Birstall Post (438) Jan 2020

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

JANUARY 2020

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 438

Allington Drive memorial garden A LARGE crowd gathered for the opening of a memorial garden in Allington Drive on the second anniversary of the gas explosion that claimed the life of a 79year-old woman, Janet Jasper.

On December 11, 2017 at 7.30am a spark from a cooker ignited gas that had escaped from a cracked pipe, causing an explosion that wholly destroyed one property and badly damaged the Jaspers’ neighbouring property. Janet Jasper was airlifted to hospital but did not survive her injuries.

Dozens of other properties were badly damaged by the explosion and many families were unable to return to their homes for months.

Janet’s husband John contacted Birstall Parish Council to request a bench in memory of Janet but the council decided to do more, designing and building a memorial garden with two benches, planted beds and a hibiscus, one of Janet’s favourites.

John said: “Janet loved her garden and she would have been really pleased at this.

“I would like to thank all those re-

Pic: (Above) John Jasper is interviewed by Quentin Raynor from BBC East Midlands Today; (below) the opening of the garden

Christmas generosity VOLUNTEERS AT Birstall Food Hub say they have been overwhelmed by the generosity of so many people and organisations this Christmas.

Spokeswoman Gill Chester said: “One donor has used her Co-op card savings for us, including special Christmas items. The Riverside Parent’s Drop-in has also had a collection for us, and Acorn Under Fives Pre-school created a Christmas tree out of boxes for the Methodist Church Christmas Tree festival – filling them with goodies for us! Various other donors have generously given gifts anonymously.

“A regular donor has also provided Christmas dinners for the families currently visiting us and we’ve had two boot-fulls of donations, one from a couple who decided not to buy presents this year but to donate to the Food Hub! Thank you all so much.”

For those of you who like to donate items (no fresh food) there is a trolley at the car park exit of the Co-op for regular donations.

need an

electrician?

“Local, Reliable,Clean & Tidy” That’s what our customers are telling us! see our web site for more testimonials.

• Fuse board upgrade/Rewires • Additional sockets & lighting • Landlord safety certificates • All work guaranteed

SO Electrical Contractors Ltd 18 Cliffwood Ave • Birstall • Leicester

sponsible for the garden, it will be a lasting reminder of all the happy years Janet and I spent on Allington Drive, and

Need an EPC? If you sell or let a property you will require an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) To arrange your EPC call Carl on M: 07872 516786 epc4you@live.co.uk

Carl Kaeppner-Smith ACCREDITED ENERGY ASSESSOR

www.epcleicester.com

& Ellen’s MarkPROFESSIONAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE TIDYING • LAWNS CUT • HEDGES TRIMMED SUPPLY & PLANT ORNAMENTAL TREES WINTER GARDEN TIDYING GENERAL PRUNING INCLUDING: APPLE & PEAR TREES

35 YEARS EXPERIENCE

TEL: 07903 614561 or 0116 2692805

for all the neighbours affected by the incident.”

Continued on page 2

0116 2672675 or 07816 288765 www.need-an-electrician.co.uk

Continued from page 1

Pics: (top) the devastation after the explosion; the scene of the explosion today

Pics: (above) the Allington Drive Memorial Garden; (left) a photo of Janet Jasper placed on the bench dedicated to her memory.

Father Ted Mullen from St Theresa’s church blessed the garden before guests returned to the church for refreshments.

Chair of Birstall Parish Council, Ann Marshall said: “I was delighted to be there at the opening of the memorial garden and I hope it will serve as a permanent reminder of the gas explosion and be a pleasant place for people to sit and reflect.”

An inquest into the death of Janet Jasper will be held at Loughborough Coroners Court on January 13 and is expected to last five days. Mr Jasper said: “What we want to know is could it

have been avoided and what more could have been done. I have some trepidation about what we will find out.”

Support for Movember THE FRONT of house team at Birstall’s White Horse have raised £262 by taking part in Movember.

The annual challenge which involves growing their mustaches in November, aims to raise awareness of and funding for men’s health issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health.

Taking part were James Foy (pictured above), Paul Clements, Will West and James McMillan

THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

2

Gun false alarm

Man attacked and robbed in park A MAN who was attacked and robbed on the School Lane playing field is calling for better lighting on the park.

Liam Melvin-Warren (29) of School Lane had walked his dog in the park, taken the dog home, and returned alone POLICE HAVE issued a statement to clear up some dog waste his dog had after a report of a man being left earlier. He had stooped down on the path beside Birstall bowling club that seen with a gun in the Hallam goes to the A6 when he was attacked Fields area was posted on a fafrom behind by three males. cebook site on December 6.

He was punched in the face, kicked A police spokesman said: “No reports in the torso and had his wallet and loose of this nature were received by police change stolen. yesterday although police were in the The incident happened at around Birstall Meadow Road area at around 6pm on Saturday December 7.

9.30pm last night (Dec 5) in response The assailants, aged 13-15, did not to a report of damage caused to a prop- speak to the victim but laughed and erty. jeered at him as the assault took place.

“Officers have been in the area this They ran off in the direction of the A6. morning (Dec 6) in response to this Mr Melvin-Warren suffered bruising, post to make further enquiries and noa split lip and pain in his jaw. His phone one has been located in possession of a was badly damaged after the attack and firearm.” his glasses were broken.

Because of the darkness of the park he could not give police a good description of the attackers, but said they wore light grey jogging bottoms.

Mr Melvin-Warren said: “It’s come as THE GENERAL election on Decem- a bit of a shock that this has happened in Birstall. ber 12, 2019 saw Charnwood’s “The police have told me they can’t Conservative candidate Edward get any evidence from CCTV so I don’t think I will get much justice but I don’t Argar returned as Birstall’s MP. want it to happen to anyone else.

He increased his majority from “It’s a popular dog walking route, and 16,341 (in 2017) to 22,397. He was it is very dark down there. If it hapfirst elected in 2015. pened to me it could happen to anyone General Election 2019 result: Charnwood Edward Argar (Con) : 35,121 The Feb issue of Gary Godden (Lab) : 12,724 THE BIRSTALL POST Kate Tipton (LibDem) : 4,856 will be published on Feb 1.

Laurie Needham (Grn) : 2,664 The copy deadline is Jan 17.

Turnout: 69.9%

Election

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

Chiropody/Podiatry

Pic: the scene of the robbery, on the path through the School Lane playing field

and something needs to be done, better lighting and CCTV would be ideal.”

Mr Melvin-Warren described his assailants as “pathetic and cowardly”.

He attended Birstall Parish Council’s December meeting and made a request that the Council consider installing lighting on the path where he was robbed.

Chair of Birstall Parish Council Ann Marshall told the Birstall Post: “We were all really sorry to hear about this incident, it is such a horrible thing to happen. As far as I know this sort of robbery is very rare in Birstall, I was so surprised.”

A request for lighting will be put on the agenda of a future meeting.

Police are investigating the incident and have put out an appeal for informa-

tion. Contact them via the Leicestershire Police website or on 101, quoting crime reference 1900 0655 192.

DA Roofing & Building Tiling • Slating • Repointing Guttering • Fascias • Soffits ALL WORK GUARANTEED • NO VAT Over 25 Years Experience

Tel: 0116 4315689 Mob: 07789 116726 61 Worcester Ave, Birstall

Midland Window Installations

23A Church Road, Kirby Muxloe, LE9 2AD Tel- 0116 2392024 10 minute drive from Birstall

Tel: 0116 2209311

10% discount

Mob: 0796 7695631

on production of this magazine

Electrician THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

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

Mectric Electrical Services Jon Bradshaw Hill Rise, Birstall, Leicester

0116 2108591 or 0780 8259437

Specialist in PVC-U Windows, Doors, & Conservatories 29-33 Thurcaston Rd, Leicester LE4 5PG Tel:

2676167

ROOFLINE PRODUCTS INCLUDING GUTTERING

3

Birstall’s colourful Christmas celebrations BIRSTALL METHODIST church was transformed into a winter wonderland for its annual Christmas festival.

Displays created by local groups and businesses filled the church and there were stalls selling crafts, decorations, homemade cakes, preserves and refreshments.

Pics: Shane Richards & his daughter Arin May meet a snowman; (top) Birstall Methodist Church; (below) Birstall’s Christmas tree

THE MULLED wine, mince pies and sweets all disappeared speedily at Birstall Parish Council’s Christmas event on December 6.

Pic: Janak (5) and Maansi (3) meeting Santa in the Village Hall

said Cllr Ed Marshall, chair of the Events Committee.

