Birstall Post (400) Nov 2016

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

NOVEMBER 2016

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 400

Smell from Wanlip BAD SMELLS from Wanlip’s sewage treatment works are getting worse, says a former Borough Councillor who has started a petition objecting to the pong.

“It’s an absolutely disgusting stench” says Simon Sansome, a former Lib Dem councillor for Birstall. “The Environmental Health department at Charnwood needs to take action against Severn Trent in Wanlip. The sewage smell is getting worse and affecting people in both Wanlip and Birstall.” allows the Great Central to retain the A spokesman for Severn Trent said: existing railway station building and “Given the nature of the everyday activiContinued on page 2 ties of a sewage treatment works there are occasions when there will be odours which can be affected by, for example, hot weather, but Severn Trent is committed to minimising such odours wherever possible.

“In the year to date we’ve had just four odour complaints at the sewage treatment works. We take these complaints and our responsibilities to our neighbours, extremely seriously and carry out a full investigation after receiving each one. In addition, we carry out a full smell assessment every four weeks regardless of whether we have received complaints.”

Also located at the Wanlip site is a composting facility run by Biffa. It treats organic waste extracted from wheelie bins. The composting process is carried

New museum: design revealed AN ARCHITECT has been chosen for the major new railway museum on the edge of Birstall.

A glass wall will allow visitors arriving by train to see into the museum and vice versa. The choice of this design also

Six architects bid for the £18million project, due to open in 2021, which will be built next to the GCR’s Leicester North station, off Red Hill island. WilkinsonEyre have been chosen - they are twice winners of the RIBA Stirling prize, designed the new Mary Rose museum in Portsmouth and are currently restoring Battersea power station.

A partnership between the GCR, the National Railway Museum and Leicester City Council, the museum, called Main Line, will tell the story of the GCR through a unique collection of locomotives, rolling stock, artefacts and objects from the national collection.

The WilkinsonEyre design will see three two storey exhibition halls constructed alongside Leicester North station.

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Continued on page 2

2 Smell

continued from page 1 out within sealed tanks where the waste is liquefied, heated and broken down by bacteria. The finished product, known as cake, is put back onto the land and used in agriculture.

The composting process also produces methane gas which is used to create Museum continued from page 1 platform, which volunteers had campaigned for, while allowing for future expansion. The GCR say it will also mean the project budget can be concentrated on the exhibitions and their educational benefits rather than remodelling the station area.

Andy Munro, the Chief Executive of the Great Central Railway, said: “This will be a museum for the whole of the city and the county and it was vital we consulted as widely as possible before choosing the winning design. There were several key factors to consider - would the new building be the right environment for the intended displays, was it iconic enough considering where it will sit on the city skyline and of course, does it fit with the projects budget? The museum team were set a hard task by such a high standard of shortlisted schemes, but we’re confident we have

bacteria, viruses and fungal spores.

They can trigger asthma or allergic reactions.

The Environment Agency says that the Wanlip site operates “in compliance with chosen the right one.” their environmenPaul Kirkman, Director of the Nation- tal permits, howeval Railway Museum, said: “We have a er by the nature number of irreplaceable locomotives of the combined which will go on display within the muse- operations odours um. Famous names like ‘Green Arrow’ have been noted and ‘Butler Henderson’ deserve to be offsite by Environshown off in a building that is just as ment Agency officiconic, but crucially has to be able to ers”. protect the exhibits too. The Wilkinson The EA would Eyre design provides the optimum condi- not permit a sewage treatment works or tions to display these important items anaerobic digester facility to be built from the National Collection within a within 250m of residential dwellings building of stunning visual presence.” because of the risk of exposure to bioThe GCR wants the museum to be a aerosols. landmark building which will be visible The Environmental Health team at from various points across the city. It Charnwood Borough Council say they will have a focus on education in sciare aware of the issue and are requestence, technology, engineering, arts and ing data from Severn Trent about their maths. monitoring.

The museum’s curator will be Roger To complain about the smell to CharnShelley, previously director of the Cresswood, they need to know when the smell well Heritage Trust in Derby. occurs, how long it lasts and the effect it

electricity.

Gases, bioaerosols and dust are hazards associated with sewage treatment and anaerobic digestion plants. The rotten eggs smell is hydrogen sulphide gas which can irritate the eyes and cause a cough or sore throat.

Bioaerosols are airborne particles that contain living organisms such as

Pic: Wanlip sewage treatment works

has on you. Call them on 01509 634636 or email env.health@charnwood.gov.uk To complain to Severn Trent, call them on 0800 783444.

Sign the petition at www.change.org (search for stop the stench).

Comments made by petitioners and on facebook: “I’m sick of the constant smell, I can’t open any windows in my house to let any fresh air in. It’s so strong some days you can taste it and it has made me physically sick on a few occasions.”

“I am sick to death of the vile stench that drifts over Birstall! Being woken up at 2am to close our windows because of this terrible smell is growing very old now and it’s about time something was done about it!”

“I’m sorry but if you can’t take the pong don’t buy a house next to a sewage plant, it’s not rocket science.”

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Fun run TAKE PART in a Santa fun run in Loughborough town centre on Sunday December 4.

Organised by Loughborough Rotary Club, last year 1430 Santas ran and walked the 5km course.

Over £500,000 has been raised for local and national charities in the eleven years that Rotary has been organising the event.

Leicester City Football Club and the Foxes Foundation will participate in the Santa Fun Run & Walk this year and entrants will be able to select red or blue Santa suits, and support a charity of their choice.

Sign up now on www.santa-funrun.co.uk

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2016

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P/16/2429/2: 641 Loughborough Road – proposed new porch P/16/2256/2: NatWest Bank, 659 Loughborough Road – installation of internally illuminated tablet sign above ATM machine P/16/2338/2: 1 Goscote Hall Road – erection of single storey extensions to side of dwelling P/16/2325/2: 483 Loughborough Road – erection of 2 storey extensions to side & rear of dwelling with Juliet balconies to rear, erection of new front entrance porch and bay windows, window alterations and single storey extension to rear P/16/2215/2: 26 Whiles Lane – erection of single storey porch extension to front of dwelling

Anti social behaviour on car park LOCAL POLICE have been asked to step up their response following complaints about antisocial behaviour on a Birstall car park.

Jean’s birthday surprise A BIRSTALL Women’s Group organised a surprise birthday party for one of their members in September.

Jean Gale (pictured) was 90 years old and her friends at Birstall Methodist Monday Women’s Group prepared the surprise for her.

Eileen Molesdale explains: “The group met early that evening and decorated the room with banners, scattered birthday bling on the tables and arranged flowers to give a real party atmosphere. Tables were laden with delicious food; savoury and sweet.

Lots of healthy salads and scrumptious cakes. And a 90th birthday cake was organised – although we couldn’t put 90 candles on the cake because of the fire risk!

“At 7.15 we lowered the lights as we knew Jean and her daughter-in-law were on their way. Jean thought there was no group meeting that night when she saw no lights on and was about to turn around and go out of the door when we all chorused ‘Happy birthday to You …’

“It was a very special happy occasion and you can see from the bright smile on Jean’s face that she really enjoyed the evening.”

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A few vehicles are parking up in the evenings on the top section of the Sibson Road car park and are attracting groups of young people.

PC Dave Jaeckels said: “they are playing music till the early hours and then discarding their take-away wrappers all over the floor before driving away.”

PC Jaeckels said there have been reports of cannabis being smoked, but the Police have not caught anyone there and that the young people have been polite when asked to keep the noise down and not drop litter.

He said: “Unfortunately we are unable to monitor it all the time and in the absence of any criminal offences being committed we are fairly limited in what we can do, other than speak to them

about their behaviour, which clearly doesn’t seem to be having the desired effect.”

The local police team have suggested that the Parish Council install a barrier between the upper and lower car parks which could be closed in the evenings.

Birstall Parish Council discussed the issue at its October meeting. Comment was made that erecting a barrier was not the right response and that the Police should deal with the problem before it gets worse. A suggestion was made that improving the CCTV coverage of the area would help as would signs indicating the car park was monitored

by CCTV. The council agreed that the Police be asked to prioritise the problem utilising plain clothes officers if necessary and

Pic: the Sibson Road car park

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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2016

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No Abbey Last minute course cancellation Lane bus service A PETITION signed by 400 people has failed to persuade a local bus operator to change its route.

John Wain of Riversdale Close, Birstall organised the petition – he would like to see a service from Birstall that goes into Leicester via Abbey Lane for residents who wish to shop at Asda, Aldi, B&Q, the Range and Halfords.

“I think 99 per cent of Birstall people would agree” said Mr Wain, who sent his petition to Centrebus requesting they re-route their service 22A/22B. Centrebus say their board and management team considered the proposal.

Commercial Manager Bijel Mistry said: “Unfortunately, after discussing the proposal, the team have decided that we will not be reverting back to serving Abbey Lane on the route. The reason for this is that operating via Loughborough Road and Melton Road is a quicker route than operating via Abbey Lane.

This route allows us to offer a 20 minute frequency during the peak and a 15 minute frequency during the off peak . If we were to re-route the 22s via Abbey Lane, this frequency would be lost, which we feel would be detrimental to the service as a whole.

“Our own passenger number figures for the services also show that since the route was changed in September 2013 to operate via Loughborough Road and Melton Road, patronage on the services has increased. We appreciate the time and effort that the resident has taken to organise the petition and make contact with us, however as the service is a commercial route, it is ultimately the company’s decision as to whether or not we proceed with the request. After much deliberation and analysis of our own passenger data, it was decided that unfortunately we would not be taking the request any further on this occasion.”

