Birstall Post (370) May 2014 by The Birstall Post

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

MAY 2014

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

Easter play day fun

No. 370

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OUR PICTURES show children at a Birstall pre-school enjoying an Easter Fun day.

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The Co-operative Play and Learn pre-school at the Co-op Sports club on Birstall Road organised the event, which featured an Easter egg hunt, face painting, games and a visit by the book bus.

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014

Hundreds calling for leisure facilities MORE THAN 500 people have signed a petition calling for a new leisure centre in Birstall, or the re-opening of Birstall pool. Birstall pool, at Longslade College, closed in 2012 when a routine inspection revealed that bringing it up to a safe standard would cost £250,000. Birstall Borough Cllr Simon Sansome has started the petition and intends to raise the matter at a Borough council meeting. He said: “Other local villages and towns like Syston and Mountsorrel have great and successful leisure centres. A leisure centre and swimming facilities are essential for health and wellbeing and I will be asking the Borough Council to look at either re-opening Birstall pool or opening a leisure centre so that Birstall residents can benefit.” Re-opening Birstall pool would be a decision for Longslade College, which is expected to become a member of the Lionheart Academy Trust later this year. The trust is led by Beauchamp

College, Oadby. Longslade has indicated it would be prepared to look at a viable plan. Building a new leisure centre is the responsibility of Charnwood Borough Council. Sources have told the Birstall

Pic: (top) outside Birstall pool are (front, l-r) Barry West from Ashwell Biomass, Cllr Iain Bentley & Cllr Simon Sansome with members of the public calling for the pool to be re-opened. Left: a game of water polo in Birstall pool shortly before it closed

Post that if the proposed 1650 homes at north Birstall are given planning permis-

sion, the developers may be required to provide a leisure centre. Comments left on the online petition at change.org. include: • Birstall has grown immensely over

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the years but amenities haven’t grown with it as with other nearby villages which aren’t as large as Birstall. We need more leisure facilities • my daughter and I would often go swimming in the evening. I don’t drive either, so it was also fantastic in the

Pic: Birstall pool in 1983. Pool improvements were often funded by local residents

school holidays when she would go almost every day with her friends. If it was a hot day they would go to cool down, if it was a miserable day they would go for something to do. It has been sadly missed. • a new leisure centre would give kids and adults a much needed local facility within walking distance of our village as Birstall has nothing to offer our children on an indoor level • I learnt to swim there and so did my kids. It was a great little pool for the local community. I would love to see it recommissioned, then I would not have to travel to Leicester Leys leisure centre One option that is being suggested for Birstall pool is fitting a wood burning biomass boiler. These boilers reduce carbon emissions and are supported by the government’s Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) – this pays the owner of the boiler a subsidy for each unit of power generated, guaranteed for 20 years. The typical capital costs for the installation of a boiler for a school are £75,000. If operated 10 hours a day, 5 days a week the RHI income would be £21,200 a year, less cost of the wood fuel pellets of £13,300, leaving a cash benefit of £7,900 [source:www.ashwellbiomass.com] To sign the online petition go to www.tinyurl.com/pragsqo

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014

Performers take to the stage

Pic: Lilly Chamberlain (age 6) dancing with her group in the Street Dance Show

MORE THAN 70 Birstall children took part in two shows by the locally based Faces Arts performing arts company.

Singing for fun ST JAMES CHURCH will be welcoming Anne Hughes and the Singing for Fun Choir again on Sunday May 18 at 7.30pm for another evening of music. A spokesman said: “Those who have attended one before will know that there is something to suit all tastes in music, from classics old and new, songs from the shows, church music, folk and world music to spirituals and pop. And the chance for audience participation.” Admission is free. There will be a retiring collection in aid of the Samaritans and Christians against Poverty, the national money management and debt counselling charity. St James runs CAP’s free money management courses on a regular basis. The next one begins on Monday June 23 at 7.30pm at 7.30pm. If you’d like to know more about the CAP course, contact Gill on 2120236 or Lesley on 2674995.

A street dance show and the production ‘Hijacked Fairytales’ were performed at the Wreake Valley Academy in Syston. Jody Chesterton from Faces Arts said: “Faces Arts is about providing opportunities for local children to discover their performing talents. The development in their ability and self confidence of the children has been outstanding. A huge well done to all the children who took part. It’s Faces Arts tenth anniversary this year and I look forward to the next 10 years!”

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THE BIRSTALL POST

MAY 2014

Fun and learning

It seems a long time since we opened our first nursery on the corner of Park Rd and on checking back it is, in fact, 12 years!

“We work hard to provide the kind of bespoke service that every parent wants for their child” Group Manager Kate Bryan

The time has gone very quickly for us and our team of staff and a lot of the children we first knew as babies are now teenagers. With this in mind we thought we would take the opportunity to tell you about some of the things that have happened in recent times and how we are moving forward into 2014 and beyond. Following a disappointing Ofsted inspection, which we continue to dispute, (please do read the report online), we were very fortunate to appoint our new group manager, Kate Bryan. Kate was previously employed as an Ofsted inspector, Inspection Team Manager and Quality Assurance Manager at Prospects, (who inspect on behalf of Ofsted). Kate, for whom nothing but outstanding is acceptable, brings with her a significant range of experience in judging practice against required standards to ensure that the children are being challenged in order to prepare them well for school. Kate says, "I am delighted to be working with the staff teams at Woodlands & Gables nurseries. Both settings are forward thinking and committed to providing the children and parents with the very best service. Ofsted are concentrating heavily on how the quality of teaching affects children's learning and we are all determined to move forward to providing an outstanding experience for our children…and to

ensure that they have lots of fun whilst learning." Andrea Elliott, nursery manager, joined us in January. Andrea has many years' experience in childcare and the vision, and enthusiasm, to take us into the future. Andrea is excited to be a part of the team and is also preparing herself for the start of her degree in Childhood Studies. We would like to tell you about some of the exciting things the children have been up to recently and what we have planned for the future. Our outdoor area is continuing to develop and now that spring and the better weather have arrived, children are spending more time outdoors. The children have been busy re-designing our extensive outdoor area and interactive natural world environment. They have planted a tunnel using growing willow and are currently constructing a 'mud kitchen', which allows them to experiment with all sorts of utensils while getting as dirty as possible (Note to parents they do wear aprons and wellies!) Children have also put together a 'bug hotel' and are now waiting for the first 'guests' to surprise them with their presence. The 'guest's' photos will be taken by the children so they can compare how they grow over time and which 'guest' wins the biggest visitor award. (Bugs - please go to Trip Advisor for great reviews!) In March our Inspectors Room children enjoyed a visit to the Space Centre and all had their photo taken wearing a space suit. They had been preparing for this for a while and had made a fabulous display of a space scene, complete with planets. The children were full of stories about their day but all agreed that the 'spaceman' who took their biscuits was their favourite. Our building is undergoing the usual round of re-decoration and we are in the process of having new floors and carpets put down in some areas. A change of room names has also provided children and staff with opportunities to re-decorate and children are busy making lots of displays to show what they have learnt and to cover the walls. We are now turning our attention to our annual fete, which will be held on Sunday June 29th between 11am and 2pm. This year we are supporting Vista, the society for improving lives of people with sight loss. The fete will include a variety of stalls and a BBQ, so please come and join us and spend some money supporting a good cause. If you cannot make the fete then please feel free to visit us at any time as we operate an open door policy and we would love to welcome you and your children into our fun filled nursery. 1 Park Rd, Birstall, LE4 3AX Tel: 0116 2675427 Email: woodlandsdaynursery@live.co.uk www.woodlands-nursery.co.uk

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014

Belgrave Stonehill gardens goes to Chicago

THE GARDENS at Belgrave Hall are reopening to the public for a new season of events.

The gardens are open regularly, free of charge, every Wednesday from April 2 until the end of September. They will also open on the first full weekend of each month from 11am to 4.30pm.

A spokesman for Leicester City Council said: “Visitors can bring a picnic, take a stroll and discover some of the unusual plants and shrubs that grow in the garden. Traditional games, such as croquet, are provided. “A series of events is also planned, taking inspiration from the hall and gardens. Highlights include a one-day botanical illustration course, a family mini-beasts nature day and a course exploring the life of Charlotte Ellis who lived at the hall.” For more information, contact Belgrave Hall on 0116 2298181. A full list of events taking place for the new season is available at www.leicester.gov.uk/museums by clicking on ‘Belgrave Hall’.

