Birstall Post (415) February 2018

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

FEBRUARY 2018

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 415

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Pic: the cast of Paint the Town Red

Darn good cowboy panto SANTA WAS kidnapped, had his presents stolen and got tied up in a cave in Highcliffe Amateur Theatrical Society’s production of Paint the Town Red in December.

Sue Withers from HATS said: “ We tried something very different this time.

We veered away from the traditional to bring you something new and exciting.

Two of our cast worked hard to produce something that would capture your attention, whilst making you think about what might happen.

“The audience didn’t have the benefit of knowing the story, so could not predict what would happen next.

“The innovative journey of taking you back in time to the cowboys and the saloon bar certainly kept your attention to the very end. As with all pantomimes there was a good deal of audience participation, and yes as predicted in our promotional article, this was something for the adults to relive from their childhoods. So, who was the loudest in the audience, the children? “Oh not it wasn’t”. The adults “Oh yes it was”. The gleam in the adults eyes as they saw the

cowboys on stage, enjoying it to the full, whilst pretending they were there only there to accompany their children/grandchildren.

“But hey, as predicted, lots of unexpected characters including, a nun, a Scottish family, an Indian squaw, medicine man, drunk, comedy couple, dame and the nasty cowboys. Booooooo. Not forgetting Santa, who was kidnapped, had the children’s presents stolen and got tied up in a cave.

“But it all came good in the end, Santa was set free and the children had a good time. There was even some romance going on.”

Facebook reviews included: “I thoroughly enjoyed the show. Lots of laughs the whole night through. Loved it” Gareth Watson “Good fun was had by all, special mention to the dynamic duo Geek and Gonk, they bounce off each other like a

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married couple” Joe William “All in all you have entertained us with a smashing performance” Helen Bauer

2

Explosion: homes abandoned Around 11 houses have been abandoned following the gas explosion in December, with many more damaged, including some in Keswick Close.

Householders have been warned that structural damage can take several weeks to become apparent within the property, in the form of cracks in walls and ceilings.

Plans for 10 new homes Birstall food parcels DEVELOPERS JELSON Homes want to build 10 new homes on the plot of land next to the new Hallam Fields primary school.

The site was previously identified as part of the land required for the new school but was not needed and remains under the ownership and control of Jelson Homes.

Some residents who live nearby have objected to the plans. They say they were reassured this site would be left undeveloped when they bought their homes, that it will spoil the view, increase traffic and put pressure on car parking spaces.

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PLANS ARE in place to open a food parcel collection point in Birstall.

It will be located at the Birstall Methodist church coffee shop on Wanlip Lane, opposite Riverside school, and will provide food parcels to those in the community in need.

The facility is being supported by the Soar Valley Community Food Project. It started in 2014, is based at Rothley Baptist Church and is jointly run by Rothley Parish Church and Rothley Baptist Church.

Birstall’s food parcel collection point is expected to open in late March, and be open on Tuesday morning each week.

Spokesman Peter Molesdale said: “In order to operate this venture over 20 volunteers have been recruited locally through publicity in the December 2017 edition of the Birstall Post.

It is very encouraging that so many people have responded and are keen to help.”

Before the food collection point opens food parcels can be delivered to people in Birstall by prior arrangement. The collection point is a joint venture between the Anglican and Methodist churches in Birstall. For further information contact Gill Chester (07832299671) or Pete Molesdale (07984410618). The foodbank at Rothley Baptist Church (on Woodgate) is open each Monday between 11am and 1pm.

Birstall Co-op Food Store have set up a shopping trolley for people to make donations of food.

Pics: (top) abandoned homes on Allington Drive & (right) the seat of the explosion

Residents are also concerned about the integrity of the gas supply to their properties. The explosion was caused by “the catastrophic failure of an internal gas pipe joint in the floor of the property”, according to Leicestershire Fire & Rescue Service following an initial investigation. There are reports of houses on the estate having their gas pipes laid within their concrete foundations these may be corroded or have had their integrity compromised by the blast, or ground movement over time.

The Health & Safety Executive began a forensic investigation in December into what caused the failure of the internal gas pipe. In the meantime, residents are living with the uncertainty of not knowing if their gas supply is sound or of they will have to pay for a new supply to their homes.

A Charnwood Borough Council spokesman said: “The supply of gas is not the responsibility of the borough council. If there are any safety issues

relating to the gas supply to homes then we would advise residents to contact their supplier.

“Our building inspectors were on site at Birstall following the explosion to look at structural issues with the buildings in the area and ensure steps were taken so the structures did not pose an immediate danger to the public.

“No-one has raised an issue about the gas pipes with the Council.”

• Janet Jasper (79), who lived in the house next door to the explosion with her husband John, died following the explosion. Her Requiem Mass took place at St Theresa’s, Birstall on Friday January 26 at 11am, followed by a committal at Loughborough crematorium.

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BADLY DAMAGED homes on Allington Drive will take months to repair with some residents not expecting to return until this summer.

Faulty drains fixed FAULTY DRAINS along Sibson Road that result in flooded areas after heavy rain are set to be fixed this month.

One particularly bad spot is near the LOROS shop where a 15 metre section of the parking layby is often under water.

Pressure from Birstall Parish Council which included arranging a site visit with MP Edward Argar and repeated letters to the County Council have resulted in the County Council agreeing to do the work.

An initial inspection of the drains found that clearing out debris and some repair work was necessary.

The work will be done over five days commencing February 19. There will be some restrictions on parking and unloading along the entire length of Sibson Road during the work.

Chair of Birstall Parish Council Ann Marshall said: “I am very relieved this work is being done as we have had to put up with terrible flooding for a considerable length of time.”

• Problems with the sewage pipes on School Lane are resulting in raw sewage being carried up through manhole covers and drains into the street.

The pipes, repeatedly partially blocked with tree roots, are the responsibility of Severn Trent.

New link road features in plan A PLANNED new link road that goes from the A46 at Syston down the eastern side of the city then heads westward to join the M1 features in a new growth plan for the county.

The A46 Expressway is described as “absolutely critical” in the Strategic Growth Plan which has been developed by the County Council, City Council and seven district authorities.

The new road would begin on the A46 near Birstall and join the M1 at a new junction 20a, about 5 miles south of J21. It is described as being a critical feature of the “A46 Growth Corridor” that would see the construction of 40,000 new homes and additional new jobs.

The Plan estimates that Leicester and Leicestershire needs 96,000 new homes by 2031 to met the demand for housing, then a further 90,000 dwellings by 2051.

In Charnwood Borough this would be a total of 40,000 new homes. In 2011 there were a total of 66,500 homes in Charnwood.

The Plan also includes allocations for employment land and road and rail improvements across the county. It is currently out for public consultation until April 5.

Cllr Trevor Pendleton, chair of the Strategic Growth Plan Members’ Advisory Group, said: “This is a long-term overall plan for the city and county, looking at how we can best accommodate investment and growth. We need national funding, particularly for infrastructure, so that we can grow and prosper – this is why we need this plan.

“We’re asking people whether they agree with the priorities the Government is asking us to deliver, such as delivering new housing, focusing growth in key areas and identifying essential transport infrastructure that will be needed in the

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“It’s important to stress that no decisions have yet been made, but we do have to plan ahead and identify areas for future growth, which would then be built into our Local Plans at the appropriate time.

