Bp13 10 363

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

OCTOBER 2013

COUNTY ROOFING

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

Longslade pledges to improve after critical report by inspectors

No. 363

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THE LEADERSHIP of Longslade College say they are well on the way to securing rapid improvements at the school after Ofsted found it was "inadequate" and placed it in “special measures”.

Ofsted inspected the college in June and found that: • the majority of teaching is either inadequate or requires improvement • progress by students in years 10 and 11 in English, Maths and some other subjects is too slow • the school’s leaders and governors have been ineffective in halting the decline in achievement, teaching and learning over the past three years.

• attendance is too low • expectations of behaviour are too low • the school site is not secure enough to guarantee students’ safety The Inspectors recognised that Longslade’s new principal, Mrs Kirstie Black,

had “quickly and accurately identified what needs to be done to tackle the weaknesses in the school.”

In a letter to parents sent at the start of the autumn term, Mrs Black said: “I am incredibly disappointed with the tone of the report.

The report and grading is not reflective of the college I am proud to work in. There is no doubt that had we been inspected this week, the college would have seen a very different outcome”.

This summer Longslade achieved its best ever GCSE results. The number of students getting five or more A* to C grades including English and Maths was 60%, a rise of 21 percentage points Continued on page 2 Celebrating 20 years of

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Bungling robbers jailed A GANG of men who entered a Birstall bank brandishing knives and hammers have been sentenced to more than 10 years in prison.

Jermaine Jesse Johnson (25) of Montreal Road, Leicester, Rizwan Ramzan (20) of Welford Road, Leicester and Hamza Pandor (18) of Bakewell Road, Loughborough (pictured l-r above) pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted robbery at Leicester Crown Court on Tuesday August 6. They were all sentenced on Friday August 30. Johnson was sentenced to four years, Ramzan and Pandor were each sentenced to

three years and four months.

The first incident happened at around 12.20pm on Thursday May 9 on Loughborough Road, Birstall at the Santander bank.

The defendants entered the building with hammers and knives threatening those inside. The quick thinking staff activated the emergency cashier screen and the men fled empty handed. They Continued on page 2

2

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2013

Longslade continued from page 1 from 2012, when Longslade was below the Government’s floor target of 40%.

Ofsted’s report identified that the quality of teaching at Longslade was inadequate, and that the expectations of what students should achieve are not high enough. The Inspectors found that in some Maths lessons students were carrying out tasks that pupils in primary schools would be expected to complete successfully.

The report states that in the sixth form there is a greater proportion of good teaching, and the Inspectors found examples of outstanding teaching in a citizenship lesson.

The achievement of pupils is inadequate, says the report: in English and Maths students in Years 10 and 11 make “extremely slow progress … standards are approximately the same at the beginning of the year as they are near the end.”

The report identifies rising standards in the sixth form and says that in some subjects such as dance, art and design and physics achievement is better and students gain standards that are average or above.

The Ofsted inspectors visited 51 lessons and observed 48 teachers. They

witnessed students “… chewing gum, wearing headphones, using inappropriate language and answering phones. On all these occasions adults were present and did not challenge the behaviour which is contrary to the policies of the school.”

The Inspectors found that bullying is dealt with effectively at Longslade, and that behaviour in the sixth form is consistently good with students working hard and co-operating well with each other.

The report states that Leicestershire County Council has had “too little impact on the school’s effectiveness [and] did not challenge school leaders and governors with enough rigour to improve their performance…”

The governors, says the report, “… have been ineffective at halting the decline in achievement, teaching and learning over the last three years.” Their performance has improved over the last 12 months, with governors undertaking training, challenging teachers’ performance and students’ behaviour and effectively securing the future leadership of the school.

Principal Mrs Kirstie Black said: “The recent improvements in exam results, attendance and behaviour demonstrate very good progress since the report.

“Every member of staff at Longslade is

striving to improve standards and we have embraced the initiatives being implemented to move the college to being ‘good’.”

On September 10 around 100 people attended a parents evening at Longslade to hear about the college’s plans and to ask questions of the leadership team and senior County Council Education officers.

Questions were raised about how students can feedback their views, school sponsorship, new courses, staff numbers, academy status and the prospect of Stonehill and Longslade becoming one school.

It was reported that a sponsor should be in place for next summer and that the conversion to academy status would follow. David Atterbury, Head of Strategy at Leicestershire County Council’s Education Department said that Stonehill and Longslade working together and eventually becoming one was the best solution as it was “common sense to share resources and expertise”. He said this would take time to realise and if both schools decided now to join together the earliest it could happen would be September 2015.

Mrs Black identified the changes that have been put in place including a restructured leadership team, the new uniform, student charter, improved environment and a no-nonsense behaviour

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system. It was reported that both behaviour and attendance had both improved markedly.

Mrs Black said: “Students and staff are re-energised and there is a very positive feeling across the campus. This is despite the fact that we are a college in Special Measures. There is optimism and hope regarding a new era at Longslade and we will continue to harness this as the term continues.”

The College will now have regular monitoring visits from Her Majesty’s inspectors and the college can expect a full Ofsted inspection within 18 months.

“I hope to bring this inspection forward based on my confidence in the continued increase in performance” said Mrs Black.

Robbers continued from page 1 were spotted by a member of the public getting into a vehicle nearby and he managed to get part of the registration number before they sped off.

30 minutes later, at 12.50pm, police received a call about another attempted robbery at the Post Office in Main Street, Ratby. The men entered the premises with hammers and knives but were again unsuccessful in stealing any cash and made off empty handed. The postmaster and a customer gave chase and managed to take down the registration number of the vehicle before it drove off ramming another vehicle in its path.

Observations were put out to all offices in the area and a police car picked up the vehicle on the A46 travelling onto Anstey Lane. The vehicle failed to stop for police and was pursued before it was abandoned on Somerset Drive in Glenfield. Johnson and Pandor ran off while Ramzan was arrested in the vehicle.

Pandor was witnessed dumping a bag with the weapons in and was arrested by police nearby after he was detained by a member of the public whom he had asked for help. Johnson was arrested a short time later by officers in the local area.

Detective Constable Rob Buckley, the investigating officer, said: “A large amount of credit must go to those members of the public who helped us in response to these incidents. If it wasn’t for their quick thinking and bravery in helping us apprehend these men we may well have not arrested them so quickly.

They acted with violence and disregard for the staff and customers involved including other motorists when they reached speeds of 70mph in a residential area when failing to stop for police.

This is a great result and I think it shows that the fact that they pleaded guilty is a reflection of the weight of evidence against them.”

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2013

3

Birstall bakers show off their skills CREATIVE CAKES and fabulous flapjacks were part of a cake fuelled weekend at the White Horse for the first Great Birstall Bake off.

Rebecca Kay, who came up with the idea, said: “I wanted to offer the village a community event in which all could join in and it be a bit of fun!

“We were thrilled to receive over 35 entries, including six young bakers.

There were a wide variety of offerings for the categories and the standard was superb.”

The Bake Off was just the first stage

those who donated prizes: Dominic at David North’s, Rawlins College, Greenacres Cafe, Hannah’s of Quorn, Tesco, Co-op, Starbucks, Wilkinsons, Amy Harrison for her design work, Flexpress for their printing and to Nick Loach for adding the Sunday quiz money to the fund raising pot.

Charlotte and Beccy would especially like to thank everyone who baked for the event. “We hope many more will join in the fun next year so we can crown a new great Birstall Bake Off champion in 2014 and raise even more for Macmillan” said Charlotte.

of a busy weekend at the White Horse as on Sunday September 22 the pub held its annual Macmillan World’s biggest coffee morning. “It seemed a perfect time to do the Great Birstall Bake Off the day before as then we would have some really special cakes to offer at the coffee morning” said Charlotte Foy of the White Horse.

The event raised over £500 for the cancer charity, thanks to all the donated cakes for the Bake Off and those who attended the coffee morning and gave generously. Additional funds raised by gift aided donations are likely to take the final total to nearer £600.

The cakes were judged by Mr and Mrs Allen from Allen’s family bakers, Maxilyn Geary and Kath Wright from the Birstall WI and Rob Mackay, Chef at the White Horse, following WI guidelines for appearance, texture and flavour.

The winners received a prize and a rosette with the best overall Birstall baker, Meg Roach, receiving a sash for her peanut butter cupcakes and stunning coffee mocha chino cake which looked and tasted delicious, said the judges.

