Birstall Post (383) June 2015

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

JUNE 2015

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 383

Tennis for Nepal

ALL SIX plots at the new Greengate Lane traveller site are now occupied, says Leicester City Council.

The Greengate Lane site and the Red Hill Way site both opened in April. Seven of the 10 plots at Red Hill Way are now occupied.

Some travellers have raised concerns about the CCTV cameras on the sites which the City Council say are there to protect the inhabitants from antisocial behaviour.

The two sites have spaces for static and touring caravans and cost £2million A City Council spokesman said: “The cameras have been installed following feedback from tenants at Meynell’s Gorse travellers’ site, which we are cur-

A BIRSTALL couple have organised a 24 hour tennis marathon to help raise funds for the DEC Nepal Earthquake appeal.

Mary George and Kevin Shepherd of Loughborough Road will start their challenge on Saturday June 13, 2pm, at Rothley Tennis Club.

“Nepal is a place we have longed to visit for a number of years “ said Kevin.

“This earthquake has caused so much devastation in Nepal it’s hard to quantify it, and it will take years to fix.

We hope our event will keep it in the forefront of people’s minds.”

The pair both played tennis in their youths but have only become regular players in the last four years, at Rothley.

They have been contacting the wider tennis community to encourage their participating in fundraising, and have received a supportive email from celebrity tennis play and writer Tony Hawks.

The couple will play as a doubles pair, taking on challengers for 30 minute sessions in return for a donation.

Continued on page 5

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Pic: Marathon tennis players Kevin Shepherd and Mary George

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THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

Tennis continued from page 1 “We have players aged from 7 to 77 who have booked sessions, and will be playing a Wimbledon wheelchair champion and players from clubs across the county” said Kevin.

The public are invited to attend the event to cheer on the couple, make a donation, and enjoy strawberries and Pimms and a barbeque on the Sunday.

A text number and a justgiving page have been set up to receive donations.

Text TENN77 then £1, £2, £3, £5 or £10 to 70070 www.justgiving/tenis4nepal #tennis4nepal For more information and to book a slot playing the couple, contact Mary 0772 5666 343 or Kevin 0797 280 8453 Traveller continued from page 1 rently refurbishing, after concerns about antisocial behaviour at that site.

“The cameras at all sites are focused only on the gates, access roads and CCTV equipment cabinets, not on private living spaces. This is in line with laws governing the operation of CCTV cameras.”

Pic: CCTV cameras at the Red Hill Way site

“13 of the 16 new plots are now occupied and the residents are settling in well.”

All the six families at the Birstall site are related and include three school aged children and some children under five. The families, headed by Mrs Walker, own some horses which are grazed on land rented from the City Council.

Planning applications were submitted for the two sites in August 2013 and planning permission was granted in December 2013.

The Council received 1500 responses in its consultation period, including a 2700 name petition from the LE4 Action Group.

Investment in Birstall schools TWO BIRSTALL schools have received significant grant funding that could see parts of each school demolished and rebuilt.

Highcliffe Primary and Longslade College are two of only four schools in the county to have received funding from the government’s Priority School Building programme which is designated for schools “in urgent need of repair”.

The Education Funding Agency (EFA) decides how the money should best be spent to secure good value and they also decide when any work will take place, which is expected to be sometime in the next five years.

The Lionheart Academy Trust contains all Birstall’s schools and it has preferred options for how the money should be spent.

“At Highcliffe we'll be asking the EFA whether it's possible to create a new building behind the existing main building and then demolish the Greengate Lane building to replace the play space that will have been lost” said Chair of the Lionheart Academy Trust Chris Swan.

She added: “If we could choose, we'd most like to use the funds at The Cedars to build a new hub for learning in the centre of the site and demolish block A at the top of the hill. This would make the whole site much more accessible and would focus the learning community around the new central hub.

“In both cases the EFA will need to decide whether a new build is best value, or whether they would prefer to refurbish the existing buildings. Either way we feel very fortunate to have been awarded the grants, as only four were given to schools in Leicestershire and

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She added: “Once the work has been agreed we'll make sure the community, and particularly parents, are informed and we'll do all we can to ensure that the children's learning isn't disrupted unnecessarily during the building programme.”

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THE BIRSTALL POST

JUN 2015

Railway museum secures funding A £9.5MILLION grant has moved proposals for a major heritage railway museum on the edge of Birstall a step closer. way stories, but will aim to engage people with their own history, so they are inspired to be heritage champions in future.”

The brand new attraction will sit alongside the GCR’s Leicester North station and tell the story of how the railways helped Leicester become a

PHOTO: RIK EBORALL

The partnership behind the project, the Great Central Railway, the National Railway Museum and Leicester City Council, have announced that the new attraction has received Heritage Lottery Funding of more than £9.5million.

Development funding of £494,500 has also been awarded to help the partnership fully develop the proposals for the project, called Main Line, and apply for a full grant at a later date. The total cost of the project is expected to be £15million.

“We are thrilled by the support from the Heritage Lottery Fund,” said Bill Ford, managing director of the Great Central Railway (GCR).

“Main Line will combine our awardwinning double track main line railway with a unique collection of priceless locomotives and objects, preserving them for future generations.

“The museum will not only tell rail-

Pic: the new museum

thriving industrial city.

Housing locomotives, carriages and other railway artefacts from the national collection, the attraction will be fully accessible by rail, thanks to the Great Central Railway reunification project.

With floor to ceiling glass windows, the building will offer visitors close up views of heritage trains arriving at the adjacent station, providing a dramatic context for the static exhibits and allowing visitors to experience the day-to-day workings of a heritage railway.

Welcoming what will be the most significant national museum collection on display in the East Midlands, City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “This news means that we’re a step closer to creating an exciting new visitor attraction that will preserve and showcase the city’s

rich railway heritage, while creating important new jobs.

“Main Line will house items which are of both national importance and local interest, complementing the nearby National Space Centre and Abbey Pumping Station and helping to enhance Leicester’s reputation as a visitor destination.

“We’re extremely proud to be part of this partnership and delighted by the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund,

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Mandy Manning from CWC said: “We put the interests of the customer first and we won’t compromise on our attention to detail or the quality of the materials we use.

“Everything is carefully project managed by us personally and we do everything we can to ensure the work we do enhances your home.”

Pic: blue area shows land required for the museum. Red area currently disused

which is another clear vote of confidence in the city.”

The exhibits at Main Line will be drawn from the prestigious national railway collection.

Paul Kirkman, director of the National Railway Museum said: "We're delighted that the plans for this exciting project are firmly on track.

“Leicester had one of the world's earliest railways and it was also a hub of the Midland line.

“The new museum will ensure that key parts of the national collection are accessible at the heart of the country for the first time, but just as important we hope to inspire a new generation to get involved in our nation’s railway story.

“This is a project with strong local connections but with benefits that will be felt nationally."

Some 300 short-term construction jobs will be created while the museum is built and the attraction will provide nine full-time posts when it opens.

Atul Patel, Trustee at the Heritage Lottery Fund, said: “The Great Central has had a lasting impact on industrial and cultural life in this area and this investment will continue the railway’s important role.

“Thanks to National Lottery players, a world class museum will now be created providing a new home to some of our most significant objects and archives Continued on page 5

THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

Volunteers aim to cut speeding

• Burglar Alarms • CCTV • Access Control • Fire Alarms

TRAINED VOLUNTEERS from Birstall and Wanlip NHW are tackling the problem of speeding in the village.

PLANS TO build nine houses on a field in Wanlip have resulted in objections from local residents.

Those objecting say the plans would: • reduce the area of separation between Birstall and Wanlip • damage the character of the village

Museum continued from page 4 which together tell the story of the British railways. Alongside nearby attractions, the new museum will help to establish the city as a major tourism destination, and attract wider audiences.”

Main Line is one of nine projects in England and Scotland that’s due to benefit from nearly £100m of National Lottery investment. All the awards will help boost the nation’s scientific, industrial and cultural heritage for future generations.

Culture Secretary John Whittingdale said: “National Lottery money continues to make an absolutely vital contribution to our culture and heritage in the UK. I'm thrilled that nine exciting projects across England and Scotland will benefit from this significant £98m investment.

