Birstall Post (421) August 2018

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

AUGUST 2018

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 421

Birstall yard sale WORLD CUP excitement was on everyone’s mind as they looked for a bargain at Birstall’s Big Yard Sale on July 7.

As England prepared to pay Sweden in the quarter-finals of the World Cup, dozens of homes in Birstall opened their gardens for yard sales at this annual fund raising event organised by Fiona Barnes, this year supporting local cancer Continued on page 2 Pics: Alfie Thompson (8) taking a little rest after a busy afternoon at the yard sale; (below) a sale on Windmill Avenue

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Football club stalwart wins award

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A LONG-standing volunteer at a Birstall football club has received an award.

Continued from page 1 charity Birstall BAGS. A map showing the location of each sale was available at the Co-op and the Lambourne cafe Pic (top): at a stall raising money for a Little Bird SOS, a project which helps people touched by mental health issues, are (l-r) Sally Barratt, Lisa Pidgeon and Elizabeth Thompson.

Jim Lennon, a Birstall resident and volunteer for Birstall United Juniors FC, has won ‘Grounds Team of the Year’ in the Leicestershire and Rutland Football Association Grassroots Awards.

In recognition of his county-wide success, Jim receives a framed certificate, £100 Kitlocker voucher, and two tickets to the Community Shield final at Wembley.

Jim said: “The club has been a part of me for so long now, and it's amazing how many local people have come through the ranks. And things have changed... it's not just jumpers for goalposts, so much goes into running a club and we need help and funding from the local community more than ever. All the effort is worth it though, when you see the kids enjoying their football. I'm very proud the FA have recognised the work that is going into our club... these are

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The FA commented: “Congratulations and keep doing what you’re doing, as it is obviously making an impact in the right way.”

Jim’s daughter Janey Stevens commented on the club’s Facebook page: “So, so proud! Well done Dad... thoroughly deserved seeing as for 30 plus years he practically lived down BUJFC!”

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Tree damaged VANDALS HAVE damaged two flowering cherry trees on the School Lane playing fields.

The trees were planted in February 2016 and have been looked after by the Parish Council’s Estates team. To replace the two damaged trees it will cost the parish council approximately £1000.

CCTV footage shows several young people causing damage to the trees and the tree guards at around 5.45pm on Wednesday July 18. There were other people using the playing fields at this time and the parish council would be pleased to hear from anyone with any information that could help identify the perpetrators. Contact the council on 0116 2676191 or email admin@birstallpc.org.uk

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Lily’s hair raising charity cut “MY HAIR has got so long and I feel that someone who has lost their own hair will be made happy by my donation” says 13 year old Lily Pidgeon from Birstall, who donated her hair at a special event she organised at Birstall Methodist Church.

Lily has decided to split the funds she raises to support two Leicester charitable organisations she knows well - Little Bird SOS and Soft Touch Arts and to donate her cut hair to The Little Princess Trust who will use it to make wigs for children with cancer who suffer hair loss.

Lily’s mum Lisa runs Little Bird SOS who deliver art and craft projects and workshops across Leicester, Leicester-

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having her hair cut as she has only had it done a handful of times since being a baby. But, when Lily announced that she would like to donate her hair to the Little Princess Trust, as well as raise funds Soft Touch Arts and Little Bird SOS, I was blown away. Childhood cancer and improving health and wellbeing are two causes very close to our hearts as a family, and I am so proud of her profound sense of wanting to do something worthy for others in our community and beyond. Lily is already mature and compassionate, and having her hair cut marks the beginning of a new chapter for her, in which I have no doubt that she will become a thoroughly independent, thoughtful and kind young woman... with short hair”!

Lily has also decided to support Soft Touch Arts on New Walk where she attends a weekly music session which encourages girls to get involved in playing, recording and performing their own music. Soft Touch Arts supports disadvantaged young people to build creative skills and a sense of purpose and selfconfidence through arts, media and music activities.

Vince Attwood, director of Soft Touch Arts, said: “We think it is absolutely fantastic that Lily has taken the initiative at such a young age to organise her own fundraising event. She attends our Monday music sessions which support young women to improve confidence and wellbeing through creating music and developing their skills and talents. Her experience has led her to want to help keep those sessions running so that more young women can benefit from being involved”.

Lily’s event featured home baked cakes, craft sales and a raffle and Soft Touch Arts brought their Streetmachine – a mobile music, art and cooking van which they use to deliver street-based creative activities in Leicester’s neighbourhoods. Donations to help Lily reach her £500 fund raising target can be made via Lisa Pidgeon’s fundraising page here: https://bit.ly/2L2T85q

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Village enjoys sun-drenched gala day NOW IN its 18th year, Birstall Gala once again attracted thousands of people to the School Lane playing field to enjoy the event, which concluded with a concert and firework finale.

“A very big thank you to everyone who supported and contributed to the staging of this year’s gala” said Ed Marshall, Chair of Birstall Parish Council’s Events Committee.

Ed says the parish council was pleased that the extra ‘freebies’ provided were popular with families, these included the Giant Hamster Balls, the Climbing Wall, the Caging Experience and the Falconry Displays.

He added: “The ever popular ‘Proms in the Park’ was well supported and ended with a firework display for the

enjoyment of all.

“A number of positive comments have been posted on social media and quotes from a letter received from two residents makes all the hard work worthwhile – ‘the whole event in fact was superb, well organised and had something for everyone. You have done a great job once again. Please pass on many thanks to the Gala/Events Committee and indeed the whole of Birstall Parish Council for staging such a unique event’.”

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Second BBC event promoting local shops

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A SECOND late night shopping event will be held in Birstall next month, following the success of the first event in June.

Faces Arts’ show BIRSTALL BASED performing arts company Faces Arts staged a production of Annie Jnr at the Cedars Academy.

Local children from Rothley and the surrounding areas participated in three performances and Faces Arts director Jody Chesterton was proud and full of

admiration of the students’ achievements.

She said: “Faces Arts is a about providing opportunities for the local children to discover their performing talents. The development in their ability and selfconfidence of the children has been outstanding. A huge well done to all the children who took part”.

For more information on the variety of sessions please visit www.facesarts.co.uk

“We hope it will be bigger and better than before” said Shona Rattray, Chair of Birstall Business Co-operative (BBC), organisers of the event.

“We would love to see lots of local residents coming down to visit the shops on the evening of Thursday September 6.”

As well as the shops being open, RTs Café will be holding another theme night, and BBC is looking for more stall holders. Anyone looking to have a stall at this event should contact shona@filigreeheart.co.uk or message the Shop Local Birstall facebook page.

Keeping the Sibson Road area clean and tidy is something Birstall Business Co-operative is keen to work on. Shona said: “Some of you may have noticed that litter and weeds have been an issue along Sibson Road. Birstall Business “We were really pleased that CharnCo-operative has contacted Charnwood Borough Council to request a deep clean wood dedicated someone to give the area a good clean and hopefully the of this area. difference is clearly noticeable.”

BBC is promoting a scheme to extend CCTV coverage along Sibson Road. Shona said: “The month of August is really important for the CCTV project Birstall Business Co-operative is working on. On Monday August 13 Birstall Parish Council will be debating whether they would like to take on the ongoing servicing, maintenance and monitoring of six cameras that BBC is looking to fund.”