BUGSY MALONE was this year’s production at Stonehill High School “We’ve got a great cast of very enthusiastic and talented pupils taking part” said teacher Helen Tebbutt. “It’s a large cast this year of 48 and we’ve been able to double up on some of the roles so that we have a different Bugsy, Blousey, Louella, Fat Sam and Dandy Dan on each night. The pupils have enjoyed being involved in this and have worked very hard.” she added.

Bowls open morning IF YOU would like to have a go at playing bowls, turn up at Birstall Bowling club’s open morning. Drop in on Saturday May 10 between 10am – 12 noon at the club on School Lane Playing fields in Birstall. All you need are a pair of flat shoes or trainers as all the equipment is provided. A club spokesman said: “Everyone is welcome, and club members will be on hand to offer assistance. “The club play men’s, ladies and mixed friendly matches against other

clubs in Leicestershire, as well as league matches and national, county, parks and internal club competitions. The club also has a good social side with various events taking place throughout the year.” For further details about the open morning or the club in general, ladies can call Diane on 0116 2675457 and men can contact Andy on 0116 2677969.

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014

Racist New map of Charnwood forest incident on bus THE POLICE are investigating an assault and racist incident on a bus in Mountsorrel and are appealing for witnesses to contact them. The incident took place at about 12noon on Friday March 14 on an Arriva bus, possibly number 126 or 127, which was travelling from Loughborough towards Mountsorrel. A man on the bus began making racist comments towards an Asian family and when another passenger intervened the suspect assaulted him. The victim received minor injuries and didn’t require hospital treatment. A 62-year old man has been arrested in connection with the incident and released on police bail pending further enquiries. PC 1948 Chris Hayton is investigating the incident. He said: “There were a number of people on the bus at the time that we would like to speak to, in particular the Asian family who were the subject of racial abuse. If you were travelling on this bus and recall the incident please get in touch. Any calls received will be treated in confidence.” To contact PC Hayton call 101 and follow the instructions to leave a message for the officer and when prompted key in the officer’s identification number. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, which is free and anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

GETTING OUT and exploring Charnwood Forest has become a whole lot easier with a new detailed map covering the whole area on a single sheet. The colourful 1:25,000 Ordnance Survey based map, designed by awardwinning Northamptonshire-based map publisher Global Mapping, shows additional footpaths, bridleways and permissive paths. It also shows public access land and includes information on places to visit. It costs £4.99 and is available to buy locally and online. Roy Denney, Chairman of the Ramblers, Leicestershire & Rutland Area, is responsible for the new map. He said: “As so often seems to be the case wherever you are, if you want to explore Charnwood Forest you find yourself walking off the edge of the OS map. Parts of the Forest are already well-loved by many Leicestershire people, but we hope that this locally centred map will encourage them

to explore some of its lesser know corners and bring people in from further afield, boosting the local economy.” The map is currently available from Bradgate Park, with other outlets to

follow shortly, or online from www.mapstop.co.uk Publication has been made possible by funding from Leicestershire County Council, Charnwood Borough Council Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council, North West Leicestershire District Council and the Ramblers Association.

Annual crime figures

“Evidence based policing, using new and innovative approaches to intelligence and tasking, has helped to make us more efficient.” Overall crime fell for the second year running, totalling 11% in two years. Theft from vehicles fell by 4%. Burglary and vehicle crime account for a third of all reported crime in Charnwood. There has been a slight increase in reported incidents of antisocial behaviour (ASB) this year. Over the last five years there has been a reduction in reported ASB of 49%, from 3,177 incidents in 2008/9 to 1621 this year. Inspector Harrison said: “I am very pleased to announce that our PCSO team are some of the most visible in the Force and spend 70% of their time working in the heart of the community. This enables warranted officers to spend more time using their powers to investigate crime, arrest and bring offenders to justice. Officers on my Safer Neighbourhood Teams are still able to spend 50% of their time out of the station patrolling the beat. “This year I would like to retain this excellent record and improve visibility in my officers to 55% and retain 70% visibility for my PCSOs.”

RESIDENTIAL BURGLARIES have fallen by 14% in Charnwood over the last year. In a statement reviewing policing Inspector Paul Harrison, LPU Commander for the Charnwood Local Policing Unit said: “The past 12 months have been challenging for us, due to the changes in the policing model for the Response and Safer Neighbourhood teams.

“As with any change we have had to adapt and revise the way in which we work in order to ensure that our resources are used more efficiently than in the past. This is to prepare us for the challenges that we will have to face from further cuts of £20million by 2016.

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014

YOUR SAY...

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

Alex’s Wish Alex Hallam is 7 years old, and suffers with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a severe and progressive muscle wasting disease that drastically shortens life and sufferers can be confined to a wheelchair by their late teens. The disease effects 1 in every 3,500 babies born a year - and it is known to specifically target boys. DMD is caused by the protein of dystrophin being absent - to you and me, the 'glue' that holds our muscles together to make them stronger, isn't present in Alex's muscles which is why he has the disease. I was overcome with shock when I realised that if I had Duchenne, I would actually be in wheelchair with a paralysed body all at the age of 15. This is Duchenne. This has to stop. I first met Alex and his family in late 2012, not long after Alex's Wish had been established. Seeing such a young, innocent little boy riddled with a life threatening disease filled me with so

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much anger, I decided I wanted to help the Rothley youngster and his family to raise awareness and money into funding world class research to find treatments and hopefully even a cure for DMD. So far Alex's Wish and the Hallam family have raised £60,000+ and have done events from skydives to pamper evenings. Every penny that Alex's Wish raises goes directly into the hands of professionals researching the disease. The charity is a non-profit organisation. Recently DMD has become the subject of national attention as campaigners have been pressuring the Government and leading drug companies into letting sufferers with terminal illnesses have access to treatments before they have been fully licensed - which can take quite a time. Alex's Wish has received no end of sponsors, donations and media coverage since 2012, and I'm exceptionally humbled and proud to say that I have had the pleasure of working with Alex and his family to raise awareness of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. The family truly deserve some sort of honour for their hard work and determination, especially Emma and Andy, Alex's parents, who have the toughest job of all - seeing their son fighting Duchenne. But that has never stopped them being pro-active and positive about everything they do for their son. Alex's Wish may not be a charity you've heard much about, so I am asking all readers of the Birstall Post to spread the word about this amazing charity and get involved with any activities and even do some fundraising for them - they deserve it all. The charity is in for yet another action packed year and I can't wait to hear of all the good things that will happen because of this. Lots of people look up to people who are maybe popstars, celebrities, footballers or actors. And for a very long time I did too. But that was before I met Alex Hallam. Paige Bradshaw (age 15) Johnson Road

Christian Aid For a growing number of people across the world, the horror of war is a part of daily life. Right now, fuelled by the devastating violence in both Syria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the numbers of people driven from their homes by war is on the rise. It stands at 42 million people – an appalling statistic and a stain on the conscience of humanity. We can’t turn our backs. We must act now. The good news is that you can make a real difference. Together we can send people living in fear this message: you are not alone. We’re with you, helping you to rebuild your lives, and working for peace. Together we can reach the 42 million people caught up in conflict and help them live a life free from fear. During Christian Aid week (11–17 May) volunteers from churches in Birstall will be delivering envelopes to homes in Birstall and Wanlip. Anything you give, however small, will provide the gift of hope to desperate people. Thank you in advance. Churches Together in Birstall & Wanlip

Grit I need to correct an error in the council notes section and think it needs addressing. As the person from Kilby Ave who tried to organise a grit bin and talked at a parish meeting about this I have to put it on record that, owing to the unhelpfulness of the [County Council] Highways Dept, we gave up and bought our own grit, property by property. If any other roads want info on our provider I may be able to help. Linda Pile 17 Kilby Ave, Birstall

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umns to request that the person who deposited a large red plastic ball with a funny face on it in our front garden to remove it. I regret that we can find no use for it. I have no doubt that someone else may be in need of it. Dr D A C McNeil 721 Loughborough Road, Birstall