Hayley Toone won best cake as well as the best decorated categories for her three tiered carrot cake, a unanimous

Pic (top): The judges (l-r): Mrs Allen, Rebecca Kay, Mr Allen, Maxilyn Geary, Charlotte Foy, Kath Wright and Rob McKay. Left: winners (l-r) Jacqueline Abela, Faye North, Hayley Toone, Lexie McLoughlin, Laura Florence, and Ian Crichton. Inset: Birstall Bake Off champion Meg Roach

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2013

Parish Council notes on the road.

The Council will be sending a letter of objection to the City Council following the submission of planning applications for traveller sites on Greengate Lane and PCSO Charlotte White reported that Red Hill Way. It was reported that the three offenders in Birstall have been arrested and charged in connection with LE4 Action Group had worked hard on preparing objections based on valid thefts from stores and that incidents had subsequently reduced. She has undertak- planning reasons, were organising public en a beat walk with partners from Charn- meetings and were encouraging residents to formally object to the plans. wood Borough Council in the It was agreed to spend £500 on adLoughborough Road, Station Road and vice to help clarify the legal position Tempest Road area, talking to residents regarding Meadow Lane and the Meadabout their concerns. That area is part ow Lane ditch. It is hoped that the adof the route taken by criminals entering vice will clarify ownership of the Lane, the village from Beaumont Leys. responsibility for upkeep and any liabiliPCSO White was notified that HGVs ty if the Parish Council undertakes any are using Greengate Lane in the early improvements. morning, despite the weight restriction It was agreed that the Council continue to support Birstall and Wanlip Village Watch. This amounts to £960 a year for the printing of the Village Watch newsletter and £179 a year for a dedicated landline number. The council receives an income of £200 a year from the group for the hire of the 10 Sibson Road building.

The Council agreed to spend £32,819 on improvements to the paths in the School Lane playing fields, and £3750 on five steel litter bins.

Following some vandalism of a window at the Stonehill Avenue toilets, the Council agreed to spend £1160 for the fitting of external grilles and vandal resistant acrylic perspex. www.raktailorhomeimprovements.com

A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on September 9.

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Pic: Police impound an uninsured vehicle

Driving offenders caught A FOUR hour Police operation on Sibson Road saw 45 vehicles stopped and 38 fixed penalty notices issued for driving offences.

Offences dealt with were: 29: seat belts not worn 9: driving while using a mobile phone 1: no insurance. The vehicle was impounded.

1: number plate that failed to conform 1: obscured number plate Police say the operation, on Monday September 23, was conducted as a

result of community consultations over the last six months.

PC Des Hearnshaw said: “I hope this sends out the right message to drivers that choose to flaunt traffic laws and that the people of Birstall feel reassured that we are trying to make the roads safer.

PCSO 6611 Mark Butler is currently looking to set up a community speed watch within the village that the Neighbourhood Watch will take on and run.”

Session saved for local elderly people A DAY centre session for frail and elderly people in Birstall and Wanlip has been saved.

Cuts in funding meant that the Thursday session at the St James Day Centre, run by Age Concern Birstall and Wanlip, was at risk of being axed.

It provides support for up to 15 elderly people who are collected by mini-bus at 9.30am and brought to the centre, located within the Village Hall on School Lane.

They have coffee and tea, lunch, an afternoon activity and are taken home at 3pm.

A steep reduction in the money Age UK Leicestershire and Rutland receive from the County Council has contributed to the funding crisis, but by dipping into their reserve fund, Age Concern Birstall and Wanlip have secured the Thursday session. They have also had to increase the fee charged to those attending from £8 to £20.

These measures will cover the costs of employing the manager, driver/carer and the hire of the room.

Secretary of Age Concern Birstall & Wanlip, Christine Winfield said: “We were all shocked and upset when we were told the session might close.

“The Thursday session started for people who are lonely, widows &widowers, perhaps depressed, and this may be the only time they get out of their house all week.

Closure would have made a tremendous difference to them, with more people ending up at the doctors or in hospital.

“Coming here helps keep people going, they talk to us and we help sort out their problems – if it finished it would be a terrible loss.”

The St James Day Centre also provides a bath service with a trained bath nurse, a height adjustable bath and a hoist. The fee is £3.50 Monday to Wednesday, the centre is run by the County Council for elderly people with dementia in the wider area – their sessions will continue.

Betty Howard, Chairperson of Age Concern, Birstall & Wanlip said: “The committee would like to thank all the marvellous volunteers who help the centre to be run in such a happy and efficient way and we are very grateful to all those who throughout the years have provided donations and legacies.”

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2013

5

KEY: PITCH

Acorn toddlers the best A BIRSTALL toddler group has won a top award.

Pic: the Greengate Lane site

Action group organises opposition to sites POSTERS, LEAFLETS and facebook postings have featured in an action group’s campaign to stop traveller sites being built on Greengate Lane and Red Hill Way. The LE4 Action group have been organising public opposition to the plan s and held an open morning at the Village Hall on Saturday September 14 to assist anyone wishing to object, either online or by post.

Spokesman Tony McGreal said: “One of the big problems we have is a lack of enthusiasm. It’s important people object and that they use material issues in planning policy terms, like the fact that the sites are in the Green Wedge.”

Leicester City Council’s plans are for a six pitch site at Greengate Lane and 10 pitches at Red Hill Way. Leicestershire County Council has objected to the plans. The County Highways Authority says: • The speed surveys have been done in the wrong place and at the wrong time of day • Vehicle speeds are likely to be high enough to require that the access has a 120 metre ‘visibility splay’, and that it is not clear that there is sufficient land to provide one • The footways on Greengate Lane are sub-standard and the pedestrian crossing points are harzardous. The plans have no mitigation measures to address these issues • The site is in open countryside with poor links to local amenities The plans will be determined at Leicester City Council’s planning commit-

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tee meeting on October 16. Details of the plans and the decision notice will be published on the planning section of the City Council’s website. The planning application reference numbers are 20131494 and 20131493.

LE4 Action Group: www.le4.moonfruit.com

New Birstall officer

Karen Smith is celebrating after her toddler group, part of Acorn Under Fives, was named one of the Best in the East Midlands region in the UK’s biggest parenting competition run by Britain’s largest parenting site Netmums.com.

The group, which runs at Highcliffe Primary School Community Centre on Monday mornings, is open to children aged from 1-3 years and is a firm favourite with local mums. The group has received glowing reviews on the Charnwood & Melton Netmums site.

More than a million parents were eligible to take part in the voting to select the best-run toddler groups around the country. Acorn Toddlers will get a winner's certificate to display at the group, along with a winners badge and a gold listing in Netmums' Toddler Group section. Acorn Toddlers will also be presented with a moneycan’t-buy box of Andrex toy puppies.

Karen said: “Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to write a review on Netmums. I am so pleased that people enjoy my sessions. This

BIRSTALL HAS a new Principal Beat Officer.

Pic: Karen Smith holding her certificate surrounded by toddlers

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PC David Jaeckels 1759 replaces PC Des Hearnshaw, who has moved to a new role as Sergeant on another beat.

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recognition makes the hard work involved in the organisation and planning of the sessions worthwhile. I have great fun running the group and enjoy seeing the toddlers having a whale of a time!”

For more information, please contact Karen Smith at: Acorn Under Fives 0116 2672795

Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester, LE4 4GH www.longslade.leics.sch.uk

6

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2013

Abbeyfield to close its Birstall home GROVE HOUSE, the Abbeyfield home for older people on Church Hill, is to close.

A spokesman for Abbeyfield said: “The decision was not taken lightly, but after much consideration it was felt that the accommodation in its current state was not viable because of a lack of demand over the last five years.

“Many of the rooms are small and only two had ensuite facilities. We have found that this does not meet the needs of today’s older people in Birstall. Older people are now seeking modern self contained one or two bedroomed accommodation as a minimum.”

Abbeyfield say that the expenditure to upgrade Grove House would be costly and that the investment may not generate sufficient interest in the refurbished rooms.

The spokesman added: “We will of course be working closely with the four

remaining residents and their family members to ensure that they find accommodation either in a nearby Abbeyfield or other suitable housing or care homes. No further decisions have been made regarding Grove House beyond re-housing the residents. Residents remain our priority at Abbeyfield and this decision to close has been a difficult one to make. We are also consulting with the one permanent full time staff member and the two part time staff members, to try to redeploy them within Abbeyfield where possible.”