“We know that some of these proposals will be controversial, but that’s why we’re having this consultation – to gather people’s views.” City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby has been reported as saying: “”The alternative to the A46 Expressway is chaotic and un-coordinated development that could have a damaging effect on all communities in Leicestershire.

“The number of houses will still be needed but developers will build them in

a less co-ordinated way.

“What we and all the other councils have done is put together a growth plan that we feel helps us meet the demand for new housing land in the best way.

The A46 expressway helps us achieve that as well as creating a major piece of new national infrastructure to connect the South West and the North East.”

Supporters of the A46 Expressway say construction of the road should start in the next 10-15 years, but they will have to overcome the likely objections from affected communities and get the government to agree to the huge construction costs.

To take part in the consultation visit llstrategicgrowthplan.org.uk.

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New bridge over A6

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A BRIDGE over the A6 for pedestrians and cyclists will be built by developers Jelson.

The March issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Mar 3.

The copy deadline Feb 16.

concrete. The span is 49.5 metres.

It will form an extension of Hallam Walk on the western side of the A6 and will provide a direct link from the development to the park and ride site.

The bridge will be constructed near to the park and ride site’s exit road.

Planning permission for the bridge was first granted in March 2015 and not used.

In January 2018 Jelson submitted a plan-

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HIGHCLIFFE PRIMARY school’s Greengate building is being opened to the public on Saturday February 10 to give people a chance to have a last look around before it is demolished later this month. www.raktailorhomeimprovements.com

Highcliffe PTA have organised the ‘Goodbye Greengate’ event. “It will be a chance for people past and present to pop in and have one last final look around the building” said spokeswoman Jo Walton-Booth.

“We are also hoping to dig out some old photos of years gone by and would love people to bring any old memorabilia or photos of their time at Highcliffe so we can add to a scrapbook to show the children in years to come” she added.

On the day visitors will be able to buy items that will not be moving into the new building. This will include parquet flooring, classroom tables and chairs, meeting room tables, doors, shelving, cupboards, staffroom furniture and display boards.

Items will be available to take away on the day or reserve for collection the

following week. All proceeds will be reinvested into new school facilities or equipment.

Visitors will be offered the chance to ‘buy a brick’ as a keepsake, with the opportunity to donate your brick with your family name included, back to the school to create a sculpture/playground accessory that will be sited next to the new building.

The event runs from 11am to 2pm on Saturday February 10.

• The Greengate building was erected in the 1950s and is being demolished and replaced with a new building containing six classrooms, a technology suite and a studio. It will be completed in September 2018.

Some pupils will be taught at Hallam Fields school during the build. The Elmfield Avenue building will remain open.

Pic: an artist’s impression of the new building, which will open this September

THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2018

The bridge is a condition of the planning permission Jelson were granted for the creation of the Hallam Fields development, to be completed before 750 houses of the 900 planned are occupied.

The proposed bridge is a single span footbridge/cycleway made of steel and

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Sibson Road CCTV a priority, says group BIRSTALL BUSINESS Co-operative has agreed that the provision of CCTV cameras along Sibson Road is a priority for the group.

THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2018

Formed in 2017 and comprising 32 local businesses, BBC held its second meeting on January 23 at the White Horse. It aims to promote local businesses and to encourage people to shop locally.

“Having CCTV along the Sibson Road shopping area is a priority for Birstall Business Co-operative” said spokesperson Shona Rattray.

“After spending time consulting with the local police team, Charnwood CCTV monitoring team leader, and a security contractor, we now have a plan for how we could implement a monitored CCTV system that would give coverage to approximately 50 personal businesses and could be monitored by Charnwood.”

She added: “There is clearly a cost attached all of this and funding is being investigated to make this achievable.”

The final funding arrangement could be a mix of contributions from individual businesses plus some support from local authorities.

The meeting was attended by business representatives and Parish Councillor Ed Marshall, parish clerk Sue Coulson, County and Borough Councillor Iain Bentley and Borough Councillor David Gaskell and Roy Rollings.

Birstall Parish Council will be considering how it might support the CCTV project at its next meeting on February 12. The Parish Council has installed CCTV cameras on the Sibson Road car park and the school lane playing field -

these are monitored by Charnwood Borough Council.

A BBC spokesperson said: “The Charnwood Borough councillors have been extremely proactive and have already investigated ways that they may be able to support the project.

“We hope that a clear path might be set for our next meeting on February 19 and a working group will be set up at this time to implement the project in the next 12 months.”

BBC are also looking at ways of encouraging the local community to use the shops in the village. Ideas suggested include new signage to help direct people who may be unfamiliar with Birstall,

Pic: the February meeting of Birstall Business Co-operative, held in the White Horse

particularly to the shops on the side streets off Sibson Road such as Hannah Parade.

The Co-operative is also looking into a loyalty scheme for customers of Birstall’s businesses. The scheme would be a smart phone based app and would allow businesses to offer loyalty discounts to customers shopping within Birstall. It’s planned that a few businesses will start trialling this soon.

The Facebook Page Shop Local Birstall is now live and already has more than 410 followers. It is intended to give information about the businesses, any new services they offer, and any special offers they are currently running.

The Members of the Co-operative can be identified by a poster in the shop windows. The number of the shop local Birstall Co-operative members has risen to 32 and now includes: Acorn Lettings, Anglo American Car Hire, Bespoke Avenue, Beautylicious, Birstall Body Art, Birstall Dog Grooming, Birstall Pet Suppliers, Butlin Property Services, Café On The Corner, Do My Hair, Filigree Heart, Glenwood Interiors, Henry Smith & Hamylton, KM Vehicles, Lambourne Café,

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For all the latest offers and information, follow the Shop Local Birstall Facebook page.

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Parish Council notes

A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on January 15.

During public participation, Borough Councillor Roy Rollings read out a statement and circulated it to all councillors, as well as a copy of a ‘letter before action’ he has received from solicitors acting on behalf of the Parish Council.

The letter requires that he refrains from using, and deletes, the personal email addresses of parish councillors obtained in his capacity as a parish councillor before he resigned, as this is a breach of Data Protection regulations .

The letter also warns Cllr Rollings against making any “allegations” against individual councillors or any employee of the council, as such conduct may amount to “harassment” and may result

in an injunction being brought against him.

In his statement Cllr Rollings said he will communicate with councillors by post in future, and that the suggestion that he is not entitled to make allegations against councillors or any employee is “complete nonsense”.

PC Dave Jaeckels reported there had been 22 crimes in January to date, including five assaults, one house burglary and six shed thefts. He said that the number of thefts from motor vehicles had reduced.

Cllr Julian Howe, who lives on Allington Drive and was affected by the house explosion, thanked PC Jaeckels for all his support in the aftermath of the incident. PC Jaeckels said there had been no

reports of burglary of abandoned properties on Allington Drive.

Councillors agreed not to increase the precept demand on ratepayers. The parish council precept for 2018/19 is £381,494, which includes a £3,080 grant from Charnwood.

It was agreed that a budget sheet showing expenditure on the Hallam Fields community hall be prepared and circulated to councillors as the project progresses. Updates on the build are provided by the project manager hired by the council and posted on the parish council website.