"Whether it’s a new railway museum in Leicester, the Lovell Telescope at Cheshire’s Jodrell Bank or saving the UK’s most vulnerable sound recordings at the British Library, these grants will not only make a lasting difference to local areas and the UK’s wider heritage, but will also use culture to inspire young people to learn more about science and technology for generations to come.”

The Leicester partnership will be required to make a further bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund within the next two years to confirm the full grant award. It will also need to secure match funding to develop the project.

Subject to funding, Main Line could open to the public in 2019.

• represent building outside the village envelope • result in traffic problems as the local roads could not cope • result in the loss of high grade agricultural land Leicestershire County Council’s Highways Department is recommending that the plans be refused. It says:

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They are taking part in the County Council’s Community Speed Watch Scheme – volunteers use speed guns to measure vehicle speeds to help raise awareness of speeding in the area.

“We hear a lot of complaints about speeding and we are responding to those complaints. We hope to make motorists more aware of their speed” said Allan Kinton, Membership Secretary of Birstall & Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch.

Volunteers in Birstall will be operating the scheme between June 1-29 in roads identified by residents as having a speeding problem: Birstall Road, Curzon Avenue, Fielding Road, Greengate Lane, Roman Road, School Lane, Sibson Road and Wanlip Lane.

Signs will be erected by the Road Safety Unit and volunteers monitoring traffic will wear high visibility jackets. Offending vehicles will have their details sent to the County Council and will receive a warning letter from the Police.

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• the site is not sustainable • residents would be too reliant on the private car as alternative transport methods are not readily accessible.

• the existing access road [Church Lane] is not suitable for the additional traffic generated by the site.

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THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

Duck race delights crowd HUNDREDS OF people thronged the Whiles Lane riverbank to watch the White Horse annual duck race on one of the warmest days of the year so far.

A record breaking number of ducks were sold - 3338, more than double last year’s total which helped the event raise £4850 for the PTAs of Highcliffe and Riverside schools.

Adele Hickling, Deputy Head Teacher of Highcliffe Primary School, said, "Thank you so much for giving us the opportunity to share in such a fantastic community event. We are really grateful for the donation to school and will use the money to improve our ITC provision".

Carole Gutteridge, of Riverside PTA, said: “Riverside school would like to thank the staff at the White Horse - especially Charlotte and Jenny - for all their hard work, and allowing Riverside to host this year's joint venture with Highcliffe school. Riverside would like to thank the PTA members, parents and children from both schools, the staff from Riverside for the tombola donations, everyone who donated cakes and

Pic (top): (l-r) Reshma Kukadia Chair of Highcliffe PTA, Queen Elsa of Arandelle, Rachel Porch Vice Chair of Riverside PTA & Carole Gutteridge Chair of Riverside PTA

teddies, all those who came down on the day, and everyone who bought a duck! We would also like to thank the management and staff from the Co-Op who kept the duck-sellers warm with hot drinks.”

The White Horse would like to thank the following for prize donations: Windmill Stores Co-Op, Mad Mutts and Moggies, New world Florist, Lambourne café, Stonehurst Farm, Bargain Booze, Leicester City Football Club, Next, Leicester Ryders, Tesco Birstall, Lily & Grace, Posy Bowl, Be Beau, Chic Revive, MDW Fireplaces, Dan’s Barbers, Magnet, Ma’s Cottage, Outfit, GD Beauty, Jo Gosling Nails, Hobby Horse, Max Speilman, Gunns Gym, Aroma Spice, Ruby Tuesdays, Starlight theatre School, TJ Cycles, Dance Academy, Park View Riding school, Birstall Garden Centre, Birstall Jewellery, Head Rush, 360degree play, Soar Valley Leisure centre, Coles Nurs-

ery, Lisa Zumba, Leicester Outdoor Pursuits company, Birstall Fisheries, Debenhams, Leicester Tigers and Shapes Hairdressing.

A spokesman said “We would also like to give special thanks to Jack in the box, Paddle Plus, Beccy Porch, Knitting Guerrilla’s of Blighty (KGB), Charlie Richardson, Think Print and Kaines Castles for their invaluable contributions to our event.”

THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

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Exhibition of photos

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CURATING A photography exhibition at a Leicester gallery has been an inspiring experience for photographer and Longslade student Imaan Hakeem.

“Being in contact with and judging such inspirational photographers and amazing images was a great experience in itself” said Imaan (18) who is studying for A-levels at Longslade College.

Imaan entered a competition and won a grant to curate the exhibition, Mediators of Dissent, at the LCB Depot in Leicester. She worked with her photography mentor Kajal Patel to put together the exhibition of work

by Asian women photographers on the themes of dissent and rebellion.

As well as selecting the images, Imaan had to organise publicity, design posters and print and mount the images working within a limited budge.

She said: “Although I have had my own exhibition at the Curve theatre, I was never this up close and personal with all the elements of curating so it was interesting and insightful to know the important processes that happen behind the scenes of exhibitions.

“The highlight was probably meeting Poloumi Basu one of the selected photographers.

Listening to her stories and speaking with her was extremely inspiring.”

Imaan is a free-lance photographer who will be studying for a degree in Media, Communications and Photography at Birmingham City University from September.

“My aims are to establish my photography business and attain a full time job

Run for BAGs A FUNDRAISING run around Watermead Country Park will this year be in aid of Birstall BAGS. Wreake Valley Rotary Club’s Watermead Challenge 2015 Charity Run is sponsored by James Sellicks Estate Agents and Chartered Surveyors.

The run takes place at 7pm on Tuesday July 7 at Watermead Country Park. Full entry details can be found at www.wreakevalleyrotary.org.uk Race Director Chris Battye said: “This is the fifth year we have held the run. Last year we had 300 entrants of all standards. We hope for at least that number this year. The route is flat and mostly off road around the attractive lakes of Watermead Park. There are both 3 mile and 5 mile routes offering everyone the opportunity to set a personal best time.”

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Pic:(top) Imaan Hakeem (ctr) and (right) one of Imaan’s photos

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Pic: a photo from the exhibition Mediators of Dissent by San Htet

in the media while doing photography on the side” said Imaan.

“I also plan to stick to playing football, I am currently signed to Leicester City Women so I don’t know where that will take me. I would also like to teach others photography.”

Imaan is currently sitting her A-level

exams at Longslade. She said: “I have made some great friends and had a lot of memorable moments here. I have learnt a lot and as much as I can’t wait to leave college I know there will be many pupils and staff I will miss. I feel I have grown academically and as a person being at Longslade.”

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THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

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, Unit 109, Greenacres, The Sidings, Leicester LE4 3BR, or handed in at Birstall library or email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk

Meadow Lane I am writing in response to Mrs Gamble's letter in the May issue of the post regarding the parking issues on Meadow Lane and would like to make the following comments. First of all, on the day in question, Birstall United were not holding a tournament, but were hosting a county cup final on behalf of the Leicestershire and Rutland county FA. Our ground had been chosen in recognition of the hard work we have been putting in to upgrade our facilities. The FA were responsible for spectators and in hindsight, although we opened the gate for access to the side of the pitch, we should have instructed the stewards to make better use of this parking space, and for that we apologise. As Mrs Gamble points out however, the use of Meadow Lane is not solely Birstall United's.

The Junior football club (which is totally separate to the senior section) had a match that day, and the residents going down to the lakes were also plentiful on what was a pleasant morning, as were the allotment holders, making parking

more of an issue than normal.

Over the last year or so, people walking past our football club cannot have helped but notice what an improvement we have made to the appearance of our facility and indeed we have had numerous compliments from passers by. With regards to us having access to the side gate that used to lead to the allotments, this is not just for parking, but it has given us the opportunity to totally enclose our ground, reducing the risk of fly tipping and vandalism to our clubhouse and surrounding area. The Birstall parish council have been unbelievably supportive in allowing us this access, by building the new road down to the allotments and we are extremely grateful to Sue Coulson and the team. Going forward I can assure Mrs Gamble that on match days, we will have both entrances to our ground open and football traffic will be managed appropriately, but it is an issue that with the lane having more usage, on certain days parking will be tight. An example is the junior football clubs annual tournament, which is always a tremendous success and attracts people from all over the county and city. Parking is always tight, but surely we should be celebrating the fact that people citywide recognise these events in our village as a success rather than a problem?

Gary Fox, Chairman, Birstall United Football Club.

Outstanding A few words about three outstanding people in our Birstall village. These three people have done so much for the community they deserve recognition.