A large number of visitors came to He enjoy the Christmas tree, fun fair and added: Santa’s grotto in the Village Hall.

“There were so many happy faces and “Santa was positive comments from those attending” a star and worked so

Pic: the skating rink on the Sibson Rd car park

hard seeing large numbers of children keen to tell him their Christmas wishes.

“This year’s Christmas tree looked splendid and thanks are due to the local Co-op

store for generously donating the mince pies. Donations for the Co-op’s charity were collected from those attending.

“May I take this opportunity to wish all Birstall residents a very Happy New Year on behalf of Birstall Parish Council.”

Pic: Santa & his helper at the Shop Local Birstall Christmas shopping event on Sibson Rd

THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

4

Helen braves the shave for cancer charity

BIRSTALL’S HELEN Reeve has donated her long hair to charity and had her head shaved, for Macmillan’s Brave the Shave.

The 12 year old just came downstairs one day and told mum Mel she just wanted to do it.

“It was all her idea, I think she’s so brave” said Mel. Hair stylist Sara Lovegrove cut Helen’s hair at the Birstall One Shop supermarket on Hallam Fields Road.

Pic: Braving the shave, Helen Reeve with hairstylist Sara Lovegrove

GAS-SERVWELL (Charnwood Ltd)

Service, Repairs, Installations of all Gas Appliances

12 YR WARRANTY ON BOILER INSTALLS BOILER REPLACEMENTS • SAME DAY BREAKDOWN VISITS Contact Rob:

07860 735066 0116 2367923 bobzgas@gmail.com

Boiler & Gas Fires Serviced

Lots of opportunities to perform throughout the year Dance for fun or train to a pre- professional standard in a friendly, welcoming environment

Support to get you running THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

WILL YOUR New Year's resolution be to get fitter or start running?

Birstall running club are starting their new COUCH to 5K programme on Monday January 13, 2020 at 6pm (meet at the sports pavilion, School Lane, Birstall LE4 4EA) It costs £16 and is designed to take you from the couch to running 5km at your graduation at Parkrun in Braunstone Park.

Mel Snutch from Birstall Running Club said: “This nine week programme is designed for beginners aged 18 and over who really want to get fitter, both physically and mentally, develop their

running skills, and meet new people.”

Here's what some of the 2019 graduates have said: “I genuinely didn't think I could do it, but the support and friendship from the club got me running... and kept me pushing myself” - Zoe “Truly life changing! I've met inspirational people that will help you achieve once impossible goals” - Gemma “The best thing I have ever done. The support from Birstall RC is amazing and I've made some great friends along the way” - Kajal This course is limited to just 40 places, so if this is for you please contact Mel Snutch via email: dave.snutch@ntlworld.com

Graded Examination classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Lyrical, Acrobatics from aged 2 upwards.

Vocal coaching • Tumbling Skills

Call

0116 2355495

For a

FREE first lesson Hadrian Road, nr Birstall Leicester LE4 2PQ starlighttheatre@me.com

5

6

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

A ROUSING performance of Eric Coates’ ‘Dambusters March’ very nearly raised the church roof at Birstall’s 663 ensemble’s 50th anniversary concert.

Held in St James Church and led by Cynthia Coltman, the concert was well attended and some 12 past members

participated in a performance of light music. They included founder member Andrew Klee who is a violinist with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra; Adrian France, Head of Brass at Newcastle University and Lorraine Deacon, a peripatetic cello teacher. They all attended Longslade school and began their music studies through the County School of

Music.

The concert raised £1,183 fir Help Musicians and Lost Chord, a charity that helps to improve the quality of life for dementia sufferers.

Cynthia Coltman said: “Many thanks to everyone who performed or helped in any way including compère Jane Scott and the group of singers.”

Cinderella a laugh a minute night out Barnes family “Very funny (cheeks sore from laughing) can’t wait for your next performance. Well done everybody” David and ing overcame all the obstacles put in his Leo. way by the Ugly sisters and their mother, The raffle proceeds of £200 have to ensure that he found the been donated to STEPS Charity in Shepbeautiful Princess who had shed. left her glass slipper behind The society’s next production will be at the Ball. Cinderella, “Penny Black”, by Rob Wellington.

Prince Charming and a full This is a farce with adult humour and cast, together with the ditells how Holmes Hardy, the postman, rector, scenery and wardbecame Sherlock Holmes, the world robe members, and others, famous detective. all contributed once again Sue Withers from HATS said: “Come to a successful show. and meet his hilarious, complicated, The four performances unusual family and acquaintances. resulted in lots of audience “This is a very witty, fast paced play participation, with boo’s, that will grab your attention from the hisses, cheers and shouting. very beginning.”

The Ugly Sisters provided a Dates for performances are on April 23, 24 comedic performance that and 25, 2020.

Venue: Birstall Social Club, 16-18 Wanlip would be hard to find anyLane, Birstall LE4 4JS where else.

Tickets: £7, £6 concession.

Audience reviews and Discount for group bookings of 10 or more posts received include the people (price available at time of booking). following: Tickets will be available from mid February 2020. “ Hilarious!! Very funny!!

Box office: 0116 2209594 and Great cast and scenery” 07934204837 Jacqueline Fraser.

Or email hatstickets@hotmail.com.

“Another brilliant funny Face book: www.facebook.com/hatsamdram/ performance. Loved it” The

EVERYONE LIVED ‘happily ever after’ at the conclusion of Highcliffe Amateur Theatrical Society’s production of Cinderella.

The annual pantomime, performed at Birstall Social Club, saw Prince Charm-

Burglary: car stolen POLICE ARE investigating several burglaries that took place on December 17.

On Roman Road a garage was broken into and in another incident on Allington Drive, a house was entered by the keys being hooked out the letterbox, with a car subsequently being taken. It has since been found.

There were also two attempted breakins on Bramley Road and another on Allington Drive but no entry was gained in either of these.

If you have any information about any of these incidents please contact us on 101 or via the Leicestershire Police website.

THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

663 Ensemble’s anniversary concert

Geoff Green was co-opted to fill a vacancy on the council.

A member of the public reported he had been assaulted and robbed on the School Lane playing field after dark and asked the council to consider installing lighting behind the bowling club building.

PC Dave Jaeckels reported that there had been a slight reduction in crimes in November. There have been three burglaries from storage unit at Wanlip Farm. Two vehicles stopped by police were found to contain cannabis.

PC Jaeckels said the robbery on the playing fields was very rare, so far the police have no information and no evidence.

Reports on social media of a man being seen with a gun at Hallam fields turned out to be a false alarm, an investigation revealed there had been a neighbour dispute and one man was arrested for criminal damage.

It was reported that the certificate of completion for the new Hallam Fields community hall had been handed over.

Councillors considered a draft budget/precept for the year 2020/21.

It was agreed to increase the precept by 2%. Suggestions for expenditure included increasing the cash available from the community grant scheme to include suggestions from the public for crime prevention measures; improving the noticeboard outside the Village Hall; public benches, and securing the boundary of the Greengate Lane allotments and the GCR track with fencing.

THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

7

THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

8

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

THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

Community spirit Over the months, you receive various letters regarding dissatisfaction with the Parish Council, lack of support for various projects (individual or group) and general whingeing with the odd comment of praise where due. As an outsider, I find the broad lack of community spirit somewhat strange although with the recent large numbers of new homes (with more to come) complete with residents, I can only suppose it is to be expected.

I was born in a small market town and lived there for some 70 years (with a break of 10 years by) having to find somewhere to live in the nearby new town, before finding a place (with new wife) back in my ‘home town’.

As a fully paid up member of the ‘Apathy Party’ I muddled my way along as you do, moaning about everything from the new fangled electric street lights, ‘slum clearance’ (before suddenly ‘they’ decided that conservation was the way forward) but the final straw was the Government deciding to rip apart ‘our’ town centre by introducing an ‘enhancement scheme’ by bringing in ‘students’ to redesign 6 market towns around the country and the Borough Council joined in by deciding the build a shiny new supermarket on the large town centre car park. That was it! The local press was awash with comments, naturally.

A group of local businessmen took it upon themselves to galvanise residents by producing a town newspaper funded by local advertising – it was a year before the local elections – before calling a public meeting in the March prior to the May elections to find out what the townspeople wanted. About 150 people turned out on a cold wet early March evening and one of the options was to stand as a Town Councillor (remember this was the Conservative heartlands and had been since the year dot) so as I was convinced there would be a number of volunteers, I ticked the box on the form (the look on my wife's face was a picture!). I was called to an interview(?) and greeted with the immortal words ‘so you’re our candidate’.

