the Birstall post Y O U R
C O M M U N I T Y
OCTOBER 2014
N E W S P A P E R
www.birstallpost.co.uk
No. 375
Top award for Scout Sarah
A NEW school created from the merger of Stonehill High School and Longslade College will open in August 2015.
A BIRSTALL Scout leader has received the top award in scouting. Sarah Dolby (24) was awarded the Queen’s Scout Award, and the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, at a ceremony held at Birstall Scout HQ on Birstall road. Sarah said: “I feel very proud of myself that I have achieved both the awards, as I never thought I would get through them, it takes a lot of hard work and commitment to complete the awards. I’m very proud and honoured to say that I am a Queen’s Scout and hold the Duke of Edinburgh award.” To gain the awards, Sarah completed a physical challenge, took part in an expedition in the Yorkshire Moors, and completed a five night residential at a firefighting training course in Norfolk. She also took up a new skill, singing with the St James Gospel choir, and a new physical activity: geocaching. Adrian Wray, County Secretary with Leicestershire Scouts, presented Sarah with her award. He said: “I’m privileged to be invited to present Sarah with her award. Sarah is an active leader and all those skills she has learnt during the award will be seen by the young people she works with each week.” Sarah, who works at the National Space Centre, has been involved with scouting since she was 16 and a leader for the last seven years. She said: “I
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Birstall’s new school The new 11-19 school will be part of Lionheart Academies Trust which already incorporates Stonehill High, Riverside Primary and Highcliffe Primary along with Beauchamp College in Oadby. The Trust says that staff across all the schools are already looking for ways in which the best from each school or college can be shared to raise standards for all, and the Birstall schools are benefiting from the support of Beauchamp College, which is the county’s highest performing 14-19 school. Continued on page 2
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Pic: Sarah Dolby receives her award from Adrian Wray
have achieved so much out of scouting, I am more confident in myself, and have gained so much independence and skills. Every day is a new challenge, and you learn something new. If it wasn’t for the leadership teams I volunteer and work with I wouldn’t have got where I am
today, so for that I would like to say a big thank you!” Sarah will receive her Duke of Edinburgh certificate at a ceremony at St James’ Palace and will be attending the Queen’s St George’s Day parade at Windsor Castle in 2015.
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School continued from page 1 Hugh Howe, Executive Principal of Lionheart Academies Trust, said: “We are delighted with the work already taking place to bring together Stonehill and Longslade and the excellent progress being made in standards at Longslade. We have a busy year ahead of us in preparation for the opening of the new school in August but we’re confident that the hard work and skill of staff, parents and governors will ensure that we build a school we can all be proud of.” The school’s new name was chosen after consulting students and was an-
nounced on October 1 (after this issue had gone to press). Christine Swan, Chair of the Lionheart Academies Trust, said: “We’ve developed a master plan which draws together the existing buildings and as funding becomes available we hope to build additional areas beginning with a new reception and admin block between Longslade’s Design block and the library. This will enable us to work more efficiently and to save costs in the long term.” Plans for providing primary school teaching on the site have emerged as an option following discussions between the County Council and developer Jelson Homes, who are required to provide funding for education as part of the 106 agreement associated with Hallam Fields that was signed in 2003. Christine Swan said: “We have spoken to the Local Authority about primary education in Birstall and the need for a new school but no firm plans have been agreed as yet.” She added: “The Executive Board is looking at a staffing structure for the new school which includes the senior leadership team. No decision has been made about appointing senior leaders into this structure but we aim to use a fair and transparent process.”
Cheerleaders a big hit A CHEERLEADING squad that trains at Highcliffe School performed in front of the crowd at Leicestershire County cricket ground this summer. “It was a great honour to be asked to perform there and the girls loved every minute of it, we are now hoping to become their official cheerleaders for next season” said Amy Owen of the Dynamite
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Cheerleaders. The squad are now preparing their annual show in November. Amy said: “It is always a very exciting time for everyone involved. Our theme this year will see us going back in time through all the different eras of music.” The group trains on a Wednesday night at Highcliffe School, teaching cheerleading, dance and tumble/gymnastics. Cheery tots sessions are held for toddlers. The group are looking to recruit new cheerleaders – to find out more call Amy 0792 1768449 amy@schoolofcheer.co.uk
Get into teaching THOSE LOOKING to get into a career in teaching can now train at a local school. Stonehill, Roundhill and Wreake Valley schools are part of a hub that offer ‘School Direct’ teacher training, with the aim of securing a post at the school when you qualify. Initial Teacher Training co-ordinator at Stonehill High School Elizabeth Meillon, said: “The recruiting process with teaching has changed majorly over the last two years. Schools are now recruiting themselves through a family of schools. “We offer a high quality teacher training programme where you can obtain a secondary PGCE accreditation in your chosen subject area, and Masters credits.” Training is offered across the 11-18 age range. Tuition fees are £9000 and bursaries of up to £20,000 are available. For more information contact Elizabeth Meillon at Stonehill, stnhill@stonehill.leics.sch.uk
THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2014
3
Parish Talented boxers visit gym Council notes TWO TOP boxers visited Carl Gunns’ gym on Birstall Road and gave the young people that train there a glimpse of the sport at a competitive level.
Two candidates wee co-opted to fill vacancies on the council: Geoff Green and Connor McNicholl. Borough Cllr David Gaskell reported that work to extend and refurbish Riversdale Court on Riversdale Close will start in October. A representative from Birstall Allotment Society has provided a list of actions agreed by the Council but not carried out. The Council received an action sheet of works in progress relating to the Office and the Estates team. The Council has considered a request from a resident to allow pedestrians to use the new access track on Meadow Lane, and to install gates. The clerk reported that the track was never intended for pedestrians, pedestrian access would remain the same as it always was and that use of the track by pedestrians when maintenance machinery is using the track would be a health and safety risk. After discussion it was decided not to allow pedestrian access. The council agreed to spend £1842 on resurfacing the small car park outside the Council Office and £240 on repairs to the roller shutters on the School Lane pavilion.
Pics: (top, l-r) Paige Murney, Carl Gunns & Leon Woodstcok & (below) with young people in Gunns’ Gym
PHOTOS: NICK LINNETT PHOTOGRAPHY
A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on September 8.
England Boxing National Champion Paige Murney and top prospect Leon Woodstock, who train at Leicester’s Unity Boxing club, visited the gym to encourage those boxing for fitness to consider competing. Unity coach Ajmal ‘Hudge’ Butt and Donna Brady, England Boxing Club’s support officer in the East Midlands, accompanied the two fighters. Ajmal said: “Paige took her medals and the belt she won in her recent international to inspire the women at Gunns' gym. Although it isn’t affiliated to England Boxing, the gym has over 70 regular female participants in its boxing sessions, so it was great to have an opportunity to inspire some of them to take their interest further and join an England Boxing club.” Carl Gunns said: “It was a very suc-
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cessful evening, the gym was packed and everyone thought Paige and Leon were terrific. “Paige spoke how she got into boxing aged 18, that she did it at first just to keep fit but then decided it was a sport she wanted to take up, one or two of my girls said to me afterwards they would
like to take it further after Paige’s visit.” He added: “I’m astounded by the success of Unity and really respect what the guys and girls there have achieved. I have a lot of talent coming through and have no qualms referring these new talented boxers to Unity to further their progression in the sport.”