Abbeyfield is a charity that provides support services and care for older people. It has had a home in Birstall for over 40 years. Abbeyfield’s Barnes House, next door to Grove House, closed in 2012.

Cash boost for club BIRSTALL UNITED Juniors FC have received a cheque for £50 from Thurmaston ASDA as part of their “Chosen by You” promotion.

Customers at the store were given a token to put in the pot of one of three local community groups and BUJFC came second.

Phil Hughes from BUJFC said: “The club would like to thank every single person who put their green token in our pot. The money will go towards purchasing new training equipment for the new Under 7s team which ahs just started its very first season of playing mini-soccer.

These are the kids who have moved up from our very successful soccer school, and have now begun playing 5-a-side

matches against other clubs.

“It is a very exciting time for them and we want to make sure they have all the right equipment to make it as fun and as safe as possible.”

The club’s soccer school, for kids from reception year and year 1, is continuing under a new coach this year and takes place on Saturday mornings from 11am to 12pm.

Pic: BUJFC players Barney and Reg went along to collect a £50 cheque from ASDA store manager, Ian Rowntree

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2013

Arson attack BIRSTALL POLICE are investigating two arson attacks to a motor vehicle on Newton Drive that occurred over a 2 week period in mid September.

Birstall’s PBO PC Des Hearnshaw said: “We are also aware that other motor vehicles from the surrounding streets have been previously targeted over the past seven years.

“As this is a serious offence, it maybe noticed there is an increased Police presence in the area - this is to help re-assure the community and to assist with preventing another similar incident. At this time we urge people living in the area to remain calm but vigilant.”

The Police are encouraging anyone with information to come forward either directly by calling 101 or anonymously by ringing crime stoppers 0800 555 111.

Burglar jailed A BURGLAR from Birstall has received an 18 month prison sentence for stealing a laptop computer from a student’s bedsit.

Shane Warland (24) of Hallam Fields Road, admitted burglary at Leicester Crown Court.

Warland crawled through an open window of the premises at Minster Court, York Road, Leicester on June 6 at 9.15am. He stole the computer of a Chinese student, worth £1500 and containing her coursework. He also stole her purse, containing her UK residency card, bank cards and cash.

Warland, a heroin addict, has 78 other offences on his criminal record including one for house burglary and four burglaries of commercial premises. He was on bail for shoplifting at the time he committed the offence.

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Getting creative at workshops ADULTS AND children enjoyed themselves and learnt new skills at summer workshops run by a local couple.

Local professional artist Sue Faulks, and her husband Simon, a guitarist and teacher, organised the sessions from their new studio in Birstall.

Simon ran an ‘Improvisation Workshop’ for guitarists. This was a two-hour session with the topics including ear training, scales and arpeggios and rhythmic phrasing. “The emphasis was on learning to unlock one’s own musical creativity, and the age range was from teenagers right through to retired folk” said Simon. “I am hoping to run a variety of sessions in the future for beginners to the more advanced” he added.

‘The Art for Children’ course was attended by a group of nine children from the age of 7-11 years. Activities included learning to draw a cartoon bear; crayon-melting; tie dying t-shirts; clay fridge magnets and galaxy door plaques Sue said: “We managed to pack a lot into the week! There was a lovely atmosphere, the children produced some fabulous work and hopefully made some new friends too.”

‘The Artsy Videos for Teens’ workshop saw a group of four teenagers produce line and wash illustrations which were then photographed and imported into editing software and music was added to it. The end result was a little stop frame animation called ‘Seasons Change’. It can be seen on YouTube, by going to the channel SueFaulksArt. At ‘The Portrait Workshop for Adults’ the day was spent building skills towards a life-drawing session. Sue said: “In the morning, the focus was on drawing skills and techniques as well as the main aspects of portraiture. Then the afternoon was all about observational drawing – firstly the eye, and then a portrait from life, which everyone found very absorbing after some initial trepidation.

She added: “I thoroughly enjoyed all the sessions and hope that everyone felt pleased with the creativity they had discovered. It’s surprising what you can achieve when you’re prepared to have a

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go! Many thanks must go to Simon and my daughters Joanna and Jenny Faulks, whose help was invaluable throughout the events.”

Sue hopes to run more courses like this in the future, and as well as her private lessons/workshops, has been running a small group for adults called ‘Promising Painters’ from her studio since April 2013.

For more details contact Sue on mob: 07984 197114 or visit her website: suefaulksart.co.uk For guitarist courses contact Simon on 07954379482 Pic (top): ‘Art for Children’ Navya Sharma, Lydia & Olivia Bonshor, Arjun Pancholi, Ellie Macmanard, Jonah Whatley Reynolds, Sohini Phull, Bethany Dearden and Khyati Bhatt. Below: ‘Portraits Workshop for Adults’ (l-r) Hanna Booth, Beverley Hooper, Patricia Page, Nicola & Sue Cousins

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2013

YOUR SAY...

Also we allotment holders would like to thank ‘Rob’ for spending two weekends in the ditch to try to clear the gullies of debris, to ensure ‘Riparian Duties and Rights’ are maintained to try to stop the flooding.

Dave Cherry, on behalf of Birstall Allotment Society

Crossing

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

Thanks I would like to say a big thank you to the two kind young gentlemen who stopped on the way for a drink on Friday August 23 to help my daughter move some slate which had been left on the road instead of the drive.

M Burden

Thanks I write on behalf of Meadow Lane allotmenteers to thank Jim Lennon for his sterling efforts in strimming both sides of Meadow Lane.

The nettles and vegetation had made it virtually impossible to pass walkers, cyclists or vehicle drivers, in safety. He has once again set an example for those, who we pay handsomely to look after the needs of residents of Birstall, to follow.

No doubt other users of Meadow Lane will reiterate our sentiments.

Despite my appeal in a previous edition of this paper I still witness children being taken across Greengate Lane, outside my home, by adults who may be unaware that recently two very near misses occurred due to cars ignoring the 20mph lights and adults using mobile phones thus not fully concentrating on the risks involved. There is a school crossing patrol at the zebra crossing which is much safer and I would appeal to ‘Guardians’ of children to use this crossing.

I have lived here for 43 years during which time I know of five children being knocked down so please think carefully about how you cross Greengate Lane. A few extra steps could be a life saver.

Roy Ewens, 95 Greengate Lane

Thanks I would like through the Birstall Post to thank Mr Jim Lennon, groundsman for Birstall United Football Ground.

Mr Lennon had made a lovely job of strimming the hedgerows on Meadow Lane so the traffic can now get by without being scratched up, pedestrians also!

It’s about time the Birstall Parish Council got their act together and sorted Meadow Lane out, it’s a disgrace!

Also what happened to replacing the fence alongside the Meadow Lane allotments, we were coming along last night when a teenager came off his bike and landed in the ditch, he looked fine. But one of these days a serious accident will happen, who will be to blame?

I understand the football club wants the access to Worcester Avenue allotments and wants to take a road through the playing fields, that is not a good idea with young people, skate board track and youngsters play area. Please someone use your common sense!

What on earth is going on with the Birstall Parish Council, everyone seems to be leaving, why?

Also according to form they [the County Council] are trying to close the overflow car park at the top of Meadow Lane, Watermead Country Park.

Not a good idea, where will we park?

Do they not realise a number of big disabled vehicles came to park there to walk the disabled, they need extra parking space. I’m disabled so need extra space also. Surely something can be done to stop vandalisation and drug abuse down there. Maybe CCTV cameras, more police patrol and even closing the car park at night, with barriers!

Please do not victimise us the regular car park users, and disabled vehicles, no room in the other car park for these big vehicles. What happens at the weekends when it is busy, and it does get busy?

Come on Leicestershire County Council, sort something out.

Anita J Gamble (Mrs) PS A big thank you again Jim!

Thanks CLASH2012 (Community, Leicester, Arthritis, Self, Help) would like to hank the Birstall community and all of its members in the help and support provided by you all at our annual coffee morning which was held at the Birstall Methodist Church on August 24.

The morning was a great success which enabled us to raise £189.54 which would not have been achievable without the aid and support of committed members and members of the public.

Thank you to you all.

Karen Martin

Built to last I have heard the phrase, “Things are not built to last” many times over the years, and from my first hand experience a truer word has never been said!

We moved into a new home on the Hallam Fields estate just five years ago, in that time we have had to have a new fridge freezer because it was faulty beyond repair, three new roof slates put on because original ones ‘dropped off’, the boiler has had to be repaired three times due to faults, and the element in the cooker has now ‘blown’ for a fourth time!