Paul Porter, owner of RTs Café, said “We have been broken into twice over the last few years. We feel it’s really important for the shops and businesses in our local community to be secure and after so many break in’s over the last few years monitored street CCTV is needed.

Syston Town Council already has CCTV cameras that cover the main shopping street and we are asking for the same in Birstall.”

Shona said: “Anyone looking to show their support for the CCTV agenda point can attend the Birstall Parish Council meeting at the Village Hall at 7pm on August 13, or message the Shop Local With INGRID KLEINS-DANIELS Birstall facebook page.”

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THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2018

Lady bowlers’ day ST MARGARET'S Co-operative Bowls Club celebrated Lady President's Day on an extremely hot and sunny Sunday, half way through July.

The ladies (pictured above)played a short game of bowls followed by tea during which gifts and cards were presented to President Brenda Gamble.

The ladies section of the club was formed 25 years ago and Brenda was one of the founder members. She remembers the early days of the club. “It was very exciting. Most of us were the

wives of men bowlers who had started their club a couple of years earlier.

Very few of us actually knew how to bowl at all!”

The ladies' section has flourished over the years with a great spirit of camaraderie. Brenda has held the post of President three times in her 25 years at the club. She said: “I consider it a great honour. We are looking forward to a celebratory match at the end of August against ladies from Bowls Leicestershire.”

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Waist length hair cut for charity New

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NEW GRADUATE Tanisha Patel will be starting medical school in September with a new hair style she planned three years ago.

Tanisha (21) had always had long hair and decided then that when she graduated she would have it cut and donate it to the Little Princess Trust which uses it to make wigs for people being treated for cancer.

“Getting my hair cut was a decision I made in my first year at university” said Tanisha, of Harrowgate Drive, who visited Short & Lunn on Sibson Road for her hair cut.

“I have been thinking about this day for a while but when I actually sat in the salon and heard the scissors cut my hair, I completely lost it, I didn’t realise how attached I was to my hair.”

She added: “Saskia has done an

BIRSTALL RUGBY Football Club has appointed a new Head Coach and Director of Rugby.

Pic: Tanisha Patel (left) with stylist Saskia Potter

amazing job, as soon as I saw the new me I loved it, and all the ladies who worked there said such encouraging things – they made me feel so comfortable with my new hair.

“Cancer is a monster and if I can do anything to make someone’s day that

little bit better, I want to do it. As a medical genetics graduate, I appreciate the work it takes to study cancer and the research taking place in labs to actually understand and theorise methods to fight it. That is why I was raising money online for Cancer Research UK too because

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New church A NEW church begins in Birstall next month.

On Sunday September 9 at 11am, Trinity Life Church (TLC) will meet at Birstall Village Hall with accessible worship, children’s work and a gift for every visitor.

“We are so excited to be planting a church campus in the Village Hall, Birstall” said Senior Leader David Hind.

“Susan and I live in Birstall and it is our privilege, alongside other churches here, to bring a bit of the TLC version.

We believe every person is precious and that faith in Jesus should be real and impacting in our lives. You are so welcome to visit and we look forward to getting to know you”.

Trinity Life church already has a number of small groups in the Birstall area.

In the Village Hall the church will offer Alpha courses and a half term club for 5-11 yr olds called Schools Out. They hope to begin a Tots group and Youth group in the future.

TLC meets in seven church campuses around Leicestershire including Beaumont Leys, Highfields, Oadby and Braunstone.

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George Richardson will now head up the coaching staff and Ross Archard is the new Director of Rugby, following the official retirement of Graham Robinson.

Ross said: “Both George and I are deeply honoured to be at the helm of such a brilliant club. The lads have enjoyed a well-earned rest after a tough but successful 2017-18 campaign; but work has already begun for this year.

“We’ve begun our pre-season training and appointed our captains for the year: for the 1s we have Jack Richardson and Lewis Glover, and for the 2s we have Ben Seagrave and Kane Garner.

“George is a very talented and experienced coach who brings a fantastic style of play to the club, I’m very excited to be working with him this season.”

He added: “We’re always looking for fresh talent to add to our squad or members of staff who would like to participate in a fun, friendly environment. If anyone is interested then please come down to the Co-Op Sports and Social Club on Birstall Road during a training session on Tuesdays at 7pm.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank our sponsors and fans for their continued support. We’ll see you on game day!”

WI news BIRSTALL AND Wanlip WI held their final meeting before the Summer Break on July 2.

Like ourselves the RAF is 100 years old this year so we thought it appropriate to have representatives to talk to us about their history. It proved to be a very informative evening enhanced by the pleasantly cool room and equally cool drinks at the British Legion. Anne Waites’ superior paper plane won this month’s very amusing competition.

The summer coach trip this year is to Leamington Spa and the National Guide Dog Breeding Centre. Some members will be joining in a Leicestershire Round walk between July 14-23.

Our next meeting is on September 3 when our speaker is multi talented entertainer Elaine Pantling and the competition is a floral tribute to the Suffragettes.

From Birstall & Wanlip WI

THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2018

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Four tutors up for award

Two friends open cake shop

FOUR LOCAL tutors have been shortlisted for a national tutoring award that recognises the outstanding commitment and profound difference made in a student’s life.

THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2018

The ‘Tutor of the Year Awards’ are designed to recognise tutors for their efforts and successes with students. Celebrating their nominations are Tanzeela, Gill, Charlotte and Jasprit, who all work with the Leicester North office of inhome tutoring company, Tutor Doctor.

“I believe tutoring is very rewarding and being able to work on a one to one basis in doing the one thing that I do best which is to educate growing minds,” said Tanzeela.

“Tutor Doctor believes that everyone can learn – and learn in different ways too. I do what I do to make a difference and because I love seeing my students blossom and grow in confidence and skill over time,” said Gill.

Anita Pancholi, who owns Tutor Doctor in Leicester North, said she was thrilled for all four tutors, and thanked them for the dedication and passion they each show when working with local students of all ages and ability.

“Our tutors come from all walks of life…we have graduates, scientists, lawyers, mums on maternity leave, retirees and everybody in between. What they all share is a passion for helping others to succeed and it’s so exciting to see them acknowledged in this way. Tanzeela, Gill,

TWO FRIENDS from Birstall who love cakes have opened their own shop in Syston.

Kerry’s Celebration Cakes at 1290 Melton Road is run

by Kerry Palmer (42) and Amanda Garner (44).

“We opened three weeks ago and it’s going really well” said Amanda.

Amanda has worked in coffee shops and always wanted to have one of her own, while Kerry is a knowledgeable baker with 21 years experience.

Amanda said: “Customers come in and order their wedding, birthday and any other celebration cakes they need.

Over the counter we sell cupcakes, traybakes, scones, toasted teacakes, tea, coffee and cold drinks.”

The shop also stocks cake

Charlotte and Jasprit are huge assets to the team and they thoroughly deserve to have been nominated. I think because it’s our customers and families who do the nominating and actual voting, it makes it even more special for them to have been shortlisted,” At a home-based consultation, Anita thoroughly assesses a student’s needs and then carefully selects the best-fit tutor based on their goals, personality and learning style. Tutors, like Tanzeela, Gill, Charlotte and Jasprit, will then visit students at home or work with them via an online platform, so that they can learn in the comfort of their own home, at a time that suits them.