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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2014
Progress for promising triathlete AN EIGHTEEN year old from Birstall is making a name for himself as an international triathlete. James Teagle has just returned from Canada where he was competing for Great Britain in the Elite Junior World championships. In a competitive field of 72 athletes from 30 nations, James finished 22nd. “I’ll aim for top ten next year!” said James. Crowned Junior British Champion in August. James only took up triathlon three years ago when he joined Leicester Triathlon club. He currently races for Racetime Triathlon Club and trains with British Triathlon at Loughborough University. James was recently awarded a grant from local charity the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust (JHMT), set up in memory of Joe Humphries who died aged 14 while out jogging near his home in Rothley. James said: “I’m really glad I applied for an Inspire Award. They gave me a grant of £235 and I used the money to help me compete in the Geneva Europe-
New parkour facility A PARK specifically designed for the exciting urban sport of Parkour has been created in Charnwood thanks to the borough council and a group of young people. Construction of the new facility, in Southfields Park, Loughborough, was completed last month. The council has been working with local teenagers and the Parkour community across the East Midlands to create a bespoke park for Parkour enthusiasts – known as Traceurs. The park has been designed by Natural Sports, a company that designs Parkour facilities. Councillor David Snartt, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Services, said: “It’s great to see how this
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Pic: Triathlete James Teagle
an Junior Cup where, despite my goggles snapping in the swim, I had my best European cup result yet, finishing 11th. I am hoping to build on this next year, in what will be my final year as a junior.
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“I’m absolutely passionate about triathlon and I’d like to thank the Trust as this money has helped me to compete abroad, gain valuable experience of international racing and continue to build my career as an athlete.” Launched in June, the Inspire Awards offer small grants and/or specialist support to city and county young people aged 13-19, to help them develop their talents. To find out more about the Inspire Awards and apply, go to www.jhmt.org.uk/inspire
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project has grown, our Sport and Active Recreation team has been working in communities to bring Parkour to young people and now the interest has grown it’s great to see a permanent site. “I would like to thank all the youngsters who joined us to help decide on the look and design of the equipment, along with members of the Parkour community. Not only will the park provide a safer environment for traceurs to test out their skills, but it will also be a great place for beginners to learn and be fit and active.” Parkour is the artful discipline of getting from point A to point B in the straightest, fastest and most efficient way. It usually involves manoeuvring over various obstacles such as rails, walls, pipes or trees. The park in Southfields features various obstacles and has been funded by £42,000 of Section 106 money. The Council’s Sports and Active Recreation team is also working with Jump Parkour to bring a mobile Parkour kit to the borough, providing residents across Charnwood with the chance to give the sport a go. Marcus Reader from Natural Sports said: “We are excited to be creating a destination facility for Parkour within the Charnwood Borough. This will be a truly bespoke design created with the local users. Many of the features on this facility are ground breaking taking the Parkour training facilities to a different level whilst catering for all abilities. In partnership with Jump Parkour we will support the facility to ensure the engagement through parkour continues to grow.”
THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2014
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Community choir’s anniversary concert A COMMUNITY choir that has many members from Birstall within its ranks will be celebrating its tenth birthday with a special concert later this month. The Leicester Amika choir was founded by its leader Una May Olomolaiye. Originally known as the Peepul Choir, it changed its name to Amika, which means ‘friendly’ in Esperanto. Birstall resident and choir member Steve Clifton said: “I heard about Amika through taking part in Sing for Water, having met and worked with Una May I knew that if she had a local choir then I had to be a part of it. I followed the choir by their website and it was a new year’s resolution I made in 2012 to join. My only regret is that I didn’t do it sooner.” To celebrate ten years of singing together Amika set about recording a CD, making good use of the excellent acoustics in Birstall Methodist Church, and the
Pic: Leicester Amika Choir performing outside Birstall Methodist Church recording skills of Studio 3 Zero, a Birstall based professional recording studio, to produce their CD ‘Let it Rain’. The CD is available through the choir website (www.amika.org.uk) and from choir member and Birstall resident Louise Hall by phoning her on 0777 33 53 482. Amika will celebrate their tenth year
Local law surgery A QUALIFIED solicitor from Birstall is offering local residents free face to face consultations at a local surgery. Sunny Patel of Greengate Lane, Birstall is now a practising solicitor for Highcross Law Solicitors based in the city centre. Sunny (28) has lived in Birstall all his life and studied at Highcliffe Prima-
ry School, Stonehill High School and Longslade Community College. While studying at university he had a part time job for several years at the McColls and Bargain Booze Shops within the centre of the village. Sunny said: “I love Birstall, I still live in Birstall and intend to do so for many years. Having studied and worked in Birstall and having so many local friends, I wish to contribute further to the local community.” Sunny intends to set up a local sur-
with a special concert at the Peepul centre. Singing a range of songs from around the world from traditional gospel to modern pop songs, Amazing Grace, Stand by Me, Happy and Feeling Good,. There will be a little something for everybody to get the toes tapping and faces
smiling” said Steve. The 10th Anniversary Concert is on Saturday October 11 from 7.30pm at the Peepul Centre, Orchardson Ave, Leicester LE4 6PD. Tickets £9 are available from the Peepul Centre and choir members.
gery within the village which will enable local residents access to a free face to face consultation on legal matters. He can also be contacted directly on 0758 1464711 or by email sunnypatel@highcrosslaw.co.uk. Sunny has a particular expertise in employment law and community care law issues. Highcross Law Solicitors is a Leicester based practice with a national as well as international client base. The company offers advice and assistance with residential conveyancing, commercial property, family law, wills, trusts and probate, company law, employment law, employment law and court of protection matters. The practice also offers
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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2014
Exhibition staged in Rothley A GROUP of local artists are staging an exhibition of their work. The Soar Valley Artists’ 12th Annual exhibition will be held in the Rothley Centre on Mountsorrel Lane on Saturday & Sunday October 11/12 from 10am to 5pm
Stonehill students meet the Mayor CHARNWOOD’S MAYOR, Cllr Paul Day, visited Stonehill High School for a special assembly last month. The Mayor received student pledges from the newly elected school council
representatives. The assembly was the
culmination of two days’ activities where students were tasked to strive for success, make a contribution and successfully work together. The theme this year involved the children collaboratively discussing and putting forward proposals about the values and vision for the new school that will result from the merger of Stonehill and Longslade, and how they can contribute. Pics: (top) Mayor Paul Day and Mayoress Pauline Day meet with Stonehill students Lewis Timson (11), Laura Mayoh-Smith (11), Lula-Mae Toon (11) and Harrison Tacey (11) before the assembly; (centre) the mayor presented certificates; (left) artwork created by the students that identifies the values of the new school
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Spokesman John Beckett said: “The society was formed in October 2002. Our main objective is to further our love of art and to continuously improve our standard of work in enjoyable company. We meet to paint on Monday evenings at Sileby and Wednesday mornings at Rothley. The year’s programme includes workshops, demonstrations, critique
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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2014
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Bowling Volunteers make a difference club titles MAKING FRIENDS, baking cakes and meeting the Queen – just some of the highlights of being a Girlguiding volunteer.
BIRSTALL LADIES Bowling Club members won three titles at the county finals, which took place at Narborough last month. Pa Walker won the two wood singles with a 17-10 victory over Coalville’s Jackie Watson. She also won the triples with daughter Noi and Jan Everitt. They beat a Market Bosworth triple skipped by Chris Massie 20-11 with an end to spare. Pa then teamed up with Val Ross, Jan Everitt and Di Hurst to edge home 22-20 in the fours against a team from New Lount, skipped by Carol Dixon, to make it a hat trick of wins. This is the seventh time a team from Birstall has won this competition and the sixth time in the last eight years. Meanwhile, Pam Ratcliffe, Di Hartop and Jan Everitt reached the latter stages of the county two wood triples competition, losing out to a triple from Syston in the semi final. Finally this month, the club recently held its annual charity fixture against Rushey Mead, with £133 raised for the local St John Ambulance branch, which included a £50 donation from Rushey Mead.