Mr Wain said: “I don’t think their decision makes sense, they would be a lot better off if they used the Abbey Lane route. I’d urge Birstall residents who would like them to change their minds to contact Centrebus directly.”

SOME A-LEVEL courses at the Cedars Academy were cancelled on the first day of term in September, when it was discovered not enough students had applied to study them.

Students were advised to choose alternative courses or were helped to find another college. One parent described the situation as “a disgrace”, demanding to know how it had been allowed to happen.

Headteacher Jason Smith said: “At the beginning of term due to very small numbers applying for A Level Geography, History and Computer Science these

Donation to Gunns’ gym THE TEAM at Walkers Sausage Company, part of Samworth Brothers, have given a £3,397 donation to Gunns’ Community Gym in Birstall.

A giant cheque was presented to Carl Gunns founder of the gym by members of the Walkers Sausage team.

“We are delighted to be supporting Carl and his team” said Sorren Atherton, Walkers Sausage Co Production Director. “The gym is local to us and has done so much fantastic work over many years giving young people in the area a place to enjoy sport. It is a great resource in the area and gets young people of all ages involved in doing something positive in their spare time. It is also great to see the range of ages that are catered for in the club activity. There is something for everyone and it is so great for youngsters in the local area. We are so pleased as a business to be supporting the gym.”

Carl Gunns said: “Samworth Brothers have been good to us over the years and this donation is fantastic”.

The Walkers Sausage Team raised the £3000 donated through food sales to staff at its Cobden Street site. A charity run with members of the Gunns Community Gym also took place and raised £397.

The gym also received a £5000 Samworth Brothers Sports Opportunity award in 2014.

Pic: (l-r) Carl Gunns, Jerry Holly, James Bramley, Craig Bucknall, J P Lee and Sorren Atherton & (kneeling) Caleb & Logan Acton

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courses were cut in Year 12. The Cedars inconvenienced by these changes.”

Academy has a small Post 16 provision, The cost of teaching an A-level course one of the advantages is students are can be covered without a loss when taught in small classes. classes have around 18 However we have to have a students. The Cedars Acadecertain minimum amount my had notified students of pupils to make courses last year that courses viable. We ensured the would be cut if less than small number of students 10 joined them. affected by withdrawing Students have the right these subjects either chose to hold open more than alternative courses or for one place in different coltwo students who were leges until the first day of supported to secure a term, so it is never clear how many pupils will be on place at a different 6th form where they could Pic: Headteacher Jason Smith courses until the term starts as some will choose study their chosen subjects. another college at the last minute.

I would like to sincerely apologise to any students and their parents who were

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Students raise funds From Birstall to Italy for African trip for runner Kerrie

THREE STUDENTS at the Cedars Academy have organised fundraising activities for a four week trip to Africa.

Rhea Bharadwa (15), Ella Fox (15) and John Todd (15) will be travelling to Tanzania with Camps International in summer of 2018.

During their stay they will be involved in voluntary work at local schools and participate in wildlife conservation projects.

Rhea said: “I’m looking forward to seeing the positive results from the project work we do and helping to create smiles on the faces of people that have so little, and that we

take for granted.”

The three students organised an art and craft fair in Sileby to raise funds and another is planed for November 26 at Birstall Methodist Church from 10-2pm.

Businesses that have offered support include Tesco, Sharmilee on Belgrave Road and the Co-op in Birstall, where the students will be bag packing for donations from shoppers.

Pic: Rhea Bharadwa, Ella Fox and John Todd

BIRSTALL RUNNER Kerrie Wilmot-Green completed the Folingo half marathon in Italy and was the first British person to compete in the race.

Kerrie (pictured) won her age category which was a prize of wine and spaghetti. Her time was 1hr 52 mins and everyone was interested in her running vest because it had ‘Leicester’ written on the back.

Birstall’s Running Club Tim Tickner continues to

compete in half marathons and has recently ran the Ipswich half marathon finishing 3rd in a time of 1hr 20mins.

He was 119th out of 75,000 in a time of 1hr 17mins at the Great North Run. Another Birstall runner Steve Hickingbottom has recently ran 27 miles with the amazing Ben Smith who has just ran 401 marathons in 401 consecutive days. Also Steve ran a PB at Chester marathon in a time of 3 hours and 36 minutes.

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Wizard exhibition A MAGICAL spell will be cast over Charnwood Museum with the arrival of a new Harry Potter exhibition.

The display opened in October and runs until January 8. It features illustrations of ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’, which has been reimagined by illustrator Jim Kay. His artwork has been published in a new illustrated edition of the book which was released last year. The display will feature original work including sketches, oils and digital prints.

There will also be a variety of merchandise available to buy, from copies of the illustrated book to Harry Potter soft toys and stationary.

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2016

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Lilly’s new look FIVE YEAR old Lilly Smethurst has had her long hair cut off to donate it to a cancer charity.

Lilly, from Stonehill Avenue, had her hair cut and was given a new, shorter style at Lanza hairdressers in Sileby.

“My teacher won’t recognise me, she

will think I’m a new girl” said Lilly, when she saw her new style.

Mum Amy said: “Lilly and I love her new hair style, it really suits her. The

Woodlands’ party A BIRSTALL nursery celebrated its anniversary with a party.

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2016

A spokesman said: “Woodlands Day Nursery has been providing high quality care to the children and families of Birstall and surrounding areas for 14 years. To celebrate we had a Nursery birthday party at Birstall Village Hall where our children, aged 0-5 years enjoyed a party with a bouncy castle, dancing and an entertainer, followed by a party tea.

“We were delighted to have celebrated this with many of our parents and families who joined us, there was lots of sun, smiles and laughter. The children all got involved decorating cakes, making banners and cards for the party.”

Pics: Lilly before and after her haircut

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Little Princess Trust is an amazing charity that helps poorly children feel as normal as possible while going through hard times.”

The charity makes wigs from donated hair for children undergoing treatment for cancer.

Amy has also set up a gofundme page to collect donations for the charity which has raised more than £400. www.gofundme.com/2aax9wqs

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Birstall bakers rise to challenge

THE FLOUR dusting has settled on 2016's Great Birstall Bake Off and with 44 entries and a great array of prizes up for grabs, the event, held at the White Horse, has been hailed a success by the organisers.

Lilly Chamberlain

Joshua Smalley

Gwen Large with Beccy Kay

“All categories were superbly supported, with both genders and all ages competing for the most prestigious prize in Birstall’s bakery calendar” said Charlotte Foy from the White Horse. “The judging panel were astounded by the selection, in particular the ‘Under 16’ entries which were even more creative than ever.”

The Bake off competition was only the start, with all the entries being sold to raise money for the Macmillan Cancer Supports world largest coffee morning. The cakes were sold on the morning of Sunday September 25 in the garden of the White Horse in Birstall. The weather was fair and the coffee and cake flew out and so far £940 has been raised.

“The carthorse themed raffle stand was also a grand success and bunting helped to create a wonderfully rustic British village aesthetic, with an excellent selection of prizes with a delicious cake from David North at Rothley and beautiful flowers from Lilly and Grace to name only two” said Charlotte.

This year there was also a bouncy castle, face painting, nail bar and temporary tattoos for the children and some Sunday morning Jazz was added to the event which added to the ambience and fun of the day.

The organisers wish to thank the following for their donations: Amy Harrison - Graphic Designer, Kaines Castles, Hannahs, Glenwood's, Café on the Corner, North's Delicatessen, Stonehurst Farm, Little Red Deli, Aroma Spice, Platform Café, Tesco, Co-Op, Boots, Platform Café at Greenacres, Wilkinson's, Fusion Leisure Centres, Lilly and Grace, Shish Go Mangel, BeBeau, Dining Room and Ma’s Kitchen. Also to Brakes, Trust Inns, and Matthew Clarke, White Horse Suppliers.

Special thanks also to the judging panel: Allen’s Family Bakery, Mary Goodman, Margaret Hoskins from the WI, past winners Jacqueline and Charlotte Abela, Gill Roach, John Tointon, Alice Keeshan, Elliot and Pauline Schonveld as well as the White Horse Chefs Charlotte Foy and Beccy Kay would like to say a huge thank you to everybody who took part, those who generously donated their baking and to everyone who came on the Sunday.

“Watch this space and our new Facebook page for details of 2017's Great Birstall Bake Off, but until then - keep baking!” said Charlotte.

Up and coming White Horse: Birstall BAGS meal Monday December 5th – Contact Birstall Bags for details.

Full Winners List: Cupcake / Tray bake – Alice Hill – Pamper Hamper Biscuit – Lilly Chamberlain – Baking Hamper Best Decorated – Kyan and Tia Gohill – Stonehurst Farm Family pass Best Under 16 – Lizzy Keeshan – Chocolate Centre Piece Best Cake – Urvashi Patel – Duo of prosecco Best Bread – Joshua Smalley – Duo of Takeaways and Leisure pass Best ‘Free From’ – Gwen Large – Deli treats basket Best Savoury – Erin Schoneveld – Baking Hamper Sweet Pastry – Emma Sillet 3 Course meal for 2 Birstall’s Best Baker – Meg Dillenger - £100 John Lewis Voucher

Alice Hill

Erin Schoneveld Elliot Schoneveld

Kyan and Tia Gohill Lizzy Keeshan

Urvashi Patel

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2016

Meg Dillenger

Parish council notes A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on October 10.

It was reported that Geoff Green has resigned.

County Councillor Iain Bentley said he was pleased that the planning permission for the Hallam Fields school had been approved. The new bus shelter he is providing on Wanlip Lane will be ready by the end of the week, he said.

The council has recently appointed an enforcement officer and a councillor requested a report on their activities to date, particularly in respect of the dog byelaws.

