Birstall Post (418) May 2018

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

MAY 2018

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 418

Cracking time on egg hunt PRIMARY SCHOOL pupils took part in an Easter egg hunt at Cedar Mews care home.

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Organised by the PTA at Hallam Fields School, children met care home residents as they searched for the eggs, with a special prize for the finder of the Golden egg.

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Pics: children from Hallam Fields school & residents enjoying an Easter egg hunt at the Cedar Mews care home

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Funding boost for CCTV scheme

A PROJECT to extend CCTV coverage along Sibson Road has received a boost after Borough Councillors pledged to donate £1000 each towards the scheme.

In April, Charnwood Borough Council agreed to implement a new members grant scheme which provides £1000 for each borough councillor to award annually as a grant to a worthwhile cause within the ward.

Birstall has four Borough Councillors and three have agreed to use their grant to back the CCTV project, which is being planned by the Birstall Business Co-operative (BBC).

Borough Councillor Roy Rollings said: “We carefully considered representations made by the Birstall Business Co-operative in relation to the need for CCTV in the village. We looked at alternative funding avenues however it seemed many grants from local authorities or charities would not cover such a unique project.

“Charnwood Borough Council have just introduced a Members Grant Scheme giving local councillors the power to award up to £1000 a year to

projects in their ward. It seemed like the obvious way to help kick start the fundraising campaign for the Birstall Business Cooperative. We have agreed, subject to a formal application being approved, that myself, Cllr Iain Bentley

and Cllr David Gaskell will pledge our first years grant to the project.”

Councillor Renata Jones feels that as it is public money, she needs to consult

residents before committing her £1000 grant towards the CCTV project. She is inviting residents to email her with a YES to support the CCTV, a NO if they do not support it, and to email her with alternative suggestions for where the grant could go. cllr.renata.jones@charnwood.gov.uk Spokesperson for BBC, Shona Rattray of Filigree Heart, said: “With the three councillors support we have £3000 already towards the CCTV costs and with the public’s help hopefully we can get Renata Jones’s support too, giving us £4000 towards the project.”

She added: “ Birstall businesses are also pitching in and pledging money which is hoped will be in the region of the amount already raised.

The group is also putting charity funding and grants opportunities into work and hope to get the funding within the next 12 months with the works carried out soon after.”

The proposed CCTV scheme would

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feature four or five cameras covering around 50 businesses along Sibson Road - there have been more than a dozen break-ins or attempted burglaries in the last 12 months.

The CCTV images would be monitored 24 hours a day by the Charnwood CCTV monitoring team who would also provide servicing and maintenance of the cameras if the project goes ahead.

Playground donations HALLAM FIELDS primary school’s PTA are looking to develop the school’s outdoor play areas.

A spokeswoman said: “As a new school the playgrounds need developing with some TLC. We are hosting a day for parents and carers to brighten up the areas with outdoor resources to make it bright and vibrant for learning but we are appealing to members of the community if they can help us by donating materials or lend us their expertise on the day.

“We need wooden pallets, wood off cuts, tyres, leftover paints, spray paints and paintbrushes, tarpaulin, blackboard paint, gutter pipes, hollow cement blocks, bricks, paving slabs, bedding plants, seeds, soil, etc. If you have any items that you no longer need, we would be very grateful for any donations.”

The Playground Development Day is Sunday May 20 so they would need donations before this date. If anybody would be happy to donate, the PTA can collect from you if easier, or if you want to help out on the day, contact Hema on 07834 453500 or hallamfieldspta@gmail.com.

Surgery RAISE LOCAL issues and concerns at a new parish council surgery that starts this month.

Birstall Parish Council will hold the first of its monthly surgeries on Saturday May 5, 10am-12noon at the old council office building at 10 Sibson Road, opposite Birstall Garden Centre.

Two parish councillors will be in attendance,.

Parish Clerk Sue Coulson said: “The surgery will enable residents to bring concerns and issues relative to the Parish Council’s remit, direct to councillors for them to pass on to the office or to the appropriate authority depending on the issue. Residents can drop in for a coffee and a chat and find out a little bit more about what the Parish Council does for them locally.”

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2018

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Vandals damage weir bridge THE BRIDGE over the weir near to Birstall lock was left in a dangerous condition after vandals attacked it in March.

They kicked off 56 wooden rails from their supporting posts on or around March 26.

Lock keeper Peter Price said: “It left walkers, cyclists and young children highly vulnerable from falling into a flooded weir. This is a very popular path used by people of all ages and someone could easily be killed especially in failing light.”

Peter says this is the second time in three years that the bridge has been damaged, and urges anyone with information to contact the Police.

The Canal & River Trust repaired the bridge within 48 hours.

Gas explosion fundraising

Pic: repairs to the bridge underway

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IN THE aftermath of the Allington Drive gas explosion last December, various fundraising initiatives were set up to support the victims.

Our picture shows Jo Murray, Neville Cooke (left), Manager of the Co-op supermarket and Allington Drive resident Julian Howe with a cheque for £1465 which will be presented to the Air Ambulance Service. The money was donated by Co-op customers.

A justgiving website set up by Leah Russell raised a total of £3780. This was divided up and passed to the affected householders except for one person who declined the money, so their share was also donated to the Air Ambulance.

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Parish Council notes

A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on April 9.

Mark Walker, a Resilience Officer for Charnwood Borough Council reported that he was updating the council’s flood response plan. Councillors asked questions and provided information for Mr Walker regarding the location of areas likely to flood in the village.

A member of the public asked if the council’s finances were arranged so that no more than £85,000 was in any one institution, so as to be protected by the Financial Services Compensation scheme.

He also commented that the precept demand per household could have been lowered as there were now more houses in the village that were paying council tax.

PCSO Mark Butler reported there had been 55 crimes in the village in March.

25% of crimes were drive-offs at the Shell petrol station – motorists driving off without paying for their petrol.

It was agreed to pay for the publication of the council’s 12 page annual report in the May Birstall Post at a cost of £913.

It was agreed to donate £490 from the council’s community grant budget to Carl Gunns’ Gym to help pay for a new boxing ring, which is beginning to show wear and tear after 10 years of use.

It was reported that there had been no progress with J Jelly & Sons Ltd in

respect of an agreement to site a compound on the Hallam Fields Road car park for the builders during the construction of the community hall. A meeting for all parties has been arranged to progress the matter.

The Annual Parish Meeting was held on April 16.

Chair Ann Marshall welcomed the public to the meeting and presented the council’s annual report, which includes details of the council’s achievements over the past year and projects for the year ahead.

She said that at the end of last year there had been two sad events, the death of parish councillor Rob Dickinson and the terrible tragedy of the Allington Drive gas explosion, which had seen the community respond positively and promptly and the value of good partnership working.

Youth workers and young people from Birstall Youth Café, a parish council funded project provided at the sports pavilion on the School Lane playing field, gave a presentation about their activities.

These include preparing meals, craft and art sessions, sports activities and a spa night. They have assembled a greenhouse and are growing their own food.

PC Dave Jaeckels has been Birstall's beat officer for the past four and a half years. He said there had been 581 crimes in the last 12 months. Crime was creeping up a bit, he said, but this was

happening everywhere and the figures are also pushed upwards by a different method of recording crimes.

Birstall is a low crime area, he said, with not many criminals in the village compared to other areas. Many of the people committing crime in Birstall were from the city of Leicester which he said caused some communication difficulties between Charnwood BIRSTALL GALA returns this Police and Leicester year on Saturday June 30.

Police.

The one day event organised by BirThe main crimes stall Parish Council, will conclude with a over the past year were: Proms in the Park concert with firework thefts from vehicle finale.

(170); assaults (76); Before the concert starts at 7.30pm, theft of fuel from petrol there will be bands on stage from station (69); burglary 12noon, fairground rides and charity, (58); burglary nonprivate and trade stalls on the School dwelling (50); damage Lane playing field. to vehicle (50).

There will be lots of free attractions The majority of thefts and ample hot food outlets as BBQs are from vehicles showed not allowed. there was no sign of Admission to the event is £1 for forced entry and police adults (18+) - children free. advice was to double If you would like a stall at the gala check your car is contact the council on 0116 2676191 locked and to remove or download a booking form from the anything of value. council’s website.

PC Jaeckels explained the tasks and responsibilities of the local beat team and said the provision of the police office at 10 Sibson Road by the parish council greatly increased

Birstall Gala back in June

the amount of time officers spent on duty in the village.

PC Jaeckels said the current police priority was burglary non-dwelling.

Antisocial behaviour relating to cars parking up and the associated noise and litter had reduced.

Borough Councillor David Gaskell said he would not be seeking re-election in May 2019, and retiring from local politics. He welcomed the parish council’s decision to hold surgeries, saying the borough and county council surgeries had been useful. He said Birstall’s county and borough councillors were fighting for more CCTV for the village and borough councillors had pledged their £1000 annual member grant to the scheme which is being planned by Birstall Business Co-operative.

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2018

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I died and lived to tell the tale, says Jane A WOMAN who grew up in Birstall and whose life was saved by the Air Ambulance Service is urging more people to support the charity.