To compound matters the element fault caused the mains plug on the cooker to blow its fuse, I naively thought it would be a simple job to replace the fuse in the plug; the problem was I could not locate the plug! After much searching I found the mains plug socket had been put behind the built in cooker, so you have to remove the built in cooker to get to the plug to change the fuse...incredible design!

I did contact the developer regarding these issues but, as you can guess we received no joy, we were told “not our problem”!

Hallam Fields Resident

Eric Phillips The family of Eric Phillips who passed away on August 19, 2013 wish to thank neighbours and friends for their cards, flowers and messages of sympathy sent at this sad time.

He will be sadly missed.

Loving wife Mavis

Ribbons Please would you let the ‘person’ who bent my car aerial in order to steal the three ribbons in Tigers colours (this evening in School Lane) know that I will buy him some of his own – all of 50p from the market!

He will be easily recognised now,

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2013

with ribbons in his hair and his knuckles probably dragging on the ground. He probably also grunts, innit? Pathetic.

K L Reid (Mrs)

Site problems It was reported (Mercury Mailbox, August 23) that Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said, in referring to plans for traveller sites in Red Hill Way and Greengate Lane, that the managed sites would help prevent unauthorised encampments springing up. I hope when he uses the word "managed" he means managed much better, managed properly, rather than the management of the present temporary site on Greengate Lane. It seems doubtful that he has visited that site recently or if he has visited it at any time. It looks a mess and very overcrowded and it is obvious the site is not large enough for all the cars, caravans, other vehicles and ponies etc which are crammed into it. It seems likely that health and safety rules are being broken. Any management by Leicester City Council needs to include instructing the travellers about the Highway Code and impressing upon them the need to keep their dogs under control.

A few weeks ago a friend was in his car and about to drive past the Greengate Lane site when he was suddenly confronted with a young man driving a pony and trap coming very rapidly out of the site. Obviously my friend had to brake hard very suddenly but was rewarded for his quick reaction by being greeted with a rude, two-fingered gesture from the young man who instead of doing that, should have been thanking God and indeed my friend, that neither he nor his pony were killed nor even injured.

A near neighbour a few weeks ago whilst walking her two dogs (on leads and under control) past the Greengate Lane site had the upsetting potentially dangerous experience of having her dogs attacked by aggressive, uncontrolled travellers’ dogs running out of the site. Thus she is now afraid of walking past the site again and so it has become a no-go area for her. A no-go area in so-called Environment City for a woman just wanting to walk her dogs on leads on part of a public footpath is certainly not a good advert for a city vying to be the City of Culture in 2017.

In recent weeks we have seen several large ponies belong to the travellers on that site tethered to nearby grass verges.

The tethers, anchored to the ground, are of fairly short lengths so that the ponies although able to eat a circular area of grass have little room to move around and don’t have the freedom to gallop about and have proper exercise. Also these poor ponies being tethered next to a busy road are subject to the noise and fumes created by passing vehicles. Their situation and treatment seems inappropriate and is possibly a case of cruelty which the RSPCA needs to investigate.

J Woods

birstall post office

Noticeboard all details printed free Charity Bridge Drive organised by Loughborough Lions Club The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Wednesday October 16 at 1.30pm Afternoon tea provided £6 per person To book a table please contact Jackie 0116 2303317 or email: brianjackie.popple@ntlworld.com

Welcome & Hospitality

A likeable and heartwarming British drama enlivened by a trio of terrific performances from Gemma Arteton, Terence Stamp and Vanessa Redgrave No charge – refreshments available

Autumn Art Exhibition 2013 October 25-27, 11am to 5pm Newtown Linford Sunday School (next to main entrance to Bradgate Park) Around 100 original paintings will be on display – most of them for sale at very reasonable prices Admission free Raffle for an original painting with the proceeds going to Rainbows Hospice, Loughborough Website: www.charnwooddrawingpaintingclu b.com

St James Church on Church Hill, Birstall is open every Saturday morning from 10am to 12noon and a warm welcome awaits all visitors If you are looking for quiet time and private prayer, just to have a look around or have a chat, do pop in A cup of tea or coffee will be provided

Barn Dance Sat Sep 28 7.30pm, Birstall Village Hall Tickets £8, students £4, children under 10 free inc Ploughman’s Supper Tickets available from Gill Pope 2675086 or Sandra Robinson 2677238

Film Night Song for Marion Friday October 11 at 7pm St James Church, Church Hill, Birstall

Children’s Swimming Lessons At Roundhill Academy, Thurmaston Tues & Thurs from 5.30pm, Sun from 9am

For more information please visit the website

www.aquaticswimmingacademy.com or contact Lindsay 0774 6223197

Birstall Quilters Invite you to their Annual Coffee Morning and Sale Saturday October 12 From 10am to 12noon at Birstall Methodist Church Come & join us relaxing with friends over coffee. Solve some of the problems of Christmas shopping. Try your luck in the raffle – 1st prize a quilt made by the group members.

Sale in aid of Birstall BAGS (Breast Cancer Awareness Group) Birstall & District Art Society

Annual Exhibition at the Village Hall Nov 2-4 Birstall Road, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4DH Open 9.30am-5pm, Sat & Sun; 9.30am-3pm Mon

Free admission, wheelchair access, refreshments Free parking to the rear of the Village Hall Charity Christmas

Craft Fair Saturday November 2 from 10am to 3.30pm at The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR Admission £1 Lots of lovely craft stalls, in jewellery, ceramics, textiles, toys, gifts and lots more individually made and designed items Cakes, refreshments and raffle Why not spread the cost of Christmas and start your shopping early?

All proceeds to the Leicestershire MS Therapy Centre Contact Susan on 0116 2388035 for more information At the meeting of Leicestershire & Rutland Dowsers on Sat Oct 12 Di Holliday will talk about

Emotional Freedom Technique Chair of Slimbridge Dowsers, Di will explain practical applications for accessing the intuition The meeting will take place as usual at St James’ Day Centre, Birstall Village Hall and will start with refreshments from 10am to 10.30am Admission £5

Birstall Royal British Legion October 5: Dave Ross (M/V) October 12: Charlie (M/V) October 19: Jacqui Daniels (F/V) Octobar 26: Lauren Rose (F/V) Dancing every Saturday night with live entertainment Bingo, free beer raffle and not forgetting Open the Box

9

10

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2013

Every Tuesday night Bingo starting at 9.15pm Quiz nights Sunday Oct 13 & 27, starting at 9pm Acoustic night Sunday Oct 20 at 8pm Rock & Roll nights Wednesday Oct 2 & 16 Food available every Saturday 12noon-2pm Wakes catered for It’s that time again to enjoy the fabulous Brass Band music of the

Ibstock Brass Band They will be back in Birstall on Sunday November 3 at 7.30pm at St James Church, Front Street Pay on the door £5 Come along and enjoy a great night of live and lively music

Variety Show ‘A good old Sing-Song’ 7.30pm on October 10 & 11 2pm on Saturday October 12 at Birstall Methodist Church Tickets £5. tel: 2122513

• Burglar Alarms • CCTV • Access Control • Fire Alarms

Birstall Flower Club A Blooming Good Read Gill Shanks Wednesday October 23 at 7.15pm Birstall Village Hall Visitors very welcome Sylvia Simes 2674206

Film Presentations From Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council

Les Miserables Friday October 11 (158 mins) This epic musical drama film has great power. Anne Hathaway deserved her Oscar as Best Supporting Actress. Hugh Jackman won an Oscar nomination for his fearless portrayal of the convict Jean Valjean who only just survives starvation. We have to laugh at Helena Bonham Carter and Baron Cohen as Innkeeper and wife.

Even if you have already seen this film, you’ll still be entranced.

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Friday November 8 (94 mins) This British comedy is set in the Hudson Valley and features King George VI and our Queen Mary on the first trip across the Atlantic for a reigning British monarch. World War II is looming and our king is on a diplomatic mission to secure allied support, led by President Roosevelt, played brilliantly by Bill Murray.

The recent best-ever version of ‘Great Expectations’ will be shown on Friday December 13.

Thurcaston and 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.

Book your tickets early to avoid disappointment.

Birstall & District Local History Society Thursday October 10, Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road.

