Birstall Post (411) October 2017

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

OCTOBER 2017

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 411

Birstall’s new school opens BIRSTALL’S NEW primary school has opened on Hallam Fields, welcoming 30 new pupils aged four and five.

At the end of her first day at school, four year old Isha Joshi said: “I liked it – the best bit was colouring in bears.” Mum Roselene said: “Everything is so new and clean, it’s refreshing and has the wow factor. We were one of the last to apply for a place for our daughter and the staff have been very accommodating throughout the Continued on page 2 whole process.”

Pics: Children helping Executive Headteacher Scott Fewster and Chair of the Lionheart Academies Trust Chris Swan to cut the ribbon; parents Roselene and Rahul Joshi with their daughter Isha; parents, children and guests in the school hall on opening day

Highcliffe redeveloped PART OF Highcliffe primary school is set to be demolished and rebuilt.

The junior teaching block facing Greengate Lane will be replaced after the Education and Skills Funding Agency identified the school as a priority for redevelopment.

They say the new building will offer improved facilities for pupils, staff and the local community, and will be built early in 2018, subject to planning permission being obtained.

Before a planning application is submitted a consultation event has been organised for Tuesday October 3, 5-8pm, in the junior school hall (access from Greengate Lane). Members of staff and the architects will be available to answer any questions.

At the time of going to press the Birstall Post was unable to obtain any drawings or details of costings, build time, or the facilities in the new building.

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Day care centre secures funding A DEMENTIA day care centre in Birstall will stay open after NHS bosses decided to fund it for the next two years.

The centre, based in the Village Hall, is run by Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland and looks after 19 people with dementia across two days, with several and a meeting room. on a waiting list.

Mr Fewster said: “The Hallam Fields In April 2016 the NHS West Leicesterestate in Birstall has been growing steadishire Clinical Commissioning Group said ly for the past 14 years, but it is only in it was withdrawing £70,000 of funding the last year or so that it is starting to and the centre looked set to close. feel like a community in its own right Campaigners, Carers and Age UK following the opening of a nursery, resiurged the CCG to reconsider and in Audential care home, community centre, gust, the CCG decided to award a two shop and now the primary school. As a new school we want to take our place in year £84,000 contract to Age UK Leicester Shire and Rutland, which means the the very heartbeat of this growing comservice can continue. munity. The new school has been need“We are delighted by the news which ed and campaigned for over many years will take a great deal of pressure off because the other two primary schools family members who have caring responin Birstall were becoming heavily oversibilities” said Tony Donovan, Chair of subscribed and facing increasing presAge UK Leicester Shire & Rutland. sure to take more and more new pupils “The centre acts as a lifeline providing beyond their capacity.” them with much needed respite, and Pic: Hallam Fields primary school

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quality care and support to those attending the day centre” he added.

Ann Marshall, Chair of Birstall Parish Council said: “I am really pleased at this news, dementia is a growing problem and places a great burden on carers.

The day centre gives them respite and is the kind of service that should be expanded, not shut down.”

Birstall’s MP Edward Argar said: “I am really pleased that the CCG has listened to our campaign and the local community, and welcome their decision to give Age UK this two year contract for these vital dementia day care services in Birstall. As Post readers will know, I have visited the centre and seen for myself how important this service is to people with dementia and those who care for them, and I pay tribute to Tony Donovan of Age UK and his team in Birstall for the fantastic work they do.

This decision is great news and means the service can continue helping and supporting local people.”

New lock up time for gates BIRSTALL PARISH Council has introduced new locking times for the gates to its car parks, playing fields and the cemetery.

The old times were: April 1 to August 31, 8.30am to 9.30pm and September 1 to March 31, 8.30am to 7pm.

The new times are 8am to 9.30pm all year round.

Councillors considered the opening times at the meeting held on September 11.

Parish clerk Sue Coulson said: “This system has worked successfully for many years, however, this year the Parish Council installed a barrier on the Sibson Road car park to address antisocial behaviour issues which were causing concerns for neighbouring residents, this initiative was supported

by Birstall’s local beat officers.

“Councillors received and deliberated some of the concerns that had been received by the office and took the decision to have a single tier unlocking and locking system of 8am to 9.30pm all year round.”

The new times were introduced on September 12, 2017.

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

from page 1 Executive Headteacher Scott Fewster said: “The first day went very well!

Children and parents were equally excited and positive about being part of the new school and they settled in quickly – there were very few tears, only when it was time to go home! I have been overwhelmed by how supportive and positive the parents have been about their children’s new school and would like to thank them for their partnership as we start this new journey together.”

He added: “I am very excited about leading this new school because it allows us to work in partnership with our partner schools in Birstall to provide an excellent education, but also to play a strong part in this growing and flourishing community.”

The £4million school will grow to full capacity of 210 pupils over the next seven years. The building is clad in wood and has seven spacious classrooms. It incorporates a recreational facility for community use which includes changing rooms, a kitchenette

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Diamond couple met in fish & chip shop A COUPLE who met in a Birstall fish and chip shop are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary.

Maurice and Gill Barsby were just 18 and 16 years old as their eyes met for the first time in the Sibson Road shop.

“I noticed her blonde hair and thought she was very nice” said Maurice (83) who had red hair at the time which Gill says caught her eye.

“After that we started courting, we got on really well and it all just went from there.”

The couple were married in St James Church on October 5, 1957 and set up home together on Holt Road before moving to Allington Drive where they live today.

They have a shared interest in horse racing having visited racecourses up and down the country including meetings at Royal Ascot and the Derby.

The couple have one daughter, two granddaughters and three great grandsons and will celebrate their anniversary with a party for friends, family and neighbours at their Allington Drive home.

Maurice said: “We’ve had our ups and downs and arguments over the years, I’ve always been right of course!

We took it as it comes and all in all we’ve had a good life.”

Gill (80) said: “He’s the same now as he was then – he does what he’s told! If we have Corgi Gas Reg. Installers an argument at dinner we’ll be friends again by tea time.”

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A FIFTEEN year old student at the Cedars Academy came first out of 1404 runners in the ASDA Foundation Leicester 10k race.

Zach Spence, a member of Wreake and Soar Valley AC, was first across the finish line in a time of 36:41, a personal best.

Enthusiastic spectators helped create a lively atmosphere as they encouraged the runners around the route which started and finished in Abbey Park.

Zach said: “I was shocked and really surprised to come first, and I was very pleased with my PB which I got by over a minute.

“I would love to represent Leicestershire again next year at Cross Country, it was a real honour and in the future I would really like to represent England and GB but I know that will be a tough challenge.”

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Boxing show at Social Club TWO GOOD causes have benefited from a charity show organised by a Birstall boxing gym.

Technical Basement has been based at Birstall Social Club for the last three years and is led by Tom Rudkin.

In August, the gym staged a boxing show at the social club featuring eight boxers.

“The atmosphere was electric” said Tom. “I think there’s a lot of demand for this kind of show, the feedback has been great and we hope to put on another one.”

He added: “This is a community gym, run for the community, and events like this help to put something back.”

The show raised £500 which was split between Birstall’s Molly Gates (20) who was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis aged five and the Birstall Special Needs Playgroup, which is led by Deborah Hoggar.

Molly and Deborah were invited to the gym to receive a cheque for £250 each. Deborah said: “Molly and I received such a warm welcome from the group of young boxers. They showed a real interest in our work at playgroup and they were clearly very proud of the club that they were establishing at the Social Club. We were delighted to receive £250 to buy some new play equipment for the children.

“It is a privilege to be reminded that ordinary people creating and enjoying clubs and

amenities in the village, also want to reach out and support parents and their children who they value as part of their community. Thank you Tactical Basement for your generosity.”

The gym is for men and women of all ages and abilities and meets at 7pm on Mon, Tues, Thur and Fri. Wednesdays at 7pm is a women only session. For more details drop in or call Tom Rudkin 0747 2270071.

Pics: (top) boxers in the ring at the charity show; (bottom) the presentation in the gym

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

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Parish Council notes

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on September 11.

Mr Vipul Shah was co-opted to fill a vacancy on the council.

A member of the public commented that he had looked at the council’s accounts and was concerned that there were balances in excess of the deposit compensation limit of £85,000 held with the same bank, and that the majority of the bank accounts were paying no interest.

PC Dave Jaeckels presented the crime report. He said that thefts from motor vehicles were still a problem across the county and that a number of suspects had been identified.

He said a new priority was noisy vehicles driven in such a way as to constitute antisocial behaviour (ASB). The new car park gate at the Sibson Road car park has been effective at reducing ASB, but the problem has been moved to the Co-op car park and the industrial estate at Hallam Fields. He said a number of warnings for careless and inconsiderate driving had been issued which can result in confiscation of vehicles.

It was reported that the latest details about the Hallam Fields Community Hall had been added to the Parish Council website.

