Birstall Post (416) March 2018

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

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MARCH 2018

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No. 416

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Memories of school days HIGHCLIFFE SCHOOL’S Greengate Lane building was filled with visitors taking one last look around before it is demolished to make way for a new building.

As well as bumping into former classmates, many recognised the familiar faces of teachers, headteachers and the popular caretaker Mr Tony Marsden.

Mr Marsden (74) worked at the

school for 32 years, lived on site and retired in 1997. “They were happy years” he said.

“The building was not much good right from the start, within a few years the windows needed replacing and the roofs were leaking. I am sad in a way to see it demolished, as I looked after it, but it’s progress, isn’t it?”

Mr Geoffrey Heath was Deputy Head from 1968-1972 and has had a long association with the school. He said “At one time myself, my son, daughter and wife were all at the school toContinued on page 2

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Loyalty app for local business THE FOUNDERS of a loyalty app that rewards regular customers with discounts were guests at the February meeting of Birstall Business Co-operative (BBC).

PHOTO: ROSE TINTED PHOTOS

gether – my wife was a classroom assistant and the children were pupils.”

Mr Colin Dwelley was headteacher from 1990-2001. “I have fond memories of my time here” he said. “We built a big community centre here – it’s important to develop community involvement.

Academic standards went up as our community groups grew.”

Executive Headteacher Scott Fewster said: “The Greengate building at Highcliffe primary school has been a huge part of the local community for many years and it is wonderful to hear so many memories of school life over the years, it will be sad to see the building go.

“Part of the Greengate building will always be with us as we plan to use bricks from the demolition to create a commemorative sculpture on the school

LoyalFree is already used by 5000 users in the Leicestershire area and is well established in Loughborough where 110 businesses have signed up. playground. All of us in the Highcliffe community are looking forward to a brand new school building in which the children can make new memories.”

The ‘Goodbye Greengate’ event, organised by the PTA, also gave visitors a chance to look at old photos and newspaper cuttings as well as buy items such as tables, chairs and books that will not be moving to the new building.

The Greengate building was erected in the 1960s 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.

Pic: an empty classroom

Jason and Sophie from LoyalFree gave latest Parish Council meeting. Birstall a presentation to Birstall business ownParish Council listened to some details ers showing how the app works – they about the project and indicated it wished are now deciding if they to be supplied with further inforfeel the app would work mation. for them.

The group currentFiligree Heart has ally have £1950 ready started using Loyal pledged by local busiFree and owner Shona nesses to support the Rattray said: “I’m really funding for the camerpleased with how easy the as and are also pursuapp is to use, and customing fund raising via ers are really keen to sign other means. up and start saving”.

Social Media is Birstall Business Coworking effectively for operative are keen to the group. The facework on a street market book page ‘shop local for the Sibson Road area. birstall’ now has 475 Shona said: “We are very aware there is followers and recent posts promoting a lot of regulation involved in this. Initial Valentines offers had 900 views. The research has been done, and the group Hannah parade shopping area video decided to look into possibly having a have has been viewed over 1500 times.

Harvest festival fair later in the year.

“Look out for the Mother’s day post comFurther research is to be completed by a ing soon, a feature in the Birstall Post number of the businesses and we will about the Hannah Parade shops, and discuss again at the next meeting.” our Shop Local posters” said Shona.

There was a further update on the The group’s next meeting is on TuesCCTV project with feedback from the day March 20 at 6pm at the White Horse.

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Q&A Who are Birstall Business Cooperative?

We established ourselves in November 2017 and are now a group of 35 Birstall businesses. Namely, 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, LOROS, Lotus Hair and Beauty, MDW Fireplaces, Nalas Elephant, New World Florist, Psigns Midlands, Ravi Kapadia Photography, Rose Tinted Photos, RT’s Café, Shortt & Lunn Hair, Silly Prices, Supacare, The Posy Powl, TJ Cycles, The White Horse, Woodside RSPCA Charity and Wool Obsession. The most recent members are NTL computers, Beautilicious, Sleeping petals and Birstall Fruit and Veg shop We meet monthly, and follow up with fortnightly progress reports.

What are Birstall Business Co-operative trying to achieve?

Our aim is to work together to promote the retail businesses in Birstall and to work with the wider community to improve the shopping experience for Birstall residents.

We would like to see businesses thrive in Birstall, and this would avoid further empty shops within the village, which is continually an issue for local residents.

Our main promotional campaign is Shop Local Birstall. This is headed up by a community Facebook page with over 400 followers (gained in just 2 months), and a poster campaign in the shop windows.

Our main improvement project is monitored CCTV along Sibson Road, to aid in crime prevention and crime reduction measures.

If you are a local business and would like to join us please email Charlottelfoy@hotmail.co.uk or visit Shona at Filigree Heart

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2018

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£10million for Ashton Green to speed up build £10 MILLION of funding for highway infrastructure has been awarded to Leicester City Council for its 3000 home Ashton Green development on the edge of Birstall.

The government funding is part of the Housing Infrastructure Fund, which aims to get new homes built more quickly.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip Hammond and Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Sajid Javid met with Leicester’s City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby at Ashton Green where they made the announcement.

The Chancellor said: “This fund fi-

nances vital infrastructure such as roads, schools and bridges, which will kickstart housing development in some of Britain’s highest-demand areas”.

Located in Beaumont Leys, opposite the junction with Greengate Lane, the development has seen the first occupants of more than 100 new homes move in this year.

The traffic implications for Greengate Lane, an already congested road, are

Pics: (top) the Ashton Green site; (left) how the development will look

worrying local people.

In 2016 the City Council announced plans to put traffic lights on the Greengate Lane bridge, reducing traffic to single file across it to act as a traffic calming measure.

The city council also plan to provide a new cycle path across the bridge.

The proposals attracted considerable public opposition at the time with objections made by Councillors and the public – a 142 name petition was sent to the City Council. The council said it would: “keep local people informed of any next steps”.

Leicester City Council is the principal landowner and promoter of the Ashton Green development, which is a mixed use urban extension on a 320 acre greenfield site. The council has already invested more than £2million in the initial infrastructure to kick-start the Ashton Green development.

Pic: Chancellor Philip Hammond (left) visits Ashton Green

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Up to 30% of the new homes to be built at Ashton Green will be affordable homes for rent and for shared ownership.

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Daisy the cat reunited with family

THE JASPER family have been reunited with their cat after it went missing following the gas explosion on Allington Drive in December.

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“I am looking forward to going on the Annabelle and Charlotte will be off to Ireland trip as it give me opportunities a Jamboree in Ireland this summer, to meet new people and try new things” Eleanor to Iceland, Shraya to Taiwan to said Annabelle. help develop guiding in the country and Eleanor said: I feel very honoured to next summer Alice will be part of the UK have been chosen to represent Girlguidcontingent at the 24th World Scout Jaming in Iceland. I am looking forward to boree in West Virginia USA. enjoying the sites of Iceland with my Each girl attended a selection weeknew-found friends.” end back in April 2017, and out of 40 Charlotte said: “I am looking forward attendees from across the county, they to going on a bigger International camp were selected for the trips. than Charnwood 2016, which had over Between them they have to raise just 5,000 Scouts and guides attending. I am over £9,000 to fund their trips, so have been working hard since last summer to especially excited about visiting Dublin for the first time.” reach their targets to cover transport, “I’m looking forward to seeing a accommodation, activities, kit and insurance. They will be hosting a coffee morn- whole different culture, with a different climate, lifestyle and food. I’m excited to ing at Birstall Methodist Church on meet the people we will be helping and Saturday May 5 with cakes and stalls so to represent Girlguiding in a different drop in if you would like to support part of the world” said Shraya. their fundraising.

Alice is “very excited to be going to All five girls have been members of America next year, I’ve been meeting up Girlguiding Birstall since the age of five, with the other girls from the Midlands working their way through Rainbows, and we’re starting to become friends, I Brownies, Guides and are now Young have several training weekends camping Leaders, giving up their spare time to help at the Rainbow, Brownie and Guide before we go to really get us bonded as a team. I’m looking forward to seeing groups.

Helen Sibson from Girlguiding Birstall the world jamboree site, the white water said: “Through Girlguiding they have had rafting and long zip lines over the forest sound really fun.” opportunities to learn and develop, The girls are in need of tombola achieving badges such as Healthy Living items, raffle prizes, opportunities to hold and First Aider, go on indoor and outstalls and any other fundraising opportudoor residentials, developed skills in nities the public or businesses can offer. teamwork and leadership and of course Please get in touch with offers of supmade some new friends!” port by emailing Their development and enjoyment through Girlguiding would not have been birstallguides@googlemail.com possible without the Leaders who volunTrouble with your figures? tarily give up their time to run the ‘units’ on a weekly basis.