“For today’s busy families, this is a real benefit” said Anita. www.tutordoctor.co.u k/leicester-north Tel: 0116 319 4416

making accessories for sale, and helium balloons.

Pic: (l-r) Kerry Palmer and Amanda Garner

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YOUR SAY...

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

Thanks On behalf of all of those people who have received a food hamper from St Theresa’s Church, we would like to say a heartfelt thank you. We appreciate your support and kindness. Most people, with the exception of a few, are now back in their houses.

Allington Drive Residents

Memories Browsing the internet recently and found the Birstall Post, how interesting to read about the village where I grew up. I have lived in Oregon in the Pacific northwest for 50 years now but still occasionally

get back although there is no family there now.

Born in Birstall in 1937, I went to school on Wanlip lane, Mr Smith was the head and he carried a cane almost everywhere, Miss Athow was the infant school head. Played on the fields by the Railway tracks, went skinny dipping in Wanlip gravel pits, I remember waiting to cross Loughborough rd and waiting for long convoys to pass by, took the dreaded 11 plus and went to Loughborough College school, meeting friends at the bus stop on Red Hill early in the morning. I lived there until 1964 when I married and moved into town.

I last visited Birstall three years ago and so much is still familiar I have many memories of those times and the friends I had I wonder how many are still around?

Geoff Bamkin geoffbamkin@yahoo.com

Pathway There is a pathway that runs along side the Hallam Fields Road playground that has recently had a post installed at the top and bottom end . To say this job is “messy” would be an understatement , there is now about two metres of concrete slurry all over the tarmac (both ends) and mess up the posts. Even the worst DIY person in the land could not make such a bodge as this! I live close nearby and I do not want to look at this rubbish work till my demise . This will need to be rectified! (and certainly at no cost to the council, ie meaning the good people of Birstall ) Mr A Cole (copied to Birstall Parish Council) Thank you for your hand delivered letter and photograph received this afternoon, whilst I appreciate your concern I can only inform you that this is not work that has been carried out by the Parish

Council.

Depending on whether or not the area of land you have described has been adopted, the responsibility lies with Jelson Ltd or Charnwood Borough Council.

Sue Coulson - Clerk to the Council

Improvements Having been up here (Wanlip) for just over two years and finding local public transport slightly disappointing particularly east/west or even simply getting into Birstall, a car is a necessity rather than a luxury (street view actually showed a bus stop outside our new abode). However, car parking for the nearest banks or Tesco is a real struggle. Of course, you could walk about a mile from the other end of Birstall (and back!) which is OK if you are fit and youngish – but I’m neither.

The Parish Council pointed me in the direction of the Co-op or the car park near the roundabout. I then looked at the rather wide ‘new’ footways and thought what a waste. It seems that these were created by the Parish council some 20 years ago out of the front gardens of the houses that formed the ‘new’ retail area. The boundary demarcation line is the nice chrome railings separating the official footway from the ‘private’ area. Let’s be honest, times have changed, new developments taken place and car usage increased (along with pollution concerns) a phone call to the borough as they were improving Loughborough Town Centre so seemed an obvious starting point. They pointed out that the Parish Council is the source of the solution if they had a local plan and was out of their hands and anyway, Loughborough had a local plan.

As you all know, funding at the Borough is limited by the government, however

Parish Councils have no such limits – for the moment. More investigations suggested the government should resolve this loophole and put a cap on Parish Councils in three years or so.

By the time the Borough has pushed a few more local services onto Town/Parish Councils, will funding ever be available to improve retail parking or even subsidise ‘round town’ public transport? I can think of several areas of Birstall (new and old) that a local two hour service would be useful but without the Parish Council getting involved it will never happen.

On 13th August there should be an opportunity for you to query your Council as to what, if anything, they could do about improving Birstall.

Norman Cutting

Congestion Having read Mrs Gamble's letter, Dr Sutton's reply and the Parish Council notes in last months Post, I think PCSO Butler's suggestion, that one way traffic possibilities be investigated for next year’s Meadow Lane junior football tournament, is an excellent one. I also had frustrating access issues that weekend, and was unable even to turn into Blenheim Road one day, so had to go elsewhere.

No one (I hope) begrudges the children or the club their success, but the marshals were blocking left turns out of Meadow Lane on the day that I had managed, eventually, to reach the country park car park, so one way traffic was already in force, just without advance authority.

Also, I suspect large emergency vehicles would not have been able to get through at many points where people had

Continued on page 9

THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2018

8

Continued from page 8 parked both sides of roads.

The event seems to have outgrown the current capacity of volunteers to marshall traffic on the days it is held. Maybe the time has arrived for advance signage and advertising of diversions, no parking or one way restrictions? I hope the PCSOs will be taken up on their suggestion to achieve that. Then next year all concerned can have better, safer access to their recreation of choice, whether football, the park, or the allotments.

I do see and appreciate the work of Jim Lennon to maintain Meadow Lane, and the litter picks sometimes undertaken too.

Thank you for that and good luck to the children for the next season.

Mrs H Edwards

Care home

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 d-woods1@sky.com or Bob 07927 346640 www.birstallrc.org.uk

Councillor Surgery Last Sat of every month

I am writing to tell you and your read10am to 12noon ers about a new, free advice guide from 10 Sibson Road, Old Council Office Independent Age, the older people’s charity, Talk to your District & County Councilcalled Settling into a care home, which aims to make the transition of moving into ping on line. Equally interaction with one a care home easier.

There are currently more than 400,000 another is a valuable part of shopping and social inclusion. The shopping event was people living in care homes in the UK, but an enjoyable evening out. Not everyone many new residents don’t know what to expect when they get there, or how to plan wants to go to the Pub, Park or belong to a Club. Fosse Park or Highcross Centre do ahead for their move. Moving to a care home can be a very stressful time for older not have the atmosphere which the BBC created that day. people and their families. It’s a big change However, what could be improved is for and it can take time to adjust to the new the Parish Council to drastically improve surroundings. The guide aims to make this the "Free Car Park" signage for the Edith process smoother and less stressful.

Murphy Car Park on the Crossways and the Settling into a care home, which was Large Car Park on Sibson Road. The public written with advice from care home staff, toilets on Stonehill Avenue are a valuable residents and family members, offers adamenity to this village and it is greatly vice on planning ahead to help the move appreciated that the Birstall Parish Council go smoothly. The guide includes topics agreed to look after them several years ago. such as thinking about what to take, quesThe facilities within the building could tions to ask before you get there, and tips vastly be improved in my opinion by instalon what to expect when you arrive, as well as advice for friends and family about help- lation of One-stop hand washing stations like those proposed for the School Lane ing someone else settle into a care home.

Park.

Independent Age has also launched a Once again thank you to Shona Rattray free, online checklist for moving home to and her organisation for this event and I accompany the new guide, which can be look forward to the next time. accessed via: independentage.org/movingBirstall resident home-checklist.