First of all what they have achieved over the years is incredible. Jim Garner, the work he has done and the money spent on my Boxing Gym has been fantastic. Well done Jim! Secondly a local man by the name of Jeff Bullock, what a generous fella he’s turned out to be, supporting my Gym financially and giving

his backing to us at Gunns Community Gym. Super man! And last but not least Paula Clifford. This girl has done so much for charity here in Birstall, what a wonderful person she is, working so hard to help others, well done Paula, you are a diamond.

We should all be very grateful to ‘three marvellous people’, here in Birstall.

Carl Gunns

Bats Since you published my last letter there has been some progress. To start with the warden of Watermead had been conducting a survey of the bats in the park himself – unfortunately his staff has been cut and for the last few years he has not been able to follow this work up. During his survey three species of pipistrelle, noctule, brown log-eared, Natterer’s, whiskered and Daubenton’s bat were identified; he was probably using electronic equipment to monitor their calls in most cases, a level beyond my scope and I would think most of your readers as well. He makes the point that bats will move from one lake to another on different nights, depending on where the insects are emerging.

I have had three calls to date – two relating to bats near the White Horse, and one to bats over Greengate Lane.

Please keep the calls coming – my number is 0116 267 6946 and there is an ansaphone should I be out.

Dr D McNeil

PS I do not expect people to identify the species, but if the bat is big or small it would be helpful.

Thanks A big thank you to all the people who helped me when I fell off my bike outside Boots the Chemist on Monday, April 27 - David and his wife, the off duty paramedic and the staff at Boots. Grateful thanks to you all.

Joan Merrick

Noticeboard all details printed free Birstall Walk in the Village Join John Kilby on Tuesday June 2 at the School Lane Car Park at 7pm for a walk round the older part of Birstall A charge of £2.50 will be donated to the Birstall Methodist Church for its ‘Walk in the Light’ project Please phone John on 2673239 to agree a visit There may be a limit of 25 Friends of Belgrave Cemetery

Summer Fair Sunday June 14 From 10am to 3.30pm Guided Walk by Sandra Moore at 11am & 2pm dressed in Victorian Costume Record Information Stall, Belgrave Cemetery Cake stall, refreshments, tombola stall If you want to donate items for the cake stall or tombola or want to help on the day please contact: Joy May 0116 3678068 www.friendsofbelgravecemetery.org. uk Tickets are now available for Soar Valley Music Centre’s annual musical theatre production

‘Anything Could Happen’ The show contains a wonderful set of songs and dance routines from musicals, old and new, such as Shrek, Mary Poppins, Oliver! and The Wizard of Oz so there will be something for everyone.

Guthlaxton College, Station Road, Wigston Friday & Saturday, July 3/4 at 7.30pm Tickets available from Soar Valley Music Centre 0116 266 4153

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THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

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THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

The Staff team, Councillors and volunteers organised three popular and very well attended events during the year, namely, the Birstall Gala, the Christmas Lights Switch On & Market, the Civic Service & Lunch in October, which is held to thank people who contribute their time to provide services for the community.

Achievements during the year have been: The installation of 2 defibrillators in the village, one on School Lane playing fields car park and one at the Methodist Church on Wanlip Lane. Free training sessions were provided for the residents.

Commenced work to progress the building of the Community Hall on Hallam Fields Extended the fencing on the School Lane playing fields Renewed the tarmac on the car park area outside the Village Hall Introduced & adopted a Grant Aid Policy to allow Birstall groups/ organisations to apply for funding that has been set aside in the Councils budget. During this financial year Grant Aid was approved for three Birstall groups amounting to ÂŁ725 Provided red filters to light up the Church & Council offices to Commemorate the Centenary of WW1 Birstall Parish Council has continued to provide financial support to: The Youth CafĂŠ, which goes from strength to strength The Birstall & Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch, which contributes to the prevention of crime in our community Age UK Ltd, to fund the Bath Nurse service for vulnerable elderly residents Our Local Beat Team, by providing a room for their exclusive use in the Sibson Road building.

The Parish Council already has some projects in mind which it is looking to complete in 2015/16, these are: Continue to progress the building of Hallam Fields Community Hall Install a 3rd defibrillator on the Greengate Lane side of the A6 Install a World War Commemorative Clock on the front of the Council Offices Employ a person to enforce the Byelaws regarding dogs on the playing fields Re-furbish the room at the Sibson Road building used by the Local Beat Team.

Look into providing outdoor gym equipment on the playing fields Replace a window in the Day Centre Look into replacing the Estates team vehicle and any necessary machinery

Councillor Ann Marshall Chair of Birstall Parish Council

THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

Report from the Estates Team Manager—2014/2015 Birstall Parish Council’s Estates Team have enjoyed another successful year maintaining and improving the Council’s sports facilities and amenity areas for the people of Birstall.

SPORTS PITCHES:

BOWLS: In the second season of maintaining the newly laid bowling green we suffered an extremely persistent attack of fungal disease on the green which affected the quality of the playing surface. With the implementation of a new maintenance regime tailored specifically to prevent further attacks coupled with a change in irrigation protocol we are hopeful that the coming season will see a significant improvement to the green.

CRICKET: Both cricket pitches were maintained to the usual standard last year and both clubs enjoyed decent seasons in the newly formed Leicestershire & Rutland Cricket League. Good weather throughout the summer meant that very few fixtures were rained off.

FOOTBALL: All four football pitches on School Lane Playing Fields played well throughout the whole season and a dry second half of the winter meant that we were able to complete the whole season without having to call off any fixtures at all.

ALLOTMENTS: A lot of work was carried out at the Meadow Lane Allotment site this year. Large overhanging willow trees were removed from the northern boundary and trees around the perimeter were cut back to allow more light into the site. This allowed us to replace large sections of the boundary fence and also to renovate two plots that were previously deemed unworkable. All nine taps at this site were also replaced with new mounting posts installed.

11

12

THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

CEMETERY: The continuing popularity of ‘The Haven’ section of the Cemetery which allows ash casket interments and the increasing demand for these plots has meant that we have created an extra 38 plots this year with many more planned for the coming year. We also made new signs for The Haven and The Glade from the trunk of a Sycamore tree that had to be felled:

We also undertook a comprehensive programme of tree pruning throughout all sites which has further benefitted areas such as the Woodland Walk which had an excellent display of Snowdrops:

PLAYING FIELDS We have started a programme of refurbishing the steel benches on School Lane Playing Fields. A number of these benches have corrosion of the support legs which have to be removed and new legs welded on.

New trees were planted at School Lane and at Harrowgate Drive. We also took over the maintenance of the first Play Area at Hallam Fields.

Andy Garland Estates Team Manager

THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

£10 adults, £8.50 accompanied children under 14 Mountsorrel Methodist Church presents the last in the 14th series of Sunday Night @ Eight

Organ Recitals on Sunday June 21 at 8pm Ron Berry, Organist, St Lukes, Thurnby Admission free Donations for church’s development fund Buffet from 7.30pm

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

Open Church Weekend at St Leonards Church, Swithland June 13/14 Tea and cakes will be served each day from 2-4pm

Birstall & District Art Society Tuesday June 9 at 7pm You are invited to join us at the Palmer Tomkinson Centre at Longslade College, LE4 4GH to watch renowned artist Peter Millward demonstrating Chinese Brush techniques using ink.

Please join us for this fascinating demonstration, which will end at approximately 9pm. Members £1, Guests £3. Free raffle. Ample parking and wheelchair access.

Bowls Open Day St Margaret’s Co-operative Bowls Club Birstall Road Sunday June 7, afternoon We are inviting anyone who is interested to come down to our clubhouse on Birstall Road. Experience is not necessary as help will be on hand. We hope to give people a flavour of the game and the great social life that goes with it. There will be no charge and visitors will not be under any obligation. Please ring John or Carolyn on 2675947 for further details.

Facebook: Leicestershire Road Club

GCR War Weekend Sat June 6, Sun June 7 10-4pm Greenacres café and Leicester North Station American re-enactors with displays & jeeps Vintage Stalls Classic Cars Face painting, candy floss, balloon modelling Adm £2, children free Birstall BAG’s Registered Charity Number 1160190 This year’s

Watermead Challenge on Tuesday July 7 at 7pm, The Rotary Club of Wreake Valley annual 5 or 3 mile run around our glorious local park, will be held in aid of Birstall BAG’s.