Councillors discussed reported incidents of antisocial behaviour on the Sibson Road car park. Several vehicles are parking up and the occupants are making noise and dropping litter.

It was agreed that the police be asked to prioritise the matter utilising plain clothes officers if necessary, that costs be obtained for improving CCTV coverage of the area, and that the car park remain open in the evenings.

PCSO Mo Musa reported there had been a significant increase in damage to motor vehicles.

It was reported that the contractor chosen to install the 2016 Christmas tree had sent in a revised quote after they had seen images of the site. Because of the slope, height of the area and surrounding obstacles they would need a crane to lift the tree into place, increasing the total cost from £2991 to £3998.

Councillors expressed their disappointment with the situation. Comment was made that the firm should have thoroughly inspected the site before submitting their original quote. In view of the short notice and that the revised costs were lower than other quotes received, it was agreed to pay £3998 for the installation and removal of a 20 foot Norway Spruce, with lights and decorations.

It was reported that the Village Hall clock will be repaired by the manufacturers as it is not keeping time.

It was reported that the County Council will be repairing pot holes on Front Street on November 21.

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2016

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Cub scouts have splashing time BIRSTALL CUB Scouts took part in a “Splash Day” at the Outdoor pursuit centre in September.

“With their lunches packed, drinks on tap and an early start they were ready for anything” said leader Ged Sessions.

After building the shelter to last them the day they were straight out onto the water in a variety of craft, ranging from kayaks and canoes to bell-boats and narrow boats.

Some of the Cubs even had to build

their own raft out of wood, barrels and rope, while others could just step aboard a narrowboat where they had the chance to work the throttle and steer it down the river.

They finished the morning by jumping in the river followed by a shower and quick change of clothes.

After a picnic lunch and hot drinks they were ready for the land based activities with climbing, bouldering, abseiling, shooting and archery to keep them busy.

Ged said: “By the end of the afternoon they were tiring and ready to go home,

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“They all had a great day, having earned a number of water activity badges along the way and can’t wait for the next adventure.”

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Elshaw, My Guide Ambassador, on 07717815579 or e mail me on Jackie.elshaw@guidedogs.org.uk Jackie Elshaw

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

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There are two training sessions which are interesting and great fun. The first gives you the skills to safely and confidently guide a person. The second deals with the knowledge, boundaries and safeguarding around delivering My Guide to a service user. Each session lasts around 2 to 3 hours. When the training is completed you will receive a Certificate endorsed by Vision 2020.

For further information about how you can get involved please contact me, Jackie

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those people who attended my Civic Service on Sunday 11th September 2016. I would particularly like to thank the Rector Rev. Vince Jupp, the Assistant Curate Rev. Anne Crosby and my Chaplin, Mr Gary Lee for their involvement both in the preparation for the service and in the service itself. The Mayoress and I were very moved by it all.

A particular thanks to both to the Riverside School Choir and the St. James’ Community Gospel Choir for their musical inputs, they were magnificent and were very much in keeping with the whole ceremony.

The money raised in the collection has been divided between the Church of St James the Great and my two chosen charities which are the Birstall Playgroup for Children with Special Needs and the Charnwood Branch of Cancer Research. Both are local charities in so far as the children’s group meet at Birstall Methodist Church and Charnwood Branch of Cancer Research send all their donations to the Oncology Unit at the Leicester Royal Infirmary.

Should anyone wish to donate further to my charities they can do so by contacting The Office of the Mayor of Charnwood, Southfields Road, Loughborough LE11 2TX or by emailing mayor@charnwood.gov.uk .

Cllr. David Gaskell (Mayor)

Thanks A huge thank you goes out to all you lovely friends, family and customers who helped us beat last year’s fundraising event.

We held a Macmillan Coffee Morning at Anne-El-Maria and raised an amazing grand total of £897. A big thank you to Christine McGreal and Elena Morelli who both spent the day with us to give us a helping hand.

Thank you for all the raffle prizes that got donated by family, friends and local businesses including Vintage Ink, SaabBond Street and RT’s Café.

This event would not have been successful without you all, so thank you to each

and every one of you that shared the day with us, donated cakes, purchased raffle tickets and donated prizes.

We are so overwhelmed with the amount raised this year.

Thank you once again.

Giovanna, Sue, Maria and Lisa at Anne-El-Maria

Thanks Many thanks to the couple from Birch Tree Avenue who stopped in their car, Barry from Beechfield Avenue, the family on Loughborough Road who bought out a chair and cushion, and the young couple who very kindly went to alert my daughter when I fell over on the Loughborough Road. You were all very kind. Once again, thank you.

Anne

Thanks Birstall Quilters thank all those who attended the Coffee Morning on Saturday October 1 and helped us to raise the grand sum of £673.10. The quilt was won by P Iredale. Other prizewinners were J Kinchin, P Carter, J Hendice, J Aylwin, E Virgin, J Stevens for A N Other, J Bradwell. Our charity this year is Heartlink Children’s Charity.

Christine Hewson

Thanks To whom it may concern, I wish to say thank you on behalf of myself and my family for the friendship and the support you have given to us over the last 4½ years for my husband Peter Lewin who passed peacefully away on August 25.

We thank you for all the many cards of condolences with messages of thoughts and memories you have of Peter which we will treasure always.

Also for the support for George Hythe House, Beaumont Leys for the minibus fund which is still ongoing and with the donations you have given which will ensure other residents will still be enjoying wonderful organised outings.

Once again on behalf of myself and my family thank you for your friendship and support.

Pat Lewin and all the families

Heart condition My lady friend died of a heart condition two years ago, I have a special interest in heart conditions. So, earlier in this last week I went to one of the ‘Marvellous Medicine’ talks at the General Hospital; the subject was sudden death caused by a heart failure when young people are exercising. It appears that this condition may be hereditary.

Following an introductory talk participants were allowed to practice artificial respiration, and the use of defi-

brillators was demonstrated.

This left me with the question as I came away from the talk – where were the defibrillators in Birstall? This question was re-enforced when I subsequently heard that certain makes of defibrillator did not function. I enquired at the parish offices and was assured that they had three machines, all of which were tested regularly and functioned perfectly.

My next question must be, therefore, do the good people of Birstall know where they are, should they be confronted with an emergency?

Yesterday the subject of heart health came up again at a meeting I attended. As many of your readers will know, the Glenfield hospital children’s heart team is once more threatened with closure because when compared with the arbitrary standard the N.H.S. has decided it is not doing enough work to justify its existence. So once more children are threatened with being moved all over the country for the convenience of bureaucracy. Is this the sort of Health service we want? If not, I understand there is to be a demonstration (which will probably be over by the time this is printed) and there is an on-line petition for those who have less time and energy to spare.

It may all be too late for Eileen, but.....

Dr D A C McNeil (Ph.D.)

Bad parking As it was a nice day on Saturday I walked with my grandson down to the village. What a flagrant disregard to the parking restrictions particularly outside Tesco. It clearly depicts the parking restrictions with double yellow lines however I watched mainly young people park up right outside the store without any consideration to the buses that need to stop there or indeed when larger vehicles need to turn into Sibson Road from the A6. It is sheer laziness on their behalf. Their vehicles are at increased risk of being hit by traffic trying to access Sibson Road but they seem not to think of that when it means they can park wherever they wish without a thought for anyone else.

Again, mostly young people who are able to walk park on the pavement outside the dentists, not thinking of causing issues to people with prams and the elderly who are not as mobile as they are. One of these days someone is going to be injured by this thoughtless parking.

I also watched an elderly gentleman park up outside Bains in the parking bay, he struggled to walk to the chip shop and could easily and rightly have used the disabled parking bay outside the chip shop.

However, again a young couple parked in the disabled slot and went into the chip shop. In the next parking bays outside Age UK etc there were plenty of spaces, but they choose to get as close as possible

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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2016

YOUR SAY...

10

without a thought for others.

One day, you or a member of your family will not be able to walk as far as you can at present, what would you think if someone had parked needlessly in the disabled space you require just to get to the shop?

I understand that human nature is that they cut corners and flout laws just to get close to where they want to go as quickly as possible, but can we have more policing in this area catching these thoughtless people before we have a serious injury or worse?

Name & Address supplied

Congestion Re A6/Greengate Lane Junction: prior to retiring five years ago, I used this junction five days a week during the "peak time" of 8.00-8.30am for the previous 23 years.

Fortunately I only now need to use it during this period once a week and have great sympathy for those who have to use it every working day.

Trying to get out of Greengate Lane whether to turn left or right is very frustrating, with the southbound A6 traffic blocking the junction. The traffic lights change and the Greengate Lane traffic hardly moves, sometimes not at all. The resulting tailbacks extend as far as Ambergate Drive and beyond, and there's no point trying the Greengate Lane/Thurcaston Road junction as those tailbacks extend as far as the railway bridge/cemetery.

With the continued and proposed developments along the A6 corridor this situation will only get worse, and I am surprised there have been very few comments in the Birstall Post about this problem.

What is obviously required is a " keep clear" yellow block at this junction and I have previously emailed the County Council's Traffic Management Department about this. They have acknowledged and are looking into the matter but cannot give an accurate timescale for a response "as officers may need to attend the site and make observations for a period of time". In the meantime if other readers/residents have similar experiences and views then no doubt they could contact the County Council as well.

Gates Estate Resident

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2016

Local concerns Most people know a few years back, while a councillor for Birstall Wanlip ward, I suffered a life changing spinal injury which has left me in a wheelchair. The reason I mention this is because of my injury and the change in my situation I didn't know if I would ever stand for public office again. But after speaking with a number of people in Birstall including friends, family and people who still call me for advise and information I found myself facing a difficult decision. I came to the conclusion that nothing can be more difficult then learning to sit up and learning to walk again (granted only a few meters).