Settling into a care home is free to order and download from independentage.org/settling-into-a-careI would like to say a very big thank you home or can be ordered for free by calling to all the ladies who arrived at my door 0800 319 6789. Those who need additionwith wool in response to my ad in Wool al support or advice can call the charity’s Obsession and Birstall Post Office. I help Helpline on 0800 319 6789 to arrange to at a class with students who have various speak to an adviser. learning difficulties and one chap loves Lucy Harmer knitting! We have had lots given to us alDirector of Services at Independent Age ready and were able to use the wool in class - we made some great stuff and we would love to receive more. We have great fun doing art & crafts with Annie and alCongratulations to Birstall Business ways have time for tea/coffee and biscuits.

Co-operative (BBC) and to Shona Rattray If you know of anyone that may be interestfor the brilliant shopping event held on ed in joining this group then please call June 7, 2018 (5 to 8pm). There are many the WEA, 101 Hinckley Road on 0116 people locally who know about Birstall's 2556614. If you would like to make a diverse range of shops but are unable to wool donation please call me on use them due to work commitments. It was 07948399770. Thank you everyone! an opportunity for all to come and see Gill Wardle what is available and experience the personal service you get from independent retailers. Large stores are all very well but With everyone having the windows open if you want something that is not "on the whilst it is so hot, I despair when I am shelf" the usual response is "we haven't got kept up until 3am on a Sunday morning, it," and "don't know if further stocks are because of a party with a noisy disco. I can expected". I have found that most retailers appreciate the need to celebrate. But a lot in Birstall will go out of their way to try of people in the surrounding area need to and get something you require, if not a sleep. It totally spoilt our Sunday because suitable alternative is usually suggested. we were so tired. Can anyone tell me if Shopping on-line is the way forward as anything can be done as I am sure this is stock in retail outlets is very limited in going to happen again. some areas. The personal touch of our Mrs D Williams local retailers cannot be replaced by shop-

lors to discuss any issue of local concern

Cheeky Cherubs Parent & Toddler Group 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

Community Bible Study starts again at Birstall Methodist Church Thursday September 6 9.45-11.30am The group will be studying The Acts of the Apostles All welcome. Details: phone Brian 0116 2674339

Stonehurst Farm 1940’s WWII Event Sat & Sun Aug 18/19, 10.30am4.30pm Stonehurst Farm and Charnwood Wartime events present a two day combined weekend 1940’s event. This is a real family day out with a large number of period vehicles and displays of equipment creating a wartime atmosphere. The farm has a good collection of animals for children as well as a Vehicle Museum.

Light snacks and drinks can be found in the restaurant (NAFFI) Both Allied & German Groups are invit-

THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2018

Despair

Birstall Bowling Club

Open Day Sunday Aug 12, 10.30am-1.30pm Open to everyone - come and try out the game All equipment provided, please wear trainers or flat shoes School Lane playing fields, Birstall

Big Summer Holiday Crafts at Birstall Methodist Church 10.30am-12 on Tuesday August 14th "Birstall by the Sea" & Thursday 16th "The Big Picnic" with crafts, games and story time. Free for children and parents

Birstall Flower Club 22nd August 2018, 7.15pm Birstall Village Hall Demonstration by Marie Bradley "Addicted to Strictly" Visitors welcome £5 Sylvia: 0116 2674206 or Mary Linnett: 07704398017

A Policeman's Lot “From The Krays To The Crown” Speaker: Peter Lawrence Ex Metropolitan Police and Royal Protection at Scotland Yard Thurcaston Memorial Hall – Thursday 6th September 8pm – doors open 7.30pm Tickets £5 (including glass of wine) Open to all – friends, family and WI members Contact Mary Blake on 0116 2365179 Organised by Thurcaston & Cropston W I

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Birstall Royal British Legion Club 4th Nick Turner 11th Claire Martine 16th Gary Marshall 18th Kim 25th Gus Ryder 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 12th and 25th July 9pm No Acoustic night Food available Saturdays 12 till 2pm Open Bank holiday Monday lunch 12 till 3 families welcome and food will be served Wakes catered for Free WIFI New members very welcome, easy to join, ask inside • Join us for some

Creative Workshops for your children during the summer holidays!

Tuesday 14th August - A sensory story of a day at the beach.

Tuesday 21st August - Key ring creations!

All events are from 10am - 12pm at Rothley Village Hall. £6.00 per children and include additional activities and refreshments. All children must be accompanied by adults.

We also have an event for adults: Friday 31st August - A very crafty

evening! Create your own string board art. £12pp plus a complimentary drink and nibbles.

For further information on all events and payment details visit: 'Letters and Stitch 2' or call 07811069007

A Pandora bracelet was found near the Watermead lakes on the footpath between Birstall and Thurmaston on the evening of Tuesday 26th June 2018 I can imagine it would be of sentimental value to the person who dropped it.

If you think it is yours please contact me on my phone with a description of the bracelet and it will be returned to you.

Donal Heffernan MOB 07740803940 Ladies and Gentlemen Are you over 50?

Fancy a Singalong?

Singing for Fun 12.30- 2pm Every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at Mountsorrel Baptist Church, Leicester Road Bring lunch we will provide tea, coffee and soft drinks We aim to sins songs from every decade. 30s. 40s. 50s. 60s Doris Day. Dank Sinatra. Abba, Beatles, too many to mention Singing Therapy in Action!

Swithland Flower and Vegetable Show Saturday 8th September 2018

at the Griffin Inn & Swithland School Fun for all the family: Flower and Vegetable exhibits Arts and crafts exhibits Home produce exhibits Plant sales, tombola and auction The fun starts at 12.30pm, show opened by Jeff Harrison at 1.45pm All proceeds donated to Rainbows, Loros and other local charities

Movement To Music Age UK are extending their Movement to Music Sessions after a successful Pilot.

If you like Movement & Music, why not come and try this sociable Term Time activity for yourself? A fun, friendly way to keep mobile with no experience necessary. No need to book, just turn up and take part. Suitable for people of any ability and stay for a cuppa and a natter afterwards!

Where? Hanover Court, Windsor Road, Loughborough (Parking in Windsor Rd) When? Fortnightly re-starting Tuesday 11 September Time? 10.30-11.30am How Much? £3 per session to include refreshments For more information, please contact Age UK Charnwood Office on 01509 260327

Musical Memories Afternoon Age UK are teaming up with Fearon Hall to present a fun filled afternoon of singing and laughter with music from yesteryear. Open to all and sup-

port available for those living with mental health issues.

Where? Fearon Hall, Rectory Rd, Loughborough When? Tuesday August 21st Time? 2.30-4pm How Much? £5 to include Tea/Coffee & Cake.

For more information, please contact Age UK Charnwood Office on 01509 260327 St.Patricks Parish Centre Beaumont Leys Lane, Leicester

Collectors Fair and Table Tops sale Sunday 12 August, 9am-12.30 Collectors Items To Include postage Stamps from around the world, Ceramics, Vinyl Records, dolls/ posters Toys to include matchbox and dinky cars, Books/ good quality clothes/toys jewellery and plants also on sale Refreshments, cobs, cakes, teas and coffee will be available .

Bar open Tables( need not be for collectors items) can be booked at £10.00 each via Sharon Congrive on Stall Finders web site.