I’ll just say, once the ball was rolling, 11 of the sitting 13 Councillors were replaced and the steep learning curve of local politics was climbed as I was stupid enough to stand for both Borough

and Town Councils. I was elected in my seat by an overwhelming majority even doing an interview on local radio. The Town Council was changed forever by actually involving residents in the running of the town. The Borough Council actually respected the three main large settlements in the Borough rather than just ignoring them.

I’m afraid the staff did wonder what would happen, but we (new Councillors with business experience) we improved working methods such as doing away with the quill pens (just joking, but only just!) and actually rewriting the Standing Orders to reflect ‘our’ new council methods.

See, it can be done and you can stop moaning because you may be the ones that are moaned about. If you want to know more, then get in touch with me as it’s in your hands and you have time to get an act together.

Norman Cutting norman@berko.org.uk

Public toilets I am not sure exactly why the local toilet facilities in Stonehill Avenue have been closed but like many men in their eighth decade, I lament their closure. I like to support the shops in our village.

How else will we prevent decreasing the number still open in our once thriving Sibson Road shopping area? My wife and I will walk down to the village rather than get into the car and drive to such places as Beaumont Leys. After all we are told such exercise is good for us but I need the reassurance that during my walk there will be easy access to a working toilet. I am sure many other ladies and gentlemen in later years would also like this facility.

I feel it is another nail in the demise of Birstall's once vibrant village centre that Stonehill Ave. toilet block is now closed for "H & S reasons". A local Stonehill Avenue businessman opposite,

when asked why, suggested it was due to vandalism. If this is the case, then I appreciate that there is a limit on the ability of BPC to sustain the cost of repeated repair and maintenance but it is not unusual for a small charge to be made in order to gain entrance to toilet facilities. I make sure that I have the correct change with me when visiting Loughborough Market Place and find it a little price to pay for the happy knowledge that I will not be "caught short". If the presence of a money collection container on an entrance gate is not thought wise, how about a card entrance system.

For a nominal fee of £2 or £3 per year interested residents. prepared like myself to pay, could have regular access when shopping.

I am aware of the toilets at the park but to have to leave off shopping to dash there will not help support our local businesses and I implore BPC to think again about the closure of Stonehill toilet block and reinstate this amenity, albeit with a charge if necessary, as soon as possible.

A retired Birstall shop owner and supporter of Sibson Road's shopping parade (name & address supplied to the Birstall Post) A Charnwood Borough Council spokesperson said: “We are liaising with Birstall Parish Council in order to reopen the public toilets in the village as soon as possible. The parish council is responsible for the maintenance and operation of the toilets but the building is owned by the borough council which also provides some funding for its operation and maintenance.

“Our building control officers inspected a wall close to the toilets which is cracked and while they advised the parish council that it needed repairing, there was no immediate risk and therefore did not require the closure of the facility.”

9

BMX track I read the article in the December issue of The Birstall Post on the proposals for the alterations to the BMX track and have a few queries.

Firstly this will be the second alteration since it was built, so begs the question why it wasn’t properly designed in the first place.

Secondly could the council please tell us how they determine the need for it to be redone? Apparently four youngsters attended a meeting and instantly the alterations are approved.

Thirdly how do the council determine that it is well used? I suspect it is because these four youngsters and the designer say it is. As a twice daily user of the park I can tell you that around 93% of the time its unused, 1% of the time its used by remote control car users and 1% of the time used by kids racing their dogs around it! Just occasionally, say 5% of the time, we see two or three kids on bikes. The only time more than this number of bike users is evident is when the designer is present and even then its only a handful of youngsters.

I would like to see the council provide facilities that benefit a much wider spectrum of the population such as a fitness track that could be used by every generation whether they are bike owners or not or perhaps a footpath for all to use - cost of this would actually be zero as it involves removing a sign stating "No through way for pedestrians" to the track that replaced the footpath and removing two slats of wood blocking the pedestrians from using it from Meadow Lane.

Name & Address supplied to the Birstall Post

Gunns’ gym In response to Mr Carl Gunns’ latest letter (The Birstall Post December issue) Continued on page 10

PALLATT BROS. Ltd Corgi Gas Reg. Installers

www.raktailorhomeimprovements.com

appledore Carpentry & joinery

Carpentry & joinery, kitchens, bedrooms, building work Insured City & Guilds Qualified Please call for a free quotation

• Burglar Alarms • CCTV • Access Control • Fire Alarms

FOR A

FREE SURVEY & QUOTAT ION CALL TO DAY

25 Years Experience • OAP Reduced Rates All Work Guaranteed For All Your Security Needs contact: Kevin O’Connor, Lambourne Rd, Birstall

0781 1391510 0116 3326898 gcrane665@btinternet.com

birstall.alarms@ntlworld.com

Noticeboard all details printed free Birstall Running Club We meet on Monday & Friday at 6.15pm for 6.30pm run from the Pavilion, School Lane Playing Continued from page 9 my proposal that young people could have the chance to experience various forms of wrestling instead of boxing was stated to be ridiculous. Why? I don’t agree with some forms of wrestling but certain forms of wrestling are part of the Olympic Games – is that regarded as ridiculous?

Yes, some time ago, I did praise Mr Gunns for his commitment to the gym but at that time I did not realise all the dangers of boxing. I still very much admire all the time and effort and indeed the use of some of his money in running the gym. That degree of dedication is amazing and worthy of praise but I think directed to the wrong activity or so-called sport.

When watching a news programme on TV one day in October 2019 Suddenly there was a picture of an American boxer – Patrick Day – who had just died four days after being in a fight and suffering a lot of punishment. It was shocking and sad but what was even more shocking was to be told that previously in America in 2019 three other boxers had died after having fights. Yet Mr Gunns imagines rugby, football and motor racing are a lot more dangerous then boxing and that they probably have a lot more injuries. That is possible but did four people die in America in 2019 after taking part in each of those other three sports? I don’t recall hearing of any such tragedies. Anyway injuries in those sports are not caused by opponents punching and trying to hurt each other.

As regards injuries, I can only speak of my personal experience in playing rugby. After the age of eleven I played in many rugby games at school and in a few games in the army during National Service. I played usually in the scrum but in over 100 games I suffered no injuries apart from having a few bruises at times and I don’t remember anyone else having injuries.

As regards Muhammad Ali I have to admit that I was wrong in not realising his physical deterioration was due to Parkinson’s disease. It is not to say however that boxing played no part in his falling prey to that disease. Parkinson’s disease is caused by degeneration of the ganglia at the base of the brain (ganglia are junctions in the nervous system where one set of nerve fibres connect with another set). Those ganglia are no doubt sensitive and vulnerable to injury/damage and it is possible that injuries to his head during the fights caused some damage to them leading gradually to degeneration. We shall never know. There is still much to learn about our brains.

If Mr Gunns were to change the activity at his gym from boxing to those forms of wrestling featured in the Olympic Games then I would support the gym financially.

Mr R J Woods

Fields (showers & toilets available) We also meet on Wednesday at the Sibson Road car park at 6.15pm for 6.30pm run Spadework session also on Wednesdays See www.birstallrc.org.uk for more info or contact us: BirstallRC@gmail.com

Councillor Surgery Last Sat of every month 10 - 11am Robert Dickinson Building, 10 Sibson Road 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

Birstall Food Hub (Food Bank) Food to last a few days for anyone on benefits or low wages.

Email: jackielucas957@hotmail.co.uk

Rothley/Birstall Birdwatching Club Collect Tuesday 10-11.30am from St Theresa’s Church, Front Street, Birstall LE4 4DQ (behind the Earl of Stamford pub) Just phone/text us details (name and how many of you) on 07305 093791 by Sunday evening so we can make sure we have enough for you.

If you’d like to support us, there is a trolley at the back door of the Co-op in Birstall for donations. We can only store non-perishable items, toiletries etc. No fresh produce, please.

Carl Gunns’ Community Gym 18th Birthday Party Birstall Village Hall Sunday Feb 23, 2-5.30pm Admission free All welcome Disco, singers, food To thank everyone for their support of the gym

Birstall Tea Dances St James Birstall Village Hall Birstall Road Leicester LE4 4DH Fridays 3rd & 17th January 2020 3.30 pm - 5.30 pm £4 each Tea / coffee and cakes included All welcomed Further information contact: Jackie 0116 2248278 / 07908607405

Tues Jan 14, at 7pm You are invited to join us at the Palmer-Tomkinson Centre at Cedars Academy, Wanlip Lane, to watch well known professional artist Andrew Geeson giving a demonstration of ‘A Cityscape’ using the wet-into-wet method.