Birstall BAG’s would like to encourage as many of our supporters as possible to enter the event – wear pink to show you support!

For more information and to register please visit: www.wreakevalleyrotary.org.uk Rothley Bowling Club (Mountsorrel Lane) extends a very warm welcome to everyone to join us at our

Open Day Sunday 12th July, 12noon to 4pm Everyone welcome (old, young, male, female, novices or experienced) All equipment provided - just wear flat soled shoes Come and "have a go" and see what bowling is all about at a very friendly club.

Light refreshments will be served during the day Chummy Evenings are also held every Wednesday from 4.30 pm onwards for anyone interested.

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Picnic in the Park

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Queen’s Park, Loughborough Sat June 13, from 12noon Arts & Crafts Music from Sky-aManga, Maria Veretenina, Boys Brigade Marching Band, Morris Dancing, Street Dance, Circus Skills, Street Magic Organised by Charnwood Arts

Final accounts • Self assessment Taxation • Bookkeeping • VAT Payroll • Management accounts

Leicestershire Road Cycle Club Join us for one of two club rides each week Wed: 6.30pm, meeting Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre, Red Hill, 30 miles with average speed of 16/17mph Sat: 9.15am, Rothley Co-op car park.

Fast Group: 40/50 miles at average speed 18/20 mph. Slow Group: 30 miles at 15mph. We meet up halfway round for a coffee stop which enables people to swap groups for either a fast return ride or an easier one home.

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Companies & individuals call now on

0116 23 66 345 A friendly service tailored to your needs

Further details may be obtained from Club Captains Carole Ballantine 0116 2302629 Geoff Porter 0116 21032102303856 Or Club Secretary Mrs Carole Law 0116 2990178 e-mail thelaws@ntlworld.com Sunday 14th June 2015 10am-3.30pm

Belgrave Cemetery Open Day Guided Walk By Sandra Moore Dressed In Victorian Costume At 11am & 2pm Cemetery Record Information Refreshments Publications Available ‘Living Memories’ Belgrave Friends Remembered price £10 WWI Service Men Belgrave Cemetery.

Price £15. www.friendsofbelgravecemetery.org. uk

St James Church Social Group Camden Market/Camden Locks Saturday June 20 Camden Market and locks is a fascinating area of London and well worth a visit.

There is lots to do and see there (or you can hop on a bus into central London).

The cost for the day is £20 and the coach will leave from Birstall.

To book a place or for further details please phone Cicely 212 9508 or Sandra 267 7238

Birstall Flower Club June 24th 2015, 7.15pm Birstall Village Hall Demonstration by Sally Gee “Celebrations " Visitors welcome - £5

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Queries to Sylvia: 0116 2674206 or Mary Linnett: 0116 2672247

Birstall Royal British Legion 6th Derren Bolton M/V 13th Nightshift M/Duo 20th Tara Vex F/V 27th 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 14th and 28th June starting at 9pm Acoustic night Sunday 21st June at 8pm Food available every Saturday 12-2pm Wakes catered for Wi-Fi available BT Sports New outside seating area Thurmaston Showstoppers present their Summer Show

We’ll Meet Again Our new show is a celebration of the end of hostilities in the Second World War. We have tried to capture the spirit and emotion of the time with well chosen songs, an injection of humour and even sadness. However we will be sending our audience home with a song in their heart and a smile on their lips. Tickets are £5.00 and “We’ll Meet Again” takes to the stage at Thurmaston Community Centre on June 19th and 20th at 7.30.

Tickets are available on 0116 3192117 or from Thurmaston Print Shop.

Film Presentations From Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council "The Theory of Everything" (Fri June 12, 123 mins) This is the extraordinary true story of Jane and Stephen Hawking, starring

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

14

THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

Felicity Jones who won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress and Eddie Redmayne who won the Golden Globe and Oscar for Best Actor. Defying the death sentence of motor neurone disease, Stephen Hawking married Jane, raised a family and altered drastically our perception of the universe by searching for a single equation to explain everything. Our June film is based on the memoirs of Jane Wilde Hawking.

Enjoy your summer! Our next film will be shown on Friday September 11th.

Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall. Starting at 7.30pm, tickets cost £5 and concessions are £4.50. There will be refreshments and a lucky prize draw.

Advanced tickets can be purchased via the parish office 0116 236 7626 or at the door.

Highcliffe Summer Fair Saturday 20th June, 1-4pm Fun & Games Bouncy Castles Bake Off Competition Food & Drink • Entertainment Entrance 50p, Primary School Children Free For craft fayre enquiries, please email highcliffepta@outlook.com or visit facebook.com/highcliffepta

Singing for Fun plus flautist Chris Hill (BBC Young Musician of the Year Category Finalist) and local young singers, ‘Raise The Roof’ for Dogs for the Disabled and Vista at De Montfort Hall Sunday 14 June 2.30 and 7.30 A feel-good programme of much-loved songs. You'll see many familiar Birstall faces in the choir! Tickets from DMH 0116 233 3111

Age Concern Birstall & Wanlip 200 club winners April 1st Nicky Willis, 2nd Mary Allen, 3rd Richard Green, 4th Mr and Mrs Thomas.

May 1st Tracey Halford, 2nd Gemma Todd, 3rd Tony Luxton, 4th Margaret Willows Soar Valley Music Centre

Summer Music Activity Weeks Are you looking for something to keep your children occupied over the summer holidays? Soar Valley Music Centre, based in Claremont Street, in Belgrave are running two summer activity weeks.

Music is fun!

Monday 13th - Friday 17th July 9am 3pm. For ages 6 - 12 years.

Come along and find out about traditional orchestral instruments, learn to compose your own music, play a new instrument, make your own orchestra and promote and organise your own concert for family and friends. This week introduces children to a range of musical experiences, helping them to understand how instruments work, how music is developed and how to work together to make a pleasing sound and a good performance.

School of Church Music.

For further information contact the Rector, Revd. Vince Jupp.

Tel: 07840-855030 E-mail vincejupp@btinternet.com Website: www.birstall.org

Techno, Rock & Pop

Saturday 13 June 2.15pm Band Display, Bouncy Castle, Teas, Cakes, Stalls, Games, Barbeque.

Admission 20p

Monday 3rd August - Friday 7th August 9am - 3pm. For ages 9 - 16 years.

For those who want to explore the rock and pop world and want to know how modern music is made. Come along and learn how to make electronic music, make your own beats and then record yourself and your friends and produce a CD. You can learn to play a band instrument, form and promote a band and set up a gig for family and friends. You will also learn about how modern music is written and performed, learn about copyright, plagiarism and how the music industry works. It is a good course for young people interested in developing their musical abilities and for those you would like to perform or work in the music industry.

The weeks cost £45 per week per child (£40 per week per child for 3 or more siblings). A packed lunch will be needed Places are limited so please contact SVMC on 0116 266 4153 or email office@musicentre.co.uk to book a place or to find out more.

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 07837 646544

Required from Sunday 14th June 2015.

Birstall and Wanlip churches are looking for an organist/choirmaster to work in both churches; attendances: 100 at 10am, 20 at 6pm.

The successful candidate is someone willing to play weekly at Sunday services and prepare the choir at weekly practices; encouraging/developing new members. The appointed person would also play for weddings, funerals and seasonal services throughout the Church year.

Remuneration will be by negotiation but in accordance with the terms and conditions laid down by the Royal

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Birstall & District Local History Society The next meeting is to be held on Thursday 11th June 2015 at 7.30pm in the Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall LE4 4DH. The subject of the talk will be "Enclosure & The Village Labourer" and the speaker will be Mike Rawle.

All visitors are very welcome to join us.

Parking will be available for cars on the Birstall Playing Fields through the School Lane entrance.

•

Bipolar Coffee Morning for Bipolar UK, the national charity supporting individuals and families affected by bipolar, sometimes known as manic depression.

Saturday 27th of June from 10am to midday at Methodist Church Hall, Wanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4JS. Tea and coffee will be served alongside a number of stalls which will include cakes, plants, nearly new goods and a tombola.

