a donation.” Pic: Students Joe Dolby, Michael Adams & Emily Spence

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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

Boy punched and phone stolen A TEENAGE BOY was punched in the face and robbed on Wanlip Lane. The incident happened at around 9pm on Friday October 5, 2012 when the two victims aged 14 and 15 were walking along Wanlip Lane. They noticed a group of youths walk from Lambourne Road onto Wanlip Lane towards them. The group of youths, who are described as white and aged around 16 to 17-years-old, approached them and one of the group punched the 15-year-old victim in the face. He was then kicked before the group made off with a Blackberry Curve mobile phone and black BMW bike back onto Lambourne Road. Detective Constable Phil Lilley, the investigating officer, said: “Thankfully the assaulted boy was not seriously injured but they are both obviously keen

for the return of their property. “We are trying to locate a group of people who had been passing and came to their aid. They may have information about the assault or who was responsible so we would urge them to get on touch. “I would also like to talk to anyone who saw what happened or knows someone who has recently acquired this property.” Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to contact DC 1551 Phil Lilley on 101, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer's identification number 1551. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, which is free and anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

Helping hand in park BANK WORKERS swapped their desks for pitchforks when they spent a day grafting at Watermead Country Park. Royal Bank of Scotland employees helped county council rangers carry out an annual task in the Reedbed Nature Reserve’s wildflower meadow. Members of staff from the Leicester branch helped rake all the cut vegetation into rows before forking it onto a trailer to transport to a habitat pile. A Leicestershire County council spokesman said: “We are grateful for the support of the Royal Bank of Scotland in helping us complete this important task in time for the autumn. It is good to see local businesses rolling up their sleeves and lending a hand at one of our top beauty spots.” In 2011 staff at the Royal Bank of Scotland gave more than 16,000 hours of their time through their one day volunteering programme and helped over 470 wining charities and projects as part of their community force initiative. Regular conservation volunteer days are

Cemetery records FRIENDS OF Belgrave Cemetery have released their new CD of the Belgrave Cemetery Records. It has taken seven years of painstaking research by volunteer members Joy May and Bob Horner to complete. At a small quiet presentation during the Leicester and Rutland Family History Day at Parklands Leisure Centre, Oadby, both Joy and Bob were presented with flowers and gifts from the appreciative group by John Dixey, Deputy Chairman of the Friends, watched by other members of the group and also members of the

public who were not only waiting for help with their cemetery research but also keen to purchase the new CD. There are 15,000 entries on the CD, which costs £9.99. Anyone wishing to purchase a CD can do so via the website www.friendsofbelgravecemetery.org.uk or from group members who are at the cemetery most Sunday mornings. Pic: John Dixie, Joy May & Bob Horner

MICHAEL 7 Sibson Road, Birstall. Tel: 2674003

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held at Watermead. To find out more visit: www.leics.gov.uk/watermead_volunteer or call Chris Conway on 0116 3057937.

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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

YOUR SAY...

raise £660.10 for LOROS. The following people were lucky in the raffle: C Hill (won the quilt), C Face, K Allen, Lata, S Noble, P Gregory, P Potter and G Bowler Christine Hewson, Secretary

Glue traps

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

I have noticed that a few shops still sell Glue Traps for catching vermin. I would like to warn people against purchasing them as they are cruel and inhumane not only for the intended victims, but they can also trap other species such as birds and pets who unwittingly stand on them. They die slow lingering deaths unable to move and unable to get to any food or water. If you wish to get rid of pests please use humane ways or failing that, seek advice from an expert as a last resort. Hopefully shopkeepers will read this and dispose of them sensibly and notify their suppliers of the dangers. Mrs H Johnson

Thanks

Wool

A big thank you to all those who helped at and supported our Fundraising Coffee Shop at Birstall Methodist Church on Saturday September 29. We raised a grand total of £212 for LOROS. Thank you very much. Gillian Bowler and David Green

The KGB (Knitting Guerillas of Birstall) wish to rally as many secret agents as possible for their next woolly mission. Special agents Troutmask and Niddynoddy are after knitted/crocheted/woven woolly squares of any size over 20cms x 20cms - the bigger the better. Also baubles golf ball size or bigger This is an important part of the mission, the colour must be predominantly purple with some hints of silver here and there. If you would like to help, and we advise you do if you want to see many smiles on the faces of the good folk of Birstall, then get cracking. Go on, you know you want to and, guess what crafting, and making folk smile, is really good for your wellbeing! Please submit your woolly delights to Birstall Methodist Church FAO: KGB via David Bark or contact us via our website at http://kgb-123.blogspot.com The KGB

Thanks Elizabeth Gow and family would like to thank all their friends and neighbours for the kind wishes and beautiful cards sent on the death of Stuart a very dear husband and father. We very much appreciate your care and support. Elizabeth Gow

Thanks Birstall Quilters would like to thank everyone who supported our Coffee Morning on October 13. You helped us

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Not closing I want to reassure all my customers that the business, J Michael Meat Purveyors, is not closing and I look forward to trading through the Christmas period and into the New Year. It is my wish to retire after 50 years in this business, hopefully in 2013, and I hope it will continue under new ownership thus continuing 76 years trading as a family butchers. The smiling faces of Paul, Kathy, Sally and Trevor will still be seen by all. Please continue to support us. Happy Christmas. David Michael M.D. J Michael Ltd.

Thanks At the beginning of the new school term our daughter was knocked down by a car, just outside Greengate surgery, whilst on her way home from school. A “kind man” (in our daughter’s words) carried her into the surgery, but left without giving his name. We would just like to thank him very much for stopping to help and getting medical help for her quickly. We would like to thank him personally if he’s willing to contact us through the Birstall Post. We would also like to thank all our daughter’s lovely friends who were so concerned about her and have sent their good wishes as well as flowers and cards. Last, but not least, our thanks to the Longslade students who stopped to help at the scene, comforting the younger children and making sure they were safe, as well as contacting us: they definitely deserve the praise they have received. Maria & Chris Middleton

Dog owners Recently it seems that dog owners that walk their dogs around the Far Pastures Rd stretch and around the pond area have lost all respect for the owners of properties and the people that have to use the surrounding roads and paths. Dogs are pooing on people’s front gardens and along the path that runs along Far Pastures Rd, around the pond and even in the middle of the road. Once I even saw the owner watching his poodle like dog pooing right in the middle of the road and do nothing about it. Is it possible to get some signs put up about dog owners responsibilities and the fines that they could face if they do not clean up after their dogs? Concerned Resident