The talk will be ‘Bess of Hardwick, Elizabeth, Countess of Shrewsbury’ Speaker will be Julie Ede All visitors are very welcome and parking is available on the playing fields via School Lane entrance

St James Day Centre 200 Club Winners for September: 1st Mrs Leanne Green 2nd Mrs Pat Hilton 3rd Mrs Kathleen Davison 4th Mr John Healey

Calling All Toddlers!

Age 12 months to 3 yrs Bring a grown up to the ‘Netmums Favourite’ Parent & Toddler Group in the East Midlands Our sessions are fun, interesting and very messy Painting, sticking, play dough, biscuit decorating and lots more messy play Grown ups enjoy a cuppa while the little ones munch on a well earned snack of milk, fruit & a biscuit Lots of toys, books & jigsaws To finish we sing, clap out numbers or have fun with the parachute It’s a great place to spend an hour and a half of your day Interested?

Call Karen at Acorn Parent & Toddlers 2672795 Venue: Highcliffe Primary School Community Room

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Bah! Humbug the Panto

by Elaine Hunt and Phillip Walton At Highcliffe School, Greengate Lane, Birstall Thursday Nov 28 and Friday Nov 29 at 7.15pm and Saturday Nov 30 at 2.30pm & 7.15pm Tickets Adult £6, concessions £5, discount group booking from 0781 702 0064 or 0116 2128757 Don’t delay book today! hatsbirstall1@hotmail.co.uk

Annual Exhibition Soar Valley Artists Sat/Sun, Oct 12.13 Rothley centre, Mountsorrel lane, Rothley 10am to 5pm Admission free Refreshments and homemade cakes A warm welcome to all

Barbershop Singing

Taster Course Sun Oct 13, 3-5pm Mon Oct 14, 7.30-10pm Birstall Social Club, Wanlip Lane We invite all men who can sing, even those who think they can’t, to come and join us and have a lot of fun. Any and all music materials will be supplied by the club.

On Fri Oct 18 there will be an Afterglow Concert In aid of LOROS, donations on the door The Heart of England Chorus will be joined by other choruses from around the Midlands Call Jan Hunt 2675339 or email jansbolt@btinternet.com to book your place

If you run any kind of club or group in Birstall the library would like to hear from you.

We are hoping to have a display of ‘What goes on in Birstall’ which would detail any activities available.

If you have any photographs we can display those too. So drop into the library and let us know what you do.

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2013

Silly Science At Birstall Library Come to the library and enjoy stories and some silly experiments Thursday October 24, 2.15-3.45pm For children aged 5 to 10 years £1 per child Booking is advisable For further details contact the library 0116 3058756 or birstalllibrary@leics.gov.uk Saturday October 26 from 10am to 5pm St James the Great Church is celebrating the

50th anniversary of the Dedication of the modern extension in 1963 Come and share in the celebrations

Exhibitions portraying life in 1963 See what cars we were driving, what TV we were watching, what was on at the cinema, what music we were listening to Displays of wedding dresses and Church Vestments Birstall as it was in 1963 A display of the church, past, present and future Performances from the Gospel Choir (morning and afternoon) Refreshments all day Admission free There will be a special commemorative service on Sunday 27 at 10am

Allotment gardening for disabled people The Council has in past years made a commitment to accommodate disabled residents who wish to take up an allotment and will create a raised bed for easier access. If you would like further details please contact the Parish Council direct on

2676191 or email: admin@birstallpc.org.uk

Birstall’s biggest and best bonfire and fireworks!

Birstall United Juniors FC Friday November 8 Meadow Lane training ground Gates open at 7pm Bonfire starts 7.30pm Fireworks 8.15pm £1 per person (for all ages) Pay on the gate (please bring correct change) BBQ/can-bar*/sweets *no alcohol to be brought onto site

CLASH 2012 Drop-in Sessions for people with Arthritis and other Musculoskeletal conditions, to gather information and to have a general chat about these conditions.

Sessions held every Monday, 10am to 12noon, Room 7, Peepul Centre, Orchardson Ave, Leicester LE4 6DP sessions are free.

General Fitness Sessions Tuesdays 1-2pm and Chair Based Exercise Sessions Wednesdays 1-2pm for people with arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions at the Peepul Centre, Orchardson Ave, Leicester. Sessions are free.

CLASH 2012 monthly meeting. Wed October 9, 7-9pm at the Palmer Tomkinson Centre, Longslade Community College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4GH – speaker TBC Charity Fundraising Indian Buffet, Tuesday October 15, Tamarind restaurant, Peepul Centre, £15 pp 6.30-9.30pm. Please contact Karen for further information 07954584402

Quiz Night Highcliffe Primary School Elmfield Hall Wednesday October 16 at 7.30pm £10 per team (max 5 per team) in advance, £12 on the night http//highcliffequiznight.eventbrite. co.uk/ to pay via PayPal or email HighcliffePTA@outlook.com

“Longslade is changing….come & see for yourself” Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH www.longslade.leics.sch.uk

Open Evening Longslade College Tuesday October 15, 6-8.30pm For prospective students

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WI news THIRTY LADIES including some new faces met on September 2 for Birstall and Wanlip WI’s first meeting after the summer break.

It was time to catch up on our summer activities including an August coach trip to Springfields Shopping Centre, WI quiz, petanque evening and a trip to the National Arboretum. We were told of card making workshops, debates, lunch clubs and crafting and chatting that will all take place in the autumn at WI House. There is even a trip organized for the Birmingham tattoo on December 1 but this coincides with the Bradgate Group carol concert. This year it is hosted by Birstall and Wanlip WI at Harrison Road Methodist Church. Everyone is welcome so look out for more details next month.

Julie Ede then spoke to us about the amazing Tudor entrepreneur Bess of Hardwick who worked her way from being a young nanny to a good friend of Elizabeth I via working for the Grey family at Bradgate House. It was a totally captivating talk by a very enthusiastic speaker.

Our next meeting will be at 7.15pm at Highcliffe School, Greengate Lane on October 7 when Bill Wells will entertain us with ‘Fire Safety with a Smile’.

From Birstall & Wanlip WI

Vacancies BIRSTALL PARISH Council currently has two vacancies on the Parish Council.

The Council owns and manages three parks, including School Lane, where there are four football pitches or two cricket squares according to the season, the Greengate Lane Cemetery and three allotment sites.

The Council also owns the Village Hall and the old offices in Sibson Road which are available for hire and manages the Youth Café in the School Lane playing field pavilion.

“The commitment required is for an interest in preserving and improving the community and to attend the council meetings which are hold on the second Monday of each month” said Parish Clerk Steve Blackburn.

To be eligible an applicant must be on the current register of voters or be employed in the community. Joining at this stage will not involve a public election as the council has power to co-opt suitable candidates.

For further information please contact the Clerk to the Council, Steve Blackburn on 2676191 or email to admin@birstallpc.or.uk

Gym’s bid for funds CARL GUNNS’ boxing gym on Birstall Road is bidding for a share of Lloyd’s Bank’s Community Fund.

The gym is in a final shortlist of four in the Charnwood area. The two good causes with the most votes each receive £3000 while the other two get £300 each.

Carl has put up a display inside Lloyds on High Street, Leicester and with help from some of his young gym members has been explaining to bank customers what goes on at the gym and asking for their votes.

To vote for Gunns’ Gym, text VOTE KMJC to 61119 before November 1. Texts cost your standard network rate.

• Carl was invited by the High Street branch of Lloyds to cut the ribbon at the official re-opening of the branch, following Lloyds separation from TSB.

12

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2013

Memories of Jamie A POPULAR cat who was known by many on the Gates estate has died aged 21.

Jamie, a silver tabby cat, was famous for sitting in the middle of the road and refusing to move for drivers.

His owner Paula Lehane said: “Jamie came to us as an eight week old kitten.

Just a ball of fluff. We knew he was here to stay when after inspecting the lounge, he sat down and proceeded to watch the television. At that point my young son said: “Can we keep him Mum?” And of course we did.

“He spent the following years roaming the streets of Birstall but mainly the Gates estate. If a back door was open he was in. The owners would often find him curled up on their settee and on the odd occasion on their bed. He seemed to think that anywhere was fair game.

He would be picked up and put outside.

But you could guarantee, at some point, he would be back again and again, so in the end he would be just left to sleep till it would be time to go home. And home he came every night. He was not one for roaming the street at night. I think he know which side his bread was buttered.

“Dogs and cats would steer clear of him as he was a large cat, yet he would sit on the pavement or wall outside our house for hours and let adults and schoolchildren alike stroke him as they passed. I think it was part of the school run to stroke Jamie on the way to school and back.

