Birstall Post (428) March 2019

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

MARCH 2019

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 428

HALF PINTS Childcare on Loughborough Road has been rated as ‘outstanding' by Ofsted.

Continued on page 2

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Man’s threats to family Shahib Asan (23) of Saltersgate Drive sent threatening and abusive texts to his victims between August 15 and 16, 2018, and was found guilty of harassment at Leicester Crown Court.

He was also sentenced for offences he admitted at a previous hearing.

These were criminal damage, two counts of intent to pervert the course of justice and harassment with threats of violence, which he admitted at a hearing in August 2018.

He also pleaded guilty to possessing a weapon for the discharge of a noxious liquid at a previous hearing.

Asan was found to have taken his force-issued Captor spray off force property and was dismissed from Leicestershire Police in relation to this offence in November 2017.

Asan was given a 12 month suspended sentence suspended for two years and ordered to undertake 180 hours unpaid work. He was also given an indefinite restraining order.

Judge Ebraham Mooncey said he was prepared to suspend the prison sentence because Asan had already spent six months on remand in custody.

The court heard how Asan, as a form of harassment, sent threatening letters and text messages to the victims over a period of months, on one occasion threatening to burn down their house. He also threatened to stab the victims, and in one text message, threatened to shoot one of them.

He also damaged a car belonging to a victim as it was parked in a street in East Goscote, by throwing what was believed to be paint stripper over it.

Throughout the investigation, Asan made an allegation that his email account had been hacked. The mes-

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A FORMER Special Constable from Birstall has been given a suspended prison sentence after he harassed a family, threatening to stab them and burn down their house.

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Pic: staff and children at Half Pints celebrating their Ofsted rating

The inspection found that: “the knowledgeable and experienced childminder offers children an excellent early years experience where they thoroughly enjoy learning and make outstanding progress.

“The childminder follows robust procedures to help her to recruit and retain assistants that are of a very high calibre.

“Children are extremely happy, content and are comfortable and familiar within their surroundings. Children are exceptionally well prepared for their future learning, including starting school.

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“Children enjoy a wide range of inspirational experiences within the local community to promote their understanding of the world beyond the childminder’s home.”

A spokesman for Half Pints said: “We are absolutely delighted that Ofsted recognise how committed we are in ensuring all children in our care receive the best start in life and ‘promote every aspect of their learning’. Thank you to all our families and the local Birstall community for their support over the last 17 years.”

Broadnook Garden suburb a new community ROTHLEY

WORK ON the 1950 home Broadnook Garden Suburb north of Birstall could start this year.

The development will see the creation of a new community located between Birstall (it has 5700 homes) and Rothley (2000 homes).

The site has already been identified as suitable for housing development by Charnwood Borough Council and a planning application for phase one of the project has been submitted to Charnwood.

Phase one runs from 2019 to 2024.

It will include: • 650 new dwellings. 25% will be affordable homes • 175 unit assisted living retirement accommodation (a 70 bed care home is planned for phase 2) • starting work on an enterprise area for small and medium sized businesses Phase one also includes the Broadnook Centre. This will include: • a 630 capacity primary school • a community hall • a high street with shops including a supermarket

A46 WANLIP A6

Continued from page 1 sages were sent, all with the same tone, to make it appear he was being framed by ‘the real suspect’.

Officer in the Case, Anna Thorpe, from the force’s Complex Investigation Team, said: “Asan terrorised his victims over a number of months, leaving them feeling vulnerable and at risk of harm.

He targeted an entire family, sending abusive messages to a number of them and addressing the threatening letters to everyone in the family.

“They have been through two years of living in fear of Asan, not knowing when the next letter or message would come.”

PARK & RIDE

HALLAM FIELDS Pic: maps shows development area

• a central walk with a Maypole garden • Foxfield Park with a sports pavilion, play area, sports pitches, parkland, allotments and play facilities.

The community hall will provide a space for indoor sports, a meeting room, café, shop, multi-faith chapel, library, art gallery, offices for the Broadnook Trust and the new parish council, a police office, residential apartments and health care facilities including a pharmacy and dentist.

Access to the site will be from a new roundabout on the A6, 500 metres north of the A6/A46 roundabout.

In 2018 the number of houses proposed for the site has increased from 1650 to 1950 and a new traffic impact assessment was carried out.

This report states that traffic volumes would increase by 12%. The development will generate 1792 and 1493 traffic movements to and from an external location in the morning and evening peak hours.

To mitigate the traffic increase measures will be introduced to increase the capacity of the A6 and of the nearby junctions, although the report states that no significant improvement to the A6/Greengate Lane junction is possible.

The development will contain a small site of four plots for travelling show people. This will be located close to the A6/A46 roundabout, near the existing Hill Top Cottage.

Birstall Parish Council and Rothley Parish Council have previously raised

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

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concerns about the plans, particularly the impact on traffic and on local services and facilities. Rothley Parish Council is pressing for community facilities to be built early within the development and that green space between Rothley and Broadnook be protected for a minimum of 50 years.

Rothley Parish Council have also asked for a package of £750,000 of section 106 developer contributions for Rothley, including improvements to Rothley Village Hall, street lighting, the library, a new park and skateboard track and refurbishing the Rothley Centre.

Birstall Parish Council’s planning committee met on February 25 (after this issue had gone to press) to consider its response to the plans. Council chair Ann Marshall said: “Traffic is a huge concern, in terms of congestion and pollution. Someone has got to look at ways of directing traffic off the A6. I also have concerns about the access to the development.

“Although things like medical facilities and care homes are in the plans, they are just aspirations, they can’t guarantee they’ll be provided and if they aren’t it Pics: (bottom, left) phase 1 of the plans; (top) view of Broadnook Centre which is in phase 1; (bottom) a typical house style

just increases the pressure on Birstall’s facilities.”

Chairman of Rothley Parish Council Percy Hartshorn said: “We don’t want

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this development but we can’t stop it.

Highways matters are the biggest problem. Community facilities must be provided in phase one of Broadnook because if they aren’t it will put extra pressure on facilities in Birstall and Rothley.”

The planning application can be viewed on the Charnwood website, ref P/16/1660/2

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Parish Council notes

Quilters’ cash for Rainbows FUNDRAISING BY members of Birstall Quilters has raised £1100 for Rainbows.

Jess Dixon, Community Fundraiser from Rainbows, the hospice for children and young people, visited the group to

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receive a cheque.

She said: “We couldn’t do what we do without the support of the community and we are really grateful for this help which will enable us support children and their families.”

Birstall Quilters meet every Wednesday at 2.15pm at Birstall Methodist Church.

Pic: Jess Dixon from Rainbows (left) receives a cheque from Kathy Parker, Chair of Birstall Quilters.

Police operation: six arrests made SIX PEOPLE have been arrested as part of an operation to capture those who are evading police and wanted for offences.

The latest phase of Operation Cabriolet saw officers visit a number of addresses in the city centre, Birstall and Oadby areas on Wednesday January 30.

The operation, which has so far seen almost 100 arrests, was carried out to target people who were suspected of being involved in crime, wanted on warrant or needed to be recalled to prison after breaching the terms of their license.

Of the six people arrested, four have been charged, they are: Ashley Challis, 29, of Leicester Road, Lutterworth, has been charged with robbery and criminal damage, and will appear at Leicester Magistrates’ Court on 21 March. The charge relates to an incident in Lutterworth on 24 December last year.

Benjamin Tattershall, 27, of Bosworth Street, Leicester, has been charged with three counts of theft from stores. He was remanded in custody to appear at Leicester Magistrates’ Court today (31 January).

Ciara Padfield, 18, of Davenport Avenue, Oadby, Leicester, has been charged with criminal damage. She was also wanted on warrant for failure to appear at court following an incident in June 2018. She was remanded in custody to appear at Leicester Magistrates’ Court today.

Craig Parkinson, 45, of Acacia Avenue, Birstall, has been charged with two counts of breaching court bail and was remanded to appear at Leicester Magistrates’ Court.

A 44-year-old man arrested on suspicion of theft was released with no fur-

ther action.

A 38-year-old man will face no further action after he was arrested in relation to breach of a non-molestation order.

Detective Chief Inspector Shaun Orton, who was in charge of the enforcement operation, said: “This latest phase of Operation Cabriolet has been a success with officers making six arrests.

“The offences they were arrested for may not be classed as the most serious but we know that low-level crime is just as concerning for our local communities.

“The force will continue to do all it can to bring those who commit offences in the community to justice and we will continue to carry such operations in the future across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

“If anyone has information about crime in their area they are encouraged to contact 101.”