Speeding I walk to school every day along Greengate Lane and see drivers going way too fast. I read in the Post that the County Council would like to increase the speed limit along part of it. They say this is an attempt to get drivers to slow down further along the road but to me it looks like rewarding those bad drivers who are currently speeding when they come into Greengate Lane. When people are trying to encourage their children to do more exercise and walk to school it seems wrong to tell drivers to go faster on a crossing that is already dangerous. Surely it would make more sense to lower the speed limit around the whole junction, including the A6? It might add a few seconds to drivers’ journeys but it could save lives. Mae Pugsley Birch

Noticeboard all details printed free St James the Great, Church Hill, Birstall

All Souls Service on Sunday November 4 at 3pm 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 Friends of Bishop Ellis present

Christmas Fair 2012 Sat December 1, from 2-4.30pm at Bishop Ellis School, Thurmaston We need your help Can you bake a cake? Run a stall? Donate a prize? Contact us on fobe@bishopellis.leics.sch.uk Come & join in the festive fun Victorian swing boats, children’s carousel, craft & gift stalls, Santa’s Grotto, tombola, raffle, Irish coffees, festive hot food, Christmas carols, Marwood Brass Band & much much more Rothley Church

Christmas Market on Saturday December 1, from 3-5.30pm Old School Rooms, School Street & Rothley Church A really welcoming event for all the community Christmas tree competition Various stalls, gifts, toys and games, cakes etc, raffle School Choir & Handbell Ringers Refreshments, mince pies, hot dogs etc Donations to Rainbows & Rothley Church Admission free

Art Exhibition & Craft Fair Individual pieces of art work and hand made gifts & cards at Rothley Centre, Saturday December 1, from 10am to 4pm Free entry – tea & homemade cakes available Charnwood Branch of Cancer Research UK

Christmas Crackers on Saturday December 1 at 7.30pm in Rothley Centre Join us for an evening of light entertainment including music from the ‘rat pack’ by Jonathan Tickets £10 inc light supper & a welcoming drink of mulled wine Contact number for tickets or further information

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

Jan 0116 2674746 or Brenda 0116 2302766 Charnwood Conservative Association

Christmas Fair Saturday December 8 at Rothley Centre, 10am – 12noon Admission 50p Rt Hon Stephen Dorrell will be attending Raffle, tombola, books, produce stalls, games, Santa’s grotto, bric-a-brac etc ••• Phase Arts Theatre School A special performance celebrating

the Magic of Disney Sunday December 2 at 6pm The Palmer-Tomkinson Theatre, Longslade College, Birstall Tickets £5 adult; £4 children (discounts available for children/yp’s groups) Box Office: Tel/Text 07974333890 E: phase.arts@hotmail.co.uk If you would like to know more about our group or register for a free trial class, please contact us as above or visit www.phasearts.co.uk Belgrave Ladies Bowling Club Thurcaston Road, next to Rugby Club

Autumn Fayre Saturday November 17, from 10am to 12noon Homemade cakes, garden produce, books, jigsaws, nearly new clothes (inc bowling gear), tombola, raffle, and more Tea/Coffee Entrance 25p All welcome

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.

Book Sale Grab a bargain at Birstall library Sat Nov 3 to Sat Nov 10 The library is selling off older stock to make way for new, both adult and children’s stock will be available at bargain prices Drop in during normal library opening hours and see if there is anything for you

Birstall Royal British Legion Nov 3: Max (M/V) Nov 10: Slaters (M/Duo) Nov 17: Cherry Pink (F/V) Nov 24: Trev Budgie Walton (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 9.15pm Quiz nights Sunday Nov 11 & 25, starting at 9pm Acoustic night Sunday Nov 18 Rock & Roll nights Wednesday Nov 7 & 21 Food available every Saturday, 12-2pm Wakes catered for

Ibstock Brick Brass Band Once again your favourite brass band is back to entertain you Nov 4 at St James Church at

Film Presentations From Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council ‘War Horse’ Friday November 9 (146 mins) Michael Morpurgo’s moving story has been played on stage for over four years being set amid the backdrop of the First World War. Steven Spielberg’s film centres on the close connection between a young boy and his horse, Joey. Tom Middleton plays a debonair cavalry officer who buys Joey to ride him into battle. There is hope, courage and perseverance surrounding this one horse. ‘The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’ Friday December 14 (124 mins) There are tears and laughter in this hilarious but touching drama about growing old disgracefully. Evelyn, played by Judi Dench, determines to start a new life in Jaipur and meets other retirees who are also aiming for this luxurious retirement home but disappointment awaits. The teeming streets of Rajistan burst with colour and vitality, a fitting setting for our film, amid our preparations for Christmas. Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council will be showing these

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7.30pm Entrance £5, pay on the door Come along for a good night’s entertainment with all your favourite tunes Birstall Methodist Women’s Group

Singing for fun with Anne Hughes Methodist Church at 7.30pm on Friday November 7 Free admission Donations welcome towards our charity Motor Neurone Disease Association Leics and Rutland Branch Contact Margaret on 0116 2671181 for more information ••• CLASH Community Leicestershire

Arthritis Self Help Monthly meeting at Palmer Tomkinson Centre Wed November 14, 7-9pm Getting to know your drugs/medication, Mr Shezad Alimahomed, pharmacist CLASH E-Learning for Beginners at Palmer Tomkinson Centre Thursday November 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 from 3.30-4.30pm We look forward to seeing you ••• Leicester Symphony Orchestra 90th Concert Season

a Gala Evening with Dame Evelyn Glennie Saturday November 10 7.30pm at De Montfort Hall Conductor: John Andrews Percussion: Dame Evelyn Glennie Free pre-concert talk with Dame Evelyn Glennie at 6.30pm Full price £12/£15/£18 Children age 17 and under £5 Concessions available Tickets available from De Montfort

Hall Box Office 0116 233 3111 Leicester Symphony Orchestra Ticket Secretary: Nigel Moore, 07971 991622 E: nigel.moore@moorelarge.co.uk Crowsnest, Woodshop Lane, Swarkestone, Derby DE73 7JA Please note that there are no booking fees for buying tickets direct from the LSO there will be £3 transaction charge if bought from DMH box office via phone, on line or in person) www.leicestersymphonyorchestra. co.uk