Noise Why is it that the premises officers at Stonehill School seem indifferent and uncaring about the noise which comes from private events held in the building? This lack of consideration to the local neighbourhood is surely contrary to Stonehill's own Mission Statement's aims of developing "self-esteem and promote respect for other people and the environment" and fostering "a thriving relationship between School, parents and local community"? The main season of lettings is approaching. The noise level generated by some events - often at weekends and late into the night- is at a totally unacceptable level for those living in close proximity to the school. On occasions such noise is emitted even though doors and windows at the school are closed. The mind boggles at the decibels within the school! This sort of thing does nothing to enhance the school's reputation in the locality and is something of which Ofsted should be made aware. For residents who suffer from this unnecessary intrusion the number to ring is 01509 634627, the Charnwood's Council Environmental Protection section. Name & address supplied

Answers Who spends what must be at least £13,000 building an access track no one wanted (and only a handful of people will use) across a park when there is already a perfectly good access track? Who ignored their Community Engagement Strategy? Who in the process removed park benches, chopped down a tree in full blossom and then claimed they haven't got the money for grit bins or bus shelters? What would happen to anyone else who vandalised benches and a tree? Answers on a postcard please to Birstall Parish Council. Name & address supplied

Thanks A very big thank you to the kind people who helped me when I fainted and fell in Sibson Road especially Jade and Brandon Barbara Steward

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014

Noticeboard all details printed free

Then come along to our next practice Friday May 16 at 7.30pm St James Church, Birstall

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Leicester Amateur Operatic Society

‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ Wed – Sun June 25-29 Curve Theatre, Leicester The seminal ‘rock-opera’ and depicts the story of the last seven days in the life of Jesus of Nazareth through the eyes of Judas Iscariot Containing a varied score of hit songs such as ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him, ‘Heaven on Their Minds’ and the title song ‘Superstar’, the show is a rousing example of musical theatre at its best. Tickets £13.50 to £18.50 plus transaction fee* £2.50 discount for under 16s, over 60s, and registered unemployed *transaction fee is £3 for all card payments made online, by telephone and in person at our ticket desks. Excludes Curve members, groups 10+ and customers printing tickets at home

Birstall & District Art Society Tuesday May 13 at 7pm You are invited to join us at the Palmer Tompkinson Centre at Longslade College to watch renowned professional artist Jeremy Ford giving a watercolour demonstration entitled ‘Landscapes’. Come along and see if you will be inspired to try your hand at this wonderful and fulfilling hobby. Refreshments available at the interval Demonstration to end at 9pm Members: £1, Guests £3. Free raffle. Ample parking and wheelchair access

86th

The Service

Bluebell

Sunday May 11 at 3pm Service to take place at the Great Pit, Swithland Woods Preacher Rev Louise Corke, Team Vicar Newtown Linford Music accompaniment Wellbeck College Band Collection for local charity TBA All welcome

Open Church For tea, cakes and sale of secondhand books at St Leonard’s Church Swithland Saturday & Sunday May 10 & 11 2-4.30pm Donations in aid of church fun funds All welcome

Belgrave Cemetery On A563 near Red Hill Island

Open Day Sunday July 6 from 10am to 3pm Follow a self-conducted trail of World War I casualties Cemetery record information Bring & buy stall Refreshments All are welcome

Safe Space Counselling We have been operating our counselling service, called Safe Space Counselling from Syston Methodist church and from Birstall Methodist church for one year There are four counsellors, all trained in the person-centred tradition and each session lasts for about 50 mins and a fee of £10 is asked In this last year we have seen a number of people with a variety of difficulties and of all ages. All clients have been satisfied with the service and many have gained confidence in their lives which have improved as a result We see any individual who needs someone to talk to and who believes that talking things through with someone who is neutral in the situation and unknown to them will be of help Anyone is welcome to contact us and the telephone number is 07938 779477, email address: safespacecounselling@talktalk.n

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Vintage Fashion Market City Rooms, Leicester May 18, 10.30am – 4.30pm Live music, afternoon tea, beauty parlour, vintage traders www.britaindoesvintage.co.uk

Coffee Morning & Plant Sale Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane Sat May 10, 10.30am to 12noon £1 entrance Plants for sale include: begonias, salvias, impatiens, petunias, cinerarias, antirrhinum, trailing lobelia, nicotiana and gazania, verbena, spirea bridal wreath & Weigela ruby Many other items available

Nosh & Nostalgia Tuesday May 20 at 7pm Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane Rothley & Thurcaston British Legion invite you to come and join them in their annual get together and celebration Supper cooked on the premises Songs from the shows and Vera Lynn classics £12.50 per person from Norman Pratt 0116 2375254 Early booking advisable

Film Presentations from Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council ‘Sunshine on Leith’ Friday May 9 (100 mins) This romantic comedy is an up-

beat happy musical with many songs by the Proclaimers. Two friends return to Scotland from a tour of duty in Afghanistan. They again enjoy their girl friends’ company while Davy and Liz’s parents celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. However, there emerges a dark secret from the past. ‘12 Years a Slave’ Friday June 13 (134 mins) June’s drama won this year’s Oscar for Best Film. It is based on an incredible true story of one man’s fight for survival and freedom in pre civil War United States of America. When a freed black man is sold back into slavery, he faces cruelty but also unexpected kindnesses. The director, Steve McQueen, has created a masterpiece. ‘Saving Mr Banks’ Friday September 12 Have a good summer! 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 236 7626 or at the door.

Birstall Gala 2014 Saturday June 28 & Sunday June 29 This year’s Gala will be held over the weekend June 28 & 29 and once again, by popular demand, se will be accepting bookings for stalls for both the Saturday and Sunday, in fact bookings are already being taken In previous years we have had over 70 private and charity stalls, and so if you or your organisation

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014

would like to have a stall, stand or some space to promote your business or charity, please contact the parish council offices for the appropriate forms and any further information you may require by phoning 2676191 or email: admin@birstallpc.org.uk Or you can download the forms from our website: www.birstall.leicestershireparishc ouncils.org Not sure whether you want a stall or not? Take a look at last year’s Gala photographs to help you make your decision, a brilliant weekend was enjoyed by all and the feedback was superb from members of the public and stallholders for both days

relating to the First World War such as objects, documents, photographs which will be discussed and identified. Valuations cannot be given. Owners may be given the opportunity to have their items displayed at either Loughborough Library or Charnwood Museum Birstall Library on Thursday May 15 from 2-4pm

Birstall& District Society Local History

Craft Group

The next meeting of the Society is to be held on Thursday May 8 at 7.30pm in the Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall The talk will be ‘You Are All Living History’ given by Felicity Austin All visitors are very welcome Parking is available on the Birstall Playing Fields via the School Lane entrance

Events at Birstall Library in May Women in the Great War The 3rd in our series of lunchtime talks to celebrate the centenary of World War I this one deals with the role of women, those who volunteered abroad but also those on the Home Front Thursday May 8 from 12.301.30pm £3 (£2.50 for library members) Pre booking is advisable

Afternoon Tea Reading Group A new venture at Birstall Library on the 3rd Monday of the month from 2.15-3.15pm If you are interested in books and reading come along and have a chat Meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 10.3011.30am. A friendly, informal group for crafting and chatting £2 per session

Tea Dance Ballroom, sequence, Latin and jive Friday May 16, 3.30-5.30pm Birstall Village Hall Birstall Road, Leicester LE4 4DH £3 inc refreshments Come along to a great afternoon of music and dancing and excellent company All welcome For more details contact Joan on 07718519480 or email: guido@derosa.me.uk

Bipolar Coffee Morning A coffee morning is being held to raise funds for Bipolar UK, the national charity supporting individuals and families affected by

bipolar, sometimes known as manic depression Saturday June 21 From 10am to midday Methodist Church Hall, Wanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4JS Tea & coffee will be served alongside a number of stalls which will include cakes, plants, nearly new goods and a tombola Life Education Centres Leicestershire

2nd Ladies Fashion Show Thursday May 22 at 7pm Fashion show clothing comes from a selection of popular high street fashion outlets, with an opportunity to purchase items. All cash and card payments accepted Come and find something new for summer Tickets £5 each to include tea/coffee Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4DH Life Education is a charity working in schools with children and young people assisting them in their development in self confidence and knowledge in making healthy choices. We are trying to raise £20,000 to celebrate 20 years.