“His party trick was to sit in the middle of the road and refuse to move if a car came. The driver, despite honking their horn, would have to get out of their car and put him on the pavement.

It came to pass that everybody in the area knew him and would stop to move him. In later years he would be brought home by concerned neighbours. “Your

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Pic: Jamie the tabby cat

Jamie’s been sitting in the road again” I would be told. He was actually the subject of ‘Thought for the Day’ on Radio Leicester one day because of his partiality for sitting in the road. My biggest fear was that he would be run over by a stranger who didn’t know about him.

Thankfully this did not happen.

“As old age and arthritis got to his back legs his roaming area became smaller so that in the end he would only saunter round Denegate and Ryegate.

But he would still know which house he could go to, to be given the best ham or salmon, or which house had a cushion by an open fire where he could sleep the day away. He still came home at night. Sometimes not till 10 o’clock at night.

“It was a sad day when Jamie was brought home by a neighbour from Denegate, who picked him up and brought him home in his van because he thought he didn’t look well. Unfortunately Jamie passed away in his van on the way home.

“Well Jamie thank you for 21 years.

You will be sadly missed not only by me but many people in this area, but I am sure that you are happy exploring pastures new.”

Lager theft A BIRSTALL man has pleaded guilty to stealing lager from a Birstall supermarket.

Jason Lee Parker (25) of Long Meadow Way appeared at Leicester Magistrates Court in September. He admitted stealing Carlsberg lager worth £13.25 from the Co-op on Wanlip Lane on July 23.

He was discharged conditionally for six months and ordered to pay £13.25 compensation and £85 costs.

Overgrown shrubs and hedges near to properties can shield opportunist thieves, as they cannot be seen by neighbours and anyone passing by. Please don't give them the chance! If you are out at night, please close your curtains and leave a light on, it looks like somebody is in. You can also buy TV simulators, which makes it look like the TV is on. These are available from us for £10. Please make sure all tools and ladders are all locked away safely, as these are often used by burglars to gain entry to your property.

If you do see anything suspicious, please report it to the Police on 101. If a crime is taking place always call 999. With a few simple measures, such as not leaving valuables on show, you can reduce the chances of it happening to you.

For more advice, please pop in for a chat at our monthly advice shop on October 19. This is held at the old parish council office (opposite the garden centre) from 10am to 12. Alternatively, we have an advice line (with answerphone). Please call: 2676397.

From Birstall & Wanlip NHW

Crime Report : Birstall & Wanlip August 2013 Assaults 15, burglary 2, burglary non-dwelling 1, damage 6, damage to motor vehicle 2, drugs 2, theft 7, theft motor vehicle 1, theft stores 4.

Lots of work has gone into the targeting of people travelling to Birstall in order to steal from the shops here on Sibson Road. We have made several arrests which have resulted in offenders

being charged and subsequently having conditions not to enter the village again.

This has had a big impact. The shops have adopted a more robust approach and have new practices in place to help us identify the thieves and bring them to justice, so I would like to thank them for all their hard work. The word is getting back to the neighbouring areas so I hope we can continue to maintain this approach. Should you be stood in a shop and see someone stealing, I ask that you raise the alarm with staff immediately, this will deter them from coming back.

Since arriving here on the beat I have been asking you all to tell me what matters the most to you. What can I do to make Birstall a better place to live. The results show me that speeding and parking issues are the most important areas you would like us to concentrate on.

PCSO Mark Butler is setting up a priority plan for this and is currently arranging events around schools and known trouble spots in order to tackle the issue. I have enforcement days planned in the coming weeks so you should see a big increase in Police presence on the roads.

I will also be looking for help from the community in setting up a speed watch in the village. Should you wish to volunteer or would like to know more please get in touch.

PCSO Charlotte White has been busy working on her beat problem priority and is putting her plans in to action over the coming weeks. We will have more visible officers on the village but also plain clothes too. She has been targeting those who have been causing the most ASB and as such issued antisocial behaviour contracts and warning letters. As I said when I arrived I am passionate about tackling ASB and I can assure you we all work tirelessly to target the main offenders and work to resolve the ongoing cases.

From PC 688 Des Hearnshaw – Beacon Officer PCSO 6611 Mark Butler & PCSO 6148 Charlotte White Email to: derek.hearsnaw@leicestershire.pnn.police.uk Tel: 0116 2677355 or 101. Twitter: @birstallpolice

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2013

Cycle ride for Alex A BIRSTALL teenager and her friends organised a charity cycle ride to raise money for Rothley based charity Alex’s Wish .

Paige Bradshaw (15), Ravina Battu, Heather Yeomans, Georgie Roe and Meg Holland cycled a seven mile route around Watermead Country Park, raising £100.

Alex Hallam is seven years old and suffers with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a rare severe muscle wasting disease that shortens his life. Sufferers either become paralysed or have to use a wheelchair in their late teens.

Paige, of Johnson Road, said: “I was really happy with the ride, all of us had a great morning, getting fit and raising some much needed money for research

New wool shop COUNTY YARNS, Birstall’s new wool shop, has everything for new and seasoned knitters.

A family business, run by Sue, Vic, Wendy and Sheila, County Yarns has relocated from Leicester’s indoor market.

Sue said: “Our objective is to provide a variety of knitting/crochet yarns and accessories at sensible prices along with good old fashion service too”.

She added: “We have brought with us some of our best selling yarns and also have some new ones coming in for the autumn, from a new lace weight to super chunky.

“Anyone who wishes to start knitting or crocheting we will do our best to help you find what you are looking for, we all knit, even Vic, well - in a fashion!”

The shop has a selection of knitting yarns from a number of suppliers including Sirdar, Robin, Woolcraft, Stylecraft and James Brett.

“If you cannot find what you are looking for please ask, we may be able to get it for you” said Sue. “To all our customers who have supported us in the indoor market we will be pleased to see you in our new shop on Wanlip Avenue, and to those who have yet to try us, give us a look, we will be pleased to see you” she added.

County Yarns, 2a Wanlip Ave (opposite Co-op Travel) Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9.30am to 4pm Tel: 0792 6630 973

13

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Pic: Paige Bradshaw (2nd from right) & her friends

into such a terrible disease. I first discovered Alex’s Wish in early 2013 and felt that such a lovely boy like Alex doesn’t deserve to have such an awful disease. The Hallams are absolutely amazing people and are definitely people to look up to. Alex has got to be the most inspirational person I have ever met, his courage and bravery was one of the first thing I noticed about him. I’m prepared to do whatever I can to help and support the Hallams, so Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy can be eradicated for good. A massive thank you to my bikers, all of you were fantastic!”

Four day adventure YOUNG PEOPLE aged 16-17 can enjoy a four day stay at an outdoor adventure centre for £35.

The National Citizen Service (NCS) is a government scheme, launched in 2012, that aims to engage young people with a mixture of outdoor activities, business workshops and voluntary work in the community.

The scheme usually lasts 2-3 weeks but Loughborough College are offering a one week ‘Awesome Autumn’ programme this October half term.

The week involves a four-day stay at an outdoor adventure centre with activities such as wall-climbing and archery, three days working with businesses to improve young people’s employability skills and a social action project that allows participants an opportunity to give something back to their community.

Food, travel to the residential and three nights of accommodation are included in the programme cost.

Phil Everett, Communications Officer for NCS EM1, commented: “Awesome Autumn is a slightly shorter version of our summer programme, but it offers all the same benefits including a chance to meet new people, try new things and build experience for university applications and CVs – all the while giving back to the local community.

We’ve already had several young people sign up for the October programme, but there are still plenty of spots available.”

You can also register for Spring 2014 if Autumn is not suitable.

For more information contact Jessica Pavey 01509 618062 or jessics.pavey@loucoll.ac.uk You can also visit wwww.facebook.com/NCSEM1 and/or register your interest at www.ncsem1.org.uk/young-people, quoting Loughborough College as the local delivery partner.

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14

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2013

Club’s finals day IT WAS certainly a day to remember for Connor Winterton at Birstall Watermead Tennis Club’s Finals Day. Young Connor (19) clinched the men’s singles title for the first time when he beat John Hurst 4-6, 7-5, 6-0.