Baby shop A NEW shop selling new and nearly new baby equipment has opened at Greenacres. Run by the Leicestershire Charity ADAPT Prembabies, the shop, located on The Sidings near to the Birstall GCR station, has been set up on a three month trial basis to help raise funds for the group. ‘ADAPT’ Prembabies is completely self funding so having this new shop is really helping to raise the much needed money for us to be able to continue “ said a spokeswoman. “We hope you will all pop by to say hello and pick up a bargain or two!” ADAPT Prembabies supports parents and families of premature and poorly babies. The shop is open most Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11am until 3pm but to ensure it is open, before you leave home check on www.facebook.com/ADAPT/Prembaby. For more information, or to donate unwanted baby items, contact Lindsay Rajczyk on lindsay@prembabies.co.uk, www.prembabies.co.uk
“We have volunteers who have visited Russia, Switzerland and Japan, have slept at Conkers and the Space Centre, met the Queen, enjoyed scuba diving, archery, grass sledging and boating” said Helen Sibson, a leader at 3rd Birstall Brownies, who says she was amazed at the replies when she asked about the Guiding experiences of the current Rainbow, Brownie and Guide leaders at Birstall. “They have held owls, built space rockets – from cardboard, baked a lot of cakes and made Pic: (l-r) Girlguiding volunteers Marie Upton, Melissa Berry, Megan Lawrenson & Helen Sibson friends in a new area. All these things waiting list of girls wanting to join and their confidence and capabilities develop, have been possible because of being this will only be possible if we recruit says Helen. Girlguiding volunteers.” some new volunteers. Leader Marie Upton added “Due to Many of the leaders start volunteering “All volunteer Leaders give their time retirements and relocations we are curon an occasional basis, but soon find that freely to ensure our young members have rently in need of new leaders and helpers with experience and support from other fun and enjoy the opportunities that Guidin Birstall. Most of our groups have a leaders and Girlguiding training sessions ing can offer in a safe environment.” Girlguiding welcomes volunteers of all backgrounds, cultures, faiths and abilities. They carry out recruitment checks on all volunteers who work directly with young members. You can volunteer to help out with: Rainbows aged 5-7, Brownies aged 7-10, Guides aged 10 to 14 or the Senior Section aged 14 to 26. Helen said: “So, women of Birstall, if you want the opportunity to travel, do something adventurous, learn a new craft, be part of a show or just be in charge of the barbeque while making a difference to the lives of local girls then please come and join us.” For more information and to volunteer visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested
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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 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
Thanks I would like to thank the very kind gentleman who gave me a donation of £10 for the Alzheimer's Memory Walk. I called in to Paper Kisses on Sibson Road to ask if they would put up a poster advertising the walk and the man, who I did not know, obviously overheard me and said that it was a very good cause and just handed me the money. How very kind of him to give that donation and I would like to thank him on behalf of the Alzheimer's Society. The Memory Walk took place on Sunday September 14 at Abbey Park and has, hopefully, raised a good amount of money. Doreen Atkins (Alzheimer's volunteer)
Scratched This is to the people had parked their car at the Greengate Medical Centre at 3.20pm on Wednesday September 3. I
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parked next to their car as they left their car to go into the surgery. I pushed in my wing mirrors and made sure that I had left as much room as possible for them to get in when they had finished their appointment. When I came out another car had parked next to me with plenty of room. On going to unlock my car I noticed a blue scratch mark and a small dent. I would just like to comment on the fact that if I had dented someone else's car I would have informed the receptionist at the surgery and left my details. As the surgery quite rightly states they have no legal responsibility for cars parked there and no CCTV I am now left with a damaged car. You know who you are and I hope that your conscience troubles you. I acknowledge that it is up to the patient whether one parks there or not and obviously don't blame them. Janice Colver
Smile I came across the enclosed in my files recently. With so much ‘gloom’ and ‘doom’ about today I think a warm smile does a person a power of good. A Smile A smile costs nothing, but gives much It enriches those who receive without making poorer those who give It takes but a moment, but the memory of it sometimes lasts for ever None is so rich or mighty that he can get along without it, and none is so poor but that he can be made rich by it A smile creates happiness in the home, fosters good will in business and is the countersign of friendship It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, it is nature’s best antidote for trouble Yet it cannot be bought, begged, borrowed or stolen, for it is something that is of no value to anyone until it is given away Some people are too tired to give you a smile Give them one of yours, as none
needs a smile so much as he who has no more to give Anon From Roy Evans
Remember I am forwarding below a very moving prose, written by my granddaughter Lexie Mcloughlin which seems particularly relevant at this time of remembrance for the start of World War 1. Having been asked to create an appropriate piece of work at her school, Riverside, Birstall, she came up with the work below on her own! Being only 9 it occurs to me that the sentiment contained within the verse touches to the core of our need to remember those who fell for us in past conflicts. D-Day 70years later When you say to someone Oh I'm sorry to hear about your leg Or I'm sorry to hear about your arm But no one realises that the people on D-Day died to save us A kiss in the morning never felt so lost Return to me my loved one soon Tears in my face for those who were gone never to come back A hug is all I have to offer for them all Thank you to every one for the life you gave Family is forever and never forgotten Love from Lexie (aged 9)
Thanks CLASH 2012 would like to say a huge thank you to everybody that attended our annual coffee morning on Saturday August 23 at the Birstall Methodist church. We would also like to express our gratitude and thanks to the many local organisations that donated raffle and tombola prizes towards the morning too. We raised an outstanding amount of £373.05 which would not have been
Now enrolling new students in all age groups: BABY BALLET - 2-4 YEARS BABY STAGE - 5-7 YEARS JUNIOR STAGE - 8-10 YEARS INTER STAGE - 11-14 YEARS SENIOR STAGE - 15 AND OVER Weekly classes in the following subjects: Classical Ballet, Classical Greek, Modern Jazz,, Lyrical, Tap, Speech & Drama, Acrobatics, Stage, Musical Theatre, National & Commercial
We offer a ‘FREE FIRST LESSON’ to enable prospective students to come and join in and have a look round. Starlight Theatre School Hadrian Road, Mowmacre Hill, Leicester LE4 2PQ
Tel: 0116 2355495 Email: starlighttheatre@me.com www.starlighttheatreschool.com
possible without the many donations that we received and also without the continued support of the local people and our members who attended. Thank you to all of you! Karen Martin, CLASH 2012