Newcomers and visitors most welcome. Refreshments available at the interval. Demonstration ends at 9pm Members £2; Guests £4.

Free raffle. Ample parking and wheelchair access

Birstall Flower Club Birstall Village Hall 7.15pm, 22nd January 2020

Sports & Social Club

Plumbing & Heating

Birstall Road

Est 1968

The ideal venue for for

211637

New Installations & Upgrades Gas Boilers/Fires Serviced & Repaired LOCAL BUSINESS • CALL GARY ON

Tel: 0116 2692167 Mob: 0792 1703 765

Architectural plans

drawn & submitted for planning permission & building regulations approval Tel: 0116 4105060 / 07974807111 E: info@amlidesign.co.uk W: www.amlidesign.co.uk

David Ives Bsc(Hons) MCIOB FCABE C.Build E. Chartered & Accredited

Birstall & District Art Society

The Midlands Co-Operative

Elliott & Ball General Plumbing Bathrooms & Tiling Landlord Certificates POWER FLUSHING

Tue Jan 14 at 7.30pm A Year In The Life Of A Tour Leader by Neil Glenn Neil, who hails from Nottinghamshire has been a keen birdwatcher since his childhood. He is a freelance journalist and author of the ‘’Best Birdwatching Sites’’ books.

He is also a tour leader with Avian Adventures. He will take us into the life of a tour leader and tell us of his adventures and the trials and tribulations on his many trips.

The Rothley Centre, 12, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley, LE7 7PR. Members free. Visitors £3. There is ample free car parking on site.

New members and visitors are always welcome.

BIRSTALL BARBERS GENTS HAIR SALON

Weddings • Parties Christenings etc Large Function Room with use of Kitchen

Separate bar for that quiet moment

Car Park with CCTV coverage Disabled facilities Mid Week Functions taken Give us a call at Birstall Rd on

HAIR CUTS from £5 SKIN FADE WET SHAVE HOT TOWEL SHAVE HEAD MASSAGE Contact: 0758 8311474

OPEN: Mon-Sat 8am - 6pm Sun & Bank Hols: Closed Appointments not necessary 4 Hannah Parade Birstall LE4 4JE Next to the Post Office

2674059 or 07586 255566 birstallcoop@outlook.com

Trouble with your figures?

Want someone to walk you through a self assessment?

Let me help get your books in shape… & keep them trim

Linda Kimberley-Brooks (ACMA) Final accounts • Self assessment Taxation • Bookkeeping • VAT Payroll • Management accounts www.twyf-accounts.co.uk Email: Linda@twyf.co.uk

Companies & individuals call now on

0116 23 66 345 A friendly service tailored to your needs

THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

10

AGM and Giant Picnic - (dont forget your cutlery and crockery) Contact : Sylvia 0116 2674206 or Mary 07704398017

Open Exhibition 14 Dec 2019 – 25 Jan 2020

available to hire.

For further information please visit the Parish Council Website: www.birstallparishcouncil.org.uk Or telephone the Council offices: 0116 267 6191 Address: Hallam Fields Hall, Hallam Fields Road, Birstall, Leicester, LE4 3LH

Birstall & District Local History Society New Walk Museum & Art Gallery Leicester's Open Exhibition celebrates its 30th year, showcasing contemporary arts and crafts from across the East Midlands. Displays include the outstanding youth category (ages 5 to 19) as well as the adult exhibition. Work featured is available to purchase, all supporting the region’s creative talent Official Opening of the

‘Hallam Fields Hall’

THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

Birstall Parish Council are pleased to announce that they officially opened the new Hallam Fields Hall on 3 January 2020 This wonderful new facility is

Our 2020 monthly talks commence on Thur Jan 9, 2020 starting at 7.30pm in the Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall, Leics.

The subject of the talk is "20th Century Disasters And Tragedies".

Speaker Dr John Sutton 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

about the wildlife found along our waterways. Booking is essential as places are limited. Please visit Eventbrite or call 0116 373 7589 Film Presentations Thurcaston and Cropston Parish “Red Joan” Jan 10 (110 mins) Our first film for the new year is a fantastic true British story of a "Granny spy" played by Dame Judi Dench. As a civil servant after World War 11, she falls under suspicion by the authorities for being a Soviet spy, possibly because she was associating with a Russian Communist. Will she be able to prevent the ultimate destruction of herself as well as her friend?

Canal and River Walk: Watermead Park and Birstall Lock Saturday 18 January, 11am 90 minutes, steady pace Meet at Sainsbury’s on Melton Road Explore Leicester’s canal waterways on this free morning walk through Watermead Park via Birstall Lock. Presented by the Canal and River Trust, you will hear

"Green Book" Feb 14 (130 mins) Another amazing true story will be our biographical comedy drama in February. This film brings to light the racial division in American society during the 1960's. When a club bouncer falls on hard times,

he becomes the concert tour driver for a talented African-American concert pianist. Having won three Oscars and three BAFTA'S, this film is a warm and joyous tale about loyalty and companionship.

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 include refreshments and a lucky prize draw during the interval.

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

Cedar Care Circle Happy New Year everyone. Our next meetings are 6th and 20th of January. Please come and join us for a friendly natter over a cuppa.

We understand how isolating all types of dementia can be for everyone involved. Whether you are caring for a family member or a friend, we offer a listening ear.

Our group really is a circle of friends brought together by the devastating illness that is Dementia. We meet at Ruth's Lambourne Cafe, Lambourne Road Birstall at 2pm. Contact Barbara on 07905760556

Continued on page 13

11

THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

12

As from Tuesday, February 11th I shall no longer be offering a

Careers Service on the third Wednesday of each month at the Lambourne Cafe but switching to be based at the Food Bank at St Theresa's Church on the second Tuesday of each month.

This service will be on a drop-in basis between 10am and 11.15am and will be free to all either on benefits or a low wage income. It will operate on a first come first served basis and will aim to offer careers information, advice and support during the interview.

The service will also be advertised around the village. Do feel free to use it

Neighbourhood Link Neighbourhood Link is a free and easy way of finding out what the Police are doing in your area. It only takes a few minutes to sign up and you can choose what you receive information about. Sign up now at www.neighbourhoodlink.co.uk Mountsorrel Methodist Church Centre Presents the first in the 19th Series of

Sunday Night @ Eight Organ Recitals

ADVERTISEMENT

Continued from page 11

Travel agency opens A TRAVEL Agency is coming to Birstall!

Holiday Lounge was formed 15 years ago in Hinckley by Paul Moss & George Reynolds with a total of three staff - 15 years later it now also has branches in Burbage and Lutterworth and 15 staff, before its latest venture in Birstall, on the Sibson Road parade.

Director George Reynolds said: “The success of Holiday Lounge has been based on offering customers a high level of customer service from experienced and knowledgeable staff, as well as taking an active part of the local community.”

Birstall was chosen as its potential was well known to George who was previously a Director of Tomorrows World Travel, who used to have a shop in the village. George, otherwise known as Ben to many people in the village, was born in Birstall and still has many links here having lived in the village for over 40 years. In that time he played cricket and football for local teams.

Girl donates hair A FIFTEEN year old girl from Birstall has had her hair cut for the Little Princess Trust, a charity that makes wigs for sick children.

Jasmine Fish from Kent Avenue said: “I have been thinking about cutting my hair for a long time, but I never had the guts. I always remember having very long hair when I was younger and I thought how much I loved it, I thought that some little girl would also love it after having treatment and losing her hair. So, I thought to myself, that my hair would grow back anyway so

M&G Plumbing Services All Plumbing & Heating work undertaken

on Sunday 19th January at 8pm Anne De Graeve Leicester Organist Admission is free Donations For Church Development Fund Buffet From 7.30pm

—–––––––––– ESTABLISHED 1830 —–––––––––

THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

57 HIGH STREET, SYSTON LEICESTER LE7 1GQ TEL: 0116 2607500 A FAMILY OWNED FUNERAL DIRECTORS OFFERING A PERSONAL & PROFESSIONAL SERVICE 24 HOURS A DAY FUNERALS ARRANGED IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME OR AT OUR UNIQUE 17TH CENTURY THATCHED COTTAGE PROPRIETOR MR RICK ASTILL, RESIDENT OF BIRSTALL

www.gamblefunerals.co.uk MEMBERS OF SAIF AND NAFD

LET OUR FAMILY LOOK AFTER YOUR FAMILY FOR FREE ADVICE AND GUIDANCE

Woodcock

FARM SHOP

Home Grown Potatoes: White Melody Red Mozart

Sycamore Rd, Birstall

0116 2677905 07834 600384

G E GAMBLE & SONS INDEPENDENT FAMILY FUNERAL DIRECTORS

why not donate it to someone that needs it and would appreciate it.”