It was agreed to spend £22,402 on the refurbishment of the School Lane playing field public toilets. This will involve new stainless steel, vandal proof fixtures and fittings and re-decoration.

It was agreed to take advice from the installers of the Sibson Road car park gates as to how to secure them more effectively. PC Dave Jaeckels reported that he had caught members of the public attempting to remove the gates after cars had been locked in the top car park.

It was agreed to conduct a public consultation on the provision of a multi use games area on the School Lane playing field.

Councillors considered a request from Girlguiding Birstall for £910 to help fund five girls who have successfully passed a selection process to go on trips abroad. It was agreed to award £500 from the Community Grant fund.

It was agreed that a single new locking time for Parish Council car parks, playing fields and the cemetery be: unlock 8am, lock 9.30pm. This will be implemented from September 12, 2017.

It was agreed that the provision of phone numbers and an email address for individual councillors on the contact page of the Parish Council website will be voluntary.

It was agreed that letters and emails from residents be added to the agenda of full council meetings so that all councillors are aware of issues raised, not just the relevant ward councillors.

The council has agreed to spend £3672 on providing bonded surfacing to the ground beneath the outdoor gym equipment on the School Lane playing field.

Fire engine & crew visit youth café A FIRE safety evening at Birstall’s Youth Café took place in September.

“Birstall Youth Café would like to say a huge thank you to Leicestershire Fire & Rescue Service, Birstall HQ, for taking time out of their hectic schedule to visit us at the Youth Café on Wednesday September 6” said a spokesperson for the Youth Café.

“The young people were lucky enough to not only enjoy a safety talk, but also had the opportunity of a tour round their working fire tender and the different type of equipment it contained. I think we all gained massive amounts of knowledge as well as having great fun!

The hot dogs went down a treat too!

“The Youth Workers were all extremely proud of how all the young people conducted themselves and represented Birstall Youth Café, this has led to an invitation from the Fire Officer for the young people to visit the Head Quarters at Hallam Fields in the very near future.

We would also like to extend our thanks to PCSO Mark Butler.”

Birstall Youth Café is run by Birstall

Pic: Fire safety officers visited Birstall Youth Café

Parish Council and is located on the School Lane playing fields. It is open on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 5.30pm – 8.30pm for 8-12 year olds.

The spokesperson said: “The Youth Café often run craft and cooking activities during these sessions, and because we are fortunate to be located in the middle of School Lane Playing Fields, in the good weather, we make the most of this wonderfully maintained open space.

The Youth Café provides free drinks to the young people and have healthy toasties available to purchase as a snack. The first session for new members is free and 50p per session thereafter.

“All youth workers are DBS checked, enthusiastic with what they do and are great fun to be with. Check out Birstall Youth Café facebook page if you are looking for more information or just to find out what we all get up to.”

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Introduction of 30 hours FREE funding The Hunny Hive Day Nursery have been open since November 2016 and are pleased to announce that their team is expanding and the family of Hunny children and parents is growing rapidly. The children have settled superbly and are making rapid progress within their learning and development due to the rich, varied and imaginative experiences planned by the staff.

Due to the introduction of the 30 hours free early education entitlement, the Hunny Hive have planned to open their large, purpose built preschool room to accommodate parents wanting to take advantage of the increased hours of funding. If you would like to know how you can check your eligibility for the 30 hours extended entitlement please contact Mel on 0116 2672039.

The Hunny Hive are also proud to announce that they have listened to the feedback from their parents and the local community and they have decided to hold a holiday club for primary school aged children and an afterschool club from September 2017, picking up from the new Hallam Fields Primary School.

The holiday club will consist of a range of fun, engaging activities and within the larger holidays will include trip days. A booking form will be available prior to the holiday to enable parents and children to see the range of activities on offer. The Hunny Hive would like to take this opportunity to thank their parents for their continued support and look forward to welcoming and supporting more children and families within Birstall and the neighbouring villages.

Here are a few words from the Hunny Hive parents: “Very friendly staff and great environment for the boys, they love it!”

“My child has settled in amazingly and always gets excited when we get to the door in the morning. The staff are friendly!”

“Fantastic, clean, bright. Children are happy and the staff are approachable. Couldn't ask for a better setting for my child to be at. Hasn't cried ever”

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

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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

Guide Dogs Guide Dogs are urgently looking for two legged volunteers in the Leicester area. To this end we are holding a special open evening at Sainsburys Fosse Way Leicester from 7pm on Wednesday 4th October.

Many people are aware of the guide dog service provided to individuals with sight loss, but less are familiar with our sighted guiding support. My Guide is a scheme delivered by volunteers who are matched with a person who is blind or partially sighted and is a key part of our commitment to helping those who can benefit, to re-gain their independence

and start getting out and about.

When you lose your sight, you can often find yourself quickly cut off from people and places around you, and if you’re not able to leave the home without help, you can lose your confidence as well as your fitness.

Our My Guide volunteers help an individual by guiding them to local shops, to a gym or local pool, to a concert or the theatre, or just simply enjoy a walk.

Louise who lives in Leicestershire has very little sight, until she was matched with a volunteer 3 months ago, she was totally reliant on family and friends to do basic shopping and everyday tasks. She hadn’t been further than her local shops, but since meeting Ginette, Louise has visited Fosse Park where Ginette has helped her do a variety of shopping including choosing some new clothes and make-up, which has made her feel so much more confident.

Both Louise and Ginette say that they enjoy the companionship they've gained and in the coming months, they are hoping to visit a number of different places of interest, and even go to the Cinema.

My Guide volunteering is a very fulfilling role which suits anyone who wants to meet new people and to feel they are doing something to help others. Volunteers donate two to three hours a week and have a variety of different interests and backgrounds. Most offer their time having had no previous experience of guiding someone with sight loss, but we provide full training, so this doesn't prevent anyone from getting involved.

Unfortunately, we have a number of people in the Leicester area who are waiting for a sighted guide, and without more volunteers, we are unable to provide this essential help. We particularly want to hear from gentlemen.

If you think this is a role that you might consider, we'd welcome the opportunity to chat with you on 4th October.

We'll be in Sainsbury's Café from 7pm 9pm and it will be an opportunity to find out first-hand what's involved from some of our sighted guide volunteers and our service users.

If you're not able to join us but would like to know more, please contact penny.hefferan@guidedogs.org.uk or call 07881 269586.

Alternatively, you can find further information about sighted guiding on our website www.guidedogs.org.uk.

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Robert Jinks Community Engagement Officer Guide Dogs Central Midlands

Nightly ASB So when are the Police going to get to grips with the constant nightly antsocial behaviour on the Hallam Fields estate?

We see people involved in drugs activity around the lake at the front of the estate and around the walkway between Bridge Green & Harrowgate Drive, along with vehicles driving onto Hallam Fields Road and engaging with the youths and quite opening buying drugs.

We now have the nightly ‘speedway’ of youths racing a circuit down Bridge

Green onto Hallam Fields Road and around the lake on mopeds, with pillion riders with no helmets, we have seen two near misses with pedestrians over the last three nights, I’m convinced it is going to take a serious accident before the Police ‘find the manpower’ to attend more quickly. I’m also convinced that if this activity was taking place around where the Chief Constable of Leicestershire lived it would have been sorted well before now!

Concerned resident

Shocked After reading the letter by Mrs Reid entitled 'Language' and the response provided by Santok Odedra regarding the learning of Gujarati in Birstall's village hall, I wish to commend Santok Odedra for replying in such a calm, eloquent and respectable manner. Personally, I laughed with shock and outrage that a letter such as that of Mrs Reid's could still be written in this day and age.

When I first saw an advert for local lessons in Gujarati, I thought this was a wonderful idea and had it been aimed at adults I would have considered signing up. As a teacher of English myself, I am regularly saddened by my pupils who admit to be unable to communicate efficiently in their families' ancestral languages. What saddens me more, though, is the ignorance of Mrs Reid's post. Does she not realise that the English language is taught to a high standard in every school in the country? Or that English is made up of words from all over the world? Does she not under-

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

YOUR SAY...

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stand that Gujarati is one of many beautiful languages that has just as much right to be learned and spoken in this country? (as Santok Odedra pointed out, many Gujarati speaking citizens are proudly British, born and bred). Does she not appreciate the wonderfully diverse nature of our locality, or the importance in honouring our many cultural connections? Does she not recognise how offensive her words are to anyone who might shop or work in a store like Tescos?! In the wider world, children are brought up to use English just as well as their mother tongue and generally put us Brits to shame.

Finally, is Mrs Reid still under the impression that all immigrants are foreigners who cannot speak English and are therefore unable to contribute to the British economy? She sounds like someone who needs to be educated in the hardships many people face in seeking safety, opportunity and respect in this country because life elsewhere has treated them so cruelly.

Mrs H (a Birstall resident who is proud to come from Leicester, a city famous for being multicultural.)