Park I've just picked up on the recent discussion re cyclists etc at Watermead. I pay an annual fee to fish in the park and I'm a frequent walker in the park throughout the year. Subscribers to this annual permit receive a quite prescriptive set of rules, regulations and caveats covering their activities in the park, totalling a whole side of an A4 page in fine print, yet nowhere do I find a reference that states one is obliged to put up with dogs that owners seemingly cannot or will not control. Recently I politely asked a dog owner with five or six dogs to control her animals. The response was "You again! Don't you start again, I've had enough of you." The fact that I had never seen this person before in my life speaks volumes, and demonstrates better than any words of mine that the person had previously been in conflict with other park users. The vast majority of dog owners are responsible and in control of their dogs and often chat with me whilst I'm fishing, even though neither of us is known to the other. When dogs trample all over my equipment and ignore the ineffectual admonishments of their owners, quite aside from the inconvenience, I genuinely worry that the dogs will injure themselves. In the event of such a risk actually occurring, these same owners will want to blame me for injury to their animal. A dog that is not properly trained and controlled is a liability to itself, other dogs, other park users, particularly children and of course to its owner. There are notices at various points asking people not to feed the water birds yet people continue to blithely ignore this. It does the birds no favours: they are wild fauna and the thoughtless feeding, seen as an entertainment, has already started to change the bird’s natural habits in ways that expose them to a variety of risks. The seasonal blue green algae warnings are largely ignored. This year has seen possibly the worst outbreak of blue green algae for some time, yet I've witnessed dog owners throwing sticks in the water, followed by their dog(s) plunging in after them. In addition to this there have also been several occasions when I have seen people swimming in King Herod lake, whereas I had been led to believe that swimming is not permitted. Clearly there are issues that affect various users within the park and I can confirm Mrs Gamble’s observations re some cyclists. In view of the prevailing situation it seems
THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2014
to me that it is simply a matter of time before a more problematic confrontation occurs in connection with the foregoing and at this juncture it is difficult to see what can be done to prevent such an outcome. Mike Muse
Lights I’ve recently noticed that a lot of street lights are on in the day time, since they have been altered to switch off during part of the night. I have tried to report them, but after today I have decided not to bother again. When I reported a light on in my road, it was two weeks before it was fixed, and only a couple of days before it was back on in the day time. I’ve rung the number, it rings and rings, you get an automated message and eventually, if you are lucky, someone answers. They seemed more interested in who I was, where I lived, and what my phone number was, than why I was ringing. If you have the exact location but not the number on the light, they don’t want to know. Today I rang the same number to report light number 4 on Orchard Road, I was told that I had to ring a different number. Funny, I have always ring the same number for Birstall street lights. So why bother, I have better things to do with my time. That’s probably who the street lights are left glowing, if you’ve tried to report it and had no luck, like me you say “I won’t bother again!” Disgruntled Council Tax Payer
Pong For the last few weeks there has been an awful smell in Birstall. Some days it is so bad that you want to stay indoors with the windows closed. I have been told that it’s not coming from the sewage works, so who is responsible? and is anything being done to stop it. ‘Breathless of Birstall’
Noticeboard all details printed free Birstall Birdwatching Club Tuesday October 14 Chile - South to North by Pam Darby Pam will take us on a journey from the soaring mountains of Patagonia in the south to the arid Atacama desert in the north. Chile is a long, thin country with very varied habitats and a rich abundance of wildlife. So please come along and let Pam share her experience of this wonderful country. Meetings are at The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Visitors are most welcome £2 Free parking on site and easy access Further information from Ken Goodrich 0116 2674813
Autumn Fair on Sat October 25, The Rothley Centre. Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley. 10am till 12 noon. Admission 50 p. Rt Hon Stephen Dorrell MP will be attending. Raffle, Tombola, Books, Produce Stalls, Cakes, Games, Vegetables
Birstall Royal British Legion 4th Colin James (M/V) 11th Karen West(F/V) 18th Lesley (F/V) 25th Neil Alexander (M/V) Dancing every Saturday night with live entertainment Bingo, Free beer raffle and not forgetting Open the Box Every Tuesday night Bingo starting at 9.15pm Quiz nights Sunday 12th and 26th October starting at 9pm Acoustic night Sunday 19th October at 8pm Food available every Saturday 12-2pm
Wakes catered for
Light Lunches served 12 - 1.30pm
Food available 12-2pm families welcome
New outside seating area
Film Presentations
Birstall Flower Club
From Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council
October 22, 2014, 7.15pm Birstall Village Hall Demonstration by Judi Cripps entitled “What’s in a Title” Visitors welcome - £5 Queries to Sylvia: 0116 2674206 or Mary Linnett: 0116 2672247
Birstall & District Local History Society The next meeting will take place on Thursday 9th October 2014 at 7.30pm in the Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall, Leics LE4 4DH. The subject of the talk will be "You cannot be Serious" and the speaker Mike Rawle. There is parking for cars on the School Lane entrance of the Birstall Playing Fields. Visitors are very welcome to join us for this talk.
Quorn Badminton Club Rawlins Community College Sports Hall ( 4 Courts) Monday evenings 7.45 - 9.45 Just come and experience having fun playing matches with us. Further Information 0116 2106 71
Birstall Methodist Church Friday 28th November 10am - 7pm Sat 29th November 10am - 2pm
Christmas Festival (admission to the Church £1 accompanied children free)and
Christmas Market Gifts,decorations,& crafts, home-made cakes & preserves, raffle & tombola Table Tops in the hall on Saturday (Tables @ £10 -contact 0116 2671181) Coffee Shop open throughout the event
“Mandela - Long Walk to Freedom” Friday October 17 (139 mins) Starring Naomie Harris and Idris Elba, this film is drawn from the memoirs of the South African statesman, Nelson Mandela. It stretches from his childhood to his almost unbelievable inauguration. It delves into the complex politics as well as difficult relationships within his family. Elba brings out the courageous determination of Mandela and his charismatic personality. This has been the greatest challenge of Elba's acting career.
“The Monuments Men” Friday Nov 14 (118 mins) Based on a true story, a WW11 platoon begins the task of recovering stolen masterpieces from the hands of Nazi Germany. Claire, played by Cate Blanchett, was risking her life by noting down every piece of artwork that was being taken. This allowed the Monuments Men, one of whom is played by Hugh Bonneville of “Downton Abbey”, to go in after D-Day to try to locate the art as it was being “spirited” away. This film blends excitement with comedy.
“About Time”: Friday Dec 12 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. Advanced tickets can be reserved via the parish office - 0116 236 7626 or bought at the door.
Highcliffe Amateur Theatrical Society hatsbirstall1@hotmail.co.uk Presents
Cinderella Two The Sisters Strike Back
Brickwork • Patios Re-pointing Tiling • Plaster Patching • Fencing etc
By Andrew Yates Thurs 27th, Friday 28th & Sat 29th November 7.15pm, Sat Matinee 2.30pm At Highcliffe Primary School Greengate Lane Birstall Tickets £6 adult, £5 conc, avail now 0116 2209594 or 0116 2128757 or email hatsbirstall1@hotmail.co.uk Our nominated charity for the raffle proceeds will be donated to Coping With Cancer. Don't Delay Book Your Tickets Today!
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Saving Mr Banks St James Church, Church Hill, Birstall on Friday October 17th at 7.00 pm Starring Emma Thompson and Tom
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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2014
Hanks A lovely, sentimental and quietly insightful account of the making of Mary Poppins that traces the roots of PL Travers's most famous creation to the author's personal paternal past. No charge, refreshments available
St James Day Centre 200 club September winners: 1st Mrs Lesley Walton 2nd Miss Sandra Robinson 3rd Miss Margaret Willows 4th Mr James Thomson Doctor to talk about
The Tarot A talk on The Tarot will be given by Dr Charlotte Venkatraman at the meeting of Leicestershire and Rutland Dowsers on Saturday, October 4. Dr Venkatraman is a qualified doctor and psychiatrist with NHS experience. She will explain in her talk how she became interested in Tarot cards. The meeting will take place as usual at St James' Day Centre, Birstall Village Hall, and will start at 10-30am. Admission is £3 for members and £5 for non-members. •
Tea Dance Ballroom, Sequence and Latin Friday 17th October 3.30 - 5.30pm £3 on the door includes refreshments Birstall Village Hall Birstall Road, Leicester LE4 4DH Come along for a great afternoon of dancing,socialising and excellent company and some good music. All welcome.