Professional musician Jane Gaskell (52) was found lying face down and unconscious in the water during a diving training course.

“I was technically dead when they pulled me out,” she said.

But amazingly, the circumstances that surround what she describes as “the incident” meant that she survived and has made a full recovery.

“It sounds strange, but I was in the right place at the right time. Staff at the diving centre are all first aid trained and there is a defibrillator on site. The air ambulance attended and I was taken to hospital in 12 minutes,” she explained.

Jane was on the second day of open water diving training at the UK’s national diving centre in Stoney Cove, Leicestershire in March 2016 when her heart stopped as she made her ascent from a 12 metre dive.

Unbeknown to her at the time, she had a virus which attacked her heart. “I must emphasise it was bad luck and

Pics: Jane Gaskell and (bottom left) the Stoney Cove diving centre

absolutely nothing to do with diving,” she said.

As soon as she was out of the water, fellow divers and Stoney Cove crew started to give her CPR. This was carried on by paramedics and air ambulance crew for a total of 23 minutes and the defibrillator was used SEVEN times in an attempt to get her heart beating again.

After four days lying unconscious in the intensive care unit at Leicester Royal Infirmary, Jane woke up and to the great relief of her family, who had been on a bedside vigil since her arrival at the hospital, she immediately laughed at a

joke.

Jane’s parents are David and Jan Gaskell of Curzon Avenue.

Doctors had warned them beforehand that they couldn’t predict what Jane’s condition would be when – or even if – she regained consciousness and whether or not she would be able to play her beloved bassoon as a member of the BBC Concert Orchestra.

Jane said: “It’s a miracle that I survived. To have technically died and lived to tell the tale and return to work is incredibly lucky. It’s made me appreciate life more and live for the day.”

In total Jane spent three weeks in hospital, transferring to Leicester General before returning to her home in Preston Bissett near Buckingham.

There were loud cheers when she returned to work as fellow musicians in the orchestra had been told that she may never play with them again.

“My colleagues, family and friends are exceptionally grateful to The Air Ambu-

lance Service and all their hard work in caring for me and not giving up hope in trying to restart my heart. I really appreciate everything the fantastic crew did for me.

“There are 60 people in the orchestra and we are like a family. I told them about how vital the air ambulance was to my survival and that it only operates due to charitable donations so we had a collection which raised £750.”

Since returning to work, Jane has performed at many BBC events including The Proms, The Sports Personality of the Year Show and Friday Night is Music Night.

She loves her job and says it is thanks to the swift response of the local air ambulance that she has reached the milestone of being a member of the BBC Concert Orchestra for 25 years.

She said: “To celebrate my partner and I are going on holiday to Thailand, but I won’t be diving!”.

Jane’s mother Jan said: “We cannot express our gratitude enough to the Air Ambulance Service they saved her life.”

The local Air Ambulance Service has two helicopters and covers five counties, providing a rapid response to trauma and medical emergencies.

The average response time is 13 minutes and they have an average of six missions a day.

The service does not receive any government funding - its missions are funded through donations.

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Traveller site rent increases LEICESTER CITY Council is increasing the rent it charges at its traveller sites, including Greengate Nook on Greengate Lane.

Pic: Shelagh Key with her neighbour’s children, (left) Diya Rathod (8) & Ashvi Rathod (6)

Shelagh celebrates her 90th birthday with party NINETY YEAR old Shelagh Key celebrated her birthday with a party at Wanlip church hall on April 14.

Around 50 guests - friends, family and neighbours - helped Shelagh, of Greengate Lane, celebrate the occasion.

“It was lovely to see all my friends, and to have my family there. I am very lucky to have such a lovely, caring family” she said.

Shelagh has two children, Peter and Lynda, and two grandchildren. From the family photo album, Peter had created a slide show of Shelagh’s life, which party guests enjoyed. It started with a photo of Shelagh being held in the arms of a nurse as a newborn baby.

Shelagh has lived in Birstall since the 1950s and was married to husband Frank at Wanlip church. Frank died in 1986.

Shelagh sang in the choir there, was a Sunday school teacher and still attends services.

She was an active member of Birstall Flower Club and Birstall Drama Society, performing in many plays, and she still attends meetings of Birstall & District Local History Society and the St James’ Monday Club.

“I’ve had a lot of operations in my life, there’s been so much the matter with me, I’m amazed I’m still here” said Shelagh.

“I’ve had my ups and downs over the years, but I like to think - I’m still here to cause a bit of trouble!”

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The City Council manages 37 plots on its sites at Greengate Nook, Redhill Nook on Thurcaston Road and Meynells Gorse.

Greengate Nook and Redhill Nook opened in 2014.

A council report shows that it will cost £72,000 to run the sites this year, with £127,000 being spent on three staff to oversee them.

The rental income is £183,000 leaving a deficit of £16,000.

The council will be introducing a five per cent rental increase from May 1, 2018, to generate an extra £9000 a year, leaving a deficit of £7000.

The weekly rent at Greengate Nook, which has 6 pitches will rise from £100.79 to £105.83. The increase at the 10 pitch Redhill Nook site will be the same.

At Meynells Gorse the weekly rent will increase from £90.38 to £94.80.

Residents pay for their own water, electricity and council tax charges.

Dementia carers: support & advice

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IF YOU are caring for someone with dementia a programme of free workshops aims to give you support and advice.

Jeanette Silver, from Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland, said : “Earlier in the year, Local Charity Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland partnered with Dementia Adventures and Cedar Mews Care Home in Birstall to hold a very well attended, Family Carers Workshop. This workshop was particularly aimed at those Caring for someone living with Dementia and feedback was that it was hugely helpful.

“Attendees shared during a break that they felt vulnerable being the main carer on several levels as they hadn’t chosen the role, or indeed been trained for it! One of the main concerns, among others, was moving and handling the people they were caring for yet still staying safe themselves.

“As a result, Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland have again teamed up with Cedar Mews Care Home in Hallam Fields, Birstall and will be holding regular workshops to address the various concerns that family carers have and provide information, training and advice that will aim to make them feel more secure in their caring role.”

The first of the free workshops will be held on Wednesday 16 May between 2 - 3.30pm at Cedar Mews Care Home and will cover Moving and Handling practices.

To book, please call Jeanette Silver at Age UK (Charnwood) Office on 01509 260327, by email on jeanette.silver@ageukleics.org.uk, by

calling Ben Dalgetty at Cedar Mews on 0116 267 4835 or by email on cedar.haa@cinnamoncc.com Jeanette said: “We look forward to seeing you then, but do call in the meantime if you have any questions.”

Pupils take to the stage YOUNG PEOPLE from Birstall’s Faces Arts performing arts company participated in performances of the musical Annie and their annual commercial street show.

Annie was staged at the Palmer Tomkinson Centre, Birstall in March and the street show was performed at Groby college in February.

Faces Arts Director Jody Chesterton said: “Faces Arts is about providing opportunities for local children to discover their performing talents. The development in their ability and self confidence of the children had been outstanding.

A huge well done to all the children who took part.”

Faces Arts hosts a variety of classes for children and will also be staging their Summer School on August 6-10 at The Cedars Academy (PTC). For more information on the variety of sessions please visit www.facesarts.co.uk

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2018

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and Us vs Them; and how to use video online to build positive communities and counter radicalisation first hand. This includes gaining an understanding of the differences between free speech, hate speech and fake news.

With more and more young people engaging online and through social media, it is more important than ever that they know how to make the most of the internet in a way which is safe, where they act as responsible internet citizens, and where others are respected and unacceptable behaviour or language online is called out. This important initiative does just that, and I was impressed by the enthusiasm and engagement of the students and those running the sessions. It is great that this initiative by Google is benefiting students locally at the Cedars in Birstall As always, if there is a local event you'd like me to come to, or if I can be of assistance to you, please feel free to email me at: edward.argar.mp@parliament.uk or write to me at: Edward Argar MP, House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA. Edward Argar MP

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

Cedars Last month, I had the privilege of visiting the Cedars Academy in Birstall, to join some of the ‘Be Internet Citizens’ workshops being run by Google in partnership with the Academy for Year 10 students. It’s always great to visit the Academy and particularly on this occasion, following its well-deserved 'Good' rating by Ofsted.

The workshops focus on encouraging young people to have a positive voice online, while staying safe. The internet is a space where anyone can have a voice, be part of a community and generate positive social change, but many people will have also come across misleading, offensive or hateful content that they sometimes feel powerless to challenge.

The ‘Be Internet Citizens’ programme focuses on how to spot negative behaviour online, how to escape social bubbles; understand concepts as scapegoating; emotional manipulation

Food Hub I’d just like to confirm that the Birstall Food Hub is a ‘satellite’ of the Soar Valley Community Food Project in Rothley and is not associated with the Trussell Trust.

We will be at the Methodist Coffee Shop, Wanlip Lane, opposite Riverside School most Tuesday mornings between 10am and 11:30am. Do contact us on 0730 509 3791 for more information, or drop in and have a chat with us.