Bowel cancer screening

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

I was please to read that Andrew Bridgen MP for North West Leicestershire has pledged to become a champion to promote the Bowel Cancer Screening Programme (BCSP). This has been important to me personally as I turned 60 in June this year. Two weeks after my birthday I received an invitation to take part in the BCSP. Following this I was sent a KIT and my first result was 'unclear'. As a result of this I was sent a second test within a week. This came back as 'abnormal' and I was booked into see the specialist BCSP Nurse for a consultation at Glenfield General Hospital Endoscopy Unit.

This terrified me as I thought I could have cancer even though all of the literature sent to me suggested it did not necessarily mean I would have cancer.

With reluctance I agreed to undertake a full colonoscopy one Saturday morning.

I recognise I have a predisposition towards cancer as this has been evident in close family members. I had therefore made active lifestyle choices towards minimising acquiring cancer. But you can never tell what this is likely to be or the exact probability of getting cancer can you? I myself choose not to smoke, drink alcohol nor take non-prescriptive drugs, I modified my diet to NHS guidelines and have taken daily physical activity whilst working and when I retired five years ago. Therefore, I felt I could not have done anything different to improve my chances of not acquiring cancer. I have had a growth or polyp and perhaps this was hereditary I do not know? Anyway for those that may question whether to have the colonoscopy or not, I was persuaded by the Endoscopy specialist nurse it would be in my best interest. I agreed despite my concerns because if anything malignant was found I would be in the right place at the right time for the specialists to do something that would improve my survival chances. As it turned out I did need to have a bowel polyp removed and it was a large one that could have turned cancerous if left longer. The consultant found polyp that was removed on the day. After what seemed a long wait for the biopsy results I was informed the growth was benign and not malignant but because of the size of the polyp I would be kept on the Bowel Cancer Screening Programme and be seen in 36 months.

I feel that it is probable, if the consultant had not had the opportunity to remove the polyp on this day, my life could have been cut short by bowel cancer. Therefore, I would recommend to anyone in the target age group to take part in the screening and follow this

through like I did. Personally I did not recognise anything was wrong with me and perhaps this had been masked by my pre-existing medical condition.

My story should be a wake up call for others as the BCSP team suggested I was the text book case on why people of my generation should take part in the screening programme. I for one have been fortunate. Perhaps the screening programme should commence earlier? I did not think this would happen to me at my age but it has and others may benefit from the research being undertaken.

As I am fully aware for some, the issue of bowel habits and cleanliness may be a great concern but my experience can only be described as excellent care and I will help promote the BCSP. Birstall Resident

Noticeboard all details printed free Birstall Running Club Meet Monday & Friday nights, 6.15 for 6.30 run Birstall School Lane playing fields – showers & toilets available We also meet on a Wednesday night at Sibson Road car park at 6.15pm for 6.30pm run Speed work sessions also available on Wednesdays for those wanting to improve Contact Deryk on dwoods1@sky.com or Bob 07927 346640 www.birstallrc.org.uk

Councillor Surgery Thanks Thank you to everyone who donated £597.97p to LOROS in memory of my husband Alan, also for cards, flowers and those who visited Alan in hospital, LOROS and at home, we are truly grateful.

Doreen Stirk and family

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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 Quilters Welcome you to their

Coffee Morning on Saturday, October 28 at the Methodist Church, Wanlip Lane from 10am to 12noon in aid of Cancer Research UK Enjoy a coffee, chat, the cake stall, craft gifts and raffle – 1st prize a quilt

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Birstall & District Art Society

Birstall’s biggest and best

Bonfire & Fireworks!

Birstall United Juniors FC On Friday November 3 Meadow Lane training ground Gates open 7pm Bonfire starts 7.30pm Fireworks 8.30pm £3 per person on gate (please bring correct change) BBQ/Rides & Stalls No alcohol to be brought on to the site Help raise funds for our new clubhouse!

Birstall Methodist Monday Women’s Group Programme for October 2 Oct Harvest Pudding and Poems plus Harvest Table 9 Oct Network or Amongst Ourselves evening 16 Oct Kinder Falconry and Owls 23 Oct Who would live in a house like this? Brian Johnson 30 Oct Holidays Galore with Roberts Travel All meetings are held in Birstall Methodist Coffee Shop and start at 7.30.

New faces always welcome – contact Eileen (2929670) for further details

Tuesday, 10th October, at 7pm You are invited to join us at the Palmer-Tomkinson Centre at Cedars Academy, Wanlip Lane, to watch exciting professional artist Haideee Jo Summers giving a demonstration in Oils and Acrylic entitled “Marine Landscape”.

Come along and see if you will be inspired to try your hand at this wonderful and fulfilling hobby.

Refreshments available at the interval. Newcomers and visitors most welcome. Demonstration ends at 9pm Members £1; Guests £3. Free raffle. Ample parking and wheelchair access

Birstall library offer a minibus collection and drop off service every 4 weeks. Our driver picks you up and returns you home after your visit to the library, where you can choose your books with help from our volunteers and enjoy a cuppa and a chat in a friendly, social atmosphere.

Our next Omni visits are 18th Oct and 15th Nov. Please contact Birstall Library on 0116 3058756

Film Presentations Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council "Sully: Miracle on the Hudson" Oct 13 (96 mins)

Halloween Cafe Saturday 28th October 2pm - 4.30pm Birstall Scout Hall, Birstall Rd. Fundraising event in aid of ADHD Solutions.

Refreshments, tombola, craft stalls, greeting cards.

Spooky dressing up box for kids.

Parking at Sibson Rd car park

Stallholders needed Attention all small business and craft stall owners.

Birstall Highcliffe Primary School PTA are excited to announce we will be holding a Christmas Fair on Sunday 17th December between 2-5pm. As well as stalls, there will be a spectacular Santa's grotto, festive refreshments, and crafts and entertainment for the children to enjoy and allow the parents a bit of child free shopping time! We are looking for people who would like to have a stall to get in touch with us - we hope to make this a truly festive and fabulous event for the whole community and to do this would love to fill our hall with wonderful wares, so if you'd like to be a part of it then please email highcliffepta@outlook.com for further information

Birstall Library Omni Service Do you enjoy reading, but struggle to get out to the library?

are happy to announce that their annual pantomime will this year be

Mrs Scrooge Based on A Christmas Carol: it promises to be a Dickens of a show with songs and laughs galore to send the audience home happy and ready for Christmas.

The panto goes out on December 15-17th with the Sunday show being a matinee at 2.30pm Early doors bookings are now being taken (call 0116 3192117), ticket prices are pegged at £5 and the venue as usual is Thurmaston Community Centre.

This show is spooky, but suitable for all the family so bring someone to hold onto

Birstall & District Local History Society

This biographical drama is directed and produced by Clint Eastwood. Starring Tom Hanks as the American pilot, Chesley Sullenberger, the film follows the emergency landing on the Hudson River, saving 155 passengers and crew. The subsequent publicity and investigation accuse Sully of unnecessarily ditching the aircraft.

Will he be found guilty of pilot error or did birds cause not one but both engines to fail?

"Lion" Nov 10 (120 mins) Starring Nicole Kidman and Dev Patel, as Best Supporting Actor, "Lion" won a BAFTA for Best Adapted Screen Play. Based on a true story about a five year old street-boy, who fell asleep on a train. He ended up on the streets of Kolkata, one thousand miles away, as an adopted Australian.

Twenty years later, he amazingly remarks, "My mother saw my face after twenty-five years"!

"Their Finest" will be shown on December 8.

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. Advance tickets may be purchased via the parish office –0116 236 7626 or at the door.

The next monthly meeting of the Society is on Thursday 12th October 2017 at 7.30pm in the Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall, Leics.

The subject of the talk is "The History Of Witches And Witchcraft" The speaker will be Sandy Leong.

Visitors are very welcome to join us for this talk.

There will be available parking on the night on the Birstall Playing Fields through the School Lane entrance St Patricks Parish Centre Beaumont Leys Lane

Quiz Come and test your knowledge at our friendly quiz on Saturday 28th October, 7.30pm 6 Rounds With A Theme of Stars, Heavenly & Earthly This & a 2 Course Supper All For £5 Per Person.

Date for your diary: November 18th our Christmas Bazaar A warm welcome to all • Barrow Panto Group presents

The Sound Of Mu…rder

By Andy Hawkes The Sound of Mu...rder by Andy Hawkes is a Murder Mystery about an amateur group rehearsing the Sound of Music which gives the audience an ideal opportunity to

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August 1st V Tate, 2nd G Pope, 3rd S Ball, 4th J Bailey September 1st R Folland, 2nd J Woods, 3rd G Heath, 4th C Winfield

Thurmaston Showstoppers

Help us in our work helping others less fortunate than ourselves

All gifts and donations gladly accepted at the ROYAL BRITISH LEGION 19 FRONT STREET • BIRSTALL

or Ring 2674817

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

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dress to impress in dirndls and lederhosen.