Let me help Want Guide leader Gemma Lawrenson said: get your someone to “ Trips like these allow girls to truly expebooks in walk you rience the international nature of Guidshape… through a self ing. They allow girls to develop their & keep them trim assessment? skills, independence and confidence in Linda Kimberley-Brooks (ACMA) the world wide family that Guiding offers.

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2018

The Jaspers lived next door to the • The Birstall Post asked the Health house that exploded – Janet Jasper was and Safety Executive for an update on injured and died in hospital the followtheir investigation into the causes of the ing day. gas explosion. A HSE spokesperson said: After being missing for more than two “The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) months, John Jasper and his son Anthohas commissioned the Health & Safety ny were reunited with Daisy the cat Laboratory (HSL) to carry out tests to when they were visiting the site to pick determine the technical causes of the things up from their garage. gas explosion at Birstall. The investigaAnthony told the Leicester Mercury: tion is ongoing. The results of this work “She must have heard our voices because are for the HM Coroner to assist with she just started wandering out and came the inquest into the circumstances of the straight up to us.” death.”

Daisy wad dehydrated and thin but otherwise in good heath. She was taken to the vet for a check-up.

The April issue of John and Anthony are now living in rented accommodation near to Allington THE BIRSTALL POST Drive. John (80), suffered minor injuries will be published on Mar 30. in the explosion but sadly in February he The copy deadline is Mar 16. had a small stoke. He is now recovering and up and about, said Anthony.

FIVE LOCAL girls, members of Girlguiding Birstall, have been selected to represent the county on international trips over the next year.

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Gunns’ gym features on BBC tv CARL GUNNS organised a social gettogether at Birstall Village Hall for users of his boxing gym.

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2018

cide attempt, Kirsty said she attends the gym up to six times a week and that the skills she has learned there have given her confidence and helped her cope with anxiety.

She said: “Carl is like a grandad, so supportive, and always there if I want to talk.”

The programme can be watched again on the BBC iPlayer.

PHOTOS: BBC

The event was an opportunity for gym users the past and present to celebrate the gym’s achievements.

The effect the gym has had on the lives of some of the girls that use it featured on the BBC’s Inside Out programme, which was aired on BBC1 in February.

16-year-old Kirsty spoke about the gym being somewhere she felt safe. With a history of self harm and one sui-

Parish Council notes

A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on February 12.

A member of the public said that he had visited the surgery organised monthly by Birstall’s county and borough councillors. He commented that the county and borough councillors were not getting on with the parish council and asked why this was. He said that they get paid while parish councillors do not and in his view, this made a difference.

Another member of the public suggested that the background papers that were circulated to councillors before the meeting should also be made available to the public, both online and at the meeting. This would enable the public attending to understand better what was being discussed at meetings, and would

encourage public participation.

PC Dave Jaeckels said that there had been a reduction in the incidence of antisocial behaviour related to driving. A rise in burglary non-dwelling had resulted in this crime being made a beat priority.

PC Jaeckels reported there had been a robbery on Greengate Lane when a woman had her handbag snatched. The local beat team have been visiting properties in Curzon Avenue to speak to residents about burglary.

The council adopted a policy on audio/visual recording and photography at council meetings.

Councillors considered a report from Birstall Business Co-operative (BBC) about the provision of CCTV cameras

along Sibson Road.

Chair Ann Marshall said that the council was receiving the report at this meeting and that councillors could ask questions but that no decision about CCTV would be taken this evening.

Cllr Shona Rattray, a founder of BBC, said that providing CCTV would help businesses thrive. Local businesses are prepared to pay for CCTV but are looking for grants and other sources of funds including fundraising events.

The Parish Council could help by paying for monitoring and servicing costs, she said. Monitoring costs are reduced by 90% for parish and town councils and as this is such a significant saving, this is where BBC would request the support of the parish council.

Cllr Rattray commented that the parish council had the legal authority to make a contribution towards the provision of CCTV if it chose to do so, and

that CCTV was just a part of what BBC were planning to do to promote economic activity in Birstall.

Cllr Lorraine Harrison commented that the parish council should support the local businesses as the community needs its local shops to be successful.

PC Jaeckels said there had been 13 burglaries/attempted burglaries at Birstall shops in the last year. He said that CCTV was not brilliant as a detecting tool, as many burglars kept their faces hidden.

As a preventative tool, even with a very serious system, people will still commit burglaries despite CCTV. It can be useful, but not to be seen as the sole answer, he said.

Cllr Rattray said police statistics show there is a 20% reduction in crime where CCTV is provided.

Chair Ann Marshall said CCTV had not been effective in preventing antisocial behaviour on the Sibson Road car park and that the only thing that helped was the erection of physical barrier.

Cllr Ed Marshall said security measures at each shop could be improved and that local alarm companies could advise on the latest technology available.

It was agreed that the council needed more information and to wait for this to be provided by BBC. It was agreed that automatic handwashing stations be installed in the School Lane car park public toilets.

It was reported that Cllr Daniel Withers had resigned owing to work commitments.

Club’s wall of fame HAVE YOUR name engraved on a brick at Birstall United Juniors new clubhouse and help to support the club and become a part of its history.

The ‘Wall of Fame’ is part of the club’s fundraising drive for its new clubhouse. In 2017 it secured a grant of £79,000 from the Premier League and FA Facilities Fund, but still needs to raise 31% of the total cost itself.

The ‘Wall of Fame’ is for current players, former players or anyone who wants to show their support for the club.

The club are hoping to officially open the clubhouse and unveil the wall at a community day on Sunday August 19. There will be stalls and family activities, games for the kids in the morning, and then in the afternoon a team representing Birstall will take on the Leicester City FC Legends (including Steve Walsh, Muzzy Izzet, Matt Elliott, Steve Guppy and more). It will be £3 on the gate, with all proceeds going to the clubhouse.

If you would like to find out more about the ‘Wall of Fame’ contact Steve Carr, email carr-s2@sky.com

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2018

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Bike ride through India challenge

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Pic: back row: Ellie Gurney (11), Sian Gurney (16), Rica Gibson (11); front: Natalia Puczylo (14)

TWO LOCAL women are preparing for a gruelling charity bike ride in India.

Rachel Draper and Sarah Hopwood from Cropston will be joining a group of women to cycle through rural Rajasthan in India over 5 days, of up to 60 miles a day. Sarah said: “We are training hard!”

The challenge is to support the work of three charities: Breast Cancer Care, Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust and Ovarian Cancer Action.

To raise the charity money they are having a “Charity Garden Party.” This will be held on Sunday May 20, 11am-5pm at 154 Station Road, Cropston, LE7 7HF. All are welcome.

Anyone who would like to set up a stall to sell their crafts or gifts at the garden party are welcome too, for £10 a stall. Please contact Rachel at 07842221735 or Sarah at 07984028156.

Pic: (l-r) Rachel Draper and Sarah Hopwood

Pupils’ award for online safety A BIRSTALL school is the first to collect a coveted online safety award.

A team of Highcliffe Primary School pupils (called eCadets) have been working hard in keeping their friends safe online and have done so well the school has won a National Online Safety Award.

Mr Spedding, eCadet coordinator teacher at Highcliffe, said the whole school had felt the impact of their work.

“We are so proud of our eCadets team and everything they have achieved. They teach other pupils how to be safe online in lessons, hold assemblies and have even shared their knowledge with other school” he said.

“To be the first school in Leicester-

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shire to collect the eCadets Centre of Excellence award for online safety and digital citizenship is great recognition for all they’ve done as part of the innovative programme.”

Thousands of children across the UK have participated in the pupil led online safety programme. Henry Platten, eCadets Chief Executive (a former Police Sergeant) called the work of the team “outstanding”.

Henry said: “The eCadets at the school are awesome! The energy and commitment they show in delivering our activities in school has made a real sustainable impact to all the pupils at the school.”

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Talented dancers LOCAL DANCERS from Birstall’s Steps School of Theatre Dance have had their abilities recognised.

Following dance exams taken last December, the dancers were amongst a select few chosen to take part in an awards ceremony and dance their ways to the finals.

Pupils Ellie Gurney (11) and Natalie Puczylo (14) will travel to Manchester to take part in February 2019.

School principal Michelle Lamont said: “Out of the thousands of candidates who took exams worldwide throughout the year, the girls are amongst the best 100 in the world to perform.

“I’m so proud of all the dancers, they work extremely hard and deserve the recognition for their success. The

school has bone from strength to strength over the years, the girls have proved they are the best in the world and Birstall residents should look no further to find a dance school with such an excellent reputation for dance training”.

Receiving international nominations are becoming a regular occurrence at the school as this February pupils Sian Gurney, Ellie Gurney and Rica Gibson will take part in this year’s event.