Gill Chester, Birstall Food Hub

Village or town?

Now here is a good question for all readers of the Birstall Post.

Is a settlement of 15,000 residents a village or a town?

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Do any villages you know have three bank branches, two local supermarkets, a post office, a vet, three chemists, three opticians, assorted smaller retailers and numerous other local businesses (don’t forget a couple of electrical wholesalers)?

The reason I ask is that villages need to fight to get outside investment whereas a town, by it’s very title, to outsiders is larger and worthy of investment. The business co-operative in Birstall has a plan to encourage more residents to shop in the ‘town’ such as asking for support.

Birstall has two distinct shopping areas, secondary area around the Co-op which is blessed with good parking facilities and the primary shopping area around the A6 end of Sibson Road down to Barclays Bank with poor parking facilities. Is it really surprising that shoppers find the likes of Beaumont Leys, Syston or even the Thurmaston shopping area easier? Public transport comprises of a local service covering around one third of residents or a north/south service from Leicester to/from Loughborough, Derby, Nottingham or East Midlands airport up and down the A6.

As the fledgling business co-operative suggests use it or lose it. So what do other readers think? Town or Village?

Norman Cutting

Duck race…

Regarding the annual duck race. I am a parent of four children that attend Carl Gunns’ gym. They are aged 14, 11, seven and eight. This gym has helped them in so many ways. Would you please consider raising funds for this gym? This gym is not just about boxing. It’s a communal place where children of all ages and genders can come. They learn new skills, not just in boxing. They learn how to socialise, make new friends, respect.

And this gives them confidence! There is no pressure on them. Children are at all

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different levels. They are all treated as one. Carl is fantastic with the children.

He is warm and welcoming. It’s all about the children. In Carl’s words this gym would not be the same without my kids. Even teenagers come here, it’s somewhere they can come. And not get into trouble. It keeps them off the streets.

This gym is a massive part of Birstall. I am pleased My girls are a part of this gym. So could I please ask the organisers of the duck race to consider fundraising for the gym, this year or next?

It’s a great cause.

Mrs Annmarie Wood To Whom It May Concern I have been a member of Gunns’ Gym for many years and not once have we been considered for the duck race. I would like a reasonable explanation as to why you are ignoring our gym. This gym is the biggest group who provide a safe place for many members of the Charnwood Society.

We here at the gym have a wide community of individuals who are from the Charnwood area; therefore we deserve to be considered for this year’s duck race.

Why do we always get ignored and you neglect to give us a reason why. The members of this gym are not satisfied with the way in which we are being treated. I urge you to take our gym seriously and consider us for the duck race.

Kirsty Harlow I have been to see Carl Gunns personally to discuss this matter last year and over the phone this year. I have assured Carl that we have done the Duck Race for a great many charities over the nine years we have been running the Duck race, raising over £30,000 for Birstall causes over this time: Birstall Bags, The Youth Cafe, Birstall United Juniors Football teams, Acorn Under 5's playgroup, The Girls and Boys Brigade and the Special needs playgroup as well as the Girlguides and Scouts.

Carl and I discussed together how the event takes a lot of organisation from the side of the charity involved as well as the White Horse and can only be a success in raising money if there are a great deal of 'pre duck sales' and actual people available to run stalls on the day.

Carl agreed, both last year and this, that perhaps the Gym isn't in a position to provide these crucial activities.

The White Horse is supportive and inclusive of all those who give their time freely to help others in the community and as well as the Duck Race we also do charity coffee mornings for Macmillan, a yearly ladies night for Birstall Bags and many lunches for Save the Children as well as many other one off events.

We also did an event with Gunns’ Gym last year and I have assured him that if there are ways in which we can support their fundraising activities they only have to ask!

Charlotte Foy, The White Horse

Thanks I would like to say a big thank you to whoever is responsible for clearing the litter on Meadow Lane.

I walk down there everyday with my dog and was beginning to think that it had become an unofficial land fill site.

However, today when I, my husband and

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2018

YOUR SAY...

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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 Centre Presents The 5th in the 17th series of Sunday Night @ Eight

Organ Recitals on Sunday May 20 at 8pm

by Simon Lumby, St Aidan’s Church, New Parks Admission is free Donations for Church Development Fund Buffet from 7.30pm

Continued from page 8 the dog turned into the lane it was obvious that someone had done a brilliant job in clearing the litter. Thank you.

Let's hope that it stays like it.

Sheree Frost A grateful resident

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2018

Election As my name was mentioned in the last issue of the Birstall Post I would like to explain what happened and why.

Despite there being vacant seats the majority of Parish Councillors twice voted against allowing Norman Cutting being appointed as a Parish Councillor.

A lot of Parishioners spoke to me and expressed their disgust at what happened as they believed it was the Parishioners who should decide who is elected to represent their interests.

Subsequently when another Councillor resigned I asked Norman if he was prepared to stand if enough Parishioners asked for an election and he said he would.

I then got 10 signatures to request an election within the proscribed time limit and delivered it to Charnwood Borough Council.

Had it been necessary I could have

Cheeky Cherubs Parent & Toddler Group

when the Lounge Bar will also be open. On matinee days,5th and 26th May, they can be viewed from 2pm until 11pm

0-4 yr olds Birstall Methodist Church rooms 9.30-11.30am Open every Monday term time Separate baby section No weekly commitment £2 for l adult and 1 child, 50p additional children £1 additional adults This includes snack for the children & unlimited juice, also unlimited tea & coffee for the adults Craft table For further information please contact us on 0793 455 1563 Hope to see you there

The Friends of Belgrave Cemetery

St Theresa’s Social Group June 21st Ely flower festival July 26 th Cotswold tour August 14th Liverpool These are just a few of our 2018 trips For booking or further details contact 07971 721927 All trips depart and return from Birstall

Exhibition & Sale of Oil Paintings at the Little Theatre Dover Street, Leicester, LE1 6PW 23 April – 2 June 2018 A minimum of 20 original oil paintings will be available, priced between £25 and £45, and the exhibition is free of charge.

Paintings can be viewed during normal theatre opening hours, 6pm-11pm Monday to Saturday, got 50 signatures as people were angry about what had happened especially as Norman had previous experience as both a Parish and Borough Councillor.

No one stood against Norman so he got elected by default.

Even now there are still currently three vacant seats on the Parish Council.

Elections are the lifeblood of a democracy and can you imagine what the Country would be like if once MP’s got their seats it was a job for life and they chose their replacements not the electorate.

In May 2019 there will be an election for all the Parish Council seats and it would be nice to think that enough people stand so that all Parishioners get a choice of candidate Julian Howe

Why not join us on a trip to

year. This is the Baldwin Trust, which has two narrow boats for outings. The boats are rather elderly now, and the Trust is aiming to replace them in time. In the meantime, they are hoping to equip the boats they have with defibrillators, and this is what we will be working to achieve with them. A representative from the Baldwin Trust is coming to tell us more about their work and the boats.

It would be lovely to meet you, either in the Day Centre or in the Church

Barnsdale Gardens

Birstall Food Hub

Annual General Meeting will be held on Saturday 12th May 10am-12noon At Birstall Methodist Church.

Wanlip Lane Birstall. LE4 4JS All are welcome

Thursday June 7th 2018 Pick up from Glenfield Coop at 9.30am and The Rothley Centre at 9.50am 38 Beautiful gardens to view, Cafe on site - Price £19.50 per person to include entry to the gardens. Coach will return at approximately 4 - 4.30pm.

Money raised will go to Cancer Research UK (Breast Cancer Research at Leicester University/Hospitals.

To Book – ring Glenise Bowyer, Leicester CRUK Committee on 0116 2871758

St James Monday Group Meet on the 2nd Monday of every month in the Day Centre rooms of the Village Hall, School Lane, at 7.30 p.m. We always like to see and meet new faces, and you would be very welcome.

On May 14th we will be having a short service in St. James Church, which will introduce the Charity we have chosen to sponsor this

In answer to Concerned Resident, I agree, there doesn’t seem to be any pride in some areas, I was taught to keep your front tidy. Also, can something be done about the grass verges that have been damaged with traffic? eg pot holes and churned up grass!

Another Concerned Resident

Sat 2nd June, 10 - 12 noon in the Methodist coffee shop, Wanlip Lane, Birstall.

We shall have a raffle, plants, books and some homemade crafts.

This will be in order to raise money to buy fresh items ie bread and milk to include in food parcels given out to those people in need of this service

Birstall Flower Club 23rd May 2018 @ 7.15pm Birstall Village Hall Demonstration by Lee Berrill called “ Nature’s Song” Visitors welcome - £5 Queries to Sylvia: 0116 2674206 or Mary: 07704398017

Leicester Symphony Orchestra 96th Concert Season Saturday 19 May 2018 7.30pm De Montfort Hall Conductor John Andrews

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Soloist Simon Callaghan Shostakovich Festive Overture Mussorgsky Night on a Bare Mountain Medtner Piano Concerto No 3 Tchaikovsky Symphony No 5 6.30pm FREE pre-concert talk 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 Film Presentations Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council “Whisky Galore” May 11, (98 mins) Our audience enjoys comedy so May's British film is a comedy drama based on a true story, written

by Compton Mackenzie. Set on the northern coast of Aberdeenshire during World War II, there is a shortage of food and alcohol.