The parish council has been consulted about improving signage to Watermead Country Park. Comment was made that all the current access routes would struggle to accommodate extra visitors in cars without causing problems with parking and congestion.

Parish precept BIRSTALL PARISH Council have agreed not to increase the precept for the financial year 2018/19.

The Parish Council’s component of the Council Tax, the precept, will be £381,494. This equates to £84,81 per annum for a D Band property – the same as last year.

This is the fourth consecutive year that the Parish Council has not increased the precept demand.

In December the government relaxed the cap on the borough and county council’s Council Tax increases, which had stood at 2 per cent. Increases above the cap require a referendum. The cap has been increased to 3 per cent on core bills, and a further 3 per cent increase is allowed for social care spending.

Award CARL GUNNS picked up another award in January.

The founder of the boxing gym on Birstall Road was presented with the Neville Hamilton Award at the annual Leicester Mercury Sports Awards.

The judging panel recognised Carl’s work with the Leicestershire boxing community over many years and the contribution his gym has made to the lives of young people.

Carl said: “I was surprised to receive this award, it’s a fantastic one to win on behalf of the gym.”

Mark Selby was crowned the Leicester Mercury Sportsman of the Year and sprinter and Paralympic World Champion Sophie Hahn was named Sportswoman of the Year.

New players needed BIRSTALL VILLAGE Cricket Club is on the lookout for new players for the forthcoming season.

“If you fancy a change of club or are new to the area then come and join a club which also has a fantastic social side” said a club spokesman. The club has two Saturday sides and a Thursday evening XI. Winter nets will begin on Wednesday Feb 28 and run through to April 18. They are held at the superb ECB facilities Loughborough University from 8-9pm.

If you require any further information please contact Ian on 07949380010

THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2018

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Thieves targeting sheds and garages THERE HAS been an increase in the number of thefts from sheds in January.

The suspect has been captured on a resident’s CCTV (pictured below) in the Oakfield Avenue, Fielding Road area, riding off on a stolen bike.

Incidents have been reported to the police and residents have been circulating a leaflet in the area, to make their neighbours aware.

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You can make it difficult for a thief to get into your garden.

Fit lights which come on when it gets dark and turn themselves off when it gets light. Alternatively, install lights that come on automatically if movement is sensed.

Make sure all fences are in good repair and that the panels cannot easily be moved or lifted. The height for a perimeter fence or wall around the back garden is 1.8 metres (6 ft).

Attaching trellis to the top of the wood panels can increase the height of the fence and act as a further deterrent.

Fit a padlock or bolt on the inside of all garden gates for security.

Laying a thick gravel path makes it impossible for a thief to approach without making a noise and is a good crime reduction alternative to slabs and concrete.

Plant protection is another way of guarding your property. A selection of thorny bushes and prickly plants planted near to potential access routes, such as fences and walls, are not only a visual deterrent but also a physical barrier to intruders. While these methods are ideal for making forced entry difficult through natural means, they should not replace traditional security measures such as padlocks, bolts and chains.

Sheds Make sure that the shed is near to

the house or clearly visible from the house.

Make sure that the door, door frame and walls are solid and replace any damaged or rotten areas with new sections.

Often sheds are left unlocked or without any appropriate security, such as padlocks, chains or lighting. By installing these simple items you can give better protection to your property.

Replace broken glass panes with laminated glass. Fit windows with a grille fixed to steel plates inside the shed.

Fit key-operated window locks on opening windows. If the windows are never opened, screw them permanently shut from the inside.

Use metal rings and chains fixed to the shed frame with

Purchase a separate garage alarm, which can be connected to a standard electrical 240v socket with a three-pin plug.

Fit a garage door blocker on the outside of the door. This product bolts permanently to the floor, has a large ‘T’bar shaped restrictor and a quality locking device.

Consider fitting a pair of garage door locks that are fitted either vertically or horizontally and can be locked either from the inside or outside of the garage.

Install dead bolts mounted one on each edge of the door inside the garage. When in use, the locks throw a bolt into the doorframe or the concrete floor of the garage.

Various good quality ‘up and over’ or ‘rolling’ deadlocking door handles can be purchased to replace the existing poor quality locks to give better security.

Consider purchasing loop cables.

These have a long braided steel cable and a two-bolt anchor locking point.

These fix to garage walls or floors and can be passed through expensive property such as quad bikes, etc. Some cables are alarmed.

Source: Leicestershire Police

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Fit a battery powered alarm. These can be purchased from DIY stores and garden centres.

Make sure your household insurance policy covers theft from your garden and outbuildings.

Garages If you have a household alarm fitted, consider extending the system into the garage area to detect intruders.

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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

Candidate An interesting read about Birstall Parish Council in the January issue. I should point out that I was the candidate for co-option to fill a vacancy on the Council mentioned on page 14 (for the second time!). I made the big mistake of telling them that I had been an Independent Town and Borough Councillor where I used to live which coupled with my standing as an Independent candidate in the May 2017 Birstall and Wanlip Borough Council ward by election convinced the Council I was far too political to be worthy of joining their ‘club’. During the ‘conversation’ with Councillors it

seems at least one admitted he had nevelections just over a month away. By the er voted in his life, but forgot to mention time the election was upon us, a candithat the chairman of the Birstall Conserv- date was found for each of the 13 seats ative Association happens to be a memon the Town Council and someone ber of the Council for example. I (me!) wondered why not go for a few therefore must suspect there may be a Borough seats as well. As it turned out, grain of truth in the contents of the only one was ‘volunteered’ in an effort letter from D Urquhart. to provide the town voice to the heart of I only relocated to Wanlip from a the problem. market town in the Chiltern hills, about On the Friday after the election, I was the same size as Birstall, in March 2016 sitting in my office when the phone rang. and thought it was a waste of my experi- ‘Congratulations, you got more votes than ence as a town/Borough Councillor there. any other candidate and most of the So as Wanlip has no Parish Council as Town Council is now Independent’ said such, and Birstall is just a couple of the man from the local BBC radio stayards away at the first opportunity, I put tion. ‘Will you do a phone interview in myself forward to be co-opted to replace about 30 minutes?’ Talk about being Roy Rollings. From what I heard on the thrown in at the deep end! street and attending a meeting of the I could go on but if anyone would council, I felt my experience would be like to stand in May 2019, get in touch welcomed! and I will tell them what it’s actually like.

Birstall is starting to go through the As the Parish Clerk says in her response same ‘local difficulties’ that my last coun- to the letter, being a Town/Parish Council did whereby, the Town Council mancillor is not a piece of cake, not paid aged to lose the confidence of the but believe me it’s very easy to slip back residents with letters to the local (week- and get overwhelmed by the responsibilily) press expressing concerns left right ty as you are on your own, so don’t and centre, but being a fully paid up simply blame your local councillors they member of the Apathy party I, along with do need a little help which I was hoping many others just wrote. Then a group of to do. business people decided to take action Talking about Birstall Council and D (sound familiar?) cumulating in a public Urquhart’s letter, one of the things that meeting being called to discus how we Parish Councils can do is suspend standcould get the Town Council find a voice ing orders to allow members of the and get heard by ‘Big Borough’ who just public to interact. Our planning commithappened to be given all the Towns tee usually asked members of the public assets when local government reorganisa- if they wanted to speak on a particular tion took place in the 1970s by the item and even move items earlier if a Town Council. It may have taken 20 number wish to speak, likewise is a years but the worm finally turned with member of the public was late they were over 200 residents actually turning out asked if they wanted to speak. This is on a wet cold late March night with democracy at work and even though we

had Lib-Dems and Conservative supporters on the Council instead of just one or two members of the public attending meetings, frequently 10+ even to the extent we had to move the Council chamber/offices to a complete floor to accommodate the numbers. I should point out I ended up as Chairman of the Finance & Policy Committee which did help get things done (vice-chairman was a Lib-Dem Borough Councillor – so very political). Agendas has supporting material available so members of the public could follow proceedings and I produced 3 out of the 4 Town Council budgets during my time in office with input from all Councillors and the Town Clerk.