It was a physically demanding event for Connor as he was involved in two other finals, and although he lost in the mixed doubles with Mary Whiteman, to

Pics: (top) Connor Winterton; (left) Laura Morley (right) & Rachel Chalmers; (right) Finlay Platts (left) & Benjamin Mills

Laura Morley and Vikesh Navsaria 2-6, 2-6, he triumphed in the men's doubles with Colin Lister, winning 6-4, 6-2 against Kieran Wil-

Bowls club BOWLERS FROM Birstall Bowling Club won three county titles, and were runners up in two more, over one weekend at the start of last month.

The club won the Greenwood Cup for the third time in five years with a combined score of +83, 37 shots clear of runners up Market Bosworth and 48 clear of third placed Fleckney. Birstall Scores: Grahame White, Richard Smith,

John Lee & Dave Clarke +35 v Rothley.

Roger Savill, Stuart Hartop, Jan Everitt and Andy Wye +28 v Wymeswold. John Hurst, John Walker, Paul Young & Di Hurst +14 v Measham. Gary Norman, John Jenkins, Pa Walker & Tom Cowles +6 v Abbey Park.

Pa Walker, Noi Walker (substituting for Jennie Groves), Jan Everitt and Di Hurst beat a Kibworth team skipped by Jeannie Filppance to win Birstall the ladies county fours title for the fifth time in seven years.

Pa also won the ladies county champion of champions competition, beating Joan Biggadike (Loughborough Granby), but missed out on a treble, losing to Kingscroft’s Pam

CHRIS MEYNELL & FAMILY

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liams and Neil Bayliss.

In the ladies' singles, club coach Laura Morley defeated Rachel Chalmers 6-1, 6-1 to repeat her victory of last year.

In the ladies’ doubles, Wendy Morley and Lucy Evans beat Mary Whiteman and Rochelle Muller in an exciting match, 6-3, 7-5.

In the under-18s final, Ryan Burton beat Kuljit Tara in a thriller, 6-2, 4-6, 6-4. However, Kuljit gained revenge in the under-16s final, defeating Ryan 6-0, 5-7, 6-4.

Joe Collings beat Dan Phillipson 6-3, 6-2 in the under-14s, while in the under-12s, Lewis Platts defeated Jake McLeary 6-2, 7-5. In the remaining final, the under-10s, Finley Platts beat Benjamin Mills.

One feature of the junior finals was the high quality of the tennis played, which bodes well for future years.

Organisers were delighted with support given on the day by parents, grandparents and friends of the competitors.

From Birstall Watermead Tennis Club

Sutton in the ladies singles final.

In the county mixed pairs, Birstall’s Jan Everitt and Andy Wye who last year’s winners, reached the final again but lost to Belgrave’s Dee Davies & Jamie Wain.

Birstall’s John Hurst was one of two Leicestershire qualifiers at the men’s National Championships in the two wood competition, but lost out in the first round to Alan Cawdell (Isle of Wight) who went on to reach the quarter final.

The championships took place at Worthing for the last time before moving to Leamington Spa next year.

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Riversdale Court plans PLANS FOR a £2.4million refurbishment of a Birstall sheltered housing complex have been announced by Charnwood.

The plans will see Riversdale Court on Riversdale Close extended with seven new flats built, two of which will be suitable for wheelchair users.

The existing flats with shared bathroom facilities will be converted into one bedroom self-contained flats.

There are also plans for a 13 passenger lift to allow easier access to all floors, to expand the car park and provide a new communal lounge and kitchen on the first floor.

There are currently 25 units within Riversdale Court – 16 bedsits and nine flats. 22 are occupied by 23 residents. If the development plans are approved there will be 32 one bedroom flats.

A spokesman for Charnwood Borough Council said: “Much of Charnwood’s sheltered stock was built many years ago and investment is required to ensure that it is fit for the purpose of providing good quality housing for older people now and in the future. A survey was carried out in 2010 to identify what investment was required in the sheltered courts and the Council is now beginning an investment programme for its stock.”

Riversdale Court residents are involved in an ongoing consultation process and are being kept informed of the progress of the plans. A public consultation meeting was held in September to give local residents a chance to view the plans and raise issues.

Charnwood Councillor for Birstall Watermead, David Gaskell, said: “I think these plans are absolutely magnificent. There was some concern raised at the public meeting, which I share, about the extension on stilts which looks too prominent.”

Charnwood says the plans are being amended following the public meeting and it expects to submit a planning application by mid October.

Church news Harvest This is the theme for October’s All Together service at St James on Sunday 6 at 10am, and everyone is invited to come along with their harvest gifts, to be distributed later to charitable organisations. The many people who attended the Church’s Garden Party at the end of August will be glad to know that the event raised over £1700, which will be divided between the City of Sanctuary charity for refugees and the homeless, and the church. Thank you to all who helped or supported.

Autumn events A very interesting speaker is booked for the next meeting of the Men’s Group on Sunday October 6 in the British Legion. David Walmsley will be talking about “Life as a Prison Governor”. The meeting starts at 7.45pm and visitors will be welcome.

The first Film Evening of the season will be held in St. James on Friday October 11 when “Song for Marion”, a heart-warming and very well-reviewed film, will be shown.

The performance will start at 7pm and admission is free to everyone. As in the “good old days”, ice-creams and sweets will be served and coffee and tea will be available at the interval. Donations will go to church funds.

The social committee has also booked seats at Loughborough Town Hall on WednesContinued on page 15

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2013 Continued from page 14

day October 16 to see the musical play, “The Hired Man”. Tickets are £10, so if you are interested please sign the list in church or contact Sandra on 267723.

Sunday October 20 is our annual Thanksgiving Sunday, with services at the usual times of 8am and 10am at St. James and 6pm at Wanlip. There will be a thanksgiving Bring and Share lunch at 12.30pm at Birstall, so please add your name to the list in the churches if you wish to come (or phone 2674913) and indicate what food you would like to bring.

Reaching the half century Finally this month, on Saturday October 26 we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the opening of the ‘new’ St. James church, adding to, but not replacing the old church, founded in Saxon times. Throughout the day there will be an exhibition of memorabilia and photos associated with 1963, connected both with the church and with the village of Birstall. If you have any items of interest from this period, which you are willing to loan for the day, it is not too late to contact churchwarden Tony Bloxam, on 2675381. There will be a flower display, an exhibition of wedding dresses, and music from the 60s plus many souvenirs of the era (anyone still got their old school uniform or school photos?) so come along and enjoy the nostalgia!

From Beryl McHugh, Parish churches Methodist Variety Show On Thursday, Friday & Saturday October 10, 11 & 12 come along & enjoy a ‘good old sing-song’ at the Concert Hall at the Methodist Church. Under the guidance of Shirley Harrison talent has been gathered together to present this variety show. On Thursday & Friday performances start at 7.30pm and on Saturday at 2pm (no evening performance on Saturday). Tickets are priced at £5 adults and £2 for children 10 & under.

Call Deborah for tickets Tel 2122513.

Lunch Club Any retired folk in Birstall are welcome to our lunch club which meets every Wednesday in the Church Lounge from 11.30am onwards for a chat, followed by an excellent two course meal & a cup of tea which is all served in the main hall. Transport by minibus also available. If you are interested contact Janet (2671471) for more details.

Room Hire The rooms on the Methodist Church premises can be hired out for events and meetings. To book a room or to make further enquiries either phone 2677576 or email: bmcroombookings@lnc-methodist.org.uk Special Services There are two special services this month.

The Civic Service on October 6 when we shall be welcoming members of the Parish, District and County Councils who represent the Birstall Community. The service will be led by Andrew Biggins.

On the 27th it is World Church Sunday when we think of the worldwide church especially those in poorer countries and the work of the Methodist Church overseas. There will be a visiting speaker from Methodist Mission House in London.

From Tony Moore, Birstall Methodist Church Harvest Thanks We would like to thank those of you who joined with us for our Harvest Thanksgiving Service on September 29. We are sending a donation to Care Sri Lanka, a Christian charity which is involved in supporting orphans and widows amongst other healthcare and relief projects for people of all religions in this needy land. If you would like to know more about their work, the web address is www.care-srilanka.org.

Discussion Topics October’s topic follows on from the above, for we all ask the question, ‘Why all the suffering?’ at some point. It may be felt on an international or national level, with such disasters as the massive flooding in Sri Lanka or the victims of war-torn regions, as well as on a personal level, when we or our loved ones face illness or abuse for instance. None of us is immune from suffering at some time in our

The history of Birstall Hall

The Midlands Co-Operative

Birstall’s John Mansfield

Sports & Social Club

NOTHING REMAINS today of Birstall Hall, built in 1758 on Roman Road. Local historian Mike Smith tells the story of the building and its inhabitants.