However, a wrecked cargo vessel is carrying 50,000 cases of whisky. Not only the crew but the whisky needs rescuing. Where can the villagers hide the whisky and how can Mrs Campbell's son court

the postmaster's daughter?

"Darkest Hour" June 8, (125 mins)

joy your summer break Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall, starting at 7.30pm. Film tickets will cost £5 which will include refreshments and a lucky prize draw during the interval. Advanced tickets may be purchased via the parish office –0116 236 7626 or at the door

Saddington Open Gardens Sat 23rd and Sun 24th June 2018, 10.30 am – 4.30pm.

Food, drinks and plants available for purchase.

Entry cost: £5 per adult and accompanied children 16 and under free. Free Car Parking. Funds for village green Starring Gary Oldman and Kristin Scott Thomas, June’s biographical drama is set during the early part of World War 11. Winston Churchill must decide whether to negotiate peace with Hitler or fight against him. He displays an extravagant sense of humour but how much is his wife responsible for whom he became? This film has won Golden Globes, six Academy Award nominations, Oscar nominations and actually won the Bafta Award for Leading Actor.

There will be no films during July and August. We hope you will en-

Birstall Methodist Thursday Group

Coffee Morning in aid of Air Ambulance Saturday May 12th 10-12noon at the Methodist Church coffee shop, Wanlip Lane.

Books and puzzles, coffee and cakes, tombola and raffle. Everyone welcome

Charity Bedding Plant Sale

10am-3pm at Bradgate Arms, Cropston, Leics.

In aid of Leicestershire Life Education Centres.

Charity Number 1040007

Birstall Tea Dances St James Village Hall Birstall Road, Birstall LE4 4DH Fridays 11th & 25th May 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 Watermead Tennis Club

Open Day 13th May 2018 Anyone for tennis?

We are holding an open day on 13 May between 10am and 1pm.

This is an opportunity for anyone to come and have a fun game of tennis, look around the club, have a cup of tea and take advantage of our 50% discounted membership on the day.

We are friendly club welcoming anyone of any standard to play either socially at our club night or in our competitive matches

Saturday 12th May 2018

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2018

10

Birstall & District Local History Society The next monthly meeting of the Society is to take place on Thursday 10th May 2018 in the Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall, Leics commencing at 7.30pm.

The subject of the talk is "The Hosiery Industry In Leicester In The 20th Century".

The speaker will be Felicity Austin and she will be bringing along a collection of clothes made in Leicester and memoirs from people who worked in the trade.

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 First & Third Thursday of the Month

Age UK Digital Drop-in at Rothley Library. 10am-12noon.

FREE 1:1 help and support with laptops, iPads, tablets or smartphones. A regular group that meets on 1st & 3rd Thursday of each month Every Thursday Age UK are working in Partnership with Fearon Hall, Loughborough and holding regular

New Age Kurling Sessions The “Land” version of the wonderful Ice Curling in the Winter Olympics! This version is open to everyone of any mobility (including wheelchair users) and can be

Electrician Registered part P Fuse board upgrades Garage/Shed supplies Garden/Security lighting Extensions • Rewires Additional sockets/lights Landlord certificates • P.A.T. testing All work guaranteed

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played standing, sitting or standing using a pusher so you don’t even have to bend! Great fun and VERY addictive. On between 1.30pm and 3pm each Thursday at Fearon Hall, Rectory Road, Loughborough. 5 minutes walk from The Rushes or some on-street parking in nearby roads. Cost £2 to include a cuppa and cake! Queries to Age UK on 01509 260327

Cedar Care Circle Because of bank holidays the next meeting will be 14th May. Please come and join our informal support group for carers and cared for sufferers of Alzheimer's and dementia. We share information and problems. We meet at Ruth's Lambourne café Lambourne Road off Wanlip Lane Birstall. 2pm or earlier if you'd like to have a light lunch before the meeting. A warm welcome awaits. End the loneliness and isolation by meeting fellow carers. For more information contact Barbara on 07905760556 The Bark Foundation Supporting HOTPEC Orphanage, Cameroon Presents a

Table Top Sale Saturday 2nd June, 10am – 1pm Birstall Methodist Church Mega Jewellery Stall (Bargain packs available) L.O.R.O.S. tombola & jigsaw puzzles plus a variety of supporting stalls To book a stall tel. 0116 2677576

Birstall & District Art Society

Roy Morris

Every duck has his day

MONDAY May 7th

ORGANISERS HAVE been tirelessly planning for the past few months, ducks have already been sold in their flocks, and the sun has started to shine - this can only mean one thing - the 2018 Duck Race at the White Horse Birstall is just around the corner, and it's shaping up to be a fantastic day out for all the family.

Tuesday, 8th May, at 7pm You are invited to join us at the Palmer-Tomkinson Centre at Cedars Academy, Wanlip Lane, to watch exciting professional artist Richard Holland giving a demonstration entitled “Seaspray and Water” using oil paints. Don’t be intimidated by the medium, this could be just the hobby for you!

Newcomers and visitors most welcome. Refreshments available at the interval. Demonstration to end at 9.00 p.m. Members £1; Guests £3. Free raffle. Ample parking and wheelchair access.

Bowls Club Open Days Friday 11 May 6-8pm & Sunday 13th May 2-4pm Have fun and stay fit. Friendly club. Just bring flat shoes. Qualified coaches on hand. St Margaret's Co-operative Bowls Club Co-op Sports Ground, Birstall Road, Birstall LE4 4DE. More details at www.smcbc.com or ring Don on 0116 2873783 or Sam on 0116 2677372

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In case you've somehow missed it, this year's Duck Race will be taking place on Bank Holiday Monday May 7, from 12 noon and the main proceeds will be donated to the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) of Riverside towards their School Pool fund. So far, since the inaugural Duck Race in 2009, over £30k has been raised for local charities and community organisations.

Charlotte Foy from the White Horse said: “The community aspect of the Duck Race is always the main focus and this year is no different, with many of Birstall's groups and business’s combining with the organiser of this ubiquitous event in Birstall's social calendar.

“All three primary schools' PTA's are joining in to help the fund-raising efforts and are assisting running stalls, games and activities that take place throughout the day, the Guides are also raising funds for their forthcoming overseas trips and Acorn under 5’s will be providing craft activities for the children too. The Dance Academy will be providing a nail bar for the more glamorous consumer as well as some dance activities, and Silly Prices will be in attendance with balloons and helium for all!”

As well as the renowned Duck Race kicking off at 2pm, there will be a wide array of stalls such as Cakes and books and lots of games such as Tombola’s, the Ducky Derby and penalty Shoot-out by Birstall United to ensure that everyone's tastes are catered for.

And as well as this large and diverse selection, there'll be the usual Duck Race favourites of a bouncy castle (thanks to Kaine’s Castles), face painting, duck memorabilia and much more.

“Webster, our Duck Mascot is now a familiar face in the village as he’s visited both Riverside and Highcliffe primary Schools to meet the children and has even been seen fund raising outside the Co-op!” said Charlotte.

“Look out for our Duck Race tree wrap which is now sponsored by Wool Obsession on the corner of Greengate Lane, so keep your eyes peeled!” she added.

The usual refreshment selection will be provided by the White Horse, with the bar opening at midday and a large barbecue in operation throughout the afternoon. It will also be the inaugural opening of the new Garden Bar and Pizza kitchen.

Ducks are currently available to buy from Riverside primary schools, as well as from the White Horse bar. There'll also be plenty of Ducks to buy on the day.

And with a first prize of £100 and over 30 great prizes for Duck Race winners, there really is no reason to not back a duck or two.

11

New shop supplies quality spectacles

Tributes paid to dedicated broadcaster

THE SMART addition to Birstall’s Sibson Road shops is the newly opened Prospecs, a supplier of top quality spectacles.

THE FOUNDER of a community radio station that helped many young people into a career in broadcasting has died.

Graham Coley (61) of Curzon Avenue, The business is owned and run by Birstall, started Takeover Radio in 1998 Teresa and Mike Keily and has just reloand took it from having short term temcated from Rothley after 25 successful porary radio licences to full time comyears in the village. munity radio stations, first in Leicester Mike said: “Lots of you will already and then Ashfield in 2010. be familiar with Prospecs - as a customBroadcasting on FM (103.2) and er, having been recommended by friends, online, Takeover Radio specialises in or seeing our advert in the Birstall Post helping children and young people gain There is an extensive range of frames over many years.” experience of radio broadcasting. on display, including designer and preBetween them, Mike and Teresa have Graham was diagnosed with bladder mium brands such as: Silhouette, Rayban, 70 years experience in the manufacture cancer in 2016, just weeks before he Michael Kors, Armani, and dispensing of specwas due to retire from his management Hugo Boss and many tacles. post with Central England o-op and others.

