the Birstall post Y O U R
C O M M U N I T Y
NOVEMBER 2015
N E W S P A P E R
www.birstallpost.co.uk
No. 388
Birstall are English champions BIRSTALL GOLF club can claim to be the best in England after winning the title of England’s Champion club. The club’s team of three – Chris Webb, Jack Merry and Steve Sansome – won the title against teams representing over 30 other counties at the finals at Brancepeth Castle, County Durham. They will now go on to represent England at the European champion club tournament in Cyprus. Keith Marston, the club’s president, said: “This is the biggest honour for Birstall Golf Club it its 114 year history. Everyone is very proud of the team. Being there when they clinched the title was a very special and emotional experience.” He added: “It is a fantastic achievement. Birstall is much smaller than many of the clubs we faced in the final. It is a tribute to the quality of our course and the strength of our players – especially our outstanding Junior section”. Birstall qualified for the competition by winning the Corah Shield, Leicestershire’s inter-club competition – the 9th time in 25 years the club has won that event, which highlights the club’s consistency. In the final the team finished on eleven over par after the two rounds, tied with overnight leaders City of Newcastle, but won the title on ‘count-back’. They staged an impressive second day come back, making up nine shots on Newcastle, with Jack Merry scoring a three under par 67 and Steve Sansome a 68 to haul back the difference, and Chris
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Pic: (l-r) Chris Webb, Jack Merry and Steve Sansome
Webb producing a crucial par on the last hole to snatch the title. All three were delighted and relieved at the conclusion. Sansome said they still fancied their chances after the first round. “We still felt we had a good chance if we played well. We knew we had a good team – but there were a lot of good teams there. We’re really thrilled and delighted” he said. Jack Merry, who came second in the individual competition, is already looking forward to the European final. “I have never played competitively overseas, so it will be fantastic to go to Cyprus” he said. The most relieved member of the three
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A LANDSCAPE gardener from Birstall has completed a gruelling 30 mile training exercise in Scotland designed to test the Royal Marines. Peter Gilbert (43) was aiming to complete the course in under eight hours, the time Commandos have to achieve, and was delighted to cross the line in 7hrs 28mins. Peter said: “The event was awesome, and to be able to follow in the footsteps of the Commandos on the original 30 miler was very humbling. “Not many fundraising events are quite so challenging, exhilarating and life changing while raising huge sums for such a worthwhile cause as Commando Spirit’s Survive the Yomp.” Continued on page 3
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was Webb, who feared he might cost the team victory when he scored 79 on the second day. He and the team had a long wait between that putt and victory being confirmed. “I had the biggest sigh of relief when we found out we had actually won. It was a very long 45 minutes and I didn’t dare look at the scoreboard. It is a bit of a dream to be honest. Winning competitions like this is the sort of thing you dream of when you start playing”. JUST BEFORE going to press, the Birstall Post learned that Birstall finished 15 out of 25 competing clubs at the European tournament in Cyprus.
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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
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Walk in light through new entrance A NEW main entrance has been created at Birstall Methodist church. “Most of the hundreds of people who enter Birstall Methodist Church every week were used to an entrance that was dark and dingy, open to the elements and secured by an iron gate more fitting for a prison than a church” said minister Rachel Parkinson. “All that has changed thanks to the Church’s “Walk in the Light” project. A
new main entrance has been created which is common both to the worship area and the intensively used community rooms. With a high ceiling, bright lights and automated doors for ease of access the project has proved an instant hit.” Reshma Thakrar, administrator for Birstall Methodist Pre-School, said: “We are delighted with the new entrance. It
Trek continued from page 1 Peter was one of a hundred civilians to take part in the Survive the Yomp challenge this September, carrying 38 lbs of equipment and trekking through the highlands of Scotland, near Spean Bridge. Participants were supported by serving Royal Marines from 43 Commando, former Royal Marines and volunteers. Sally-Anne Hunter, Commando Spirit Founder and Director, said: “The Survive the Yomp challenge is tough and as close to real life military training as it can get so Peter has shown great determination and courage to complete it. The challenge gives people the chance to feel what it would be like to be like a Royal marine for a day. The series of events provides a unique opportunity to get a glimpse into the intensive training Royal Marines Commandos endure, and the real life experiences they are often faced with.” The event raised funds for the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund, Peter has raised £855 – to donate, go to www.justgiving.com/peter-gilbert3
Half marathon TWO RUNNERS who have progressed from Birstall Running Club’s beginners group have recently completed the Robin Hood half marathon. Lee Melbourne completed the course in 2:02:40, a personal best. Tim Tickner achieved 1:20:28 and was 65th overall. Two other runners from Birstall Running Club also took part in the half marathon: Matt Sturgess (1 : 27 : 58) and Phil Halse (2: 16 : 14) Pic: Lee Melbourne (left) & Tim Tuckner
Pic: Peter Gilbert in Scotland
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is so light, airy and spacious. Parents love it too as they have a dry, warm area to wait in.” The opening ceremony took place on a Wednesday lunchtime so it could involve some of the youngest and oldest members of the wider Church community. Within 30 minutes of preschool finishing in the hall, around 50 people sit down to lunch every week. “Our buildings are always busy” said Rachel, “but Wednesdays are especially hectic!” With a SuperHero theme to the ceremony, the ribbon was cut by a mini Spiderman, Zane Davis. “All the children enjoyed making their superhero and princess masks” said Resh. “It was lovely to participate in the opening ceremony and be a part of the church’s vibrant community.” Fundraising will continue to allow the next phase of the £155,000 project, which is to refurbish
Pic: Jack Boyns, Archangel architects; John Towson, BMC; Rachel Parkinson, BMC; Cllr Robert Dickinson, Deputy Chair, Birstall Parish Council; David Bark, BMC; Samuel Hicks, DW Hicks Building Co Ltd.
the worship area. “It’s really important to us that the new entrance gives people access to our worship area during the week, for prayer or just a quiet place to sit and reflect” said Rachel. “Our next aim is to make this a more attractive and welcoming space.”
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THE BIRSTALL POST
NOV 2015
Over 400 attend Cedars Academy open day MORE THAN 400 visitors attended The Cedars Academy open day on September 26. Formed from the merger of Stonehill and Longslade schools, the occasion was marked by the planting of two trees by the Mayor of Charnwood, Cllr John Capleton, to represent two schools coming together to form a new 11-18 school. A time capsule was also sealed for opening in 2065 – it contained the school uniform, copies of local newspapers, maps and plans of the new school, a history of Birstall and other items.
Visitors were given the opportunity to go on a tour of the nearly finished new administration and student support block and to hear about the new buildings planned for the site. The Palmer Tomkinson Centre hosted a Year 6 open day and parents and their children were able to view the building, talk to teachers and interact with the exhibits provided by the science department. One parent was Harry Gill from Woodgate Drive who had brought his two sons aged 4 and 9. He said: “I’ve never visited the school before and it looks like a lot of money is being spent here on big improvements. The school’s
Pic: Young people from Faces Arts perform a Haka
Pic: planting a tree to mark the occasion are (l-r) Hugh Howe, Mayor John Capleton, Mayoress Meg Jenkinson and Cedars’ Headteacher Jason Smith
reputation has not always been great and I have been thinking – is this a good place to send my kids, but now I’ve seen
how much money is being spent it has given me confidence, the investment is reassuring.”
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The CPA, which helps the public to identify safe reliable contractors to carry out home improvements, awarded its 5 year Membership Achievement Award to CWC. Membership of the CPA means that customers have their deposits and guarantee underwritten by the organisation. 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.”
A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on October 12. PC Dave Jaeckels was unable to attend but his written report stated that the Police camera van had visited Birstall Road twice in the last month and a relatively high number of drivers had been caught speeding in a short period of time. A boy was bitten by a dog in the Hallam Fields estate on September 26, sustaining nasty facial injuries. The dog was seized by Police, the owners have been interviewed and an enquiry is ongoing, with witnesses being sought. The council has received a request for grant aid from Coping with Cancer, Leicestershire & Rutland. It was agreed to award the charity £565 for new equipment. The Council has agreed to spend £3100 for a replacement hardwood timber framed window for the Day Centre at the Village Hall. It was agreed to spend £160 on an annual service charge for the sliding gates at the School Lane playing field. The Council agreed that the closing times of the cemetery and the Harrowgate Drive playing field will now be dusk from Apr 1 to Aug 31 and 7.30pm from Sep 1 to Mar 31. The Council agreed to spend £1723 on the refurbishment of the cemetery gate.
THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
Pics: (top) building work continues & (below) a tour of the work in progress
Raj Lad from Roman Road was another visitor with his ten year old son. He said: “There’s quite a lot of development going on and we wanted to come and see the place and get a better feel for it. With the investment it seems it will be one of the top schools but I still need a better picture of their plans for the next few years, and what they have to offer my son.” Rita Cowham has two grandchildren at the school, After taking a tour of the new building she said: “I am very impressed with what they are doing, the investment is fantastic and I hope the children appreciate it.” A fun day on the sports field included stalls from local groups and organisations, a Haka Dance performed by students from Faces Arts and an exhibition of skipping and padwork by two boxers brought along by Carl Gunns – England champion Paige Murney and Leon Woodstock. Mr Jason Smith, headteacher at the Cedars Academy, said: “It was a wonderful day celebrating the opening of our new 1118 school. Pupils, staff and members of the local community have worked hard to showcase our wonderful new school.”
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Bridge to be painted ENGINEERS FACED the delicate task of removing a footbridge over part of the River Soar in Birstall. The White Horse bridge has been temporarily removed by the Canal and River Trust, the charity that cares for 2,000 miles of historic waterways in England and Wales, so it can be taken away and repainted. The bridge has been removed in order to avoid any paint getting into the water, polluting the river and potentially harming the wildlife that lives there. As the bridge is a well-used route into Watermead Park the Trust has installed a temporary bridge to allow people across in the meantime. A 100 tonne crane lifted the bridge from its existing position and onto a lorry which took it away to specialist painting contractors in near Doncaster. The works will involve blasting it with high pressure grit to remove the old paint before a new coat is applied. After some minor repairs the new coat of paint should protect the bridge for the next 25 years. Tim Brownrigg, senior project manager for the Trust, said: “This is quite a
delicate operation and not quite as simple as giving your front door a fresh coat of paint. “The River Soar is home to a wide variety of wildlife and in recent decades water quality has improved to such an extent that otters have been spotted in the heart of the city. It’s our job to protect the ecology of the river and to ensure that it remains a special place for people and wildlife. “That’s why we’re going to the extent of removing the bridge so that we can prevent any nasty stuff getting into the water. Once finished the bridge will be put safely back in place making the area look a lot smarter for all the local people who use it every day.” The works, which are expected to be completed in around six weeks, may disrupt use of the river, towpath and the bottom of White Horse Lane at some times for safety reasons but it is expected that the routes will remain open during the works.
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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
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BAGS charity golf match at Birstall Santa tour SANTA’S SOAR Valley Tour will once again be visiting Birstall this year.
BIRSTALL GOLF Club was at its best as it hosted Birstall BAGS inaugural Charity Golf day on a beautiful autumnal day in October. Many of the 96 golfers who took part had never played at Birstall before. Members present on the day were very proud to hear their positive feedback about not only the first class quality of the course but also the friendliness and welcome received throughout the club. A spokeswoman for BAGS said: "BAGS supporters John and Jo Clayton’s efforts resulted in an overwhelmingly successful fundraising day. A staggering £1,500 was raised for the bag’s charity which seeks to support any cancer initiative that benefits our local community.” The Birstall BAGS would like to thank Birstall Golf Club, Jo and John Clayton, all the golfers who took part and especially those who provided prizes for the raffle and golf competition. Birstall Golf club welcomes new members and have a number of special offers available. Please contact the club directly for more information.
Pic: Birstall BAG's team: (l-r) Georgia White, Emma Shaw (trustee), Kiera White, Rosie Houldsworth (BAG's Secretariat), Liz Darlison (trustee), Jo Clayton (event initiator) and Lilia Clayton
Pics: (top) Andy Farrell, Ryan Darlaston, Andy Stirk and the inspiration for The BAG's inaugural golf event John Clayton; (right) Birstall Golf Club Lady Captain's Team Kath Cottingham, Joan Preston, Karen Dalzell-Payne (lady captain), Sandra Clark.
Organised by Soar Valley Rotary Club he will visit Birstall on Monday Dec 21 in the Colindale Ave/Wanlip Lane area and Tuesday Dec 22, around the Greengate Lane & Saltersgate Drive area between 6-8pm. As usual Santa will be greeting families from his sleigh which will be drawn by a vehicle kindly loaned by Loughborough Kia, whist Soar Valley Rotarians will be collecting for Rotary charities. A Rotary spokesman said: “All the money raised goes to help good causes and to date the Club has donated over £200,000 for local charities large and small. Charities which have benefited include LOROS, Rainbows, Macmillan, Prostaid, Age UK and the Air Ambulance and we have helped young people through Wishes 4 Kids and Rotary Youth Exchange.” Recent grants include the Sorrel Youth Café in Mountsorrel and the Carl Gunns Community Gym in Birstall.
New allotment entrance plan LEICESTER CITY Council want to create a new access point to the Red Hill allotments. They want to re-open an overgrown and disused entrance which is on the slip road access to the Loughborough Road petrol station. They also plan to create a short section of road from the entrance into the allotments to join an existing service road.
The City Council say “the completed works will improve safety for allotment users to be able to access plots before the entrance to the adjacent fuel station and egress back onto the A6 using an existing entrance.” The entrance will be fitted with a new gate.
County Council Highways were consulted about the plans. Their response says: “Whilst the location of the access directly off the slip road to the filling station is undesirable, given that there is an existing access already there that could be used without the need for planning approval, it would be unreasonable to seek to resist this proposal on highway safety grounds.” Planning application reference is 20151790
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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
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Principal Year’s fundraising by local women to retire A YEAR of fundraising by a women’s group has raised £2,200 for a cancer charity.
THE EXECUTIVE Principal of the Lionheart Academies Trust, which includes all Birstall’s schools, has announced he will be retiring in July 2016. Hugh Howe has been in the teaching profession for 37 years. He joined Beauchamp College as its principal in 2010 leading it to become the most successful school in the county, rated as ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.
From September 2014 to September 2015 the Birstall Methodist Monday Women’s Group have been working hard to raise funds for their project Look Good Feel Better (LGFB). On Monday September 28 a cheque for £2,200 was presented to Sue York, Regional Co-ordinator for Leicester of the charity, Look Good Feel Better, which helps women overcome the visible side-effects of their cancer treatment. Free skincare and make-up workshops are run every three weeks at the Leicester Royal Infirmary for ladies currently going through cancer treatment. These workshops now take place in over 80 hospitals and cancer centres throughout the UK and to date over 100,000 women have benefited from the Look Good Feel Better workshops. The challenging side effects of cancer
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Pic:Hugh Howe
Beauchamp College began supporting Longslade in the academic year 2012/13 and has been instrumental in improving standards at the college, which has now merged with Stonehill school to become the Cedars Academy. Mr Howe said: “My greatest professional satisfaction has been to work with and for young people and in helping to make their dreams a reality. It has been an honour to work with talented and dedicated colleagues in our schools. “In making this announcement now, it will allow the Trust’s Board of Directors the opportunity to consider the best structure and appointment going forward to build on our work and continue to provide senior leadership support for our schools. At this time of change, a constant feature of our work, I would like to assure you that we continue to focus on the young people so that they can fulfil their full potential.” Chair of the Board of Directors of the Lionheart Trust Mrs Chris Swan said: “We are incredibly saddened to hear that Hugh will be retiring at the end of this academic year as we have valued, and continue to value, his skills and experience in ensuring the best possible education for pupils in our schools. “During Hugh’s time as Beauchamp Principal & then as Executive Principal of the Trust, we have benefited greatly from his skill in recognising & developing the potential within the staff team. The Cedars Academy has a secure leadership team which has already taken significant steps in establishing the new school and working to raise standards, and Hugh and others are working with Highcliffe and Riverside Primaries to appoint a full leadership team which will be embedded within this academic year.”
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Pic: members present a cheque to Sue York from LGFB
treatment can be devastating with the loss of hair, eyebrows and eyelashes. The Look Good Feel Better workshops help women in a very practical and positive way but at the same time they are informative, lively and most of all, fun. Sue York said: “Going through cancer treatment can be a very lonely experience and by attending a workshop it provides a real source of support, in a relaxing, enjoyable environment where, as well as the workshop itself, ladies get to meet and chat to others going through treatment like themselves and by the end leave looking fantastic and able to face the world again.” Sue York thanked the Monday Women’s Group on behalf of the many women who will benefit from the workshops. Any women currently
going through cancer treatment who would like to book on to a workshop can call Sue Errington on 0116 2585760.