200 Club Winners for April 1st Mrs June Crebbin 2nd Mrs Monica Lucas 3rd Mrs Rita Cowham 4th Mrs Joan Folland Birstall Methodist Women’s Monday Night Group

Coffee Morning Saturday June 7 from 10am to 12noon at the coffee shop Plants, cakes, tombola, books etc All proceeds to: Girls Brigade, Boys Brigade, Age Concern Birstall, Youth Café

Birstall Flower Club May 28 Birstall Village Hall at 7.15pm Demonstrator: Jean Fordham ‘Memories of Village Life’ Visitors welcome Enquiries to Sylvia 2674206 or Mary 2672247

All Together Service

Birstall Watermead Tennis Club

Sunday June 1 at 10am St James Church, Birstall You are warmly invited to our short monthly family-friendly service The theme for this month is ‘Gifts and Fruits’

Open Day

The Parish of Birstall and Wanlip

Sunday June 22 10am to 1pm Co-op Sports & Social Club, Birstall Road Adults, Junior, Families welcome Half-price membership on the day Meet the coach, members, have fun

Coach Outing to York Saturday June 21 Leaving Birstall at 9am Departing from Birstall and Wanlip Coach Outing to York Saturday June 21 Leaving Birstall at 9am Departing from York at 6.30pm

Roald Dahl Event Stories and crafts for 5-10 year olds based on the stories of Roald Dahl Tuesday May 27 from 2.153.45pm £1.50 per child Pre booking advisable

World War I Roadshow Leicestershire Libraries have joined forces with Charnwood Museum and Loughborough Carillon War Museum to conduct a number of free Roadshows Members of the public are invited to bring along any memorabilia

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014

Cost £18 Optional Cathedral Tour For further information contact 2675086

Admission free Donations for church’s development fund Buffet from 7.30pm

Concert

CLASH 2012

with ‘Singing for Fun’ directed by Anne Hughes on Sunday May 18 at St James Church, Birstall Something for everyone Free admission Donations in aid of The Samaritans and Christians Against Poverty

Free Exercise Sessions

Highcliffe PTA presents

Bingo Night Wednesday May 7 at 7.30pm Elmfield Hall Highcliffe Primary School, Elmfield Ave, Birstall £1 per strip or £5 for six strips BYOB Reserve your space at highcliffebingo.eventbrite.co.uk Highcliffe Primary School

Summer Fair Saturday June 21, 1-4pm Bake Off, Tombola, Inflatables, Entertainment, Guest Appearances, Craft Fayre, Car Boot Sale If you would like a stall at the craft fayre, or a car boot pitch, please email highcliffepta@outlook.com

Tai Chi Classes with Laraine Tucker Starts April 29 First two classes free Birstall Methodist Church Rooms Wanlip Lane, LE4 4JS Tuesdays 1.30-3.30pm £7 per class Term time only. One term payable in advance For further information call 07779 434 742 Email:larainetucker@yahoo.co.uk www.stringof pearlstaichi.co.uk

Highcliffe Amateur Theatrical Society presents

‘The Queen and I’ The hilarious comedy by Sue Townsend Thursday, Friday, Saturday, June 12,13 & 14 at 7.15pm Highcliffe School, Greengate Lane, Birstall Tickets £6 (£5 Concs) Box Office 0116 2209594 or 0116 2128757 Email:hatsbirstall1@hotmail.co.uk Don’t delay, book today! Mountsorrel Methodist Church presents the 5th in the 13th series of Sunday Night @ Eight

for individuals with arthritis and any other musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions. Tuesdays 1-2pm General Fitness Sessions and Wednesdays 1-2pm Chair Based Exercise Sessions Sports Hall, Peepul Centre, Orchardson Avenue, Leicester LE4 6DP Call Karen for further information on 07954584402 CLASH 2012 a UK Online centre, provides

Basic computer training at its After School e-learning sessions held at Longslade Community College in the Palmer Tomkinson Centre, Thursdays during term time only 3.30-4.30pm. For further information please contact Conrad 07919844629 or Mark 07801718908 At the CLASH 2012 monthly meeting on Wednesday May 14 from 7-9pm at the Palmer Tomkinson Centre – Dr Graham Basten, DMU Associate head of the school of Allied Health sciences Birstall Methodist Thursday Group

Coffee Morning at Birstall Methodist Coffee Shop, Wanlip Lane From 10am to 12noon On Saturday May 6 Cakes, books & puzzles, tombola etc

Council Tennis home club open day plans AS PART of a big membership drive in 2014, Birstall Watermead Tennis Club is to hold another open day, the third this year.

A FIVE year contract, worth £5million per year, has been signed to give council tenants new kitchens, bathrooms and heating systems.

The event will be held on Sunday, June 22 from 10am until 1pm and is an opportunity for those who were unable to attend the previous two open days to see what the club has to offer. For those interested in joining on the day, the club is offering 50 per cent off membership fees - as long as they have not been a member in the past three years. Based at the Co-op Sports and Social Club on Birstall Road, the club has three all-weather floodlit courts, and welcomes youngsters, adults, and families. A spokesman said: “At the open day, bring a racket or borrow one from the club and really get in the swing of the action. You will be able to meet club coach Laura Morley and chat to members. “It will be a perfect time of the year to join, with Wimbledon fortnight starting the following day to get everyone in the mood.” To find out more about the club, visit the new website: http://birstallwatermeadtennis.co.uk Teams are now busy with summer leagues having just begun at the end of April. There are no fewer than seven junior teams, two ladies, four men's, one mixed and two veterans' teams entered this summer.

Wates Living Space will be delivering the improvement programme for Charnwood Borough Council starting in April 2014. Every year, over the next five years, Wates Living Space will install over 500 new kitchens, and 400 new bathrooms. In addition, over 70 heating systems will be upgraded in 2014 and insulation products will be installed. Councillor Jane Hunt, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Regulatory Services, said: “We’re pleased to officially start the contract with Wates Living Space to make these improvements for our tenants. “Wates won the contract after a tough, eleven-month long selection process and after careful consideration from our tenant representatives. We’re confident they will provide an excellent service. “We were impressed by their level of customer service, commitment to quality and provision of job opportunities and training for local people” Anyone with any questions about the improvement can call 01509 634666

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APPLICATION FOR VARIATION OF PREMISES LICENCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN That Birstall Parish Council has applied for a licence to use the premises known as School Lane Playing Field, Birstall for the purpose of Regulated Entertainment (Live Music, Recorded Music and Performances of Dance) for the Birstall Gala 2014: 28th June & 29th June 2014 Dated: 1 May 2014 Any objections or representations in respect of the application should be made in writing to the Deputy Partnership & Customer Services, Charnwood Borough Council, Council Offices, Southfield Road, Loughborough, LE11 2TX. Representations/objections must be received by: 29 May 2014 The applicant will be supplied with copies of any objections. A record of the application can be inspected at the Council Offices at the aforementioned address during normal office hours. It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in or in connection with an application. Any person found guilty of such an offence shall be liable on summary conviction to a maximum find in the sum of £5,000.00.

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014

WI news Inspector says plan for more houses BIRSTALL AND Wanlip WI met at 7 pm on April 7 as 24 ladies held their monthly meeting in the community rooms at Highcliffe School.