CLASH 2012 Events/activities Exercise sessions for individuals with Arthritis and other MSK conditions. Tue 1.00 - 2.00pm - General Fitness Wed 1.00 - 2.00pm - Chair based exercise sessions. Sports Hall, Peepul Centre, Orchardson Avenue, Leicester, LE4 6DP. Call Karen for further information on
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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
07954584402. Please note that there will be a weekly charge of £2 per session for non members of CLASH 2012 attending the above exercise sessions. CLASH 2012, a UK Online Centre, provides basic computer training at its After School e-learning sessions held in the Palmer Tomkinson Centre at Longslade Community College - Thursday 3.30pm-4.30pm term time only. UK Online has recently awarded CLASH 2012 a grant to support access to learning more about your health please visit www.learnmyway.com/whatnext/health to go direct to the 'BEING HEALTHY' landing page & please support CLASH 2012 by taking the Digital Health Survey including our centre number 3420633 For further information please contact Conrad on 07919844629 or Mark on 07801718908 CLASH 2012 Monthly Meeting Wednesday 8th October at the Palmer Tomkinson Centre, Longslade Community College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, LE4 4GH - 7.00 - 9.00pm - Poetry workshop, Lydia Towsey. Arts in health coordinator.
24-hour Tennis Challenge Friday October 24 5pm until Saturday October 25 5pm Birstall Watermead Tennis club Co-operative Sports and Social Club, Birstall Road Sign up for fun activities and help club coach Laura complete 24 hours of continuous tennis to raise funds for the Meningitis Research Foundation and new junior equipment. Includes BBQ, coffee and cakes for sale, kids’ sessions, beat the coach, cardio tennis, individual coaching, wipeout and waves, midnight mixed doubles and more… Suggested donation £5 per child and £10 per adult Contact Laura Morley 07742249807 www.birstallwatermeadtennis.co.uk
Old Nick’s
Coffee Shop Fed up sitting at home on your own. Want to sit and chat over a cup of tea/coffee? (Biscuits/Cakes will be available) The Coffee Shop will be open on the 3rd Tuesday of the month. Come and join us on Tuesday October 21, Wanlip Church & Community Centre, Wanlip, 10am – 12.30pm St. James The Great Church Hill, Birstall Sunday 2nd November at 3pm
All Souls Service We will be holding a short service of hymns/readings/prayers and reflection for those who have lost a loved one recently or in the past Open to everyone in the parish You will be very welcome Refreshments after the service
Events at Birstall library 16th October - 5.45pm to 6.30pm Bedtime Stories - Get ready for bed & bring your Ted! For 4 - 8 year olds. £1.00 per child (includes a drink & cookies) Booking essential, please contact Birstall Library on 0116 305 8756 17th October - 12.30pm to 1.30pm Sky Sailors! - The Royal Naval Air Service 1912-18. From 1912 until the formation of the RAF in April 1918, the Royal Navy had its own air force. From Gallipoli to the Western Front and Russia to Africa the RNAS fought in the air and on land. Come along and learn more about this innovative flying service. A talk at Birstall Library by Nick Marshall. Tickets are £ 2.50 for library members & £3.00 for non-members. Booking essential, please contact Birstall Library on 0116 305 8756
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Starting Monday 20th October Birstall Library Bumper Book Sale Come and grab a bargain! Friday 10th October 1-4pm
World Mental Health Day Drop in for a free mini-health check at Birstall library (including weight and blood pressure checks) Plus, find out more about Mental Health Awareness Day For more information please contact Victoria Brackenbury on 01509 634764 from Charnwood Borough Council Rothley Bowling Club
Autumn Fayre Saturday 15 November 2014 10am – 12 noon at Rothley Centre Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Admission 50p including tea/coffee. Craft items, homemade goods, jams, pickles, cakes, etc. books, bric-a-brac, bottle tombola; raffle, refreshments. Everyone Welcome Please Come & Give Us Your Support
Birstall & District Art Society
20th Annual Exhibition Nov 1st-Nov 3rd at the Village Hall, Birstall Road, Leicester, LE4 4DH. Open 9.30am-5pm Sat & Sun, 9.30am3pm Mon. Free admission, wheelchair access, refreshments, free parking to the rear of the village hall. Visit: www.badas.org
St James Gospel Choir Do you want to join a choir where there are no auditions, sing Christian and popular songs, and make lasting friendships? Then come along to our next practise on Friday 14th November 2014, St James Church, Church Hill, Birstall at 7:30pm.
Adult Table Tennis Term-time Thursdays at Highcliffe School, Greengate Lane, 8-9pm. Enthusiastic non-league group would welcome extra players. Pop in one evening or ring John Stevens on 01162674241.
Yoga Class Thursdays 7-8 pm at Palmer Tomkinson Centre, Longslade College. £4.50 a class. Pay as you attend. Start date is Thursday 2nd October. Contact Susan 07765808667 or email yogawithsusan@hotmail.co.uk
Rearsby Art Club Art And Craft Exhibition Inc. Craft and Painting demonstrations with opportunities to have a go yourself! Rearsby Village Hall, Sat 11th October & Sun 12th October 2014, 11am - 4pm Admission £1 (inc. one free tea/coffee) For more details contact 01664424696
Craft Fair Saturday November 1st Rearsby Village Hall, 11 – 3pm
THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2014
Christmas Gifts for all the family Refreshments available all day Proceeds for St.Michael’s Church , Rearsby. To book a table ring Rita 01664424696 Belgrave Cemetery
Remembrance Day Service
• Thurmaston library Thursday 23rd October 5.45 – 6.45pm (Tel: 0116 3053513) • Sileby library Friday 24th October 5.45 – 6.45pm (Tel: 0116 3053683) • East Goscote Tuesday 28th October 5.45 – 6.45pm (Tel: 0116 3053510) Booking is essential due to limited capacity. “Come ready for bed and bring your ted”
Sunday 9th Nov 10.45am for 11am Service of Remembrance to be conducted by Rev Pam Haynes All are Welcome
Christmas Vintage Tea Party & Handmade Craft Fair
Leicester Amika Choir
Saturday 15th November from 10am2pm Vintage tea party including festive treats and bakes. Gifts and Decorations perfect for Christmas including handcrafted quality wooden and glass decorations, textile wear and home deco and paper illustrations and gift cards. Vintage clothing, accessories, jewellery and shabby chic deco. Contact info williams.fayealicia@gmail.com 07811069007
10th Anniversary Concert Saturday 11th October, 7.30pm Peepul Centre. Tickets £9 Tel: 0116 2616000
The Home Front in World War One Syston library has organised a very interesting talk on WW1 by renowned expert, Nick Marshall on Tuesday 4th November from 7 – 8.30pm. Tickets are £3 including refreshments and available in advance from Syston library Tel: 0116 3053500. Nationally, the Great War brought massive changes in society as women took up new jobs and the whole country was mobilised. Come along and find out : • How did the county's industry support the War Effort? • What happened when the war came home and wounded soldiers flooded into our local hospitals? • Why was Loughborough was bombed in 1916? • These questions and more will be answered in 'The Home Front in the Great War. • After the first rush to join up, many of the men of Britain were fighting around the world but what were conditions like for those at home? Due to limited capacity, reserve your tickets early to avoid disappointment. •
Halloween Bedtime Stories During half term week, Children aged 4 -8 years with their parents/carers are invited come along and enjoy a special bedtime story events across 5 libraries in the Syston group. Join us for milk, cookies, stories and craft activity for just £2 per child per session. • Rothley library Mon 20th October 5.45 – 6.45pm (Tel: 0116 3053671) • Syston library Tues 21st October 5.45 – 6.45pm (Tel: 0116 3053500)
Birstall Quilters Invite you to join them for a
Coffee Morning Saturday October 11 From 10am to 12noon Join your friends at the Methodist Church Coffee Lounge, Wanlip Lane Relax, take the opportunity to look at our Sale of Work and shop early for Christmas Raffle: 1st prize A quilt Proceeds to our Charity Parkinsons Society
Soar Valley Artists 12th Annual Exhibition The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Sat & Sun, Oct 11/12, 10am-5pm Come and enjoy our display of paintings as well as coffee
Modern History Talk by Dr Michael Lynch, University of Leicester ‘The EU – Glittering Success or Dismal Failure?” Tuesday October 21, 7-9.30pm Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane Tickets £5 Call Norman Pratt 0116 2375254 to book your ticket then pay on the door
Valuation Day At Belgrave Bowling Club Thurcaston Road, Leicester LE4 2QG Sat Oct 18, 10-2pm
The valuer is Vanessa Savage from Hansons Auctioneers Refreshments will be on sale while you wait and a small charge will be made for each item you bring for valuation If you wish to go ahead and send your items to auction Vanessa will make arrangements to do so on your behalf All welcome
Councillor Surgery Last Sat of every month 10am to 12noon 10 Sibson Road, Old Council Office Talk to your District & County Councillors to discuss any issue of local concern
Birstall & District Art Society Tuesday October 14 at 7pm You are invited to join us at the Palmer Tompkinson Centre at Longslade College to watch a demonstration by renowned professional artist Normal Rossiter entitled ‘Wildlife with Pheasants in Acrylics’. Come along, be amazed and inspired! Refreshments available at the interval. Demonstration to end at 9pm. Members £1; Guests £3 Free raffle. Ample parking and wheelchair access. The giants are getting closer, have you heard the rumours? They are bringing a great gift with them NEWS, good news for everyone in Birstall and beyond Birstall Methodist Women’s Monday Night Group