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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
YOUR SAY...
raised £486.18 for the Alzheimer’s Society at the Coffee Concert held on September 26th. Many thanks to everyone who attended or helped in any way. Cynthia Coltman
Thanks
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
I would like to thank members of the community, all past and present clients for all their well wishes, support and kind thoughts during my time away from the salon due to illness. I'm now back at Restyle and, following recent staff changes, will be looking after all client's hair personally. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone very soon so do not hesitate to give me a call to make an appointment with me, Jackie. Best wishes and kind regards Jackie Ferrar Restyle , Birstall
Thanks
Thanks
The St James Monday Group & members of the 663 Instrumental Ensemble
We would like to say a big thank you to all our valued customers and friends
for all your support at our Macmillan Coffee Morning that we held at The Salon on Friday September 25. We would like to thank everyone who contributed from donating gifts for the raffle, donating wonderful baked cakes and helping us eat them too! A huge thank you once again to each and everyone of you who helped and joined us. Our fantastic total was £611.60. Giovanna, Sue, Maria, Roxanne and Lisa, The Salon, Sibson Rd
Thanks Birstall Quilters thank all those friends who came to their Coffee Morning and Sale on Saturday October 10. With this support we made £879.65 in aid of Motor Neurone disease, the Leicester Branch. Raffle Prizes: the quilts were won by Mrs J Norris and Mrs Carter. Other winners were: Mrs H Derbyshire, Mrs B Roberts, Mrs B Wigmore, Mrs A Arthur, Mrs M Hudson and Mrs Yates. Christine Hewson
Volunteers Leicestershire Neighbourhood Watch Association is a registered charity and under going major modernisation within the organisation. We are currently seeking members to undertake voluntary roles on the County Executive Committee. At a later date, we will be looking to recruit members to serve on the District Committees. Neighbourhood Watch works very closely with many agencies including Police, Fire Service, City, County and District Councils to make our neighbourhoods a safer, nice place to live in, also helps with social interaction and cohesion within communities. If you have organisational and/or professional skills that you would like to share with Leicestershire people, are committed to promote safer communities, would like to join us and to take an active role in this exciting venture then please contact us. Susan Marlow (NHWN, Communications Administrator, Leicestershire) E-mail: info@LeicsNHW.co.uk Phone: Declan 0116 2715818 or Stephen 0116 2404898
Drones
BMC
With reference to the article in the last edition of the Birstall post concerning drones. Is this not an invasion of people's privacy? Also, there are surely security issues, photos and video footage of people's property in the wrong hands, need I say more. Maybe there are some laws in place regarding where you are allowed to fly these drones. Perhaps Mr Smith would like to comment? Concerned resident. Thank for your comments on the article about drones in the last issue of The Birstall Post. Drones and their cutting edge technology absolutely fascinate me but other people must be considered when you are flying your drone and there are some basic rules to follow. Drones shouldn’t be flown within 50m of any person except during takeoff and landing, and shouldn’t be flown within 50m of any vehicle or structure that is not under the control of the person in charge of the aircraft. Drones also have great high quality cameras on board so you must be polite and respect people’s personal space. Any images taken of people or private property should be with their permission and all images are subject to data protection in the same way as when you’re out walking with a conventional camera. Drones will soon become part of our everyday lives and have already been used for such things as delivering drugs to remote clinics in Australia as well as crop management for farmers in the UK and it won’t be too long before drones are delivering online purchases direct to our homes. I believe drones are a force for good and apart from anything else it’s great fun to get out there and fly. If you would like further advice about the responsible use of drones then please contact me at Leicesterdrones.com Christian Smith
THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
Medical Centre I have lived in Birstall for over fifty years. I was first treated by Dr Kelly on Loughborough Road, then Dr Gilbert on Greengate Lane. Though their services were excellent, their facilities were limited to say the least. It was with this background that I joined the Birstall Medical Centre. The quality of service I have received has been second to none. Whether the nature of the illness has been serious or minor, I have been treated with the utmost courtesy by all the staff and where an urgent appointment has been required then a space has been found for me at the first available opportunity. The treatment itself, from which ever doctor I have seen and the manner in which it has been explained to me, has been exemplary. In other words, the service at the ‘sharp end’ has been faultless. It now transpires that an Inspectorate has come into the practice and found administrative anomalies. Having been involved with Ofsted inspections at schools and other government funded inspectors, I am not surprised. That is what they are paid to do. That said, the proof of the pudding is definitely in the eating and as far as Birstall Medical Centre is concerned, in their dealings with me and my family, they have been brilliant. If their administrative work has not been up to standard then I was unaware and I am not that concerned. All I want is for them to provide treatment for me and mine in my time of need. They have done this faultlessly. Perhaps the Inspector’s time would be better spent in trying to reduce the amount of spurious paperwork and bureaucracy that the National Health Service would
appear to demand and which is obviously choking up the system. I prefer my doctor to specialise in patient care rather than paperwork. Name and address supplied
New school It’s great news that Birstall is to get another much needed primary school, however, will they have the staff to run it? I read recently that 50,000 teachers had left the profession in the last year in the UK due to: lack of support, working in a business culture rather than educational culture, ever increasing admin duties rather than teaching, and the ever increasing number of ‘middle managers’ walking around with clipboards trying to justify their existence in the school / academy. A typical working week for my partner comprises being at school for 7.30am, home at 5pm then continuing with school work Mon – Thurs 6.30pm – 9.30pm ( Fri evening off !) then working again most of Sunday, it is no surprise that they are to be one of the 50,000 leaving shortly, as burn out is not an option! Name & address supplied
Thanks On September 23 I had a nasty fall on Sibson Road. I would like to thank everyone who helped me and stayed with me until the ambulance arrived. I’m feeling a bit better now. June Robinson
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Shirley Scott Many congratulations to Michael Smith for his marvellous book 'Birstall Recalled' which he has very kindly dedicated to my dear late husband, Shirley Scott. I am so touched by this gesture Birstall History Society meant a great deal to Shirley. His knowledge of Birstall was immense and he was such an active part of Birstall and Wanlip. Mick and Shirley had so many happy times together over the years and I remember the fun we all had with The Old Time Music Halls. We called the group, 'Scott's Follies', otherwise know as, 'The Birstall Pier and Lighthouse Preservation Society', or 'The Vicar's Knickers High Kickers'. Shirley played the piano and Mick was the chairman replacing the late Paul Connolly when he moved away. A group of friends sang, performed melodramas, made the costumes and choreographed the routines. We performed in various venues and changed in what were sometimes mere cupboards. How well I remember our appearance at Ashwell Open Prison with a super stage and lighting and a captive audience. Another memorable occasion was a hilarious evening when we were invited by Paul Connolly's sister to entertain a group including nuns and monks. Shirley had to 'doctor' his jokes and one of my song seemed rather risqué but we needn't have worried. I can still see one of the Brothers laughing so much he fell off the bench he was sitting on. Happy days!