For more information on classes at Steps school of theatre dance please contact Michelle at stepsschooloftheatredance@hotmail.co. uk

walk to and from the park and ride.

However, I understand a suggestion to allow school buses access to the rear of the school met a frosty reception by the operators, likewise anyone not actually bringing a vehicle and simply, say, enjoying the area perhaps with a dog.

With no bus service to Hallam Fields even thought about, even that would be a far better use of the £thousands this footbridge will cost. Believe it or not, I have asked the question and between the police concerns and the planning excuses, their arguments against letting residents have a bus service at this late stage were fairly compelling.

The Birstall Post welcomes your views I cannot let the ‘complaint’ [in last and opinions on any subject. Letters, which month’s Post] about grass verges go must include your name and address, without comment as this is a nationwide (though not necessarily for publication) problem on developments built prior to can be posted to: The Birstall Post, Unit the mid 60’s when cars were cherished 109, Greenacres, The Sidings, Leicester rather than being abandoned on the LE4 3BR, or handed in at Birstall library roadside (parked facing direction of or email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk traffic flow and white light to the front and red to the rear during lighting up Bus or bridge time!). As the writer suggests they were I’m starting to sound like the grumpy part of the highway and tended by the old man from Wanlip – you are lucky, local council until labour costs ruled as it was a blue light job 4 months after this out. Then came the ‘pavement parkwe arrived up here – but having walked ing’ syndrome which is actually illegal round most of the Hallam Fields ‘maze’ (pity councils cannot keep fines!), so last May one can only conclude that the let’s call it a social problem for the time money obtained from the developers to being but if anyone has a practical solubuild ‘something’ was the Borough Coun- tion then by all means write in to the cil idea of something useful. ‘post’ but don’t suggest the police enThe idea of a bridge to cross the busy force the law as I was informed they A6 must have seemed a good idea at the police by consent which is as good a time, being half way between two pedes- system as I know. trian controlled crossings, to allow N Cutting schoolchildren easy ‘safe’ access to the cedars academy and residents able to

Thanks

Invest in environment

A few words of thanks to local people who have helped my gym over the last few months. Birstall Cricket Club gave us a nice cheque from their annual friendly match which really helped buy us new equipment. Another great help was Simon Oates, local electrician, who did a few jobs in the gym at no cost, thanks Simon, and last but not least Birstall Parish Council for their support to my gym, they might get a few complaints from locals but I have to say they always support our gym when they can.

Once again all of you, a big thank you.

Yours in sport Carl Gunns

I write following the response to my letter made by the parish council clerk, both of which were published in the Birstall post of January 2018. The officious tone in which the response is written, only serves to reiterate the points that my letter was attempting to make. The clerk has 'chosen' to see my letter as being directed at the individual parish councillors, and implies that I was being critical of them as individuals for the work that they do. This of course, was not the case - quite the opposite in fact. My letter was based on observations made at a parish council meeting, where I experienced councillor's reticence to speak, challenge or oppose matters raised, and intended to highlight the struggles that parish councillors face under the hierarchical structure currently in existence. This matter was exposed

by Borough Councillor Roy Rollings in a former edition of the Birstall Post; and which led ultimately to his resignation from the parish council (and which my letter addressed). I am also fairly well versed on the protocol required at these meetings. The clerk makes suggestion that it is my ignorance of such matters that underpins the concerns I have raised, but this is not the case. Whilst an element of decorum does need to be established and maintained at council meetings, this can be done without the hierarchical 'top down' oppressive approach that I witnessed. I know this because I have seen it at various council

Hallam Fields Wondering if there is a Residents Association for the Hallam Fields development? If not, would any residents be interested in forming one, to bring to light any issues that are a cause for concern, or irritation, such as the upkeep of the estate, lack of facilities, inconsiderate parking, and last but not least, if other residents have encountered expensive roof repairs since purchasing their properties.

It would be extremely useful to have a point of contact for help and advice when problems arise.

Please phone 0743 2596295 if a Residents Association exists, or if interested in the formation of one.

Rosalie & Sidney Langham

Continued on page 10

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2018

YOUR SAY...

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2018

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from page 8

meetings I have attended in the past in other parishes. In my experience, a more open and friendly approach is far more productive, and achieves better results for all. Rules and regulations can be observed without the need for officiousness.

My letter also referred to funds held by the Birstall Parish Council, which I trust is what the Parish clerk makes reference to when she speaks of the Parish Council's maintenance of "its own assets to a very high standard for the benefit of the community". My point is that these funds cannot benefit the community if they are not spent - and in a way which makes a difference to the village that all residents can see and appreciate. If I was the clerk of the Parish Council, the Chair, or indeed a Parish Councillor, I would be taking a long hard look at our village. Many residents have raised their concerns over the years on this page about its deterioration and lack of facilities. But we are told incessantly (as the clerk does in her response to my letter) that facilities in the village are 'excellent'. I think instantly of the closure of the swimming pool and the recent end to the lunch club provided for the elderly residents of Birstall. Community facilities are being reduced, how is this excellence? What are these 'facilities'? The provision of GP surgeries, dentists, schools and the like are statutory, they cannot be classed as 'excellent facilities'. Everybody has access to these wherever they live.

As I and others have mentioned, Birstall needs a facelift. It requires urgent regeneration. An 'Environmental Visual Audit' is required. The streets need a proper clean and tidy, what is broken or scruffy needs to be repaired or replaced.

One suggestion I would make that would drastically improve Birstall would be to install the rustic wooden bus shelters seen in all other Charnwood Villages that sit along the A6. Just imagine how much nicer the village would look and feel!

The Perspex ones in existence are a target for graffiti, and look disgusting where this has been removed over and over again. Add to this some permanent ornate flower displays and people would begin to see their village in a new light.

Why should Birstall residents not be given the opportunity to take pride in where they live? If these things are possible in Rothley, Mountsorrel and Quorn why not in Birstall? There are probably more people paying Council Tax in this village than in all those areas put together! People in these other villages comment on how 'run down' Birstall now is.

It really is time to invest in our environment. I implore the Parish Council to do so urgently to improve the look and feel of our village, and thus our quality of life. In her response, the parish clerk refers to 'Parish council assets', but these assets actually belong to the people of Birstall. A simple questionnaire could be printed in the Birstall Post, proposing options or suggestions for Birstall's visual improvement. Allow Birstall people to have a say and a stake in where their money is spent.

D Urquhart

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 Talk to your District & County Councillors to discuss any issue of local concern Mountsorrel Methodist Church Presents The 3rd in the 17th series of Sunday Night @ Eight

Organ Recitals on Sunday March 18 at 8pm

by Ivan Linford Leicestershire Organist Admission is free Donations for Church Development Fund. Buffet from 7.30pm Barrow Panto Group presents

Dick Whittington Here’s a chance to brighten up

your grey March days with a visit to Barrow’s family panto on Fri 9th and Sat 10th March. With usual verve and humour, Barrow Panto Group will bring all the traditions of pantomime to your doorstep. Expect slapstick, romance, gorgeous costumes, song and dance and a chance to interact….oh yes you do.

The show will be at Humphrey Perkins Community Centre, Cotes Road, Barrow, LE12 8JU starting at 7pm or 2pm for the Saturday matinee performance. Tickets will cost £8 and £6 (concessions) with a family ticket for 4 at £24. You can buy them on line (card or Paypal) from www.busca.org.uk or from The Paper Shop or Barrow library or by phoning 07718153117

Admission is £2.50 for LRWT members, £3 for visitors, (children free), including refreshments.

Birstall & District Art Society Tuesday, 13th March, at 7.30 p.m.

Annual General Meeting 6-7pm (members only) followed by a special ‘appraisal’ evening! You are invited to join us at the Palmer-Tomkinson Centre at Cedars Academy, Wanlip Lane, to hear renowned professional artist Tim Fisher appraising the works of our members in various media from Watercolour, Pen & Ink, Pastels, to Acrylics and Oils, as well as ‘Mixed Media’ using a combination of materials and effects. This is a perfect opportunity for visitors to come along and see the work of our members and to find out more about our Society. We are all amateurs, painting purely for pleasure. Newcomers and visitors will be most welcome to attend the Appraisal to come and see if you will be inspired to try your hand at this wonderful and fulfilling hobby. Refreshments available at the interval, when you will have the opportunity to chat with members and Committee. Appraisal will take place from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Entry £3, includes free raffle. Ample parking and wheelchair access

Birstall Flower Club March 28th 2018, @ 7.15pm Birstall Village Hall Demonstration by Roma Berridge called "Spring Forward" Visitors welcome - £5 Queries to Sylvia: 0116 2674206 or Mary : 07704398017

Leics & Rutland Wildlife Trust (Charnwood) Wednesday March 14th 2018 at 7.30pm Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall Management of Watermead Country Park North’s Reedbed Reserve The Group’s AGM will be followed by an illustrated talk by Dale Osborne, Ranger at Watermead Country Park. Find out about the history, the objectives, the management and the species that now inhabit this fascinating reserve

Birstall Methodist Thursday Group

Coffee Morning in aid of Air Ambulance on Saturday March 10th, 10-12 am in the Coffee Shop, Wanlip Lane. Books & puzzles, tombola and cakes etc.