I hope this may encourage members of the public (and Council) to be more democratic and get involved rather that taking potshots at those who give up their time freely on residents behalf.

Norman Cutting

Grass verges Whilst out walking in the village, I have noticed that some inconsiderate motorists are using the grass verges as an extension of the carriageway. The verges are becoming deeply rutted with large puddles and the slippery mud is being spread on to the pavements, making them an eyesore and hazardous for pedestrians.

Particularly bad are the ones in Rosetree Avenue and Bentley Road, although I know there are others in a similar state. Grass verges are supposed to enhance the street scene, but sadly, due to the selfish attitude of some motorists, the opposite is true and they are a com-

THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2017

YOUR SAY...

8

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 Last Sat of every month 10am to 12noon 10 Sibson Road, Old Council Office Your Say continued from page 8 plete disgrace.

It is unlikely the verges will be repaired by the County Council, so the situation could deteriorate further.

Concerned Resident

Letters

THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2018

In January I received an anonymous letter for the Your Say page from a reader about local shops. Letters for publication must contain the sender’s name and address, these will not be published or disclosed if the writer requests anonymity. The Birstall Post welcomes readers’ letters – the Your Say page is an open forum for readers to raise issues that concern them.

Jerry Jackson: Editor, Birstall Post

Talk to your District & County Councillors to discuss any issue of local concern Mountsorrel Methodist Church Centre presents Sunday Night @ Eight

Organ Recitals Sunday February 18 at 8pm

by Anne de Graeve Leicestershire Organist Admission is free Donations for Church Development Fund Buffet from 7.30pm

Soup & See the Snowdrops 12 – 2pm, Sat 24th February at Wanlip Hall next to Wanlip church Church Road, Wanlip, Leics. LE7 4PJ in aid of Mothers’ Union projects Registered Charity no. 250038

Birstall Flower Club

Free and valuable information and advice on

February 28th 2018, @ 7.15pm Birstall Village Hall Demonstration by Gill Mills “Kaleidoscope " Visitors welcome - £5 Queries to Sylvia: 0116 2674206 or Mary : 07704398017

Care Funding and Power of Attorney

Birstall Tea Dances

Information Evening Thur Feb 22, 5.30pm – 7pm Cedar Mews Care Home Hallam Fields Road, Birstall, Leicester, LE4 3LX We know many people are worried about the cost of care.

Join us for our free information evening on planning for your future.

A financial advisor and solicitor will be here to answer any questions on finding quality care, the fees involved and Power of Attorney.

Refreshments will be available. www.cinnamoncc.com Reserve your place by calling us on: 0116 267 4835 or email Ben Dalgetty: cedar.haa@cinnamoncc.com Birstall & Wanlip Mothers’ Union invite you for

Birstall Village Hall Birstall Road, Birstall LE4 4DH Fridays 2nd & 16th February 2018 3.30 pm- 5.30pm £4 each on the door Tea / Coffee & Cake included Further information contact Jackie: 0116 2248 278 Mobile: 07908607405 Email: jackielucas957@hotmail.co.uk

Birstall Methodist Women’s Group Programme for February 5 Feb Birstall BAGS 12 Feb A Picture Show – with Kelv and Pete 19 Feb Call my Bluff – Sue Townsend 26 Feb Leicester Hospitals Charity Our Women’s Group meets every Monday evening at 7.30pm at Birstall Methodist Church Coffee

Shop. We are a friendly group of women so why not come along to our meetings and perhaps meet new friends or catch up with old friends? For further information please contact Eileen (0116 2929670).

Birstall Methodist Coffee Shop Tuesday 13th & Thursday 15th February 10.00 – 12.00 Half Term Holiday

Children’s Craft Corner Children get involved whilst parents/carers relax with Coffee & Cake

Birstall & District Local History Society The Society’s next monthly meeting takes place on Thursday 8th February in the Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall startling at 7.30pm.

The meeting will commence with the annual AGM followed by a talk given by Dr. John Sutton on the subject of "The Story Of The Unknown Warrior".

Visitors are very welcome to join us.

Parking will be available on the night on the Birstall Playing Fields through the School Lane entrance Leicester Symphony Orchestra

Animal Antics Sunday 25 February 2018 3pm De Montfort Hall Conductor John Andrews A family concert including: Prokofiev Peter and the Wolf narrated by

9

John Ghent of the Little Theatre Leicester Rossini: William Tell overture Grieg: Hall of the Mountain King Rimsky-Korsakov: Flight of the Bumble Bee And music from films and TV – Jaws, Harry Potter, Born Free, Paddington Tickets: £11 / £15 / £18 NUS/25 & under £5 • Concessions available Tickets Available From: Leicester Symphony Orchestra Ticket Secretary: Mike Manley. Tel: 01400 282731 (answer phone) email: mike@manleys.plus.com De Montfort Hall Box Office Tel: (0116) 233 3111 www.leicestersymphonyorchestra. co.uk

Sunday quiz 11th and 25th February Accoustic night Sunday 18th February Food available every Saturday 12 till 2pm Wakes catered for Free WIFI New Members very welcome

Film Presentations Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council

Fundraising Coffee Shop In aid of LOROS Saturday 24 March 10am-12pm Birstall Methodist Church Raffle, tombola, Friendship

Birstall Royal British Legion Club 3rd Jacqueline Kate 10th Damian Balthazar 17th Mark Farren 24th Martha Jay Dancing every Saturday night with Live entertainment Bingo free raffle and not forgetting open the box Bingo every Tuesday starting at 9.15pm Quiz every Wednesday starting at 8.30pm

"Victoria and Abdul" March 9 (112 mins) Dame Judi Dench stars in this British biographical comedy drama.

Abdul was given to Queen Victoria as a servant from British India but found favour with her, becoming her personal secretary. He taught her Hindustani, some curry recipes and about Indian culture. Abdul bypassed traditional Victorian hierarchy, receiving from Victoria many medals. He gathered animosity among the household but she still loved him as a son. This will be a royal treat.

"Breathe" will be shown on April 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.

St James Church

Altogether Service "The Viceroy's House" Feb 9 (106 mins) Set in 1947 Delhi, the British statesman, Lord Mountbatten, serves as India's last viceroy. He is charged with handing India back to its people. Romance blossoms between a Hindu servant and Muslim sweetheart. Starring Hugh Bonneville, the British Raj thought that they would remain in India for another two hundred years.

However, the climate changed irrevocably. February's film is sumptuous.