Also on offer is Teresa said: “We begin running Takeover Radio full time. a wide choice of value have been tucked away Sharon Komrska-Clark-Monks, Managframes with prices on an industrial estate ing Director of Takeover Radio, said: starting at £19 and in Rothley where we “Graham fearlessly and stubbornly recomplete specs from were attached to our fused to let gruelling and invasive treat£49. manufacturing business. ment interfere with his “The lenses are the We needed to relocate dedication to Takeover. Graham – most important element and decided on Birstall as the best locabeing Graham, kept the serious nature in a good pair of spectacles” says Mike. tion to open larger, more prominent of his illness quiet from all but a few premises to welcome our customers. We “There are hundreds of different lenses friends and colleagues, not wanting to just bring us your prescription and we hope we have established a reputation upset the youngsters who train at the can explain and advise you on the choicfor providing great customer service and station.” es available.” expert advice.”

She added: “Graham’s commitment He added: “Our prices on the display are for the frame only because there are and influence of generations of young so many different types of lens, we don’t people can never be underestimated. price assuming the most basic lenses are Many have forged careers in radio and television as a result of cutting their going to be fitted.” broadcasting teeth on Takeover Radio.

The shop has an onsite lab where He was Takeover’s backbone; dealing your spectacles are finished to the highest standard using state of the art equip- with all aspect of station management from fundraising to engineering and ment and Prospecs offer a One Hour programming with a bit of carpentry Service (subject to your lens requirethrown in for good measure. Even while ments). his illness progressed, and he was in Prospecs, 121 Sibson Rd, Birstall extreme pain, Graham would still spend www.prospecs.co.uk

Pic: Graham Coley, founder of Takeover Radio

as much time as he could working on the many all consuming tasks involved in running Takeover.

“Graham was an extraordinarily dedicated man and we are distraught at the loss of our great friend, mentor and inspiration. Out thoughts are with Graham’s wife Mel and their family.”

Graham’s condition deteriorated while on a family holiday in Spain and he was flown home and admitted to the LOROS hospice.

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2018

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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NHW news

& crime report

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2018

THE WEATHER is getting better and many of us are spending more time in the garden.

If you are going into your garden, please make sure that you lock any doors that are out of your sight and also close any windows. It is easy to forget, but an opportunist thief could take advantage (it has happened in Birstall).

Garden tools should always be put away securely when you have finished with them as they can be used to gain access to properties, as well as being stolen. If you have ladders that are kept outside, please make sure that they are secure. You can buy chains to lock them or you can buy wall brackets to secure them safely. If you are going to be away please don't make it easy for opportunist thieves. If you can, get a family member, friend or neighbour to keep an eye on your property.

There are many telltale signs that you are not at home, including: bins left out several days after bin collection day, post hanging out of your letterbox, curtains shut all day and deliveries not being cancelled. It is also a good idea to have a timer for a lamp at night, you can also get a tv simulator to make it look like your tv is on.

Our next advice shop is on Saturday May 19 from 10 am until midday. We have a wide range of security items available to buy, which we sell at cost price.

We also code cycles for free and you can buy a very strong D lock for half price at the same time. Please feel free to pop in for a chat and a complimentary coffee or tea!

From Birstall & Wanlip NHW Crime update We have had a total of 55 crimes reported in March, which is slightly up on February, when we had 50.

Theft of fuel from the petrol station has been the main problem this month, with a total of 11 offences reported. The beat team have been up to the garage recently to discuss this ongoing issue and to look at ways of reducing the number of incidents.

We have had seven house burglaries reported this month and five non-dwelling burglaries, three of which have been shops in the village centre. We are obviously keen to reduce the number of burglaries we’ve had recently and are working with local retailers to discuss security ideas. Virtually all of the shop burglaries have occurred in the early hours so if you do travel along Sibson Road late at night (e.g. going to or returning from work) please can I ask that you keep an eye out for any suspicious people or vehicles in the area and contact us on 101 if you suspect they are up to no good. Your assistance will be great-

ly appreciated.

Aside from this no other crime trends have been identified. We have had five vehicles broken into (down from nine last month) five reports of assault (up from four in February) and three drugs offences (all of which relate to people being found in possession of cannabis).

Unfortunately, we are no longer able to give out crime figures for the area however detailed crime figures for Birstall & Wanlip can be found by visiting: www.police.uk/leicestershire/NL60/ Crime Prevention Advice We regularly get members of the public contacting us asking for advice about how to deal with on-line or ‘cyber bullying’. This is when people use the internet to send nasty or upsetting messages to others or use mobile phones to send messages via text or social media etc. The best advice in such situations is to: 1) DON’T RESPOND & DON’T REPLY and tell a trusted adult straight away.

2) SAVE ALL NASTY MESSAGES AND E-MAILS IF POSSIBLE. You don’t have to read them, but save them in a folder somewhere so that you can show an adult if you need to.

3) TELL A TRUSTED ADULT, whether that be a parent, teacher or Police officer. If you tell someone what’s happening they will be able to help and stop it.

Children & young people can also call child line in confidence on 0800 1111 for advice.

Neighbourhood update The beat team have been doing a lot of work in relation to crime prevention and Anti-Social Behaviour this month.

We have delivered vehicle crime leaflets around the whole of Wanlip following a couple of thefts from vehicles in the village and we have also been conducting extra patrols up at the Leicester North Services following complaints about noisy vehicles causing problems in the area. As a result, one driver has been issued with a warning under section 59 of the Police reform Act after he was caught driving in an anti-social manner, meaning that his vehicle will be seized if he gets caught again.

Meet your local police team Sibson Road Beat Office. Saturday May 19 (10am – 12pm).

From PC 1759 Dave Jaeckels, PCSO’s 6611 Mark Butler and 6552 Mo Musa.

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Ady a HATS hero THE EXPERTISE and commitment of a man who ensures HATS’ productions run without a hitch has won an award.

Ady Barnacle received the unsung hero award at the 2018 Pantomime Alliance Leicestershire awards, for the work he does for Highcliffe Amateur Theatrical Society.

Secretary Jenny Garner said: “Although Ady is not a member of HATS, he is a valuable member of our team. Ady is someone we can always rely on to commit to both our Pantomime and our Spring Play, and to ensure that our sound and lighting is perfected and runs smoothly.”

She added: “Ady offers his time, expertise, dedication and commitment to the group for every production. Something he has done for many, many, years.

Without him, we would be lost.”

In addition to Ady’s award, HATS also received two nominations in different categories.

The first nomination was in the Special Recognition Category for the quality of our props. Jenny said: “This award

Pic: Ady Barnacle with HATS’ Gez Stokes

was made possible by our props group member Phill Walton. He did a fantastic job of researching, sourcing and making the necessary props for our cast. The turkey looked good enough to eat. A well deserved nomination.”

The second nomination was in the Comedy Category. This was for the comedy duo of Geek and Gonk, played by Sue Withers and Jo Murray. “They played two comedy cowboys, a bit stupid and a lot of fun, ‘oh yes they were’. Again, a well deserved nomination” said Jenny.

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

B & B: by Bob Tucker Highcliffe school’s Greengate Lane It’s opening week for the Bay View building is being demolished and rebuilt, so Birstall Social Club will host the socie- Bed and Breakfast, but the owners aren’t getting the idyllic escape from the rat ty’s next production. race they hoped for. Guests are leaving A spokesman said: “We have had as fast as they arrive and the demands many years of tremendous support from are almost as bizarre as the pets and 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 habits of the ones who try to stay! to come.”

And does this compare to any B & B This year’s Spring Play “What a Mix Up” will incorporate 2 one-act comedies. you have ever stayed in?

Venue: Birstall Social Club, 16-18 Both of these plays are “by arrangeWanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4JS ment with Lazy Bee Scripts” Dates: Thursday 17th and Friday 18th Two Weddings and a Conference: by May 7.30pm. (Doors open at 7.00pm) Karen Doling Tickets: £6.00 adults £5.00 concesA double-booked wedding reception sion. £20.00 for family tickets (2 adults at a hotel causes havoc for the brides, and 2 children) grooms, manager, receptionist and the Discount for group bookings of 10 or attendees of a conference that is supposed to be happening at the same time! more people (price available at time of booking).

However, it soon transpires that the Tickets available from the box office: double booking is not the only coinci0116 2216019 or 07963 432020 dence they will have to deal with! or by email at Does this compare to any wedding hatstickets@hotmail.com you have ever been to?

13

Playgroup is a special place FOR MORE than 40 years the Birstall Methodist Church Special Needs Playgroup has provided an invaluable service and support to the children that use it and their families.

The group has been part of the church’s work for over 45 years and was started by two members of the church when they found through personal experience there was no pre-school provision for children with additional needs / disabilities.

A spokesman for the playgroup said: “The group has changed and evolved over the years, but it is still very much needed and valued by Birstall and the wider community. We are recognised by Leicestershire County Council as a valued contribution to the care of disabled children. The support from BBC Children in Need pay the salary of our three staff, and the church continues to provide our venue. We rely upon prayerful support from the church, and a significant number of volunteers that work with us every week.