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Three new councillors were coopted to fill vacancies on the council: Kirsty Haywood, Simon Oates and Keith Hampton.

In public participation, it was reported that motorists parked near the junction of Elmfield Avenue and Fielding Road were sometimes rolling backwards as they pulled away, unaware that children are standing in the spaces between parked cars as they wait to cross the road. A comment was made that double yellow lines should be in place near the school.

A collision with a vehicle has left sharp edges on the barrier outside Riverside school. It was agreed to write to the county council about the barrier and the concerns about parking near Highcliffe school.

PCSO Mark Butler reported that there was still a lot of thefts from motor vehicles. He emphasised the importance of checking your car is locked before leaving it, and if you have a keyless entry car, keep the fob in a tin inside your home to prevent thieves capturing its signal.

PCSO Butler said PCSO Mo Musah had been transferred to Sileby.

It was reported that the St James Day Centre boiler had been replaced at a cost of £1995.

It was reported that the council’s reserves were £143,691.

It was agreed to spend £597 annually on email accounts for each councillor, to meet General Data Protection Regulation requirements.

It was agreed to spend £636 on a resin bench for the Sibson Road car park that will have an inscription marking the centenary of the armistice.

It was agreed that the old parish council office building at 10 Sibson Road be named the Robert Dickinson Centre, in memory of the former parish councillor.

The council agreed the content of its reviewed policies and procedures and agreed to publish them all on the council website.

It was reported that work on the Hallam Fields community hall was on schedule. Work should start on March 4.

It was reported that the planned Allington Drive memorial garden was being delayed due to a complaint by one person. It will be in memory of Janet Jasper, who lost her life following the gas explosion in 2017.

The April issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Mar 30.

The copy deadline is Mar 15.

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

A FULL meting of Birstall Parish Council was held on February 11.

New science building at Cedars Academy THE CEDARS Academy have announced plans to build a new two story science block and to extend the existing sports hall.

One of the school’s main buildings is considered obsolete and will be demolished. Once removed that part of the site will be soft landscaped.

Science will be relocated into the new building, located next to the old youth centre. Music, food, technology, IT and catering will be relocated to the current-

ly under utilised Stonehill building.

The sports hall will be extended to provide a new entrance and changing facilities. It will be provided with a new roof.

The new build elements will be completed before any demolition takes place.

Areas within the Stonehill building will be refurbished. These include: • IT classrooms • Music and music practice rooms • Food technology • Kitchen

Pics: (top) the new science block; (left) the building in the foreground will be demolished; (right) the sports hall, arrow shows location of new extension

The Cedars Academy is an 11 to 18 school with 968 pupils on the school roll.

The planning application can be viewed on Charnwood‘s website, ref P/19/0245/2

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Artwork sent to club

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

A TURNER prize winner’s artwork was given a kick-a-bout when it was sent to a Birstall football club.

Birstall United Juniors received the ‘One World’ football from the Football Foundation – it features a photo of the Earth imprinted on a football and was created by artist Mark Wallinger.

Wallinger was commissioned by Liverpool Biennial and 14-18 NOW, the UK arts programme marking the first world war centenary .

He was inspired by the Christmas truce events of 1914 when, possibly, British and German solders came out of the trenches, exchanged gifts and played a game of football.

The artist has used a football as his canvas, digitally printing on it a NASA satellite photograph of the world, inspired by the celebrated image of the Earth taken during the Apollo 8 lunar orbit on December 24, 1968.

Mark Wallinger said: “It

is 100 years since the armistice was agreed in 1918, and 50 years since the Earthrise photograph was taken on Christmas Eve, 1968. ‘One World’ is my contribution to the legacy of those precious moments – spreading a message of peace for the world. Time to stop fighting and start playing.”

Birstall United Juniors was chosen to receive one of the footballs where it was used in a training session before being framed in the clubhouse, in memory of Leicester City’s Khun Vichai.

“After what he did for our city, we thought that was in the ‘One World’ spirit” said club spokesman John Sutton.

Pics: a training session with the ball & (below) artist Mark Wallinger

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Saturday soccer school for boys and girls

A FUN football session for children aged 4 to 6 is proving popular at Birstall United Juniors Football Club.

Their weekly ‘Soccer School’, held every Saturday from 11-12noon at the Meadow Lane ground, places the emphasis on fun and exercise in a positive environment.

Led by FA qualified coaches, the sessions provide a first taste of football for many who then ‘graduate’ from Soccer School at the age of six and may go on to play in the club’s teams for many years. “Lots of U16, 17s and 18s have been with us since Soccer School” said club secretary Steve Carr. “There’s never been a better time to join us: parents can have a cup of tea and a bacon bap in our brand new clubhouse while the kids play.”

He added: “I love seeing the smile on the kids’ faces, watch them having fun

Pics: children training at the Saturday morning Soccer School

and putting into practice the skills they are learning.”

Parent Matt Holland brings his son Harry (5).

“He loves it, he really has a lot of fun” he said.

For more information come down to a session or ‘Like’ the club’s facebook page.

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THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

ALAN CHAMBERS

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

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The Birstall Post welcomes your views and opinions on any subject. Letters, which must include your name and address, (though not necessarily for publication) can be posted to: The Birstall Post, Unit 109, Greenacres, The Sidings, Leicester LE4 3BR, or handed in at Birstall library or email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk

Litter The good people of Birstall ...week in week out I see them, usually first thing in the morning filling their sacks with litter that's been selfishly dropped around Meadow Lane and into the Watermead area. These special people cost nothing and I'm sure all will agree they deserve a lot of praise ....a group of people organized by Julian the councillor do a yearly litter pick around Meadow Lane area, well I'm pleased to say two of these good people have offered to join Julian’s group of volunteers this year.

Name and address supplied

Resignation Following the February Parish Council meeting I have taken the decision to step down from Birstall Parish Council. Unfortunately there are a number of council members with the attitude “If it’s not broken don’t fix it” and “We’ve done it this way for 30 years and we’ve always done ok”. Both things said in recent meetings. This type of thinking is opposite to my thoughts which are that very few things in life are perfect, and most things could benefit from looking for ways to learn and improve.

I do not find the meetings encourage new ideas from councillors, and sometimes councillors are chastised for bringing an idea up in the wrong section of a meeting. I understand that the meetings require structure but at times this stamp of authority suppresses new thoughts and ideas which could have a positive impact on the community.

I would like to see more time spent on ideas and projects that benefit residents in Birstall, rather than time spent on internal issues that have no positive impact on our community.

I always try to maintain a positive and enthusiastic approach but having endured another particularly uncomfortable meeting I feel my time is better used helping the community in other ways.

I will continue to represent Birstall as your Borough Councillor and plan to continue the work we are doing as part of Shop Local Birstall.

Shona Rattray

It is a matter of regret that Shona Rattray has chosen to use negative extracts from her letter of resignation to denigrate Birstall Parish Councillors.

Below is a full transcript of the Chairs acknowledgement and acceptance letter of Shona Rattray’s resignation: “Dear Shona I acknowledge receipt of your resignation from Birstall Parish Council, received by email on 12 February 2019.

I am sure that you, as all other Councillors, joined the Parish Council with the aspiration of getting involved and helping the local community. I hope you will continue with this in your role as a Borough Councillor.

As you acknowledge, Parish Council meetings do have to be structured, however, any Councillor can put forward an item through the Clerk, which will then be considered for inclusion on the Agenda.

Birstall Parish Council promotes community cohesion by staging three events each year for the community to enjoy.

The Council always has ongoing projects to improve its assets and the parish experience for all residents. A full report of Council activity is promoted and distributed to every household annually.

I totally concur with your remark that Councillors time should be used for the benefit of residents, unfortunately, internal issues do arise and have to be addressed, as part of the role of a Parish Councillor.

Thank you for the service you have given to Birstall Parish Council over the last two years, I hope you have success in your role as a Borough Councillor.

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 Good luck with persuading Charnwood Borough Council to repair and maintain the bus shelters that they own in Birstall.

Yours Sincerely Cllr Ann Marshall – Chair of Birstall Parish Council” Parish Councillors are residents who give up their time without renumeration to serve the Parishioners of Birstall.

This is unlike Borough and County Councillors who are politically aligned and paid an allowance with expenses.

Sue Coulson Clerk to the Council.

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

YOUR SAY...