Pic: Shirley Scott (right) & Mike Smith
So, thank you Mick for a super book and thank you also Betty - behind every great man there is usually a very patient woman. Jane Scott
Tree? To say that we were disgusted to read the item in the October Post about 'A New Tree This Christmas' is an understatement. For starters can a blue cone be called a tree? It would be interesting to see both a cost benefit analysis and an environmental impact statement justifying the decision to spend £7995 on what we fear will be a piece of TAT. If the council cannot be bothered to purchase and erect a real tree it would be better if they didn't waste tax payers money on a 24 foot blue cone that will not even look like a tree. So much for adopting a cedar tree as the emblem of the village! Julie & John Ward
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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
Noticeboard all details printed free Birstall Christmas Lights Switch On & Christmas Market Friday 4 December - 5:30pm on Sibson Road Car Park Festive performances by James Plimmer and Alyshia Dhakk from 5:30pm Switch On event will take at 6:00pm on the Sibson Road Car Park Fairground attractions on the Sibson Road Car Park from 3:30pm Hot Dogs, Burgers, Hot Potatoes, Roasted Chestnuts Santa has confirmed that he is able to drop by and be with us from 5:30pm Christmas Market in the Village Hall from 4:30pm Tea, Coffee, Soup and cold drinks available from the Day Centre kitchen on Birstall Road If you or your organisation are interested in having a stall at the Christmas Market, please contact the office for further information or download the forms on the Council’s website: www.birstallparishcouncil.org.ouk And don’t forget your FREE Mince Pie and Mulled Wine also available for collection from the Day Centre Kitchen on Birstall Road from 6:30pm The Latimer Players present
Humpty Dumpty
www.friendsofbelgravecemetery.org.uk
At The Memorial Hall, Anstey Lane, Thurcaston 28th, 29th, 30th November 7.30pm Saturday matinee 2.00pm Adult Tickets £7 Children 6-12 £4 Under 5 Free with a ticket Available from Tel: 0116 2376855 Email: christinedeavin@btinternet.com
Mountsorrel Methodist Church LE12 7JB We celebrate the 20th anniversary of our Eminent Organ on Saturday November 21st 2015 with a St. Cecelia’s Eve Concert featuring
Birstall Methodist Church Friday 27th November 2015 10am - 6pm Saturday 28th November 2015 10am - 2pm
Christmas Festival theme "White Christmas" Church Admission £1.00 (accompanied children free) Home-made cakes, pastries & pies. Christmas decorations, crafts & gifts. Home-made preserves Tombola, Raffle, Quiz Hot Dogs & Pancakes TABLE TOPS Saturday 10am - 2pm Coffee Shop open throughout the event Light Lunches 12.00-1.30 Proceeds supporting Birstall Methodist Church & Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance Belgrave Cemetery
Remembrance Sunday Service 8th November 11am Conducted by The Rev’d Pam Haynes Refreshments available All are Welcome
8ctave Britain’s only Fully-ordained Vocal Ensemble Conductor Rev. Simon Lumby Organist Tim. Lees and Harpist, Rev. Rowena Bass The concert will commence at 7pm and will be followed with a Buffet Supper Tickets £6. Each from: Les. Longmire tel.01162375652 Geoff. Wainwright tel. 01162376979 e.mail: mountsorrel2310@btinternet.com Ivanhoe Model Railway Society
Diecast Toy & Train Fair The Rothley Centre 12 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE7 7PR. Sunday 15th November 2015 Doors open 10:30 – 16:00 Admission £1 Refreshments Wheelchair Friendly Ample Free Parking For more information, please visit: www.ivanhoe-mrs.co.uk
Birstall & District Local History Society The next meeting of the society takes place on Thursday 12th November 2015 commencing at 7.30pm in the Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall, Leics. The subject of the talk is "The Life of English and the Welsh Archers in the 14th & 15th Centuries". Speaker will be Peter Hallett. There will be car parking available for this talk on the Birstall Playing Fields through the School Lane entrance. Visitors are very welcome to join us for this talk
Birstall Royal British Legion 7th Evonne Rivers 14th Colin Stevens 21st TBC 28th Shirley Ann Scott
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 8th and 29th November starting at 9pm Acoustic night Sunday 15th November at 8pm Food available every Saturday 122pm Wakes catered for Free Wi-Fi available New outside seating area
Birstall Tea Dances Fridays 6th & 20th November also 11th December Xmas Dance Doors open at 3.30 to 5.30pm £3 pp Tea / Coffee and cakes included. further information: Jackie Lucas 0116 2248278 / 07908607405 email: jackielucas957@hotmail.co.uk Riverside School will be holding their annual
Christmas Fayre on Friday November 27th. Santa will be there in his grotto. If anyone is interested in doing a stall at this event please contact us through our facebook page: https://m.facebook.com/RiversideSc hoolPTA
Santa’s Coming Santa will again be visiting The Baldwin Trust’s narrowboat St.Clare It will be sailing from The Hope & Anchor Wanlip every Saturday and Sunday starting 28th November until 20th December and also 21st and 22nd December cost £5 each. Santa will have a present for all children 12 and under drinks and a mince pie for everyone else to book ring his hotline on 0754 8813168. Saturday 28th November, 2.30 – 5.30pm. Come along & enjoy all the fun of a
Christmas Fair Venue: Rothley Primary School, Burrow Drive, Rothley, LE7 7RZ Lots of high quality Christmas gifts will be on offer, festive stalls and fun for all. A luxury Christmas hamper (including lots of locally sourced items) and lots of runner up prizes which have been donated by local businesses can be won by entering the Christmas Raffle. Raffle
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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
tickets available from Rothley School Office. There will be facepainting, a Santa's Grotto, and a Mince Pie and Carrot Cake Bake off – with Stonehurst Farm Family Tickets and Dolce Verde vouchers for the winners. All proceeds will go towards enhancing the school life of children at Rothley Church of England Primary School. St James Monday Group invite you to
Afternoon Tea at St James Church Social Area, School Lane, Birstall on Saturday 12th December 2.30pm to 4.30pm. There will be a Christmas themed bring and buy stall, surprise Christmas parcels and a raffle. Please come along and support The Alzheimer's Society. We should love to see you.
Film Presentations Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council “Selma” Nov 13, (128 mins). "Selma" is a chronicle of Martin Luther King's campaign to secure equal voting rights via an epic march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, in 1965. Played by Oxford-born David Oyelowu, Luther King was mesmerising, but even a trip to the White House by Luther King was unsuccessful. This film is very powerful, with terrific performances by the actors. “Far from the Madding Crowd” Dec 11 Thomas Vinterburg has assembled a superb cast for his new version of Thomas Hardy's "Far from the Madding Crowd". Carey Mulligan stars as Bethsheba, a landowner who attracts attentions from three different suitors. This is a gorgeous costume drama. Watch out for the breath-taking cinematography in this enthralling film. Our first film in 2016 will be on January 8. Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall. Starting at 7.30pm. Tickets will cost £5 and concessions will be £4.50. There will be refreshments and a lucky prize draw during the interval. Advanced tickets may be purchased via the parish office –0116 236 7626 or at the door.
St. Nicholas Fayre Saturday 5th December. 11.30 am - 2 pm at the Hall in Wanlip. Variety of stalls including plants and cakes. Refreshments of teas, cakes and soup available . This will be followed in the evening with a concert given by 'The Glenfield Ladies Co - Operative Choir' in Wanlip Church at 7.30 pm. Tickets £7.50 including refreshments. Contact 0116 2672630 or available on the door. All proceeds to the Hall Refurbishment Fund.
CLASH activities and events General exercise sessions Tuesday 1pm - 2pm and Seated exercise sessions Wednesday £1 per session. 1pm - 2pm. Peepul Centre Gym, Peepul centre. Call Karen for further information on 07954584402. Seated & General exercise sessions Tesco Express, Community Room Shelthorpe, - 2.30pm - 3.30pm commencing Wednesday 21st October £1 per session. CLASH Monthly Meeting - Wednesday 11th November, 6pm - 8pm. PIP, Winnie Dolan - DOCK, 75 Exploration Drive, Leicester, LE4 5NU
NEARER a space to explore the Christian faith in a new and creative way Sunday 8th November 3:30 to 5pm at Wanlip Community Hall For more details see www.nearergroup.org
Age Concern Birstall and Wanlip 200 club winners August: 1st Geoff Heath, 2nd Doreen Wilson, 3rd Howard Johnson, 4th Nicky Willis Sept: 1stSue Jackson, 2nd Jenny Burton, 3rd Kate Mobbs, 4th Cynthia Chapman Oct: 1st Mr & Mrs Tony Cox, 2nd Cynthia Chapman, 3rd Harold Morris, 4th Shirley Ball
Look Out for Santa Wreake Valley Rotary Club’s Santa Sleigh will be visiting the area before Christmas. Santa collects for a range of local charities. Please come out and say hello to him. Santa’s routes will appear on the club website, www.wreakevalleyrotary.org.uk, in early December. Your support is much appreciated. Birstall St. James Church Social Group invite you to a
Quiz Afternoon & Cream Tea on Sunday November 22nd at 2.30pm Birstall Village Hall, School Lane Cost £3
Christmas Vintage Tea Party
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& Handmade Craft Fair Birstall Methodist Church on Saturday 5th December from 10am-2pm Vintage tea party including festive treats and bakes. Gifts and Decorations perfect for Christmas including handcrafted quality wooden and fabric decorations, textile wear and home deco and paper craft and gift cards. Vintage fashions, jewellery and shabby chic deco. Contact info for stall availability and enquires: LettersandStitch@gmail.com 07811069007 Highcliffe Amateur Theatrical Society Pantomime 2015 Come along and see HATS 2015 Pantomime.
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Doors will be open half an hour before each performance. Venue: Highcliffe Primary School, Greengate Lane, Birstall, Leicestershire LE4 3DL. Tickets: £6.00 adults, £5.00 concession. £20 for family tickets (2 adults and up to 3 children) Discount for group bookings of 10 or more people (price available at time of booking) Contact details: 0116 2209594, or 0116 2128757. Email hatsbirstall1@hotmail.co.uk Don’t delay, book today. Leicester Society of Artists
Annual Exhibition 2015 Nov 6, 2015-January 9, 2016
Alice in Wonderland by Kate Parry and Karen DolanSmith, in association with Jasper Publishing Ltd. Although this is a traditional story there are some very entertaining twists to make it more interesting. Why not come along with friends, family, colleagues, neighbours or by yourself. Find that child within you again. Get involved in the interaction with the cast: shout, hiss, clap, whoop and laugh. We are sure you will have a wonderful time, if only laughing at our mistakes. And we are sure you will return again and again. Dates: November 26th, 27th and 28th at 7.15 p.m. and a matinee performance on the 28th at 2.30.p.m.