The show is on: Friday 6th October 2017 7.30pm at Humphrey Perkins School.

Tickets are £12 each which includes a two course ploughman’s supper and the chance to interrogate the suspects. Tickets are available from The Paper Shop, Barrow High Street, Barrow Library, North Street Barrow upon Soar and from Paypal at www.busca.org.uk Birstall Methodist Church

Christmas Festival 2017 Theme: “The Spirit of Christmas” Free Admission – Donations to D.N.R.C. (Defence & National Rehabilitation Centre) Friday 24th November 10-6pm Saturday 25th November 10-2pm Decorated trees, models & displays, Christmas Hampers & Gifts, Christmas Decorations, Cakes & Preserves, Crafts & Toys, Pick-aBag, Tombola, Raffle, Santa’s Grotto, Face Painting (Saturday) Hot Dogs & Pancakes, Refreshments, Light Lunches.

Table Tops Friday 2pm – 6pm Saturday 10am – 2pm £10 each – 0116 2671181

Fundraising event

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

18th November at Syston Methodist Church between 10am and 1pm.

We'll have refreshments, games, mendhi and face painting, used toys and lots more.

We're raising money for Preemie and Angel Babies UK who supply hospitals nationwide (including LRI) with items for Preemie and Angel Babies. We have a Facebook page too, Syston Charity Fundraiser.

We'll also be collecting items such cotton wool, white cotton thread, clear packing tape and knitting wool. We'll also be making up a parcel of preemie baby or angel items to send in if anyone can knit or crochet

Vincent 0116 2375156 vincent.mbe82@yahoo.co.uk The Rothley Heritage Trust is a Registered Charity No. 1145397

Film Night

Birstall Flower Club October 25th 2017, 7.15pm Birstall Village Hall Demonstration by Elizabeth Bishop - “A Touch of Eurasian” Visitors welcome - £5 Queries to Sylvia: 0116 2674206 or Mary : 07704398017

Rothley Heritage Trust Presents

“Camille SaintSaens” His Life And Music

By Barry Collett Saturday October 28th 2017 10.30-16.30 The Old School Rooms, School St, Rothley He was a leading composer of the day, a brilliant pianist, organist and orchestrator and also excelled at poetry, botany and a world traveller much concerned with ‘green’ issues.

His music is wonderful and today we will enjoy his prolific output in almost every form of music.

Course Fee £8 (includes morning and afternoon refreshments) Early Enrolment By Post Essential Cheques payable to The Rothley Heritage Trust and sent to Brenda Sutherland, 4 North St., Rothley, Leicester LE7 7NN. Please include name(s), address, ‘phone number and e-mail (if applicable) so that details of the day can be sent to you.

Further information from Marion

Entrance will be £1 to include Coffee/ Tea and biscuits.

Come along and get some early Christmas Presents Everyone is welcome.

All money raised will be used in Breast Cancer Research at Leicester University/Hospitals

Birstall Tea Dances

“Their Finest” A wonderfully entertaining WWII comedy drama starring Gemma Arterton and Bill Nighy St James Church, Church Hill Birstall, LE4 4DN Friday October 13th at 7pm No charge, refreshments available Leicester Branch of Cancer Research UK

Annual Coffee Morning and Sale The Rothley Centre Saturday October 28th, 10am to 12.

Stalls will include Cakes * Books * Bric a Brac * Gifts * Plants * New Toys * Phoenix Cards * Handicrafts * Tombola and Raffle.

Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road Leicester LE4 4DH Fridays 13th & 27th October 2017 3.30 - 5.30pm £4 Each On The Door Tea / Coffee / Cakes Included All Welcomed Further Information Contact Jackie 0116 2248 278 / 07908607405 jackielucas957@hotmail.co.uk Letters and Stitch presents

Half Term Crafting Fun! Thursday 19th October 10am12pm at Birstall Methodist Church.

Pop along for plenty of Halloween festive fun! Each child has the opportunity to decorate their very own 'trick or treat' fabric bag!

Decorate with a range of embellishments and personalise with your own name! £6.00 per child, which includes refreshments and other additional craft activities!

Tea, coffee and cake will be available to purchase and there will be a few stall holders with comple-

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mentary gifts and handmade crafts. For more information and payment details visit Facebook ‘Letters and Stitch – Half Term Crafting Fun!’ or ‘Letters and Stitch.’ williams.fayealicia@gmail.com or 07811069007. All children to be accompanied by adults at all times Stray black and white cat found wandering the back gardens of Curzon Avenue area. Could this be your cat? If so please contact 07905 624617.

Retiring after 33 years at pharmacy A WELL known assistant in a Birstall chemist’s shop has retired after 33 years.

Jacqueline Tate (68) worked at Pharmak on Kingsgate Avenue, serving customers, unpacking stock, doing deliveries and making the tea.

“I will definitely miss the coffees and tea” said pharmacist Ashok Makvana.

“Jackie has been a loyal and dedicated member of staff, always smiling and helpful not only to customers but to other members of the team” he added.

Jackie said: “I’ll miss coming to work and talking to customers and discussing things with them, not just illnesses but everyday things.

“It’s been a very nice team to work with here, friendly, we’re like a family really.”

Pic: Jacqueline Tate with pharmacist Ashok Makvana

Birstall war Library access improved memorial BIRSTALL LIBRARY opening hours could increase following BIRSTALL’S WAR Memorial is on Front Street, within the churchyard of St James’ church.

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Birstall Parish Council is trying to establish who owns the memorial so that any work needed to maintain and improve it can be planned.

If any reader can shed any light on who erected the memorial, and who funded it, they are invited to contact Birstall Parish Council on 0116 2676191.

Lots of opportunities to perform throughout the year Dance for fun or train to a pre- professional standard in a friendly, welcoming environment Graded Examination classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Lyrical, Acrobatics from aged 2 upwards.

Vocal coaching • Tumbling Skills

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0116 2355495

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a planned roll-out of ‘self-access’ technology.

Leicestershire County Council want to introduce the system in 15 libraries across Leicestershire as part of wider plans to save £1.3million.

People who’ve registered to take part would use their library card to access the buildings in order to borrow, return and renew items or use the public computers, wifi and printing and copying facilities. They would be gaining access to the library during hours when no library staff are present.

The move could increase opening hours and follows a successful trial at Syston library. Councillor Richard Blunt, cabinet member for Communities and

Drains unblocked REPEATED COMPLAINTS from residents, Birstall Parish Council and an intervention by the local MP have resulted in Leicestershire County Council clearing blocked drains in the village.

The Cabinet Member for highways, Blade Pain, told the Birstall Post: “The gullies in Birstall and School Lane were cleared by our drainage team on Wednesday August 23 and the gullies in the remainder of Birstall are to be cleared by the end of November”.

Edward Argar MP said: “This is a positive result and I am pleased the county council has listened.

“This will hopefully make a big difference and minimise the risk of flooded roads in Birstall over the coming months.”

Wellbeing said: “Self access technology makes it more convenient for people who work during the day or on shifts, plus parents who want to take their children to the library on the way to school.

“During the four-month trial in Syston opening hours increased by 30 hours a week and a number of people enquired about using the venue for community activities.

“We have a good track record in delivering libraries differently. Despite the financial pressures, the roll-out enables us to extend the benefits seen in Syston to thousands of residents.”

‘Smart’ library technology is expected to save the Council £270,000. The County Council have said a significant amount of the saving would come from a reduction in staff roles.

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

12

Back to basics at Cubs’ camp “Cubs woke early, 4.20 (due to a full JUST AS the cold nights start to draw in Birstall Cubs decidmoon), 5.30, and 6.10 (which was the ed to go on a back to basics weekend camp at Willesley final warning to go back to bed), before Scout campsite. finally rising at 7.30.

Scout Leader Ged Sessions explains: “After pitching their tent and sorting out their sleeping bags the cubs dived into their first team challenge to build some tea light towers in order to spread some light around their tents..

“As the evening turned cold and the night darkened we warmed the boy’s up with hot chocolate before sending them into the blackened forest with torches to search for leaders laden with glow sticks. Then it was off to bed with secret midnight feasts.

“After a hearty breakfast they faced their next challenge, to build a bivouac shelter and light a fire, using flint and steel. Tasks they accomplished with enthusiasm.

“After a quick break their next task was to make their own hiking/walking sticks from natural wood. After cutting them to size and sanding the sharp edges they finished them off with linseed oil to seal and protect them.

“After lunch they donned safety equipment before attacking the 30 meter climbing tower, which some tackled with relish, Ritesh topped out in a flash, without a downward glance.

“Having conquered the wall they dashed off to the woods to throw themselves off another tower on a 50 meter zip line….don’t forget to hold on tight!

“The evening ended as we were invited to a fantastic campfire singsong with Woodhouse Eaves Scout Group as they celebrated their 60th anniversary.