Coffee Morning Saturday October 4, 10am to 12noon at the Methodist coffee shop All proceeds to charity
Volunteers wanted To help run Bizzy Bees baby and toddler group Fridays between 9.45 & 12.15 Ring Laura 07814 544604
Birstall Community Stakeholders “Networking to support strong community links in Birstall” Friday October 10 at 9.30am Palmer Tompkinson Centre, Longslade College Hosted by the Birstall partnership of schools : Longslade, Stonehill, Highcliffe and Riverside Come and find out more about our NEW school opening August 2015, bringing Longslade and Stonehill into one excellent new 11-19 school Contact admin@birstallweb.org.uk to let us know you are coming
Dandelion Ball A fun filled star-studded night of eating, drinking and partying Saturday November 1 at The Hilton, East Midlands Airport Raiding funds for Alex’s Wish Tables of 10 are available at a cost of £600 and includes a 4 course banquet, wine and entertainment, silent and live auction and raffle with some super prizes up for grabs. Individual places are also available at a cost of £60 per person For details contact Emma Hallam emma@alexswish.co.uk 07903 349475 Sponsorship opportunities available For more details about Alex’s Wish visit www.slexswish.co.uk
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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2014
Penny Scotland v England at golf club bike ride A 30 MILE ride on a penny farthing bicycle will raise funds for the Leicester Baby Loss appeal, the chosen charity of Centrebus.
Pic: Thomas Manship
Birstall’s Thomas Manship, a Commercial Administrator at Centrebus, will be cycling the bus operator’s outer circle route, starting from the Leicester bus depot and taking in stops at Leicester General hospital and Glenfield hospital. “This is sure to be a great event to raise funds for a very sensitive cause” said Thomas. “It’ll be a long ride on the penny farthing but it will be a great way to raise awareness and support for the Leicester Baby Loss appeal.” “The appeal aims to create a selfcontained bereavement delivery suite within the birthing centre at the Leicester General Hospital specifically for mothers experiencing pregnancy loss or difficulties in childbirth. Passengers can support the cause by making on bus donations or through the justgiving page at www.justgiving.com/centrebuscyclethecircle
Small Ads Small ads are 25p for the first 16 words. 17-32 words: 50p. Enclosing payment, post your ad to us or hand it in (inside an envelope) at Birstall library. Trade/business rates for small ads are 25p a word. You are liable for the trade/business rate if you are offering a service for which you are asking for payment, or if you are advertising new goods for sale. All text will be printed bold. Box outline £1 extra. Max 50 words. Phone numbers count as one word.
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 GUITAR TUITION Most styles/levels. Local experienced teacher, beginners/children welcome, from £10 p.h. Tel: Chris Gibson 07946 073976
THE FIFTIETH annual Scotland v England gents golf match took place at Birstall Golf Club in September.
In a closely contested match with 72 players participating, England eventually secured a 10-8 victory. The match was followed by the traditional dinner celebrating the food of both countries including the piping in and addressing of the haggis. Club Captain Mike Atkins said: “Today was a truly special celebration of 50 years of keen but friendly rivalry. A wonderful day for Birstall Golf Club enjoyed by both our members and guests from other clubs.” Players and spectators were entertained from 12 noon until tee off at 1.30pm by the Corby Grampian Pipe Band. Started in 1965 the match came about after two Birstall members, Tom Hendry and Tony Bull, issued a challenge to each other to form a team from their respective countries to play annually for a Claymore which resides in the Club to this day. The first match saw 12 members
Pic: the Famous Five – 5 members who played in the original match and the 50th match – Norman Abell, Dennis Bull, Tom Hendry, Jim Seagriff and John Kennedy.
from each country play with England winning by a margin of 3 to 2 with one match halved. Currently England hold a 30-16 lead with three matches having been drawn. Four Birstall members, Tom Hendry, John Kennedy, Dennis Bull and Normal Abel, who played in the original match
Fun filled summer CHILDREN AT Half Pints childcare on Loughborough Road had a fun filled summer. “The children enjoyed dressing up in stage costumes at the Curve, feeling the texture of the moon at the Space Centre and learning all about ice, snow and snowflakes during our Frozen Day. I think they went back to school for a rest!” said a spokesman.
also played in this year’s match.
THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2014
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Ballet school place for Birstall boy A NINE year old boy from Birstall has secured a place at the prestigious Royal Ballet School in London. Felix Liggins (9) from Woodgate Drive is a student at the Starlight Theatre School. He successfully auditioned from over 900 applicants for the Royal Ballet School’s Junior Associates programme at their headquarters in Covent Garden. Felix started his training in September and will travel to London most weekends to attend classes. He has been a student at Starlight for the past two years and in addition to his ballet training he also studies tap, modern, jazz, acrobatics and stage. Star-
light principal Tracy Liggins said: “The associate programme nurtures young talented students alongside their regular dance school, in classical ballet training and associates sometimes have the opportunity to perform with the Royal Ballet company. This is a wonderful opportunity and I am very proud of Felix’s achievement and the hard work he has put in.” Starlight has just started its new term and currently has places for new students from the age of 2
Fundraising for animal shelter A BIRSTALL woman has started to raise funds for an animal shelter she visited on holiday. Shan Naidu (36), of Loughborough Road, was on holiday in Fiji with her family and was touched by the plight of the animals at Animals Fiji after the charity was told to vacate their premises in 90 days. Shan, pictured right, said: “Animals Fiji lost their home a couple of months ago when their premises were put up for sale by the landlords, and they were forced to find new quarters for their brood of over 80 resident animals within 90 days. The temporary premises housing their veterinary clinic and animal shelter currently comprises of old shipping containers and makeshift cages in an empty commercial yard, kindly given to them by a local company for a year. During the course of this year
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G E GAMBLE & SONS INDEPENDENT FAMILY FUNERAL DIRECTORS Pic: dancer Felix Liggins
—–––––––––– ESTABLISHED 1830 —–––––––––
upwards. For further information contact 0116 2355495 or visit www.starlighttheatreschool.com
Will writing A CUT price will writing offer organised by a Leicestershire charity ends soon. Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland have negotiated a price of £42 with 22 local solicitors. The offer runs until the end of October. Contact 0116 2992233
Planning P/14/1823/2: Tesco 139A Sibson Road – change to opening hours from 0600 to midnight P/14/1814/2: 45 Queensgate Drive single storey rear extension P/14/1786/2: J Michael Meat Purveyor Ltd, 7 Sibson Road – change to existing signage, internal changes to develop a takeaway restaurant
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Animals Fiji are actively fundraising to buy land and build their new shelter and clinic. While keeping the temporary shelter operational.” She added: “The animals come in all shapes and sizes, but the one thing they have in common is their need for companionship. Unfortunately, not all these animals can be rehomed in spite of the dedication of the caring staff at the shelter, but for those which are left behind, there is a way to ensure they have a permanent and secure home.” When Shan returned from holiday her husband offered to pay her a penny for every gram her two overweight cavalier spaniels lost in weight, and it gave her the idea to raise funds for the animal shelter. Visit www.animalsfiji.org
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OUR PICTURES were taken at two events this summer: Birstall Rainbow Nursery’s summer fete and Red Hill allotments open day. Pictured are (from top left): Isaac Corcoran (3) and his dad Dan; Sophie Robinson, Maisie Green & William Clements; two children on the bouncy castle. Red Hill allotments: Diane Wood of Birstall on her allotment
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14
THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2014
Tennis club’s finals IT WAS double success for winners of the men's and ladies' singles titles at a warm and sunny Birstall Watermead Tennis Club Finals Day. Ciaran Bibby beat Connor Winterton 6-1, 1-6, 6-2 in the men's final, to regain the title he won in 2012, while Rachel Chalmers defeated Marcia Merry 6-0, 6-0 in the ladies' event. Inspired by their singles success, Ciaran and Rachel then teamed up to clinch the mixed doubles final, beating Mary Whiteman and Connor 6-0, 6-2. In the ladies doubles, Wendy Morley and Val McCarthy beat Marcia Merry and Audrey Preston 3-6, 6-0, 6-3 in a thrilling, fluctuating match. Meanwhile, in the men's doubles, Mike Smith and Kieran Williams overcame Tony Lourenco and Kuljit Tara 6-3, 7-6.