As usual we sang Jerusalem and discussed past, present and future business. Some of us reported back on the Annual Council Meeting where speaker Bill Tidy was apparently bestowing kisses on everyone and the Bradgate Group meeting hosted by Leicester Ladies WI (a young City WI). The latter was a wonderful evening with the secretary of the Richard III society as speaker and ending with a ‘Leicestershire supper’. This year is the WI centenary and a baton is being passed from County to County. Leicestershire will exchange with Northamptonshire on October 11 at Foxton Locks when each WI will form a chain of bunting down the locks. We were all given an individual piece of bunting to decorate for our chain. We hope to display this bunting at our Methodist Church Coffee morning on June 14. We will play Groby WI on May 19 in the first round of our annual Skittle Tournament. Our speaker was Wendy Martin who talked to us of Life In a Masai Village and Christine Siddons won the competition cup for the second month in a row with ‘Out of Africa’. We meet again on May 12 when we will hold a Resolutions meeting and Deborah Spencer will talk to us about Stilton Cheese. The competition will be a ‘Stilton Cheese Recipe’. From Birstall & Wanlip WI

A PLAN to build 17,380 new homes in Charnwood has been rejected by a government Planning Inspector because he thinks that figure may be too low. Charnwood Borough Council has been preparing its Local Plan for several years – it sets out how much development is needed in the borough between 2006-2028. At a two day hearing in March, Planning Inspector Kevin Ward ruled that: “…the Core Strategy has not been positively prepared, it is not justified or effective and it is not consistent with national policy in respect of overall housing provision. It is therefore not sound…” The Inspector did rule that Charnwood had met its duty to co-operate with neighbouring authorities while preparing its Core Strategy. The evidence that Charnwood’s planners used to produce the number of 17,380 new homes was questioned by Inspector Kevin Ward. He suggested that evidence may be out of date and indicated that a 2011 report projected 19,470 homes were needed. Figures produced at the hearing by developers Gladman and Jelson suggested that a housing figure of between 22,000 and 22,770 up to 2031 would be necessary. Cllr Peter Osborne is Rothley’s County

Councillor and also a Borough Councillor where he chairs the Plans Committee. He said: “From the Inspector’s report it seems Charnwood will have to find more sites or increase the housing numbers in identified areas. What people want to know [is] where is the extra housing going to be and can they by involved. “Melton Borough Council has shown the way forward having withdrawn their initial plan. They have involved the whole community in future decisions and it will be a real community strategy when presented. “What concerns me is a potential free for all, pepperpotting of applications, with little local control. It seems that this is what the government wants – centralisation. It is the direct consequence of what our MPs voted for. And yes, as a resident, I feel let down.” The Inspector has suggested that the examination of the Core Strategy be suspended for nine months to allow Charnwood to work with all the districts in the county and Leicester City to prepare a Strategic Housing Market Assessment – more up to date evidence of future housing need across Leicester-

shire. Borough Councillor David Gaskell (Birstall Watermead) said: “I am disappointed with the Inspector’s report but not totally surprised. We were firmly of the opinion our housing figures were right and we will be asking the Inspector for clarification. We want to do what is best for Charnwood – we will get there but it will be a hell of a lot of work in a very short time.” Rothley’s Borough Councillor Diane Wise said: “Yes, the housing figures will go up – we are all living longer, the number of single households is increasing and there is immigration. I can understand people will be disappointed but I don’t blame our planning officers central government are giving them a remit and they are doing their best to fulfil it. It has also been extremely difficult to get any sort of agreement or consensus about where new homes should be built.”

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014

Quacking good time at duck race BIRSTALL’S SIXTH annual White Horse duck race promises the traditional mix of aquatic drama, stalls as far as the eye can see and food and drink served throughout the day.

Acorn’s Easter fun A BIRSTALL pre-school held an Easter bonnet parade and had more than 50 entries. A spokesman for Acorn Under 5’s said: “The weather was good which enabled the children to show their hats in the glorious sunshine.” After singing a selection of Easter songs to families and friends, Mr McFarland, the reception teacher from Highcliffe Primary, judged the entries. All the children won a chocolate bar and three children received

Easter eggs. In first place was Ava Jackson, second place was Benjamin Kay and third place went to Antonio Fernandez. Everybody enjoyed refreshments afterwards and the proceeds of the event are going towards buying new tables in the classroom for the children.

Held on Bank Holiday Monday May 5, this year the decision has been made to donate the funds raised to Birstall Parish Council’s Youth Café. It was started six years ago when a need for a meeting place for the young people of Birstall was identified. Charlotte Foy from the White Horse said: “The support that the people of Birstall have shown over the past five years - raising over £16,000 - helps to underline a granite-like community spirit that the day of the Duck Race embodies wonderfully. There simply would not be a Duck Race without the support of local people. It’s an entertaining day for the family but it is the generosity of the Birstall people that shines through and

Pic: prizewinners Antonio, Benjamin and Ava

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has helped raise funds for over 10 local charities to date.” She added: “As well as the renowned Duck Race, there will be the usual family mix of stalls. For the sweet-toothed amongst us, there will be a cake and a sweet stall. There'll be a book stall for all of your holiday reading, a card stall for those cards you forgot to buy over the Bank Holiday weekend, and a couple of Pop up shops by local business’s. But it doesn't end there, the self-sufficient nature of the day will be furthered by the presence of a stall from the Birstall Youth Café themselves. They will be running a craft stall featuring items that the young people of Birstall have made, to further increase funds raised on the day.” Other attractions on the day include face painters, a visit from Peppa Pig, a bouncy castle, a tombola, hook-a-duck, penalty shoot-out, donkey derby and stocks to ensure that all ages and tastes are catered for. For those that prefer an oval-shaped ball to a round one, there will be a visit from Leicester Tigers’ mobile stall. Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre’s Paddle Plus will be running bell boat rides on the canal - providing a firsthand opportunity to experience the wildlife that the area offers. There will also be an additional stall to raise funds for a young girl called Effie Hadman, who has Batten Disease a rare neurodegenerative disorder that begins in childhood. There will be members from the group in attendance on the day - aiming to raise the profile of the disease and promoting a Coffee Morning being held at the White Horse on Saturday May 10. Ducks are available now from the Youth Café and The White Horse. There are cash prizes to be won to the value of £100, £50, and £25 as well as many other prizes donated by local businesses. “Ducks can also be bought on the day, so come on down on May 5 and join in the fun!” said Charlotte. For more information, speak to a member of the White Horse team directly by either visiting the pub, calling 0116 2671038, or going online to www.thewhitehorsebirstall.co.uk

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014 15

Parish Council notes New food hall opens BIRSTALL PARISH Council held its annual meeting on April 7. Chairman Ann Marshall introduced the new look annual report for the year ending March 2014, a 14 page document that sets out the duties and responsibilities of the Parish Council, the achievements over the year, projects for the year ahead and reports from the Estates team manager and the senior youth worker. The report also includes a list of councillors and information on the Parish Council finances. It is available from the Council offices, Birstall library or on the Parish Council website. Cllr Ann Marshall said: “We are ready to listen to what people have to say, we want people to tell us the good things as well as the bad. I can honestly say that all the parish councillors are here to contribute to and improve the village.” She identified the annual gala and Christmas lights switch on as the council run events that bring the village together. She said: “As a parish council, there are not many things we have to do, but a lot of things we can do.” One scheme the council is progressing is a plan to provide up to four defibrillators across the village each costing £2000. Another project for the year ahead is planning the new community hall at Hallam Fields – architects are currently drawing up plans. Cllr Ann Marshall reported that a frequent complaint from the public was dog waste on the playing field, and dogs off the lead. She said that the council is looking at employing someone to enforce the byelaws. She said: “We are here to do our best for Birstall and to do that we need the support of the community.” A member of the public commented that Birstall is a nice place to live and the School Lane playing field is the jewel n the crown. He said a visiting Belgian friend had been impressed and had walked round the village taking photos to take back home. A full meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on April 14. Roy Rollings was co-opted to fill a vacancy on the council. PC Dave Jaeckels reported there had been a break-in at Longslade College and two lead thefts from the roof of St James Church. Cllr Simon Sansome attended the meting with seven residents who all wanted grit bins. Chairman Ann Marshall said that Parish Councils can provide grit bins but that they have no obligation or duty to do so. In the past they have been provided by the County Council. Installation of bins requires a site inspection and a risk assessment – they must not obstruct the pavement. Cllr Ann Marshall said that there are a lot of things the Council can do in the village but we have to decide what our priorities are. One priority at the moment is to provide defibrillators in the village. She said that there had not been any icy roads this winter and that motorists need to be sensible about where they park and where appropriate, consider parking at the bottom of the road if their house is on a road with a slope. This happened in the Roman Road area