Finding sponsors for her hair cut saw Jasmine raise £250 for the charity which was boosted by a further £103 when she completed the 10k ‘Race for Life’.

Pic: Holiday Lounge Director George Reynolds

George said: “I’m now entering my sixth decade working in travel since leaving Longslade school and I believe that despite the changing trends over the years in this very competitive industry, there is no substitute for old fashioned quality service.”

The experienced team in Birstall will include Leah and Sandra who live in Birstall, Kim who used to be the Manager of Tomorrows World Travel and Zoe who has worked at Holiday Lounge for over 10 years.

As well as being agents for a wide range of holiday and cruise operators, Holiday Lounge are able to make bespoke arrangements for individuals and groups, which have included wedding packages, sports tours and arranging for dance academies to perform on cruise ships.

George said: “All arrangements are ABTA and ATOL bonded, giving customers complete financial security and being independent enables Holiday Lounge to give totally impartial advice.

“So for all your travel requirements call into Holiday Lounge and you be assured of a warm welcome!”

Fresh Fruit & Veg Local Honey & Preserves incl Marmalade & Chutney

Horse & Pony Feeds, Goat Feeds, Poultry Feeds, Rabbit Food, Hay Straw & Shavings Manure, Woodchip Mulch, Topsoil we can deliver bulk loads of these items, call or visit for further details

DIY Liveries FIREWOOD: bulk loads delivered

• Re-wires • Fuse Board Upgrades • Extra Sockets & Lighting • New Builds & Extensions • Landlord Safety Certificates/PAT Testing • Garden & Security Lighting • Electric Showers • Burglar Alarm Specialist ALL WORK GUARANTEED For a FREE quote:

07970 893250 Saxon Drive, Rothley, Leicestershire LE7 7SR kevrawson@hotmail.com

Good Quality Dry Logs, Hard & Soft Wood, Coal &Smokeless Fuel, Kindling And lots more!

LOUGHBOROUGH RD, ROTHLEY Tel (0116) 230 2215 James 07802 915559 Fred 0797 7014606 OPENING TIMES Mon-Fri 9am to 6pm Sat 9am to 5.30pm Sun 9.30am to 5pm Please note these times may change during public holidays. Ring us for details.

www.woodcockfarm.co.uk

13

14

GP appointments available online PEOPLE FRUSTRATED at being unable to get an appointment easily at their local GP surgery are being encouraged to book online.

Sara Mitchell from Greengate Medical Centre said: “As part of our primary care network contract requirements, we are obliged to offer a minimum of 25% of appointments to online users.

“During the first week of December, there were 20 online appointments that were unfilled, that are only offered to patients who are signed up for online services. These are offered by the surgery every day.”

She added: “We understand it’s not suitable for everyone to have access online but those that can make use of these appointments will help both the surgery and patients alike.”

Booking an appointment and requesting repeat prescriptions is easy without the need of a phone call once you are

signed up and logged in.

Sara said: “You can even download the NHS app once you have access to online services and this app makes it

even easier to book an appointment for yourself as well as giving you access to lots of helpful health and medical related information.

“At Greengate Medical Centre, we are looking into providing an ‘Online Help Session’ for those who may struggle with technology but would like the opportunity and access that online services allows our patients and we will inform readers of a date in the near future.”

Co-op’s donations TWO LOCAL good causes have benefited from the Co-op’s membership scheme.

Syston & District Volunteer Centre received £6,185 and Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre received £6,690.

1% of purchases made in store by Cop-op members goes to a charitable fund. Last year the Co-op handed over £17m to 4000 local causes.

Our pictures show representatives from each group receiving cheques at the Birstall Co-op store.

GENERAL BUILDING & HOME REPAIRS

Brickwork • Patios Re-pointing Tiling • Plaster Patching • Fencing etc No job too small Friendly Reliable Service Free Quotations • Fully Insured

Tel: 0116 260 7716 Mob: 07770 785400 Email: dave@dave-hutchings.com Website: www.dave-hutchings.com

BIRSTALL AND Wanlip WI met on December 2 for their last meeting of the decade.

I. Wardle Maintenance Services 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

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

We had a really enjoyable social evening with a wonderful British Legion spread, two very absorbing quizzes and lots of chat.

On December 4 some of us went on a coach trip to see the Christmas illuminations at Kew Gardens. It was well worth the long journey to see the amazing light shows.

Our Christmas Party was held on December 10 at Leicester Indoors Bowls Club, a new venue for us. Once again we had a great evening with a really excellent meal.

If you would like to join us, visitors are welcome. Come along to our next meeting at Birstall British Legion on Front Street at 7pm on January 6, 2020 when Elizabeth Scott will talk to us about “Essential Oils for Health and Wellbeing”.

For more information on what we do you can also visit our Facebook Page or the Leicestershire and Rutland Federation’s website.

From Birstall & Wanlip WI

Reg plate thefts POLICE HAVE reported that two vehicles, on Hawthorn Avenue and Ambergate Drive, have had their number plates stolen.

There are 27,000 number plates stolen every year in the UK. Criminals use them to drive from petrol stations without paying, to evade congestion charges or speeding fines and for burglaries.

There have also been reports of tools being stolen from three vans on Northfield Avenue, Worcester Avenue and Malling Close.

THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

DAVE HUTCHINGS

WI’s Christmas party at indoor bowls club

15

Misted up double glazing ?

Replace with new clear sealed units Faulty locks & handles replaced

Surgery’s elf day STAFF AT a Birstall surgery dressed as elves and helped raise £200 for the Alzheimer’s society.

“Elf day was a great success that brought smiles all round from staff, patients and visitors alike” said Sara Mitchell from Greengate Medical Centre.

She added: “Some patients who have loved ones suffering from dementia were very grateful for the leaflets and information we were offering as support.”

Winners of the ‘Guess the name of the Elf’ game and participants of other

Pics: (top) Practice manager Simone Bone with her helper elves Sara and Anita; Patient Participation Group (PPG) volunteers Diane Neishaboori and Karen Heffernan; Dr Gokani, Chief Elf with Caroline, Receptionist

games will be contacted directly to claim their prizes if they win.

Pub’s new coffee from local company

THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

A NEW range of hot drinks is available at The White Horse.

The pub has teamed up with a Leicester coffee roaster who supply them with beans, as well as a range of eight different tea variations and a gourmet hot chocolate.

Charlotte Foy from The White Horse said: “We had noticed the St Martin’s Coffee Roasters as we drive by so we thought we would investigate whether they might be a good local source to improve our hot drinks offering. The range was perfect for us, our staff received expert coffee training by their 'in house' specialist and the collaboration is going excellently.”

The White Horse is in a prime spot for dog walking visitors to Watermead Park and there’s always a dog bowl and

dog biscuit available for four legged customers.

The White Horse is open for hot drinks from 11am daily.

Call Colin Wright for a free quote LOCAL BUSINESS 07765635505 • 01162209573

NHW news

& crime report New Year Resolutions We are at the start of another year and probably have a list of New Year resolutions that we are determined to keep. It is also likely that a quick review of those we made last year will not make optimistic reading. That is no reason to despair, however, and reminding ourselves of the things we should be doing is never a bad idea, especially when they are not that difficult to achieve.

Taking simple precautions to protect ourselves from crime is one of these.

Much of it is simply about getting into the routine of being careful so that it becomes second nature rather than something we have to think about.

Serious and violent crimes can have a devastating effect on victims but we are fortunate that in our villages they are very much the exception rather than the rule. Nevertheless, carrying a simple device like a personal alarm could make a difference in such situations.

If we are unfortunate enough to become victims of crime, most of us will suffer financial loss rather than physical injury. We often hear that possessions can be replaced while our bodies are not so easily repaired but, while this is undoubtedly true, non-violent crimes can still be very distressing for those affected.

Money cannot replace items of sentimental value and fraudsters can leave people in serious financial difficulties by stealing their hard-earned savings.

You can protect your home from burglars by fitting good door and win-

dow locks but these are only effective if you use them every time you leave it unattended. Burglar alarms are a very effective deterrent but only if they are switched on in the first place. Valuables left on show or in drawers can be easy pickings. Consider installing a small safe and using time-switches to make your home look occupied.