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10 Sibson Road, Old Council Office Talk to your District & County Councillors to discuss any issue of local concern

Cheeky Cherubs Parent & Toddler Group 0-4 year olds Birstall Methodist Church Rooms 9.30-11.30am Open every Monday term time Separate baby section No weekly commitment £2 for adult & 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 07934 551 563 Hope to see you there Mountsorrel Methodist Church Centre Celebrating 18 years of Sunday Night at Eight

Organ Recitals Sunday March 17, 8pm Edward Byrne & Dominic Remedios Organ scholars, Loughborough Endowed Schools Sunday April 14, 8pm Angela Sones Director of Music, All Saints Church, Lichfield Admission free Donations for the church development fund Buffet from 7.30pm

Songs & Tales

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

An unforgettable evening with the international singer and raconteur Jonathan Veira Sat Mar 9, 7.15pm Tickets £12 Rothley Church of England Primary School, Burrow Drive, Rothley Tickets from Trevor West 07831 537115 www.rothleychurch.org.uk email twest951@aol.com Presented by Rothley Men’s Church Group Proceeds to Soar Valley Community Food project and local charities

Fashion Show Thursday 21st March, 7pm Syston Methodist Church Tickets £5.

Tel: 0116 260 5520 • Barrow Panto Group will be performing

Peter Pan on Fri March 8 starting at 7pm and Sat March 9 2pm and 7pm in Humphrey Perkins Community Centre, Cotes Road, Barrow upon Soar, LE12 8JU. This is a magical and very funny pantomime version of the novel by J.M. Barrie. It is largely faithful to the original story with the addition of a dame, Nana, the new nursemaid who has replaced a dog, leading to lots of ‘doggy’ jokes. Captain Hook is the best kind of panto baddie and his pirate sidekicks are suitably stupid.

The pirate comedy duo Line and Sinker are chased relentlessly by the Indian squaws Shy-Ann and Sioux. There are lots of opportunities for slapstick including a traditional ‘He’s behind you’ scene, a mop drill on board ship and a scene with a large inflatable fish.

Tickets cost is very reasonable: Standard £8; Concessions of every sort £6; Family (2+2) £24. You can buy them by PayPal or card from www.busca.org.uk, or from the Flower Shop, High St, or Barrow Library or from members of the cast. Enquiries and Box Office: 07718 153117 Do join us – it will be a hilarious and colourful show

Rothley/Birstall Birdwatching Club Presents: Tuesday, March 12th, 2019 at 7.30pm The Joy Of The Song Of Birds

by Nigel Slater and Sandy Aitken Nigel always gives us an interesting evening, full of enthusiasm for his subject. This time he claims that his friend Sandy is an even more experienced wild life enthusiast than he is and also has a superb knowledge of birdsong, so we should be in for real treat and get some useful tips on that often difficult to recognize birdsong.

The Rothley Centre, 12 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley, LE7 7PR. Members are free. Visitors £2.50.

Ample free car parking on site

Birstall Flower Club Birstall Village Hall March 27th 2019, 7.15pm Demonstrator : Shirley Henderson Title : A touch of Gold Visitors welcome - £5 Queries to Sylvia: 0116 2674206 or Mary : 07704398017

Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust Regular indoor meetings are held in Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall on the second Wednesday every month from September to May starting at 7.30pm. Admission is £2.50 for LRWT members, £3 for visitors, children free, including refreshments.

Wednesday March 13th 2019 at 7.30pm AGM followed by Charnwood Lodge - Leicestershire’s last wilderness?

A talk by Neil Pilcher, Senior Conservation Officer, LRWT Neil’s talk will cover the snippets of history discovered about the reserve; management work on the reserve and why it is undertaken and the wildlife recorded there

Birstall Methodist Monday Women’s Group Programme for March 2019 meetings held at 7.30pm every Monday in the Coffee Shop Please note that Visitors will be welcome at any of our meetings 4 March Amongst Ourselves 11 March Pete and Kelvyn - Picture Show 18 March Speakers Elsa and Neil from Co op Funerals 25 March Jerry ‘Take Heart’- Cake Stall instead of Thrift £2 entry fee which includes tea and biscuits (and sometimes chocolate!)

Contact Eileen (2929670) for further details

Birstall & District Art Society Tuesday, 12th March, at 7pm You are invited to join us at the Palmer-Tomkinson Centre at Cedars Academy to watch an exciting demonstration of painting ‘Exotic Birds’ using acrylics by wellknown professional artist Tom Shepherd. Do join us to discover whether you will be inspired to take up this wonderful hobby. Refreshments available at the interval. Demonstration ends at 9.00 p.m. Members £2; Guests £4.

Free raffle. Ample parking and wheelchair access

Birstall & District Local History Society Our next monthly meeting takes place on Thursday 14th March 2019 commencing at 7.30pm in the Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall, Leics.

The talk for the evening will be given by Felicity Austin on the subject of "Every Home Should Have One" about the development of household appliances and gadgets in the 20th century.

Visitors are very welcome to join us for this talk.

There will be parking available on the night on the Birstall Playing Fields through the School Lane entrance Charnwood Orchestra

Concert 23 March 2019 Emmanuel Church Forest Road

Loughborough LE11 3NW Conductor Nic Fallowfield We shall be performing works by: Dukas - La Perie Fanfare Berlioz Overture Le Corsaire Faure suite Masques et Bergamasque Chausson Poeme - Violin Soloist Beth Allmand Sibelius Symphony No 7 Tickets availablewww.charnwoodorchestra .org.uk & on the door

What is Dementia?

Age Uk Leicestershire & Rutland and Cedar Mews Care Home at Hallam Fields in Birstall are holding another in their series of FREE Family Carer Workshops on Thursday 14 March between 2pm – 4pm.

Come and join us at our Dementia Friends Session and gain a clearer understanding of dementia, what it’s like to live with memory loss and how you can help your loved one.

Q&A and Networking opportunities at the end of the session, along

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To book – please contact Jeanette Silver at Age Uk on 01509 260327 or Cedar Mews Care Home on 0116 267 4835

Disco for people with learning disabilities

With DJ Dolly and Chris Every Monday except bank holidays and during big performances Mountsorrel Memorial Centre 12-30pm – 2:30pm Adults 4pm – 5pm Under 16’s £2 per service user to cover costs, carers free Once a month in association with Safe Well and Happy for extra activities Peppercorns Cafe open for refreshments

Do You Eat Crisps?

Would Like To Help A Local Self Funded Charity?

ADAPT Prembabies is a Leicester charity that supports families who have a baby on Leicesters neo na-

tal units needing life saving intensive care treatment. We have to raise all our own money and this is one way you could help us.

We receive a small donation for every crisp packet no matter what brand, these are then turned into plastic pellets which are used to make items like garden furniture.

If you can help ADAPT, please contact Lindsay on 07847 264 382 or email: lindsay@prembabies.co.uk.

In March's British drama, Dame Emma Thompson plays a high court family judge who can make life or death decisions. Having visited a very sick teenager in hospital, she must deliver a ruling as to whether he should be given a blood transfusion against his parents' wishes. The judge's workload is high but does this affect her marital private life?

Husband is being awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature. However, as the film progresses, many dark secrets are unearthed !

“King of Thieves” will be shown on May 10th.

Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall, starting at 7.30pm. Film tickets will cost the usual £5 which will includes refreshments and a lucky prize draw during the interval.

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

Birstall Royal British Legion Club

Film Presentations Thurcaston and Cropston Parish "The Children Act" March 8, 105 mins

"The Wife" April 12, 100 mins Our April drama has many nominations this year for Academy Awards. The captivating Glenn Close plays Joan, the apparently perfect wife of a famous American novelist. In Stockholm, Joan’s

2nd Amanda Jayne 9th Colin Stevens 16th Kris Carrick 23rd Damian Baltazar 30th Karl Bird 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 10th and 31st March at 9pm Acoustic night 17th March Food available Saturdays 12 till 2pm Kitchen closed 2nd and 16th but

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

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cobs available Wakes catered for Free WIFI New members very welcome easy to join ask inside Highcliffe Amateur Theatrical Society Spring Play Come along and see the

“Vicar of Dribley” a tribute to the Iconic BBC comedy, by Ray Evans.

As you can see, this is a tribute to the “Vicar of Dibley”. For all of you that are familiar, (or not) with this wonderfully, funny comedy, please come along and have a fabulous night.

Dates: May 16th, 17th and 18th at 7.15pm. Doors will be opened half an hour before each performance. Please note this production contains some adult humour.

Venue: Birstall Social Club, Wanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4JS. Tickets: £7.00, £6.00 concession.