“On Sunday the Cubs awoke a lot later than on Saturday (surprise) and went missing embankment, track and bridges – straight into survival mode as they had to again build a fire and cook their own all of which were removed after the food over a campfire. Burgers, and Great Central Railway was closed as part dough twists being the order of the day of a major rationalisation of the railway followed by chocolate encased bananas network by the Government of the day.

“When the whole project is complete it cooked in their skins, followed by unforgettable toasted marshmallows. All the will create an eighteen mile heritage Cubs had a great time and can’t wait for railway stretching across the East Midthe next camp.” lands which will create jobs and drive Pics: Rohan & Ritesh on the climbing tower; regeneration through tourism.”

Cubs made tea light towers and walking sticks

New bridge unites GCR track A £2.5million bridge has been installed in Loughborough that will reunite two sections of railway track.

The GCR’s Bridge the Gap project will create an 18 mile mainline railway run-

Hot meals delivered

ning from Birstall to Ruddington.

It is expected to increase tourism by attracting an additional 60,000 visitors a year.

The GCR’s CEO Richard Patching said: “The new bridge will one day carry Great Central Railway heritage trains over the tracks of the Midland Main Line below.

As one of the most ambitious civil engineering projects undertaken by a heritage railway, ‘Bridging the Gap’ will reinstate approximately 500 metres of

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

A DELIVERY service of hot meals to homes in Birstall is now available seven days a week.

Kinds of Queniborough have been delivering affordable frozen meals to the community in Leicestershire since 2011 and are a local independent family business.

Spokeswoman Cheryl Kind said: “We are extremely proud of the quality of our meals and feel that our customer service is second to none. We are proud to announce that we are now also delivering hot meals on wheels which is a daily service seven days a week. Breakfast and teatime packs are also available. Our friendly staff are happy to pick up the post, serve the meal on plate or provide a drink, and we offer a free well being check and can contact relatives if any concerns are raised.”

No long term contract is required, the service can be ordered when needed.

Cheryl said: “This could be a few days a week, every day or to help in the early days of coming home from hospital – we are completely flexible to suite your lifestyle.”

– £6.50 for 2 courses per day

Call for a free brochure full of delicious meals

0116 2600741 Ask about our taster pack kindsofqueniborough.co.uk – website & online shop

13

Food bank improving links with Birstall A ROTHLEY food bank is improving its links with Birstall to make food parcels more accessible to local people.

Until recently those in Birstall who the benefits system and the high levels of have needed this facility have had to find personal debt means that demand is a way to get to the Soar Valley Communi- likely to increase in the short to medium ty Food Project at Rothley Baptist church. term.”

Now food parcels will be delivered Donations of food can be made at directly to homes in Birstall and Wanlip local venues – one is planned at St that need them.

James church, other locations are yet to Gill Chester from the NEARER commu- be confirmed but may include Birstall nity, which is linked to the parish of schools.

Birstall and Wanlip, said: “We are really Those who live in Birstall or Wanlip looking forward to partnering with the who would like help from the food bank Soar Valley Community Food Project to can call or text Gill on 07848 144 169. make these parcels of food more accessi- You can also call in at the food bank in ble to local people. person at Rothley Baptist Church on “There will also be donation bins for Woodgate in Rothley on a Monday benon-perishable food items in Birstall, so tween 11am-1pm. that we can all support the project in a Gill said: “It is open to anyone who practical way.” needs help so please pop in for a coffee She added: “Some people say that and meet them and start the journey to a food banks are not necessary in today’s better future.” society. Well there are many people in The Soar Valley Community Ford real need today and they aim to support Project is jointly run by Rothley Parish them in their difficulties. The changes to Church and Rothley Baptist Church.

We provide a friendly & efficient tailored service

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Couple’s prize winning allotment CLIVE & Diane Wood of Loughborough Road, Birstall were awarded first place for best plot at Red Hill allotment open day in September.

The couple have had their allotment for five years. Clive said: “When I retired I thought you can’t just stop, so I took on an allotment. It’s the best thing I ever did, there’s a crowd of great people up here and it’s a wonderful place to be.”

Pic: (top) Clive & Diane Wood on their prize winning allotment

Flower club news DEMONSTRATOR ALISON Glover delighted members of Birstall Flower Club with her presentation at the club’s August meeting.

The title of her demonstration was ‘You Never Know’. Like a lot of people, Alison is a hoarder, and keeps a shed full of flower arranging accessories, because “you never know” when things come in handy. She showed us some wonderful arrangements, gave us a good insight into the flowers, foliate and mechanics whilst entertaining us also with some of the

I. Wardle Maintenance Services (Birstall DIY) Do you need any of the following work carrying out? If so, please phone or email me GARDEN MAINTENANCE: Turf Laid, Mowed & Hedges Cut etc BUILDING REPAIRS/WORK: New Guttering & Repairs INTERIOR WORK: Mirrors Hung & Painting LANDSCAPING: Gravel Drives & Paths Laid FLOORS: Concrete & Laminate Laid

more comical events in her life story.

Alison did seven wonderful arrangements.

If you have a love of flowers and would like to watch someone else do all the hard work, why not join us? For the cost of a raffle ticket, you may even win the flowers in the completed arrangements.

Free estimate with no obligation • 0116 2676478 Email: gillandian@yahoo.co.uk • Mob: 0776 8233552

Pic: Raffle prize winner Diane Greening with one of Alison Glover’s arrangements

FENCING: Erection & Repairs: supply & erect or supply only

From Birstall Flower Club

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

14

15

Girlguiding rocks COLOURFUL PEBBLES designed and painted by Birstall Girl Guides are being placed throughout the village.

The decorated pebbles are part of a project to promote Girlguiding locally and to spread a little happiness.

Brownie Leader Helen Sibson said: “The Birstall Rainbows, Brownies and Guides hope that their pebbles will make people smile.”

Members of the public are invited to interact with the project by looking for pebbles, liking the facebook page Girlguiding Birstall Rocks and posting photos of the pebbles they find. The

Team awards for club page contains pebble photos, links to information about Girlguiding, what volunteers are needed and clues to where you might find the pebbles.

Pupils walk through Birstall for service A LONG LINE of primary school children made their through Birstall as they walked to St James Church for a special service.

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

On September 11, all 357 children from year 1 to 6 at Highcliffe school walked to the church guided by their

teachers and PCSO Mark Butler.

“It was a great sight to see the children walking in a long line through Birstall” said Assistant headteacher Anna Rutherford.

“PCSO Butler was on hand to support us crossing the roads and many motorists were patient to let us by. When we arrived at the church all the children sat in pews waiting to hear what Rev Vince Jupp and Josephine Burgess were going to tell us. We learnt some new songs and discussed new beginnings tying into us starting a new school year. The children did Highcliffe proud and had excellent behaviour. They came up with some heartfelt ideas on how we can have new beginnings and how we can have a great year at school. Thank you to Miss Hardy our RE lead for arranging this special visit, and to PCSO Butler”.

THE LEICESTER Road Running League presentation is on October 6 and Birstall Running Club will be collecting two team awards: Senior Ladies - 3rd in Division One Vet Men Champions of Division 3.

Also there are 4 individual awards going to:John Orgill - 4th Men's Senior, Tim Tickner - 3rd V40 Men, Elisa Whittlestone - 3rd V50 Lady and Jessica Eichel - 1st U20 Lady.

Elisa Whittlestone and Dave Snutch came first in their age categories in the Double or Quit 10 mile run in Derby and Lee Melbourne came first in his age category at the 5 mile Dolgoch Challenge in Towyn.Charlotte Orgill was awarded Birstall’s Runner of the day trophy at the

John Fraser 10 with Gemma Pegg getting the same award at the Carl Rutt 10k and Steve Ball at the Joy Cann 5.

Bill Coltman completed his 250th Park run in his 76th year. “He is an inspiration to us all” said a club spokesman. Lastly well done to all who ran in the Great north run especially to Tim Tickner who came 12th in his age group and 125th overall in a time of 1:18:34 others who ran include: Dave Snutch 1:43, Catherine Jackson - 1:47, Geoff Law - 1:48(PB), Nikki Welyczko - 2:01, Scott Brownlow - 2:12 and Shobha Parmer - 2:37. From Birstall Running Club

Annual competition BIRSTALL ALLOTMENT Society held its annual fruit and vegetable competition in September.

All the produce on show was taken to LOROS at the end of the day for use by their catering staff and the more than £300 raised at the event was donated to the Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance.

Visitors were able to admire the produce grown and to talk to allotment holders about the benefits of having an allotment.

Society Secretary Mary Farrell said: “The committee and members would like to sincerely thank all the local businesses who generously donated prizes, this in no small way helped to make the event a success.”

The prize winning allotmenteers were: Ed Walker, Harvey Joyce, Steve Saunders, Val and Lee Burdett (three categories), Joy and Richard Groom (two categories), Dave Cherry and children’s section winner Reuben Spen-

cer.