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2018

10 Continued

Everyone welcome

Birstall Tea Dances Birstall Village Hall Birstall Road,Birstall LE 4 4DH Fridays 2nd & 16th March 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

Leicester Windsurfing & Stand Up Paddle Boarding

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2018

beginners, intermediate and experienced are all welcome at King Lears Lake, North Gate, Watermead Park, Wanlip, LE7 1PD off the A46 just north of Leicester between Syston and Wanlip.

Membership Adult £66/yr Family £88/yr, Day Sail £10 Incl. use of club boards, sails and paddles Website www.leicestersailboardclub.co.uk or e-mail lwsupc@outlook.com or Mob 07714651635

Birstall & District Local History Society

Leicestershire Life Education Centre

The AGM of the Society took place on 8th February and the following committee were elected:Chairperson - Adrienne Topley Vice -chairperson - No one elected left in abeyance Secretary - Adrienne Topley Treasurer - Audrey Lennon Committee - John Kilby, Diane King, Stuart Liquorish, Mike Smith, Glenys Ratcliffe, Liz Dunk and Pam Evans.

The next meeting of the Society takes place on Thursday 8th March 2018 in the Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall commencing at 7.30pm.

The subject of the talk is "The Inverted Jenny" and the speaker is Derek Holloway.

Visitors are very welcome to join us for this talk.

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

Monday 12th March Anstey Jubilee Hall 6.30 arrival 7pm start tickets £6, call/text 07976809127

The Inner Wheel Of The Wreake Valley

Free Charity Concert in aid of HEARTWISE (a new charity demonstrating CPR use of defibrillators to pupils in senior schools) At Quorn Village Hall Leicester Road, Quorn LE12 8BB. Saturday 14th April 2018, 7.30pm Entertainment by Loughborough Male Voice Choir.

Free glass of wine or soft drink.

Raffle.

Bucket collection for HEARTWISE Please help us support this charity

Make up Masterclass

many medals. He gathered animosity among the household but she still loved him as a son. This will be a royal treat.

"Breathe" (Apr 13, 117mins)

We are the

St James Monday Group and we would love to meet you.

We meet on the second Monday of every month, in the Day Care Centre rooms of the Village Hall, School Lane, at 7.30 p.m.

Our next meeting on 12th March will be our AGM and would be a good opportunity for you to come and meet us all and find out about the range of talks, outings and parties that we have planned for this year. We will also be choosing a Charity to support during the year.

We would welcome visitors and new members. Tea, coffee and biscuits are always involved!

We look forward to meeting you

Film Presentations Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council "Victoria and Abdul" (Mar 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 close, personal secretary. He taught her Hindi, some curry recipes and about Indian culture. Abdul bypassed traditional Victorian hierarchy, receiving from Victoria

This extraordinary true story, told over three decades, tells us about Robin who, in 1950, contracts the devastating disease, poliomyelitis. He actually escapes from hospital and, encouraged by his wife, leads a full and passionate life, with the aid of a wheelchair that was invented specially for him.

"Breathe" is a moving British romantic drama starring Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy. "Whisky Galore" will be shown on May 11.

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

11

12

Local art classes Public

toilets improved

ART CLASSES led by an experienced teacher are being offered at Mountsorrel Memorial Centre.

Jim, brother to Elsie who is missing him Last seen on the evening of the 6th February 2018, Harrowgate Drive, Birstall He is a nervous cat with a “dribble” on his mouth and toe socks on his front paws. He is chipped.

If you find Jim please phone 07914524924 We miss him and want him home

Birstall Royal British Legion Club 3rd Double Trouble 10th Joanna Linford 17th Lesley 24th Colin Kacey 31st TBC 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 Sunday quiz 11th and 25th March Acoustic night Sunday 18th March Food available Saturday 12 till 2pm Wakes catered for Free WIFI New members very welcome

St Patrick’s Parish Centre Beaumont Leys Lane Why not drop in on a Friday for a hot drink, chatter, companionship and toasted teacakes whilst browsing the good quality clothes bric-a-brac, toys, DVD's, CD's and the huge range of books only 20p for paperbacks, 50p hard backs.

Open Every Friday 10am-12noon

It's Quiz Time St Patrick’s Parish Centre Friday March 2 at 7.30pm How Much? £5.00 Per Adult £2.00 For Under16's This for a themed Spring 6 round quiz with a table quiz all with nibbles, soup and dessert, bar open

Children’s Easter Crafts at the Methodist Church Coffee Shop Tuesday 27th & Thursday 29th

TWO NEW stainless steel automatic handwashing stations are being installed in the ladies and gents public toilets on the School Lane playing field car park.

sity School of continuing education, teaching undergraduate level practical courses and contextual studies to adult learners. Ingrid has a BA Hons in fine art and a PGCE in education.

Classes are on Tuesdays from April 10, 2018 and the fee is £100 for 10 classes.

Ingrid said: “If you would like to come along and try your hand at drawing and painting, the morning class, 10 till 12 noon, for beginners is an ideal starting point. Those with some previous experience, the afternoon class The units automatically dispense soap, from 130 until hot water and hot air to dry the hands.

3:30pm will cater They will cost a total of £3200, a saving for your further of £1600 on the cost of four basins, development.” soap dispensers and hand driers.

To book your place contact Ingrid: 07951 911699 or 01509 The April issue of 734467.

THE BIRSTALL POST www.ingridkleins will be published on Mar 30.

-daniels.com The copy deadline is Mar 16.

March 10.00am – 12 noon Enjoy coffee & cake whilst children are busy and at St Theresa’s Social Area Good Friday –30th March 10.00am – 11.30am Drinks & Hot Cross Buns

Birstall Methodist Women’s Group 5 Mar Birstall Bingo with Pauline and Sue 12 Mar Quilts for Injured Servicemen – Brenda and Dave Cunningham 19 Mar Skittles Outing at the Royal Oak, Cossington 26 Mar One Hundred Years of Weddings – Felicity Austin (Open Evening – All Welcome) 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)

Art Classes

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Mountsorrel Memorial Centre

Starting Tuesday April 10th Beginners Drawing & Painting - 10-12 am 10 weeks £100 Looking at all aspects of drawing and painting, how to use different media and techniques. Full tuition and guidance with experienced teacher and artist.

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

Improvers Drawing & Watercolours - 1.30-3.30pm 10 weeks £100 For those with some previous experience who want to progress and improve their skills with full tuition.

Come along, learn new skills & meet new people in a relaxed & informal atmosphere.

For full details contact Ingrid Kleins-Daniels:

07951 911699 or 01509 734467 Or Mountsorrel Memorial Ctr reception on 0116 2304877

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2018

Lost Cat

Ingrid Kleins-Daniels is an experienced local artist, designer and former teacher/lectur er. She lives in Shepshed and was originally from Rothley.

Having spent some years living and working in Spain, she has returned to this country and is once again teaching adult classes, something she did for many years before becoming head of art at a local secondary school.

Ingrid also worked for 13 years as a tutor and lecturer for Nottingham Univer-

Help to buy a new boat needed A LOCAL charity that provides boat trips for the disabled and socially isolated people is fundraising to buy a new boat.

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2018

The Baldwin trust operates two 70 foot narrowboats on the canals and river system throughout Leicestershire. Run by 45 volunteers, it started in 1983 and was awarded the Queens Award For Voluntary Services in 2010.

“Our two narrowboats are very old” said charity spokesman Alasdair MacIntyre. “The age of the boats mean spare parts are not readily available – during the last six months, mechanical failures have resulted in the cancellation of approximately 35 day trips.”

He added: “Our volunteers are desperately trying to raise funds to place an order for a new boat. We have raised 50% of the required funds for the new boat and are applying for more grants and appealing for donations.”

The Baldwin trust has provided trips for the elderly, disabled, homeless teenagers and people with mental health issues.

Alistair said: “The boat trips provided by the trust can provide learning and recreational opportunities to disadvantaged or isolated people and their carers which will allow them to maintain a healthy lifestyle or discover new experiences or gain skills. This in turn can improve the quality of their life opportunities.”

Police drop investigation A BIRSTALL man was investigated by police following a complaint of harassment.

Mr Stephen Garner of Moorgate Avenue was visited by police at his home in October.