Box office: 0116 2209594 or email hatstickets@hotmail.com www.facebook.com/hatsamdram The Bark Foundation Saturday 16th March Birstall Methodist Church Lounge 10-12noon

Jewellery Stall

Birstall Running Club C25K 2019 Where: Pavilion, School Lane, Birstall, LE4 Monday 8th April, 6pm Prompt Cost: £16 We are delighted to announce that we will be holding a "Couch to 5K" programme this April! This programme is designed for beginners aged 18 and over who really want to get out there, develop their skills, get fit both physically and mentally and meet new people.

This will be a 9 week programme, on a first come first served basis, that will take you from the Couch to running 5K, finishing with your graduation Park Run in Braunstone Park.

So if this is for you, please get in touch with Met Snutch (dave.snutch@ntlworld.com) or come down and see us.

See you in April...

RNLI Coffee Morning

Everything £1 – Come And ‘Bag A Bargain’!

Cedar Care Circle Support group for anyone affected

by Alzheimer's and Dementia.

Our next meetings will be Monday March 11th and Monday March 25th. We meet at Ruth's Lambourne Cafe. Lambourne Road, Birstall at 2pm. Join our friendly

11

group we discuss problems, suggest answers, on how we deal with different issues that arise.

Most of all we enjoy being with others who understand and have a laugh. Contact Barbara on 07905760556 for more info

Sat Apr 27, 10am - noon Methodist Coffee Shop, Birstall Bring & Buy stall, Quiz Please come along and support the Lifeboats

Bowlers’ winter trip to Potters AT THE end of January members of St Margaret's Co-operative Bowls Club took a trip to Potters Bowls resort on the East Coast.

The week in question is known as Bowls England week as many officials from the World Indoor Bowls Championships stay over which gives the ordinary club players the chance to mingle with the officials as well as competing with teams from across the country.

Potters, who have hosted the Bowls World Championship for years, is well known for looking after its guests. The beds are comfortable and the meals are plentiful and delicious. There are many activities for non-bowlers. But of course the main activity for most visitors is bowls.

Our club entered five teams. All

teams performed well, well enough in fact to earn a Top Club award for the highest average performance. Our best performing team was; Joan Hope, Don Hope, Pat Dobson (who organized the tour) and Sam Dobson. They are shown on the photograph flanked by Greg Harlow – three times World Indoor Bowls Champion and Bill Smith President of Bowls England.

All in all, the bowls holiday was a most enjoyable and successful break.

From St Margaret's Co-operative Bowls Club Pics: Bowlers from St Margaret's at Potters

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Fire safety message CHILDREN AT Birstall Methodist preschool have been learning about fire and fire-fighters.

The children have had fun dressing up as fire-fighters, using a hose and water to put out pretend fires and finding props to aid their role play.

Joint preschool leader Michele Wilkinson said: “There has been great discussions on what causes fires and roles of fire fighters. The pre-school children have also been practicing the fire drill to learn what to do if there was a real fire.”

“The children are enjoying being in control of their own learning and coming up with different ideas daily. The staff have found the children have become more independent and confident in accessing resources and initiating their own learning through play” said joint preschool leader Reshma Thakrar.

Charity donates PE kit to school £1000 WORTH of PE kit has been donated to a Birstall school.

St James Monday group

cones, pop up goals, bean bags, dice and mats with numbers and letters.

“The dice and the mats are a great way to incorporate Maths and English into PE, it’s a fun way for children to learn in more of a practical way.”

She added: “The children are very happy that we have more sports equipment for them to play with. One student said ‘I love using the football because I love football and kicking in the goal’.”

WE KICKED OFF' our February meeting with a visit and demonstration from a podiatrist, which was highly informative.

Pic: PE teacher Emma Oakes with children and the new kit

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She stressed the importance of looking after our feet and also told us of the dreadful impact that can result from diabetes and other (rather nasty) foot conditions.

We have had news of 'our' medical detection dog, Mary, and also a picture.

She is a beautiful 'teenage' dog now, lively and a bit mischievous, but bright and doing well in her training and general socialisation with people and other dogs, which is absolutely essential to her future work.

Monday Group members have now been asked to nominate another charity that we can support during the coming year, and we will vote on the choices put forward during our March meeting.

The programme for the coming year is yet to be finalised, but so far contains such mouth-watering topics as 'The History of Spam'! I wonder if we will have samples? Or spam fritters? Or hash?

The possibilities are (nearly) endless ...

At the other end of the spectrum we will hear about 'The Laura Ashley story'; the lady who gave us such pretty and feminine clothing and fresh interior decor. I think it is going to be a very good year.

As always, we welcome new members to the group in the Age Concern rooms of the Village Hall at 7.30pm on the second Monday of every month. Tea and biccies - of course!

From St James Monday Group

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

The ALP independent specialist school is based at the Cedars Academy and provides education for young people on the autistic spectrum or with mental health difficulties.

The equipment has been provided by the Premier League Primary Stars scheme and is designed to not only promote physical activity but to tie in with the Maths and English curriculum.

Emma Oakes, PE Specialist at ALP, said: “The kit is all Nike and is made up of different colour bibs, hoops,

13

Faces Arts’ annual show FACES ARTS, the locally based and well-established performing arts company for children, performed their yearly Commercial Street Show at The Cedars Academy in Birstall this February.

Local children from Birstall participated in the performances and Faces Arts Director Jody Chesterton said: “I’m proud and full of admiration for the student’s achievements.

Faces Arts is about providing opportunities for the local children to discover their performing talents.

The development in their ability and self-confidence of the children has been outstanding. A huge well done to all the children who took part”.

Faces Arts hosts a variety of classes for children.

For more information please visit www.facesarts.co.uk

Getting back on track with school grades

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

YOUR CHILD’S latest school report may state that they are tracking off their predicted grades and not reaching their true potential.

Anita Pancholi from Tutor Doctor says: “It’s natural as a parent to be concerned.

“Working below their expected levels could be due to a variety of reasons: not following up on tasks set by school, incomplete homework and a lack of academic discipline. Whatever the reason, your child may well find themselves feeling frustrated and overwhelmed with workload. The lack of success at school can leave your child with lower selfconfidence.”

She added: “As parents, many of us find this situation all too familiar and also frustrating as we know our child

has the ability to do better. Doing better at school is not about studying harder or for longer, it’s all a matter of equipping your child with the appropriate set of study skills.

“Our 1-1 in home tutors are subject experts and support with academic knowledge, time management, organisation and prioritisation skills. We call this Academic Success Formula, and this will allow your child to meet their goals, have increased confidence and unlock their true potential.”

To book your free in-home consultation, call (0116) 319 4416.

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NHW news

& crime report Rats Some of our members had to call on Charnwood Council’s Pest Control Services in February when they found their home invaded by rats.

This was a very difficult and traumatic event for them, as we can well imagine.

While this is not a crime of the kind to be reported to the Police, there are things that we can all do to protect our neighbours and ourselves.

A rat’s average life expectancy is between twelve and eighteen months during which a female will produce up to six litters of five to seven young each.

Breeding occurs throughout the year and depends more on the availability of food and shelter than on weather conditions.

Avenue, Fielding Road, Park Road, ElmRats are classed as a major public field Avenue and Fieldgate Crescent. We health pest because contamination from have visited all of these locations to faeces and urine that contain microcheck for any CCTV, however unfortuorganisms causes food poisoning and nately, what we have seen has not been other diseases. Signs of infestation are good enough to identify the offenders. droppings, gnawing, damage to fabrics, digging around or under buildings, well- We have also delivered leaflets around the affected areas asking for any witnessworn runs or marks caused by body es to get in touch if they saw anything. If grease over surfaces. They are most active at night but may be seen in search you have any information about any of these crimes, please get in touch with us of food and water in the daytime.

ASAP as we are obviously keen to identify If you suspect that there are rats or the people responsible. other pests in your area, please warn On a more positive note, we have had your neighbours, including those who no house burglaries this month and only back on to your garden. It needs their one non-dwelling burglary. Thefts of fuel cooperation if the risk is to be eliminathave also remained low with only two ed successfully.

Charnwood Borough Council gives the reports being received.

Lastly, we have had three reports of following advice if there are signs of vehicles being damaged and three ‘other infestation: damage’ reports.

• Store all animal food in rodent All other crime categories have been proof containers. low with only one or two reports being • Store all waste, particularly food, in received. lidded containers.

For further crime information please • Do not leave bird food on the visit: www.police.uk/leicestershire/NL60/ ground or on bird tables that can be Crime Prevention Advice climbed by rodents.