If you would like an allotment readers should contact Birstall Parish Council for details.

Lupins Florist

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• If you have a contactless debit/credit card we have wallets for free that you can keep it in. The latest scam is someone walking past you and scanning your card without you knowing, the information can then be used to buy goods.

• Be aware of hoax parcel cards put through your door. Never call a number off the card, this can cost you lots of money (sometimes hundreds of pounds) • Please don't leave items of value in your vehicle. Many vehicles are broken into and items stolen. It is also a good idea to check that your vehicle doors are PERSONAL SAFETY and keeping locked without using the key and to keep your keys well away from the vehicle after your property safe: There are checking. many things that you can do to Above all, be alert and look out for protect yourself, some are obvi- your family, friends and neighbours. The next advice shop is on Saturday October ous and some not so obvious: • Always keep your purse or wallet safe. 21 from 10am until midday at the old council office, opposite the garden centre.

NHW have free purse/wallet chains and We have a wide selection of security items bells that you can attach to your purse/wallet and bag. These are particular- for sale, all sold at cost price. We also ly good if you are somewhere that you are have free items, such as purse chains and bells. not sure of, or don't know very well.

From Birstall & Wanlip NHW • Never keep your driving licence in your purse or wallet. Should it be stolen, Crime Report a thief will have your full name, date of We had a total of 48 crimes reported during August, which is slightly down compared birth and address- this could be used for to July. identity fraud.

Thefts from vehicles continue to be the • Never write your PIN number on a piece of paper and keep it with your card. main issue with another 11 reported this If you cannot remember your PIN number, month. The beat team review every vehicle theft reported, ensuring we check any CCTV & you can change it a cash point machine. complete house to house enquiries to try & • Always be aware of your surroundidentify any offenders. We have also been ings and try not to use short cuts through issuing ‘rear view mirror hangers around the alleyways etc in an area that you don't village which can be hung in your vehicle to know. If you think that you are being try and deter thieves from breaking into them.

If you are issued with one of these, please use followed there are many things that you it as the success of the scheme depends on can do: Keep to well lit areas at night, if the message being spread as widely as possiyou see other people around ask for help ble. or knock on a door that looks like there We have had three house burglaries reportare people in. ed this month and three ‘non-dwelling’ burgla• Never leave items of value on show, ries. One of these occurred on Wanlip Lane either when you are out or at home. If when a shop was broken into during the early you are on holiday be extra careful- wear- hours with a large quantity of cigarettes being ing lots of jewellery can make you a target. stolen. Some suspects have been identified in • It is a good idea to carry a personal relation to this incident and it is believed they have been involved in a number of break-ins alarm when you are on your own, but around the County, so we are hopeful that don't leave it in your bag or pocket.

NHW news

& crime report

there will be sufficient evidence to prosecute

them in relation to some, if not all of the offences. The vast majority of the other reported crimes this month are shop thefts (five in total) and reports of vehicles being damaged (of which we have had seven).

For further crime information please visit: www.police.uk/leicestershire/NL60/ Crime Prevention Advice There have been several media reports recently about crimes being committed by people riding mopeds, who pull up alongside their victims & snatch mobile phones & bags before riding off at speed. The riders will almost certainly be wearing helmets, which makes them impossible to identify & quite often the bikes are displaying stolen or false registration plates. Thankfully this appears to mainly be happening in big cities & we have not had any reports here in Birstall, however this is not to say that we won’t have any. To avoid becoming a victim, always be aware of your surroundings & if you are using your phone & you hear a moped or motorbike approaching consider taking the phone away from your ear momentarily so that it is less easy to snatch. Also, if possible it is worth considering wearing bags ‘across the body’ as opposed to just ‘over the shoulder’ as this again makes them harder to steal.

Neighbourhood update We have created a new ‘Beat Priority’ looking at the issues with noisy vehicles as despite a lot of work around this issue in recent months the problem appears to be continuing.

We’ve also had a number of complaints recently about dogs being off leads, being aggressive and attacking other dogs & cats.

Please remember that you are responsible for keeping your dog under control at all times & they must be kept on leads whilst on the parks. Full details are available on the Parish Council website, which also contains a link to Charnwood Borough Council: http://www.birstallparishcouncil.org.uk/parksand-gardens.html You can also report dog control issues to Charnwood Borough Council if you are concerned about an aggressive dog or an irresponsible owner.

Meet your local police team; Sibson Road Beat Office. Saturday 21st October (both 10am – 12pm).

Crime Figures Aug 2017 Assaults – 6 Burg Dwelling – 3 Burglary non-dwell – 3

Damage to vehicles – 7 Other damage – 5 Drugs offences -1 Fraud – 0 Public order offences – 1 Robbery -1 Sexual offences -1 Theft - 9 Theft of cycle -0 Theft from vehicle -11 Theft of vehicle – 0 From 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

Western show HIGHCLIFFE AMATEUR Theatrical Society’s next production has been written by two members of HATS, Phillip Walton and Elaine Hunt.

‘Paint the Town Red’ is an original script with a Wild West theme that will take you back to the days of the old westerns.

Dates: Thurs Nov 23 and Fri Nov 24 at 7.15pm, Sat Nov 25 at 2.30pm & 6.45pm Doors open 30 mins before each performance Venue: Highcliffe Primary School, Birstall LE4 3DL Tickets £6, £5 concession, £20 family ticket Discounts for group bookings, price on enquiry Box Office: 0116 2216019, 07963432020 and 0116 2259122 Email: hatsbirstall@hotmail.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/hatsa mdram/

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

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Take up singing LOCAL MEN are being encouraged to take up singing with a locally based chorus.

“Due to the overwhelming success of this year’s learn to sing course in February and the added attraction of “ Pitch Battle “ on TV we are holding another course in September through October” said Jan Hunt from the Heart of England Chorus.

The free 'Learn to Sing in Harmony' course is being held at the Birstall Social Club, Wanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4JS. Aimed at both newcomers and those who have not sung for a while, the course aims to encourage more men, young and old, to take up singing which is increasingly acknowledged as being an aid to a healthy lifestyle.

Jan said: “There are many men who would love to sing but most never get around to trying, don’t have the opportunity or maybe are too selfconscious to give it a go but the simple fact is that just about everyone can sing. Attendees learn within a group

which makes it less daunting, there are no embarrassing public auditions and it’s free!

“With the professional help of our Musical Director Ian Phillips and Assistant MD Christine Dickens participants will be helped to discover their voice, learn the techniques of making the most of it and how to use it in four-part harmony with others. There’s no need to worry about reading music as the teaching methods employed are designed to help quickly learn the specially-commissioned song.

“For men who haven't sung for a few years this course is the perfect way to ease their vocal chords back into action. Regular singers may also find the course useful to learn different voice parts, in a relaxed and friendly environment.”

The course will run from 7-30pm to 10pm. All the material will be provided with access to course teaching materials.

Contact: P.J.Hunt Secretary 0116 2675 339 email: jansbolt@btinternet.com

Care home donation BIRSTALL’S CEDAR Mews Care Home has presented Admiral Nurses for Leicestershire with a cheque for £800 raised from their Summer Fete in July.

“Cedar Mews is very proud to be supporting a very worthy cause which will have a huge impact on families living with dementia in Leicestershire” said Ben Dalgetty, Cedar Mews’ Admissions Advisor. He added: “We are huge supporters of the Admiral Nurses for Leicestershire fundraising group and believe very strongly that getting an Admiral Nurse here in Leicestershire will be a great help to families living with dementia. It is very possible to live well with dementia and the Admiral Nurses are there to support families and individuals in making this easier.”

Helen Cooke, Cedar Mews’ General Manager said: “Local community causes are very important to us as a care home and we strive to support as many as we can. Dementia care is a cause very close to our hearts – both as a care home and on an individual level.

ALARMS Established 25 years

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It is wonderful to be able to assist an amazing fundraising group and we will continue to support them.”

Pic: Ben Dalgetty (ctr) at the presentation to Admiral Nurses

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

THE ST James church summer fayre was held on the church lawn in August and raised funds for Birstall Bags, Admiral Nurses, One Roof Leicester and the church.

Our picture shows Steven and Leon Garlick enjoying some candy floss

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Club remembers local bowler A BENCH dedicated to the memory of a local bowler has been presented to St Margaret’s Co-Operative Bowls Club on Birstall Road.

The seat is dedicated to the memory of Margaret Murphy, who died three years ago, and was presented to the club by her daughter Kathy Lord and son John Murphy.

Margaret started bowling in 1992 when the club first opened to ladies. For many years she was the club catering officer. Her daughter explained: “Bowling was a huge part my mother's life.

She was closely involved with many events over the years and we used to say

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she virtually lived at the club.”

Club members gathered for the presentation with many expressing fond memories of Margaret. Particular mention was made of her beautiful flower arrangements for club events and superb trifles which were enjoyed by all.