Light A Candle For Those Who Care For Us Sunday 4th March, 10am If you would like us to light a candle for you with a Name, please come into the Church on any Saturday morning 10-12noon or email stjames.birstall@btconnect.com

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

Birstall library offer a minibus col-

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

ALL TYPES OF DOMESTIC & INDUSTRIAL WORK

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lection 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 Wednesday 7th February and 7th Mar 2018.

Please contact Birstall Library on 0116 3058756

Scout & Guide Show Sticks & Stones an evening of Light Entertainment, Comedy and Good Music Syston Scout & Guide Band at Wreake Valley Academy Theatre Saturday 17th February 2018 3pm - Matinee Performance £5* 7pm - Evening Performance £5 Group Discounts Available (please ask for details) Tickets are available from: David Lucas t. 07719 553847 | Lesley Smith t. 0116 260 9701 Cheques Payable to ‘Syston Scout & Guide Band’ Rothley And Birstall Birdwatching Club Our 40th Anniversary

A Birdwatcher’s Year

by Steve Magennis What better subject to start our 40th Anniversary than A Birdwatcher’s Year? Steve is an award winning, well respected and passionate photographer based in Northamptonshire and has spent many hours watching and photographing the British countryside.

From a very early age Steve carried a camera trying to capture all the wonderful colours and atmosphere of the countryside but also learning the fundamentals of camera handling and picture taking.

His work is published all over the world and he is currently working towards his Fellowship, the highest qualification within the Royal Photographic Society. In 2014, he was Leica Fieldsports Photographer of the Year, Category winner in 2015 and Highly Commended every year since 2015.

Tuesday 13th March 7.30pm The Rothley Centre, 12 Mountsor-

OPEN NOW

Stonehill Avenue LE4 4JE

Birstall Fruit, Veg & Salad SUPPLIERS Home Deliveries are To be in with a chance of available for all winning a FREE £10 voucher customers please write your details on this advert and 0750 7040492 bring it to the shop birstallfruitandveg@gmail.com

THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2018

10

rel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR 40 Years! Time To Celebrate

by Marion Vincent How did our club begin? What did we do 40 years ago and moving forward? You might be very surprised at what we got up to! Marion has been researching the dusty files, looking at programmes produced on old typewriters and remembering Field Trips that were made exciting by the forms of transport. The long weekends that Ken organised before branching out into Europe. One evening we filled the dining room of our ‘small and friendly’ hotel with birdwatchers and naturalists from the north-east area of Mallorca.

The small bar had never had an evening like it. This evening starts with our short AGM. Tuesday 10th April 7.30pm The Rothley Centre, 12 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR Further information from Marion Vincent 0116 2375156

Travel Talk Presentation

comers and visitors most welcome. Refreshments available at the interval. Demonstration ends at 9pm Members £1; Guests £3.

Free raffle. Ample parking and wheelchair access St James Social Group invite you to a

Film Night

Listening Service

Victoria & Abdul Based on a true story starring Judi Dench and Ali Fazal Friday February 9th St James Church, Church Hill at 7pm No charge (bucket collection) refreshments available Letters and Stitch presents

February Crafting

Why not become an armchair traveller for the evening Sue Ablett will be presenting an illustrated talk on Japan – Land of the Rising Sun Friday March 2nd at 7.30pm Wanlip Community Hall Tickets £4 including refreshments from Beryl McHugh Tel: 2674913

there will be a few stall holders with complementary gifts and handmade crafts. For more information and payment details visit Facebook ‘Letters and Stitch – February crafting!’ or ‘Letters and Stitch.’ williams.fayealicia@gmail.com or 07811069007. All children to be accompanied by adults at all times. Adults can also create their very own for an additional £6

Thursday 15th February 10am12pm at Rothley Village hall LE7 &PR Pop along for plenty of crafting fun! Each child has the opportunity to make there own chalk board plaque. Decorate with a range of embellishments and personalise with your own name or have it as a count down for an exciting date! £6 per child, which includes refreshments and other additional activities! Tea, coffee and cake will be available to purchase and

at Bishop Street Methodist Church A confidential listening service is available, free of charge, at Bishop Street Methodist church for anyone who wants to talk about their problems or concerns. Often it’s easier to talk to someone outside of your family or friendship group.

There is an obvious need for this and as word spreads, we will need to train more listeners. If you want to know more about volunteering for this, or being listened to, please speak to Fran Rhys at Bishop Street Methodist Church or email fran.rhys@methodist.org.uk , or Stephanie Houlden at Birstall Methodist Church or email stephaniehoulden @icloud.com or phone 07731342087 . Alternatively you can drop into Bishop Street cafe between 11am and 1230ppm on Tuesday or Wednesday

The March issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Mar 3.

The copy deadline Feb 16.

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

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THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2018

We offer: Boxercise Circuit training Residential Retreats Personal 1-2-1 training

If you sell or let a property you will require an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) The standard charge is just £60

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Seventy officers are in the process of being trained which will bring the total number within Leicestershire Police to 150.

Assistant Chief Constable Rob Nixon said: “This Taser uplift means officers will be better equipped to protect the public and themselves. Taser reduces the need for physical contact and we know that the mere presence of a Taser is often enough to defuse an angry or dangerous situation and stop it escalating further.

“By training and equipping 150 Leicestershire officers with CED [Taser] capability we’re removing the pressure from our firearms officers and ensuring that we can respond more quickly and effectively with the appropriate resources. Our use of Taser is closely scrutinised by the Home Office to ensure it is used correctly and in the right circumstances.”

None of the Birstall beat team have received Taser training

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Birstall & District Art Society Tuesday, 13th February, at 7pm You are invited to join us at the Palmer-Tomkinson Centre at Cedars Academy, Wanlip Lane, to watch well known professional artist Amanda Jackson giving a demonstration entitled “Childhood/Sunlight” using acrylic paints. Come and join us to watch an expert at work. New-

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NHW news

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There are two much more likely answers to the question: 1) The owners are not locking the vehicle through not operating the remote key/locking system correctly, or choosing to not lock it - “if it’s not locked they won’t damage it to get in”. Or 2) The remote key/locking system is being operated accidentally when away from the vehicle but still within range. I have myself had this happen twice with my own vehicle, on one occasion I was alerted when I saw the car lights flash when I was inside my home and realised that I had ‘sat’ on the car keys.

The best advice that we can give is always double check that your vehicle is secure when you leave it and be careful about keeping keys in pockets etc where they may be accidentally operated. It is also very good advice to check your vehicle at the same time as the doors to your home etc when retiring for the night.

Don’t forget our regular Advice Shop and Police Surgery on the third Saturday of each month at 10 , Sibson Road (on the Car Park) between 10am and 12noon. All welcome and free coffee if you would like one.

From Birstall & Wanlip NHW

Do you lock your car?

It might seem rather silly to ask, but recent operations by the local police in Birstall have certainly raised some questions. Last year, in response to the number of vehicles being subjected to ‘theft from’ crimes, the local beat team organised two evening operations where they checked parked vehicles in a small number of streets in different areas of our village. The results, given the recent publicity regarding this type of crime, were quite surprising. In both instances the number cars found to be unlocked was much greater than expected. In most cases, when told, the owners were adamant that the vehicles were locked when they were left.