of Birstall she said. A member of the public then got up and said: “This getting us nowhere, I’m off” and left, accompanied by Cllr Sansome and six members of the public. Cllr Ashton commented that the discussion had not ended satisfactorily – there was no clarity for the members of the public what their options are regarding grit bins. Cllr Howe said the council needs to discuss each year what our priorities are, we should consider all suggestions. We have given the impression we have rejected out of hand the suggestion to provide grit bins, he said. Cllr Ann Marshall said that since the county had decided it would no longer install grit bins it had not formally devolved the service and clarity was needed on who now had the responsibility for providing it. Cllr Iain Bentley reported on a site meeting on Meadow Lane with local authority officers. The County Council is firmly against culverting the ditch. It says it will pay half of any fence, but erosion of the ditch means the fence posts could not be secured for any length of time. A resident has raised the problem of dogs fouling and dogs off the lead on the School Lane playing field. Cllr Ed Marshall reported that he had stopped and spoken to many dog owners on the park reminding them of the byelaws. It was reported that the Council intended to employ a dog warden to enforce the byelaws. It was reported that a new section of steel fence around the School Lane playing field will be erected on June 9, installation will take seven days. Cllr Ann Marshall said she was disappointed that only seven residents had attended the annual meeting, that the council would try the same informal approach next year and hope more people will come. It was reported that volunteers were needed to help as marshals at the gala. Cllr Rollings reported that the traveller family currently occupying the Greengate Lane site would be evicted by bailiffs in the next two weeks. The village noticeboards have been inspected by the Estates team and four have been condemned and removed. They will be refurbished and re-installed. The entrance fee for this year’s gala will be £1, the same as last year. The Council has received funding of £3000 for this year’s gala from the Edith Murphy Foundation. This year’s Christmas lights switch on will be Friday December 5.

LEICESTER’S NEW food hall – a glass and timber building next to the Corn Exchange at Leicester Market – will open to the public on Friday May 23. Less than 12 months after contractors started on site, all external works have been completed – with the zinc roof, matching fascias and the building’s 86 glazed panels all in place. “What we’re creating here is a fantastic new food hall which will be a tremendous draw for local residents and visitors to the market” said the City Mayor Peter Soulsby. The building itself looks stunning and I would like to personally thank the designers and the contractors – including many local businesses – who have done such a great job. It’s been a very difficult site to work in and I know that the team has had to overcome some huge problems to get to where we are today.” The eight stalls, selling meat, fish and delicatessen produce, have been designed to meet the traders’ individual specifications, featuring bespoke food counters that will help keep the fresh produce in optimum condition. Alison Ireland of Sherwin’s Cheese Stall, which has been on the market

since 1977, is counting the days until they move into their new home. “Our customers have supported us loyally over the years in a building that is now tired and outdated, so I can’t wait to be able to serve them in this fantastic new environment” she said. “There’s a real buzz of excitement around the place. We’re going to have the best equipment and top of the range counters in one of the best food halls in the country – and we’re looking forward to welcoming customers, old and new, to our new home from May 23.” The new food hall is the first phase of a £9.2million scheme that will transform Leicester’s historic market. Subject to planning permission, work on phase two could be under way in June, with the old indoor market demolished by early 2015 The new square that will replace the indoor market, and an extension to the rear of the Corn Exchange, are due to be completed in the summer of 2015.

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014

Thieves steal cash from bank Sites open this summer

PHOTO: STEVEN BRANDIST

THIEVES ESCAPED with a large amount of cash when they attacked the ATM machine at a Birstall bank.

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The incident took place just after 4am on Tuesday April 15 at Barclays Bank in Sibson Road. A glass window was smashed and the ATM was forced open. A large quantity of cash was stolen from the machine. Two men were seen leaving the premises in a Vauxhall Vectra which was later found abandoned in Rectory Road, Wanlip. The thieves appeared to have used gas to attack the ATM. A combustible gas is combined with oxygen and injected into the ATM. It is ignited from a safe distance in order to break into the ATM’s vault and only takes a few minutes. The thieves left the gas equipment at the scene. Detective Constable 4174 Clare Moore is investigating the incident. She said: “If you heard or witnessed anything suspicious that morning on Sibson Road please contact us. “The car was found abandoned a few hours later and has since been recovered for forensic analysis. If you saw someone leaving the vehicle in Rectory Road, Wanlip sometime during the early hours of the morning then please get in touch.” Anyone with any information in relation to this appeal is asked to contact the relevant officer on 101, follow the instructions to leave a message and when prompted key in the officer’s identification number. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, which is free and anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

WORK TO construct two new, permanent gypsy and traveller sites on the edge of Birstall is due to begin this summer. The city council is set to release funding of £390,000 from its capital programme towards the development of the sites at Redhill Way and Greengate Lane. The rest of the investment will come from the government’s ousing and communities Agency (HCA)Housing and Communities Agency (HCA) which is providing £1.44million. Both sites are expected to be ready for occupation by the end of March 2015. Rental income from the 16 pitches on the sites will cover their running costs. The running costs are expected to be £60,000 a year, and rental income £65,000. the surplus will cover rent arrears and unlet pitches. There will be six pitches at the Greengate Lane site and 10 on Redhill Way. The sites will be managed by the city council. Leicester’s City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “The development of these new facilities will help us to address the ongoing and costly problem of unauthorised camps in the city. The release of funding is the final stage in what has been a very thorough process and I am pleased we have reached a point where work can soon begin.” Lindsey Richards, Head of Midlands South for the HCA covering Leicester and Leicestershire said: “This funding will help the city council to satisfy its legal duty to try to meet the accommodation needs of Gypsies and travellers in the city. We are looking forward to the completion of both sites next year.” The Homes and Communities Agency is also funding the council’s refurbishment of its existing gypsy and traveller site at Meynells Gorse. Work to its 21 pitches will start later in the year and will be completed by March 2015. The two new sites were to have been managed by Framework Housing Association, but under the Mobile Homes Act a housing association would not have the same allocation rights as the council. The City Mayor has written to the Secretary of State on two occasions to ask him to amend the legislation but no amendments have been made. Framework will therefore act as the development agent for the council but will not have management responsibilities.

New school A PETITION calling for a new primary school to be built at Hallam Fields has been submitted to Leicestershire County Council. The petition has more than 250 signatures and was started by Birstall Borough Councillor Simon Sansome. Developers Jelson are required to provide a contribution towards the new school and the County Council are negotiating with them on how they will provide additional school places. The original Section 106 agreement stated that Jelson would provide £2million for a primary school and recreation centre.

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014 17

NHW news

& crime report Now the warmer weather has finally arrived people will leave their doors and windows open so just be aware this could be an opportunity for intruders to enter your house. Gardeners will also be busy so remember not to leave your gardening equipment out over night, also if you are doing flower tabs use cheaper ones. Some of the younger generation can be very irresponsible regarding their push bikes and scooters, so parents take your children’s bikes and scooters to the Watch Shop on the 3rd Saturday of every month where they can be post coded and this will be kept on police record. To raise extra income towards the cost of summer hanging baskets and the Christmas lights would people take their aluminium cans and glass bottles to the recycling bins behind the Co-op store. This recycling raised £1471 last year. From Birstall & Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch 2676397

Crime Figures Birstall & Wanlip, March 2014 Assault 4, burglary 3, burglary nondwelling 4, damage to motor vehicle 5, drugs 3, fraud 2, public order 1, theft 4, theft from motor vehicle 3, theft from store 2

REPORTED CRIME has fallen this month with a total of 31 crimes reported in Birstall and Wanlip during March compared to 34 in February. The number of break-in’s to houses (Burglary dwelling) has again remained fairly constant at 3 offences however we did see a slight increase in the number of non-dwelling burglaries with a total of 4 offences being reported during March. Having said this, 3 of these actually occurred on the same night at the same time and as a result of the quick thinking of a local resident who called the Police after seeing a male on top of the Sibson Road shops. This male was