Leicester Host Lions Club

Summer Fete

Organist and Choirmaster

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By kind permission of Mr & Mrs Waters At The Close, School Lane, Birstall LE4 4EA

Sunday 2 August 2015 11.00am - 2.30pm at 34 The Ridgeway Rothley Leics Variety of Stalls, BBQ, Refreshments Music by Hiss & Boo Band until 1.30pm Admission £2.00 Children £1.00

Big Birstall Yard Sale Saturday July 4 10am to 4pm Do you fancy having a car boot sale stall but from the comfort of your own driveway?

On Sat July 4 members of the public will follow a map around Birstall to

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THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

find stalls and hunt for bargains and unwanted clutter.

Last year’s event was a huge success and also raised over £2000 via a charity raffle.

If you fancy having a clear-out while generating some spare cash at the same time, you can register your address so buyers can find you on the map. There is no cost involved.

Facebook www.facebook.com/BigBirstallYardSa le Tel or text Fiona on 07547 293545 www.bigbirstallyardsale.co.uk Twitter: @bbirstallydsale If desired, you can make a donation towards advertising costs here: www.gofundme.com/BigBirstallYardSa le

Birstall Village Gala Sat/Sun June 27/28 at the School Lane playing field The gala begins on Saturday at noon with performances by two dance academies, and local bands will be performing on stage from 1.30pm.

On Sunday, the gala begins with an outdoor church service at 11am and music will be performed between noon and 5pm.

The proms in the park in concert begins at 7pm and concludes with a firework finale at 9.45pm.

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Red Hill Parish Council notes litter TRAVELLERS WHO left Redhill island in May left behind litter including bags of rubbish and metal.

It was the second occupation of the traffic island by travellers this year.

They also left behind a caravan and firefighters were called when this was set alight on Friday May 15 at 8.30pm.

A spokesman for Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service said the fire had been started deliberately. No one was injured in the incident.

Wanlip May fair THIS YEAR'S Wanlip May Fayre was well attended and exceeded expectations for the number of customers and money raised - the target was £500 and £650 was raised.

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It was a joint venture between Birstall St James & Wanlip St Nicholas and Wanlip Parish village residents and the stallholders were drawn from both communities.

Pauline Harrison said: “For some years now we have been focussing on raising funds to renovate the kitchen in the Hall at Wanlip. This is much more than a simple re-fit. The kitchen is located in the stable area of what was the coach house [built in the 1850s] for Wanlip Hall [demolished in 1938/9].

“The first task is to bring the room itself up to current building standards

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15

for insulation and hygiene then the fun begins, fitting out a kitchen which we hope will meet community needs for many, many years to come.”

With the addition of a small grant from Charnwood Borough Council, it is hoped that work will commence on the kitchen in July this year.

BIRSTALL PARISH Council’s annual parish meeting was held on Monday May 18.

Parish Council Chairman Ann Marshall reported on the council’s activities over the previous 12 months.

She said the council had installed two defibrillators in the village and organised training sessions, and was working on progressing the construction of a community hall at Hallam Fields.

A new grant aid policy has seen £725 donated to local groups.

Tony Donovan, chairman of Age UK Leicestershire and Rutland, reported that a donation from the Edith Murphy foundation had paid for a new bath and a refurbished bathroom at the St James Day Centre in the Village Hall. This enables frail elderly people to bathe with assistance from a bath nurse. He said the Day Centre provides valuable support for elderly people that enables them to live for longer in their own homes.

Police Sgt Rob Smart reported that Birstall’s NHW was comprehensive and very effective at reducing crime and supporting the local police team. He said the current police priorities in the village were antisocial behaviour on Wanlip Lane and Sibson Road and speeding on Wanlip Lane and Birstall Road. He said the police were working with schools and partners at the Borough Council on reducing ASB. Four young people had signed acceptable behaviour contracts. Reports of ASB are decreasing.

Sgt Smart said 1600 vehicles had been speed checked since February. 47 drivers received a verbal warning and six were summonsed for exceeding 40 mph in a 30mph zone.

Sgt Smart reported that a re-organisation of working methods introduced to cut costs had seen local police officers given more time to spend in their local areas addressing community issues rather than investigating specific crimes. These are now handled by a dedicated unit.

Borough Councillor David Gaskell

reported that the Local Plan was going through. He said that when he first saw proposals for 1500 homes at north Birstall he was totally opposed to them but after looking at the plans he thought it was a good scheme. “I think it will be a cracking development” he said, and not like Hallam Fields.

County Councillor Iain Bentley said that he was continuing to press for the creation of a primary school and recreational facility at Hallam Fields, and that he was hopeful an announcement would be made shortly. He said people were asking for the school to be built on the estate, having been sold the houses on the basis of a school being provided there.

Youth Workers from the Parish Council funded youth café were joined by two young people who spoke about what they enjoyed doing at the Wednesday and Friday sessions: arts, crafts, trips, hair and beauty and playing table tennis with PCSO Mark Butler. Funding from 2014 duck race had paid for the installation of a cooker.

A member of the public reported that some paths on the School Lane playing field were very slippery in icy weather and requested warning signs be erected.

She also reported that football players on the park were urinating against fences.

The May meeting of the council followed the annual meeting.

Cllr Ann Marshall was elected as chairman for the ensuing year and Cllr Robert Dickinson vice chairman.

PC Dave Jaeckels reported that there had been a slight increase in recorded crime last month, but that there were no burglaries in April. He said that young people were repeatedly climbing onto the roofs of the Co-op supermarket and Riverside primary school. They had been spoken to, he said.

It was agreed to donate £100 to the Birstall Bit Yard sale. Organisers had requested support to pay for the printing of raffle tickets.

16

THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

NHW news

& crime report NOW IS the time of year that some of you are planning to go on holiday and hopefully the weather will be nice for those staying at home.

Simple precautions can help to prevent heartache whilst you are away or enjoying time in your garden. Please try not to make it obvious that you are on holiday, one thing that many people do is to shut their curtains or blinds. This can make it obvious to an opportunist criminal that nobody is home; should they break in, it also shields them from view.

If you have somebody that you trust, ask them to open and close your curtains for you.

You could also invest in a timer switch for a lamp, these are cheap to buy. Leaving your bin out a week early is also a giveaway that you are not at home, it is worth asking a neighbour or friend to put it out for you.

There are also simple things that you can do to make it look like someone is home, leaving a few pots next to your sink or leaving an open magazine on a chair are just two examples (so that it looks like you have just

put it down). A good idea is to ask a friend or neighbour to check your post. A pile of post on view or hanging out of your letterbox is a giveaway that you aren't at home. If you are spending more time in your garden, please make sure that your front door is locked and open windows are shut. There have been cases of homes being burgled whilst the homeowners are in the garden! If you have been gardening or doing DIY please put your tools away securely at the end of the day, it is worth investing in a good lock or padlock alarm.

There was a recent incident of a shed being broken into and the tools were then used to break into a neighbour's property. It is worth remembering to behave on holiday as you would at home. Your guard may be down due to the relaxed atmosphere and it is all to easy to fall for scams and opportunist thieves. Keep your valuables safe and always have a photo copy of your passport should the worse happen. Above all, enjoy your holiday and keep yourselves and your property safe!

The next advice shop is on June 20 at Highcliffe school summer fair, from 1pm until 4pm at the old council office, opposite the garden centre. Pop along for free cycle coding and a free tea or coffee. Committee members will also be at the Gala on Sunday June 28 with our usual free items and security products for sale (all at cost price) From Birstall & Wanlip NHW

RECORDED CRIME fell slightly in April with 39 crimes being reported compared to 43 in March, however theft from motor vehi-

cles continues to be a problem with another 10 broken into during the month.

Again, it appears to be vans and commercial vehicles that are being targeted, mainly to steal power tools etc. If possible please take extra security measures to secure your vehicle such as fitting additional locks, installing a ‘security-box’ inside to store your tools in, or if possible removing them altogether.

Since the start of the year there have been almost 2500 vehicles broken into in Leicestershire as a whole and so it is clear that this is a problem across the whole County as opposed to just Birstall and Wanlip.

On a local level we are continuing with our overnight patrols (as this is when the majority of the crimes are occurring) and have also been out delivering Vehicle Crime Leaflets in the areas that have been affected to give residents some practical advice about vehicle security.

I am pleased to report that we have not had any house burglaries this month, which is obviously very good news. As the warmer weather starts to arrive and doors and windows are opened to let the fresh air in, please remember to secure these when you go out again as burglars will be looking for these in order to gain entry to houses quickly and easily. Let’s make it as difficult as we can for them.