The support I've received has been overwhelming.

One of the main reasons for my decision to stand for election this May is because Birstall has become so unrepresented on local issues.

The major issue effecting Birstall currently is the 1600 homes being built on the A6.

This is going to effect every villager. It will have a major impact on roads, house prices, school places, and everything else you can think of.

The other concern I have is health issues around the development because of

the smell coming from Seven Trent Water relating to people with breathing difficulties.

This proposed site includes community centres, allotments, a traveller site and other community services and the person who should keep a close eye on the development is your local Councillor. So when issues do pop up, and they will, the local Councillor can report the issue to the council but this development is different. Birstall's County Councillor has declared a financial interest and so can't be in the room when major decisions are being made or even discussed.

This is the largest development in a generation for Birstall and our most senior politician who also sits on the planning committee can't talk about it, can't be in the same room and can't have discussions with residents of Birstall about their concerns. So basically Birstall Conservative councillor can't do the job he was elected to do.

But the issues for Birstall's Councillors don't stop there. I recently put in a freedom of information request to Charnwood Borough Council regarding Councillor Shergil. I was directed to a number links and looking at the information recorded by Charnwood Borough Council it appears that Councillor Shergil, who resigned from Birstall Parish Council months ago for personal reasons, has not been a Borough council meeting for getting on 9 months and has still claimed her allowance totalling almost £4000.

This mean Birstall is under represented in the village when we are having a major development built on our doorstep.

When I became injured I was bed bound for 6 months and missed a lot of meetings but I was in full contact with Charnwood Borough Council, I gave my seat on the planning committee to an independent councillor and still managed to get out news letters and sent out 2500 Christmas messages to every home in Birstall Wanlip Ward. There has been little, or no, information from Birstall Councillors since the election and I can almost promise that you won't until election time. However, unless the local Conservatives choose another candidate you won't receive any information from the candidate about the development.

I was only a Councillor for a short time but I became the Councillor who loves petitions and I have to say I do.

The reason for this is at every council meeting up and down the country before the meeting begins the council asks for petitions. If no petition is created officers wont necessarily investigate an issue and so that is the reason I love petitions as the issue gets investigated which might otherwise be ignored.

I also got a number of things done, they maybe small but have an impact. I got the Parish Council to install Grit Bins, got dog and waste bins installed, got 3 bus shelters installed on Loughborough Road, got a post box installed, got local businesses to donate vandalised benches in Watermead, set up

Stoves Gas Fires Fireplaces Installation Service Service & Maintenance Visit our showroom at 2a Wanlip Avenue LE4 4JP 0116 2676601 www.mdwfireplaces.co.uk

Birstall Car Boot sale using my councillor allowance which raised hundreds of pounds for the school, got extra safety rails installed outside Riverside, also doing case work and putting our regular news letters, while raising political awareness in Birstall.

I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate Birstall Parish Council on replacing the Christmas tree, saving thousand of pounds. I really don't like having disagreements with anyone and we disagree on a lot of issues and how they operate but we all have the best interest of Birstall at heart.

I also offer my congratulations to Christine Howe she managed to raise awareness and got hundreds of signatures for a bus shelter on Wanlip Lane. This issue was raised a long time ago but thanks to Christine looks like it's being concluded with a new bus shelter.

Finally I would like to finish with saying that being a Councillor is not about having a title, some people see it as a bit pompous but for me being a Councillor is about public service. I have been a public servant most of my adult life first in Housing then Social Services. A Councillors role is about leading the community, being it spokesperson, championing campaigns, representing residents' views at council meetings and being a point of contact.

I may not be a Councillor currently but I still believe we have a duty to do the right thing and so there are a few active petitions online at change.org. The first is to stop the 1600 homes, the other STOP THE STENCH campaign regarding Seven Trent Water.

Please can I ask you to visit Change.org and support these campaigns and once I have enough signatures I will present them to the relevant councils.

Thank you for you time and I hope you will support me in Mays County Council elections.

Simon Sansome

Thanks Thank you to all the readers for letting me have their used stamps and foreign money.

REX BRISLAND

Happy Birthday Singer, Guitarist, Poet, Folk Legend Thinking of you always, love Shelagh

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New play equipment A NEW piece of play equipment has been installed on the Harrowgate Drive playing field.

The £23,618 trim-trail has been provided by Birstall Parish Council.

“We are very pleased with the outcome and hope it brings a lot of enjoyment to the children of Birstall” said a council spokesperson.

The Parish Council has also installed a £10,000 zip wire on the Meadow Lane playing field.

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11

Noticeboard all details printed free Birstall & District Art Society Tuesday, November 8 at 6.30pm for a 7pm start You are invited to join us at the Palmer Tomkinson Centre at The Cedars Academy, Wanlip Road, Birstall LE4 4GH to watch professional artist, Wendy Darker, demonstrate her skill at painting ‘Farm Animals’ using acrylics. Come along and see if you will be inspired to try your hand at this wonderful and fulfilling hobby. Demonstration to end at 9pm. Members £1, Guests £3. Free raffle. Ample parking and wheelchair access.

St James Monday Group

Coffee Morning Saturday December 10 10am-12noon St James Church, Church Hill, Birstall Mince pies, Christmas arrangements, raffle and a sales table for medical detection dogs

Silver Liners Line Dancing New Line Dance class for beginners!

Tuesdays 7-7.45pm, £3 Intermediate 7.45-9.30, £4 The Co-op Sports & Social Club, Birstall Road, Birstall LE4 4DE Come and join us!

For more info: Jan, 07725441906, Deb, 07920260881 An evening of fun with the Anne Hughes’

Singing for Fun Choir & talented young soloists A charity fundraiser in aid of TWENTY TWENTY, Melanoma UK and Rotary charities Sunday December 4 at 7.30pm Hodson Hall, Burton Walks Loughborough LE11 2DU Tickets £9 on the door or visit www.beaconrotary.org Singing for Fun is singing group that doesn’t take itself too seriously and yet still reaches really high standards of choral singing.

It is led by the talented and charismatic Anne Hughes. Its concerts always include a varied mix of show tunes, classical and popular songs,

something with a bit of humour and always the chance for audience participation.

The Singing for Fun choir, who always deliver a warm-hearted and fun performance, will be joined by really talented young local soloists.

There will be carols and the chance to join in. and there will be a bar!

You will leave in a happy frame of mind, though very possibly with an ear-worm or two!

Barrow Youth Theatre presents

Honk!

The Disney Junior Musical Friday & Saturday, Nov 18 & 19 Evening performances start at 7pm and a matinee on Sat at 2pm.

All performances will take place at Humphrey Perkins Community Centre, Cotes Road, Barrow upon Soar LE12 8JU. Ticket prices £8, concessions £6 with a family ticket (2+2) at £24 and they can be bought by Paypal on www.busca.org.uk or from the box office on 07718 153117 Centre Stage visits Barrow with

‘Travelling by Tuba’ Friday November 25 at 7.30pm at Humphrey Perkins Community Centre, Cotes Road LE12 8JU Tickets £11, £10 (pre-booked), £10 concessions (£9 pre-booked) & children U16 £6 (£5 pre-booked) They can be bought by Paypal from www.busca.org.uk or from the box office on 07718 153117 Chris Cranham (tuba) and Stewart Death (piano) are a unique duo who perform stunning innovative shows, definitely not just a tuba recital.

With a great array of wind and brass instruments they are irrepressible entertainers who communicate with their audiences to provide a brilliant evening’s entertainment.

Councillor Surgery Last Sat of every month 10am to 12noon 10 Sibson Road, Old Council Office Talk to your District & County Councillors to discuss any issue of local concern

Birstall 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 dwoods1@sky.com or Bob 07927 346640 Web site – www.birstallrc.org.uk

Loughborough Fair is back for its 795th year, bringing attractions for all the family to enjoy.

Popular attractions will include the Star Flyer, one of the tallest of its kind in Europe. It will be one of 20 massive rides that will take over the town centre, along with smaller attractions and stalls.

Location: Market Place Fair opening times: Wed, November 9 – 6pm to 11pm Thur, November 10 – 12pm to 11pm Fri, November 11– 11am to 11pm Sat, November 12 – 11am to 11pm

Christmas Vintage Tea Party & Handmade Craft Fair Birstall Methodist Church Saturday 10th December from 10am-2pm

A vintage tea party with lots of tasty treats, pickles, bakes and sweets.

Handmade decorations and gifts handcrafted with wood, fabric and paper. Vintage home wares and shabby chic up do's! Textile wears and beautiful jewellery. Fragrant handmade candles and plenty more!

Visit Facebook: Christmas Vintage Tea Party and Handmade Craft Fair -Birstall Methodist Church Contact: lettersandstitch@gmail.com 07811069007

Look Out for Santa During December Wreake Valley Rotary Club’s Santa Sleigh will be visiting your area.

This is part of Santa’s yearly collection for charity, including many local causes.

Please come out and say hello to him. Details of Santa’s route can be found at www.wreakevalleyrotary.org.uk. He will be visiting weather permitting!

Birstall & District Art Society November 5, 6, 7

Annual Exhibition Village Hall, Birstall Road, Leicester, LE4 4DH Open Sat & Sun, 9.30am-5pm; Mon, 9.30-1pm Free admission , wheelchair access, refreshments, free parking to the rear of the village hall Visit: www.badas.co.uk

200 Club Winners 1st Mrs S Harrison 2nd Mrs S Palahey 3rd Mrs J Bailey 4th Mr G Heath

Christmas Bazaar Saturday 10th December 10-2 pm

Roy Morris Plumbing and Heating Installation, Upgrades & Servicing Of Gas Cookers, Boilers and Fires

Servicing of Boilers £35 General plumbing, shower & bathroom installs. Tiling & electrical work also undertaken

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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2016

12

St Theresa's Church Hall Stalls to include Raffle, Tombola, Cakes, Crafts Soup and a roll, teas and coffee , Christmas stall plus others.