The police say the allegations of harassment related to Mr Garner attending Birstall Parish Council over a period of time.

The police found that the allegations did not constitute harassment as they appeared to relate to reasonable questions being asked of the council, but some of the allegations were of a more personal nature and needed further investigations.

After speaking to all parties, the police decided to close their investigation.

In a letter to Mr Garner, copied to the Birstall Post, the Chair of Birstall Parish Council Ann Marshall said: “The Parish Council has not reported anything or anyone to the police, so they are unable to comment on a matter which is not of their doing.

“No-one at the Parish Council has ever prevented or suggested that you should not attend their public meetings.

“At meetings you have always been allowed to speak in order to express your views and/or opinions in Public Participation, in fact, on one occasion when you arrived late to a meeting, the committee moved back into public participation to hear your views.”

Mr Garner learned that the police had closed their investigation on January 27. He said: “All this time hanging on, not knowing what was happening, has been awful. In my view it has taken too long to be concluded.”

Summer challenge for young people SIGN-UPS for national youth empowerment programme, National Citizen Service (NCS), are now open in Leicestershire to any 15-17-year-olds looking to have a life changing summer and boost their CV. The unique four-week programme is focused around fun and discovery with teens spending time away from home, learning new life skills and also volunteering at least 30 hours of their time to a community project or charity of their choice.

Owen Liggins (pictured right), 16 from Loughborough, took part in NCS last summer. Speaking about his experience he said: “NCS was a fantastic opportunity to learn and build upon skills and I definitely became more confident with public speaking.

“Phase three was my favourite part of NCS – this is when you create a social action project and I planned an activity and then fundraised for our chosen charity. It is really fun.”

The government-backed scheme costs no more than £50, which covers the entire experience from food and accommodation to activities and travel, with bursaries available on a case by case basis.

Phil Everett, from The EBP the regional NCS provider, said: “NCS is a fantastic way to spend the summer after all the hard work of studying for GCSEs. The four-week programme starts with some fun outward-bound style activities followed by a week away at university-style accommodation learning new skills. The last two weeks of NCS involve creating a social action project within the local

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“Spending the summer doing something completely out of the ordinary can be quite daunting for some teens but the difference we see in the young people who take part in NCS is really quite amazing. During the programme we see them grow into young adults that not only make lasting friendships, learn new skills and have loads of fun but also become aware of their local community and conscious of the impact they can have on their surroundings.

“NCS also looks great on CVs and UCAS recommends referencing it on personal statements.”

The NCS summer programme will start on 25 June 2018 – with more dates available throughout the summer holidays.

For further information and to sign up to the summer NCSEM1 programme visit www.ncsem1.org.uk or call 01522 574101.

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13

made tackling these burglaries our New Neighbourhood Priority as we are obviously concerned about the number of shops and outbuildings that have been broken into in recent months Many residents & shop owners have also been in touch to raise concerns about the negative effects these break-ins are having on the local community, hence the reason for adopting it as a new beat priority.

On a more positive note, the number of actual house burglaries has remained low this month, with just 2 offences DURING THE winter months, our being reported, and in relation to the gardens are more exposed to nasty burglary on Curzon Avenue I mentioned last month I am pleased to be criminals trying to gain entry to able to report that a male has been properties. arrested in relation to that particular We are not out in our gardens so much and this can be taken advantage of. break-in. He has been questioned about Sheds are targeted to steal equipment so a number of incidents across the whole county and released at this time whilst we need to lock them, keeping the key indoors. Side entrances can be protected further enquiries are carried out.

Theft of petrol continues to be an by locking the gate from the inside and issue, with another 8 offences reported fixing our fence spikes over the top. this month.

These will work even on a curved gate For further crime information please top as they are flexible. Spikes can be fitted along the fence top. They act as an visit: www.police.uk/leicestershire/NL60/ Crime Prevention Advice effective deterrent for both "would-be " As already stated, we have seen a rise thieves and stray cats! in the number of sheds & garages broAn attractive way of protecting our ken into in January with a total of 6 borders is to plant shrubs and hedges.

In the Berberis group there is the steno- being reported, 3 of which happened on the same night and in the same street. phylia which is 8ft with narrow foliage, arching thorny stems and golden flowers Consider taking the following steps to secure your shed or outbuilding: in April and May. The pyracantha, fire1) Use a good quality padlock and thorn, is a popular wall shrub, displaysecure any ‘hasps & staples’ with antiing its colourful berries from early theft screws, which cannot be undone autumn until midwinter. It is a tough, with a normal screwdriver. hardy plant and will flourish in an ex2) Mark any tools or cycles stored in posed position or against a shady wall. your shed with your postcode (The From Birstall & Wanlip NHW Neighbourhood Watch postcode cycles free for members at their monthly advice shops).

WE HAVE unfortunately seen a 3) Make it difficult for thieves to get slight rise in reported crime in into your garden in the first place by January, with a total of 49 securing gates and fixing broken fences. crimes being reported compared Also, consider installing security lighting & CCTV to act as a deterrent. to 42 in December.

Neighbourhood update There has unfortunately been a rise in As stated above, we have made tackthe number of thefts from vehicles with ling non-dwelling burglary our new Beat 9 offences, up from just 3 in December priority following a rise in the number and the number of non-dwelling burglaof these offences. Many of the shops on ries (shops, garages & sheds) has also Sibson Road have unfortunately been risen, with a total of 8 being reported. targeted during 2017, which has resulted As a result of this increase, we have in some making the decision to close down, so we are keen to do what we can to avoid further break-ins from occurring & more shops from closing. We are already working closely with retailers to provide them with crime prevention advice and as a beat team we will be ensuring that all possible lines of enquiry are explored in an effort to identify the people responsible for these incidents.

Meet your local police team Sibson Road Beat Office: Saturday 17th March (both 10am – 12pm).

Crime Report : Jan 2018

NHW news

& crime report

Assaults – 9 Burglary dwelling – 2 Burglary non-dwell – 8 Damage to vehicles – 2 Other damage – 1 Drugs offences – 0

WI shares centenary IT WAS a packed house when 39 ladies met at the Royal British Legion on February 5.

The day before several of us had joined other WI members, complete with sashes and placards to march to the unveiling of Alice Hawkins’ statue. Leicestershire and Rutland WI and our own Birstall and Wanlip WI share the same centenary anniversary and therefore an affinity to the 100 years since women were first given the vote.

18 of us also enjoyed a January Warners Break at Cricket St Thomas. There were pleasant walks in the winter sun around the beauti-

ful grounds and the holiday also included excursions to Exeter, Weymouth and Taunton.

Pictures of all these activities can be viewed on our Facebook page or the County website.

Our speaker for the evening was Grainne Purkiss who talked to us passionately about ‘Romance in Art’ and we learnt about the secret messages hidden within famous paintings. The competition was an impromptu poem on the lines of ‘Roses are Red’ and was won by Janet.

Our next meeting is on March 5 when we have a Games Night with a hot supper and the most successful games team will win the competition cup.

From Birstall & Wanlip WI

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Robbery – 0 Sexual offences – 0 Theft of cycle – 0 Theft of vehicle – 1 Theft from vehicle – 9 Theft from shop – 2 Theft of fuel – 8 Other theft offences – 2

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2018

14

Become a volunteer with Girlguiding

15

JOIN IN and help lead the fun - Girlguiding Birstall is appealing for volunteers to help them. following adult volunteers: · A Unit Leader and assistant Leaders for Brownies. · Assistant Leaders for Rainbows. · Treasurer for Rainbows. · Assistant Leader for Guides. · Occasional helpers. · Residential occasional helpers (female).

Girlguiding is the largest organisation for girls and young women in the UK.

PHOTO: LFRS

Brown Owl, Marie Upton, said: “Being involved in Girlguiding is so much fun; it gives me great pleasure knowing I can pass on life skills to young girls but also provide excellent opportunities and experiences that they can carry on into their future. I’ve been running a Brownie group for many years and I love it.”

Spokeswoman Helen Sibson said: “Girlguiding has been running in Birstall since 1931 providing opportunities for adventure, friendship and skills to many hundreds of local girls over the years.

You can find out about them and the Currently we have over 150 members roles listed above on the website and many of our groups have waiting lists of girls wanting to join. However, at www.girlguiding.org.uk. Helen said : “Having more volunteers in Birstall would present we are short of volunteers to enable us to continue providing Guiding run our Rainbow, Brownie and Guide opportunities to current members, as groups and to provide admin support.” well as allowing more local girls to join One of the Brownie groups will be and providing much needed support by facing temporary closure this September sharing the workload of admin, activity unless new volunteers come forward to preparation and leadership.” take over from two of the current LeadTo volunteer register yourself at ers who are due to retire. Free training www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved is provided and new volunteers will be fully mentored and helped along the way. then a local member of Girlguiding BirThe group is currently looking for the stall will contact you with a view to arranging an informal meeting.