Unfortunately we have not been able to get out and do any more speed checks during April however our plan is to continue these as and when we can. Now that it is staying lighter for longer the plan is to also get the Community Speed-watch initiative up and running, which will use local residents to conduct speed checks. They will then forward details of any vehicles caught speeding to the Police so that they can be dealt with accordingly.

We continue to target Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) in the village and by working closely with a number of other agencies such as the local schools, the Youth Offending Service and the Parish / Borough Councils we are successfully dealing with those who have been causing problems in the village. As a result we have seen a decline in the number of calls reporting ASB, which we hope will continue.

Thanks for reading and as always please remain vigilant and report any crimes or suspicious activity to the Police on 101. You can also contact your local NHW co-ordinator for advice on non-crime matters.

PC 1759 Dave Jaeckels, PCSO’s 6611

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Cadets looking for recruits LEICESTER SEA Cadets are looking for new recruits.

A spokesman said: “From the age of ten both boys and girls can join to have fun and gain skills and qualifications, on the water and off. Rowing, canoeing, kayaking and powerboating are just some of our water based activities.

“On land first aid, cook steward, navigation and seamanship to name but a few. Courses and camps are a favourite to, with the chance to further your skills at sea.”

The cadets parade on a Tuesday and Thursday evening from 7pm until 9pm at their base on Ross Walk, Belgrave.

They are also looking for adult volunteers to join them.

Contact them on 0116 2662865 or 07456644953. Facebook page SCCT.S.TIGER.

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Crime Report : April 2015 Assaults 5, burglary non-dwelling 2, damage 6, damage to motor vehicle 3, drugs 2, robbery 1, theft 5, theft cycle 2, theft from motor vehicle 10, theft store 3

England place BIRSTALL LADIES Bowling Club’s Pa Walker is part of the England ladies squad for the British Isles International Series, which take place in Leamington Spa later this month.

Pa, who made her England debut in last year’s series, has been named as a travelling reserve and will play if there are any changes made to the original team during the series, which involves games against Scotland, Jersey, Wales and Ireland.

Pic: Pa Walker

As part of club member John Jenkins’ year as Leicestershire men’s President, Birstall will be hosting a men’s county match between Leicestershire and Oxfordshire on Wednesday 3rd June.

Spectators are welcome with the game starting at 2pm.

New members are always welcome, and for more information about the club, ladies can call Diane on 0116 2675457 and men can contact Andy on 0116 2677969.

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THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

Shapes’ salon secrets A BIRSTALL hairstylist and salon owner spent time in London recently with celebrity hairdresser Tracey Cunningham.

Pic: Tracey Cunningham with Clare Halford (right)

Clare Halford from Shapes Hairdressing was learning about colour formulas and techniques that Tracey uses on her clientele, including Cameron Diaz, Gwyneth Paltrow, Drew Barrymore and the Kardashians.

Clare said: “So if you want the actual colours and techniques including Babylights, Ombre, Lowlights, Sombre & Highlights that you see some of your favourite celebs wearing today, our team of stylists can recreate these looks for you.

“We are a Redken certified Colour Salon. Book in for a free colour consultation at either of our hair salons by calling 0800 756 5606”

17

May election results Sports facilities ELECTION DAY in May was a successful one for the Conservative party in Charnwood.

Birstall’s new MP, Edward Argar (pictured), won the Charnwood constituency with 28,384, a majority of 16,931. He increased the Conservative share of the vote from 49% in 2010 to 54% in 2015.

The defeated candidates were: Kelly Walsh, Sean (Lab) 11,453 Yates, Lynton (UKIP) 8330 Sansome, Simon (Lib Dem) 3605 Duffy, Cathy (BNP) 489 Turnout: 68% Conservative candidates were also successful in the Charnwood Borough Council elections. There are two members returned for each ward. The results were: Birstall Wanlip (turnout 72%) Cowles, Marilyn (Lab) 987 Howe, Julian (Lib Dem) 851 Jones, Renata (Con) 1459 (elected) McNeil, Duncan (Lab) 873 Sansome, Simon (Lib Dem) 1289 Shergill, Serina (Con) 1308 (elected) Birstall Watermead (turnout 67%) Bentley, Iain (Con) 2023 (elected) Burge, Dave (Lab) 1082 Gaskell, David (Con) 2014 (elected) Gogia, Sanjay (Lab) 991 Speaking on behalf of the Conservative candidates, Cllr David Gaskell said: “We would like to thank all those people who voted for us at the recent Borough election.

It was quite humbling to receive such a massive show of support for what we have achieved over the past four years and for what we have promised to try to achieve in the next four.

“Of all the things which happened during the course of the election, two things stand out. Firstly, the lady who arrived at the polling booth with our names and the name of our prospective parliamentary candidate, cut out from our election literature, saying that she had read all the literature and these were the people she was going to vote for.

To us this justified all the hard work which had gone into producing and delivering our leaflets.

“Secondly the old man who came up to us and told us that although he was voting Labour in the general election, because he always had, he was voting for us at the Borough elections because we had done so much over the past four years for him and his friends. These sentiments were echoed time and again during the course of the campaign and were subsequently obviously reflected on the ballot papers.

“This is the start of a new term of office.

As we said on our manifesto we will be working to ensure that the views of Birstall are always heard at Charnwood but to do this we are reliant on you keeping us informed. Come to our surgery held at 10am on the last Saturday in the month in the old council offices, Sibson Road Birstall or by letter to 768 Melton Road, Thurmaston LE4 8BD or by phone at 2673941 or by email to

birstallconservatives@gmail.com, or just by talking to us in the street. If we know about it, we will act upon it and it does not matter for whom you voted.”

Lib Dem candidate Simon Sansome came third in his bid to become Charnwood MP, and failed to hold on to his seat as Charnwood Councillor by 19 votes. He said: “It’s been a real pleasure representing Birstall on Charnwood Borough Council. I loved every minute, helping old friends and family with issues affecting them and fighting to protect Birstall.

“I hope that someone will pick up the baton now that I’m not on the council there is no voice against the 1500 homes next to Bentley’s Roses. The Tories are unlikely to fight this as it’s part of their Core Strategy.

“The Tories also made the election very personal by stating as a councillor I lied and broke the rules, which of course was rubbish. It was supposed to be a campaign on what we have achieved in the village but disintegrated into mudslinging and personal attacks.

“If there is one thing I’ve learned about being a councillor it’s about representing the people in the village, fighting for their issues and views, not fighting with other councillors and campaign agents. It’s not what politics is about and people turn away from politics because of statements like these.

“As a councillor I like to think I made a difference, I didn’t have a magic wand and make massive changes to the village but I did what I could as one councillor. I also like to think I’ve raised political awareness in the village by putting out regular news letters and I hope that residents will sit up and take notice of their new councillors and make them work for their allowance.

“I have not decided if I will stand for future election for the village, it’s too early after the election to make that decision.

However, Birstall does need a voice that will stand up and fight for the village. I like to think I did this for a short while.

“It’s been an amazing ride, I wish the newly elected councillors on the Borough Council all the best in their role.”

OPPORTUNITIES TO develop sports facilities on the Longslade College site are being considered by the Lionheart Academies Trust.

The trust, which embraces all Birstall’s schools, wants any facilities to benefit students at all schools, and the wider community.

Chair of the Lionheart Academy Trust Chris Swan said: “At the moment it's impossible to say what the outcome of our discussions will be, but the process will involve looking at local sports strategies and seeing how we can dovetail our work with needs that have been identified locally from a strategic point of view.

“These discussions will consider all sports including rugby, swimming, athletics, 4G football pitches, cricket, tennis and others. In the end any new facilities will have to pass the test of having an identified need, a source of funding, being sustainable long term, having partnership opportunities so that the academy can focus mainly on teaching and learning, and bringing direct benefits to children and young people in the Birstall schools.”

The trust plans to consult with other schools on how they sustain swimming pools on their sites.

Beat Bobby recognised BIRSTALL’S BEAT bobby has been nominated for an award.

PC Dave Jaeckels has been a beat officer in the village since September 2013 and is in the running to be the Leicester Mercury Beat Bobby of the Year.

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THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

Damage repaired WI news Birstall REPAIRS TO the damage caused by vandals at Watermead Country Park are under way with more than £2000 raised by local fundraising.