“The playgroup accepts children under 5 years, with up to 16 children in each of the two sessions per week. The setting is a warm and stimulating place to come and play, and we ensure that all the children can access and be included in all of the activities, no matter what

Andrew Finch THE FIRST headmaster of Longslade College has died, aged 97.

Pic: Deborah Hoggar (seated) caring for children at the playgroup

their disability. We know children need to get messy, be creative, learn to play together and work out how to solve problems, regardless of any additional needs or disabilities they might have. Each session includes sensory play

activities, and we think carefully about opportunities for the children to develop their communication skills and help enable them to make their own choices.

“It is really important to us that parents and carers can leave their children in the session. This means that whilst the children are playing the parents and carers have time to get together for a chat, to generate their own support network, or even just have some time to themselves whilst their children are busy having fun playing with friends.”

If you would like further information, or to find out if there is a place available, please contact Deborah on d.hoggar@btco nnect.com

Andrew Finch was appointed as the first head at the newly opened Longslade College in 1960, a position he held until his retirement in 1981.

Mr Finch was a special guest at the school’s 50th anniversary celebrations in 2010.

Born in Italy, Mr Finch obtained a first in modern languages from Oxford University in 1961.

Registered as a conscientious objector during the war, he worked as an ARP warden, witnessing the death and destruction caused by the V1 and V2 rockets that were targeted on London.

His mother was a concert pianist and Mr Finch was also accomplished on the instrument, giving more then 125 public recitals.

Married three times, his is survived by his three children, three granddaughters and two great-granddaughters.

Pic: Andrew Finch pictured in 2010 with the then principal of Longslade, Liz Hall.

Library closed BIRSTALL LIBRARY will be closed for three weeks from Monday April 23 until Monday May 14.

The closure is needed for the installation of self access technology.

Richard Blunt, cabinet member for libraries at Leicestershire County Council, said: “Installing self-access technology at Birstall Library means library customers are able to use their library card to enter the library in order to borrow, return, renew items and make use of the public computers, wifi and printing / copying facilities during extended self-access opening hours.”

Self-access technology is due to roll out across Leicestershire as part of wider plans to save £1.3million.

The roll out follows a successful trial at Syston Library which ran from early 2017.

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2018

14

Centre needs drivers to cope with demand A SHORTAGE of volunteer drivers is hampering the efforts of a local volunteer centre to keep lonely and isolated people active.

Spokesman for Syston Volunteer Centre Colin Grimes explains: It is a sad fact of modern life that loneliness and isolation are rife within our local neighbourhoods. It is estimated that in Syston and the surrounding communities, hundreds of elderly, disabled and vulnerable individuals go from one week to the next without the oppor-

Pic: Syston Volunteer Centre

tunity to meet and talk to another human being!

The causes of this social “scourge” are readily identifiable. Our modern population has to be much more mobile than was the case - jobs “for life” are very much the exception and employment opportunities have to be taken wherever they occur, taking children away from the “home” community. Dual incomes are now almost essential if a decent standard of living is to be achieved. The natural consequence of these factors is the dispersal of close family around the country (or world) and, for those who do stay close, there just isn’t the time to keep in regular and supportive contact. Spouses inevitably pass

away. Motivation to “get out and about” declines. Lassitude sets in and, almost invariably, brings about a decline in mobility and general health and wellbeing. The trap has been sprung!

Local community service agencies of

Chicks arrive on Easter Monday THE ‘CHICKEN Project’ at the HOTPEC Orphanage in Cameroon has proved to be quite a hit.

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2018

The orphanage, supported by Birstall’s Bark Foundation, turned a derelict building into a poultry house big enough tor 1000 chickens.

The orphanage plans to sell chickens and eggs at the local food market as well as providing food for the orphanage’s children. The first chickens to be reared to 12 weeks arrived at HOTPEC during March.

Then on Easter Monday 500 one-dayold chicks arrived which will become the egg layers to raise additional funds for the benefit of the children. The earlier hens will be sold to the market for meat. Children enjoyed their Easter feast from the first chickens to be used for food for the hungry children. The photographs show the first chickens received into the new chicken house, the one day old chicks received on Easter Monday and children enjoying their Easter meal treat.

“This project has been one of the most inspirational so far and has been appre-

ciated by Beatrice (the Matron), volunteers, staff and management of HOTPEC” said David Bark from the Bark Foundation.

Pics: the first chickens received into the new chicken house (below), the one day old chicks received on Easter Monday (left) and children enjoying their Easter meal (top)

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all kinds are struggling to address this expanding - and potentially fatal - epidemic.

Both Central and Local Government are aware of this serious community health threat and, in spite of serious cuts in overall funding for services, are currently managing to sustain financial support for local agencies, helping them to address the issues.

Registered Charity, Syston and District Volunteer Centre, currently receives significant community transport grants to provide subsidised transport for all elderly, lonely, disabled and vulnerable people in their 25 square miles catchment area. They currently have close to 1200 registered users of the services which they provide. Demand is growing but their ability to respond positively is severely limited by a shortage of volunteer drivers.

Two types of driver are required.

In return for a generous mileage allowance, using their own vehicles, volunteers operate the Social Car scheme.

Drivers determine their own patterns of availability and control the number of hours involved as they enable lonely individuals to stay in touch with family and friends, to keep appointments, to do their shopping and to continue to play an active part in community life.

The Centre also needs drivers for their small fleet of minibuses used for group activities and excursions. These trips are designed to give people who would not otherwise get out the chance to keep in touch with old friends, make new ones, meet other people and have an enjoyable day out. Full driver training is given, free of charge. The minibuses are also used for local authority contract work, carrying young people and adults with special needs to Day Centres or to placements in special enterprises.

Every one of the current panel of drivers speaks of the deep satisfaction gained from the experience and are left in no doubt about the value of the service they provide to those in need.

Anyone interested in joining in the battle against loneliness, by devoting a couple of hours a week as a driver, should contact Centre Manager, Mark Smith (Tel: 0116 2607 888; email: info@syston-vc.org). Further details of the wide range of Centre’s services can also be found on the web site: www.syston-vc.org

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Local support available “WHAT’S IN it for you?” is the theme of a groundbreaking exhibition, organised by Syston and District Volunteer Centre, to be held in the Syston Community Centre on Saturday June 9, from 10am-4pm.

There is no charge for admission and free refreshments will be on offer.

The exhibition will feature the wide range of organisations and companies, based in Syston, Birstall and neighbouring communities, which offer to all ages social, cultural, medical, sporting, educational, financial and emotional support and opportunities to get involved - thereby easing problems and enhancing lifestyles.

Derek Burdon, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at the Volunteer Centre, says: “So many within our local communities are currently suffering unnecessarily. Great comfort and support could be gained from a wide range of local professional and volunteer service providers. The main problem is that not enough people know about what is on offer. This event is a serious attempt to address that issue, bring all the organisations involved under one roof to advertise and promote their services and benefits. The Volunteer Centre is happy to produce and co-ordinate it as part of our 40th Anniversary celebrations.”

The Volunteer Centre promotes and sustains personal independence and community and family ties through the provision of subsidised transport and other volunteer-led services, harnessing and directing local volunteer energies and skills to best effect within the community.

Any organisation that would like to be involved should contact Centre Trustee, Anne Carter (Tel: 07521 393137 email: grannyanniex3@aol.com)

WI news IT WAS a packed house for Birstall and Wanlip WI’s meeting at the British Legion on April 9.

A few new ladies came to experience one of our evenings and they were treated to a very entertaining demonstration and talk by the Charnwood clog dancers.

We will be holding our annual fundraising Coffee Morning at Birstall Methodist Church on Saturday May 19 from 10am to 12pm. This is the place for Margaret’s amazing tombola and to pick up fantastic homemade cakes, plants and crafts.

We are all planning our special outfits for our 100th Birthday Party on June 9 where will be joined by a surprise celebratory guest. It should be quite a celebration.

We have lots more activities planned for our centenary year over the next few months including lots of Theatre trips, a summer outing to Leamington Spa and the National Guide Dog Breeding Centre and hosting Radio Leicester’s ‘Down to Earth’ programme in October.

We hold our next meeting on May 14 when the speaker will be Ian Retson of the Woodland Trust. The competition is a ‘Wooden Artifact’.

From Birstall & Wanlip WI

Bowls open days ST MARGARET’S Co-operative Bowls Club on Birstall Road has two open days in May. A spokesman said: “If you have ever fancied a go at bowls come along to our club in its beautiful setting and see what we have to offer. Whatever your age or ability, I am sure you will get a very friendly welcome.

“All equipment is provided, just bring flat shoes. You will find bowls is a fascinating game that takes a moment to appreciate but a lifetime to master. They always say that taking up a new activity is good for you. So is being outside. And so is gentle exercise. Bowls covers all of these in abundance and in a relaxed friendly setting too.”