Double check that vehicles are locked before you leave them unattended. They are never very secure and thieves have clever ways of overcoming modern electronic locks. Valuable items, especially tools, are attractive to thieves and should be removed to somewhere safer. Remember that cars and vans are definitely not strongboxes.

The most likely method used to try to rob us nowadays is fraud, whether it is by cold callers face-to-face or internet scams. If you suddenly receive unexpected demands for money or your bank and personal details, make sure that your immediate response is to hear alarm bells ringing. The criminals use threats or offers that are just too good to be true to panic us into acting in a way that overcomes our common sense.

Staying aware of the risks and making caution part of our normal behaviour is one of the best resolutions we can make.

Have a Happy New Year.

Visit our next Advice Shop in the Robert Dickinson Building, 10 Sibson Road on Saturday, January 18 between 10am and 12 noon, to see what advice and simple security devices we have available to help keep you safe. Some of them are free.

From Birstall & Wanlip NHW

Crime Report We’ve had a total of 40 crimes reported to us this month, which is slightly down on October when we had 45.

The number of thefts from vehicles has fallen from 11 offences last month to just six this month, however the number of house burglaries has remained the same with four offences

being reported. We have had seven reports of assault, seven reports of criminal damage, eight ‘other thefts’ (including one cycle theft and one theft of fuel from the petrol station) three non-dwelling burglaries and three drugs offences.

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

For further crime information please visit: www.police.uk/leicestershire/NL60/ Crime Prevention Advice Now that the weather has turned much colder we often get reports of vehicles being stolen whilst they have been left defrosting. Thieves will be up and about early looking for vehicles to steal as they know they are often left with the keys in the ignition, making them easy to take: 1) Never leave your car unattended if it is defrosting with the keys in the ignition and the engine running.

2) If you must leave your vehicle running whilst you are clearing the windows etc, ensure that you remain vigilant and on the lookout for people who could jump in and drive it away.

3) Remember to fully clear your windows before you drive off – not just a small patch on the front windscreen!

4) Remember that your insurance is unlikely to pay out if your car gets stolen because you have been negligent and left the keys in it!

Neighbourhood update This month we were made aware that someone had caused damage to the paving slabs on the memorial that is being built on Allington Drive to remember Janet Jasper who sadly died in the gas explosion back in 2017. We have carried out enquiries in the area to try and identify the people responsible for this, but as yet we have been unable to identify them. If you have any information about this, please contact us on 101 or via the Leicestershire Police website, quoting the crime reference 19000619582 as we are keen to find out who was responsible.

A number of good stop checks have also been completed in the village this month, with drugs being found on several occasions. We continue to target drug dealers and users in the village as we know that this has a knock on effect and often fuels other kinds of crime, such as burglary and vehicle thefts.

Planning P/19/2602/2: 11 Curzon Avenue Birstall LE4 4AE single storey rear extension P/19/2525/2: 11 Beechfield Avenue Birstall LE4 4DB Proposed single and two storey extensions to rear of dwelling.

P/19/2498/2: Telecommunications site at A6/ Loughborough Road Birstall Leicestershire Removal of 15m high street furniture style monopole with 3 antennas, 2 cabinets & all ancillary development and installation of 17.5m high street furniture style monopole with 6 antennas, 1 cabinet & all ancillary development P/19/2487/2: 6 Dale Close Birstall LE4 3LE Proposed garage extension to side of dwelling P/19/2440/2: 99 Sibson Road Birstall LE4 4NB Erection of replacement shopfront.

Small Ads Small ads are 25p for the first 16 words. 17-32 words: 50p. Enclosing payment, post your ad to us or hand it in (inside an envelope) at Birstall library.

Trade/business rates for small ads are 25p a word. You are liable for the trade/business rate if you are offering a service for which you are asking for payment, or if you are advertising new goods for sale. All text will be printed bold.

Box outline £1 extra. Max 50 words. Phone numbers count as one word.

VINTAGE CROCKERY hire, for afternoon teas, weddings, parties etc.

Also, Mad Hatters Tea Party props.

Contact Diane on 0744 3476114

The Feb issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Feb 1.

The copy deadline is Jan 17.

Art Classes With INGRID

KLEINS-DANIELS Jan to Apr term 2020 King George Rooms, Woodhouse Eaves

Wed morning class 10.30am till 12.30 (12 weeks starting Jan 8th- £120)

Beginners Drawing & Painting An introduction to all media and various techniques. For those that are setting out on a new interest.

Neighbourhood Link Neighbourhood link is a free and easy way of finding out what the Police are doing in your area. It only takes a few minutes to sign up and you can choose what you receive information about. Sign up now at www.neighbourhoodlink.co.uk

Thurs mornings 10.30 till 12.30pm (12 weeks starting Jan 9th- £120)

From PC 1759 Dave Jaeckels, PCSO 6611 Mark Butler

Advanced Art

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)

Call Ingrid: 07951 911699

Intermediate Art Course Improving techniques in watercolours, pastels, acrylics, mixed media, drawing and painting. For those with some previous experience.

Thurs afternoons 2-4pm (12 weeks starting Jan 9th- £120) For those with previous experience, working on different themes to extend personal interpretation and skills.

Email: ingriddaniels@hotmail.co.uk

THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

16

City to measure pollution Closing after 50 years

LEICESTER IS set to be one of the first cities in the country to study and model locally-based fine particulate pollution (PM2.5) as part of a new project.

BIRSTALL METHODIST preschool is closing after 50 years in the village.

Earlier this year, the city council was awarded almost £250,000 of Government funding to carry out a pilot project to monitor and map the sources of the potentially harmful PM2.5 pollutant in Leicester.

PM2.5 refers to the tiny particles – less than 2.5 micrometres in size – of dust, smoke, pollen and soot that are found in the air we breathe.

Exposure to PM2.5 at high levels, or over an extended period, has been

THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

linked to serious effects on health and an increased risk of developing cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.

Although there are currently no agreed national guidelines for PM2.5 monitoring, the World Health Organisation recommends that levels should not exceed an annual average of 10 micrograms per cubic metre (µ g/m3).

Local levels of PM2.5 are currently only recorded as an urban background level by one automatic monitoring site in the city, located at the University of Leicester. The most recent recorded levels for annual mean were below

11µg/m3.

Leicester City Council is now working with Leicester-based air quality experts EarthSense to carry out a detailed citywide study of the local concentrations and sources of PM2.5 pollutants.

Cllr Adam Clarke, deputy city mayor and executive lead on environment and transportation, said: “We are now recording the lowest levels of nitrogen dioxide we’ve ever seen and are taking action to reduce it further.

“But more needs to be done, particularly around understanding and managing the levels of PM2.5 in the city.

“There is currently no requirement to monitor for this pollutant, but we know that we have the skills and knowledge in the city to take a lead in better understanding PM2.5 and its risk to health.

“We are determined to continue to accelerate the improvements we have seen in recent years and achieve our aim of Healthier Air for Leicester.”

EarthSense is a local company –

based at Leicester’s Pioneer Park – that specialises in the monitoring and modelling of air pollution and provides policymakers and city planners with near real-time insight to support decisionmaking.

Tom Hall, EarthSense Managing Director, said: “As a Leicester-based air quality company, we are delighted to be working with the city council and offering local expertise for this study.

“Our Zephyr® air quality sensors and MappAir® modelling services, coupled with advanced analytics, will be sued to provide clear insight into PM2.5 levels, which will be shared with residents and provide a clearer understanding of the sources of pollution.”

The pilot project will involve the use of eleven of the company’s Zephyr® air quality sensors across the city. Six of these will be placed within Leicester’s existing air quality management area – covering the city centre, main radial roads and outer ring – and one on the A6 on the outskirts of the city.

The remaining four sensors will be mounted on electric cars and bikes to provide mobile readings.

The data collected will help build a clearer picture of the sources of PM2.5 pollution and which parts of the city are most affected. The study will also explore how emissions from wood-burning stoves contribute to citywide PM2.5 levels.

Findings of the study are due to published in late 2020. This will include an interactive map that will provide near real-time local air quality updates, supported by the development of a new smartphone app to make it easy for people to access this information.

In June 2018, the city council declared the whole of Leicester as a Smoke Control Area, under a new Smoke Control Order, to help limit pollution from smoky fuels like coal and wood. This means that people should only use certified wood-burning stoves and burn authorised smokeless fuels within the city boundary.