In other finals, Kuljit Tara beat Ryan Burton 6-3, 6-2 in the Under 18s, Matt Steward beat Joe Collings 6-2, 6-1 in the
6-4, 4-6, 10-5 in an exciting match. Finlay Platts beat Barney Sutton 6-0, 6-0 in the Under 10s, and Ajay Burton-Pyatt beat Kyan Gohill 9-10, 10-1, 10-3 in the Under 8s. The Under 9s final may be played at a later date. In the men's plate, Matt Steward capped a great great day by gaining a hat-trick of wins, beating Tiran Mistry 6-2, 6-3. Pics (from left): Ciaran Bibby & Rachel Chalmers; Mike Smith (left) & Kieran Williams; Val McCarthey (left) & Wendy Morley
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Bowls club reflections Under 16s and Matt Steward also won the under 14s by defeating Joe Collings 4-6, 6-2, 10-8. In the Under 12s, Jake McCleary beat George Dearden
THE OUTDOOR bowls season is winding down and Roly Green from St Margaret’s Co-operative Bowls club has been reflecting on the year. He said: “Undoubtedly for me the high point was that my Monday afternoon triples team, the Saints, reached the final of the Loughborough and District Trophy, played September 1. This in itself is something special as the last time I played in a cup final was aged 10, playing junior school football. “The Saints play in lowly Division 4 and to reach the final we had to dispatch four other teams including a Division 1 side which we met in an extremely close semi-final. All this giant killing caused quite a stir in the club. There were gasps of disbelief followed by adulatory noises and rash promises like “I’ll come and see you in the final”. “On the day things had reached fever pitch as the massed ranks of Saints’ supporters packed into the Loughborough Granby ground. The crowd, almost too many to count, I stopped at 20, spontaneously burst into a rousing chorus of ‘When the Saints go Marching In’ as their team strode proudly onto the turf ably led by captain Tony Moulding. The opposition, the Shepshed Rams, could no way match this as they had only three supporters. They clearly felt that their team had no need of this kind of support, having recently been confirmed top of Division 1. “I won’t go into detail as there is enough gore around these days. In short we got slaughtered. True to form, the Shepshed Rams were the worthy winners. A great day was had by all and we are just very pleased to get as far as we did.” Pic: Stalwart JK delivers his bowl as captain Tony Moulding surveys his options
WI news BIRSTALL AND Wanlip WI hold their first meeting after the summer break. 28 ladies caught up on news whilst making greetings cards and consuming tea, coffee and homemade cakes. We were very thankful to Val and Judy who spent ages preparing everything we needed. It was a very pleasant way to spend an evening. The Skegness coach trip in August was voted a great success. The weather was kind and so the usual seaside pursuits were undertaken with gusto. The WI centenary Baton exchange takes place on October 8 and Leicestershire WI’s bunting will stretch for 300 metres from the Top Lock at Foxton. This is followed by a Baton walk around Bradgate Park on October 9 and finally a 17 mile walk around Rutland Water to hand over the baton to Huntingdon and Peterborough Federation on the 14th. Jan Berry and Jenny Downes were joint winners of the competition cup with their greetings cards. We meet again at Highcliffe School on October 6 when once again we welcome Sandra Moore who will talk to us about famous people in Belgrave Cemetery. The competition is ‘A Famous Person I’d Like To Meet’. From Birstall & Wanlip WI
THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2014
News from the churches “Season of mists and mellow fruitfulagain! Any donations will be given to church ness” funds. From Beryl McHugh, Birstall Parish Harvest is the first big event on the agenda. Churches At both St James, Birstall and Our Lady and St Nicholas, Wanlip, Harvest Sunday is celebratNew Faces at the Methodist Church ed on Oct 5, with an All Together 10am servOn October 5, we welcome a new face to ice at St James and Harvest Evensong at 6pm our pulpit. Kim Shorley is a local preacher at Wanlip. Any harvest gifts (which people living in Market Harborough. As part of her are invited to bring to these services) will be training towards full ministry in the Methodist donated to the Community of Grace in LeicesChurch Kim has been taken under our minister, which cares for the homeless and can ter’s wing for about 100 hours between now make good use of any sort of produce. and next Easter. Giving thanks Another new face, but only making a sinThanksgiving Sunday is celebrated at both gle visit is Rev Jill Marsh who will take the churches on Sunday October 19 at 10am and 6pm respectively, when we give thanks to God ‘World Church’ service on October 19. Jill was (until recently) Minister at the Methodist for all that the Church receives in the way of Church in central Leicester in Bishop Street time, talents and money from its members (whose premises are open for refreshments and friends. Another reason to be thankful is most days in the week). for the support St James received for the Some Birstall folk will remember Sam & annual Garden Fete, which had to take place Pete Taylor from Syston. They now have a inside the church because of the terrible Ministry in the Vale of Glamorgan Circuit, and weather, but still raised over £1500. are based at Barry (where one of their After the service there will be a Thanksgivchurches is just 5 years old!). They will both ing Bring and Share hot lunch in the Village Hall. Names for this can be added to the lists be coming back to Syston for one day and will lead the worship there on October 26 at in either church 10.30am & 6 pm. At this time of year, there is a different For families on Saturday at Birstall Methsort of thanksgiving at St James: a service on odist All Souls Day, Sunday November 2, at 3pm. You will have seen the messy blanket occaAnyone who has lost a friend or relative, sionally strung round the oak tree outside the either recently or in the past can give thanks for their lives and light a candle in their mem- church. It advertises ‘Messy Church’. Meeting twice a month (4th & 18th in October) it is ory. Everyone is welcome to this short servan opportunity for families to create things ice and is invited to stay for a cup of tea together, then celebrate with a short act of afterwards. worship and then chew over a simple meal; A night at the “flicks”! all within 2 hours, starting at 4pm. Messy Those who attended the film nights at St Church follows a theme each time they meet James last winter will be glad to know that and it is designed for all ages together. No the first film to be shown this season “Saving unaccompanied children please. It is free but Mr Banks” is on Friday October 17 at 7pm. donations are invited. As before, there is no charge for this enterHappy Video taining evening (some minor problems last This video of many happy Birstall folk has season with colour and sound have been now been watched almost 4000 times. It is sorted!) Refreshments will be available at the inter- still on ‘You tube’. Just search for ‘Big Birstall Yard Sale does Happy’. Thanks to Rachel and val and our ice-cream lady will be on duty
all who participated. Happy Pantomime Rehearsals have just started for the 2015 ‘Mens Pantomime’. If you can spare most Thursday evenings to join the cast or help behind the scenes then contact Richard on 2209462 From Birstall Methodist Church