New chicken project THE LATEST initiative funded by The Bark Foundation for the HOTPEC Orphanage in Cameroon is ‘The Chicken Project’ launched in October last year.

The orphanage had a derelict building, an unfinished project by a charity from another country, which HOTPEC proposed to renovate into a large poultry house to accommodate 1,000 chickens.

Money was sent in October to fund the renovation work and this was completed

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PALLATT BROS. Ltd THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2018

Corgi Gas Reg. Installers

OUR PICTURE shows a crew from Birstall’s Leicestershire Fire and Rescue HQ conducting a training session at Watermead Country Park.

They were pumping water from an open water source and feeding the Aerial Ladder Platform (ALP).

An ALP can extend a ladder and firefighters up to great heights to rescue people from tall buildings, or direct larger quantities of water onto a fire from above.

just before Christmas.

Spokesman David Bark said: “We have now been able to send money from many generous donations and particularly from one significant donation, to buy the chickens, equipment such as feeders and water containers, feed and in particular money for pest control.

We were particularly pleased to help with advice as one of the Foundation’s trustees is the daughter of a poultry farmer!”

The idea of the project is that new born chicks will be purchased at two weeks, raised and then sold to the food market at 12 weeks giving them a regular income. It is planned to be a recurring cycle producing approximately £750 income four times a year.

David said: “One of the benefits for the children is they will have a bumper chicken meal at the end of each cycle.

It is also planned the children will help in raising the chickens which will help develop husbandry and life skills.”

This is not the first project that has been set up to help self-sufficiency. For a number of years now they have produced some of their own vegetables.

The total cost of setting up the Chicken Project has been £10,000.

Contact: bark_foundation@btinternet.com Pic: the poultry house at the orphanage

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Council tax rising CHARNWOOD BOROUGH Council is proposing to raise its share of council tax by 9p a week for a Band D property.

The proposed increase would see the annual charge for an average Band D property rise £5 (4.46 per cent) to £117.09 from April 1, 2018.

Councillor Tom Barkley, Lead Member for Finance and Property Services, said: “We are proposing an increase to our local element of council tax for this year.

“We do not do this lightly, but our funding from central Government is shrinking and we’re committed to maintaining our frontline services, so we need to find extra revenue.

“In order to balance the books for 2018/19 we are planning to use some of our reserves, but they are in good health as we’ve built them up in previous years.

As ever, the Council aims to run as efficiently as possible and we regularly review our position.

“We will put this proposal before cabinet and full council in the next few weeks.”

Charnwood Borough Council currently has the 22nd lowest council tax charge out of 201 district councils in the country.

Council tax pays for a range of services provided Charnwood Borough Council, Leicestershire County Council, Leicestershire Police and Leicestershire Fire and Rescue and the parish council. The Charnwood element accounts for less than 10 per cent of the total bill.

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39 Copeland Rd, Birstall

A YEAR of fundraising by Birstall Quilters enabled them to present a cheque for £1400 to Cancer Research UK. Our picture shows Paula Scaife (right) receiving the cheque on behalf of the charity. She said: “It’s really fantastic, I can see how hard you have all worked and how talented you all are. Thank you, your support means such a lot.”

Birstall Quilters were formed in 1988, has 40 members, and meets on Wednesdays at Birstall Methodist Church on Wanlip Lane from 1.30-3.30pm. Anyone interested is invited to drop in.

HATS perform in new venue HIGHCLIFFE AMATEUR Theatrical Society (HATS) will be moving to a new venue for their spring play.

Highcliffe school’s Greengate Lane building is being demolished and rebuilt, so Birstall Social Club will host the society’s next production.

A spokesman said: “We have had many years of tremendous support from

the local community, and those living further away too, and we want to ensure that we are easily accessible for you to continue to support us.

“It would be wonderful to see the familiar faces in our audience, and hopefully our move will bring in additional audience members who, I am sure, will want to return

for years to come.”

This year’s Spring Play “What a Mix Up” will incorporate 2 one-act comedies.

Both of these plays are “by arrangement with Lazy Bee Scripts” Two Weddings and a Conference: by Karen Doling A double-booked wedding reception at a hotel causes havoc for the brides, grooms, manager, receptionist and the attendees of a conference that is supposed to be happening at the same time! However, it soon transpires that the double booking is not the only coincidence they will have to deal with!

Does this compare to any wedding you have ever been to?

B & B: by Bob Tucker It’s opening week for the Bay View Bed and Breakfast, but the owners aren’t getting the idyllic escape from the rat race they hoped for. Guests are leaving as fast as they arrive and the demands are almost as bizarre as the pets and habits of the ones who try to stay!

And does this compare to any B & B you have ever stayed in?

Venue: Birstall Social Club, 16-18 Wanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4JS Dates: Thursday 17th and Friday 18th May 7.30pm. (Doors open at 7.00pm) Tickets: £6.00 adults £5.00 concession. £20.00 for family tickets (2 adults and 2 children) Discount for group bookings of 10 or more people (price available at time of booking).

Tickets available from the box office: 0116 2216019 or 07963 432020 or by email at hatstickets@hotmail.com

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2018

16

Ofsted: Cedars a ‘good’ school OFSTED HAVE rated The Cedars Academy as ‘Good’ in all areas in their first inspection since the 2015 merger of Longslade Community College and Stonehill High School.

The inspection found significant strengths in all areas including teaching and learning, outcomes and assessment, leadership and management, and personal development, behaviour and welfare.

On Ofsted’s 2018 report, teachers were described as ‘enthusiastic and keen to share their very good subject knowledge’ with ‘a detailed knowledge and understanding of individual pupils’ and the work they produce. The relationship between staff and students was commented on as positive and the encouragement of learners to take risks in their learning and develop confidence in answers was seen as supportive of learning and independence. The curriculum at all key stages was identified as challenging and well delivered.

The report said that: “Pupils are confident and polite. They are proud to be

Family affair THE BIRSTALL POST started in 1983 and every month for the next 35 years Diane Mason and her family have delivered the paper to homes on Fieldgate Crescent.

Diane, now 82, has decided the time has come to retire. She said: “It’s not been an easy decision, it’s the end of an era”.

Diane’s four children did the deliveries at first, followed by her husband and then Diane. A new volunteer has come forward to take over Diane’s round.

The Birstall Post is delivered by 130 volunteers. Jerry Jackson, who became editor in 1988, said: “I am very grateful for our volunteer distributors who go out in all weathers putting the Birstall Post through letterboxes in the streets where they live.

“I thank them and I am sure all the readers do too, for the contribution they make.”

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members of the school. They are mature in their dealings with others. Pupils’ understanding of diversity was acknowledged and the school as a whole described as ‘welcoming and inclusive.’

As well as teaching and learning, personal development and pastoral care was also highly commended. Inspectors found that: “The extra-curricular programme is extensive, offering a variety of cultural, artistic and sporting activities.

Pupils are encouraged to participate in enriching experiences, such as the ‘classics club’. Pupils appreciate and enjoy these opportunities.”

Leadership of the school was seen as highly effective with Headteacher Jason Smith singled out for his determination ‘to raise pupils’ aspirations and improve their life chances.’ The report explained how all staff share these high expectations of achievement and success in all aspects of school life.

Jason Smith said: “I’m very pleased that Ofsted have recognised the good work of staff and pupils at The Cedars Academy, we can be proud of what’s been achieved. We need to continue to improve but we are confident we can work with our community to take the Cedars to the next level.”

Mr Smith said that one encouraging

Pic: Headteacher Jason Smith

aspects of the report centred on Sixth Form provision, as Cedars has now formed the Cedars Martin Sixth Form in collaboration with Anstey’s Martin High School. The inspection team described the sixth form as – ‘a strength of the school’ with ‘high ambitions for students’ success.’ They went on to praise staff for being -‘extremely knowledgeable and passionate about their subject’ resulting in enthusiastic students with outcomes above national averages in 2017 and expectations of further improvement this year.

The support of leaders and staff across the Lionheart Trust was also highlighted as a ‘clear and effective collaboration between school and trust staff.’ Lionheart Trust Executive Principal Kath Kelly said: “The inspection recognised that this is a school with the high-

17 est expectations, where all learners make significant personal and academic progress, and all staff support the ethos of the school. When Cedars was formed the principal aim was to create a unified, cohesive community and the achievement of this has been identified in the report. This cohesion is even more important now that more parents/carers of learners from outside of Birstall are making the school their first choice for Year 7 places.”

Inspectors found that the school needs to improve: • the quality of teaching, learning and assessment by ensuring that: all teachers plan activities which challenge and meet the needs of all groups of pupils: teachers routinely apply the feedback policy and ensure that pupils understand what they need to do to improve; the most able pupils understand what they need to do to achieve the highest grades.