The open days are Friday May 11, 6-8pm and Sunday May 13, 2-4pm

Applications are invited for the post of Manager of the Birstall Methodist Preschool The post will take effect from the beginning of the Autumn Term 2018 The successful candidate must be able to show excellent standards of childcare and education and must have strong interpersonal, teamwork and leadership skills along with an excellent understanding of EYFS and working knowledge of current legislation, as well as an ability to demonstrate and implement best practice. The applicant will have at least 2 years experience in an EYFS setting and must have a minimum Level 3 Childcare Qualification but preferably Level 4.

The person will lead a regular team of five assistants plus occasional temporary staff.

The Preschool is open for 15 hours per week operating on Monday and Friday afternoons and Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings term time only.

Meadow Lane litter

The closing date for applications is 31st May 2018.

A GROUP of allotment holders, their friends and family spent a couple of hours doing a community litter pick along Meadow Lane.

Further details can be obtained by contacting the Chair of the Management Committee, David Bark at Birstall Methodist Church, 40 Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester, LE4 4JS, email birstallmc@btinternet.com or telephone 01162 677576.

They filled 20 large bags with litter and also collected a few car tyres and other large items. The parish council provided the bags and the litter pickers and disposed of the waste collected.

Mrs Maureen Ackroyd lives on Blenheim Avenue and contacted the Birstall Post. She said: “They all did an extreme-

ly good job, it was desperately needed, it was looking really awful but looks good now and people in the area are all very pleased. Thanks very much.”

Pic: litter pickers with Buddy the dog

The June issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on June 1.

The copy deadline is May 18.

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2018

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Easter bonnet parade

AN EASTER bonnet parade at Highcliffe primary school raised money for Brain Tumour Research.

There was singing and poetry at the school’s Easter assembly and the children wore the bonnets they had made.

“Wow, they were absolutely stunning” said Angela Kilpin, Wellbeing and Pastoral Lead. “So much work had gone into them. The children looked fabulous, proud and happy.

On top of that we had an amazing number of parents and other family members to support the event, and to make Easter crafts in classrooms,

Flower club cash MONEY RAISED by Birstall Flower Club has been presented to Dementia UK, its chosen charity for this year. made it extremely special. It was a wonderful start to the Easter festivities. Thanks to all!”

New contractor for council homes

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2018

A NEW contractor has been appointed to deliver multi-million pound improvements to borough council homes in Charnwood.

I welcome this continued investment Property maintenance firm Fortem has been awarded a five-year contract by and look forward to seeing the work being delivered to the high standards we Charnwood Borough Council which says the partnership will make council homes require, not just in terms of the installations but also to show that we care for even better in the future. the customer.”

The new contract came into place in Mick Williamson, managing director April following a rigorous tendering procat Fortem said: “We’re thrilled to be ess which involved tenants as well as partnering with Charnwood Borough staff and councillors.

Council, not only to improve their housCllr Leigh Harper-Davies, the Couning but also the quality of people’s lives. cil’s lead member for performance of Working in communities is at the heart major contracts, said: “This is not only one of the Council’s largest contracts but of our business and we can’t wait to begin engaging with the local residents.” one of its most important as it makes Trish Edwardes, a tenant and chair of such a difference to people as we are the Housing Management Advisory Board talking about improving the quality of which promotes tenants and leaseholder their homes.

We based the contract largely on quali- engagement, was on the project board for selecting the new contractor. Trish ty and Fortem were able to demonstrate and Charnwood Housing Residents’ Foa big commitment to that as well as rum member Craig Jordan visited other customer engagement, something which areas where bidders were already workis also important to us. ing on council home improvements and “I was also pleased to involve tenants Craig took part in interviews with bidin the selection process as it’s important they have a voice and are listened to and ders at the Council offices.

Trish said: “We wish Fortem a happy that collaborative working is something and constructive future working in partwe pride ourselves on. nership with the council.”

“It’s now up to Fortem to deliver on The estimated contract value is this contract which I am sure they will around £18m over five years and Fortem do.” will install a number of kitchens, bathCllr Paul Mercer, lead member for rooms, heating systems and doors for housing, said: “This contract means hundreds more bathrooms, kitchens and the Council.

Fortem is based in Hertfordshire but heating systems will be installed providing a better standard of living for people. will be setting up a base in Charnwood.

Janet Waters from Dementia UK received a cheque from the group - the money will be used towards the funding of a specialist dementia nurse in Leicestershire.

Janet gave the members a short talk and told them a little bit about the work that the Admiral Nurses do, together with some facts and figures about dementia.

Janet was invited to stay and watch the demonstration by Roma Berridge (NAFAS demonstrator) and was lucky enough to win one of the arrangements in the raffle.

Pic: Janet Waters receives a cheque from Sylvia Simes, Club Secretary

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Leicester Market improvements A YEAR-LONG programme of works that will transform Leicester’s historic outdoor market was started in April.

The £1.86million scheme will include simple measures – a deep clean, a coat of paint and new LED lighting – as well as more significant changes that the city council say will have a big impact on the look and feel of the market.

Market traders have been consulted on the works, which are the latest phase of a major redevelopment project that has so far seen the construction of a new food hall, the demolition of the old 1970s indoor market and the creation of “New stalls and a better layout will a new public square – all within the last attract new traders to the market, while five years. maintaining the character – and the As part of the new scheme, a section hustle and bustle – that makes the marof the market roof that currently wraps ket unique. around the side of the Corn Exchange “The investment we’ve made in the will be removed and stalls in the area market is already having a positive imwill be relocated, opening up views of pact on the wider area – with new bars the Grade II listed building and the new and businesses opening in the surroundmarket square. ing streets – and I hope that these latest All of the market’s stalls will be reworks will inspire even greater confiplaced, new LED spotlights will be indence in the area.” stalled, and a deep clean will brighten Head of markets Paul Edwards said: up the space.

“The traders recognise that the outdoor Wooden canopy edging around the market needs this investment and have perimeter will give the market a new been involved with our plans from the look, while helping to protect shoppers start. and traders from the wind and rain.

“There will inevitably be inconvenience The layout of the market will be as works get under way, but we’ll be reconfigured, creating better routes trying to keep disruption to a minimum through the site for shoppers and makby working our way around the market ing it easier for traders to showcase in sections. their goods.

“The market will continue to trade City Mayor Peter Soulsby, who throughout the works, so I would urge launched his plans for a major revamp the public to continue to support the of the market area in December 2012, traders while we create an outdoor marsaid: “This latest phase of our market ket that the city can be proud of.” redevelopment programme will transWorks will be largely complete by form the overall look and feel of the spring 2019. outdoor market, bringing it up to the A key approach to the market will standards that today’s traders, shoppers also be transformed, when the city counand visitors expect. cil demolishes the alleyway that leads to “Simple steps, such as deep-cleaning, Dolphin Square. Subject to planning repainting and more lighting, will have permission, 15 Horsefair Street will be an instant impact, but it was important taken down during the autumn, creating that we took this opportunity to make a wide and welcoming entrance to the other changes that would significantly market area and forming a new link improve the quality of the market envibetween Town Hall Square and the new ronment. market square.

New A6 footbridge A FOOTBRIDGE is currently under construction across the A6, connecting Hallam Fields to the park and ride site.

Work on the bridge is scheduled to finish on September 30. There will be some night-time closures of parts of the carriageway. The bridge is being paid for by developer Jelson Ltd as part of section 106 developer contributions for the Hallam Fields development.

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Pic: the new look Leicester Market

Compost your waste AS THE tidying-up of gardens starts apace across Leicestershire, residents are being encouraged to compost their garden waste.

Each year, Leicestershire residents produce more than 300,000 tonnes of rubbish and recyclables. Around 22 per cent of which is uncooked fruit, vegetables and garden waste that could have been composted rather than binned.

To help, Leicestershire County Council are currently offering cut-

Planning P/18/0826/2: 146 Birstall Road – proposed 2 storey side & rear extension, alterations to main pitch roof, loft conversion with front & rear dormers and internal alterations P/18/0816/2: 4 Hermitage Road – single storey rear extension of a detached house to provide provisions for 2 additional bedrooms and a bathroom P/18/0777/2: 54 Queensgate Drive – The erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 5m with a maximum height of 3.7m and height to the eaves of 2.5m.

P/18/0750/2: Loughborough Rd – construction of pedestrian and cycle bridge over A6 Loughborough Rd to connect residential development to park and ride service P/18/0726/2; Highcliffe Primary School, Greengate Lane – demolition of existing junior block and construction of replacement single storey school building and associated playgrounds. Erection of 2 temporary buildings during the course of construction P/18/0701/2: 63 Worcester Ave – the erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 4.620m with a maximum height of 2.955m and height to the eaves of 2.955m P/18/0633/2: 32 Henson Close – erection of single storey extension to side of dwelling P/18/0654/2: 76 Fielding Rd – proposed ground floor cloakroom and utility room to side and formation of car parking space to front of dwelling

Ashton Green PHASE TWO of the Ashton Green development will deliver 305 new homes, with work starting early 2019.

price compost bins at £10.98 to help reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill.