New Walk Museum, 53 New Walk, Leicester LE1 7EA Paintings, sculpture, ceramics, prints and multi-media dazzle in one of the largest group shows of art in the city. Leicester Society of Artists celebrates the arrival of 28 newly elected members this year so join the many talented artists showing their
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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
latest work for the first time. Take the opportunity to stroll down historic New Walk this winter, have a coffee in the museum café and discover the huge range of art created by artists living, working and studying in Leicestershire and Rutland. www.leicestersocietyofartists.co.uk
Autumn Art Fair by artists’ group ArtSpace, Loughborough New Building, Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall Sat/Sun Nov 7/8, 10am to 4pm Adm free Paintings, drawings, ceramics, textiles, photographs All work for sale
Birstall & District Art Society Tuesday November 10 at 7pm You are invited to join us at the Palmer Tomkinson Centre at Longslade College, LE4 4GH to watch renowned artist Fiona Peart giving a demonstration how to paint farm animals in a landscape using watercolour and water-soluble pencils. Join us for this delightful demonstration (due to end at approximately 9pm). Members £1, Guests £3. Free raffle. Ample parking and wheelchair access. 2nd Leicester Boys Brigade at Birstall Methodist Church Saturday November 21 10am to 12noon
Coffee morning & cakes Tombola & raffle Come along & enjoy yourself with friends Betty Allcock (Captain)
ALAN CHAMBERS PAINTER & DECORATOR
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The Annual Wreake Valley Rotary
10am to 12noon 10 Sibson Road, Old Council Office Talk to your District & County Councillors to discuss any issue of local concern
Carol Service will be held at Syston Methodist Church at 3pm on Sunday December 13 The traditional service will be taken by the Rev Steve Hoggar and the soloist will be Tabatha Pegg of Queniborough The service will be followed by tea or coffee and mince pies All welcome If you would like to attend please contact info@wreakecalleyrotary.org.uk or telephone 07979 645605. Transport can be arranged
Birstall Running Club Meet Monday & Friday nights, 6.20 for 6.30 run Birstall School Lane playing fields – showers & toilets available Wednesday night beginners group at Birstall Legion 7pm Speed work sessions also available on Wednesdays for those wanting to improve Contact Deryk on d-woods1@sky.com or Bob 07927 346640 Web site – www.birstallrc.org.uk
Charnwood Orchestra
Annual Concert
Breastfeeding your baby? Be in the company of like minded mums? Pop along for a cuppa. Babies and toddlers welcome La Leche League Birstall Breastfeeding Group
Barrow Youth Theatre Presents the popular junior Disney musical Fri. Nov 20, 7pm Sat. Nov 21, 2pm & 7pm Humphrey Perkins School, Cotes Road, Barrow LE12 8JU £8, children & students £6 Box Office: 077 181 531 17 or judithrodgers155@gmail.com The standard of performance is already shaping up to be exceptional and the skill of our young members is truly awe-inspiring. The production will be visually stunning and hugely entertaining. Councillor Surgery Last Sat of every month
SALTY’S IN Syston is a vintage style retail shop, a café and tea room and on Saturday nights becomes a bistro entertaining diners with music performed by TV talent show winners Nick and Tina Salt, who own the business.
Want to know more about
Sat Nov 28, 7.30pm Dvorak: In Nature’s Realm, Carneval, Othello Brahms: Piano Concert No.1, soloist Katya Apekisheva Tickets: £12, £10 (concessions), £3 for accompanied children under 16 Box Office: 07718 153117 judithrodgers155@gmail.com
The Little Mermaid
Salty’s in Syston
Help judge the best painting in the show. Refreshments available Free admission, Free Parking Wheelchair access Village Hall, Birstall Supporting LOROS and RAINBOWS Sat 31st Oct 9.30am to 5pm Sun 1st Nov 9.30am to 5pm Mon 2nd Nov 9.30am to 3pm
Nick said: “It is a very unique and different venue and we are getting busier every day.” Nick and Tina have been professional entertainers for 35 years, winning Des O’Connor’s ITV talent show ‘Pot of Gold’ in the mid nineties. They have lived in Mallorca for seven years performing in hotels before moving to America where they entertained on American cruise ships, returning to England two years ago. Nick said: “Our passion outside of entertaining is me cooking and my wife’s fantastic ability for upcycling furniture, so we decided to open Salty’s”. Salty’s is at 1245 Melton Road, Syston, near to the Wilkinson store.
Elizabeth Park
November 22nd 11am-4pm
2nd Thursday of the month, 1-2.30pm
Birstall Village Hall for more info call Jackie 0778 7130801 or find us on facebook •
Birstall & District Art Society
21st Annual Art Exhibition
Wedding Fayre Over 20 exhibitors with both unique &traditional ideas for your big day, including photographers, caterers, bridal wear, jewellery, photo booths, wedding cars & lots more!
Plus the beautiful indoor marquee at Elizabeth Park is on show all day long, the ideal venue for your special occasion For more information please call 0116 2602519 Elizabeth Park Sports & Community Centre, Checkland Road, Thurmaston LE4 8FN
THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
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Happy Birthday Singer, Guitarist, Poet, Folk Legend Thinking of you always, love Shelagh
BIRSTALL UNITED Juniors Football Club is appealing for volunteers to help secure the club’s future. Each weekend dozens of children from Birstall and the surrounding area come to the club on Meadow Lane to train and play in matches at home, in tournaments and across the county Club spokesman Steve Carr said: “The managers and coaches volunteer many hours of their time but now we are looking for a little more help to take out club to the next level.” He added: “We are planning development this season which we hope will finally give
Visit Wonderland with HATS this autumn HIGHCLIFFE AMATEUR Theatrical Society’s annual pantomime is ‘Alice in Wonderland’.
the club the facilities we all deserve. There is currently some money set aside, but as a non-profit community charity we will always partly rely on voluntary help to secure the club’s future. So we are looking for help in these areas.” Coaching; there are often opportunities to take on a team or help out with one – for example, at the moment the club is short of an U7s manager. “It is vital the club is growing from the youngest ages up. The club funds its managers to get CRC checked and FA Level 1 trained” said Steve. Café; volunteers are needed to run it at weekends. “Income from the café has the potential to pay the club’s rent for
the entire year, as well as being an important service for the club – who doesn’t like a cup of tea and a hot dog on those cold mornings! At the moment we just haven’t been able to keep it open. If you are interested in helping out for a few hours, selling sweets, drinks and hot food, let us know and we will finally be able to set up a proper rota” said Steve. Clubhouse: the clubhouse has been cleared and the club are looking to redevelop it with new toilets, a café with seating area, upgraded changing rooms and more. “Are you an architect, roofer, plumber, builder, electrician etc? Would you be willing to give the club a few hours of your time, or at least ‘mates rates’? Please get in touch” said Steve General groundsman duties: “There are plenty of different duties in this area, please get in touch if you are interested” said Steve The club is also looking for help from anyone with experience in applying for grants and fundraising. You can make contact with the club by visiting the ground, or via email: carr-s2@sky.com www.bujfc.co.uk
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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 Pic: the cast of Alice in Wonderland
“Although this is a traditional story there are some very entertaining twists to make it more interesting” said Sue Withers from HATS. “Why not come along with friends, family, colleagues, neighbours or by yourself. Find that child within you again. Get involved in the interaction with the cast: shout, hiss, clap, boo, whoop and laugh. See how many animals you can recognise within this magical pantomime. “We are sure you will have a wonderful time, if only laughing at our mistakes” Dates: November 26, 27 & 28 at
7.15pm and a matinee performance on the 28th at 2.30pm Doors will be open half an hour before each performance Venue: Highcliffe Primary School, Greengate Lane, Birstall, Leics LE4 3DL Tickets £6 adult, £5 concession. £20 for family tickets (2 adult and up to 2 children) Discount for group booking of 10 or more people (price available at time of booking) Contact details: 0116 2209594 or 0116 2128757 Email: hatsbirstall1@hotmail.co.uk
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
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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
Flats for the over 60s A PROJECT to transform Riversdale Court sheltered housing scheme in Birstall is now almost complete and tenants will soon be preparing to move back in. The flats are located on Riversdale Close and are sheltered scheme owned by Charnwood Borough Council. The £3 million project turned the old bedsits into high-quality, one-bedroom flats with new kitchens and bathrooms, and was carried out by the Council’s contractor, Willmott Dixon. Councillor Leigh Harper-Davies, Cabinet Member for Housing said: “We are delighted with the remodelling of these flats. The work represented a significant investment for us, but we are committed to making council homes better for residents. “Anyone over 60 who is thinking of moving should consider a flat at Riversdale. Existing tenants are looking forward to moving back in and we would welcome any new tenants to these fantastic flats. They make an ideal home for many older people.” The Council’s sheltered schemes are aimed at residents over 60 who enjoy living independently but would like the support of a warden, a 24 hour alarm service and a close community of neighbours. The work to Riversdale Court included brand new kitchens, bathrooms and carpets and new painting throughout. The scheme has a communal lounge for all residents and is set in landscaped gardens, with views of the River Soar and Watermead Park. Birstall Borough Cllr David Gaskell said: “I have been actively involved with Riversdale Court since I became a borough councillor. We did not anticipate, in these difficult financial times, that a modernisation of such massive proportions would be found but once it was mooted
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we have tried to ensure that it was completed as soon as possible. We are delighted with the outcome. “It goes to show what can be done to secure first class accommodation for the use of older people by prudent use of Council resources. The officers of Charnwood Borough Council and the council members are to be congratulated on their foresight in renovating Riversdale Court to such a high standard.” Anyone interested in the Riversdale flats, or other sheltered schemes, should register with the Council’s Choice Based Lettings service to apply. Call 01509 634567 or visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/housing Existing tenants can also request a transfer – up to £2,000 is available for tenants who downsize from a larger property to a flat.