Stanton Lees Report The Annual Bible School held over the August Bank Holiday weekend in this little village in Derbyshire (now in its fiftieth year) was well-attended in spite of the wet weather. Geoff Thomas (from Aberystwyth) led six sessions on the theme of ‘How Great is God’, covering God’s grace (undeserved favour), holiness, sovereignty and peace, while Roger Hitchings (from Swindon) gave a meditation on Matthew 15, verses 21-31. The historical lecture was changed owing to the illness of the original speaker, but Roger Fay (from Ripon) stepped in to give us an interesting account of ‘The Forgotten John Wesley (1703-1791)’. Recordings were made of these meetings and if you would like a CD, then please contact the chapel at: http://www.stantonleeschapel.org.uk/contactus directions.html Harvest Thanksgiving Service This will be held on October 12, starting at 10.45am, in the Community Room at Highcliffe School (LE4 3DL). Our visiting speaker
15
is to be Stan Braybrook from Shepshed. You will be most welcome to join with us on this occasion, when we will give God thanks for the food and blessings we have received, as well as remembering those who do not have enough to eat. We will be especially supporting those in Sri Lanka this year. Sunday services Our normal Sunday morning services will be held in the Community Room at Highcliffe through October, starting at the same time of 10.45am, except that we will not be able to use the room on the 26th owing to the halfterm break, so please contact us for the venue on that day. Further information please ring 0116 2214883. From Anne Taylor , Birstall Independent Baptist Church
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& crime report Intruders will often attempt entry to properties via the garden perimeters. The first deterrent is, of course, a locked side gate. This can be made even more secure if fitted with one or two strips of our fence spikes. There are some attractive plants which would keep burglars at bay. They’ll act as sentinels to your home as well as being pleasing to the eye. The following will deter any unwanted intruders:1. Berberis, a large family of evergreen and deciduous shrubs that has spectacular foliage and flowers....and sharp, thorny shoots! Varieties such as stenophylla, a fast growing evergreen, can reach seven feet in height. A burglar would take one look at this and go away, yet, in flower it is a mass of gold, bell-like blooms. 2. Berberis darwinii with holly-like leaves and bright orange, bell-like flowers is spectacular, but sharp and spiky. 3. A shrub rose is another stopper planted along a fence or wall. To cover the top of a fence, rambling roses work well. 4. Ideal for window protection is Pyracantha—a family of large thorny shrubs commonly known as firethorn. They are effective under windows as a burglar deterrent, but they also have spectacular evergreen leaves and fire-bright berries. Another advantage of these plants is that they provide safe nesting places for birds as they are not popular with cats. From Birstall & Wanlip NHW
Crime Report : Birstall & Wanlip Aug 2014 Assaults 7, burglary 9, burglary nondwelling 3, damage to motor vehicle 2, drugs 1, public order 1, theft 6, theft cycle 1, theft from motor vehicle 2, theft from store 2 REPORTED CRIME has remained at the same level as last month with 34 offences reported during the month of August, however unfortunately a
large number of these are burglary offences, with a total of 12 being reported in all (nine dwelling and three non-dwelling). This is both disappointing and frustrating, however it is not uncommon to see a small rise in these offences during the summer months due to the fact properties are often unoccupied whilst the occupants are away on holiday. In three cases, properties were entered via insecure doors or windows and a further two cases were ‘attempted’ breaks, where no actual entry was gained – please ensure that doors and windows are secured at all times when your property is unoccupied as this really is the most effective way of keeping your home safe. I am also pleased to report that earlier in the month two males were arrested in relation to one of these break–ins and they are currently on Police bail whilst enquiries continue. A further male was also arrested in relation to another break following some DNA being recovered from the scene - I will keep you updated in relation to these arrests in due course. The week commencing the 15th September is Alcohol Awareness Week and whilst this may have passed by the time you read this report it would seem a good time to remind you that a lot of Anti-Social Behaviour and assault cases that the Police deal with are alcohol related. As such, please remember to keep your alcohol consumption within sensible limits as drinking too much can have dire consequences, including a driving ban if you are caught drink driving, losing your job, being arrested if you commit an offence due to excessive alcohol consumption, not to mention the long term effect on your heath. We have a new PCSO on the beat and I am sure many of you have already seen her out and about. PCSO 6391 Fiona Lacey has been in company with PCSO Mark Butler for a few weeks, walking the beat and learning the ropes. Please stop and speak to her when you see her out and about if you have anything you wish to discuss. Lastly, can I remind residents to ensure that when dropping off and collecting their children from the local schools they park sensibly and courteously, as we have a lot of complaints about this and do not want anyone to be injured as a result of dangerous and inconsiderate parking. PC 1759 Dave Jaeckels, PCSO’s 6611 Mark Butler, 6048 Adam Loydall and 6391 Fiona Lacey. Leicestershire Police http://www.leics.police.uk • Tel: 101 or 0116 2677355
16
THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2014
Birstall BAG’s cancer corner Be BLOOD CANCER Aware September was Blood Cancer Awareness Month and 34,000 people in the UK are affected by blood cancer every year, yet according to the latest research two thirds of people in the East Midlands don't know what the symptoms are! Read on to find out more. This latest research is from blood cancer support charity, Leukaemia CARE. Blood cancers like leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma affect around 34,000 people in the UK each year, but a survey of 2,000 people across the UK has revealed that 67% of people living in the East Midlands are unable to recognise the symptoms. While it is easier to diagnose blood cancers if the symptoms appear in clusters such as persistent fatigue, night sweats, joint pain, bruising and recurrent infections, frequently in the earlier stages, only one or two of these symp-
toms may be present. In any case, they do need to be checked and explained by a GP in order to rule out a blood cancer. 90% of those surveyed said that such symptoms are often put down to conditions ranging from flu to the menopause to growing pains, with only 1 in 10 people actually recognising these symptoms as those of a blood cancer. Just over a quarter (27%) of adults in the region have heard of blood cancer, but feel they know nothing about it and admit readily that more needs to be done to educate people about what the disease is. More than a fifth (22%) have had some personal contact with the disease, either having had it themselves or through friends or relatives and of those aware of the disease, the majority (58%) understand that there are different types of blood cancer, although this still leaves 2 in 5 who don’t realise this. For more information about Leukae-
mia CARE, visit www.leukaemiacare.org.uk, like the charity on Facebook www.facebook.com/leukae miaCARE or follow on Twitter www.Twitter.com/leukaemi aCAREuk For further information University Hospitals of Leicester Cancer Information Centre on 0116 258 6189. For more information on the funds we have raised, projects we support and forthcoming events see www.birstallbags.co.uk If you would like to reserve tickets for the Ceri Dupree Christmas show at Birstall Social Club on either Friday December 19th or Saturday December 20th please contact Birstall BAG’s by email birstallbags@hotmail.com or text mobile 07734 212102 . Please note reservations require full payment of £10 per ticket (over 18’s only).
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