Do come and join us St Patricks Church, Beaumont Leys Lane

Christmas Bazaar Saturday 19th November 10.301.30pm Children, come and meet Father Christmas before he gets very busy and receive a gift.

Festive stalls, cakes, gifts, Franks famous bottle stall, chocolate tombola, toys and lots, lots more.

Refreshments available including hot turkey rolls, mulled wine, Irish coffee, mince pies, fruit punch Bar open, live Christmas music.

All welcome, Free entry

Birstall Flower Club Christmas Workshop – make your own Christmas door wreath.

Wednesday 7th December, Birstall Village Hall 7-9pm Cost : £7.50 or £15 (to include a 12” oasis wreath ring and all foliage) Tickets : Sylvia 0116 2674206 or Mary 07704398017 Start Christmas at your own front door Birstall Flower Club

Christmas Open Evening Wednesday 23rd November 2016 Birstall Village Hall, 7.15pm start National NAFAS demonstrator : Nick Grounds titled “Anticipating Christmas” Entry by ticket only - £10 (including light refreshments) available from Sylvia 0116 2674206 or Mary 07704398017 Birstall Birdwatching Club Presents

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2016

Nature On Holiday

by David Goldsmith David is Chairman of the Hinckley Natural History Society and is never without his camera when on holiday in the UK. David enjoys capturing all forms of wildlife in coastal habitats and the countryside and tonight we join him on his journeys.

Tuesday 8th November at 7.30pm The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Members free. Visitors £2 Children free. Free on-site parking and easy access Further information Marion Vincent 0116 2375156 or Ken Goodrich 0116 2674813 Friday 25th November 10am – 6pm Saturday 26th November. 10am – 2pm Birstall Methodist Church Wanlip Lane, Birstall

Christmas Festival “Christmas Carols”

Decorated trees & displays plus Santa in the church Admission £1 (accompanied children free) Friday Outdoor Market Hampers, Gifts, Crafts, Preserves, Cakes, Pastries, Christmas Decorations.

Pancakes, Hot Dogs.

Raffle.Tombola Saturday – Crafts & Table Tops Tables @ £10 .00 each contact Margaret (0116 Coffee Shop open throughout the event serving refreshments & light lunches St. James The Great Church Hill, Birstall Sunday 6th November at 3pm

All Souls Service we will be holding a short service of hymns/readings/prayers and reflection for those who have lost a loved one recently or in the past open to everyone in the parish You will be very welcome Refreshments after the service

Charity Whist Drives organised by Derek Farr will be held at 7.30pm on Thursdays 3rd November (Christmas Whist Drive 1st December) and 5th January, in the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley. Admission £2. All players welcome The November

Messy Church at Birstall Methodist Church will be on the 19th November between 4 and 6pm where there will be crafts, food, worship and fun. All are welcome the theme will be Jesus The Light of the World. Contact James for more information on jamesblackhall@gmail.com or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/birstallmessy

200 Club Winners Age Concern Birstall & Wanlip 1st Ms R Woods 2nd Mrs S Ball 3rd Mrs B Howard 4th Mrs M Reed

Birstall Royal British Legion 5th Tony Marx (M/V) 12th Lesley (F/V) 19th Al Martins(M/V) 26TH Lisa Young (F/V0 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 Sunday Quiz nights Sunday 13th and 27th November starting at 9pm Acoustic night Sunday 20th November at 8pm Wednesday quiz every week from 8.30pm Food available every Saturday 122pm Wakes catered for Free Wi-Fi available New outside seating area

Remembrance Sunday Parade leaves at 10am All welcome •

Birstall Methodist Monday Women’s Group Programme for November and December 2016 7 Nov: A Music Quiz with Diane 14 Nov: Christmas Table and Speaker for our new Project (Motor Neurone Disease) 21 Nov: Chocolate Bingo with Pauline 28 Nov: A Christmas Miscellany – Speaker Hilary Ayline 5 Dec: MWiB Carol Service at Claremont Street 12 Dec: Christmas Meal at Birstall Golf Club – meet 7pm for 7.30pm Then re-starts 16 January 2017

Hope Fashion Show Thursday 10 November 2016 Bentley, Leicester Watermead Business Park, Rayns Way, Syston, Leicester LE7 1PF 7.00 pm – 10.00 pm Champagne Reception and Canapes Abiti, Aura Boutique, Christopher

Scotney, Flo & Sang and John Lewis 13 will be featuring their fabulous up and coming designs with Malcolm Murphy showcasing a beautiful hair display. We also have an amazing Magic Selfie Mirror, thanks to Premier Events, which will provide hours of fun for you and your friends.

You will receive a glass of fizz on arrival and there will be an opportunity to browse & purchase from stalls during the evening which will include items from the designers featured in the fashion show. Last year’s selection of stalls ranged from skincare, scarves, jewellery and crystals – so there’s something for everyone.

It’s a fantastic evening for you to get together with your friends whilst also raising money for a Hope Against Cancer Tickets are £25 and you can buy directly from the Hope website: www.hopeagainstcancer.org.uk or contact Bill Stillman e- mail: bill@connectionsst.co.uk Hope Against Cancer: we are committed to providing funding for cancer research projects and supporting clinical trials in Leicestershire and Rutland

Can we help with: ALL TYPES OF DOMESTIC & INDUSTRIAL WORK

Extra Points Alarms Rewiring Security Lighting Electrical Testing Part P Registered

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Tel: 0116 2682910 FREE ESTIMATES

• Garden Maintenance • Landscaping • Fencing & Gates • Patios, Paving & Driveways Please call Michael on: 0116 2675309 0798 0811737

14

Wanlip Church and Community Centre

St. Nicholas Fayre Saturday 3rd December 11.30am - 2pm In the Hall at Wanlip

Film Presentations Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council "The Danish Girl" (Nov 11, 119 mins) Respected artist, Einar Wegener, played by Eddie Redmayne, lives in

(Dec 9, 110 mins) This real life-story is a perfect comedy drama leading us into Christmas. Meryl Streep and Hugh Grant harmonise perfectly the humour and pathos. In 1930's and 1940's New York, Florence Foster Jenkins is a wealthy amateur operatic soprano.

Surprisingly, in spite of her poor singing ability, her concerts are always sold out. We just have to laugh at Florence's mesmerising joy.

Our first film of 2017 will be shown on January 13.

Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall, starting at 7.30pm. Film tickets will cost £5 which will include 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.

Birstall Tea Dances

1920's Copenhagen. He marries his "Love at first sight", Gerda, who is also an artist. She asks him to take the place of her absent female model. When Einar feels the soft touch of the fabric on his skin, his dormant inner feelings are awakened.

With director, Tom Hooper, who also directed "King's Speech", this film was two years in its development.

Danish Girl" is a ground breaking and remarkable true story.

"Florence Foster Jenkins"

St James Birstall Village Hall Birstall Road Leicester LE4 4DH Fridays 11th & 25th November 2016 3.30 pm - 5.30 pm £3 each Tea / coffee and cakes included All welcomed Further information contact: Jackie 0116 2248278 / 07908607405 Email: jackielucas957@hotmail.co.uk

Birstall & District Local History Society The November meeting of the Society takes place on Thursday 10th November 2016 in the Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall, Leics commencing at 7.30pm.

Peter Cousins, the speaker on the night, will be giving a talk on

"The Boys and Girls of World War I" The stories of the recruitment and lives of the thousands of underage soldiers who volunteered for action from 1914 to 1916, many of whom did not return and the volunteer Nurses, the VAD's that served on the front line.

Visitors are very welcome to join us for this talk.

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

Rothley Bowling Club

Autumn Fayre Saturday 19th November 2016 10.00 am – 12 noon at Rothley Centre Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Admission 50p including tea/coffee.

Craft items, homemade goods, jams, pickles, cakes, etc. books, bric-a-brac, bottle tombola; raffle, refreshments.

Everyone Welcome Please Come & Give Us Your Support Rothley School PTFA

Christmas Fair Sunday 27th November 2016 2-5pm at Rothley Primary School.

Lots of high quality Christmas gifts will be on offer, festive stalls and family fun for all including refreshments, facepainting and a Santa's Grotto.

All proceeds will go towards enhancing the school life of children at Rothley Church of England Primary School. £1 entrance per adult – no entrance fee for children.

Highcliffe Amateur Theatrical Society (Hats) 2016 It’s Panto time again.

This year we will be performing

Goldilocks & the 3 Bears

by Damian Trasler, David Lovesy and Steve Clark TLC Creative.

I am sure you all remember the traditional well known story of goldilocks and her escapades with the bears. A cute and very endearing story from your childhood.

Well sit back and enjoy this newer version, with twists you will never have thought of, and new characters that will bring a whole new story alive before your eyes.

Watch carefully for the “sting” in the tail. I don’t want to say too much about what this might mean, I want you to be intrigued and excited and eager to come and find out for yourself.

For those of you who return to see our performances year after year, you know exactly what to expect, chaos, laughter, singing, applause, boos, and the odd mistake (made on purpose of course).

If this is your first time watching HATS, then you are in for a treat.

Join in, have some fun and we are sure you will return again and again.

November 24th, 25th and 26th Times: 24th and 25th 7.15pm each evening 26th 2.30pm matinee and 6.45pm evening £6.00 adults, £5.00 children and concessions £20 family ticket, 2 adults and 2 children.