As stated above, thefts from vehicles • Do not leave food and water out for has once again been the biggest crime pets unattended. category this month and so whilst I ap• Clear away animal droppings and any spillages such as bird or rabbit food, preciate the message has been put out numerous times before, now would seem immediately; these are all food for rats. an appropriate time to do so again: • Keep vegetation cut 1) Make sure your car is locked, back to reduce possible even if you are only leaving it for a short shelter. time.

• Do not store old 2) Remove ALL valuables, including furniture in the open. loose change as in most cases, this is all • Always use a bin to that is being stolen. compost rather than an 3) Consider putting your vehicle key open pile.

• Use heavy gauge wire in a metal tin at night as there is some suggestion that thieves are able to open mesh no larger than cars by picking up the signals transmit10mm, on gaps under decking or holes in build- ted by the keys. Placing it in a metal tin is believed to prevent this from happenings or seal them coming. pletely.

4) Report any suspicious activity on • Keep gardens tidy by 101 or 999 if you think a crime is acturemoving unused items such as hutches and cages. ally in progress.

Neighbourhood update • Remove over-hanging The beat team conducted another branches touching your speeding operation in January, on Rectoroof to prevent pests getry Road in Wanlip. We recorded just ting into the loft. under 100 vehicles through the site and Much more informaI am pleased to report that we had no tion can be found on the vehicles exceeding the speed limit. FurBorough Council website: www.charnwood.gov.uk ther operations are planned for future months & I will update you on the re/pages/pestcontrolservice sults of these in subsequent reports.

The next NeighbourI am also sad to report that PCSO hood Watch Advice Shop 6552 Mo Musa has left the beat this will be open in the Parish month to take up a new role covering Council Building at 10 Sileby and Barrow. Presently there are Sibson Road between 10 no plans to replace Mo and so moving am and 12 noon on Saturforward there will only be my-self and day March 16.

PCSO Butler covering the beat.

From Birstall & Wanlip NHW We obviously wish Mo all the very best for the future and would like to take this opportunity to thank him for all his hard work during the time he has Crime update been in Birstall and Wanlip. He will be We have had a total of 37 crimes reported to us in greatly missed.

Meet your local police team January, which is a signifiA member of the team will be at the cant drop from December following locations: when we had 53.

Sibson Road Police Office - Sat 16th Unfortunately however, February & Sat 16th March from 10am we have had a large number of thefts from vehi- to 12 midday (in conjunction with the NHW). cles again this month, with From PC 1759 Dave Jaeckels, PCSO 6611 a total of 20 offences being Mark Butler reported. 11 of these hapNL60 – Birstall Police Office. pened in one night (24/1 – http://www.leics.police.uk Tel: 0116 2677355 (Please note this is an 25/1) on Harrowgate Drive, advice line only – Please use 101 or 999 to Briargate Avenue, Walnut report crime)

Club’s new courts BIRSTALL WATERMEAD Tennis Club has announced that it is upgrading its courts at the Co-operative Sports Ground.

The existing tarmac surfaces are being replaced with ProTurf artificial grass.

“There are several benefits to having artificial grass surfaces” said club chair Andy Page. “As well as providing a truer and more even playing surface, artificial grass courts are much more forgiving on the joints - knees in particular. In addition to this, in wet weather, the surface will feel less slippery underfoot than the current all weather courts.”

He added: “This should prove popular with club members and also with players from other clubs in Leicestershire when they come to Birstall to play in Leicestershire League tennis matches. Birstall Watermead enters women’s, men’s and mixed teams for adult, junior and veterans league competitions.”

The new courts will be ready for the new tennis season starting in April when members can renew their memberships and new members are welcome to join. As well as senior memberships, junior, student and family memberships are also available.

Andy said: “We are hoping that the new courts will help us grow the membership, covering all ages and skill levels. We will be arranging open days shortly, once the courts are laid, so that people can try the new facility and help us move the club forward.”

New cemetery toilets THE TOILETS at Birstall cemetery will be refurbished this year.

Birstall Parish Council have chosen a contractor to do the work at a cost of £7,110.

Parish Clerk Sue Coulson said: “These works to the council’s cemetery toilet block are long overdue and the council is sure that the improvements will be welcomed and appreciated by the many regular visitors to the cemetery.”

The refurbishment will include installing stainless steel toilets and wash basins and new LED lighting.

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

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Vehicle delivery issues raised A BIRSTALL company that provides contract hire cars organised a public meeting to address concerns about the operations of its business.

Easydrive is based on Meadow Lane, employs 15 people and was started in 2014. The business is growing and mostly supplies contract hire vehicles to businesses.

Concerns and complaints were being raised on facebook about the loading and unloading of cars from a vehicle transporter on Wanlip Lane, near the junction with Lambourne Road. These related to the safety of pedestrians and lack of visibility for motorists near the junction.

Responding on facebook, Easydrive apologised and invited anyone with con-

cerns to visit their office on February 12 to discuss solutions.

Imran Adam, Procurement Manager, said: “We appreciate all the concerns raised, we like being located here in the

Birstall community and we want to get on.

“Some of the facebook comments were saying things like cars block their drive or even firebomb the place, so we wanted to reach out to people and show them we are doing something about it.”

The vehicle transporter had been collecting and delivering vehicles once a week, but those have now been moved from Wanlip Lane to the A6/A46 Interchange service area.

Mr Adam said anyone with any concerns about the operation of the business can vest the office on Meadow Lane or call 07500 500900.

Pic (top): Imran Adam from Easydrive

Bark Foundation news

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

A FUNDRAISING coffee morning for the Bark foundation raised a total of £303.

“This is a fantastic result, the money is much needed for our latest project “ said Joy Bark from the Foundation, which supports the Hotpec orphanage in Cameroon.

She added: “Many thanks to those who supported us, including the unknown person who put a donation cheque through our door following the article in the February Birstall Post.

“Currently just maintaining daily life in Cameroon is difficult so we are sad that the borehole water installation we completed in October 2015 needs restoration. The pump has seized due to conditions beyond their control and engineers cannot remove it. The only solution is to bore another hole to take a new pump. The cost will be £4,200.

“Meanwhile the orphanage is existing on the trickling tap municipal supply, rationed to 2 or 3 hours a day, three days a week. The pressure is too low for supply to be pumped up to the water tower, in reserve for the ‘off’ days.

“As water is vital we have already sent the money, borrowing the £2,000 we did not have in the funds- so now we have to work to repay that.”

Help support the foundation by bagging a bargain at their £1 jewellery stall in Birstall Methodist Church lounge on Saturday March 16, 1012noon. www.thebarkfoundation.org

Flower club BIRSTALL FLOWER Club’s first demonstration of the year was called “Colours of the Rainbow”.

Several different arrangements were made to represent the rainbow colours, and as always, these arrangements became the raffle prizes for the evening.

The club have an exciting selection of demonstrators lined up for the rest of the year and in March we have Shirley Henderson coming to the club. She is an Area Demonstrator and Area Judge with a very varied background and experience in flower arranging. She’s an American who first entered the flower world of arranging and competition while living in South Africa. Upon returning to the UK in 2006, she trained to become a NAFAS demonstrator and judge.

Come and join us at the Village Hall on Wednesday March 27 as a visitor and decide whether watching flower arranging could be your new hobby for 2019.

Pic: a previous winner

New singers THE HEART of England Chorus is mixed chorus who sing close harmony in the Barbershop style and meets at Birstall Social Club every Monday evening at 7.30pm.

In October the ‘Everyone in Harmony’ course to attract new members saw some 40 people came along on the first evening, and to date 18 have fully signed up with the newly formed mixed chorus.

Spokesman Jan Hunt said: “We even took our newest members to their first ‘Singout’ at the Loros Christmas Concert in December which gave them a taste of performance in front of a large and appreciative audience.

“This coming May we will be attending the annual Barbershop Convention in Bournemouth, competing as a mixed chorus for the first time.

“The inclusion of ladies into what was a male chorus adds a new and exciting dynamic to our sound and should any other ladies, or men, wish to join us then just come along, Monday evenings 7-30pm at Birstall Social Club.”

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Help lend a hand on the river A RAPIDLY growing charity needs new volunteers to help visitors enjoy a day on the river.

Following the launch of a nationwide fund raising campaign during November 2017, The Baldwin Trust, a local waterways based community charity, now has a different problem to solve!

The Trust was set up in 1983 to help patients of the Baldwin Ward at the former Leicester Frith Hospital by giving them therapeutic trips on the tranquil waters of the local river and canal system.