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Spring bulbs for Wanlip FOUR HUNDRED daffodil bulbs planted along Wanlip Lane will flower for the first time next spring. Planted by Wanlip residents along the grass verge from the Wanlip sign towards Corner Wood, the bulbs were purchased with parish funds. Claire Myles, chair of Wanlip Parish
Meeting, helped to plant the bulbs. She said: “We hope to make it a friendlier place to travel through, bring a smile to people’s faces and did it because we care about our village.” Pics: Top (l-r) Jeff Twilton, Monica Walling, Ash Bahl, Claire Myles and Karen Twilton; Below: Liz Davison and Linda Stevens planting bulbs
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ANOTHER MERRY evening was had by members of Birstall and Wanlip WI on October 5 at Highcliffe School when ex midwife Liz Robson gave us an animated talk about her journey into wine making at her Kingfisher vineyard in Rothley. She brought examples of her wine and we enthusiastically tried them all. The talk gave us a much greater understanding of what to expect from an English wine and how to respect and judge its merits. We beat Groby in the second round of the Skittles Tournament 3-0 with top scorer Christine Siddons scoring 17 points. We now wait to see whom we meet next. Could this be our year? Talk is turning to Christmas again and we discussed how to decorate our Christmas tree for the Methodist Church at the end of November and our Christmas Dinner at the Red Lion in Rothley. We will have craft stalls at the Methodist churches Harrison Road on the 14th November and Birstall on the 28th. Bethan won the competition with her WI bloomers. November’s meeting on the 2nd is our AGM when we will choose our new committee and reflect on the past year. There will be a talk on gin by representatives of Hall Farm and the competition is a cocktail recipe. If you would like more details and photographs of our activities visit our new Facebook page. From Birstall & Wanlip WI
THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
NHW news
& crime report Fireworks, Neighbours and Pets We are approaching the time of year when it is traditional to celebrate festivals and events with fireworks. While these can be great fun for those taking part, they can also be a source of great annoyance to neighbours who are taken by surprise late at night. This is a particular problem for animals, who can never understand what is happening, and who can become very alarmed and distressed at loud explosions and other unexpected noises. Clearly, there has to be compromise and if you are planning to let off fireworks in your garden, it is always a good idea to let your neighbours know so that they can prepare themselves and their animals. It is also important to be aware of the law, since the penalties can be severe. • You cannot buy or use Category 2 and 3 (also known as Adult) fireworks if you are under eighteen. • You must not set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or any other public place. • It is a punishable offence for anyone to set off fireworks between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. • The exceptions to this are: Bonfire Night, when the cut off time is midnight; New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year when the cut off time is 1 a.m. • You can be fined up to £5000 and imprisoned for up to six months for selling or using fireworks illegally. You could also get an on-the-spot fine of £90. The next relevant dates are: Bonfire Night - 5th November; Diwali - 11th to 15th November; New Year’s Eve - 31st December; Chinese New Year - 8th February 2016. Birstall and Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch
www.villagewatch.co.uk 0116 267 6397
Crime Report : Birstall & Wanlip September 2015 Assaults 8, burglary dwelling 3, burglary non-dwelling 4, damage 4, damage to motor vehicle 8, public order 2, theft 5, theft cycle 1, theft from motor vehicle 3, theft of motor vehicle 2, theft from store 3
REPORTED CRIME has fallen slightly this month, mainly due to a decline in shoplifting and theft offences in general, however unfortunately we have once again seen a slight rise in the number of vehicles damaged. Several of these have had their wing mirrors broken off whilst parked on the road overnight and so I would ask that if you do need to leave your car on the road, that you consider folding the mirrors in if possible as this makes them more difficult to break off. The number of house burglaries has also fallen compared to last month which is obviously good news, although one burglary reported this month actually happened during the night whilst the occupants were asleep in bed. On this occasion entry had been gained through a door that had been left unlocked and so the message remains to ensure that you are keeping your property secure at all times to help prevent this from happening to you. The beat team has had cause to issue a
number of £30 Fixed Penalty Notices this month for parking and obstruction offences as we are seeing an increasing number of drivers parking both dangerously and inconsiderately, especially outside the local schools. While we appreciate that there are sometimes occasions when vehicles may need to park partly on the pavement, please ensure that if you do need to do this that you leave sufficient space for people in wheelchairs, mobility scooters or people with pushchairs to pass safely without having to walk into the road. We will continue to issue tickets if necessary as it would appear that previous warnings that have been issued have been ignored. On the subject of traffic, the beat team has also been out this month doing Road Safety talks at a number of local nurseries & reminding the children of the importance of being seen in order to remain safe. Please can I remind all residents that as the nights start to draw in again that you ensure young children are wearing brightly coloured or reflective clothing so that they stand out & that if your child cycles to school that they have working lights on their bikes in order to avoid them being involved in an accident. During October and November the team will be out conducting extra patrols in relation to Diwali, Halloween & Bonfire Night. Please can I urge anyone taking part in Halloween to be respectful to those who do not wish to take part & to remember that some can get very frightened by the whole experience. 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 Mark Butler and 6391 Fiona Lacey. NL60 – Birstall Police Office. http://www.leics.police.uk Tel: 0116 2677355 (Please note this is an advice line only – Please use 101 or 999 to report crime).
Planning P/15/2158/2: 108 Curzon Ave – single storey and two storey extensions to house and roof dormer to rear P/15/2106/2: 271B The Grange, Birstall Road – erection of single storey extension to rear of dwelling P/15/2093/2: 54 Firfield Ave – retrospective planning application for outbuilding to rear of dwelling P/15/2083/2: 6 Station Road – raising of roof, formation of first floor and extensions to front, sides and rear of building to form two storey dwelling P/15/2079/2: 12 Riverside Close – erection of a 2 storey extension to side and single storey extension to rear of dwelling P/15/2069/2: 18 Keswick Close – erection of single storey extension to side of dwelling P/15/2064/2: 64 Blenheim Road – erection of extension to side and rear of dwelling P/15/2011/2: Allotments, Loughborough Rd, Birstall – consultation from Leicester City Council. Access to allotments (LCC Ref.No.20151790) P/15/1985/2: Cliffe House, 9 Church Hill – erection of canopy to side & rear of dwelling and erection of garden wall and gates
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Cricket Corner BVCC HAD their annual end of season presentation evening on Saturday 17th October at Birstall United Football Club. There was much to celebrate after the 1st XI finished in 3rd place in Division 4 Central and the 2nd XI finished as runners up of Division 7 West and are now eligible for promotion. The presentation evening was well attended and was enjoyed by all. The Quiz run by Quizmaster ‘Hunty’ was again a huge success with the winning team ‘Prad’s bar flies’ being no surprise. The only change to the awards this season was that the player of the season is a cumulative ‘3-2-1’ point score voted by the players at the end of every match and has proved to be very accurate. 1st XI awards Player of the season – Kyle Thomas Batter of the season – Joshua Saye Bowler of the season – Kyle Thomas 2nd XI awards Player of the season – Ian Bartlett Batter of the season – Ian Bartlett Bowler of the season – Mark Forknall The annual ‘Duck’ award is given the player in the club who scores the most ducks (0 runs in an innings) in the club
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over the whole season and this year it went to George Ager. Thank you to everyone who has supported the club throughout the year, whether on or off the field and we really look forward to another fantastic season next year. An early reminder that pre season nets will begin in early January on a Wednesday evening at the ECB academy at Loughborough University. From Joshua Saye, BVCC
Pic: Presentation winners: (l-r) Mark Forknall, Joshua Saye, Kyle Thomas, Ian Bartkett. (Front) George Ager.