Venue: Highcliffe Primary School, Greengate Lane, Birstall LE4 3DL Box office: 0116 2209594, 0116 2216019

Rothley Christmas Lights Switch on event

RIVERSIDE PRIMARY SCHOOL require a

Dining Supervisor

For further information and application form please email office@riverside.leics.sch.uk as soon as possible Riverside Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Riverside Primary School is part of the Lionheart Academies Trust led by Beauchamp College.

Riverside Primary School, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4JU www.riversideacademy.org.uk

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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2016

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Thur Nov 24, 5.45pm The event is organised by Rothley churches, shopkeepers, the Parish Council and village organisations.

Rothley School choir will be singing, all the shops are open, there will be stalls, entertainment, funfair rides, an array of food and drink and the chance to meet friends and raise money for local charities

Christmas Tree Festival Christ Church, Mountsorrel Rothley Road, Mountsorrel, LE12 7JU Supporting the Sorrel Youth Café Open Saturday 3rd December, 10am – 7pm, Sunday 4th December, 12.30 – 4pm, Holy Communion at 11am, Messy Church at 4pm, Refreshments are served on Saturday and Sunday.

Monday 5th December (School and Pre-school visits) and 7.30pm Ladies’ Carol Service.

Web: http://cofe.mountsorrel.org/ One in three women across the world will be affected by domestic violence at some point in their life.

Join us! For 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence, to call for an end to all forms of violence against women and girls.

A Time of Prayer with Churches Together to support 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence Tuesday 29th November, 7.30pm in St James Church, Birstall www.mothersunion.org Twitter: @MothersUnion #MU16Days #EndGBV #itsnotok www.facebook.com/MothersUnion

Get Healthy representative will offer expert advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

An M8 monitor will be used to collect personal health data. The monitor is user-friendly and the process is confidential. The results are printed on a ticket for you to keep.

You can record your health data in our M8 Health Monitoring Log. Contact 0333 344 4611 to reserve a place. Maximum of 6/session.

CLASH Table Tennis Club Every Friday evening 7.00- 8.00pm at Peepul Enterprise, Orchardson Ave, LE4 6DP For anyone between 11yrs - 23yrs living with a family member with Arthritis. A qualified coach will take the session.

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Bowling club news BIRSTALL BOWLING Club’s outdoor season finished last month and in another busy year, members won two county competitions and three parks competitions, as well as reaching various other finals, semi finals and quarter finals.

Members also represented Leicestershire as the ladies won the national Walker Cup and both ladies and men won their respective Midland Counties league titles.

The club competition results for the year are below.

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Ladies Winners: Championship: Pa Walker, Runner Up: Jennie Groves Handicap: Maddie Stuart-Reid, Runner Up: Di Hartop Maiden: Pam McMahon, Runner Up: Barbara Mullins Three Wood: Anne Boden, Runner Up: Angie Parkin Two Wood: Anne Boden, Runner Up: Lesley Powell Pairs: Lesley Powell & Di Hartop, Runners Up: Di King & Angie Parkin Edith Smith Pairs: Lesley Powell & Pa Walker, Runners Up: Lesley Clarke & Maddie Stuart-Reid Fielding & Everitt Cups: Hazel Andrews, Runner Up: Mavis Tildesley Men’s Winners: Championship: Andy Wye, Runner Up: Dave Smith Handicap: John Walker, Runner Up: John Eaton Maiden: Peter Akroyd, Runner Up: Grahame Fawcett Three Wood: John Andreae, Runner Up: John Lee Two Wood: John Hurst, Runner Up: Richard Smith Pairs: Peter Akroyd & John Hurst, Runners Up: Tony Boswell & Roger Savill Club Night Cup: Maurice Jeffrey & Eric North Mixed Competition Winners: Club Open: John Hurst, Runner Up: Richard Smith Saunders Cup: Di & John Hurst, Runners Up: Pa Walker & Paul Young Adnett Cup: Di Hartop & Richard Smith, Runners Up: Joan Preston & John Walker Sue Andrews Trophy: Sue Smith, Gil Nall & Dave Smith, Runners Up: Chris Winder, Jack Berry & Richard Smith

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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2016

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Home visiting service VOLUNTEERS HAVE come forward following an appeal in the Birstall Post.

Wendy Marshall, Home Visiting coordinator for LOROS, said: “It has been a year now since LOROS and Birstall BAGS released posters and adverts in the Birstall post appealing for volunteers.

“LOROS Hospice has now had a total of 15 enquiries from the Birstall and Rothley area to volunteer for the Home Visiting Service - thank you.”

Five volunteers have completed their training with the Home Visiting Service and are providing social support and companionship to five patients - two in Birstall and three in the wider Leicester and Leicestershire area.

A further two applicants are keen to volunteer for LOROS but in other areas, one as a driver, the other as a receptionist at the Hospice, says Wendy.

She added: “The Home Visiting Service continues to get excellent feedback about our volunteers from patients, carers and professionals alike. We are currently seeing around 60 patients in their homes with a team of 44 volunteers.

“The service continues to go from strength to strength and we would be delighted to talk to anyone interested in volunteering for the Home Visiting Service or elsewhere across the charity.”

Who can refer to LOROS Home Visiting Service?

Your GP, specialist nurse or other health and social care professional can refer you to the service.

How can I become a volunteer for LOROS Home Visiting Service?

Contact Brenda Wilford – Home Visiting Services Facilitator or Wendy Marshall – Home Visiting Services Administrator/Co-ordinator Telephone : (0116) 231 8470 Email : homevisiting@loros.co.uk For more information visit loros.co.uk/volunteering

Fun with grandparents THE CHILDREN at Half Pints on Loughborough Road were delighted to welcome their grandmas and granddads to celebrate ‘Grandparents’ Day’.

“The children were so excited to show them around and teach their grandparents how to decorate cakes and make keepsake flowers to treasure” said a spokesman.

15

Abbie wins prize in art competion

Club’s special night

A TEN year old girl who attends a Birstall school was honoured with a top prize at a central London awards ceremony.

Abbie Lloyd, who suffers from ADHD and is a student at ALP School at the Cedars Academy in Birstall, won the Silver Award in the Photography category at the Unique Arts Awards for her original piece, inspired on the theme of ‘My World’.

The Unique Art Awards aim to recognise the achievement of Britain’s most talented disabled young artists.

The brainchild of the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (MFPA) Trust Fund for Training of Handicapped Children in the Arts, the national competition celebrates five artistic mediums and opened for entries nationwide April to July this year for artists aged 7-21 years old.

Tom Yendell, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the MFPA Trust Fund and

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himself a mouth and foot painting artist, said: “The calibre of entries was superb and we are thrilled at how many we received for

Pics: Abbie presented with her prize by arts journalist Melanie Gerlis & (inset) her winning photograph

our first award but Abbie’s piece was a favourite amongst all the judges. We

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BIRSTALL VILLAGE Cricket Club’s annual presentation night was attended by around fifty players, wives, girlfriends and supporters and was held at Birstall United FC on Meadow Lane.

hope she enjoys putting her prize of art vouchers to good use!”

There were also two other students at Abbie’s school who won prizes: 9 year old Ezra Mbogo, who is autistic, won the Bronze Award for 2D Artwork. 8 year old Dylan Cleary (who suffers from delayed speech and language development) won the Silver Award for 3D Sculpture.

Allotment produce & social day

Give us a call at Birstall Rd on

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BIRSTALL ALLOTMENT Society held its annual vegetable growing competition and social day in September.

Society secretary Mary Farrell explains: “The entries for the competition were very high quality and the judges, Anne and Andrew, did a sterling job. The prize winners were Ed Walker, Dave Cherry, Joy Groom, Richard Groom, Mary Farrell, Steve Saunders, Rob Frizzell and Rewban Spencer (aged 5). Well done to all of them “We once again would like to thank the following local businesses for their generosity in donating the fantastic prizes. They are the Co-op Store, Birstall Fisheries, Birstall Garden Centre, Bargain Booze, Tesco Express, The White Horse Pub, the Plough Inn, Wyevale Garden Centre, Dave & Sharon Flower. Without their support the event would not be the success it was.

“We would also like to inform everyone that as a result of the sale of tools & equipment, plants, garden produce and raffles we were pleased to give a cheque to the Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance Service for £400.

“A big thank you to all who turned up to help to make a successful day.”

Pic: (l-r) Rosie Houldsworth, Ian Hunt & Helen Carnan

The club made a donation to local cancer charity Birstall BAGS and Rosie Houldsworth and Helen Carnan received a cheque for £561.45 on behalf of BAGS, raised over the summer by two race nights and the annual President’s cricket match.

The club prizewinners were: 1st XI Bowling Joshua Saye, Batting Jon Gaydon, Player of the Year Joshua Saye; 2nd XI Bowling, Steve Findley, Batting Alex Webster, Player of the Year Richard Olsen Engraved mini bats were presented to Jon Gaydon, Joshua Saye and Alex Webster for scoring centuries.

Food was provided by Aroma Spice and a short quiz presented by Christian Cain.

The December issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Dec 2.

The copy deadline is Nov 18.

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is still required if you are selling or renting out your house.

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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2016

16

Tennis club winners NHW news BIRSTALL TENNIS Club held its annual club championships over the course of a week in September.

A club spokesman said: “Some great tennis for all age groups was played. Congratulations to the following who competed on finals day.”

Pic: U10 finalists Ajay Burton-Pyatt & Amy Walpole

Pic: U9 winner Harry Adamski

& crime report

Burgle Your Own Home As the nights are drawing in, the longer hours of darkness are very welcome to burglars.