• Ensure that middle leaders take greater responsibility for leading improvements in their areas of responsibility and new leaders are supported to be fully effective in their roles.

• Improve pupils’ personal development, behaviour and welfare by ensuring that teachers consistently apply the school’s behaviour policy & embedding strategies already in place to further improve the attendance of disadvantaged pupils and those who have SEN and/or disabilities.

In 2013 Longslade College was placed in Special Measures by Ofsted and from 2010-13, the school was close to the bottom of county league tables for GCSE performance.

In 2017 students at the Cedars Academy achieved A level results that made the school one of the highest performing state schools in the county.

Cedars Academy is an 11-19 co-educational school. Cedars Academy and Martin High School will offer shared provision of Key Stage 5 from September 2018.

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Special Get off service couch & BOWLERS FROM St Margaret’s Bowling Club have taken a break from the winter weather.

“We all need help getting through those cold, dark winter days. And what better way to do this than to take an activity holiday with a group of friends.

And what better activity than bowls – indoor at this time of year, of course!” said a club spokesman.

“Our group went to Potters on the east coast. This successful resort has been run by the Potters family for over 100 years and you don't have to bowl very long before you become aware of the fantastic contribution Potters makes to the bowling world. At the end of January each year, they host an amazing event, the World Indoor Bowls Championships, which many will have seen on TV.

“We were all fired up by the Championships and we had many keenly fought matches but unfortunately none of our teams reached the finals this year. We did however have one extraordinary success in a completely different area.

One of our group, Peter Woods, tried an archery class and he scored an amazing 295 out of a possible 300. He was told that this was the highest score ever recorded at Potters! Not even the coach had ever done that well. So we did have something to celebrate.” www.smcbc.com Pic: Bowlers from St Margaret's Co-operative Bowls Club at Potters. Peter Woods – second row, far right

Ducks race for pool THE WHITE Horse, organisers of the annual village duck race, are delighted to announce that the proceeds from the 2018 event will go towards improvements at the pool at Riverside School.

This year’s Duck Race will be on Monday May 7 from 12 noon.

The Duck Race is now a firm fixture on the Birstall social calendar with over £34,000 raised so far all for local causes.

The PTA at Riverside school are aiming to raise over £20,000 to mend the heating system at the pool and carry out much needed refurbishment.

The pool is currently the only one in Birstall, it is a valuable community amenity as private swimming lessons are held here as well as those through the school.

Leah Russell, head of Highcliffe PTA, said: “Riverside School are very pleased to take part in The White Horse Duck Race this year. We hope to sell lots of Ducks and have a really fun day that will raise money to help us reach our target to help save the pool”.

Ducks will be on sale from April 1, available at Riverside School and at the White Horse. There'll also be plenty of Ducks to buy on the day.

Charlotte Foy of the White Horse said “We love the fact that the Duck Race raises money for local Birstall causes and benefiting the Riverside pool seemed a very worthwhile cause this year” There will be more information about the details of the day in next months Birstall Post or check either the Riverside or White Horse Facebook pages for more information.

APPLICATION FOR VARIATION OF PREMISES LICENCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN That Birstall Parish Council has applied for a licence to use the premises known as School Lane Playing Fields, Birstall for the purpose of Regulated Entertainment (Live Music, Recorded Music and Performances of Dance) for the Birstall Gala 2018, to be held on: Saturday, 30th June 2018 11:00am - 10:00pm Dated: 1st March 2018 Any objections or representations in respect of the application should be made in writing to the Licensing Manager, Charnwood Borough Council, Council Offices, Southfield Road, Loughborough, LE11 2TX. Representations/objections must be received by: 28th March 2018 A record of the application can be inspected at the Council Offices at the aforementioned address (and website) during normal office hours. It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in or in connection with an application. Any person found guilty of such an offence shall be liable on summary conviction to a maximum find in the sum of £5,000.00

ATC Sunday is marked annually by Air Cadets around the nation .

It is commemorated on the closest Sunday to when the Air Training Corp was founded, and gives an opportunity for cadets to reconsider the promise they made at their enrolment, renew the promise and also to reflect on the values of the Air Training Corp. During this year’s service at St James Church, both cadets and the congregation were tasked with making paper aeroplanes to aim for the Sin bin. The cadets also performed for the congregation which consisted of demonstrations of Foot Drill and a Physical Training exercise. As part of the service, there was a candle display formed up like the RAF ensign. Members of the service were then invited up to light a candle in remembrance of a loved one.

“The squadron’s Padre Vince Jupp made the service very enjoyable for both cadets and congregation” said Bhavesh Chouhan.

After the service many of the cadets had the opportunity to speak with members of the local community and share experiences” he added.

Birstall Air Cadets meet weekly at Riverside Primary School, Wanlip Lane on Tuesday and Thursday evenings between 7pm and 9.30pm.

They are currently recruiting cadets and adult volunteers. For more information call 0116 267 2868 or email: 1947@aircadets.org

run with us

BIRSTALL RUNNING Club is starting a new ‘Couch to 5km’ (c25k) programme in April.

Spokeswoman Mel Snutch said: “We will be leading sessions twice a week following a formal plan that has proven to get absolute beginners running 5km after 9 weeks.

Runners will be meeting on Monday evening at 6pm at the pavilion on the park, School Lane and Wednesday evening at 6pm from the carpark opposite Aroma Spice on Sibson Road.

The cost is £16 for the 9 week course, which will be led by qualified run leaders, participants will be enrolled as social members of Birstall Running Club.

Mel said: “Over the last four years we have introduced over 100 people to regular running through our beginners and c25k programmes. We want to continue this momentum in 2018 and we look forward to welcoming even more people to our sport”.

Numbers will be limited this year to 40 participants and places will be allocated on a first come first served basis.

Interested parties can contact Mel Snutch on 07803585221 or by email: dave.snutch@ntlworld.com

Coffee morning RENAULT LEICESTER on Abbey Lane held a coffee morning at Birstall Methodist church to help raise funds for the Soar Valley Community Food Project.

The project, which provides food parcels for people in need, is the car dealerships chosen charity for the year.

Renault Leicester will also be selling tickets for an Easter raffle in the first week of March – visitors to the showroom can buy tickets or donate items of food for the charity.

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2018

Bowlers’ winter break

A SPECIAL service at Birstall’s St James’ Church saw Air Cadets from 1947(Birstall) Squadron aged between 13-18 joining in with the local community for ATC (Air Training Corps) Sunday.

News from the churches Film Show Once again the film night in February at St James proved a great success when Victoria and Abdul was the feature. Many local friends find film shows on the doorstep a great attraction! This month we have a very different evening event when Sue Ablett will present an illustrated talk on Japan at Wanlip Church and Community Centre at 7.30pm on Friday March 2. Tickets are £4 including refreshments and are available at the door.

Stephen & Sharon March We have had to say goodbye this month to Stephen and Sharon March, who have spent the last three years attached to our parish churches as pioneer workers on the Hallam Field Estate where they have been very much welcomed and have created a group known as a fresh expression of spiritual awareness. We wish them well in the new project they will be creating elsewhere in Leicestershire.

With the start of the season of Lent there is a study group starting at St James each Wednesday evening from March 28 at 7.30pm and anyone is invited to come along to this, on the subject of prayer.

From Birstall Parish Churches

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2018

Lent Bible Study – Let Your Light Shine Throughout the whole of Lent we are hosting Bible studies at 6pm, led by Rev Paula Hunt. Jesus described himself as "the Light of the World” (John 8:12), but he also told his followers that they were to be lights to the world (Matt 5:14-16), letting his light shine through their lives.

During the five Sundays in Lent, we shall be looking at the challenge that comes when we try to let Christ's light shine in

our daily lives. All are welcome to join us.

Village Churches Celebrate Covenant

On January 22, 1997 a Covenant was signed by representatives of the three churches in Birstall, some of us still remember this being reported in the February 1997 edition of the Birstall Post.

So on Wednesday January 24, 2018 the Churches Together in Birstall and Wanlip had a very special 21st Anniversary Party! We all gathered at St James’ Church for us to celebrate and worship

God, many thanks for organising such a lovely service. Readings and prayers were led by different members from each church. We also lit candles on the special arrangement in the shape of the Churches Together Logo, see picture above.

After the service of celebration 80 people enjoyed refreshments and a time of fellowship together, where we shared a food buffet with wine, tea and coffee, and of course the Churches Together 21st Birthday cake!

Thanks to everyone who took part; event organising, planning the service, providing the food, and of course the special cake! It was a very enjoyable evening and we are looking forward to the next 21 years of Churches Together!