Under the Clean Air Act 1993, emitting smoke from the chimney of a building in a Smoke Control Area can result a fine of up to £1,000.

There are no smoke control areas in Charnwood so there is no requirement for residents to only burn smokeless fuel.

Joint pre-school leader Michele Williamson said: “It is with a heavy heart that we need to inform you that Birstall Methodist Pre-school closed for good on Friday December 20, 2019.

“The pre-school is at a point unfortunately where it is not a financially stable business. After great discussions with the church group by whom the pre-school is governed by, the decision was made to close the pre-school.

“Staff will endeavour to support families and children to transition to new settings in any way they can.

“The pre-school has been a big part of the community for the last 50 years and it is very sad it is coming to an end. But we are glad your children were able to be a part of a great preschool and its history.

“Can we take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support, we have loved being part of yours and your children’s lives.”

Monday Club news A VERY pleasant evening was had by 20 members of the group at our Christmas party.

It is amazing that, as everybody brings a plate of food to share, there is never anything the same - every year - always different - and always very tasty! We each had a secret Santa parcel and a quiz that massaged our 'little grey cells'!

We will be welcoming in the New Year with our New Year Luncheon, this time at the British Legion on January 13.

Fund raising for our Charity this year, Glebe House, Loughborough, which supports children and adults with special needs, now stands at £937 thanks to the efforts of our members.

The programme for 2020 is taking shape, with a list of speakers and a slide show, (which I know, from experience, will be lovely).

Our meetings are in the Age Concern rooms of the Village Hall, School Lane, on the second Monday of every month at 7.30pm, and should you wish to join us you will be very welcome.

From the St James Monday Group

17

18

Couple’s thirty happy years in village pub IN DECEMBER Tony and Kathryn Marshall celebrated 30 years behind the bar of their much-loved pub, Thurcaston’s The Wheatsheaf Inn and they are loving it as much today as the day they put their names above the door.

On December 4, 1989, Tony and She added: “Running a pub becomes Kathryn first took over the tenancy at part of you. I think the day you wake up The Wheatsheaf Inn. They thought they and it feels like a drag - that’s the day would only be there for a few years but you need to pack it all in.”

30 years on they still love owning a pub “To tell you the truth,” says Tony, "I business and have created a pub that can’t imagine a time when it ever will.” has become a fixture of the local comTony heads up front of house and has munity. built a reputation for quality cask ales “I admit it’s hard work” said Kathryn, and Kathryn prides herself on serving “but we still do it because we still love it. home cooked meals and hosting the We love the pub and we love our custom- many events and occasions that take ers. It’s not just a job to us - it really is place at the pub. Their three children a way of life.”

Andrew, William and Katie have also helped in the business over the years.

“We would like to say a big thank you to all our regulars and staff, for their support over the years. We are so lucky to have such a wonderful community and to have met so many great and interesting people who’ve been there for us through the good and bad times. It is ultimately down to our customers and community that we have enjoyed our time here at The Pic: Tony and Kathryn Marshall at the Wheatsheaf Inn Wheatsheaf Inn - we can’t thank them An old tale says that the pub once caught years. enough” said Kathryn. fire and that the fire was extinguished You can find out more about The The Wheatsheaf Wheatsheaf Inn on their Facebook page using the beer! The pub was thatched Inn was built in the https://www.facebook.com/WheatsheafTh until 1929 and the Wright family from 1600's and was forurcaston Thurcaston held the tenancy for 105 merly a coaching inn.

Stunning wreaths made at club BIRSTALL FLOWER Club held their Christmas wreath making workshop at the beginning of December.

The club supplied all the requirements to make a personalised door wreath for over 70 local people, many of whom were first timers.

“Every wreath was a masterpiece and no two were alike” said a spokeswoman.

The club’s next meeting is on January 22 for the AGM and “Giant Picnic”.

Pic: Attendees of the Christmas door wreath making workshop in the Village Hall

Extra Points Alarms Rewiring Security Lighting Electrical Testing Part P Registered

Control Electrics Ltd Lodgewood Ave, Birstall, Leicester

Tel: 0116 2682910 FREE ESTIMATES

Motorbikes ridden dangerously THE POLICE are appealing for information about motorbikes being ridden dangerously in the village.

riders, so if you have any information as to who is using them, please contact us via 101 or via the Leicestershire Police Website. Any information received will be treated with confidence.”

Birstall PC Dave Jaeckels said: “The off-road bikes have been ridden through alleyways on the Hallam Fields Estate and have also been ridden at speed on Sibson Road. They have no registration plates and have been ridden in a dangerous manner. We are keen to identify the

TWO MEN ran away from a homeowner when he discovered them on his property on Field Leys Way in Birstall at 3.50am on December 9.

A police spokesman said: “Luckily no offences appear to have been committed

and we have not received any reports of burglary or thefts from vehicles, but clearly they were up to no good. Please ensure that you are locking your doors and windows and securing your car as thieves are clearly still active in the area.”

The Feb issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Feb 1.

The copy deadline is Jan 17.

THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

ALL TYPES OF DOMESTIC & INDUSTRIAL WORK

News from the churches

Dietary advice BIRSTALL RESIDENT Cindy Woolley is a HCPC UK registered Dietician who has recently set up her freelance business, providing evidence based dietary advice for a range of health conditions tailored to individual needs.

Cindy currently works as an NHS Community Dietician based in Nottinghamshire, but also practices freelance one day a week. Cindy said: “I love what I do and will go out of my way to support individuals to make dietary and lifestyle changes to benefit their health.”

She added: “My role within the NHS means I see a wide variety of patients, many with long term health conditions. One of the areas I feel very passionate about is IBS, where I have experienced first-hand the dramatic effect this can have on an individual’s quality of life. I am trained in both 1st and 2nd line IBS dietary management, which includes the Low FODMAP diet which evidence has shown could improve symptoms by up to 70%.”

Some of the other areas Cindy covers in her freelance work include Weight Management, Coeliac Disease, Diabetes, COPD, Dementia, Heart Health and Nutritional Support for unintentional weight loss.

To find out more about the role of a dietician and to access useful food fact sheets, go to www.bda.uk.com.

You can also follow Cindy on facebook or twitter by searching cindy woolley rd.

Roy Morris THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

Plumbing and Heating Installation, Upgrades & Servicing Of Gas Cookers, Boilers and Fires

Servicing of Boilers £35 General plumbing, shower & bathroom installs. Tiling & electrical work also undertaken

Landlords – don’t forget your Safety Certificates: from £45 Call now for a FREE no obligation quote

0116 2841076 / 07860 551820

THE CHURCHES of St. James, Birstall, 3-4. This is a fun club where we have and Our Lady and St. Nicholas, Wanlip, crafts, games and other activities availaare now entering an interregnum, ble for children. A parent or carer must following the departure of our Rector, be present, and refreshments are availaVince Jupp, as he takes up his new ble. It would be wonderful to see you post as Diocesan Transition Enabler. there in the New Year After nearly nine years with us, he Coffee Shop and Sheryl were given a grand 'send-off' The Coffee Shop continues to be a which will be remembered for a long popular part of the community life in time to come.

Birstall. It runs Tuesdays-Saturdays from However, with the help of our 'retired' 10-12 with tea, coffee and delicious clergy and visiting priests, the work and cakes. Why not come along and enjoy a worship of the churches carries on. tasty treat and relaxing with friends old Worship is not, however, confined to the and new? buildings of the churches. There are Lunch Club many home groups who meet in each Every Wednesday we host our lunch other's houses to explore and deepen club. For £6.50 a home cooked meal, their faith through discussion and prayer pudding and tea or coffee is provided. A and share friendship, fellowship and Minibus may be able to pick you up food. The more intimate and informal from home at an additional cost of surroundings can be more conducive to £2.50. Contact Mary 07928864586 for sharing feelings and prayer, and improve more information.

From Birstall Methodist Church confidence, than in a larger, more formal setting such as church.

ALL AT BIBC wish you a very Happy The sharing of food is quite special, New Year and we hope that you will and Julie Ward and helpers at Wanlip know the Lord’s blessings throughout Community Hall welcome all comers on 2020. the third Tuesday of every month for Sunday services 'Old Nick's Coffee Shop' with tea and We will be meeting for worship each coffee and delicious home-made cakes Sunday at 10.45am at the Cedars Acadeand scones in a warm, relaxed atmosmy (LE4 4GH) in Room PT1. Graham phere - a place to meet friends old and Bunkall will be leading the services, connew (from 10.00 a.m. to 12 noon). tinuing his studies from John’s Gospel, Wanlip Hall will also be host to a Burns except for the visiting speaker on 19th Night Supper on January 25 and tickets who will be John Todd (Loughborough). are £20.20 (which includes wine) and There is a children’s meeting available are available from Julie and John Ward on 0116 2677600 (places are, obviously, during these services.