Birstall Tea Dances Birstall Village Hall Birstall Road, Birstall LE4 4DH Fridays 3rd & 17th August 2018 3.30 pm- 5.30pm £4 each on the door Tea / Coffee & Cake included

THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2018

10

Further information Jackie: 0116 2248 278 Mobile: 07908607405 Email: jackielucas957@hotmail.co.uk

The White Horse

Great Birstall Bake Off

Belgrave Cemetery

Heritage Open Day Sunday 9th September 10am-12noon Guided Walk 11am.

Cemetery Records and refreshments available.

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. www.friendofbelgravecemetery.org.uk

Cedar Care Circle meetings for August are 6th & 20th.

If you know anyone who is caring for a partner parent or friend who has Alzheimer's and Dementia please pass on our invitation to join us at the Lambourne Cafe. We meet fortnightly. 2pm at the Lambourne Cafe, Lambourne Road, Birstall. We just chat, share information and a listening ear. Help end the isolation that this dreadful disease brings with it. For more details contact Barbara 07905760556 East Goscote Community Library

Valuation Event Do you have items that you feel have some value in your home? Be they toys, jewellery, vases, pictures, etc, they may be of some value. If you have, then why not bring them along to East Goscote Village Hall on Saturday October the 13th.

Vanessa Savage, a professional auctioneer with Hansons Auctioneers of Etwall (as seen on TV), will be valuing items from 11am until all items have been seen. You can bring the items along on the day and there is no admission charge. There will be a charge of £2 for each item viewed, which go into the library funds.

Refreshments will be available.

For more details, ring 07948419664 or email at eglibrary@mail.com

St James’ Summer Fayre

THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2018

Monday 27 August from 12.30 3.30pm at St James' the Great Church, on the lawn and in the church, Church Hill, Birstall Stalls, Games, Tea and Cakes, Hot dogs, Entertainment, Craft Activities, Raffle and Bouncy Castle.

Proceeds to: Save the Children, and the Church We Look Forward To Seeing You

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Melba Way party

11

AN AFTERNOON tea party on Melba Way raised £410 for a breast cancer charity. in aid of Macmillan cancer support Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd September.

Once again we would urge the amazing bakers of Birstall to ‘don their pinnys’ and have some fun creating something for the competition. All entries are welcome, sweet or savoury from the young or less young!

The entries need to be at the White Horse for judging on Saturday 22nd between 9 &12noon.

A coffee morning celebrating the winners and providing entertainment as well as an abundance of baked treats will be held on the Sunday morning from 11am.

“Come along and taste the best cakes, savoury bakes and biscuits from the competition and help us raise more for Macmillan” said Beccy Kay founder of the event. We hope to see you there!

Application forms can be found on the White Horse website and further details on the Facebook page

Tea Party for Motor Neurone Come and join us at 107 Allington Drive on 2nd September 2.30pm onwards. It’s not just Tea in the afternoon, There’s more: stalls and quiz.

All monies to go to MND(Motor Neurone Disease)

Birstall & District Art Society Tuesday, 14th August, at 7pm You are invited to join us at the Palmer-Tomkinson Centre at Cedars Academy, Wanlip Lane, to watch renowned professional artist Stephen Coley giving an exciting demonstration of how to produce “Portraiture/Figures” using a mixture of collage and ink. Come along and see if you will be inspired to try your hand at this wonderful and fulfilling hobby. Refreshments available at the interval. Newcomers and visitors most welcome. Demonstration ends at 9pm. Members £1; Guests £3.

Free raffle. Ample parking and wheelchair access

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The event was organised by Diane Clafton and Joan Breward (pictured).

Diane said: “Thanks to all our friends and neighbours for their wonderful support.

“Huge thanks also go to Birstall Garden Centre, the Posy Bowl, Glenwood Interiors, Boots and Filigree Heart for the generous gifts they donated which made super raffle prizes.”

Summer concert 150 PEOPLE attended a summer concert at St Theresa’s Church which raised £600.

The concert was organised by choir master Chris Lowe. “As well as training the choir he put together an amazing orchestra” said spokeswoman Brenda Bentham.

“They raised the roof with songs from Footloose and Mary Poppins, the audience took part joining in with Jerusalem, and there was our famous whisky roll during the interval” she added.

Children from Bishop Ellis Catholic School Choir took part in the concert, which raised £600 that will be split between Rainbows, Intercare and the Retired Priests Fund.

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NHW news

& crime report FOR THOSE of you who haven't been away yet, now is a good time to think about the security of your property whilst you are away.

There are many obvious signs that you are away, even to people who are walking by. The most obvious that is regularly seen is leaving your curtains closed all day- If anyone walking by notices it, then an opportunist burglar will also notice.

Leaving your bin out early or late is also a sign that you are away. If you can, please ask a family member, friend or neighbour to put your bin out and bring it back in again. You can also buy cheap timer switches for turning a lamp on at

night, which makes it look like someone is in.

We have heard of people leaving a few pots at the side of the sink and leaving an open newspaper or magazine on a chair.

Both of these would look like you are at home.

One of the things that people often don't think about, is openly talking about a neighbour, friend or family member being away. It isn't difficult to overhear such conversations. It is also a good idea not to announce on Social Media that you are going on holiday or will be away from your property. If you are unlucky enough to be burgled, most insurance companies will not pay out.

It is a good idea to check your property on a regular basis, looking at it from the point of view of a burglar. Are there weak points, such as windows which don't shut properly? Are there large shrubs or hedging obscuring the view of your property?

Are there tools which are left out and is your shed or garage secure? These are just a few ideas of what to look out for, there are many more.

We sell several security items at cost price at our advice shops. The next one is Saturday 18th August, from 10 until midday.

We are located on the car park, opposite the garden centre.

From Birstall & Wanlip NHW

Crime update There has been a total of 41 crimes reported in June, which is about the same as in May when we had 42. Fuel thefts from the petrol station continue to be our biggest problem with another nine offences reported this month. Again, the majority of vehicles committing these offences are using stolen registration plates making the people responsible difficult to identify and prosecute.

We have had nine ‘other thefts’ reported (which have mainly been shop thefts) four house burglaries and five Public Order offences.

The number of thefts from vehicles has remained low again, with only two reports being received this month. This is obviously positive and we hope that this downward trend continues.

Aside from this there are no other significant crime trends to report.

For further crime information please visit: www.police.uk/leicestershir e/NL60/

windows are locked and don’t leave keys hanging in doors.

2) Fit light timers to lamps so that these come on at night & make the house look occupied.

3) If you have an alarm, remember to set it when you leave.

4) Remember to cancel milk and / or papers so these don’t build up and consider leaving a key with a neighbour or relative so they can clear the post every couple of days.

5) If possible, consider asking a friend or relative to take you to the airport rather than taking a taxi as it has been known for information to be passed on regarding who has gone away etc.

Neighbourhood update The Birstall Gala took place this month and it was good to see so many people out enjoying themselves. The nice weather made a big difference and aside from a few minor incidents the event passed off without any major problems being reported.

The beat team have also been conducting patrols around the Hallam Fields Industrial Estate and the Services in relation to previous complaints about noisy vehicles at the location. I’m pleased to report that the number of calls we have had about this issue have declined considerably in recent months however we will continue to patrol the area to act as a deterrent and hopefully prevent the vehicles from returning.