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quickly surrounded and apprehended. When interviewed later he admitted 2 of the break-in’s as well as a drugs offence and was subsequently charged and given a custodial sentence, which was an excellent result all round. Our thanks go out to the person who called in that night as without their help this person may well have got away. Recorded drugs offences have increased from none in February to 3 in March. This was partly due to the incident mentioned above as the person arrested had a small quantity of drugs in his possession however it is also due to the fact that our pro-active team based at Syston have completed a number of drugs warrants in Birstall lately during which some small amounts of cannabis have been found. Please be advised that we do take drug use very seriously and if you are concerned about people using drugs in your area please report it via 101, so that we can follow this up and if necessary obtain and execute warrants under the misuse of drugs act. Our priority looking at speeding on Wanlip Lane and Birstall Road has unfortunately been quite slow getting off the ground, mainly due to issues surrounding staffing and equipment, however we are hoping to resolve these issues soon so that we can start doing some work on this priority in the near future. Lastly, we have a new Community Support Officer who has joined the Birstall Beat team. PCSO 6048 Adam Loydall will be dividing his time between the Birstall and Anstey beats and will hopefully soon become a familiar face around the villages. And as always, remember to report any suspicious activity or behaviour to either the Police on 101 or to your local Neighbourhood watch Co-ordinator. From PC 1759 Dave Jaeckels & Pcso 6611 Mark Butler L05 – Birstall Office Leicestershire Police http://www.leics.police.uk Tel: 0116 2677355 OR 101 Twitter: @birstallpolice

Bowls club try on Easter bonnets ST MARGARET’S Co-operative Ladies Bowls Club held a coffee morning and an Easter bonnet competition, which was won by Joan Breward. The club is always looking for new members, both ladies and men. It organises a ‘Chummy’ night on Mondays at 6pm when you can learn more about the game and have a go. You will need

Pic: Bowls club members wearing Easter bonnets at their coffee morning

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014

News from the churches Christian Aid week The annual Christian Aid week is one of the most important events in early May. These days we all receive through the letter box, requests for money from various charities, some of which we’ve never heard of. Christian Aid does not approach people in this impersonal way and instead a team of volunteers, mostly from the local churches, will visit local homes with envelopes for donations. All of this money goes direct to people in need in the poorest countries of the world, to help them to establish ways of supporting themselves. The people of Birstall and Wanlip have always been generous in their response and it is hoped this will continue, even as we emerge from a recession. On Saturday May 3, there will also be a Christian Aid coffee morning and sale of plants and cakes etc (with raffle and tombola,) at the Methodist Coffee shop from 10am. The parish churches expect a busy weekend May 10-11 when the partnership of churches, to which Birstall and Wanlip belong, have an extended visit form the Bishop of Leicester. The future for village churches in the area will be particularly under discussion, and ways in which parishes can help each other. There will also be social events with opportunity to meet the Bishop and on Sunday May 11, there will be afternoon tea at St. James at 4pm followed by Evensong with the Bishop at 6pm. All will be welcome at the events. If you wish to know more, a leaflet is available at the church or take a look at our website www.birstall.org

Finally, a new venture at Wanlip deserves special mention: Old Nick’s Coffee shop is open at Wanlip Church rooms on Tuesday morning, May 20 from 10am. Why not give it a try? From Beryl McHugh, Parish churches

Christian Aid Week In the week of May 10 to 17, members of the four churches in Birstall & Wanlip which make up ‘Churches Together in Birstall’ will be taking part in ‘House to House Collections” for the worlds poorest people. It is still a scandal that 870 million people are in desperate need of food! If you get a red envelope through the door, then do please contribute & hand it back to the volunteer who will call. Alas there are not enough volunteers to collect in every road in Birstall & Wanlip. So if you don’t get an envelope, do contribute through the many other means that are available. If you can offer to help with collecting, please contact Mary on 267 5154 Displays – Not Stalls By way of clarification, in April’s Birstall Post it was suggested there would be stalls at the Methodist Church on the day of the Birstall Yard Sale (July 5). There will in fact be only one stall – and it will be selling garden plants. Apologies for the confusion. There will however be ‘displays’ in the church where all groups using the premises are invited to ‘show-off’ what they do. These displays will not be selling anything.

Refreshments will be available all day in the Coffee Shop. The day of the Yard Sale seemed an ideal opportunity for the church to join in this community event in this way. Church AGM The Annual General Meeting of Birstall Methodist Church takes place on Sunday June 11 at 4pm. All members and friends are welcome. It will be an opportunity to hear reports from stewards, our minister and our treasurer. Also the latest on the re-ordering of the worship area and entrance. From Tony Moore, Birstall Methodist church

Discussion Topic In April we discussed the meaning of the Cross on Good Friday and this month we consider the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead on Easter Sunday and His Ascension back into heaven, which is celebrated this year on May 29. Again, there are many views held by people about these events, which are so important in Christianity. Some people question, for example, whether there actually was a Resurrection, while others suggest it was spiritual rather than physical. There may also be some confusion between the two events. Our discussion topic is: “Resurrection and Ascension: what is the evidence for and the significance of these events?” This discussion is open to individuals of any denomination or religion (or none) and is free of charge. It is expected that participants will show respect for others’ views. If you would like to attend this month’s discussion, then please contact the number given below to register your interest and state your preference for day(s) and time (morning/afternoon/evening) and we will get back to you with an agreed date, time and venue. Sunday Services These services will be in the Community Room at Highcliffe Primary School (LE4 3DL) and begin at 10.45am and we will be pleased to welcome you to any of them. Looking ahead, please note that we are not able to use the school on June 1, so please ring for the venue for that day. Further information : please ring 0116 2214883. From Anne Taylor, Birstall Independent Baptist church

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P/14/0739/2: 16 Hallam Avenue – proposed two storey extension to dwellinghouse including demolition & rebuilding of garage P/14/0735/2: 33 Johnson Road – single storey rear extension P/14/0626/2: 239 Birstall Road – erection of single and two storey extensions to rear, porch and detached garage and boundary wall and gate to front of dwelling P/14/0638/2: Highcliffe Primary School, Greengate Lane – erection of wood pellet storage silo P/14/0637/2: 44 Fieldgate Crescent – erection of a single storey extension to side of dwelling P/14/0629/2: 79 Woodgate Drive – erection of a single storey side and rear extension and conversion of garage with mono pitched P/14/0616/2: 470 Loughborough Road – the erection of a single story rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 3.6m, with a maximum height of 3.6m and height to the eaves of 2.4m

Money management course A MONEY management course at a Birstall church was so popular it is being repeated. The CAP Money course is devised by the 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. A spokesman said: “It has been found to be useful for all ages from newly retired people, to soon-to-be students, families saving for a forthcoming wedding and people with loans and debts who want to get straight.” One of the recent course attendees said: “I wasn’t too sure if I would ever be able to take back control of my finances. Taking part in the course everyone was very friendly, helpful, knowledgeable and most of all nonjudgemental! I feel that it has had a positive effect on my whole life not just financially. I want to make every penny count. I feel very excited about the future. Thank you so much!” CAP Money coaches, Gill, Lesley and Elaine said: “We’re glad to say we’ll we repeating the CAP Money course – which is free to attend – starting on Monday evening June 23 and for the following two Monday evenings. We would urge you to get in touch if you want to bring some order to your finances.” To find out more about the CAP Money course or to book your place visit www.capmoney.org. or tel: 267 4995 or 267 3030. Advertise in

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014 19

Cricket Corner WELL THE season has just begun and the first home game is being eagerly awaited. Birstall 1st XI take on Ratby Town 2nd team on Saturday 3rd May. BVCC has not played Ratby Town in a league match as far as my records show, but we will relish the new challenges. New 1st XI team captain Jon Gaydon has already made his mark on the team bringing in two new players, all-rounder Gavin Mayhew who re-joins the club from a few years away. He has trained hard to make a strong early start to the season. Opening bowler Kyle Thomas looks to strengthen the 1st team attack. He has joined from University and has already shown he will be an asset to the team. Jon has also acquired two new sponsors for the club in Aroma Spice, the local Indian restaurant who wants to be a part of some social events throughout the year. William Hercock Ltd, the local DIY store is also supporting the club and we look to continue to use their facilities to further improve the aesthetics of the clubhouse. A lot of work has been done over the past month to the clubhouse including painting the outside. The club has used their traditional club colours of bottle green with a black trim. The outdoor nets are now ready to use and club looks to run a weekly nets session every Wednesday evening. Birstall still welcome any new players who would like to join the club. Any interested players can contact Jon Gaydon 07717533690 (senior team) or Joe Carnan 07827332601 (under 17’s). Early season dates to keep in mind Wednesday evenings (6 – 7.30 pm) – Training Birstall park, BVCC outdoor nets. Sat May 3: First home game in Birstall. (1st XI vs Ratby Town 2nd XI) Sat May 10: 2nd XI vs Shepshed Messengers 2nd XI Sat May 17: 1st XI vs Mountsorrel Castle Sat May 24: 1st XI vs Croft Thurs May 29: Birstall Vipers vs Shepshed (6.30pm start) Sat May 31: 2nd XI vs Croft 2nd XI All welcome to support the club and enjoy a cold beverage from the bar! From Joshua Saye, Birstall Village Cricket Club

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Turbine Complaint about starts to councillor rejected generate power

A COMPLAINT about a Birstall Borough Councillor has been rejected.