The Trust is a Charity crewed entirely by volunteers to provide enjoyable days out for people of all ages and physical abilities. The boats are fitted with ramps

Pics: A Baldwin Trust river trip and (left) volunteer crew aboard a boat

Touch screen display A LARGE 55 inch touch display screen has been installed at the Mountsorrel and Rothley Heritage Centre.

Provided thanks to fundraising by Rothley primary school, the new display has been installed in the downstairs heritage room.

A spokesman said: “At present there are over 200 photos, videos, and narrations for you to watch on the display, these will be added to over the coming months as we scan and index the wealth of historical information that has been loaned to us. This should give visitors a taste of what is planned for our Discovery Centre and allow you to see historical content with much more detail than would be possible in a book or on a display board.

“A massive thank you to Rothley Primary School for raising the funds to allow us to buy this.”

great day on the water.

Set the task of securing funds to replace both of its 30+ year old narrow boats; the funding team and volunteers have been successful in raising adequate funds to order the first of the new 68 foot long narrow boats. Construction started in February and completion is expected during July 2019.

Spokesman Alisdair Macintyre said: “Having transported nearly 2,000 members of our community on the canals and rivers of Leicestershire during 2018, we have been surprised and delighted by the level of support to acquire the first and lifts for easy access for wheelchairs new boat but now find that we need and other mobility issues. They are also more volunteers and experienced skipvery happy to arrange trips for family pers to man the increased fleet of three and community groups wishing to have a boats by August this year! We never expected this to happen so quickly!”

They have recruited 15 new volunteers during the last six months but need at least 15 more to meet the growing demand from disadvantaged people of all ages to enjoy a day on the river.

Alisdair said: “Can you help? Are you interested in using your spare time to help those less able than you? If you enjoy the outdoors and time by the waterside or may have some sailing experience, working with this Trust could be just right for you!”

You can visit the web site for the Trust at www.baldwintrust.co.uk and fill out the volunteer application form and return it to the Trust or you can write to: The Secretary, 52, Johnson Road, Birstall, Leicester, LE4 3AS with your details.

Birstall gala 2019

Borough council tax

BIRSTALL GALA, organised by Birstall Parish Council, returns this year on Saturday June 22.

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

The fairground will start the ball rolling for the day by opening at 11am and the bands will begin to perform at mid-day up until 7pm.

There will then be a short interval while the stage is prepared for the ‘Proms in the Park’ event which will start at 7:30pm and conclude with a Firework Finale at 10pm, weather permitting.

Due to popular demand, there will be a number of charity, private and trade stalls on the field. To book a stall contact the Parish Council Offices on 0116 267 6191 or download the booking form from the Parish Council website: www.birstallparishcouncil.org.uk There will be a lot of free attractions for all ages to enjoy, however, to help the Parish Council with the running

Leicestershire County Council, Leicestershire Police and Leicestershire Fire and Rescue and the parish council where you live.

The Charnwood element accounts for less than 10 per cent of the total bill.

The proposed increase would see the annual charge for an average Band D property rise £5 (4.27 per cent) to £122.09 from April 1, 2019.

It is also being proposed to keep the Loughborough Special Rate, paid by residents of Loughborough and the equivalent of a parish precept in villages, at the same rate, £74.97.

Councillor Tom Barkley, Lead Member for Finance and Property Services, said: “We are proposing to increase our local element of council tax for the next financial year. costs they will again be requesting a £1 “Local government funding remains entry fee for all adults (over 18’s).

For health & safety reasons the coun- challenging and in order to protect our frontline services, we have put forward cil has a complete ban on BBQ’s on the what we believe is a reasonable proposal. field throughout the event. Visitors can THE GCR railway featured in the “It would mean we will still have one bring their own picnics, tables, chairs, of the lowest council tax rates in the recently released film ‘Stan and gazebos, etc. and there will be ample hot food outlets available throughout the country. We are also proposing to freeze Ollie’ starring Steve Coogan and the Loughborough Special Rate once event.

John C Reilly again.

Parish Clerk Sue CoulParts of the film were shot aboard “Even with this increase, it will still son said: “The Parish carriages along the line and shots of the mean we will have to use some of our Council is always grateful train station were filmed at Loughborreserves in order to balance the books for help at this busy event for 2019/2020.However, because of care- ough. and if you wish to volunThe film is a comedy drama about the ful planning in the past, our financial teer some of your time to famous comedians Stan Laurel and Olivposition will remain strong which will assist the staff and counciler Hardy in their later years as they allow us to continue to offer excellent lors, your help would be travel around the UK and Ireland in services for residents.” most appreciated.”

1953 on a music hall tour.

Charnwood Borough Council currently Contact the office on The GCR has been used as a film has the 23rd lowest council tax charge 0116 267 6191 or email: out of 201 district councils in the country. location for the films ‘Enigma’ and ‘The admin@birstallpc.org.uk Hours’ as well as for Netflix’s ‘The Council tax pays for a range of servicfor further information. es provided Charnwood Borough Council, Crown’ and the TV show, Top Gear

Film shot locally

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

16

Wreake valley history ARCHAEOLOGIST Peter Liddle gave a presentation to 140 members of the Syston & District University of the third age.

Mr Liddle explained that in the Wreake Valley, Rotherby has been a rich source of Anglo-Saxon metal artefacts from burial grounds and aerial photography during a quarry excavation at Cossington revealed the site of a Bronze Age settlement. Land around Brooksby was farmed by the Romans and long before them there’s evidence of Neolithic activity dating back 5,000 years. Queniborough has houses dating back to the 14th Century and Hamilton village, originally called Hambleton – is the site of one of the best preserved deserted villages in the county.

At Rothley there have been finds of Neolithic pottery and flints, plus pots and ditches dating from Roman times, and evidence of a large Roman villa with coins, pottery, pots and brooches. www.u3asites.org.uk/syston

Singer & raconteur

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

SINGER AND RACONTEUR Jonathan Veira will be performing at Rothley primary school on Saturday March 9 at 7.15pm.

The concert has been organised by Rothley Church Men’s Group. Spokesman Eric Hissett said: “Jonathan performed many years ago for us at Holy Trinity in Loughborough and frequently appears on Songs of Praise. He celebrates 25 years on the operatic stage in 2010. Jonathan’s 25th anniversary saw him on the Glyndebourne stage as the wicked stepfather Don Magnifico in La Cenerentola by Rossini.

“He has performed across the globe in a variety of roles and musical styles from Mozart through to John Adams. He uses his voice and his skills as a musician on the piano and guitar together with his talents as a comedian and most of all communicator. This show goes from opera to pop and includes jazz, standards and even country and western along the way – everyone finds a song that they love in this show. Jonathan’s anecdotes and comments on life resonate with his guests which often result in great hilarity shared by all.”

Tickets cost £12 and include liquid refreshments, with all proceeds going to the Rothley Food Bank and other local charities.

Tickets from hssett@hotmail.com or on the door

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Volunteer drivers needed WOULD YOU like to help people in your local area by becoming a volunteer mini-bus driver?

Volunteers can give as little or as much time as they wish, whatever fits around their other commitments.

Age Concern Syston is a small selffunding help and information centre for the elderly serving Syston and district. It runs day care groups and a respite care group and also organises trips out to pubs, restaurants, garden centres, museums and theatres in our mini-bus.

A spokesman said: “All our drivers are volunteers and we would not be able to function without them. We would give you a test drive of our mini-bus to make sure you are happy then add you to our rota for times suitable to you.”

Friday night gym A BIRSTALL boxing gym’s new Friday night class welcomes newcomers and if your name’s Louis you will feel especially at home.

Trainer at Tactical Basement, Dean Spencer said: “It’s a funny coincidence that four of the lads on this session have the same Christian name – Louis Spencer, Louis Summers, Louis Derry and Lewis Gutteridge – ok, spelt differently!”

Tactical Basement is based at Birstall Social Club and the Friday session is from 7-8pm. The first class is free. Call Dean on 079 795 11 501.

Louis Spencer is in training for the heavyweight championship title challenge for white collar boxing on March 8.

M&G Plumbing Services Please get in touch with Yvonne or Elaine by telephone 0116 2601476, or email ageconcernsyston@tiscali.co.uk or call into the office between 9-12.30 Mon-Fri at The Methodist Church Centre, High Street, Syston, Leicester LE7 1GP

WI news BIRSTALL AND Wanlip WI met on February 4 at the British Legion.

We welcomed some new ladies and this swelled our numbers to 40. So a full house welcomed return speaker Derek Holloway who gave us an entertaining talk about the life of writer, illustrator, sheep farmer and conservationist Beatrix Potter.