Meet your local police team Sibson Road Beat Office. Saturday 18th August (10am – 12pm).

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

NL60 – Birstall Police Office. http://www.leics.police.uk Tel: 0116 2677355 (Please note this is an advice line only – Please use 101 or 999 to report crime)

The Sept issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Aug 31 The copy deadline is Aug 17.

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Crime Prevention Advice As we move into the holiday season I’m sure many of you will be going away for a week or two.

Please remember that during this time of year we often see a rise in the number of house and shed break-ins as thieves will often look out for the signs that a house is empty.

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Birstall bowls TWO YOUNG bowlers from Birstall Ladies Bowling Club will represent the club and Leicestershire at the National Championships in Leamington Spa this month.

Sisters Noi and Deam Walker, who are just 21 and 16 respectively, qualified by reaching the final of the county under 25 singles competition. Both have been bowling for a number of years at the club, and have represented Leicestershire in the national ladies under 31 team competition at Leamington. Noi reached the quarter final of the national triples championship in 2014 having won the county final with mum Pa, and Jan Everitt.

Joining them will be Di Hurst who has qualified for the two wood championship for the first time, having played numerous times at Leamington in the other four major championships. She reached the county final with victory over Blaby’s Sharon Cobb.

Deam Walker, Di Hurst, Rosemary Groves and Jan Everitt just missed out in qualifying for the fours championship, losing in the county semi final to a Hinckley four. Di, Rosemary and Jan were semi finalists in the county triples, with another Birstall triple, Sue Smith, Angie Parkin and Pa Walker reaching the quarter final. In the county pairs, Angie and Pa reached the semi final before losing to Nicola Hughes and Jamie Lea Winch (Kingscroft), while Rosemary and Jan were beaten quarter finalists.

In the National competitions, Richard Smith was beaten in the Leicestershire final of the senior singles, and Jan Everitt reached both the Leicestershire final of the senior pairs and the East Midlands final of the mixed fours, all were just one win away from qualifying for the National Finals.

Elsewhere, Birstall just failed in their bid to retain the Leicester City & District Parks Bramley Bowl, losing 3-1 in this year’s final to South Wigston. Final team: Grahame White, Eric North, Grahame Fawcett, Gary Farmer, Tom Cowles, John Walker, Brian Hancock, Roger Bartlett, Barry Jarvis, Dave Smith.

The club will be holding an open day for anyone who would like to try out the game. This takes place at the club on School Lane Playing Fields on Sunday 12th August between 10.30am – 1.30pm and everyone is welcome. All equipment is provided but please bring a pair of trainers or flat shoes. The club play ladies, men’s and mixed friendly matches against other clubs in Leicestershire, as well as league matches and national, county, parks and internal club competitions. There is also a good social side with numerous events taking place throughout the year. For more information, please contact Steve on 07870 327568 or Diane on 0116 2676245.

For the latest news about the club, please visit the website www.birstallbowlingclub.co.uk Pic: Deam and Noi Walker

THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2018

12

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Monday group MEMBERS OF the St James Monday Group learned a lot about the construction and fitting of bras from speaker Brenda Lund at their last meeting.

MP’s visit to Cedars Academy LOCAL MP Edward Argar visited Year 7 and 8 pupils at The Cedars Academy in June to hear about their progress as part of The Scholars Programme – a prestigious national scheme which gives school pupils an opportunity to experience university-style learning.

The programme recruits, trains and places PhD researchers in non-selective state schools to deliver university-style tutorials based on their own research to small groups of pupils. The pupils Edward Argar met with today are studying a course entitled Biology - Disease Detectives with their tutor Megan De Ste Croix from University of Leicester.

As part of the programme, the pupils will also visit two highly-selective universities, where they receive information, advice and guidance about university life and making a successful university application.

The Scholars Programme is run by The Brilliant Club, an award-winning charity whose aim is increase the number of pupils from under-represented backgrounds progressing to highly-selective universities.

An independent evaluation by the Universi-

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ties and Colleges Application Services (UCAS) showed that nearly sixty percent of pupils who complete the programme go on to attend a highly-selective university. For pupils on the programme who were eligible for free school meals, 58% progressed to a highly-selective university, compared to a national rate of 11%. Edward Argar said: “It is always great to visit The Cedars Academy, which is doing such a great job for students in the area, and meet pupils taking part in The Scholars Programme. I was very impressed at how they engaged with such a complex and challenging academic topic, and their enthusiasm and talent was very clear. What is important is that they get the opportunity to fulfil that talent and The Scholars Programme partnering with schools like The Cedars Academy helps them do just that."

Steve Reynard Assistant Principal said: “I was delighted to meet with Edward Argar and show them the work pupils are doing in The Scholars Programme. I’m proud of the achievements of our pupils who are participating and am excited to see how their participation inspires their study and university choices.”

Dr Chris Wilson, CEO of The Brilliant Club said: “We’re really grateful to Edward Argar for taking time to come and see the great work that our PhD tutors and partner schools are doing, and the amazing things pupils are achieving.”

Pic: Edward Argar MP with pupils from The Cedars Academy, who are participating in The Scholars Programme.

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“Who knew so much engineering expertise went into making a bra?” said Leigh Reid, group spokeswoman.

The group’s August meeting will be an outing to Stamford on Friday 17.

Leigh said: “This is a market day, so if you like English markets this is for you!

Call Joan Folland on 0116 2672010 if you would like to book a place on the coach (the cost is £12). We will leave Birstall (School Lane) at 9am and return from Stamford at 4.30pm. Apart from the market Stamford is such a lovely town with so much to explore that I am sure it will be (as I have said before) a ‘Grand Day Out’.

Normal meetings take place on the second Monday of every month at 7.30pm in the Village Hall at the bottom of School Lane. Leigh said: “We are always open to visitors, and/or new members and have a very varied programme of talks, outings and occasional parties so there is something for everyone to enjoy. There is always tea and coffee and biscuits – absolute staple grub for any gathering!”

Flower club BIRSTALL FLOWER Club organised an evening outing to Westbrooke House garden, Little Bowden – a member of the British Garden scheme.

The property is late Victorian and the gardens comprise six acres in total.

They are approached through a tree lined driveway of mature limes and red cedars. Key features are a walled flower garden, a walled kitchen garden, a pond area, a spring garden, lawns, woodland paths and a meadow with a wild flower area, a ha-ha and hornbeam avenue. The new lower garden was added in May 2017.

Following the guided tour of the gardens we all enjoyed tea and cake in the courtyard café.

Our next club meeting is on August 22, 2018 is in the Village Hall at 7.15pm. The NAFAS demonstrator is Maria Bradley and her title is “Addicted to Strictly”. Why not come along and enjoy an evening of entertainment who knows, you may be luck and win a raffle prize.

From Birstall Flower Club

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THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2018

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Rotary supports charity FUNDRAISING Rotarians have helped disabled people enjoy boat trips.