Pic: (l-r) Club president Val Funnell, daughter Kathy Lord, son John Murphy, Margaret's friend and bowling partner Ella Grant and club vice president Brenda Gamble.

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THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Nov 4.

The copy deadline is Oct 20.

Tel: 0116 260 7716 Mob: 07770 785400 Email: dave@dave-hutchings.com Website: www.dave-hutchings.com

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

Call David Jackson on 0781 5519490 to arrange your EPC

33 BIRSTALL and Wanlip WI members met on September 4 at Elmfield Hall for their first meeting after the summer break.

We caught up on past activities including a trip to see the excellent Miss Saigon at the Curve and applause for our very successful quiz team of Jane, Helen, Sandra and Kath.

Members will be helping to judge the annual ‘Bake Off’ at the White Horse and we still join the residents at Cedar Mews Care Home for a monthly ‘Craft and Chat’ session.

Our speaker was Christine Farmer who talked to us about her amazing collection of masks. She started her talk by showing us her first mask given to her 60 years ago by her future husband. She has collected masks from her travels all over the world and wove her talk around her personal adventures and the individual purposes of each mask. It is often surprising how little we know about our speaker’s subjects and how much we learn from their talks. Photographs of Christine’s masks can be viewed on our Facebook or Federation website pages.

We next meet on October 2 when we welcome back Caroline Roberts with ‘More stories about Leicester’ and the competition is a ‘Leicestershire Souvenir’.

From Birstall & Wanlip WI

Bowls club AN OPEN day and bowls marathon at Birstall Bowling Club raised around £2000 for a local charity.

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DAVE HUTCHINGS Brickwork • Patios Re-pointing Tiling • Plaster Patching • Fencing etc

37 - 39 Station Road Cropston, Leicester 0116 2362363

P/17/1901/2: the Coach House, School Lane – six car garage and games room extension P/17/1862/2: Unit 3, 121 Sibson Road – display of 1 internally illuminated fascia sign and 1 internally illuminated projecting sign to building P/17/1804/2: 37 Iris Ave – The erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 4m, with a max height of 2.5m, and height to the eaves of 2.5m.

P/17/1839/2: 162 Birstall Rd – loft conversion with front and rear dormers to dwelling P/17/1829/2: 31 Tempest Rd – erection of 2 storey extension to side, single storey extension to rear of dwelling and new front porch.

P/17/1823/2: 15 Roman Rd – proposed single storey extension and change from flat roof to pitched roof to side of property and erection of detached garage P/17/1805/2: 166 Birstall Rd – erection of front porch following demolition P/17/1796/2: 88 Blenheim Rd – proposed single storey to front & side and single storey pitched roof above porch to front of dwelling P/17/1760/2: 10 Hawthorn Ave – erection of single storey extension to side/rear of dwelling P/17/1743/2: 58 Elmfield Ave – erection of 2 storey extension to side of dwelling P/17/1756/2: 5 Holt Rd – erection of single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 6m, with a max height of 3.8m and height to the eaves of 2.8m

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Club members and visitors played for a total of 12 hours with donations and sponsorship from the day being added to the ongoing total for the chosen charity of this year’s club Presidents Madeline Stuart-Reid and John Jenkins - the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance.

Meanwhile, Birstall Ladies Bowling Club members won two county titles and were runners up in two more at the county finals day last month.

Jennie Groves claimed the singles title with victory over Jamie Winch (Kingscroft), and Pa Walker won the Champion of Champions by beating Coalville’s Jacquie Watson. Jennie & Di Hurst lost out to Jan Elliott and Carol Dixon (New Lount) in the pairs, while Jennie and Di, along with Rosemary Groves and Jan Everitt were beaten by a New Lount team skipped

by Lynn Green in the fours final.

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

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Group aims to restore headstone THE HEADSTONE of a Birstall man buried in Belgrave cemetery has been laid flat and a conservation group are trying to trace the next of kin so it can be restored.

The headstone marks the grave of Alderman Richard Hallam (pictured below) who was elected Mayor of Leicester in 1935 and lived at ‘Hillsborough’ on Tempest Road, Birstall.

Dorothy Marshall from the Friends of Belgrave Cemetery said: “Opened in 1881 the cemetery contains many fine memorials, unfortunately due to mother nature, gravity and Leicester City Council memorial health and safety team many of these fine stones are now laid on the ground.

Since their formation the Friends have organised the repair of 60 stones.

“The headstone commemorating the death of Alderman Richard Hallam JP, founder of the primary school on Anstey Lane, now lies flat. It is the aim of the Friends to restore this beautiful headstone to its rightful upright position therefore we seek permission from relatives of this gentleman.”

From Leicester City Council archive Councillor Hallam was elected 9 November 1935 as Leicester's ninth Lord Mayor. Son of Richard Hallam of Belgrave where he was born 1 September 1871 and descended from an old branch of the family whose connection with Birstall can be traced back by the parish and other records for at least two centuries. Like his predecessor, Ald. Grimsley, he has experienced difficult days. His infancy was passed amid surroundings of deep depression, his mother having been left a widow, nobly struggled to maintain her family with bare necessities of life. The first rudiments of his meagre education were obtained in the infant school founded by the generosity of the Misses Ellis and later at the Belgrave National School, where under the head mastership of Mr. John Grewcock he made considerable progress. Leaving school at the age of twelve, he entered into the Boot and Shoe trade as a clicker, was for a time employed by the late Ald. Stephen Hilton, mayor in 1904, and eventually, at the age of twenty-four, he commenced business in partnership with Mr. Thomas B. Howard, who died in 1914.

In June 1918, a vacancy having occurred in No. 12, or Belgrave Ward, caused by Councillor Samuel Hudson being raised to the Aldermanic bench, Mr. Richard Hallam was duly elected as one of the Ward representatives in place of Mr. Hudson, a seat he has continued to hold in the Liberal interest ever since.

He has been a very active worker on the Council, the Education Committee of which he is Vice-Chairman forming the field and perhaps the chief scope for his greatest achievements. He has served on the Finance Committee, the Watch Committee and is Chairman of the City Mental Hospital Visiting Committee, also as a Magistrate for the City. Councillor Hallam has for years been a Sunday school teacher and local preacher in the cause of Methodism. He married in 1898 Harriett daughter of Ald. Stephen Hilton already referred to, she died in 1902, and by whom he had issue one son and a daughter. Residence 1935: "Hillsborough," Tempest Road, Birstall, Leicester.

Anyone with an interest can contact Dorothy Marshall on 0116 2672018 or visit www.friendsofbelgravecemetery.org.uk

THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

News from the churches MANY CHURCH and community activities start up again in October as a look at the forthcoming programme will show: Oct 1: Harvest All Together Service at St. James 10am Harvest Evensong at Our Lady and St. Nicholas (Wanlip) 6pm Oct 15: Thanksgiving Sunday (All services) Oct 13: The first of our Film Nights at St. James (7pm) "Their Finest", a world war 2 comedy drama.(free entry) Oct 29: Fifth Sunday Special, a service with a difference at Wanlip 6pm.

Don't forget too the very successful Old Nick's Coffee Shop on the 17th (the 3rd Tuesday of each month 10am - 12noon.) All are welcome at any of these events.

The parting words of Revd Anne Crosby last month concluded with: "It has been a delight to get to know the people of Birstall and Wanlip". We hope that a recent arrival in Birstall, Rev'd Michael Webb, a retired priest, will experience the same feeling as he settles here and joins our ministry team. We are also to be joined for the month of October by a young man seeking experience of work in a parish before possible ordination.

From Birstall Parish churches Methodist Christmas Festival Plans Plans are being put into action for the 2017 Christmas Festival taking place at the

church on Wanlip Lane on Friday 24 (10am to 6pm) and Saturday 25 (10am to 2pm) of November. The biggest change will be the absence of the marquee which, in past years, we have kindly borrowed from the Scouts and pitched between the two buildings. It was felt that now the pews have been removed from the worship area, there would be room in that extensive area for both the creative displays and the stalls which in past years had been in the marquee.

Also there will be no one ‘on the door’ to collect donations for admittance. Instead there will be opportunities to give throughout the church with part of the proceeds from such donations going to this year’s chosen charity which is the new ‘Defence & National Rehabilitation Centre’ which is in the final stages of construction at Stanford Hall near Loughborough. It is due to open in 2018. The remainder of the proceeds will be for church funds.

The theme for the 2017 Festival is “The Spirit of Christmas”. This theme can be expressed in a whole variety of ways (decorated trees, flower arrangements, displays, models and scarecrows – or in any other way) which can be admired by visitors on both Friday & Saturday. Businesses, individuals, groups etc are all invited to take part creatively.

As well as a huge selection of the very popular Christmas hampers, there will be other items for sale including cakes, make-

up, perfume, jewellery, toys, books, sweets etc. In addition there will be tombola, raffle, and the coffee shop will be open throughout.