Few of us have items in our homes valuable enough to be of interest to professional criminals but an awful lot of us are burgled by passers-by. Casual thieves look for opportunities and take advantage of them, simply because they are there. Even when little of value is taken, the distress caused by a burglary is often mixed with disbelief that it could have happened in such a simple way that could so easily have been prevented.

So, please, take a few minutes to think like a thief and ‘case’ your own property.

Ask yourself: if you were a burglar, how would you break in?

Use your imagination to keep one step ahead of unwanted visitors. Are your windows and doors easy to open from the outside? Do you have extra security locks fitted and do you use them all the time? Do you always set your burglar alarm? Are your sheds and outbuildings secure? Do you leave ladders and tools lying about that a burglar could use?

Does your home advertise that it unoccupied when no one is in? It is simple enough to put a couple of table lamps on timer switches so that they come on when you are out. You can even use a device that makes it look as

if somebody is at home watching television.

It is a sad fact of life that we have to think like this. However, if we spot things ourselves and put them right, they will not be there for a thief to exploit.

Just stay alert and take simple precautions.

You can get friendly advice and a range of security devices, some of them free to members, every third Saturday of the month at our Advice Shop on Sibson Road Car Park (opposite the garden centre) between 10am and 12noon.

The next date is Saturday, November 19, 2016.

Do take care.

From Birstall & Wanlip NHW

Crime Report Birstall & Wanlip: Sep 2016 Assaults 3, burglary 1, burglary nondwelling 4, damage 6, damage to motor vehicle 10, public order 3, theft 3, theft from motor vehicle 15, theft from store 4 UNFORTUNATELY WE have seen a large rise in recorded crime this month, up from 37 offences in August to 49 in September.

This is mainly due to a rise in thefts from vehicles, of which we have had 15 offences this month as well as a rise in damage to motor vehicle offences, of which we have had 10.

In most cases where vehicles have been broken into there has been no sign of a forced entry, suggesting that the vehicles have possibly been left insecure.

We have also seen CCTV footage of suspects going along the street and trying numerous car doors, only entering them if they find them unlocked, which adds credence to this theory. Unfortunately the footage we have seen is not good enough to see who the suspects are, however we are continuing our enquiries to try and identify the person(s) responsible. Please try to remember to lock your car at all times to ensure that you do not become

17 a victim of these crimes & make sure that you do not leave anything of value in it. Fortunately in most case it has only been small amounts of loose change or other low-value items that have been taken, however we have had a couple of incidents where high value items that had been left in vehicles have been stolen.

As stated above, we have also seen a large rise in the number of vehicles damaged this month and in particular we have had a number of car wing mirrors kicked off and windows damaged in the area around Roman Road, Curzon Avenue and Tempest Road. We suspect that youths from either the Mowmacre Hill or Stocking Farm estates are responsible for these incidents as we have had reports of youths being seen to cause damage late in the evenings before running away in the direction of Red Hill Circle. Please can I ask that if you are out in this area you remain vigilant and report any incidents that you should see so that we can try to catch the people responsible for these damages? We will also be speaking with the officers who work on those estates to see if they can assist us in identifying who the culprits are.

Lastly, as the dark nights start to draw in again, please can I remind residents to consider leaving a light on whenever your house is unoccupied to give the impression that someone is home. Burglars are far less likely to break in if they think a house is occupied & so small things such as this can make a real difference.

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 6552 Mo Musa.

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).

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THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2016

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News from the churches APART FROM the excitement of Bonfire Night, November is not usually a very cheerful month. Christmas still seems far away (except in the big stores!) and the dark nights have arrived.

However in the church's calendar, there is much going on. As part of an outreach to schools by Churches Together in Birstall and Wanlip, groups of children from the different schools in Birstall will be coming to look round the church of St James.

For many it will perhaps be the first time they have visited a local church founded in Saxon times, and they will learn something about their heritage in this part of the village.

At Wanlip, preparations will be going on for the St Nicholas Fayre in Wanlip Church and Community Centre from 11.30am until 2pm on Saturday December 3 (and any contributions of raffle prizes, and cakes will be gratefully received: - contact Julie on 2677600).

A charity pub lunch is to be held at the White Horse on Wednesday November 9 at 1pm in aid of "Save the children". Tickets are £17 and can be obtained from Josephine on 2674252 or at ajbsavethechildren@gmail.com (before 2nd November) At St. James on Sunday November 6 (NB not on October 30 as previously advertised) the annual All Souls service takes place at 3pm, and all who wish to commemorate the passing of a loved one are invited for a short service of readings, hymns and prayers, followed by refreshments. The British Legion Remembrance Sunday service will be on November 13 at 10.30pm at St James On the last Sunday of the month, November 27, we shall celebrate the beginning of the Advent season, which leads up to Christmas, at an Advent evensong, with readings and carols, at Wanlip church at 6pm. The annual Christingle service will be at St James at 10am on Sunday December 4 at 10am. All are welcome to any of these services.

From Birstall Parish churches

Father Christmas will be at the Christmas Festival!

Although he is missing from the posters and adverts, Father Christmas will be in at-

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tendance at the Christmas Festival on Friday November 25 & Saturday 26. There is no charge for accompanied children to see the decorated trees, displays & arrangements (and to meet Father Christmas) on either of the two days. We look to the adults for a £1 donation. The proceeds from the whole weekend will be for Methodist Church funds in Birstall and Syston Volunteer Centre.

In addition to the Festival (in the church) there will be a Christmas Market from 10am to 6pm on Friday 25th with a whole range of goods on sale throughout the rest of the premises and the Marquee outside.

On Saturday 26th there will be a ‘Table Top Sale’ from 10am until 2pm.

The Coffee shop will be open throughout the two days also serving light lunches between noon & 1.30.

Changes to the front car park Heavy rain often caused to small car park at the front of the premises (between the Church & the Coffee shop) to flood. The church is grateful to John for his efforts in removing years of sludge and leaves so that flooding should be a thing of the past. Longer term the car park will be for disabled only, with a designated walkway running between the pavement and the ‘new’ glass entrance.

From Birstall Methodist Church

Sunday Services Our Sunday morning services will be held, as usual, in the Community Room at Highcliffe Primary School, Greengate Lane, LE4 3DL and begin at 10.45am. You are warmly invited to join with us and there is a children’s Sunday School available. Please ring for arrangements for Sunday evening services: that on November 27 will be in Birstall and start at 6pm. Looking ahead, our Carol Service this year will be on December 11, again at 10.45am at Highcliffe.

Evington Lectures Evington Chapel (on the corner of High Street and Main Street in Evington, LE5 6FH) will be starting its winter series of lectures on Saturday November 19 at 7pm. The series this year is entitled: “Solas of the Reformation”.

The word “sola” (the Latin word for “only”) was used in the five phrases expressing the key teachings of the Protestant Reformation: i.e. ‘salvation by faith alone, in Christ alone, through grace alone, according to Scripture alone and to the glory of God alone’. The first lecture, to be given by Tim Martin, is “Christ Alone”. Further details can be found on the chapel’s website: www.evingtonchapel.org.uk Calendars BIBC has some free calendars for 2017 available. They have a different colour picture (landscape/nature) and Scripture text for each month. If you would like one, then please contact the number below.

For further information about BIBC please ring 0116 2214883.

From Anne Taylor, Birstall Independent Baptist Church

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Legion women THE WOMEN’S section of the Birstall Royal British Legion has closed.

Sunday September 25 saw the final outing for the standard of the Royal British Legion Women’s Section at a laying up ceremony at St James the Great Church, Birstall.

This ceremony concluded the act of disbanding the section and was also attended by Madeline Gibbard, British Legion Women’s Section County Chairman, and Ann Marshall, Chairman of the Parish Council. After the service everyone gathered at the Legion club for refreshments where there was a toast to the RBL Women’s Section.

“It was a very sad occasion, like losing a friend, as the section has been in existence for 75 years” said a spokeswoman.

British Legion Headquarters in Pall Mall have started to instigate changes to

Pic: Sheila Warrington

the format of the Women’s Sections.

The lady members feel that this has made it untenable for them to carry on their work in the format that has worked so well for the last 95 years since Women’s Sections were first formed.

Birstall women’s section started on March 17, 1941 and since that day have raised many thousands of pounds for the ex service community. The Birstall section has, over the years, won many trophies and was honoured to win the Haig cup for progress on two occasions: 1951 and 1956. Over the years many of the ladies have achieved the gold badge, which is the highest award that can be given to any member for dedicated service over many years.

The spokeswoman said: “British Legion HQ has instigated these changes without consultations with the membership and our loyal band of workers are very disappointed with this. It is felt that they don’t realise the contribution that we make and expected that we would accept their decisions without protest.

This feeling is replicated around the country and very many other branches of the Women’s Section have already disbanded or plan to do so in the near future.

“The ladies have decided to carry on with their meetings and outings as a group of friends. We will continue to raise money for local charities making our own decisions on who should benefit from this work.”

Meetings will continue as usual on the third Thursday of the month at 7:30pm in the RBL Club. A new name for the group has yet to be decided.

School’s sponsor A NEW free school has been granted planning permission in Birstall, and the Lionheart Academies Trust has been chosen to sponsor it.

The new 210 place primary school to be built on the Hallam Fields housing development in Birstall, has recently been granted planning approval by the Charnwood Borough Council.

Cllr Ivan Ould, Leicestershire County Council cabinet member for children and families, said: “I am really pleased that the Lionheart Academies Trust, building on its success in the other Birstall schools, has been selected to run the new school, and that the plans for this have been approved by the Charnwood Borough Council – this is great news. We want children to learn in first class facilities, the new primary school will ensure we achieve that, and will be a great boost for families in the area The new school will also feature an attached recreation centre with sports pitches for use by the community.