As usual there is plenty of opportunity for entertainment as we have tickets for Grease, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, War Horse and West Side Story all to be performed at the Curve this year.

We are currently organizing our annual coffee morning to be held on May 11 at Birstall Methodist Church where we will be selling cakes, plants, handmade cards and crafts. We are also hosting a group quiz at Birstall Social Club in July and sifting through several options for our Summer Coach trip.

Our next meeting is on March 4 when Tom Phillips, a chocolatier from Quorn will talk and create all things chocolate and the competition will be a chocolate recipe. This is surely a meeting not to be missed!

From Birstall & Wanlip WI

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Viking night out for Birstall Cubs BIRSTALL CUBS have become fully fledged Vikings after taking part in a boat burning ceremony at their local campsite.

Their adventure began in the new year and for any boat burning you need a boat so they built their Viking longboat complete with dragon’s head and sweeping tail.

The following week they left their uniforms at home and came dressed in old clothes as they painted their boat and installed masts and sails.

No Viking warlord is complete without a trusted sword and shield when they head into battle, so that was next on

the agenda. The swords and shields were designed and created by DofE volunteers Tom, Alex and Ethan who took over the running of the evening

showing and helping the cubs how to cut out, make and paint their swords and shields in thief favourite tribal colours.

This all culminated in a Viking ceremonial boat burning at John’s Lee Wood where the cubs could practice their fighting skills with swords and shields before setting fire to the longboat with flaming torches. They completed the evening with a good old Viking feast of roasted venison (which looked and tasted just like toasted marshmallows) From Ged Sessions, Birstall Scouts

Planning applications P/19/0349/2: 25 Oakfield Ave – proposed single storey front & side extension, two storey side & rear extension, external rendering and internal alterations P/19/0294/2: 522 Loughborough Rd – 2 storey extension to side of house. External insulation & rendering to side elevation P/19/0251/2: 21 Tempest Rd - double storey rear extension, internal changes, façade improvements P/19/0249/2: 49 Wanlip Lane – single storey front extension and 2 storey side & rear extension P/19/0244/2: 51 Roman Road – extensions to detached house P/19/0232/2: 29 Greengate Lane – proposed garage conversion, single storey side & rear extension, 1st floor rear extension and new dormer to rear P/19/0227/2: 12 Went Rd – proposed single storey rear extension and removal of existing garage P/19/0213/2: 635 Loughborough Rd – erection of single storey rear extension P/19/0156/2: 35 Bridge Green – proposed sin-

gle storey extension to rear of dwelling P/19/0132/2: 505 Loughborough Rd – erection of detached dwelling and garage, replacement garage for existing dwelling and alterations to existing vehicular access and driveway P/19/0245/2: The Cedars Academy, Wanlip Lane, Wanlip – new 2 storey science block. New single storey extension to existing sports hall block to house changing rooms. Replacement of existing roof lights & windows in the existing sports hall building. Installation of new roof coverings to the existing sports hall roof and repainting and rending facade as noted on the drawings. Demolitions of buildings as noted on drawings. New fence between new science block and existing buildings. New fence to a portion of the north boundary as noted on drawings. Partial demolition of roof above kitchen area & construction of new roof infill, new roof coverings and new plant on roof. Installation of a new kitchen extraction system. Refurbishments of food technology classroom, IT classroom and music classroom including works to the roofs to house new plant.

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Council tax pays for more Police THE DECISION to approve a budget which will see more than 100 extra police officers on the streets of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland has been welcomed by the Force’s Chief Constable.

Simon Cole said he was delighted that the budget, proposed by the Police and Crime Commissioner Lord Willy Bach, had been approved by the Police and Crime Panel at its meeting in February.

The overall package contains an increase in the amount of money paid by local people in their council tax, and Mr Cole said the money would be invested wisely.

He said: “For the first time in nearly ten years we enter a new financial year with an increase in the money available to fund policing services, and the vast majority of the additional cash will go straight to the front line and into the heart of our communities.”

Of the 107 new officers: 60 will be patrol officers based in the eight neighbourhood police areas 24 new detectives will be based in the neighbourhood police areas 8 new beat officers will be placed in the proactive teams dealing with current and emerging issues in each of the neighbourhood areas 8 new officers will tackle emerging crime on a proactive basis 7 new officers will focus on the crime that impacts upon the most vulnerable in our communities Of these 107 extra officers, it is expected that 80 will be recruited in the 2019-20 financial year, with the remaining 27 coming on board in 2020-21.

Lord Willy Bach, Leicestershire’s Police & Crime Commissioner, said he was delighted to see such a significant growth in local officers, something he has consistently pledged to deliver.

However, he added that it was disappointing that this needed to be funded by a 12% increase in the amount local people pay towards policing boosted by a further £5.1M from reserves over the next four years.

In December 2018 the Government made it clear that it expected Police and Crime Commissioners to increase the amount of council tax paid towards policing by £24 for a Band D household in 2019-20.

A survey, carried out by the PCC, found that over 70% of respondents were willing to pay the increased amount. Thanking the public for its support, Willy Bach said he was determined to see additional funding from this increase invested in the things that matter most to local people.

“People want to see more police in communities and this budget will enable us to recruit 107 extra officers," he said. "I'm delighted that we are at last in a position to see real growth in officer numbers, but I should be clear that this is only happening due to an increase in the police portion of the council tax and a hefty chunk from our Reserves.

“It is hugely disappointing that the Government expects local people to pay more towards policing but if I am to increase officer numbers I have no option but to raise the police precept.

“Local people are now paying the price for years of austerity, but PCCs have been left with no alternative.

Even this will not solve all the financial challenges. Of every additional £24 raised, £14 will be used to pay for rising costs and overheads, leaving just £10 to invest in new resources. To protect our plans in the future I have agreed to use money from our reserves over the next four years.”

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

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‘Lion Learners’ visited the school and as well as the more exotic animals children also got the chance to cuddle some rabbits and guinea pigs.

Head of School Anna Stewart said: “The PTA funded for Lion Learners to come to school. The children enjoyed meeting furry creatures and a few reptiles.

They learnt about the animals and where they come from and we looked at a world map and placed the animals on this. They children loved meeting many animals and were all very brave.”

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News from the churches

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

ALL WINTER I have been saying (to myself and anyone who will listen!) " It'll soon be Spring". It really helps pass those days when it hardly seems to get light. Anyway - guess what it really is nearly Spring. Snowdrops are out in our churchyards and bulbs are stretching their green limbs.

Easter is just over the horizon.

Before we get there, however, the "God, Me and Art" group are planning and working on their interpretations of the Stations of the Resurrection, using various media, which we will look forward to seeing.

The 'Nearer' group (the missional community attached to the Parish of Birstall and Wanlip) have begun a course about myths about mission, produced by the Church Mission Society. If you would like to know more about the course and the meeting place, please contact Gill or Peter Chester on tel: 0116 212 0236. Everybody is welcome to join in.

There have been some special Sunday services in St. James Church this last month. One service was led by the Archdeacon from Leicester Cathedral. It is always quite ‘refreshing’ to have new views and input from a different source, and we do have a very welcoming church. Strengthening our ties with the Cathedral, a visit is planned for February 20 to view the St. Katherine's Chapel windows, going to the Gateway Museum to see windows based on the Sacraments, then returning to the Cathedral for the 1 o'clock Eucharist. There will also be lunch!

The first Sunday of every month is always our 'All Together' service, where

everybody is welcome, and this month it coincided with 'Candlemas'. The service was attended by members of the Birstall ATC, and they made a large and very welcome contribution to the service, making it very special. It is always a great pleasure to see the various organisations of Birstall and Wanlip.

Canon Anne Horton has undertaken to create a Church photo album! All photos of the congregation, past or present, would be hugely appreciated by her, if you have any. Just think - we are part of history in the making! Canon Anne can be contacted on 'rahorton@outlook.com' if you have any photos of yourself or relatives you could contribute. I like to think it will give future generations something to giggle at ...

From Birstall Parish Churches

Have Tea Down Memory Lane Birstall Methodist Church is hosting a new social group for anyone feeling lonely, their families and carers.

“Down Memory Lane” will meet on the first Saturday of every other month in the Coffee Shop at the Church from 2.30pm to 4pm.

“This group gives people who are feeling lonely or left out the opportunity to get together for a chat and to socialize with friends. We usually have some form of entertainment, for example music, and everyone enjoys singing along.