A spokesman for Leicestershire County Council told the Birstall Post: “We have been overwhelmed by the response of the local community and businesses who have rallied to support the rangers following the vandalism at Watermead.

“We would like to thank everyone who has contributed to helping ensure that the thoughtless acts of a few individuals of a few individuals have not spoilt the enjoyment of the park for visitors. So far, thanks to donated items and fundraising, the memorial trees have been replaced and the fending has been mended. New dog bins have been donated and will be installed soon, while we are still waiting for replacement benches to be made.”

The vandals struck on April 11, smashing fencing, benches, bins and snapping memorial trees.

Anstey resident Georgie Bedding set up an online fundraising campaign which has seen donations come in from individuals and businesses.

James Cole and Sons Nurseries of

Thurnby have donated six trees to replace the ones that were damaged.

To donate to the online fund go to www.gofundme.com/beatthevandals

Local lottery WIN A great cash prize and support Birstall BAGS by buying a Birstall 50/50 lottery ticket.

Organised by Paula Clifford, you buy one or more raffle tickets for £1 each and when the raffle is drawn on Sunday June 28, at Birstall gala, one lucky winner will receive 50 per cent of the fund, with the remaining half going to Birstall BAGS. Buy a ticket at Birstall Gala, look at Birstall’s 50/50 lottery on facebook, or contact Paula on 0793 455 1563

Highcliffe summer fair THE GATES of Highcliffe Primary School will be opened once again to welcome visitors to Highcliffe Summer Fair on Saturday June 20, 1-4pm.

“This exciting family fair is open to all members of the community who can come and join in the fun” said a spokesman.

A wide range of entertaining games, including the world’s largest tombola, inflatables and much more fun will be on offer as well as an impressive range of raffle prizes for winners of the prize draw. Tickets are available to buy from June 4 through the school office.

Local groups, many made up of children that attend Highcliffe Primary School, will be providing entertainment.

The popular Great Highcliffe Bake Off, now in its fourth year, will be hosted and everyone is encouraged to enter and show off their skills.

Two age groups, under 16s and over 16s can submit one entry into these categories: one large

cake or four identical cupcakes. Awards will be given to the winners of each category and there is a prize for best in show in each age group. Visitors to the fair will be able to sample the delights afterwards as the entries are sliced and sold to raise money for the school.

Also featuring on the day will be a market of homemade crafts, bouncy castle, coffee shop and raffle draw – with prizes donated by generous businesses across the village.

The event is organised by Highcliffe Parent Teachers Association. Reshma Kukadia, chair of the association, said: “Our Summer Fair is our main fundraising event of the year and has been fantastically supported by pupils, parents and carers alike. Last year we had a fantastic Summer Fair celebrating 50 years of Highcliffe Primary School and are looking for-

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THE MAY meeting for Birstall and Wanlip WI didn’t turn out quite as planned as our booked speaker did not attend but we still had a pleasant evening.

With no time constraints we were able to discuss our past, present and future business in a more leisurely fashion. We won our skittles match against Markfield WI in April so now go through to the next round. Maxilyn and Beverly brought in a wonderful diversity of knitted and crotched items made by members for sale at our Coffee and Craft morning in aid of Air Ambulance and Gorse Hill City Farm.

Due to our extended refreshment break there was more time to peruse the crafts and many members were tempted into buying items that evening getting our fund raising off to a good start.

We discussed and voted on the WI resolution concerning joined up care for the elderly to be put forward at the Centennial Annual Meeting at the Albert Hall.

Then Maxilyn gave us an impromptu chat about her voluntary work at a Memory Loss clinic helping not only sufferers of Alzheimer but also those who have memory loss due to loneliness.

Our June meeting will be our 97th Birthday Party at the Red Lion in Rothley when we will all attempt to wear hats or fascinators. Also in June Beverly and Chris will be attending the WI Afternoon Tea at Buckingham Palace in the presence of Princess Anne and the Countess of Wessex.

From Birstall & Wanlip WI

ward this year to another family fun day out for the whole community. I’d like to thank the local businesses who have been very generous in donating prizes and continuing to support us. We’d welcome any further donations.”

The Summer Fair runs from 1-4pm on Saturday June 20. Entrance is 50p per adult, free for school children, and can be paid at both Greengate Lane and Elmfield Avenue gates. If you would like more information or are interested in taking a stall for the homemade craft market, email HighcliffePTA@outlook.com or visit www.facebook.com/HighcliffePTA

S.L. Mason

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village gala STALLS, MUSIC, a funfair and fireworks are all promised at this year’s village gala.

Organised by Birstall Parish Council the event takes place on June 27/28 at the School Lane playing field.

The gala begins on Saturday at noon with performances by two dance academies, and local bands will be performing on stage from 1.30pm.

On Sunday, the gala begins with an outdoor church service at 11am and music will be performed between noon and 5pm.

The proms in the park in concert begins at 7pm and concludes with a firework finale at 9.45pm.

Visitors can bring their own picnics and chairs to the concert but no barbeques are allowed. There will be several hot food outlets available on site.

To help with the running costs of the gala there is a £1 admission charge. Stalls are still available and can be booked at www.birstallparishcouncil.org.uk Anyone who would like to volunteer to help the Parish Council run the event on Saturday or Sunday can contact Parish Clerk Sue Coulson on 0116 2676191.

Saturday Bands 12noon: Steps School of Dance 1pm: Faces Arts Dance Academy 1.30pm: Stonehill School Bands 2pm: Benji Was a Friend of Mine 3pm: The Kamikazes 4pm: RetroRocket 5pm: Seventy Seven 6pm: Ska-aManga 7pm: James Plimmer 8pm: 8 Miles High Sunday 11am: Outdoor Church Service 12noon: Alysha Dhakk 1pm: Fosse Swing Band 2pm: Peter Crebbin & his Cool Swing Band 3pm: Ashby Big Band 4pm: Nigel Merritt (Elton John Tribute) 5pm: The Annie Duggan Band Proms in the Park Event 7pm: The Hathern Band & Miss Jenny Saunders (soprano) 9.45pm: Firework Display to conclude the Gala 2015

Swans A LOCAL volunteer who loves swans is appealing for photos of swan nests.

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THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

News from the churches Something for everyone If we look around the activities which take place in the villages of Birstall and Wanlip, it becomes clear that with the exception of sport, there are far more interest groups aimed at women than for men. It may come as news to some people that there is a “Men’s Group” which meets every two months at 7.45pm on a Sunday evening at the British Legion, to listen to talks on topics of general interest or for discussion. Anyone is welcome (sorry, not ladies!) and ideas for speakers or discussion are always invited.

The next meeting will be on Sunday July 12, but Bert Tegg on 2673817 can supply more information.

St. James Monday Group – women only – meets on the seconf Monday of each month, and in the last year has supported the Bubble charity for children born without an immune system, for which they have raised £1720 through special events. This year the group will be raising money for the Alzheimer’s Society, alongside a programme of talks, visits and social events. Currently the group is meeting in the social area of St. James church and on Monday June 8 at 7.30pm there will be a talk by Revd Julie Ann Heath, who is known as a very entertaining speaker. Newcomers are always welcome to come along and try out this very active group. Jane on 2673761 or Joan on 2674223 can always supply more information.

Not forgetting the children...

Many of us will remember being “sent to Sunday School”, possibly on a Sunday afternoon, in our young days. Whether you remember that with pleasure or horror may have depended on the quality of the teachers!

Sunday school at St. James nowadays is a very different affair. A small team of adult helpers (including some former schoolteachers) works with the children in their own area at the back of the church during the 10 am service and through activities, songs and story-telling, they learn at their own level about the Christian faith. They usually come forward at the end of the service, to show to the adults what they have been doing. Again, any new children will be welcomed – the orange juice and biscuits at the end are very popular!

From Birstall Parish Churches

Ashwell Property Maintenance ALL ROOFING WORK COVERED FASCIAS, SOFFITS & GUTTERING REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE RE-BEDDING & RE-POINTING

Guided walk round old Birstall Historian and long-time resident of Birstall, Mr John Kilby is organising a walk around the older parts of Birstall. It takes place at 7pm on Tuesday June 2, meet at the School Lane Car park. Booking is essential (Tel John on 2673239). The charge is £2.50 with proceeds to the ‘Walk-in-the-light” building project.