Compostable items include fruit and vegetable peelings, grass cuttings, coffee grounds, tea leaves, newspapers and cardboard boxes which will all decompose in a matter of months.

The resulting compost can then be dug back into the garden to provide nutritious soil for budding crops.

Leicestershire residents can pick up a compost bin at a subsidised price, from only £10.98. The bins are made from recycled plastic, adding to their environmental credentials.

For more details or to order a home composter visit www.getcomposting or call 0844 571 4444.

Residents can also call on the support of a Master Composter, volunteers who use their own skills and enthusiasm to raise awareness of the benefits of home composting, including how it can reduce the amount of organic waste sent to landfill.

Ashton Green will eventually have 3000 new homes, along with a school, health centre, employment land and retail.

Kier Living is the council’s development partner for this second phase, which will cost £85million. It will comprise a range of two to five bedroomed homes with 13 acres of open space.

The first phase of the development, located between Birstall, Thurcaston and Beaumont Leys, is nearing completion by developer Morris Homes.

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2018

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Easter meal at Birstall lunch club THERE WAS a special Easter meal at the Lunch Club, held at Birstall Methodist Church.

“There was lots of fun and laughter and the food was delicious too!” said spokeswoman Eileen Molesdale.

She added: “If you know anyone who would like to join the Lunch Club which meets on Wednesdays at Birstall Methodist church at 11.30am then why not come along and have a chat with Mary?

“People gather in the Coffee Shop or lounge for a chat before having their two-course lunch and hot drink. Any seniors in the local area will be most welcome and transport within Birstall is available.”

Contact 0792 886 4586 for further information.

News from the churches WITH THE major festival of Easter now behind us, we all feel that Spring must have sprung, even if the weather is not co-operating!

We can only hope that with the two Bank Holidays in May we shall see rather more of the sun. In the past, the main May holiday was at Whitsuntide and in many parts of the country this was celebrated with Whit Sunday processions to mark the birthday of the Christian church - the term "Bank Holiday " does not have the same celebratory ring!

Whit Sunday (Pentecost) is on May 20, however at Wanlip on Saturday May 19 the traditional May Fayre takes place from 2pm to 4pm in the Hall with the usual array of cakes, bric-a-brac and goodies for sale as well as a raffle and tombola.

The long awaited talk on Japan, which was postponed by the bad weather earlier in the year, will also take place in the Wanlip Hall on May 11 at 7.30pm. Tickets will be available at the door price £4 to include wine and nibbles.

The Bishop of Leicester has launched an appeal to raise money to help people on the islands in the Carribean, devastated by hurricanes. As yet little progress has been made in rebuIlding and many people are homeless and struggling to survive. For more information, see the website www.leicester.anglican.org

THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2018

From Birstall Parish Churches

Methodist Kitchen Inspection In the same way that commercial food and eating places are inspected by Environmental Health Inspectors, so it is with the two kitchens on the Methodist Premises. The inspection took place earlier this year and it is good to report that the Methodist Church Kitchens achieved Grade 5 which is the highest rating classed as ‘very good’. Considering the many different people who use the kitchens, this rating is credit to them all.

The church is keen to retain this top

rating and urges all kitchen users to follow all the guidelines and especially instructions given by our volunteer ‘Health & Safety Officer’ Graham.

Alas, the main ladies toilets have occasionally been left in a poor state, mainly from the misuse of the ladies’ sanitary bins. These have been used to dispose of food and wrappers etc. All users of the premises are respectfully reminded to please not misuse these facilities.

Most of the rooms on the Methodist Church premises are available for hire.

The rates for most rooms will increase by £1 per hour from September. The worship area itself can also be hired. It is much more flexible now that chairs have replaced the pews. The revised charge for the church itself is £30 per hour in the summer and £45 per hour in the winter. Conversely, the smallest room (quiet room) is only £6.50 per hour.

The premises are in great demand from both church groups and private lettings. To enquire about a room booking please email ‘birstallmethroombookings@gmail.com’ as early as possible.

Baby Grand Following the sad death of Mrs Doreen Morris, who was the church organist at Birstall Methodist Church (see report in January Birstall Post), the church has welcomed the news that Doreen’s ‘Baby Grand Piano’ is to be donated to the church. It will be a while before it is moved but the intention is to organise a ‘ Memorial Concert’ to remember the life of not only Doreen, but also the loss of several other members of the congregation after the piano is moved, & installed.

After School Club On Tuesdays This new venture has started in the Coffee Shop, running between 3 & 4pm every Tuesday during school term times.

There will be a variety of activities on offer including Table Football, Table

Skittles, Bagatelle, Lego, colouring corner find us at: etc etc. Admission is free but drinks will www.birstallbaptistchurch.org.uk. You be for sale. The helpers have given the may like to take a look as, in addition to title of ‘Happy Hour’ to these weekly details of our services and activities, sessions. there is a page where you can read Counselling, Listening & Careers Adabout the Good News (Gospel) and anvice other page (God’s Word) which gives a text from the Bible for every day of the The Methodist Church locally offers sessions to those who may find talking month. helpful. The ‘Safe Space’ Counselling The Lodge Trust Service is available on Mondays and The Lodge is the Christian charity Fridays by appointment (07938779477) based in Market Overton, Rutland, which at Birstall Methodist Church. A Listening caters for adults with learning difficulties.

Service takes place at Bishop Street Meth- They are holding their annual Family Fun odist Church between 11am & 12.30 pm Day on May 19. Their publicity states: on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Drop into “As it is also the day of the Royal Wedthe Bishop Street Café for more informading, there will be a very British theme tion. A Careers Service is running on to the day – so get your flags ready!” alternate Mondays between 10am and Further details can be seen at 12.15pm at Syston Methodist Church in www.lodgetrust.org.uk.

High Street. Drop into the Syston Hub Enquiries about BIBC: please ring Café to book an appointment, telephone 0116 221 4883 the Hub on 07577513949, or via From Birstall Independent Baptist Church Facebook@Syston Hub Café. A small fee or donation is sometimes payable to Easter cover rooms & heating etc.

From Birstall Methodist Church It was good to see so many attending our Easter services. At services on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Sunday Services Easter, we recalled and reflected on the We extend an invitation to you to join events from the Last Supper, Jesus’ beus at our services, when you can be trayal, trial and Crucifixion through to assured of a warm welcome. We will be the joy of the Resurrection. meeting in Room PT1, The Palmer TomWe were pleased to welcome a new kinson Centre, The Cedars Academy, member of the church in Confirmation Wanlip Lane, Birstall (LE4 4GH) on both during the Vigil Mass. The younger mem13th and 20th May but we are not able bers of the church were delighted to to use the premises on the two Bank take home a chocolate egg on Easter Holidays this month, so please ring the Sunday! As ever, a huge amount of work number below for details of our arrange- went into arranging the services and ments. Our meetings start at 10.45am liturgy. and a Sunday School is available for Grateful thanks go to Fr Saji (for junior children during the second part whom this was the busiest of times!) to of the service when held in the school. the altar servers, readers and Eucharistic Our visiting speaker on May 6 is Joe Ministers, choir and musicians and those Bailey (Leicester). who arranged flowers, cleaned the Website church and provided refreshments and Following our change of venue this all who helped make our worship so year, we have taken the opportunity to spiritually meaningful. refresh our church website and you can From St Theresa’s church

Birstall BAG’s cancer corner Obesity and Cancer Birstall BAGs are keen to do all we can to raise awareness about cancer, promote early diagnosis and make people consider some of the ways you can help yourself to prevent cancer.

Last month we spoke about the importance of exercise and this month we wanted to remind everyone about the cancer risk posed by being overweight. So being overweight doesn’t only make you feel more lethargic and less inclined to exercise but it also drastically increases your risk of developing a cancer.

You may be surprised to hear that being overweight or obese is the second biggest cause of cancer after smoking.

Extra fat Extra fat in the body can have harmful effects, like producing hormones and growth factors that affect the way our cells work. This can raise the risk of several diseases, including cancer. More than 1 in 20 cancer cases in the UK are linked to being overweight or obese.

Research has shown that many types

of cancer are more common in people who are overweight or obese, including cancers of the breast (in women after the menopause), bowel, womb, oesophageal (food pipe), pancreatic, kidney, liver, upper stomach (gastric cardia), gallbladder, ovarian, thyroid, myeloma (a type of blood cancer), and meningioma (a type of brain tumour).

The risk is greater the more weight you gain and the longer you are overweight for. But that doesn’t mean the damage is done.

You can help stack the odds against cancer by avoiding gaining more weight.

And evidence is growing to show risk can start to go back down with weight loss. Plus the best ways to lose weight for most people are by eating healthily and moving more which on their own reduce cancer risk.

Please also remember by encouraging your children to lead a healthy lifestyle, you can help them keep a healthy body weight as a child as well as later on in

life.

If you are thinking of losing weight and think you need support, your doctor or nurse will be able to help.

For more information please visit:www.cancerresearchuk.org Or contact 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 BAGs 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.

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THE BIRSTALL POST YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAY 2018

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