Evington Winter Lectures limited).

The fourth lecture at Evington Chapel St. James Social Committee have two (LE5 6FH), in the series ‘The Gospel events lined up for the new year. There will be a film night on January 24, show- [good news] of the Grace [unmerited ing 'Fisherman's Friend', which is free to favour] of God’ (Acts 20:22), is on Saturday January 25 at 7pm when Roland enter, with light refreshments, and on Burrows (Cradley Heath, West Midlands) February 28 there will be a talk by Sue Ablett on 'Japan - Land of the Rising Sun' will speak on ‘The Gospel in the Wilderness’. Recommended books are for sale in Wanlip Hall, entrance £5, to include (at reduced prices) at each lecture and wine/juice and nibbles. two have proved very interesting. Both From Birstall Parish churches have the same title - The Gospel in Genesis - but each author provides a different ‘Happy Hour’ emphasis. Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones (1899Happy Hour is an after school club that runs every Tuesday for children who 1981, minister of Westminster Chapel, London for 30 years) guides readers attend local primary schools between through portions of chapters three to 12 and examines questions such as: Why am I the way that I am? Why is life so hard? Is there any hope? He takes us from the fall of man to the faith of Abraham. The other author, Rev. Henry Law (1797-1884, Dean of Gloucester from 1862 until his death) surveys pictures of the Lord Jesus Christ throughout the whole book. There is the example of the Ark, where safety is only to be found in Christ, to others which are less obvious. Admission to these meetings is free and all are welcome.

(A lift is available to reach the lecture room.)

Enquiries about BIBC: please ring 0116 221 4883.

From Birstall Independent Baptist Church

I am sure like me, you have had a busy 19 December with many activities and journeys along the way.

I am always amazed at how much longer it takes to get to a destination during this month and yet we get there. It reminds me of the fantastic Christmas production we held at the Birstall Village Hall. Firstly, thank you for supporting our Christmas production. I am sure you will agree that not only was it fun but the message shared stuck a note with everyone. I am not sure where you are in your life journey but you can find hope, peace and happiness through Jesus Christ. We celebrate across every nationality the birth of Jesus. This time of celebration reminds us not only of the arrival of a baby boy born to save the world but most importantly it reminds us that God gave his only Son and if we believe in Him we will have eternal life.

That’s a journey destination worth looking forward to. Here at TLC we want to help you on this journey and we would love to meet with you and your family or friends.

There is a place for you. Its where you belong. If you want to know more or would like to meet with our pastoral team then email andre.timothy@trinitylifechurch.org.uk or go to www.trinitylifechurch.org.uk/Birstall or join us at our Sunday Service each Sunday at the Village Hall from 11am.

So what can you look forward to in 2020. We believe that you are loved by God and before you were born he had a plan to prosper you. The Bible teaches us that Jesus Christ is the way the truth and the life. That means coming into a personal relationship with him. Perhaps you haven’t been to church for a while or you have been disillusioned by a past event or never been told about how much God loves you.

This is your opportunity. We invite you to join us for just one Sunday. It will be a life changing experience for you. So what can we offer you. Starting February 2020 we are having our second Alpha Group. This is your opportunity to engage and find out more about the Christian faith and questions you may have. Want to know more or get involved then contact me.

Life in Trinity Life Church offers many opportunities and we would love to see you visit our Sunday service or one of the other events we host during the week or month.

Sunday Services: every Sunday at the Birstall Village Hall from 11am till 12:30pm for all ages. Includes an interactive Kids program, great praise and worship and inspiring teaching.

KIDS HUB – following the successful launch we are going ahead with hosting a regular KIDS HUB for 5 to 11yrs at the Village Hall. We will be at the Village Hall each Thursday evening from 6pm till 7pm.

Life Groups: are held on a Thursday at local homes and you are more than welcome to join one.

From Trinity Life Church

Abel camps SHOPPERS AT the Co-op store in Birstall and Groby who use their membership card will be supporting Abel Camps later this year.

Abel Camps take physically disabled children from around Leicester on a week’s camping holiday to Wales every July.

Abel Camps have been chosen to receive funding in the Co-op Local Community Fund between October 27, 2019 & October 24, 2020.

For every Co-op product purchased 1% goes to Abel Camps.

Birstall BAG’s cancer corner Ovarian Cancer There are around 7500 cases of Ovarian Cancer each year in the UK. It is a very treatable cancer with 35% of those diagnosed living over 10 years. Is thought that 11% of case are preventable and thankfully the incidence rates are slowly decreasing. Ovarian cancer is when abnormal cells in the ovary begin to grow and divide in an uncontrolled way, and eventually form a growth (tumour).There are different types of ovarian cancer. The type depends on the type of cell the cancer started in. Most cases of ovarian cancer are epithelial cancers. This means the cancer started in cells covering the ovary or fallopian tubes. Doctors now think that most epithelial cancers start in cells at the end of the fallopian tubes rather than the ovary.

Epithelial ovarian cancer is the most common type of ovarian cancer. Primary peritoneal cancer and fallopian tube cancer are similar to epithelial ovarian cancer and are treated in the same way.

Rare types of ovarian cancer include germ cell tumours (teratomas), stromal tumours (granulosa tumours) and sarcomas.

Symptoms The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be very vague, particularly when the disease is in its early stages. See your doctor if you have any of these signs and

symptoms: • feeling full quickly • loss of appetite • pain in your tummy (abdomen) or lower part of your abdomen that doesn't go away • bloating or an increase in the size of your abdomen • needing to wee more often Other possible symptoms • tiredness that is unexplained • weight loss that is unexplained • changes in your bowel habit or symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, especially if this starts after the age of 50.

Risk Factors Your risk of developing ovarian cancer depends on many things including age, genetics, lifestyle and environmental factors. As with most cancers, the risk of developing ovarian cancer increases as you get older. It's most common in women aged between 75 and 79. Between 5 and 15 out of 100 ovarian cancers (5 to 15%) are caused by an inherited faulty gene.

Inherited genes that increase the risk of

ovarian cancer include faulty versions of BRCA1 and BRCA2. Faults in these genes also increase the risk of breast cancer.

Having relatives with ovarian cancer does not necessarily mean that you have a faulty inherited gene in the family. The cancers could have happened by chance.

But women with a mother or sister diagnosed with ovarian cancer have around 3 times the risk of ovarian cancer compared to women without a family history.

You have an increased risk of ovarian

cancer if you've had breast cancer in the past. The risk is higher in women diagnosed with breast cancer at a younger age, and those with oestrogen receptor negative (ER negative) breast cancer.

Women who had bowel cancer at a young age have an increased risk of ovarian cancer compared to the general population. Using HRT after the meno-

pause increases the risk of ovarian cancer. In the UK, 4 in 100 (4%) ovarian cancers are linked to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) use. Smoking can increase the risk of certain types of ovarian cancer such as mucinous ovarian cancer. The longer you have smoked, the greater the risk. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classify asbestos as a cause of ovarian cancer. Having excess body fat is linked to an increase in risk of ovarian cancer.

Getting Diagnosed There is no screening available for ovarian cancer. If you have any signs or symptoms that you are concerned about please see your GP who will refer you for further investigations if necessary.

For more information:www.cancerresearchuk.org Or contact:- University Hospitals of Leicester Cancer Information Centre on 0116 258 6189 For more information on the funds we have raised, projects we support and forthcoming events see www.birstallbags.co.uk or look us up on facebook - Birstall BAGsContact the BAGs by email birstallbags@hotmail.co.uk

THE BIRSTALL POST YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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

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

editor@birstallpost.co.uk www.birstallpost.co.uk

• Sales, Repairs & Upgrades • Wired & Wireless Networking • Branded & Custom Built PCs • Laptops, printers, peripherals & accessories • Server Installation & Support • On-site Maintenance & Remote Support • Original & Compatible Cartridges/Toners • Buy Dell products through our store

Specialist Wedding Gown Cleaning Open: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri: 9-5pm Wed & Sat: 9-1pm

Covering Leicestershire

0116 2672583 Mob: 0796 7 191975

www.ntlcomputers.co.uk 3 The Meadway, Birstall LE4 4NG

THE BIRSTALL POST JAN 2020

20