Part 3: Birstall Hall and John Mansof Leicester’s National Society for the field continued provision of schools and Leicester’s John Mansfield was resident at BirTrustee Savings Bank and other reform stall Hall and improvefrom 1797 ment societo 1839 ties but, and was above all, he Birstall’s pressed for lord of the improvement manor. of wages and His conditions qualities for the framewere quickwork knitters. ly recogThis was the nised by main platLeicester’s form in his corporation and by the age of 22 he was election to Parliament in 1818 and in elected a councillor. With the country the following year he initiated and gripped by fears of a Napoleonic invachaired a select committee on condision he became, at the age of 25, Lieutions in the framework knitting industry. tenant Colonel of the Leicester The Commons accepted his report’s Volunteers (the equivalent of the Home findings but they were rejected by the Guard) responsible for the defence of Lords. In the year that he entered Parthe town and county. During these criti- liament he showed that he was not cal times he put much time and energy afraid to stake his life in a matter of into bringing his untrained Leicester honour. He challenged a Mr Clarke of volunteers up to scratch. He was so Brooksby Hall to a duel for what he felt successful that, following a searching were scurrilous insinuations. The two three week inspection and field exercise met at 7am on July 13 at Danes Hill but in Derbyshire, General Roberts wrote of the worried seconds impressed upon the them two men what a tragic waste it would be “I am highly gratified with their apif either of them, as strong family men, pearance and extremely good were to be killed. The two agreed and conduct…in point of discipline, they after shaking hands they went on their would do credit to any regiment of the ways. So ended Leicester’s last duel. line.”

By the age of 50, after eight years as Following the Battle of Trafalgar, with an MP, he resigned his seat due in large invasion no longer a threat, Mansfield part to festering relations between himresigned his commission. self and Thomas Burbridge, Leicester’s By the age of 37 he was Leicester’s venal town clerk who, in twenty two youngest mayor. This honour came at a years of office, made the town’s corporatime when the peace of Leicester was tion recognised, throughout England, as disturbed by serious rioting by the poor the most corrupt in the country and against industrial change and the rising made himself a wealthy man. By 1831 price of food. He took control of the Mansfield had resigned from Leicester’s peace-keeping volunteers and, leading corporation. A disillusioned man, he was, from the front and facing up to the in 1833, made High Sheriff of Leicestermobs, he defused more than one danger- shire. This was the same year that a ous situation. He was commended in the Royal Commission of Enquiry from Lonpress for showing “the courage, tact and don came to investigate ‘the working of energy of a military chief”. the corporate system in Leicester’. The As a persistent campaigner for the commissioners concluded their report betterment of Leicester’s working men, with 20 damning observations: one said: who acknowledged him as ‘The Poor “It is impossible to speak of the [LeicesMan’s Friend’, he was founder member ter’s] corporate authorities except in terms of unqualified censure”.

Although the last six years of his life lives. These discussions are open to individu- were dogged by ill health he continued to campaign vigorously, especially on als of any denomination or religion (or none) and you can opt to attend as many or behalf of Leicester Infirmary and the as few of them as you wish. They are free of new County Lunatic Asylum. As a close charge, last about an hour, are informal and friend of the Duke of Rutland his influit is expected that participants will show reence and work became county wide. spect for others’ views. If you would like to He died at Birstall Hall on January 9, attend this month’s discussion, then please 1839 after collapsing at a family Christcontact the number given below to register mas party. Deeply mourned throughout your interest and state your preference for the county his funeral service, in Birstall day(s) and time (morning/afternoon/evening) and we will get back to you with an agreed church, although for family and friends date, time and venue. only, saw almost all of the village populaSunday Services tion lining the route from the hall to the These are held in the Community Room at church.

Highcliffe Primary School (LE4 3DL) at Next month: Following his wife’s 10.45am. Our visiting speaker is Richard Hall move from Birstall, Mansfield’s bank (Loughborough) on the 6th. You will be most and the estate face bankruptcy. welcome to join with us for our services.

Further information please ring 0116 2214883.

From Anne Taylor, Birstall Independent Baptist Church

Pic: Haymarket and Gallowtree Gate ca.

1840. Humberstone Gate is on the left, further down beyond the two curved canopies is Mansfield’s bank.

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16

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2013

Birstall BAG’s cancer corner One for the BOYS! The number of men getting cancer is rising. Overall, men are 14% more likely to get cancer than women. This is partly because men are living longer than ever before – age is the biggest risk factor for cancer. The good news is that the number surviving is also increasing.

Men are more at risk of nearly all the common cancers that affect both sexes such as bowel, lung and bladder. Some cancers obviously affect just men, they are prostate, testicular and penile cancer. Like all cancers early diagnosis save lives. Here are some signs and symptoms of male only cancers:

Prostate As men get older their prostate gland often enlarges. This is usually not due to cancer. It is a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia.

The symptoms of growths in the prostate are similar whether they are non cancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant).

The symptoms include: • Having to rush to the toilet to pass urine • Difficulty passing urine • Passing urine more often than usual, especially at night • Pain when passing urine • Blood in the urine or semen The last two symptoms – pain and bleeding – are very rare in prostate cancer.

They are more often a symptom of non cancerous prostate conditions.

Testicular The most common symptom of a testicular cancer is a lump or swelling in part of one testicle. It can be as small as a pea or it may be much larger. It is worth remembering though that fewer than four in every 100 testicular lumps (4%) are cancer.

Only medical assessment and tests can reassure you that your lump is not cancerous, don't take any chances!

Testicular cancer is not usually painful, but about 1 in 5 men (20%) have a sharp pain in the scrotum as a first symptom. Some men may have a dull ache in the affected testicle or their lower abdomen and occasionally some men describe their testicle as feeling heavy.

Penile

Are you worried about cancer in the family?

People concerned about a family history of cancer are invited to meet with experts who will advise on preventing or delaying the disease.

The University of Leicester’s Genetics Education Networking for Innovation and Excellence (GENIE) will hold its fourth Lifestyle and Cancer Awareness Workshop on Saturday, October 12, 1.30 – 5pm, Maurice Shock Building, University of Leicester Come and meet with specialists, ask questions, share your views and find out more about preventing or delaying the onset of inherited cancer. All welcome.

To register or find out more call 0116 2523405 or email: sfwc@le.ac.uk

THE BIRSTALL POST 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

Planning P/13/1899/2: 180 Birstall Road – proposed garage and recreation room at the rear P/13/1783/2: 20 Walker Road – erection of a single storey extension to rear of dwelling P/13/1735/2 : 49 Oakfield Avenue – the erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 4m with a maximum height of 4m and height to the eaves of 2.9m P/13/1721/2: Former Corah Sports Ground, Thurcaston Road – consultation from Leicester City Council. Change of use of former sports ground to gypsy and traveller site with 10 pitches and 10 amenity buildings (LCC ref.no.

20131493) P/13/1720/2: Land at 269 Greengate Lane – consultation from Leicester City Council. Demolition of 2 dwellings. Change of use of land from houses/garden to gypsy and traveller site with 6 pitches and 6 amenity buildings (LCC ref.no.20131494)

The November issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST

editor@birstallpost.co.uk www.birstallpost.co.uk

will be published on Nov 1.

The copy deadline is Oct 18.

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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

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The birstall post 47 x 59mm £26 • 47 x 120mm £44 98 x 59mm £44 • 98 x 120mm £78

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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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Repairs & Sales

Tel: 0116 2671166 Mobile 07969 953958

Small Ads

For more information on the funds we have raised, projects we support and forthcoming events see www.birstallbags.co.uk

The symptoms of penile cancer can be seen on the skin of the penis. It is important to be aware of what is normal for you and report any changes to your doctor.

Penile cancer symptoms may include: • A growth or sore on the penis that doesn’t heal within 4 weeks - it can look like a wart, ulcer or blister and is not always painful • Bleeding from the penis or from under the foreskin • A foul smelling discharge • Difficulty in drawing back the foreskin (phimosis) • A rash on the penis • A change in the colour of the penis or foreskin Statistically symptoms described are

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more likely to be due to a non cancerous problem but you have no way of knowing that. Of course it is only natural to feel embarrassed and shy about many of the symptoms described but don't let embarrassment get in the way of saving your life.

These cancers are curable, please seek medical advice if you have any of these symptoms.

For further information www.cancerresearchuk.org 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.

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