It is anticipated that the school will cost around £4m and will open in September 2017. It becomes the fourth school run by the Lionheart Academy Trust in Birstall.

Kath Kelly from the Lionheart Academy Trust said: “We are very proud to be given the go ahead for a school we believe will become a valued part of the Birstall community.

“The new school will offer pupils the chance to learn in a state of the art learning environment and enjoy the highest standards of teaching and learning, parents and carers can also rely on their children to be encouraged and nurtured toward making the best possible progress. This new school will also benefit from the excellent work already taking place at Cedars, Highcliffe and Riverside, our other Birstall schools.”

It was originally thought that the school would have been built several years ago but it was put on hold in 2008 when Leicestershire County Council said the demand for extras school places could be met by expanding Riverside school.

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18

Panto promises fun Club makes donation IT’S PANTO time again and HATS’ show this year is Goldilocks and the Three Bears.

“If this will be your first time watching HATS then you are in for a treat” said Sue Withers.

She added: “I am sure you all remember the traditional well known story of Goldilocks and her escapades with the bears. A cute and very endearing story from your childhood. Well sit back and enjoy this newer version, with twists you will never have thought of, and new characters that will being a whole new story alive before your eyes. Watch carefully for the ‘sting’ in the tail. I don’t want to say too much about what this might mean, I want you to be intrigued and excited and eager to come and find out for yourself.

For those of you who return to see our performances year after year, you know exactly what to expect, chaos,

laughter, singing, applause, boos and the odd mistake (made on purpose of course).

Highcliffe Amateur Theatrical Society’s production will be performed at Highcliffe School, Greengate Lane, Birstall on November 24, 25 & 26. Times; Nov 24 & 25, 7.15pm each evening, Nov 26, 2.15pm ,matinee and 6.45pm evening.

Prices: £6 adults, £5 children and

concessions, £20 family ticket, 2 adults and two children Box Office: 0116 2209594, 0116 2216019

THE OUTDOOR bowls season has now drawn to a close and late in September members of St Margaret's Cooperative BC gathered for their final farewells.

We usually play bowls but the weather was so poor we spent an hour or two playing games and quizzes in the clubhouse.

Each year the club president, this year Christine Townsend, chooses a charity which the club supports with fundraising. This year's charity was 'Wishes 4 Kids' which was created to grant wishes for children who, for example have suffered major abuse, are bereaved or who are terminally ill.

Nicola Adcock visited our club and she explained that the Charity has granted wishes to hundreds of children since it was founded in 2002. Nicola is a committed fundraiser for the Charity. She became involved when her son, Jack who had Down's Syndrome and has since died, was granted his wish to go to Disneyland Paris.

"There is nothing more amazing than the look on a child's face when their wish is being granted." Nicola explained. "For parents it is a moment they will treasure for the rest of their lives – a time when their child forgot their suffering." Nicola thanked us and assured us that the, "generous donation would help the Charity to continue doing its life enhancing work".

The work is all made possible by the generosity of the people of Leicestershire because there is no lottery funding or other official support for the charity. The picture shows Nicola Adcock, with her daughter Ruby, accepting a cheque for £1200 on behalf of Wishes 4 Kids, from club president Christine Townsend.

For further details of the Charity see, www.wishes4kids.co.uk.

From Sam Dobson St Margaret's Co-operative Bowls Club smcbc.com

WI news Group donates cash

THE BIRSTALL POST NOV 2016

THE BIRSTALL Methodist Monday Women’s Group presented a cheque for £2,200 to Jo Anne Wilson, Fundraising Manager for Macmillan Cancer Support, at the Leicester Royal Infirmary.

The group are proud of the funds that they have raised, which in total could fund a Macmillan Nurse for 81 hours.

“It was as a result of a lot of hard work and the dedication of our Group of approximately 40 women” said Eileen Molesdale. “We had fund raising activities such as Saturday coffee mornings with stalls ranging from delicious cakes, plants, bric-a-brac, tombola, books, raffle etc. We had thrift stalls at our meetings when women brought along items to sell for our project and individual women ran fund raising activities from their homes.”

The group welcomes new members.

Eileen said: “Join us as we have fun raising money for our new project – MND Motor Neurone Disease. We meet every Monday evening at 7.30pm in the Coffee Shop at Birstall Methodist Church.

We look forward to welcoming you.”

The December issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Dec 2.

The copy deadline is Nov 18.

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33 LADIES assembled at Highcliffe School on October 3 for Birstall and Wanlip WI’s monthly meeting.

Feedback was given on the skittles evening where we unfortunately lost to Groby WI, and from our well fed judges at the White Horse Birstall Bake Off. There will be another speakers audition evening at the end of October where our social secretary Kath chooses most of our speakers for future meetings. They are always so informative, entertaining and sometimes hilarious like our speaker Pat Hall who told us “Life Can Be Funny”.

Using the Centenary of both the WI and the WWI she dressed in period costume as four socially differing women reading letters that they had written to loved ones. She then related amusing anecdotes interjected with plenty of ad libbing. It was very cleverly done and for a woman who freely admitted that she was “the same age as Mick Jagger” she made a very unlikely and successful stand up comedienne. Further merriment ensued when Anne Barnacle read her “favourite Bad Joke” and won the competition cup.

Our next meeting is our AGM on November 7 and speaker Caroline Roberts will tell us that there is “More to Life than Cheese” and the competition will be ‘A Leicester Souvenir’.

School’s water loss CHILDREN WERE sent home and the school closed when the water supply at Riverside school was cut off.

On Monday October 3 staff observed there was no water coming out of the taps and toilets weren’t flushing.

Executive Headteacher Scott Fewster said: “We had to make the difficult decision to close the school due to the lack of water, since children and staff could not use the toilets wash their hands or drink.

“We used our ParentMail email and text system as well as Twitter and word of mouth. The majority of our 453 pupils went home and we made provision for the children of parents we either couldn’t contact or couldn’t get to us.”

Severn Trent identified the issue as located in the street outside the school but could not say how quickly it could be fixed. Rather than keep school closed on the following day, staff liaised with the Cedars Academy and on Tuesday October 4, Riverside children were taught in the Palmer-Tomkinson Centre at the Cedars.

Scott said: “The day was a great success. Our attendance was the same as any other day and the parents were amazing in their support and involvement – their positivity and help was really valued. The Riverside staff worked incredibly hard throughout the day to ensure that lessons continued and the pupils were safe and well supervised.

“The water problem was fixed by Severn Trent and we called in plumbers to check that the water supply was working again before school was able to resume as normal on Wednesday.

“I would like to thank the staff for their professionalism and hard work over the two day period and the parents for being so supportive and understanding. I would also, of course, like to thank Jason Smith and his team at the Cedars for their help and hospitality which allowed us to prevent a school closure day.”

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What about people with a high family risk of cancer?

Some people may have a higher risk of certain cancers, perhaps because of a strong family history. Their doctors may recommend they have some extra tests that are different to screening for the general population.

What if I’m not eligible for screening?

No matter what age you are, if you notice anything out of the ordinary for you and your body, it’s important to see your doctor to get checked out and don't forget there are also lots of things need to make their own appointment as you can do to reduce your risk of develthey will not get an invitation. In England, oping cancer in the first place. this age range is gradually being extend- Should I be screened? ed to 47-73.

Whether or not to go for screening is Cervical screening is offered to womyour choice. You will be sent informaen aged 25-64 in England, Wales and tion with your screening invitation about Northern Ireland. In Scotland, women the benefits and risks of the test, so you aged 20-60 are offered screening, but should read this information to help you this is changing to become the same as make an informed decision. the other countries from 2016.

You can also ask your doctor if you Bowel screening is offered to men need help to understand or make a and women aged 60-74 in England, decision.

Wales and Northern Ireland. In ScotFor further information: land, men and women aged www.cancerresearchuk.org and as al50-74 are offered screen- ways ing. In England, a University Hospitals of Leicester Cannew test called Bow- cer Information Centre on 0116 258 el Scope is starting 6189 to be offered to For more information on the funds people at age 55. we have raised, projects we support and You will be invitforthcoming events see ed for screening as www.birstallbags.co.uk long as you are Contact the BAG’s by email registered with a GP. birstallbags@hotmail.com If you are older Birstall BAG’s Registered Charity than the age range for Number 1160190 breast screening in any UK naBirstall BAG’s is establishing a tion, or for bowel screening in England Home Visiting Service in collaboration and Scotland, you can still be screened with LOROS and initially we are looking if you want. But you won’t get an autoto recruit LOROS volunteers from the matic invitation. You can make your own Birstall and surrounding area willing to breast screening appointment, or request support families in their own home in a bowel screening kit. How to do this our community – for more information depends on your local area, but your GP please contact Andrew Lowden surgery can tell you who to contact. andrewlowden@loros.co.uk tel 0116 2318470

Birstall BAG’s cancer corner Cancer Screening There are some cancers that we can be screened for which provides an opportunity to find a cancer sooner rather than later. Birstall BAG's would like to share a quick update on what cancer screening is available in the England.

What is screening?

Cancer screening is meant for healthy people with no symptoms at all. Screening looks for early signs that could indicate cancer is developing. It can help spot cancers at an early stage, when treatment is more likely to be successful and the chances of survival are much better. In some cases, it can even prevent cancers from developing at all, by picking up early changes that can then be treated to stop them turning into cancer.

What screening programmes are available?

In the UK there are national screening programmes for breast, cervical and bowel cancer. There is no screening programme for prostate cancer because the PSA test is not reliable enough, but men over 50 can have the test if they ask for it.

Breast screening is offered to women aged 50-70 in all UK nations. Women over 70 can still be screened, but will

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