Cheeky Cherubs Parent & toddler group every Monday at Birstall Methodist Wanlip Lane from 10am to 12noon 0-4 yr olds, teas & coffees for parents, snacks & juice for kids, please feel free to just come along, no weekly commitment, only £2 + 50p for additional children. Also on Monday Oct 29, 9.30am 12noon, Louise Kelham will be here, brilliant photos, great playgroup prices, again no commitment but make fantastic Christmas presents. Hope to see you there Any questions please call Paula on 07934551563 Save the Children Please come to the

Coffee Morning at the Methodist Coffee Shop, Wanlip Lane on Sunday Nov 3, from 10am to 12noon Various stalls 200 Club St James Day Centre 1st Mrs Muriel Collis

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

2nd

Mrs Marjorie Cannon Miss Margaret Willows 4th Mrs Thelma Lane 3rd

St James Church Sunday School An exciting programme of bible stories, music, arts, crafts, drama and lots more every Sunday (except the 1st of the month) All ages of children and young people welcome Sundays 10-11am Just turn up or telephone Rose Parrott 07811662235 or go on www.Birstall.org

Birstall & District Local History Society The next meeting will be held on Thursday November 8 at 7.30pm in the Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall The talk will be ‘Canal Boat People’ Speaker Wendy Freer Visitors are very welcome Highcliffe Amateur Theatrical Society presents

Rapunzel A pantomime by Philippa Smith at Highcliffe School, Greengate Lane, Birstall Thursday & Friday Nov 29 & 30 & Saturday Dec 1 at 7.15pm, also on Saturday Dec 1 at 2.30pm Tickets are £6 (£5 concs) and may be obtained from the box office Tel: 2676049 or 07757854719 or by email to hatsbirstall1@hotmail.co.uk

Beetle Drive and Patient Information Day The Leicester Stoma Care Nurses invite you to a combined Beetle Drive and Patient Information Day Open to anyone who has a stoma (guest included) Thursday Nov 29, 10.30 start – 12.30 approx Refreshments available Regency Hotel, 360 London Road Stoneygate LE2 2PL Ring 0116 2585184 to book a place on this unique social event (places limited) Birstall Birdwatching Club presents

75 years at Rectory Farm by Phil Johnson Rothley is losing its farmland at an alarming rate, with Birstall already decimated, so it is easy to think that no-one cares about farms and the part they play in the preservation of our wildlife. Rectory Farm, on the edge of Eyebrook Reservoir, is proof of a successful farm and habitat creation for all kinds of wildlife. With all of this, the birds also benefit and Phil will tell us how his working farm has been managed to include hedgehogs and bees. Peanuts and seed on sale. Tuesday November 13

Christmas DIY with Christmas Cheer by Our Members Everyone welcome to this informal meeting when members bring their photographic or conversational talents which are intermingled with cheese straws, mince pies and other surprises brought along by our members and visi-

tors. Just come and see what our members have been doing this past year in their pursuit of wildlife. Tuesday December 11 Both evenings at 7.30pm at The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Visitors welcome £2 Contact Ken Goodrich 0116 2674813 St Theresa’s

Christmas Bazaar Sat December 15 11am till 3pm in St Theresa’s Church Hall Front Street Stalls to include cake stall, bottle tombola, raffle, preserves & many more to delight you Tea, coffee & hot soup will be available All proceeds to St Theresa’s Church funds Christmas Charity

Family Disco at Birstall Social Club December 14 from 7.30-11.30pm In aid of Leicestershire Parents Diabetes Group, Carl Gunns’ Boxing Gym In loving memory of Chris Norman (1990-2012) Entertainment by Jack in the Box Costume Hire & Disco This is a ticket only event For tickets and information please contact Paula on 07934 5541563 £1 child, £5 adult The Latimer Players are performing

‘Mother Goose’ a traditional family pantomime, suitable for all ages Follow Mother Goose, her family and village friends and see how she turns from, rags to riches with the help of Candy, the goose who lays golden eggs. You are invited to join in with the boos and hisses and all the songs November 22,23 & 24 at 7.30pm and Saturday matinee at 2.30pm in the Memorial Hall, Anstey Lane, Thurcaston LE7 7JA Tickets available from Anna Lacey, 121 Leicester Road, Thurcaston LE7 7JL All seats £6.50 each

Zumbathon Charity Class & Raffle Prizes Tuesday Nov 27, from 6.157.30pm £5 Class Entry & Raffle Ticket Longslade College Sports Hall, Wanlip Lane All proceeds donated to Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital If you are a local business and would like to donate a raffle prize for such a great charity please call Lisa on 07850 759170 Spread the word, the more people the more money we raise!

Look out for Santa! Weather permitting the Wreake Valley Rotary Club Santa Sleigh will be visiting Birstall on the following evenings in December: Wed Dec 19: Fielding Rd/Walnut Ave side of the A6 Thurs Dec 20: Wanlip Lane, Gwendolen Ave, Dalby Ave area and surrounding roads So, look out for Santa and come out to say hello! All monies collected go to local charities. For further details please see www.wreakevalleyrotary.org.uk

Netmums meets up at Birstall Methodist Church, Wanlip Lane, Birstall Low key meet ups to provide friendship and chat for parents & carers Children welcome 10am-12noon, last Tues each month except Aug & Dec Next date November 27 Hope to see you there! Feel free to get in touch in advance Jacqui & Georgie jacqui@netmums.com www.netmums.com

Oh Whistle… Supernatural tales by M R James, master of the English ghost story The Nunkie Theatre Company Sunday Nov 25 at 7pm Humphrey Perkins Community Centre, Cotes Road, Barrow £8, £7 (con) Box Office: 07718153117 judithrodgers155@gmail.com

Alice in Wonderland Barrow Youth Theatre A junior musical Friday Nov 16: 7.30pm Saturday Nov 17: 2pm & 7.30pm Humphrey Perkins Community Centre, Cotes Road, Barrow £7 & £5 (concess) A fresh & colourful production with a talented young cast Box Office: 07718153117 judithrodgers155@gmail.com Wanlip Church and Community Centre,

Christmas Fair To be held at the Hall on Saturday December 1 between 10am and 12.30pm Entrance free Stalls include plants, bottle tombola, cakes, books, bric-a-brac, raffle and others Refreshments available Proceeds in aid of continued upgrading of the Hall’s facilities