Frugal Lunches for Christian Aid During the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity members of Churches Together organised two ‘Frugal Lunches’. The first was on January 20 at Birstall Methodist Church, and the second on January 23 at St Theresa’s Roman Catholic Church. The meal consisted of a bowl of soup and a roll, with just a glass of water. This was intended to serve as a reminder to us of how fortunate we are in this country to have ‘plenty’, while many others in the world go hungry. A huge thankyou to everyone involved.

Approximately 30 people attended each occasion, donations were collected and we managed to send more than £500 to Christian Aid. Walk of Witness As with previous years we will be organising a Walk of Witness on Good Friday, March 30. We will be starting from the Tesco store, slowly walking down Sibson Road, stopping several times along the way to sing a hymn and say a prayer. We will also be handing out palm crosses to our local community as we progress, finishing at St Theresa’s with some light refreshment.

Children’s Craft Corner This event held in the Coffee Shop during February half-term was a great success. The Coffee Shop was buzzing with young families; children busy with their crafts & colouring, Lego building, cars & word searches. All this while the parents & carers enjoyed home-made scones, cake & coffee.

Watch out for our next sessions which will be held during the Easter holidays.

Tuesday 27 & Thursday March 29. Same time, same place!

From Birstall Methodist Church Sunday services and Easter Our meetings are held in Room PT1, The Palmer Tomkinson Centre, The Cedars Academy, Wanlip Lane, Birstall (LE4 4GH) and begin at 10.45am. A Sunday School for junior children is available during the service. Our visiting speaker on March 25 will be Roger Pendleton (Nottingham). We welcome you to all our services but would like to give you a special invitation to join with us on 25th as this is Palm Sunday, which is when Christians remember the triumphant entry into Jerusalem by the Lord Jesus Christ. This was at the beginning of the week which led to His Crucifixion (on Good Friday) and His Resurrection from the dead three days later, on the Sunday (Easter).

On Good Friday, March 30, when we mark the fact that the Lord Jesus Christ died on the Cross to save us from our sins, we will be joining with others at Holywell Church, Berkeley Road, Loughborough (LE11 3SJ) for the service at 10am. The speaker is Luke Jenner (Halifax).

19 We are not able to use the school premises on Easter Day itself (April 1), so please contact us for our arrangements.

Evington Lectures The final lecture in the series ‘Stars of the Reformation’ will be given by Richard Brooks (Catshill, near Bromsgrove) on 17th March at 7pm. The subject is ‘John Bradford (1510-1555)’, a Fellow of Pembroke College, Cambridge, Chaplain to King Edward VI and Prebendary of St Paul's Cathedral, who was burnt at the stake for his Protestant beliefs. Admission is free and all are welcome. The chapel is situated on High Street, Evington, LE5 6FH. These lectures can be downloaded from the Chapel’s website: www.evingtonchapel.org.uk.

We wish you a blessed Easter.

Enquiries: please ring 0116 221 4883.

From Birstall Independent Baptist Church

OUR LENTEN services commenced on Ash Wednesday, February 13.

During Mass, the priest marked the Sign of the Cross on the foreheads of the congregation with ashes. These ashes, rendered from last year’s palm crosses, remind us of our mortality. A period of prayer and contemplation with a short service of Benediction will precede Mass each Sunday during Lent.

The theme for the Women’s World Day of Prayer service to be held at St. Theresa’s at 2pm on March 2 is “All God’s Creating Is Very Good”, prepared

by Christian women from Suriname.

Before the service, there will be a simple lunch in the parish hall at 12noon with a presentation about Suriname itself.

Donations are invited for lunch. All are welcome to attend.

Parishioners and Eucharistic Ministers have the opportunity to attend a Lenten Retreat at the Rosmini Centre on March 17, led by Fr. Ted Mullen. Further details can be found on the parish website.

A Passover Supper will take place on the Thursday 21. The meal contains foods which are of special significance and prayers are said between courses which recall the struggles of the Israelites and their flight from Egypt. Entry is by ticket only, details are on the church website.

Every Friday during Lent at 6.30pm stations of the cross at both St Theresa’s and at Sacred Heart Rothley. St Theresa’s will be followed by mass.

From St Theresa’s, Birstall & Sacred Heart, Rothley

“SERVICE

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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

Birstall BAG’s cancer corner THANKS TO Birstall BAGs amazing supporters and donors, in February Birstall BAGs were able to donate £14,500 to the Pleural Disease Team at the University Hospitals of Leicester (UHL), to enable them to buy a Portable Ultra Sound Machine.

Dr Rakesh K Panchal, Consultant Respiratory Physician said: “We are most grateful for your most generous donation. The new ultrasound machine will enable us to provide direct bedside patient care in our pleural clinic, procedure lists and pleural ward without delay and significantly enhance the quality of our service.”

This month we thought it might be appropriate to explain a little more about the pleura disease team and this part of our anatomy (the pleura) and why it is a significant organ that is particularly vulnerable as a site for a secondary cancer.

The UHL Pleural Disease Team The Pleural Disease Team are based within the Department of Respiratory Medicine at the Glenfield Hospital. They are a specialist team of doctors and a nurse who run clinics, investigations and inpatient services specifically for people presenting with signs and symptoms of pleural disease or illness. The new ultra-

sound machine that Birstall BAG’s have provided is portable. This means patients can have their chest scanned during their consultation rather than having to book another appointment or wait to have the Ultrasound scan they urgently need down in the Ultrasound department.

The Pleura The pleura includes two thin layers of tissue that protect and cushion the lungs.

The inner layer (visceral pleura) wraps around the lungs and is stuck very tightly to the lungs. The outer layer (parietal pleura) lines the inside of the chest wall. The very thin space between the layers is called the pleural cavity. A liquid, called pleural fluid, lubricates the pleural cavity so that the two layers of pleural tissue can slide against each other.

Pleural Effusion In the presence of disease or other health problems the pleural layers can become inflexible and restricted increasing the space between the two layers.

Sometimes the fluid found between the two layers over accumulates, increasing in volume and then taking up the space in the chest cavity usually used for the lungs as they expand and contract during

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breathing (inspiration and expiration). This over accumulation of fluid is called a pleural effusion.

Malignant Pleural Effusions Certain types of cancer can spread to the pleura and cause a pleural effusion. Lung and Breast cancer are the most common causes and being the more common of cancers this results in significant numbers of people being affected by fluid accumulation in their pleural space. Fluid in the pleural space due to cancer spread is referred to as a malignant pleural effusion.

Diagnosing Pleural Effusion Your doctor will perform a physical examination and listen to your lungs with a stethoscope. He or she may also order a chest X-ray, Ultrasound or CT scan to help diagnose pleural effusion. In a pleural fluid analysis, your doctor will remove fluid from the pleural membrane area by inserting a needle into the chest cavity and suctioning the fluid into a syringe.

The procedure is called a thoracentesis.

The fluid will then be tested to determine the cause.

Treating Malignant Pleural Effusion Generally, treatment involves draining the fluid from the chest cavity, either with a needle or a small tube inserted into the chest. You may need this treatment more than once if fluid re-collects. Usually the doctor will perform a pleurodesis which is a treatment that creates mild inflammation between the lung and chest cavity pleura. After drawing the excess fluid out of the chest cavity, a doctor injects an irritant into the area. The irritant is often talc. The talc causes the two layers of the pleura to stick together and prevents the buildup of fluid between the two layers by getting rid of the space between them.

Treating the Cancer If the presence of the pleural effusion is the first indication that the cancer has returned or spread it is likely that further anti cancer treatment with chemotherapy will be suggested.

Once again Birstall BAGs are delighted they have been able to support the Pleural Disease Team at the University Hospitals of Leicester through the purchase of the portable ultrasound machine. A huge thank you to all of our supporters for making it possible.

For more information please visit:University Hospitals of Leicester Cancer Information Centre on 0116 258 6189 For more information on the funds we have raised, projects we support and forthcoming events see www.birstallbags.co.uk Contact the BAG’s by email birstallbags@hotmail.com

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.

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Planning P/18/0237/2: 16 Station Rd – erecting of replacement dwelling following demolition of existing dwelling P/18/0292/2: 15 Moorgate Ave – the erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 4.2m with a max height of 3.45 with a max height of 3.45m and height to the eaves of 3m P/18/0208/2: 8 Station Rd – erection of 2 storey front, side & rear extensions, single storey rear extension, loft conversion and fenestration and roof alterations P/18/0214/2: 13 Wanlip Ave – 2 storey extension to side/rear and single storey extension to side & rear of semi-detached house P/18/0176/2: 10 Nether Hall Lane – erection of detached double garage P/18/0165.2: 16A Copeland Rd – works to 1x tree (Tree Preservation Order)

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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,

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2018

20