Gala Service On the weekend of Birstall Gala, the morning service will take place on School Lane Playing Field at 11am. There will be no service at the Methodist Church. Andrew Biggins will lead this outdoor service of worship.

Paddington On Sunday June 21 at the Methodist Church the film “Paddington” will be shown.

Starting at 5.30. Tea & biscuits follow with a discussion on issues raised by the film including what it means to welcome a stranger.

The film has a PG category.

Charnwood Hike This event was scheduled for April, but due to a variety of circumstances has been postponed. The new date is September 12.

Charnwood Hike is a one day competitive event run by old boys of the Birstall BB Company, part of Birstall Methodist Church.

which examine basic Christian teachings for anyone who is either interested in finding out about Christian beliefs or in discussing and sharing beliefs. It is suitable for individuals of any denomination or religion (or none).

There will be plenty of time for questions and discussion in an informal setting. Please contact the number given below to register an interest and preference for day(s). We will then seek to arrange the most commonly convenient time and contact you with details.

If you would like to participate, but prefer a daytime meeting, then still get in touch and we will see what can be organised.

Services You are warmly invited to join us for any of our Sunday services. We meet in the Community Room at Highcliffe Primary School, Greengate Lane (LE4 3DL), starting at 10.45am Our visiting speaker this month is Dr. Simon Harrison (Leicester) on June 21.

Further information please ring 0116 2214883.

Anne Taylor, Birstall Independent Baptist Church

Cedar’s leaders

From Birstall Methodist Church

Looking ahead The popular School of Theology will again be held at the Metropolitan Tabernacle in London at the beginning of next month, from Tuesday 7th to Thursday 9th July. It is the 40th annual conference and the two US speakers this year are Dr. John Makujina from Erskine College in South Carolina and David Reed from Massachusetts. The other six speakers are from London, West Midlands, Scotland and Wales. The theme is: ‘Biblical Prerequisites for Spiritual Instrumentality.’ The two afternoon sessions consider Sunday Schools and a Pastor from Beirut will speak on the situation facing the Christian churches in Lebanon and the Middle East.

Full details can be found at: www.metropolitantabernacle.org Christianity course It is some time since we mentioned that we offer a free, six-week series of meetings,

THE SENIOR Leadership team of the new Cedars Academy has been appointed.

Stonehill High School and Longslade Community College will merge in September 2015 to create the new academy school, providing education for young people aged 11-19.

The acting principal of Longslade Mr Jason Smith, has been appointed Head of Academy. Sally Wicken will be Vice Principal (Teaching and Learning).

Alan Monks, Headteacher at Stonehill, and Dee Fox (Deputy Headteacher at Stonehill) both chose not to consider a post in the new academy and will leave Stonehill at the end of this academic year.

A letter to parents issued by the Cedars Academy said Dee Fox will be retiring and Alan Monks has chosen to “take the opportunity to consider a variety of future pathways”.

Cricket Corner BVCC has continued its fantastic start to the year in both the 1st XI and 2nd XI teams.

The 1st team are currently fourth place and in touching distance of top spot. Division 4 central is a very competitive league with many teams of similar ability, so winning key moments in matches and trusting the depth of the team has seemed to be the success at the moment. New signings Max Lewin has had a great start with the bat and Grant Wright is getting stronger every week with the ball and both look like quality acquisitions for the club.

The 2nd team after an uneasy start has really hit form. With the 1st team playing an established side each week, it has allowed skipper Ashley Coulthard to pick his best team. Ian Bartlett is on fire with the bat and BVCC junior Jack Wright is looking devastating with the ball. This is putting the club in a great position as we still have club academics Prad Sood and Sunny Lalseta to come back this month.

Exceptional Performances so far this season: 1st XI

Max Lewin, Andy Galpin, Kyle Thomas, Andy Lord.

2nd XI Ian Bartlett Rich Olsen, Ashley Coulthard, Jack Wright, Steve Findley Don’t forget that Saturday June 6 is our next social event – BBQ and drinks.

The BBQ will follow the 1st XI’s match vs Hinckley Town CC. All members and associated members of the club welcome!

Things happening in June (Home fixtures – 1pm start) Saturday 6th June –1st XI (vs Hinckley Town CC) Saturday 13th June – 2nd XI (vs Long Whatton 2nd XI) Saturday 20th June – 1st XI (vs Narborough and Littlethorpe 2nd XI) Saturday 27th June – 2nd XI (vs Loughborough Outwards 2nd XI) Saturday 4th July – 2nd XI (vs Hinckley CC 1st XI) Next Social event - Presidents Day, Sunday 12th July.

Any further information please contact Jon Gaydon on 07717533690.

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20

THE BIRSTALL POST JUN 2015

Birstall BAG’s cancer corner Smoking, E Cigs, Vaping and Cancer Risk Smokers are increasingly turning to vaporisers/E cigarettes to help them stop smoking. Birstall BAG's thought it might be helpful to update Birstall Post readers on what the experts say about these alternative smoking cessation alternatives.

Smoking is by far the biggest preventable cause of cancer. Thanks to years of research, the links between smoking and cancer are now very clear. Smoking accounts for more than 1 in 4 UK cancer deaths, and nearly a fifth of all cancer cases.

Smoking is very addictive because tobacco contains a powerful drug called nicotine. Cigarettes are deliberately designed to give you a fast nicotine hit. It takes less than 20 seconds for the drug to reach your brain from inhaled cigarette smoke. Nicotine causes addiction in much the same way as heroin or cocaine. It is just as addictive as these ‘harder’ drugs.

This is the reason why most smokers say they want to quit but find it so difficult. If you start smoking, you may find it very hard to stop later on.

Are e-cigarettes safer than cigarettes?

These new products, which have

become increasingly popular in the UK over the last few years, produce vapour from nicotine dissolved in propylene glycol or glycerine. Low levels of contaminating chemicals have been found in them but e-cigarettes are almost certainly far safer than smoking cigarettes.

E-cigarettes may have the potential to help smokers escape their deadly addiction to tobacco. But more evidence is needed to prove this – there have only been a few small trials so far. And these new products are not regulated yet, so they can vary significantly in quality and any possible long-term risks are not known.

At the moment there is great debate about the wider impact of e-cigarettes.

They could potentially save millions of

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Or they could be used along with cigarettes and sustain addiction or renormalize smoking. There is currently no evidence to support the concern raised by some sceptics that non-smokers are taking up vaporising/E Cigarettes believing them to be harm free.

Until more evidence is available, experts recommend using the NHS stop smoking services www.nhs.uk/livewell/smoking which we know can increase your likelihood of quitting by more than 3 times.

The simple message is STOP if you can but reducing harm through alternative measures is better than nothing!

For further information: www.cancerresearchuk.org and www.macmillan.org.uk 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 Contact the BAG’s by email birstallbags@hotmail.com Birstall BAG’s Registered Charity Number 1160190 PLEASE SUPPORT:- The first ever Birstall BAG's lottery - draw takes place at the Birstall GALA. 50/50 split in prize money and charity donation. £1 per ticket available from Paula Clifford or any of the BAG's.

The 2015 Watermead Challenge on Tuesday July 7th at 7pm, The Rotary Club of Wreake Valley annual 5 or 3 mile run around our glorious local park, which is being held in aid of Birstall BAG’s.

Small Ads Small ads are 25p for the first 16 words. 17-32 words: 50p. Enclosing payment, post your ad to us or hand it in (inside an envelope) at Birstall library.

Trade/business rates for small ads are 25p a word. You are liable for the trade/business rate if you are offering a service for which you are asking for payment, or if you are advertising new goods for sale. All text will be printed bold. Box outline £1 extra. Max 50 words.

Phone numbers count as one word.

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Extensions, conversions, new build. David Ives B.Sc.(Hons) FBEng MCIOB 0116 2674395 / 07974807111 www.amlidesign.co.uk Birstall BAG’s would like to encourage as many of our supporters as possible to enter the event – wear pink to show you support TheBAG's!

For more information and to register please visit: www.wreakevalleyrotary.org.uk Thank you all for you ongoing support.

THE BIRSTALL POST YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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0116 4422067 Correspondence, news etc can be handed in at: Birstall Library or to our office: Unit 109, Greenacres, The Sidings Leicester LE4 3BR,

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