Members of the Rotary Club of The Wreake Valley, through fundraising activities including their charity run, the Watermead Challenge, have sponsored a disability lift for the new canal boat – Sunbeam II which is run by Leicestershire Disability Charity, MOSAIC. The lift which cost £5,000, is an integral part of the boat giving wheelchair users access and trips out on the river Soar. The boat was officially launched by the High Sheriff of Leicester at the Hope & Anchor in Syston in June and will run day trips on the waterways from Thurmaston.

The Rotary Club of The Wreake Valley meet weekly on Wednesday evenings at the Britannia Inn, Queniborough. More information at www.wreakevalleyrotary.org.uk Pic: (l-r) Brian Calderwood, Karen Cane (both with Mosaic), Richard Bowler - Wreake Valley Rotary Club

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

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Planning P/18/1523/2: 35 Tempest Rd – the erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 8m, with a maximum height of 4m and height to the eaves of 3m P/18/1520/2: 12 Tempest Rd – replacement of existing double garage with double garage & workshop in roof space P/18/1458/2: The Coach House, School Lane – new entrance gates and replacement walling P/18/1348/2: 146 Birstall Rd – 2 storey side & rear extension, single storey side & rear extension, alteration to the main pitch roof, loft conversion with front & rear dormers, extension of the front main gate and internal alterations

Busy week at pre-school THERE WAS a lot of activity during the final week of the year at Birstall Methodist Preschool.

The children held their Sports’ Day which was enjoyed by their parents, and there was the ‘Graduation Ceremony’ for 13 of the children who were leaving to move to their primary school at the beginning of the autumn term.

There have also been changes in the management of the Preschool. A spokesperson said: “We said ‘goodbye’ to Laura Freer who has work for the Preschool since 2002. She became Joint Leader in 2017 and finally Leader in 2012. She is intending to train for a new career.

Taking her place are Reshma Thakrar and Michele Wilkinson who become Joint Managers from the beginning of the autumn term. Both are currently members of the staff team and it is hoped they will move the Preschool into the next stage of development.”

Standing down as Chair of the Management Committee is David Bark who has been Chair for 13 years. Taking his place is Church Council member Jane Corbett who has spent a long career in education. “ The mood within the Preschool now is all positive!” said the spokesperson.

There are still places available for the autumn term – Tel: 07717132564

Half Pints heroes Legion’s thank you THE CLASS of 2018 at Half Pints Childcare transformed into amazing superheroes during their graduation party performance.

A Half Pints spokesperson said: “We wish Beatrice, Grace, Mason, Naomi, Zachary and Daisy all the very best at ‘Big School’.”

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A BIRSTALL resident and a former vicar of Thurmaston has received a special Royal British Legion Award.

Revd T Robin Martin has been presented with a certificate of appreciation by the Legion’s Thurmaston branch in recognition of 50 since ordination, and with thanks for twenty years’ service as Branch Chaplain whilst Vicar of Thurmaston from 1985 to 2005.

The presentation was made at St James The Great Church, Birstall on Sunday 15 July 2018, where Father Robin was presiding at the Parish Communion, attended by representatives of the Legion’s Thurmaston and Birstall branches.

Chairman of the Legion’s Thurmaston Branch, Cllr Andy Dent, said: “This is a very special year for Father Robin, and we at the Legion wanted to recognise

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

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this and thank him again for all he did whilst our Branch Chaplain”.

All are welcome at a Eucharist at Leicester Cathedral, at which Father Robin will preside, in the presence of the Rt Rev’d Norman Banks, Bishop of Richborough, on Saturday 22 September 2018 at 6pm, as a thanksgiving for Fr Robin’s pastoral ministry, and to celebrate his 50th anniversary since Ordination as a Priest by the Bishop of Derby at Derby Cathedral on 22 September 1968.

Pic: (l-r) Mr Tony Bloxam, Churchwarden; Cllr Andy Dent, RBL Thurmaston Branch Chairman; Rev’d T. Robin Martin; Mr Darren Gartside, RBL Thurmaston Branch; Mrs Pat Davies, RBL Thurmaston Branch; Mr Gil Nall, RBL Birstall Branch President; and Mr Duncan Brown, RBL Birstall Branch Secretary.

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THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2018

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Unique exhibition LOCAL ARTISTS were given a unique challenge for an exhibition of paintings that was staged in June.

Members of Birstall and District Art Society used as their inspiration a 90 year old catalogue that listed 72 paintings exhibited in Birstall Village Hall on June 23, 1928.

They set themselves the challenge of painting their own versions of the titles and exhibiting them in the Village Hall exactly 90 years to the day since that original exhibition.

Society spokesman Bill Benbow said: “The challenge was accepted and members made a great effort, supplying a varied, sometimes comical, display of talent.”

There were sandwiches and cakes and music was provided by guitarist

Pics: (above) The Last Letter of Shakespeare by Sue Faulks; Study of Fish in Oils by Doreen Roper & The diet of Worms by Isabel Szymborska

Simon Faulks.

Attendees were invited to vote for their favourite and best interpretation – Doreen Roper’s ‘Study of Fish in Oils’ won best interpretation and Pauline Brindley’s ‘Sweet Memories’ was favourite picture.

THE BIRSTALL POST AUG 2018

News from the churches I can hardly believe we have passed the Who Did Own The Car? longest day of the year already and will On the back page of last months Birstall soon be saying "Isn't it getting dark early?"

Post was a picture of the BMW car that was as we do! parked alongside Birstall Methodist Church, As we have gone from cold to boiling so and had been there for about three weeks. very quickly (it seems) and will, no doubt, The Church was concerned as it meant one be plunged back into an autumn and winof the heavily used car parking spaces was ter chill just as quickly, the life of our ‘out of use’. Our Church Treasurer did pop churches continues, with Communion and notes through houses in the neighbourhood Healing services in St. James and Commun- seeking the owner to get the car moved. ion and Evensong in St. Nicholas. In WanAlthough the church still does not know lip, Old Nick's Coffee Shop goes from who owned the car, more importantly, we strength to strength in Wanlip Hall, next are delighted to report that it has now been door to the church, with fresh homemade moved off the church premises. cakes and scones and tea and coffee, on Premises Open Again After Annual the 3rd Tuesday of the month, from 10am Maintenance Week to 12 noon.

In previous years, each July, the buildThe Mother''s Union continue their ings that make up Birstall Methodist Church, regular meetings and the quest for helping have been closed entirely for the ‘Annual underprivileged children in Leicestershire Maintenance Fortnight’. This year, for severto have good food during the school holial reasons, the ‘Annual Maintenance’ was days. reduced to one week. Much of it this year The Men's Group still meet in the Royal was deep cleaning, and other minor jobs.

British Legion on Front Street, where disThe church is grateful to all who gave of cussions can be helped along with a 'pint their time to assist in these DIY and cleanof best'! Meetings are held on the 1st ing jobs.

Sunday of every other month, with speakThe Worship Area itself is now the ‘olders from varied backgrounds and interests. est’ part of the building, it was built in the The last meeting was on 8th July, at 1950’s. Since its construction, there have 7.45pm with an insightful talk from a local been many updates & improvements, espedesign teacher. If you would like to join cially double glazing, carpets, new main in with these evenings, find out more by lighting, and many other items. However, calling Bert Tegg on 0116 2673817, and the lighting in the aisles either side of the he will be pleased to help you. church still has the original fittings. ReplaceOur Monday Group is looking forward ment bulbs and other fittings are now diffito a trip to Stamford on Friday August 17. cult to source. These are all to be replaced There are still places available on the with modern LED lights. coach, so if you would like a day out, Birstall Food Bank please call Joan Folland on 0116 2672010 This new project uses the Methodist to book a place.