“We also have a break for tea and coffee – and a lovely piece of cake. Anyone attending is invited to bring other family members or friends, and all are welcome. The event is completely free of charge”, says organizer Janet Bradford, who can be contacted for more informa-

tion on 0116 267 1471.

For 2019 the dates are April 6; June 1; August 3; October 5 and December 7.

Sunday Club We have two invitations we hope you will consider accepting: On after the morning service on Sunday March 3 (the closest Sunday to Shrove Tuesday) Sunday Club will be serving pancakes in the Coffee Shop in return for a small donation to Christian Aid. We guarantee plenty of pancakes for all!

And on Mothering Sunday (March 31) we invite all the families who have brought their babies and young children for baptism at our church over the past few years to join us for activities, crafts and breakfast.

From Birstall Methodist Church

Sunday Services We have two visiting speakers during March: Joe Bailey on 3rd and John Tonks on 24th. Both men are from Leicester. The remaining three services in March will be taken by Graham Bunkall. We would like to remind you that you are warmly invited to join with us. A Sunday School for junior children is available during the service. The services begin at 10.45am and are in the usual venue of Room PT1, The Palmer Tomkinson Centre, The Cedars Academy, Wanlip Lane, Birstall (LE4 4GH).

Evington Winter Lectures The fifth and last of these lectures on the theme of ‘A Taste of the Puritans’, will be on Saturday March 23, starting at 7pm. The subject is: “’A Lifting up for the Downcast’: William Bridge” and the speaker is Richard Brooks (Catshill, near Bromsgrove). Admission to these meetings is free and all are welcome. (A lift is available.) The chapel is situated on High Street, Evington, LE5 6FH. These lectures are recorded and can be down-

loaded afterwards from the Chapel’s website: www.evingtonchapel.org.uk.

Enquiries about BIBC: please ring 0116 221 4883 From Birstall Independent Baptist Church

Susan and I have lived in Birstall for the last 9 years and we love it here. We also love the fact that TLC Birstall is growing and thriving. In March you are welcome to join us on Sundays to find out more about Jesus or simply to visit and find out what we are like. The campus leaders Andre and Prea Timothy are looking forward to meeting you and if you would like a visit simply email them andre.timothy@trinitylifechurch.org.uk On March 24 we join with the other seven TLC campuses at 11.15am for an amazing morning at the Leicester Arena.

We are going to look back at all God has done over the last 12 months and tell stories and give thanks. With performances from our children and young people, inspiration from the Bible and the freedom to worship Jesus together it’s a morning you will not want to miss.

After our celebration there will be food outlets, a Six Degrees café, inflatables, a football tournament, pamper and craft areas, and fun for every person. There is free parking at the Arena - Why not join us?

Open Hands is TLC’s compassion charity and if you would like to volunteer to serve the poor in Leicester or would value some support yourself simply go on our website where you will find all the information you need www.openhandsleicester.org.uk.

Have a brilliant March From David & Susan Hind, Trinity Life Church

Birstall BAG’s cancer corner Radiotherapy Half of all people with cancer will have radiotherapy at some point during their treatment. Birstall BAGs wanted to provide some information about radiotherapy so that readers can understand a little more about this vital treatment.

Radiotherapy means the use of radiation, usually high does x-rays, to treat cancer cells. You might have radiotherapy from inside the body, this is called internal radiotherapy. Or external radiotherapy is from outside of the body. Radiotherapy can be used to try to cure cancer, reduce the chance of cancer coming back or to help relieve symptoms.

You might have it by itself or with other treatments such as, chemotherapy or surgery.

External Radiotherapy Most types of radiotherapy use photons. But you might have electrons or more rarely protons. Radiotherapy destroys the cancer cells in the treated area by damaging the DNA of these cells.

Radiation also affects normal cells, this can cause side effects in the area you’re receiving treatment.Your radiotherapy treatment plan is individual to you. It

aims to give a high dose to the cancer but as low a dose as possible to the surrounding healthy cells. This gives the highest chance of curing or shrinking the cancer while reducing the risk of side effects.

When deciding on your course of treatment your doctor takes into account: • your type of cancer • the position of the cancer in the body • any other treatment you've had, are having, or is planned for you • your general health and fitness Radiotherapy with the aim of curing cancer usually lasts between 1 to 7 weeks.

For radiotherapy to relieve symptoms, you might have anything between a single treatment to 2 weeks of treatment.

Internal radiotherapy Internal Radiotherapy gives radiation from inside the body. There are different types of internal radiotherapy treatments, such as nuclear medicine or brachytherapy. The type you have depends on your cancer type and where it is in the body.

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Nuclear medicine involves putting radioradiotherapy, proton beam therapy is active liquids inside the body. These painless, but patients may experience liquids can come in the form of capsules, side effects similar to those experienced drinks or injections. And can treat or from other forms of radiotherapy. diagnose cancer. Whereas, brachytheraTwo NHS centres will provide high py uses radioactive metal. This metal is energy proton beam therapy in the UK, put into the body either inside or close The Christie NHS Foundations Trust in to the cancer.

Manchester and University College LonInternal radiotherapy delivers a highdon Hospital (UCLH) NHS Foundation er dose of radiation with less side effects Trust. The Christie NHS proton beam than external radiotherapy. This is betherapy centre opened in Autumn 2018, cause internal radiotherapy delivers and the first patient was treated in Deradiation from inside the body, close to cember 2018.The second NHS centre is the cancer, so less healthy cells receive currently being built at University College a dose of radiation. But because internal London Hospitals with treatment due to radiotherapy is either in or very close to begin in summer 2020. When complete the cancer, it means it's only suitable for the two centres will each treat up to 750 smaller cancers. patients every year.

Proton Beam Therapy Side Effects of Radiotherapy Proton beam therapy is a type of Radiotherapy affects people in differradiotherapy that uses a beam of high ent ways, so it's difficult to predict exactenergy protons, which are small parts of ly how you will react. Some people only atoms, rather than high energy x-rays have mild side effects but for others the (called “photons”) to treat specific types side effects are more severe. of cancer. Proton beam therapy enables Tiredness a dose of high energy protons to be You might feel tired or lack energy precisely targeted at a tumour, reducing when you are having radiotherapy. This the damage to surrounding healthy tismay last for a few weeks after the treatsues and vital organs which is an advan- ment ends. This can be because the tage in certain groups of patients or body is repairing damage to healthy cells, where the cancer is close to a critical low levels of red blood cells (anaemia) part of the body such as the spinal cord. and travelling to the radiotherapy departProton beam therapy is only suitable ment each day. Some people do keep for certain types of cancer, such as high- working during treatment. Whether you ly complex brain, head and neck cancan or not depends on how you feel. cers and Rest if you need to and try to exercise sarcomas as it when you can. This can help to reduce does not lead to the tiredness. better outcomes Sore skin for many cancer Some people get sore skin in the cases than using treatment area from radiotherapy. Your high energy skin might look reddened or darker, be x-rays, which is dry and itchy or break and blister. The still considered staff in the radiotherapy department can the most approadvise you on the best way of coping priate and effecwith this.They usually advise you to use a tive treatment for simple non fragranced moisturiser and the majority of to be gentle with the area. cancers. Like Loss of hair in the treatment area. high energy x-ray Radiotherapy makes the hair fall out in the treatment area. It won't cause hair to fall out in other parts of your body.

THE BIRSTALL POST Your hair might grow back a few weeks YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER after treatment ends, if it's unlikely to Unit 109, Greenacres, your doctor should tell you this before The Sidings, Leicester LE4 3BR treatment.

Editor: Mr Jerry Jackson Other side effects Other side effects that you may have, Editorial/Advertising depend on the area of the body being treated. Tell your doctor, nurse or radiographer about any side effects. treatCorrespondence, news etc ment for cancer can cause some general can be handed in at: side effects, such as tiredness and sore Birstall Library or to our office: Unit 109, Greenacres, The Sidings skin.

Leicester LE4 3BR, For more Information:editor@birstallpost.co.uk www.cancerresearchuk.org and www.birstallpost.co.uk www.england.nhs.uk/commissioning/spec -services/highly-spec-services/pbt/ Or contact:- University Hospitals of Leicester Cancer Information Centre on 0116 258 618 GENERAL BUILDING & HOME REPAIRS For more information on the funds Brickwork • Patios we have raised, projects we support and Re-pointing forthcoming events see Tiling • Plaster www.birstallbags.co.uk Contact the BAGs by email Patching • Fencing etc birstallbags@hotmail.com No job too small

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The April issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Mar 30.

The copy deadline is Mar 15.

THE BIRSTALL POST MAR 2019

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