Knit2gether Group Birstall Last Wed of every month at the White Horse Pub in Birstall, from 7.30pm Next meeting Wed Nov 28 Last month we participated in Wellbeing Wednesday, a celebration of how taking part in arts and

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

cultural activities can contribute to your wellbeing. All are welcome to join in our social knitting and crochet group. Meet like minded friends and learn about participating in public art projects. There’s no charge to join and we don’t provide materials or equipment as the group is currently unfunded – we welcome donations of wool or sponsorship! For more info contact Lisa Pidgeon at www.litlebirdsos.co.uk or call/text 07760232059. For more info on Wellbeing Wednesday go to www.leicestershirewellbeing.co.uk Birstall

Christmas Lights Switch on and Christmas Market Friday December 7, 6pm Sibson Road car park Carol singing, free mince pie and mulled wine, fairground rides Fireworks display 8.30pm School Lane playing field Birstall Methodist Church Wanlip Lane, Birstall Friday Nov 23, 10am-7pm Saturday Nov 24, 10am-2pm

Christmas Festival ‘Jubilation’ Church decorated Admission £1 (accompanied children free) Friday, 10am-7pm Outdoor Christmas Market Home-made cakes, pies, biscuits, preserves Christmas gifts, novelties & decorations Hot dogs, punch, pancakes, soup Games, tombola, raffle Saturday, 10am to 2pm Table Top Sale Refreshments served throughout the event Light lunches Fri/Sat, 12noon1.30pm

Birstall Royal British Legion

Remembrance Sunday Parade and Service Sunday Nov 11, 10am Parade begins on Front Street, then Wanlip Lane, Birstall Road, Church Hill, followed by service at St James, then wreath laying at the War Memorial. Formation in the parade include The Royal British Legion Birstall Branch and Women’s Section, the RAFA, Air Training Corps, Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, St John’s Ambulance Brigade, Boys Brigade and Girls Brigade Birstall St James Church Social Group Invite you to a

will be published on Dec 1. The copy deadline is Nov 16.

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Choice Unlimited Information, ideas, innovation, services, products, education & employment for young people, parents, carers and professionals Choice Unlimited welcomes all young people, their parents, carers, teachers as well as service providers We offer a special welcome to disabled young people and young people with additional needs which many of the exhibitors will cater for Leicester Tigers Stadium, Aylestone Rd, Leicester LE2 7TR Wednesday Nov 21 10am to 6pm Free entry – please register your

at Syston Methodist Church Hall Nov 17, 1.30-5pm 50p entry (u12 free) over 30 stalls of unique gifts kids’ face painting plus coffee shop with homemade cakes on sale Come along and get stocked up for Christmas Win a Christmas hamper in the raffle

Nov 23, 7-9.30pm at The Rothley Centre, Rothley over 40 stalls, of unique gifts and pampering Tickets £4 in advance, £5 on the door inc complementary drink Chance to win a Christmas Hamper in the raffle Tickets: 07951656941 or 07875979058

THE BIRSTALL POST

and Cream Tea on Sunday Nov 25 at 2.30pm Birstall Village Hall, School Lane Cost £3

Gift Fair

Pamper Evening

The December issue of

Quiz Afternoon

Syston Christmas

Rothley Christmas

interest There will be a huge choice of exhibitors who will be covering • accommodation • education & training • employment • health & wellbeing • lifestyle & leisure • support & advice • transport & motability • volunteering To register your interest and to find out more tel: 0116 285 9440; SMS:07910 864 594; Email:events@lcil.org.uk; Website: www.lcil.org.uk; Twitter:@ChoiceUnLtd Visit us on Facebook

Rak Tailor Home Improvements Fitted kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms & flatpack Tiling (walls & floor) Laminate floors laid Internal & external doors hung Fencing & gates Home & garden furniture made to order Decorating

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Pistol target shoot REDHILL REVOLVERS hosted the Riley Classic Cup at the Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre. 33 people shot from a range of 6m and 10m using a 1950’s Webley Junior and a 1960’s Webley Tempest. For club information visit www.redhillrevolvers.co.uk Pic: (l-r) David Bourgault (Birstall) 88 points the winner Bernard Harris (Leicester) 106 points and in 3rd place Steve Hancock (Chesterfield) 83 points

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

NHW news

& crime report Win a TV Simulator A TV Simulator is an ideal way of fooling potential burglars when you are away from home. This little box, when switched on, simulates the flickering glow of a television. In most situations this will discourage burglars, who will think twice before breaking into a house which is occupied. TV Simulators can be ordered from Birstall Neighbourhood Watch Saturday Advice Shops at a cost of £20. However, here is your opportunity to win one for your home. Just answer the four simple questions about Birstall and Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch: 1. How often are the Saturday Advice Shops held? 2. What is the telephone helpline number for the watch? 3. When was the first watch scheme in Birstall started?

4. In what year was the Birstall and Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch named the Best Scheme in the Country Write your four answers on a post card, together with your name, address and telephone number and either post in the NHW post box in the Parish Council Office or drop it in at the next Saturday Advice Shop on November 17, 2012. Alternatively you can email your answers and your contact details to watch@villagewatch.co.uk Closing Date for the competition is Monday December 10, 2012. The winner will be the first correct entry drawn at the Saturday Advice Shop on December 15. The winner will be notified after this date. Good luck! From Birstall & Wanlip NHW

the team. The Roads Policing Unit monitored Greengate Lane for HGVs on October 3 between 1125 and 1340. Three HGVs were seen and letters sent to the operating companies. Between 1535 and 1700 no HGVs were seen. On October 4 an HGV was stopped on Greengate Lane, driven by a disqualified driver. He was arrested and the vehicle seized. From PC 2139 Richard Carruthers, PCSO 6611 Mark Butler, PC 1276 Keith James and PCSO 6595 Alex Bierne

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Crime Report: Sep 10 – Oct 8, 2012 Assaults 3, harassment 1, burglary 1, burglary non-dwelling 3, damage 4, damage to motor vehicle 2, drugs 4, fraud 1, public order 3, robbery 2, theft 6, theft from motor vehicle 4, theft of motor vehicle 3, theft stores 3. Burglaries are significantly lower than the last few months. The beat team welcomes PCSO Alex Bierne to

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Drone protestors’ walk CAMPAIGNERS AGAINST drone strikes stopped off in Birstall as part of a week long Peace Walk. Organised by the Drone Campaign Network the walkers stopped at Birstall Methodist coffee shop on their 90 mile walk from the West Midlands to Lincoln. The walkers were greeted by a local singing group Sing Your Heart Out! from

Syston The Peace Walk was organised to raise awareness about the increasing use of armed unmanned military aircraft, or drones, in targeted killings in countries such as Pakistan.