Table Tops & craft stalls are fully booked for Saturday, but a few spaces remain for Friday (2pm to 6pm) in the concert hall. Phone Margaret (2671181) to book a table.

New Names In The Methodist Pulpit Following the merger with Trinity Circuit, a number of new names appear to preach on Sundays in October. Full list is on the back page of this edition of the Birstall Post.

There will be an opportunity to meet the new Circuit Superintendent, Rev Edson Dube, when he visits on Sunday evening October 8 at 6pm.

From Birstall Methodist Church

Sunday Services We meet in the Community Room at Highcliffe Primary School, Greengate Lane (LE4 3DL) on Sundays at 10.45am for our morning services (except for the 22nd, which is half-term for the school; please ring for arrangements on this day). Please come along and join with us to hear the ‘Good News’: you will be most welcome.

There is a Sunday School for junior children during the second part of the service.

Harvest Thanksgiving This is on Sunday 1st October at 10.45am at Highcliffe. The visiting speaker is Dr. Simon Harrison (Leicester). We give you a warm invitation to join with us.

Lecture on Martin Luther

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

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

Box outline £1 extra. Max 50 words. Phone numbers count as one word.

AMLI DESIGN Architectural Consultancy. Plans drawn and submitted.

Extensions, conversions, new build. David Ives B.Sc.(Hons) FBEng MCIOB 0116 2674395 / 07974807111 www.amlidesign.co.uk PERENNIALS Autumn planting.

Some in flower, some to flower, crocosmia, astilbe, hellebore, sea holly, grasses, bamboo, miscanthus. Phone 0116 2671181 or 07816198622

THE BIRSTALL POST YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Unit 109, Greenacres, The Sidings, Leicester LE4 3BR Editor: Mr Jerry Jackson Editorial/Advertising

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

editor@birstallpost.co.uk www.birstallpost.co.uk

The November issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Nov 4.

The copy deadline is Oct 20.

Details were given last month about the significance of the work of Martin Luther and the Reformation which are being celebrated this year, the 500th anniversary.

The nearest commemorative event to Birstall is the lecture, entitled “God’s Volcano”, to be given on Thursday October 5 at 7.30pm by Pastor David Fielding from Derby. The meeting is hosted by Shepshed Word of Life Church, Kirkhill, LE12 9PA. The event is free and you are most welcome to attend.

Stanton Lees Report The gathering for the Annual Bible School was as enjoyable and rewarding as ever. Ian Parry (from Cardiff) spoke from 2 Chronicles on ‘The Presence of God’ and gave the historical lecture on ‘The Forward Movement’ (the taking of the Gospel to the South Wales mining and industrial communities from 1891, resulting in 48 churches and 40,000 worshippers over the following 15 years). Dr. Tim Trumper (from Grand Rapids, Michigan) spoke from Acts on ‘Encourage One Another: the Example of Barnabas’: covering practical, emotional, spiritual and personal encouragements.

The talks can be heard at: http://www.stantonleeschapel.org.uk/sermo ns/.

For further information about BIBC please ring 0116 2214883.

From Anne Taylor, Birstall Independent Baptist Church

Birstall BAG’s cancer corner IN OCTOBER Birstall BAG’s, working with PROSTaid and the UHL, are launching a new group for people affected by Prostate Cancer.

To help set the scene a member of the UHL Urology Clinical Nurse Specialist team has written this article for Birstall Post about Prostate Cancer.

The prostate is a gland only found in men. It is usually the size and shape of a walnut and sits underneath the bladder and surrounds the urethra, which is the tube men urinate (pee) and ejaculate through. Its main job is to help make semen – the fluid that carries sperm.

Normally the growth of all cells is carefully controlled in the body. As cells grow old and die, new cells take their place. Cancer can develop when cells start to grow in an uncontrolled way. If this happens in your prostate, you have prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK. In the UK, about 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in their lives.

And you’re more likely to get prostate cancer if you’re aged 50 or over, you are Black, or your father or brother has had it.

Most prostate cancer grows slowly or doesn’t grow at all. It may never cause any problems or shorten a man’s life. But some prostate cancer grows quickly and is more likely to spread to other parts of the body and cause problems. This needs treatment to help prevent it spreading outside the prostate.

Most men with early prostate cancer don’t have any symptoms. Some men have had tests for prostate cancer because they had urinary problems. But urinary problems are usually caused by other things that aren’t cancer.

Prostate cancer is diagnosed using a number of tests.

PSA This is a blood test that measures the amount of prostate specific antigen (PSA) in your blood. PSA is a protein produced by normal cells in your prostate and also by prostate cancer cells.

It’s normal to have a small amount of PSA in your blood, and the amount rises as you get older DRE This is where the doctor or nurse feels your prostate through the wall of the back passage (rectum). They’ll feel your prostate for any hard or lumpy areas and to get an idea of its size.

Prostate Biopsy This involves using thin needles to

take small pieces of tissue from the prostate. The tissue is then looked at under a microscope to check for cancer.

MRI Scan An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan uses magnets to create a detailed picture of your prostate and the surrounding tissues. You might have an MRI scan to find out if the cancer has spread. In some hospitals you might have an MRI scan before a biopsy. This can help your doctor see if there is any cancer in your prostate and where it might be.

Bone Scan A bone scan can show whether any cancer cells have spread to your bones.

A small amount of a safe radioactive dye is injected into a vein in your arm before you have the scan. If there is any cancer in the bones, the dye will collect in these areas and show up on the scan.

Sometimes only one of the above tests is required and sometimes all of the above are required.

The results of the tests will;• Determine if there is cancer present.

• Give a grade to the cancer using a scale called the Gleason grading scale. This gives an indication of how fast the cancer maybe growing.

• A stage of the cancer to see if the cancer has spread outside of the gland to lymph nodes or bones.

There are different treatments for prostate cancer.

You may have a choice of treatments and this will depend on the stage of your cancer.

Active Surveillance - is a way of monitoring slow-growing prostate cancer, rather than treating it straight away. The aim is to avoid unnecessary treatment,

or delay treatment and the possible side Cancer for men in Leicestershire and effects.

Rutland, they have set up groups in Surgery – Prostatectomy - This various locations in the county to provide help and support to men with Prosinvolves removing the whole prostate. tate Cancer. They have recognised a Surgery may be a treatment option for need for a group in the Charnwood area. men with localised prostate cancer.

PROSTaid have recently teamed up External Beam Radiotherapy - External beam radiotherapy uses high ener- with The BIRSTALL BAGS who have established a number of successful groups in gy X-ray beams to treat prostate cancer. the area. Birstall BAG’s are keen to work Brachytherapy - Permanent seed with PROSTaid and help to establish a brachytherapy involves implanting tiny similar service for men with Prostate radioactive seeds into your prostate Cancer. gland. This is also called low dose rate Therefore a group will be held at brachytherapy. Radiation from the seeds Birstall Golf club once a month and will destroys cancer cells in the prostate. provide support, information and a place You may have this treatment on its own or together with external beam radiother- for men to meet socially, to share their experiences and talk generally about apy or hormone therapy. their disease and the effects of treatment.

Hormone Therapy - usually given by The group also welcomes tablets and/or injections. This medicapartners/friends as they are also often tion reduces the amount of the male affected by the disease. hormone testosterone which feeds prosAs a new group we are open to tate cancer, enabling the prostate cancer ideas on how the group is ran and used to become dormant.

A decision of which treatment is given and what and who you would like to be involved. There will be a launch evening is made depending on the stage and being held at Birstall Golf Club, Station grade of cancer but often men are given Road, Birstall, Leics, LE4 3BB on a choice of any of the above treatments.

Wednesday October 4, 7pm – 9pm to A consultant and specialist nurse will discuss this further. If you are interested help a patient decide on what treatment in joining us on the launch night or is best suited for them.

Which treatment a patient choses may would like to know more about the depend on several factors. All treatments group going forward then please contact NICKI on 01162584490. for prostate cancer usually do have side For further information: effects and this can often effect a pahttp://www.cancerresearchuk.org tient’s decision. These include urinary University Hospitals of Leicester Canproblems, erectile dysfunction and bowel cer Information Centre on 0116 258 problems.

6189 Some men say being diagnosed with For more information on the funds Prostate Cancer changes the way they we have raised, projects we support and think and feel about life. Men that have forthcoming events see just been diagnosed often feel scared, worried, stressed, helpless or even angry. www.birstallbags.co.uk Contact the BAG’s by email Help & support: new local group There is a lot of help and support out birstallbags@hotmail.com Birstall BAG’s Registered Charity there for men with Prostate Cancer and Number 1160190 often men feel the need to go outside of the family for this help and support.

PROSTaid is a local charity that offers support and raises awareness of Prostate

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THE BIRSTALL POST OCT 2017

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