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18
THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
News from the churches Journalist wins award A season of remembrance Hallowe’en is an occasion much enjoyed by children (if not by all adults!) , but how many people know that the mischief-making of that night has developed, in modern times, from the ancient church festivals of All Saints on 1st November and All Souls on the 2nd? Both these “feasts” were commemorations of the departed and go back to the very earliest days of Christianity in this country. The antics of Hallowe’en, although having some origins in country customs of the past, are largely an invention of the 20th century. However, remembering lost loved ones in a special service continues to happen at St James in Birstall on November 1 at 3pm, when anyone who has been bereaved is invited to a short, quiet service at which candles are lit in memory of the departed. The annual British Legion Remembrance Day service takes place on the following Sunday, November 8 at 10am when, in company with representatives of the armed forces and community organisations, we remember those fallen in the service of their country. More dates for your diary There are a number of other events in the following weeks, which pave the way for the oncoming Christmas season. The St James Monday Group meets on Monday November 9 for a talk on Tudor Leicester and anyone interested (sorry, women only!) will be made welcome at 7.30pm in the Day Centre. On Sunday afternoon November 22, all quiz lovers are invited to the popular Quiz afternoon, with cream tea, taking place at 2.30pm in the Village Hall. Whatever the shops may be telling us in early November about “Christmas is coming” the real start to the season is on Advent Sunday, 29th November when the coming of the Christ child is celebrated with music and readings at 6pm at Wanlip church. The annual St Nicholas Fayre at Wanlip will take place on Saturday December 5 from 11.30am to 2pm with soup on offer at lunchtime. In the evening there will be a concert by the Glenfield Co-operative Ladies Choir in Wanlip Church at 7.30pm. Tickets are £7.50 including refreshments. On the next day, Sunday December 6 at 10am at St James, there will be the annual Christingle service, when everyone has a Christingle candle and money is raised for the work of the Children’s Society in caring for children in need. From Birstall Parish Churches
Methodist Christmas Festival The Methodist Church on Wanlip Lane looks forward to welcoming you to our Christmas Festival on Friday & Saturday November 27 & 28, we are open at 10am each day until 6pm Friday & 2pm Saturday. Under a theme of ‘White Christmas’ the church will be filled with about 50 different interpretations of the theme. The church is grateful for the creative skill of many Birstall folk, community organisations, and village businesses. To see these ‘creations’ of trees, displays, models and arrangements, you are invited to make a £1 donation for adults. Accompanied children are not expected to make any donation – and they may be able to meet Santa too! On Friday outside the church there will be a well-filled ‘Christmas Market’ which will include gifts, crafts, Christmas decorations, home-made cakes pastries & pies, jams, marmalades, chutneys & pickles. There will be a raffle & tombola. Hotdogs & Pancakes will be on sale too. On Saturday there will be a table-top sale in the main hall and whatever remains (if anything) from the Friday Christmas Market. The church Coffee-Shop will be open throughout with light lunches served between noon & 1.30pm. Funds are raised for the Methodist Church in Birstall and for ‘Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance’ It will be an opportunity to see the new ‘lighter’ entrance to the premises.
Walk-In-The-Light Project
Although the entrance is now open and in use, there are still a number of ‘snagging’ issues to be resolved. The glass entrance doors from the new entrance into the worship area are not working as was intended. In conjunction with the architect, door supplier and builder we hope to resolve this in due course. Eventually a pattern will be attached to the glass once the doors are working correctly. The Talents project made a 426.9% return on the original investment of the £10 notes that were handed out in February, raising £2049.13. Thanks to all who supported this scheme.
Volunteers Needed For Wednesday Lunch Club Extra helpers are needed, working on a 4 week rota basis. Meeters and Greeters, to welcome and collect the lunch money. Also Mini Bus escorts. This entails both patience & energy to collect members from their home and onto the Mini-bus and on arrival at church, accompanying them into the lounge & vice versa. Contact Janet 2671471 or Mary 2672606 if you can help. From Birstall Methodist Church
Harvest Report On October 11 we held our Harvest Service, when we were able to give thanks to God for all His provisions for us. Our collection that day was sent to MERF, for their work in providing spiritual and practical help to needy folk in the Middle East, North Africa and Asia.
Sunday Services In November, we have two visiting speakers. On the 1st we are to have a visit from Roop Chopra, whom we last heard speak about Christian work in NW India in January, and on the 15th we are to have ministry from Peter Thackeray (East Leake). All Sunday services start at 10.45am and are held in the Community Room at Highcliffe Primary School, Greengate Lane (LE4 3DL). Why not come along and join with us? You will receive a warm welcome. The service lasts about an hour and is followed by a cup of tea or coffee and time for a chat.
Looking ahead: Christmas Market and Carols At the beginning of December, on Friday 4th, there will be the usual Christmas Market in the Village Hall as part of the celebrations for switching on the Christmas lights. We will be having a stall to sell craft items and cards made by the people at the Lodge Trust at Market Overton, Rutland, together with calendars and Christmas books (mainly for children). The Trust provides Christian care for adults with learning difficulties, so we hope you will come and support this worthwhile charity. Our traditional Carol Service will be on December 13 at 10.45am. Please put these dates in your diaries/phones. For further information please ring 0116 2214883. From Anne Taylor, Birstall Independent Baptist Church
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A BIRSTALL journalist is celebrating winning one of the most prestigious awards available for agricultural journalists. Jonathan Wheeler, of Elmfield Avenue, Birstall, is a former agricultural correspondent of the Leicester Mercury, and press officer of the Royal Agricultural Society of England. He now works freelance and won the award for an article published by Farm Machinery Journal on a modern cattle building that incorporates a range of innovative design and equipment to improve cattle health and environmental performance. This year’s Keenan Award highlighted the use of new technology in farming and attracted a record 17 entries. But the judging panel, all other leading agricultural journalists, said Jonathan’s article was a clear winner.
Looking
Back
BEFORE THE Birstall Post and the Leicester Mercury reported on people and events in our village, earlier 19th century newspapers like the Leicester Journal and the Leicester Chronicle, both long defunct, carried news items about Birstall, then a much smaller place with a population below five hundred. Local historian, Mike Smith, has been researching these early papers and a monthly selection of the more interesting and amusing of these news items will be appearing in the Birstall Post. Treat to the Aged Poor On Saturday afternoon, through the liberality of Mrs John Burgess of Woodbine Cottage, the whole of the aged inhabitants of Birstall partook of a capital meat tea at the village school. After tea the old people were entertained with instrumental and vocal music provided by Mr J Paul of Leicester’s Theatre of Varieties, Mr Woodhead on concertina and piccolo solo. Fairy Bells. Mr Branston, trombone solo, Death of Nelson. Melodies from the Troubadour Quartet. Mr Humberstone, cornet solo. The orchestra rendered their selections with vigour and precision. Leicester Chronicle 21/2/1885 Workingmen’s Fete at Birstall On Wednesday Mr Brewin entertained the whole of his workforce to a rural fete at Birstall Hall. Upwards of thirty coaches, vans and other vehicles starting from the factory on Frog Island brought 400 workers to the party, exclusive of the many private parties attending. A capital brass band filled one wagon and there were shouts of ‘it’s like the coronation’, ‘Bradgate is nothing on this’ and ‘it’s the best do of the lot’. The splendid tea apparatus belonging to the Leicester Temperance Society ran on benches for many yards with plum cake and bread and butter. Some played cricket, some strolled the grounds, whilst others danced to the spirited band. In the evening after whizz bangs and rockets and several hearty cheers coaches and wagons took all back to where they had started in the morning. Leicester Mercury 27/7/1850
Doreen Forsyth from sponsors Keenan, a major Irish machinery manufacturer, said: “The judges complemented the article for being packed with innovation and concise information, including financial details, and making good use of quotes and comments. It described an innovative system that is of interest to a wide range of readers”. He was presented with the award, a certificate and £1,000 prize, at the Guild of Agricultural Journalists’ Harvest Lunch, held at the Stationers’ Hall in London. “It’s a great thrill to win such a major award ahead of such a large field, especially as the judges were all peers who I greatly respect”, says Jonathan. Pic: Jonathan Wheeler receives the award from Doreen Forsyth
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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
Bowls club news
Birstall tennis club
THE OUTDOOR bowls season finished last month and it’s been another successful one at Birstall Bowling Club.