THE WANLIP wind turbine began turning in mid February but didn’t start generating electricity until February 26, says Severn Trent.

A spokesman said: “Until now [Feb 26] the wind turbines blades have been moving slowly without generating power. That’s because installing wind turbines isn’t quite the same as plugging in lights at home. “Since the structure has been erected extensive testing has taken place. Engineers have also worked through the wettest winter on record.” The wind turbine at Wanlip was named Windy by class one of Rothley primary school and the class will be visiting the turbine this spring. The turbine is one of four located at the company’s sewage treatment works, with two in Derby and one in Newthorpe, near Nottingham. It is expected to generate 5000 megawatt hours of electricity for the water treatment works. Renewable energy specialist at Severn Trent, Jon Beeson, said: “The team constructing the turbines have pulled out all the stops to get them generating power as quickly as possible. With Windy’s blades turning and producing power for the first time we’re making history here in Leicestershire – as the tallest structure in the county now generates clean, renewable energy. “We’re a responsible company and we already generate almost a quarter of Continued on back page

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is still required if you are selling or renting out your house. Call David Jackson on 0781 5519490 to arrange your EPC

Birstall Parish Council Clerk Sue Coulson complained to Charnwood’s Monitoring Officer that Cllr Simon Sansome had breached the members code of conduct. The complaint was that comments posted by Cllr Sansome on the Spotted Birstall Facebook page were untruthful, selective, challenging, disrespectful to the Parish Council and councillors, judgemental and self rewarding/gratifying. The complaint also alleged that Cllr Sansome’s comments indicated his role was to monitor, challenge and ridicule the Parish Council in the public eye. His comments related to issues he had raised at a meeting of Birstall Parish Council when he had requested the Council install grit bins and consider recording council meetings. The Code of Conduct requires that holders or public office must be truthful and treat others with respect. Charnwood’s Monitoring Officer Adrian Ward considered the complaint and rejected it. He ruled that the issues raised by Cllr Sansome in his Facebook posting were legitimate and that the wording used by him was not disrespectful in any way. He said that the regulations Cllr Sansome referred to in respect of recording meetings were not applicable to Parish Councils and that Cllr Sansome had offered to issue a correction. The Monitoring Officer’s report also included the view of an independent person, who advised that social networking sites are not the appropriate place for reporting council business. Cllr Sansome said: “I went to my first

Horse welfare campaign A BIRSTALL woman is backing a campaign that aims to help horses suffering from neglect. Pam King joined a group of protestors that travelled to London on April 16 to hold a peaceful protest at the Houses of Parliament. The Help the Horses campaign is demanding that DEFRA stop relying on the RSPCA to tackle the horse welfare crisis and come up with an enforcement process that works. The campaign was started after neglected horses were found in a field close to Fosse Park, Leicester. Pam said: “It is not just happening in Leicester, it is happening to horses all over the country, so much so that charities say they cannot cope with all the horse neglect cases they are receiving. We want the owners to be shamed into caring for these animals and being prosecuted if they do not provide them with their basic needs – food, fresh water and a safe environment.” More details: Google: ‘help the horses of Fosse Park’

Birstall Parish Council meeting as the newly elected Borough Councillor and instead of being welcomed I found a formal complaint was made about me. I felt insulted and disappointed. I would like to work with Birstall Parish Council to get things done for the community.” Birstall Parish Council Chairman Ann Marshall said: “We accept the decision of the Monitoring Officer and regret that Cllr Sansome has not yet issued a correction as he said he would do. We will continue to try and work with him in the future.”

Ceramic market A CERAMIC celebration will take place in Loughborough as the town welcomes the fifth annual Ceramic Market. From 11.30am on Sunday May 18 for one day only, Loughborough will welcome 44 stalls selling all things ceramic, from pots to plates and sculptures. This year there are new stall holders, as well as some seasoned pros, and I know there will be an exciting range of hand-crafted designs” said a spokesman. Ceramics in Charnwood will also have a charity stall for Cancer Research and Ataxia UK, selling plant pots

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2014

Turbine continued from page 19

Charity cycle ride The Charnwood Forest Cycle Ride is back for its fourth year on June 22, sponsored by the Woodies pub and Bradleys. Spokeswoman for the charity Alex’s Wish Emma Hallam said: “Please come and join in, you’ll get your healthy dose of fresh air, enjoy spectacular views around the stunning Charnwood Forest whilst cycling for an incredibly worthwhile cause. It’s a fabulous opportunity to get back into cycling again after the winter months, so whether or not you are a keen cyclist, there’s never been a better time to dust off your bike in time for the summer months. “The route is all on open roads and is well signposted with marshal points at every junction. The circular route starts and finishes in Rothley village and has been carefully chosen to ensure maximum safety and enjoyment. At the end, you’ll be treated to complimentary yummy home made cakes and refreshments – a perfect thought to get you through the ride.” The route is a sponsored ride in aid of Alex’s Wish, a registered charity set-up to raise vital funds for an incurable childhood muscle wasting disease called Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Alex is an 8 year old boy from Rothley who was diagnosed with the condition in 2010. Alex’s Wish are investing in innovative medical breakthroughs to help all children lead a longer more fulfilled life with the aim of finding a cure. The event organisers would also welcome volunteers to marshal and help out with refreshments on the day. If you are unable to ride but would like to help, please get in touch. To register a discounted early-bird entry fee is £20 which includes an event pack with your sponsorship form and top tips, a complementary t-shirt to wear on the day, refreshments on the day, cakes at the end of the ride. A late-entry fee of £25 will apply if you register on the day. The easier and quickest way to register or to download the registration form is to visit the event website at www.charnwoodforestcycleride.co.uk. You can also pick up a registration form at your local post office or email kim@alexswish.co.uk requesting one be posted out to you.

John Rigley sent us this photo of the turbine and invites readers to guess where it was taken from (answer at the end of this article) our energy from renewable sources, including crop digestion, water and sewage gas power. The wind turbines now add to this and will hopefully see

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TELEPHONE EXTENSION Sockets fitted by ex-BT engineer. Cable, BT and digital TV. Over 25 yrs experience. John 2675132 AMLI DESIGN Architectural Consultancy. Plans drawn and submitted. Extensions, conversions, new build. David Ives B.Sc.(Hons) FBEng MCIOB 0116 2674395 / 07974807111 www.amlidesign.co.uk LOST: granddaughter’s pink Princess watch in Birstall village on Tuesday April 15. Please contact 0116 2677372

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Photo taken from Watermead Court (flats next to the Co-op, Wanlip Lane)

TAKE PART in a charity cycle ride through the Charnwood countryside to help raise money for a local charity.

us generating a third of our energy from renewable sources by 2015. We’ve thought carefully about the resources that we have as a company. Before we installed any of the wind turbines, we carried out wind tests at 5,000 different sites – from that number, less than ten proved to be suitable to install large wind turbines. “As well as reducing our carbon footprint, by generating more renewable energy we help to protect our customers from future energy price rises. The renewable energy we produce today means that our power bill is reduced and this helps us to make sure that our customers continue to have the lowest combined household water and sewerage bills in England and Wales.” He added: “We hope that the local communities welcome the wind turbines as their neighbours. We understand that some people find them beautiful and some people don’t. We’ve done all we can to help residents understand the reasons why they’ve been constructed and the benefits they’ll bring.” Severn Trent Water has donated more than £100,000 to benefit local community organisations and schools in the four areas that the turbines have been constructed. As part of this the Rothley Centre is having solar panels installed to help reduce its power bills, and improvements have been made to the village hall in Wanlip.

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