There have been many suggestions about how this happens. The most comCrime update mon is that the local thieves have an Reported crime in December has electronic gadget that operates the vehiremained at a similar level to November cle locks. If this was the case, why with a total of 42 crimes being reported. hasn’t every potential thief got one and The vast majority of these are assaults, of just stands in Asda or Tesco car parks which we have had 11, and thefts, of unlocking cars. I’m sure that such which we have had 15. The majority of equipment is possible, but I don’t believe that it is available to our local crim- the assaults have occurred over the Christmas & New Year period whilst inals or that they have the means to ‘drive-off’s’ from the petrol station made build such equipment. (The video recently on the news of criminals scanning up a large proportion of the theft offenca property for a key signal was an entire- es (seven in total) just as they did last ly different situation involving ‘profession- month. On a positive note, the number al’ criminals carrying out a planned theft of thefts from vehicles has remained low this month with just three being reportof a very expensive car not the local ed, which is obviously good news. riff-raff who steal your cd’s or satnav).

We have had three house burglaries reported in December. One of these was quite nasty and resulted in the occupants being assaulted and having some jewelry and cash stolen. We believe that the people involved in this incident have also been responsible for a number of other burglaries across the County and due to the similarities, these are all being investigated alongside one another.

A number of enquiries are currently ongoing to try and identify the suspects and I will update you further in relation to this in subsequent reports.

For further crime information please visit: www.police.uk/leicestershire/NL60/ Crime Prevention Advice No doubt a lot of you will have received electrical items for Christmas, such as mobile phones, tablets and laptops. The latest models are highly sought after by criminals and often they are happy to use violence in order to steal them. Always remain vigilant if using your phone in a public place and remember to put it away out of sight when not in use. You should also make a record of the IMEI / serial number so that you have a record of this, and activate any ‘find my phone apps’ so that they can be tracked if it should be stolen.

Items can also be registered on the immobilise website (www.imobilise.com) which makes it easy for us to identify who a stolen item belongs to should it be recovered.

Neighbourhood update On December 4, the beat team along with a number of Police cadets conducted another ‘vehicle door checking’ exercise in the area of Elmfield Avenue, Oakfield Avenue, Fielding Road, Johnson Road, Copeland Road, Goscote Hall Road and Went Road. In just over an hour we found another 26 vehicles insecure, the owners of which were made aware so that they could lock their cars.

We believe that this is still one of the main ways that vehicles are being broken into in the area so would urge you

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to make sure that your vehicle is secured at all times when left unattended.

This month also saw the awful incident in Allington Drive which sadly resulted in one resident losing their life and a number of others being left unable to return to their homes. On behalf of Leicestershire Police I would like to say a big thank you to everyone who came out to help whilst this incident was being dealt with. The support we saw from the local community was absolutely fantastic and was greatly appreciated by everyone involved.

Meet your local police team Sibson Road Beat Office. Saturday Feb 17 (10am – 12pm).

Crime Report: Birstall Dec 2017 Assaults – 11 Burglary dwelling – 3 Burglary non-dwell – 3 Damage to vehicles – 3 Other damage – 3 Drugs offences – 1 Fraud – 0 Public Order – 2 Robbery – 1 Sexual offences – 0 Theft of cycle – 0 Theft from vehicle – 3 Theft of vehicle – 2 ‘Other’ theft offences – 10 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

Gun found in washing machine A BIRSTALL man has pleaded guilty to a charge of possessing a prohibited weapon and sentenced to five years in jail.

Ryan Langton (24) of Sibson Road was arrested by police at a holiday caravan at Ingoldmells near Skegness on June 3.

Police had found a Makarov selfloading pistol in a washing machine in a garden shed at his then home in Tolton Road, Leicester.

Forensic experts identified that the illegal firearm had been used during a gun fight between two groups in Tolton Road on May 21, 2017. Men dressed in black had chased each other and shot at each other. Leicester Crown court was told one group was firing blanks and another was firing live rounds. No-one was hurt in the incident.

DNA evidence taken from the grip of the gun and gunshot residue on clothing linked Langton to the weapon.

He pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity. The court was told that the defendant had several previous convictions for offences including criminal damage, dishonesty, public order offences, resisting arrest and assault.

THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2018

12

Camel trail PRIZES FOR children who had taken part in the Christmas Camel trail were handed out at St James’ Church crib service on Christmas Eve.

Major traffic delays until autumn MAJOR FLOOD risk work at Leicester’s Loughborough Road Bridge is set to close the inbound lane to traffic for up to eight months.

An inbound lane closure came into effect from Monday 8 January 2018, with a diversion in place via the A6 Abbey Lane. Outbound traffic will be unaffected.

The children had found the locaThe road closure is causing severe distion of 14 camels, hidden in various ruption at peak times. places including Birstall shops.

The £5milllion project will involve the Pic: an artist’s impression of how the new subway under Loughborough Rd bridge will look The crib service featured carols installation of a new subway that will act and the telling of the nativity story. rescheduled while enabling works and as natural flood defences offering inas a flood water bypass culvert below creased protection to around 1,500 Loughborough Road Bridge, which spans improvements to the area around the bridge were carried out. nearby properties. the River Soar.

The improvements include the creaThe Loughborough Road Bridge flood This is part of a major partnership relief scheme is designed by global engischeme between the Environment Agency tion of a new cycle lane, new wildlife habitats and upgrades to existing footneering experts AECOM and being carand Leicester City Council that will help paths. Land on both sides of the bridge ried out by Jacksons, one of the largest reduce flood risk to over 600 homes has been lowered and new drainage civil contractors in the UK, on behalf of and businesses in the Belgrave area. ponds created to provide a larger and the Environment Agency.

Currently, there is a risk that the The project is just one part of the bridge could restrict the flow of water in more efficient natural floodplain.

Once installed, the culvert itself will £2.6billlion the Environment Agency is the event of a flood – acting a bit like a form part of a new riverside cycleway investing in flood and coastal managedam and causing water to back up. between Thurcaston Road Bridge and ment schemes to reduce risk to over The new 5metre-wide culvert will Melton Brook.

300,000 homes in England by 2021. significantly increase the amount of Paul Lockhart, area floodwater that can pass under the flood risk manager at the bridge.

FIND OUT more about the costs Environment Agency, said: Before the culvert can be constructed, of funding care in later life at a major work to divert service cables and “This major work at Loughfree information evening in Birborough Road Bridge is pipes needs to be carried out. This will stall later this month. involve work by five major utility compa- the next phase in our ambitious programme of The Cedar Mews care home on nies and requires the closure of the flood risk management in Hallam Fields Road are hosting the inbound lane on Loughborough Road Leicester. event on Thursday February 22 from Bridge, close to the Redhill roundabout.

“Once complete, this 5.30-7pm.

The lane closure is expected to be in will reduce the risk of A financial advisor and a solicitor place until September 2018, and will be flooding to hundreds will be on hand to answer your quesfollowed by a full road closure at the more homes and businesstions on funding care, Power of Attorbridge for the installation of the new es as well as improving ney and planning for your future. culvert. This is expected to take around this attractive part of the Refreshments will be available. To six to eight weeks, during which time river for people to use reserve your place contact Ben Dalthe bridge will be out of operation. and enjoy.” getty on 0116 2674835 or email The roadworks were originally Leicester City Council is cedar.haa@cinnamoncc.com planned for summer 2017, but were working closely with the Environment Agency to Cole Decoration ensure that the works to reduce flood risk are Quality Decorating designed to help make the Plumbing and Heating For all your Interior requirements city’s riverside and waterInstallation, Upgrades & Servicing Special Effect Décor ways more attractive and Of Gas Cookers, Boilers and Fires French Polishing easily accessible.