Greater freedom to get involved A NEW law that gives local authorities greater freedom to engage in community activities has been adopted by Birstall Parish Council. The General Power of Competence is part of the Localism Act 2011. It frees the council to engage in any lawful activity to promote or improve the economic, social or environmental wellbeing of any part of their area. The Department for Communities and Local Government says: “Local authorities’ power and responsibilities are defined by legislation. In simple terms, they can only do what the law says they can. “Sometimes councils are wary of doing something new – even if they think it might be a good idea – because they are not sure whether they are allowed to in law, and are concerned about the possibility of being challenged in the courts. “The Government [with the Local-

ism Act 2011] has turned this assumption upside down. Instead of being able to act only where the law says they can, local authorities will be freed to do anything, provided they do not break other laws. “It gives them freedom to do creative, innovative things to meet local people’s needs.” The Act recognises that councils may begin to engage in activities that put tax payers’ money at risk. Examples of activities that councils might engage in include running post offices, pubs or shops, providing broadband or starting Credit Unions. Critics of the scheme say it may give councils an unfair trading advantage over their private sector competitors.

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

SOME OF THE artwork created by members of Birstall & District Art Society and displayed at their annual exhibition in the Village Hall.

Pic: Society members Margaret Pritchard, Fred Parrott and Sue Phipps

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

Plan now includes 2000 local homes PLANS TO build 2000 homes and an employment site on land north of Birstall have moved a step closer.

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Club’s cash FUNDRAISING BY St Margaret’s Bowls Club has raised £1116 for a children’s hospice. Rainbows was the charity chosen by 2012 President Roz Harris who raised £200 herself with a sponsored swim. Pic: Sheila Moore, Julie from Rainbows and Roz Harris

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In September Charnwood Borough Council’s cabinet agreed to include the site in its Local Plan Core Strategy. This will set out the areas for development in the Borough that are required to meet Government targets for housing and employment. The detailed plan will not be ready until March 2013 when it will be considered by the cabinet. The development will occupy the former Bentleys Roses site. Parish Council Chairman Pat Cleere said: “I am sorry that if this goes ahead we will be losing more of our countryside. I would like to know what residents think about it. If it does happen we want to make sure we can get as much out of it for Birstall from the developers as we can.” Charnwood’s report into the proposals, prepared by the Strategic Director of Housing, Planning and Regeneration Cllr Matthew Blain, states that: • the site will be highly attractive to investors due to direct access to the strategic road network • it provides an opportunity to locate new jobs with new homes • the A46 is likely to be a major barrier to integration with Birstall [the site is in the Parish of Wanlip] • the development will have a “moderate” impact on the settlement separation of Birstall, Rothley and Wanlip that can be “mitigated through master planning”. • potential for some impact on the wider road network which may be difficult to mitigate.

Birstall park & ride THE USE of Birstall park and ride is increasing slowly but needs to grow further if the service is to break even. In June, July and August 248 people a day used the service, which equates to 6500 journeys a month. In its first year of operation there were 5760 journeys a month. 28,050 a month are needed for the service, which is combined with the Enderby park and ride, to break even, The £5.2million, 1000 space facility, opened in July 2011. The operating costs for 2012/13 are estimated at £486,000. The service is run jointly by the City and County Councils. It runs Monday to Saturday, 7am to 7pm every 15 minutes. Day tickets are £3, a six month ticket is £250 and a 12 month ticket is £470. Passengers with an older person’s pass travel free after 9.30am

TO ROTHLEY

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HALLAM FIELDS PARK & RIDE The landowners are the Palmer-Tomkinson Trust and the Antony Cooper family. They have already drawn up plans for a “high quality settlement” called the Broadnook Garden Suburb. They say they are ready to start building in the first quarter of 2014 if approval is given.

Re-usable cloth bags A GROUP of volunteers who make re-usable cloth bags using donated fabric are appealing for new members. The Charnwood group of Morsbags meet at Greenacres, next to the GCR Leicester North Station on The Sidings The bags are given away free at local events, to encourage the use of re-usable bags instead of plastic carrier bags. Morsbags.com is a global not-forprofit organisation and in Leicestershire alone more than 25,000 bags have been made and given away. The Morsbags Charnwood Pod was launched on September 19 and the next meeting will be on November 28 from 12.30pm onwards. Spokeswoman Lisa Pidgeon said: “We need volunteers to help with this worthwhile initiative. It is not just sewing, we need helpers to cut out, seam press, sew, and help give away the morsbags. “We also have a fabric drop off box at the Greenacres Centre if you have any unwanted fabric remnants or curtains – sorry, no clothes.” If you would like to become a volunteer for Morsbags Charnwood Pod call Lisa on 07760 232059 or via Facebook : Morsbags Charnwood Pod

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

Church news November highlights November often seems one of the gloomiest months and autumn seems to have arrived earlier than ever this year, but there are plenty of reasons to get out this month and enjoy the company of others. To start the month there is a Save the Children coffee morning at the Methodist Church coffee shop from 10am to 2pm on Saturday November 4. Why not support a very deserving cause and meet some friends? Then how about an evening with the Ibstock Brass Band at St. James on Sunday 4th at 7.30pm, to blow away the blues? In altogether more serious mood, on Sunday the 4th we remember loved ones who have died, at the simple, short All Souls service in the afternoon at 3pm. On the following Sunday the 11th, the annual British Legion Remembrance Day service will begin at St. James at 10.30am, when the fallen of two world wars (and many battles since then) will be commemorated with solemnity and pride. To start you thinking The speakers at the two women’s groups at St. James have both chosen interesting and intriguing topics this month. The Monday Group, which meets in the Day Centre at the Village Hall on November 12 at 7.30pm, will be welcoming Sue Ablett to talk about “Looking for tigers in India” - visitors are welcome to the meeting. The Mothers’ Union also welcomes visitors on Friday November 23 in St James Community area at 7.45pm, to hear Rev. Julie Ann Heath, with a talk entitled “Once upon a time…unlock theology through storytelling and a lipstick”! The Churches’ annual Quiz afternoon with cream tea has become has become very popular. This year it will be held at 2.30pm on Sunday afternoon November 25 in the Village Hall. Christmas on the horizon Some events in early December to put in your diary: On Saturday December 1 the annual Wanlip Christmas Fair will be held from 10am to 12.30pm in Wanlip Church Hall and Community Centre, with a variety of stalls, and refreshments available. On Sunday December 2 the Churches Together Advent service will be held at the Methodist church at 6pm For a whole week, starting after the morning service on Dec 2, St James church will be transformed once again into a road near Jerusalem for a “Journey to Bethlehem”. Children from primary schools in the area will be visiting the church through the week to take part in an inter-active adventure, which takes them on a journey to meet some of the travellers, who were on their way to Bethlehem in the days before Jesus was born. To judge by the children’s comments when this event last took place two years ago, they will find this a different and exciting experience. From Beryl McHugh, Parish Church