Church premises on a Tuesday morning. It Being the height of summer, there are a is well supported by volunteers who are good number of weddings booked for St. keen to give help to those who need a food James and for St. Nicholas; beautiful parcel. Interestingly at present there are churches for beautiful occasions - also more helpers than clients (but many of the baptisms for beautiful babies! volunteers are only on duty once a month).

The Confirmation/Baptism course starts You can just turn up on a Tuesday morning on September 13 at the Rectory, Birstall 10am to 11.30, or (preferably) phone or Road, held by our Rector. If you would text first to tell us you need help. Tel like more information, please call the Rec07305093791 tor, Rev. Vince Jupp, on 0116 2674517.

Welcome Service At Oadby I met two lovely dogs at Church yesterOn Friday August 24 at 7.30 the Circuit day, both glad of the water bowl! Their will welcome two new ministers, Revd equally lovely humans told me that the Derek McLean who will have pastoral overchurch bowl was the only place the dogs sight of Oadby and Great Glen, and a Probawould drink when they were out - holy tioner Revd Daniel Yovan who will be based water? at Syston.

From Birstall Parish Churches

From Birstall Methodist Church

Sunday Services These will be held on August 5 & 12 in Room PT1, The Palmer Tomkinson Centre, The Cedars Academy, Wanlip Lane, Birstall (LE4 4GH), beginning at 10.45am. Please contact for arrangements on the remaining two Sundays in the month. As usual, there is a Sunday School available for children during the second half of the service. We extend a sincere invitation to you to join with us for worship.

August Bible School Over the Bank Holiday weekend, the annual Holiday Bible School will be held at Stanton Lees Chapel near Matlock in Derbyshire. You can be assured of a warm welcome. This is always a time of good fellowship and ministry, with the famous

Mass of Confirmation We were pleased to welcome Bishop Patrick McKinney to St Theresa’s on July 6th to celebrate a Mass of Confirmation.

Ten young people from our parishes of Sacred Heart and St. Theresa’s (pictured above) were presented for the Sacrament, having undertaken a preparation course led by our Catechist, Bernadette MulliganCant. It was a joyous occasion for the candidates and their families and friends who were there to support them on this important day.

Summer Fair The Summer Fair was held this year at Sacred Heart, Rothley. As well as the familiar range of stalls, tombola and raffle, there was a puppet show for the children and a barbecue for the peckish! Thanks to all who worked so hard to put on this annual event.

Anniversary In 1988, the congregation of St There-

teas on the Saturday and Monday afternoons. The speakers this year are Pastor Clifford Morrison (Northern Ireland) at 3pm and 7pm on Saturday 25th and at 2.30pm and 6.30pm on Sunday 26th; Rev. Vincent Tracey (Blackpool) at 3pm and 7pm on Monday 27th and Professor Derek Linkens (Sheffield) will give the Historical Lecture at 10.30am also on the Monday.

The chapel’s postcode is DE4 2LQ and the website address is: http://www.stantonleeschapel.org.uk. All meetings are free of charge but donations can be made to help defray expenses.

Enquiries about BIBC: please ring 0116 221 4883.

From Birstall Independent Baptist Church

sa’s said goodbye to their rather modest church building on Wanlip Lane ( which had been home since 1941) and moved to a brand new church on Front St. The focus of our 30th anniversary celebrations will be held in conjunction with the Feast of St. Theresa, September 30th. A display is being planned and the Parish Committee is asking if anyone has any pictures of weddings, christenings, outings, fetes, articles, reminiscences or other memorabilia to help us make a very grand and interesting display or even pictures of the area before the Church was built. A warm welcome to our celebrations will be extended to the wider Birstall community. Further details will be forthcoming and will be on the parish website (www.st-theresa-sacredheart.co.uk).

Items for inclusion can be sent to the parish office, but please include your name and address to ensure their safe return afterwards.

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

Birstall BAG’s cancer corner Be Clear on Cancer - Blood in Pee The NHS has recently launched its latest Be Clear on Cancer Campaign which focuses on bladder and kidney cancer. Birstall BAGs wanted to highlight the campaign through our excellent local paper!

If you notice blood in your pee, even if it's just the once, tell your doctor.

Around 17,450 people in England are diagnosed with bladder or kidney cancer every year and around 7,600 people die annually.

Blood in pee is a symptom in over half of bladder cancers and almost a fifth of kidney cancers, so being aware of this is crucial.

as only 10% for kidney cancer and 9% for bladder cancer.

The campaign is aimed at men and women aged 50 and over, as between 90 to 97% of bladder and kidney cancer diagnoses are in people in this age group. It encourages anyone who notices blood in their pee, even if it’s ‘just the once’, to visit their GP to get it checked out.

Blood in your pee is a key symptom for both types of cancer, but there are other symptoms.

Early Diagnosis Early diagnosis of bladder and kidney cancer increases the chances of survival.

For those diagnosed at the earliest stage (stage 1), the likelihood of surviving 5 years or more can be as high as 84% for kidney cancer and 77% for bladder cancer. However for those diagnosed at a late stage (stage 4), survival is as low

Kidney cancer: • a pain that doesn’t go away, either in the tummy or in the side below the ribs • weight loss If you have any of these symptoms, see your GP as soon as possible. If you know anyone who has any of these symptoms, insist they see their doctor.

CHURCH DIARY

Bladder cancer: • cystitis (a urinary tract infection) that is difficult to treat or comes back quickly after treatment • pain while peeing

So Birstall I guess the key message is LOOK BEFORE YOU FLUSH as EARLY DIAGNOSIS REALLY CAN SAVE LIVES! For more information please visit:https://www.nhs.uk/be-clear-oncancer/symptoms/blood-inpee#9zsZJlRmFu6zhmZv.97 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

THE BIRSTALL POST YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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

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

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Have a go days at station WOMEN WHO would like to get some hands on experience of what it’s like to be a firelighter are being invited to attend a free have-a-go workshop at Birstall Fire Station.

Ahead of Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service’s upcoming recruitment process for Wholetime Firefighters, they are putting on events to allow those interested in becoming a Wholetime Firefighter a chance to find out more about the role.

“This includes fitness level requirements and what the job entails, the opportunity to speak with current firefighters and one of their recruitment champions about any further questions you may have” said a spokesperson for the Fire Service.

At these events, attendees can get hands-on experience of the job-related tests involved in the recruitment process.

The spokesperson said: “There will be Have A Go events that will be open to anybody but the first two events are targeted at women. This is due to research demonstrating the physical differences in men and women, which sometimes means women need more time to improve their fitness to meet the standards required by all firefighters.”

The first two events will be held: Saturday 11 August – Birstall Fire Station Sunday 12 August – Birstall Fire Station You must book a session time if you wish to attend either of the above events. This can be done via the website: www.leicestershire-fire.gov.uk/careers-withus/recruitment/wholetime/

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