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A number of flood management projects have already been completed as part of the partnership programme of works to reduce flood risk across Leicester.

These include the creation Ellis Meadows – an Saturday 10am – 1pm award-winning 20-acre park and nature reserve – and improvements to the ü Qualified Teachers ü Pre-planned learning schedule Co-op sports pitches on land north of Watermead Nimisha (tutor) 0754 769 1090 info@multiplylearning.com Way. Both areas now act

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THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2018

Roy Morris

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13

New care home opened in Rothley MOUNTVIEW CARE home on Loughborough Road, Rothley opened its doors for the first time in November.

The home, operated by Ideal Carehomes, welcomed the Mayor of Charnwood, Councillor Pauline Ranson, to cut the ribbon and declare the home officially open.

Guests were treated to tours of the home, which includes 66 bedrooms with en-suite wet rooms, a coffee shop, garden room, library, cinema, hair and beauty salon, landscaped gardens and English tea room complete with balcony areas. The Mayor chatted to staff before cutting the ribbon and unveiling an open day plaque. She said: “Mountview is a very impressive building – it is like a five star hotel and will not only provide a comfortable home, but also a vibrant lifestyle for future residents.”

Construction began on the three storey residential and dementia care home

by LNT Care Developments at the beginning of 2017. Mountview has also brought employment opportunities to the

area, currently employing 20 staff, rising to nearly 50 once the home is fully staffed.

Mountview is now welcoming its first residents and operators Ideal Carehomes say they aim to provide high quality residential and dementia care at an all-inclusive price.

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Highcliffe panto CHILDREN AT Highcliffe primary school enjoyed a performance of the pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk on their first day of term on January 9.

“It was a fantastic start to the new year!” said Anna Rutherford from Highcliffe School.

“We enjoyed watching Jack battle with the giant, we saw love

Pic: children watching a performance of Jack & the Beanstalk at Highcliffe school

rule overall with Jack and Jill and we loved watching the silly behaviour from Dame Trott and Daisy!

WI’s birthday preparations THE NEW Year saw Birstall and Wanlip WI in a new venue.

We met on January 8 in the welcoming lounge of Birstall Royal British Legion. It was a tight fit but 35 ladies had a very warm and lively evening of ‘Crafting and Chatting’. The bar, games and supper facilities will be welcome addition to our future evenings.

2018 is probably the most important year of our 100 year existence and we have many plans to make it a memorable one. We launch our celebrations on February 24 when we welcome invited guests from local community groups to

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Birstall Methodist Hall for morning refreshments. Up to 1500 ladies will also be attending the Leicestershire and Rutland Federation centenary ACM at Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome on March 10.

There will be many competition entries for baking, crafts, painting and literature on display as well as various stalls.

Guest speakers including John Craven will be presenting prizes to the winners.

We meet again on February 5 in the Long Room when Grainne Purkiss will be our speaker talking about ‘Romance and Love in Art’.

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THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2018

14

Walking group celebrates twenty years THE BIRSTALL Walking Group has just celebrated 20 years of walking.

It was founded in Autumn 1997 by the late Mike Smith and at that time was an affiliated club to Longslade Community College.

“The group has gone from strength to strength, maintaining a membership of 40 walkers, residing in Birstall – together with a ‘waiting list’” said group spokesman Andy White. Successors to Mike Smith as Chairperson have been David Bacon, Christine Greaves, Andy White and the present holder: Elaine White. “Much credit and thanks goes to these individuals and committee members for their contributions to the continuing success of the group over the years” said Andy.

The programme of 5 mile circular walks are located around Leicestershire

Pic: Members of Birstall Walking Group in December 2017, on a walk near Rothley

and Rutland with a few over the border into Derbyshire. Walkers meet for each walk at the chosen pub and return afterwards for a sociable time over a preordered lunch. Members are expected to

News from the churches Visit us Following a very busy January, with many daytime visits from all the schools in Birstall, we realise that to many local residents, St. James church with all its history, is in an area which they very seldom visit. It would of course once have been at the centre of village life, but now with the constant growth in the population Church Hill is very much a byway.

However, we always welcome visitors!

Film night If you haven’t yet tried out one of our film nights at St. James, do come along on Friday February 9 at 7pm to enjoy Victoria and Abdullah, the recently released film. There is no charge and we serve refreshments at the interval. You might also enjoy an illustrated travel talk on Japan, at Wanlip Church and Community. Centre on Friday 2nd March at 7.30 pm, presented by Sue Ablett, a much travelled speaker. Tickets are £4 at the door or by ringing Beryl McHugh on 2674913. Refreshments are also included.

Easter Easter is quite early this year so Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent, occurs on Feb. 14 when there will be special services at Wanlip at 9.30 am and Birstall at 7.30pm.

THE BIRSTALL POST FEB 2018

From Birstall Parish Churches

Food Parcels We are pleased to see that plans to establish a food parcel collection point in the Methodist Church Coffee Shop are making good progress. In response to publicity in the December edition of the Birstall Post we now have over 20 volunteers to help run the collection point. This will enable us to offer the service each week on a Tuesday morning. The training for volunteers is planned for mid-February and we hope to open in late March.

Down Memory Lane On February 3, 2.30-4pm, Down Memory Lane are meeting in the Methodist Coffee Shop. This will be a relaxed time with home made cakes, tea & coffee, and there will be some entertainment.

Improvements

We continue to maintain and improve our property, using our valiant volunteering Property Stewards. In January we upgraded the wireless broadband around the church buildings, making it much easier for our Pre-school to upload reports and photos to parents. In February we will be improving the heating system by replacing some of the radiator control valves, as this will help us optimise our running costs, and reduce our environmental impact.

Weekend away We are in the final stages of planning the weekend away at Willersley Castle at the beginning of March. This will be an informal break for nearly thirty people from our church, with afternoon walks, meals together and evening activities organised.

From Sunday February 18 we are looking forward to Rev Paula Hunt leading a series of Bible studies for the period of Lent. These will be held at 6pm in the church lounge, further details on our Facebook page.

From Birstall Methodist Church

Sunday Services and New Venue May we remind readers that we no longer meet at Highcliffe School but in Room PT1 in The Palmer Tomkinson Centre at The Cedars Academy, Wanlip Lane, Birstall (LE4 4GH). Our Sunday morning services start at 10.45am and you will be most welcome to join us for worship. A Sunday School for junior children is available during the service. Our visiting speaker on February 11 will be Paul Leonard (Shepshed). Please feel free to contact us if you would like to discuss Christian issues or find out more about Christianity. The contact number is 0116 221 4883.

Evington Chapel Lectures The fourth lecture in the series on ‘Stars of the Reformation’ will be given by David Cooke (Banbury) on February 17 at 7pm and the subject is ‘Balthasar Hubmaier’ (1480-1528), an influential German Anabaptist leader and theologian of the Reformation, who was tortured and executed by burning in Austria. Admission is free and all are welcome. The chapel is situated on High Street, Evington, LE5 6FH. These

complete 10 or more of the walks a year and to lead one or two of them.