Christmas Festival The 2012 Christmas Festival takes place on Friday November 23 and Saturday 24. It follows a similar pattern to previous years, but is open for longer this year. In this Jubilee year and the Olympic Games it takes up a theme of ‘Jubilation’. Opening at 10am on both days, there will be much to see and many stalls including Home-made cakes, pies, biscuits, preserves, Christmas gifts, novelties & decorations hot dogs, punch, pancakes, soup games, tombola, raffle etc. The Saturday stalls will be a Table Top Sale when various local crafts will be for sale, the vendors having rented the table space for the day. Admission to see the static displays is £1. Accompanied children are free, and there is a Santas Grotto too. There is no charge to see the stalls. Coffee Shop Proceeds The coffee shop which is open every Tuesday to Friday from 10am to noon is staffed by volunteers from the village, mostly (but not entirely) from the Methodist, Anglican & Catholic communities. They have decided to give the surplus money to the following groups and organisations: £1500 for medical supplies in the Gambia, £1000 to Rainbows, £1000 to LOROS, £700 towards the roof at Birstall Scouts HQ, and £700 to ‘Wishes 4 kids’. Harrison Road Regular worshippers are reminded there is no Service at Birstall on November 18. There is to be a Circuit Service at Harrison Road Church (Top of Marfitt Street) and the service will start at 10.30am. Parking will be available nearby. Cliff Richard Tribute Act On Saturday November 3 Will Chandler, the UK’s number 1 Sir Cliff Richard tribute Act, will present a superb evening of entertainment in aid of the Bark Foundation supporting HOTPEC Orphanage. Tickets are £10 (Tel 2677576). Charnwood Toys On The Table Appeal At the Family Service will be held on December 2 gifts will be received to brighten up Christmas for the less fortunate children of Charnwood. Why not buy a child a Christmas present or give a good quality used toy as you select your gifts for others this Christmas. If you cannot get to the service, then do leave your gift at the coffee shop, with a label for the Toys on the Table Appeal. From Tony Moore, Birstall Methodist Church Craft Fair Early Notice We will again be attending the village’s Christmas Craft Fair in the Village

Café opens for younger children YOUNG PEOPLE aged 8-11 are being invited to attend Birstall’s Youth Café on the School Lane playing field. The free Wednesday evening sessions, from 6-9pm, will be launched at an Open Evening on Wednesday November 7. Sue Coulson from Birstall Parish Council said: “We would like to invite all parents and young people aged 8 to 11 to come along and see what the youth café has to offer. Staff will be available on the night to answer any questions.” The Youth Café is a Parish Council project that started in 2009 following a consultation process with young people. Originally provided for 12-19 year olds, the Parish Council is now offering Wednesday evenings for the 8-11 age group for a trial period of six months.

The Friday evening session for 12-19s from 7-10pm will continue. Birstall Youth Café is located in the sports pavilion of the School Lane playing field. Activities and facilities offered free include: • Arts & Crafts • Foods from around the world Cooking • Table tennis • Pool tournaments • Flower arranging • Hair & Beauty • Air Hockey table • Wii • Karaoke • Tuck Shop

Hall on Friday December 7, with calendars, Christmas cards, books and crafts from The Lodge Trust (which provides Christian care for adults with learning difficulties). Further details next month. Services Our visiting speaker for November 18 is Paul Linnell from Wigston. This service, as usual, will be held in the Community Room at Highcliffe Primary School (LE4 3DL) at 10.45am and you will be most welcome to join us for this or any of our Sunday services. For further information please ring 0116 2214883. From Anne Taylor, Birstall Independent Baptist Church

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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

Local money course CAP Money is a free course devised by charity Christians Against Poverty which trains churches to help people learn how to set a household budget and stick to it. It challenges people to live without relying on credit cards, tackle existing financial problems and save for a stable future. It has been found to be useful for all ages from newly retired people, to soonto-be students, families saving for a forthcoming wedding and people with loans and debts who want to get straight. The first CAP Money course in Birstall was run during September at St James. “Six people attended, all of whom appeared to find the course useful. Everyone took an active part in the course and there was much laughter!” said a spokesman. After the course one of the delegates wrote: “Before the course I didn’t know where I was financially. I wanted to know where all my money was going. After the course I feel very confident and organised. Using cash has enabled me to keep track of my spending…..I found it a very simple, easy to follow course, which can give you confidence in dealing with your finances and enhance your lifestyle giving you peace of mind.” Each of the three sessions follows a similar structure: an introduction followed by watching the DVD provided by CAP. Then a break for refreshments. The DVD usually sparks off discussion, which culminates in a couple of exercises to help clarify some of the ideas put forward in the DVD. The next course will be run just before Christmas: 7.30 – 9.30pm, Monday Nov 19 , 26 and Dec 3 in the Community Area at St James Church, Church Hill, Birstall. If you’re interested in attending please contact Gill Chester on 0116 2120236 (email:gill.chester@ntlworld.com) or Lesley Walton on 01162674995 (email: lp.walton@ntlworld.com) PETE INGHAM Plastering & Property Maintenance