BIRSTALL TENNIS Club held their 2015 club championships in September. Club spokesman Mark Dearden said: “It was a brilliant day with some exceptional tennis being played. Thanks to all players, members and supporters for making this a memorable event.” The results were:
Collectively, club members finished runners up in the Ladies National Triples Championships, won the Ladies County Triples and Fours, the Men’s County Triples and Two Wood Triples, the Parks Singles, Pairs and Senior Citizens Pairs. The club also won the County Greenwood Cup, the Parks Bramley Bowl and the Loughborough Monday Triples League Cup. Last month, many members headed to Mojacar, Spain for the club’s annual tour. Despite only winning one game out of four, an enjoyable time was had by all and 302 euro was raised during the week thanks to club members being fined for various misdemeanours. This amount also included a donation of 50 euro from the Cabrera club who played Birstall in one of the matches and also hosted a barbeque and karaoke evening. The money, when converted to sterling, will be donated to Prostate Cancer UK. The club competition finals took place in September and the results are below. Ladies Winners: Championship: Di Hartop, Runner Up: Angie Parkin Handicap: Janet Wildbore, Runner Up: Di Hartop Maiden: Cynthia Chapman, Runner Up: Mary France Three Wood: Madeline Stuart-Reid, Runner Up: Di Hartop Two Wood: Anne Boden, Runner Up: Lesley Powell Pairs: Barbara Mullins & Pa Walker, Runners Up: Chris Jarvis & Madeline-Stuart Reid Edith Smith Pairs: Hazel Andrews & Pa Walker, Runners Up: Deam Walker & Angie Parkin Fielding & Everitt Cups: Jan Berry, Runner Up: Janet Wildbore Men’s Winners: Championship: Andy Wye, Runner Up: John Hurst Handicap: Bill Alexander, Runner Up: Eric North Maiden: Eric North, Runner Up: Paul Jackson Three Wood: Dave Clarke, Runner Up: Barry Jarvis Two Wood: Geoff Richardson, Runner Up: Dave Clarke Pairs: Mick Barnacle & John Hurst, Runners Up: Martin Jones & Duncan Brown Club Night Cup: Brian Hancock Mixed Competition Winners: Club Open: Pa Walker, Runner Up: John Hurst Saunders Cup: Di & John Hurst, Runners Up:
The December issue of
THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Nov 28. The copy deadline is Nov 13.
ACCIDENT Witnesses Sought If you witnessed the accident between a silver Toyota and blue Mercedes at the Greengate Medical Centre on Tuesday 29th September at approximately 3.30pm please contact 0116 2672184
Jan Everitt & Andy Wye Adnett Cup: Pa Walker & Roger Wildbore, Runners Up: Velma Allen & John Eaton Sue Andrews Trophy: Mervyn King, Pam McMahon & Richard Smith, Runners Up: Di King, Di Hartop & John Walker
From Birstall Bowling Club
THE OUTDOOR bowls season has drawn to a close and on Birstall Road the St Margaret's Co-operative Bowls Club marked its closing day with a final get-together on a rainy Monday afternoon. Each year the club supports a charity at the president's choice and by one means or another collects funds for a worthy cause. This year we supported the Peter Le Marchant Trust which provides canal boat trips and holidays for disabled and the seriously ill of all ages. It has three boats which ply the waterways in the summer months. The club President Pat Allen said: “I am most impressed with this charity's work and it deserves to be better known. You cannot over estimate the value of what it does. These canal breaks really help people to take their minds off their troubles as they tune in to the slower place of life.” A cheque for just over £1300 was handed to Richard Teare, one of the trust's full time officers, who thanked the club for its generosity. For more details of the Peter Le Marchant Trust see www.peterlemarchanttrust.co.uk Pic: Richard Teare of the Peter Le Marchant Trust accepts a cheque for £1300 from club presidents Peter and Pat Allen
Vacant allotments BIRSTALL PARISH Council currently have vacant plots on their Meadow Lane site and the Greengate Lane site. If you are a resident of Birstall or Wanlip, you could have an immediate start for producing healthy delicious fruit and vegetables at a relatively low cost for your family” said a parish council spokesman. “New allotment holders find that they quickly develop new skills and knowledge and many plot holders see the development of their allotment as part of a positive lifestyle choice. “They are also a good way to make friends with people who share your interest in gardening, a great way to relax and unwind from the stresses of modern living and provide an excellent form of exercise for people of all ages and abilities.” If you are interested please telephone the Parish Council on 0116 2676191 or email: accounts@birstallpc.org.uk to arrange a viewing of one of the vacant plots for an immediate start.
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U8 Kyan Gohill undefeated in the round robin U9 Ajay Burton-Pyatt bt Amy Walpole 7-2 7-3 U16 Joe Collings bt Jake McLeary 6-3 7-5 U18 Kuljit Tara bt Sam Collings 6-4 6-3 Mens Singles: Connor Winterton bt Christian Berry 6-3 6-0 Ladies Singles: Rachel Chalmers bt Sarah Page 6-0 6-0 Mens Doubles: Christian Berry & Kuljit Tara bt Richard Freeman & Spencer Wesson 6-4 6-2 Ladies Doubles: Jenny Cooper & Sarah Page bt Audrey Preston & Marcia Merry 6-4 6-2 Mixed Doubles: Christian Berry & Sarah Page bt Rachel Chalmers & Kuljit Tara 6-3 6-2
The tennis club will remain active throughout autumn and winter with tennis being played every evening. The weekly timetable can be viewed at www..birstallwatermeadtennis.co.uk For any enquiries about joining the club, whatever your age or ability contact our club secretary Wendy Morley on 0116 2674844 Pics: from top: Under 8 & 9 champion: Kyan Gohil and Ajay Burton-Pyatt; Ladies champion: Rachel Chalmers; Mens champion: Connor Winterton
Oil spill in river WASTE ENGINE oil dumped in the River Soar in Birstall was cleaned up by the Environment Agency (EA). The oil spillage was spotted on Tuesday September 22 by members of the public who reported it to the EA. A mile long section of the river between Birstall and Thurmaston was affected. The EA used pads to soak up the oil and booms to stop it spreading. Officers attending the scene believe the incident was caused by someone illegally dumping waste engine oil.
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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2015
Birstall BAG’s cancer corner Lung Cancer Awareness Month November is officially Lung Cancer Awareness Month. This all started as Lung Cancer Awareness Day way back in 1995. As the lung cancer community and the lung cancer movement grew, the awareness activities increased and grew into Lung Cancer Awareness Month. During the month, many people throughout the country and the world come together for the lung cancer community. Events are held. Articles are written. Facebook statuses are updated. Videos are created and spread online. Proclamations are issued. Know the risks Lung cancer is the most common cancer in the world. In the UK, around 44,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. It is the most common cause of cancer death in the UK for both men and women. Everyone is at risk of developing lung cancer. Know the facts • It is known that smokers and ex-smokers have an increased risk of getting lung cancer. • One out of every seven people diagnosed each year have never smoked. • Passive smoking, or breathing
in other people's smoke, increases your risk, but not as much as smoking yourself. • Contact with chemicals found in the workplace or environment, such as asbestos, radon and diesel exhaust fumes may also lead to an increase in lung cancer. What should I look for? · A cough that doesn’t go away · Blood in your spit (phlegm) · Chest or shoulder pain · Feeling breathless for no reason · Chest infection(s) · Coughing up blood · Hoarseness in your voice · A cough you always have that changes or gets worse · unexplained tiredness or lack of energy · Weight loss that you can't understand What do I do if I am worried? Don't delay visiting your GP. It is most likely that this will be nothing serious and will put your mind at rest. If it is lung cancer, early diagnosis and treatment could save your life.
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For further information: www.cancerresearc huk.org and as always 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 Birstall BAG’s are establishing a Home Visiting Service in collaboration with LOROS and initially we are looking to recruit LOROS volunteers from the Birstall and surrounding area willing to support families in their own home in our community – for more information please contact Andrew Lowden andrewlowden@loros.co.uk tel 0116 2318470 Tickets for the Ceri Dupree evening are now completely sold out. If you have ordered tickets please collect and pay ASAP.
Small ads are 25p for the first 16 words. 17-32 words: 50p. Enclosing payment, post your ad to us or hand it in (inside an envelope) at Birstall library. Trade/business rates for small ads are 25p a word. You are liable for the trade/business rate if you are offering a service for which you are asking for payment, or if you are advertising new goods for sale. All text will be printed bold. Box outline £1 extra. Max 50 words. Phone numbers count as one word.
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The December issue of
THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Nov 28. The copy deadline is Nov 13.
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