Andy said: “Individuals need to be physically fit to meet the challenges of all weathers, different terrain and walk-

ing at a good moderate pace! Here’s to many more years of walking!”

Anyone interested in joining should contact the Chairperson on 0116 2673030.

Frugal Lunch held on January raised funds for Christian Aid. New cupboards From Anne Taylor, Birstall Independent and shelving, along with new chairs have Baptist Church improved the look and comfort of the Parish Room.

Concert A Fish and Chip Supper will be held Our Christmas concert on December on Thursday 8th February at 7pm in the 17 proved an excellent opener to the Fr Keating Hall at Rothley. Don’t miss Christmas celebrations. An audience of out. Contact the Birstall Church Office if about 100 people enjoyed an evening of you would like a ticket. festive Carols and well known seasonal Also a Quiz Night will be held in St songs along with poems, instrumental Theresa’s Church Hall on February 16 at pieces and a set by local group Turlough. 7.45pm. Pay on the door. All welcome.

There was an added poignancy this Do please check our joint parish year as the concert followed soon after website for details of all parish activities the gas explosion on Allington Drive, in and services. Find us at: st-theresawhich parishioner Janet Jasper so sadly sacredheart.co.uk From St Theresa’s Birstall & Sacred Heart lost her life. It was decided that the proceeds from the concert should go to Rothley the fund set up to support those residents affected by the disaster. A Book of Condolence has been set up for those who knew her to write their reflections and offer words of sympathy and comfort to her husband John and family.

Janet’s funeral service took place at St Theresa’s on Friday January 26.

Christmas On Christmas Eve, services started with a Crib Service for the younger children who performed a spirited Nativity play. This was followed by the first of the Christmas Masses which continued on Christmas morning. lectures can be downloaded from the Chapel’s website: www.evingtonchapel.org.uk

Three Kings processed into church at the start of Mass for the Epiphany. Well, three youngsters suitably dressed in bright robes with impressive crowns and bearing gifts representing Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh! The Christmas festivities thus drew to a close for another year.

New Year And so we move into a New Year. The life of the Parish settles back into its familiar routine. The joint churches parish council met on January 29. A

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be worse and happen more often.

Risks and Causes The risks and causes of mouth and oropharyngeal cancer include lifestyle factors and other medical conditions. Alcohol and smoking are significant factors contributing to the development of mouth or oropharyngeal cancer.

Research shows around 30 out of 100 (30%) of mouth and oropharyngeal cancers are caused by drinking alcohol and research also suggests that more than 60 out of 100 (more than 60%) of mouth and throat cancers in the UK are caused White or red patches in the mouth or by smoking. throat Treatment A fungal infection called thrush in the All cancer treatment are used to treat mouth can cause red and white patches. mouth and oropharyngeal cancer. PeoThe white patches of thrush usually rub off, leaving a sore red patch underneath. ple affected may have one or a combinaIf you have anti fungal treatment and the tion of all.

• surgery patches go away, they are not related to • radiotherapy cancer.

• chemotherapy Difficulty swallowing, mouth can• chemotherapy with radiotherapy cer can cause pain or a burning (chemoradiotherapy) sensation when chewing and • biological therapy swallowing food. Or you A team of doctors and other profesmight feel like your food is sticking in your throat. Diffi- sionals discuss the best treatment and care for you. They are called a multidisculty swallowing can also be caused by a harmless narrow- ciplinary team (MDT).

The treatment you have depends on: ing of the foodpipe (oesopha• where your cancer is gus).

• how far it has grown or spread (the Cancer in your mouth or throat can stage) affect your voice. Your voice might • the type of cancer sound different. It may be quieter, husky, • how abnormal the cells look under or sound as if you have a cold all the a microscope (the grade) time. Or you might slur some of your • your general health and level of words, or have trouble with pronouncing fitness some sounds.

Please consult your GP or dentist if You may have a lump in your neck you are concerned about symptoms of caused by an enlarged lymph node.

Swelling in one or more lymph nodes in mouth or oropharyngeal cancer.

For more information please visit:the neck is a common symptom of www.cancerresearchuk.org mouth and orpharyngeal cancer.

Or contact: A hot red painful lump usually means University Hospitals of Leicester Canan infection, rather than a cancer. cer Information Centre on 0116 258 Lumps that come and go are not usually 6189 due to cancer. Cancer usually forms a For more information on the funds lump that slowly gets bigger. we have raised, projects we support and Weight loss is a common symptom of forthcoming events see many different types of cancer. Mouth www.birstallbags.co.uk and oropharyngeal cancer can make it Contact the BAG’s by email painful to eat and diffcult to swallow. birstallbags@hotmail.com This might cause weight loss.

Extreme weight loss (when you are not dieting) can be a sign of advanced The March issue of cancer.

THE BIRSTALL POST Most people have bad breath at some will be published on Mar 3. point in their life and it is not cancer.

The copy deadline Feb 16.

But if you have cancer, bad breath might

Birstall BAG’s cancer corner Mouth and oropharyngeal cancer Mouth and oropharyngeal cancer is a relatively rare form of cancer but needless to say around 4000 new cases are diagnosed in the UK every year.1 in 75 men and 1 in 150 women will be diagnosed with mouth cancer at some point in their life. More than 40 out of 100 mouth cancers (more than 40%) are diagnosed in people over 65.

Mouth Cancer can start in the lips, gums or soft sides of your mouth. The oropharynx is the part of the throat (pharynx) just behind the mouth. Cancer starting in the oropharynx is called oropharyngeal cancer.

Symptoms Here are some of the signs and symptoms you should look out for: A broken area of skin (ulcer) that will not heal can be a symptom of mouth cancer. About 80 out of 100 people (80%) with mouth cancer have this symptom.

Pain or discomfort in your mouth that doesn't go away is the other most common symptom of mouth cancer.

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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 NEW wool shop now open, Wool Obsession, Hannah Parade, Stonehill Avenue, Birstall, Leicester. Beautiful yarns to suit all budgets. Friendly and helpful staff. Join us for a Knit and Natter with like minded souls LOST: gentleman’s gold cygnet ring, engraved shoulders with initials RC. Very sentimental value. If found please contact 0116 2209650.

Planning P/18/0149/2: 72 Curzon Ave – looking to convert the garage into a utility area and an office/study. The office/study will have a bay window. Also adding a porch to the front of the building P/18/0102/2: 17 Roman Rd – conversion of dwelling to two self contained flats including installation of 1st floor window to Freehold Road elevation P/18/0062/2: 2 Beechfield Ave –erection ot two storey side extension and single storey extension to rear of dwelling P/18/0045/2: 6 Ashmead Crescent – erection of single storey extension to side of dwelling P/18/0012/2: 52 Curzon Ave – erection of single storey rear extension

All Domestic Plumbing Full Central Heating Boiler Swaps & Upgrades Fully Fitted Bathrooms Wall & Floor Tiling ALL WORK GUARANTEED Local Business • Call Rob Scott:

Tel: 0116 2209311 Mob: 0796 7695631

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 BIRSTALL POST FEB 2018

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