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Club finishes season Counselling with Spanish tour service BIRSTALL BOWLING Club’s outdoor season has finished, with the highlight being Pa Walker, Jan Everitt, Jennie Groves and Diane Hurst being crowned Champions of England in the Ladies National Fours competition. The club competition finals took place throughout September and the winners are below. Ladies Winners: Championship: Pa Walker, Runner Up: Jan Everitt Handicap: Val Ross, Runner Up: Anne Boden Maiden: Angie Parkin, Runner Up: Barbara Mullins Three Wood: Val Ross, Runner Up: Di Hartop Two Wood: Val Ross, Runner Up: Barbara Muillins Pairs: Cynthia Chapman & Barbara Mullins, Runners Up: Gill Henderson & Val Ross Edith Smith Pairs: Sheila Jenkins & Pa Walker, Runners Up: Anne Boden & Margaret Freeman Fielding & Everitt Cups: Barbara Mullins, Runner Up: Val Ross Men’s winners: Championship: Andy Wye, Runner Up: Tom Cowles Handicap: Stuart Hartop, Runner Up: John Eaton Maiden: Gary Norman, Runner Up: John Jenkins Three Wood: Dave Clarke, Runner Up: John Walker Two Wood: Dave Clarke, Runner Up:

Andy Wye Pairs: Roger Wildbore & Bob Cooper, Runners Up: Barry Jarvis & Tom Cowles Club Night Cup: Dave Burton Mixed Competition Winners: Club Open: Andy Wye, Runner Up: Tom Cowles Saunders Cup: Pa & John Walker, Runners Up: Jan & Jack Berry Adnett Cup: Velma Allen & Dave Hill, Runners Up: Pa Walker & Paul Jackson Sue Andrews Trophy: Ron Andrews, Pa & John Walker, Runners Up: Jan Berry, Pam Ratcliffe & John Jenkins Just after the season finished over 30 members and guests headed off to Spain for a tour of the Mojacar, Almeria region. Throughout the week captain John Hurst was issuing fines for various misdemeanours. Despite this, a great time was had by all with £240 raised in just five days, which included a generous donation of £50 from one of the opponents on the tour, Cabrera Bowls Club, following a barbeque and karaoke evening at their club. The money, when converted to Sterling, is being donated to the Leicester Branch of Parkinson’s UK. From Birstall Bowling Club

A NEW counselling service, operating from the Methodist Churches in Syston and Birstall is being opened. It is called Safe Space Counselling Service, and will be a place where people can make an appointment to see a trained counsellor and talk in a place that is safe, secure and completely confidential. A spokesman said: “It is well known that many people need to speak to someone at times of trouble in their lives, whether someone is suffering relationship problems, bereavement, money worries, redundancy or anything else. Often they find it hard to turn to someone they are close to and would prefer to speak to someone who is impartial to support them through the difficult times.” The councillors are trained to listen and support the clients as they work through their problems, or anxiety. The service will open in November and the tel.no. is 07938779477. There is also an email address: safespacecounselling@talktalk.net and a website: www.safespacecounselling.org.uk. Appointments can be made to suit the individual.

The December issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST

Flower WI news club

BIRSTALL AND Wanlip WI met at Highcliffe School on October 1.

THE AUTUMN marks a busy time for the club. On Wednesday November 28 we have our Open Meeting with the well-known and very popular demonstrator, Nick Grounds, staging a Christmas spectacular. His job as an auctioneer enables him to present an extremely entertaining performance and this year he passed his National Demonstrator test, putting him among the elite top demonstrators in the country. This will be a fun, flowerpacked evening with superb arrangements to watch and win. Tickets (£8) including refreshments are extremely limited so please ring Sylvia on 2674206 to reserve yours. On Friday December 7 we will have a stall at the Birstall Parish Council Christmas Market where table arrangements, swags, garlands, rings and wreaths will be on sale. All will be unique and highly individual. Come along and join us – everyone is welcome. From Birstall Flower Club

In a packed and busy meeting we heard that 24 of our members managed to walk a total of 683 miles this Summer. So the WI did get us moving. Unfortunately we were knocked out of our skittle tournament by Astill Lodge WI on September 27 but it was a very close game. We discussed how to make decorations for our tree at the Methodist Church Christmas Fair and this will keep us busy over the next few weeks. As usual there are plenty of other activities to look forward to including a trip to the Curve to see Hello Dolly. Our speaker was Carol Smith whose talk was entitled ‘I was adopted finding a family’. It was fascinating listening to the many clues she followed up over her 12 years travelling across Britain trying to find her birth family. Her persistence was rewarded as a story worthy of Catherine Cookson unfolded. She eventually discovered that her nomadic mother had given birth to seven children five of whom were adopted and even though her mother didn’t want to be reminded of her past and has since died Karen was at least reunited with her siblings. Our next meeting is our AGM on November 5 where we will discuss the past year and look forward to 2013. Afterwards we will partake of mince pies and a quiz. From Birstall & Wanlip WI

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INFO Nine and 68: the two ages in life where Brits have the most fun Nine and 68 might seem like two insignificant numbers, but according to new research they are the precise ages in life where we have the most fun and are at our most carefree. The research, conducted with 2,000 people from the ages of five to 80, investigated the exact points in life where Brits are most likely to throw caution to the wind and put fun at the top of their priorities list – and the results certainly cast doubt on the notion that our twilight years consist solely of slippers, suppers and Countdown. Two thirds (64%) of those aged 68 claimed that having fun is the one of most important driving forces in their lives; a sentiment shared by 80% of those aged nine – more than any other ages in life. In fact, for nearly three quarters (72%) of people in the prime of their lives (20s – 40s), having fun doesn’t even register in importance compared to priorities such as paying off debts and furthering careers. Perhaps because of their easy-going approach to life, almost half (47%) of children now believe that their grandparents are far more fun than any other family member – including mum and dad. It’s not just in their day-to-day lives Advertise in

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that the older generation are showing a more fun-filled attitude either. When asked what their ideal holiday would consist of, one in five (20%) over 60s described an action-packed holiday of adventure and thrills – challenging the stereotypes of cruises and coach trips. Surprisingly just 5% of those in their 20s – 40s would choose the same adrenaline-fuelled itinerary as senior

citizens, with the majority (56%) instead longing for a sedentary beach holiday. And if further proof was needed that the baby boomers are today’s ultimate fun-seekers, almost two thirds (63%) said that they are now far more willing to try out new experiences and take risks than they when they were younger. In fact, 34% of people in their 60s and beyond listed skydiving, bungee jumping and surfing as top of their ‘must do’ activities – bringing a whole new meaning to the term ‘silver surfers’. In contrast, a staggering 73% of those in their 20s – 40s admitted that work and financial pressures, along with family commitments restricts them from being as fun and impulsive as they’d like. These demands of the daily grind certainly haven’t gone unnoticed by kids under 10, with 78% of those surveyed saying that having to get a job and not being able to have fun all the time are the single worst things about growing up. Psychologist Susan Quilliam, who has today released a report analysing

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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2012

the results of the research, comments: “The results cement the idea of a special bond that we so often see between grandparents and grandchildren. Each is at a stage in their life when they are discovering or - in the grandparent’s case - rediscovering the boundaries by which most of us live our lives. The carefree attitude that the nine and 68 year olds share is something that many in-between those ages strive for, but they’re restricted by social constraints as well as the pursuit of personal goals. But the young and the older grasp life with both hands – making for that great grandchild-grandparent compatibility.” Excerpts from the report authored by Susan Quilliam: On being nine: At this age we have strength, energy, enthusiasm and motivation for action and adventure, but we haven't yet taken on board money worries, career stresses, love angst, huge expectations or heavy responsibilities. What we want as a nine-year-old and what we are hugely capable of achieving - is as much fun as we can get. On being 68: This is the decade where we are most likely to think 'if not now, when?'. There is a certain sense of 'we're worth it', and a tendency to put ourselves first after so many years of prioritising job and family - and given that, we're ready to take more risks and live life to the full. Which is why, as we reach retirement and the few years following retirement, our carefree, impulsive nature fully resurfaces, reaching a peak in our late sixties. No wonder 68 is a good age. Healthy living into old age can add up to six years to your life Living a healthy lifestyle into old age can add five years to women’s lives and six years to men’s, finds a study from Sweden published on bmj.com. The authors say this is the first study that directly provides information about differences in longevity according to several modifiable factors. It is well known that lifestyle factors, like being overweight, smoking and heavy drinking, predict death among elderly people. But is it uncertain whether these associations are applicable to people aged 75 years or more. So a team of researchers based in Sweden measured the differences in survival among adults aged 75 and older based on modifiable factors such as lifestyle behaviours, leisure activities, and social networks. The study involved just over 1,800 individuals who were followed for 18 years (1987-2005). Data on age, sex, occupation, education, lifestyle behaviours, social network and leisure activities were recorded. During the follow-up period 92% of participants died. Half of the participants lived longer than 90 years.

Survivors were more likely to be women, be highly educated, have healthy lifestyle behaviours, have a better social network, and participate in more leisure activities than nonsurvivors. The results show that smokers died one year earlier than non-smokers. Former smokers had a similar pattern of survival to never smokers, suggesting that quitting smoking in middle age reduces the effect on mortality. Of the leisure activities, physical activity was most strongly associated with survival. The average age at death of participants who regularly swam, walked or did gymnastics was two years greater than those who did not. Overall, the average survival of people with a low risk profile (healthy lifestyle behaviours, participation in at least one leisure activity, and a rich or moderate social network) was 5.4 years longer than those with a high risk profile (unhealthy lifestyle behaviours, no participation in leisure activities, and a limited or poor social network). Even among those aged 85 years or older and people with chronic conditions, the average age at death was four years higher for those with a low risk profile compared with those with a high risk profile. In summary, the associations between leisure activity, not smoking, and increased survival still existed in those aged 75 years or more, with women’s lives prolonged by five years and men’s by six years, say the authors. These associations, although attenuated, were still present among people aged 85 or more and in those with chronic conditions, they add. “Our results suggest that encouraging favourable lifestyle behaviours even at advanced ages may enhance life expectancy, probably by reducing morbidity,” they conclude.

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 NOV 2012

Birstall BAG’s cancer corner ACROSS THE globe November is Lung Cancer Awareness month. Lung Cancer is the most common cancer in the world. In the UK, around 40,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. It is the most common cause of cancer death in the UK, for both men and women. Everyone is at risk of developing lung cancer. It is known that smokers and ex-smokers have an increased risk of getting lung cancer. However, please remember that people who have never smoked are also at risk of getting this disease.

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There are other things that increase the risk of developing lung cancer. For example, contact with chemicals found in the workplace or environment, such as asbestos, radon and diesel exhaust fumes. Passive smoking (breathing in other people’s cigarette smoke) increases the risk of lung cancer, but it is still much less than if you smoke yourself. A healthy lifestyle is the most important way for you to prevent lung cancer. • Keep physically fit • Have a healthy diet – eat more fruit and vegetables and less salt, sugar and drink less alcohol • It is never too late to stop smoking – no matter what age you are, it can make a real difference to your health There are lots of reasons why you might have some of the symptoms below. It may be nothing serious but it’s worth getting yourself checked out. If you have any of the following symptoms for more than three weeks, make an appointment with your GP today: unexplained breathlessness; a cough that won’t go away; a long standing cough that’s got worse; unexplained tiredness or lack of energy; unexplained weight loss; coughing up blood; hoarse voice; chest and/or shoulder pains; chest infections.

Remember early diagnosis really can save lives! Birstall BAG’s continue to fund the Birstall Time Out Group held the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at the Village Hall and are delighted to confirm that thanks to your generosity and support we recently presented the University Hospitals of Leicester with £8231 to help with the new Cancer Information Centre at the Leicester Royal Infirmary. For more information: http://www.roycastle.org/news-andcampaigning/Campaigns/November-isLung-Cancer-Awareness-Month Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation 0333 323 7200 Macmillan Cancer Support free phone help line 0808 808 000 Monday – Friday 9am-8pm. 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 the funds we have raised, projects we support and forthcoming events see www.birstallbags.co.uk From Birstall BAGS

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visit our showroom proSP CS eyewear

www.bishopsappliancecare.co.uk Email - info@bishopsappliancecare.co.uk

GET A QUOTE FROM US BEFORE YOU BUYYOUR NEXT PAIR OF SPECTACLES Same day service on most plastic lenses 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

Beauty Therapist Required part time for the Beautyroom, 16 Woodgate, Rothley • Minimum 4 years’ experience • Trained to NVQ level 3, or equivalent • Advantage if trained in Electrolysis, Bare Minerals, Jessica & St. Tropez • Competitive salary

Call Sarah for an informal chat (0116) 230 1903