Birstall Post (441) April 2020

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

APRIL 2020

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 441

Volunteers rally round to help BIRSTALL PEOPLE are pulling together to help their neighbours and those most at risk from the coronavirus.

Birstall Gala cancelled BIRSTALL GALA 2020, planned for June 20, has been cancelled due to the Coronavirus.

The event is organised by Birstall Parish Council. Clerk to the council Sue Coulson said: “Due to the Coronavirus epidemic and the Governments advice on mass gatherings, it is with deep regret that the Parish Council has taken the decision to cancel this year’s Gala scheduled for 20 June 2020.”

All parish council meetings scheduled for April 2020 have also been cancelled, which includes the Annual Parish Meeting on 20 April 2020. The Annual Parish meeting is not a Council meeting, but rather is a meeting of local government electors registered for the area for

As government restrictions were tightened in mid March, resident Rosie Rollings posted on Facebook appealing for volunteers to come forward that would be willing to help others if the need arose.

Within five days she had over 800 members join and every house in Birstall and Wanlip has now had a card through the door with a contact number to call for those needing help.

Rosie said: “The people of Birstall have once again shown their amazing community spirit, with hundreds offering to help people who are self isolating by picking up shopping or urgent supplies, making a friendly phone call,

Continued on page 2 Pic: the team preparing cards for posting

posting their mail or perhaps walking the dog.“ Rosie now has a team of five admin running the Facebook group Helping Our Community LE4 Birstall.

She said: “We worked for hours collating names and addresses and contacts and every day we receive more offers of help.

“Small teams in an area have set up WhatsApp groups, to make sure the support is there. Many of these have made friendships with people that will last way past this.

“We have had requests for help finding items, nappies baby milk gluten free food and collecting prescriptions, and walking a dog. I don't think we have failed to find Continued on page 2

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Volunteers continued from page 1 the required items, easy when you have over 1600 eyes looking.

“The group has brought the whole community together, someone asks for help and the response is amazing. Contacts can use the page to ask for help finding items and I am staggered by the number of responses.

“People are suggesting ideas to keep the spirits up. Sitting in your front garden at a specified time, children sending pictures, sending photo cards even a DJ offering to stream music so we can have a virtual party.

“I honestly feel that the elderly lonely and vulnerable in our community will forge friendships that they will maintain.

Many have called the contact and just had a chat, some have sent a thank you card.

“Shreekant Raivadera has done all of the printing free of charge he is truly amazing and saved us a fortune, Ruth at Lambourne café has offered Tea and

biscuits to front line Emergency services, despite the café being closed. The offers of help just keep coming.”

The group can also offer support with translation to those whose first language is not English and has set up special arrangements for the deaf and blind.

If you can’t get on Facebook you can call the group on 07823 349658.

Coronavirus: Information for those in need of advice and support.

• For the latest government advice www.gov.uk • ‘Helping our Community LE4 Birstall’ on Facebook for help with shopping, urgent supplies, prescriptions, dog walking, friendly voice: (07823) 349658 • Support local shops: your corner shop might have the item you’re looking for • Age UK Leicestershire and Rutland helpline (0116) 299 2278

Birstall golf club’s flexible membership BIRSTALL GOLF CLUB increased its membership in 2019, bucking the current trend.

It introduced flexible membership in 2018 in a scheme administered by Play More Golf and was recognised as the most successful club in the Midlands in 2019 and fourth in the UK overall.

The club’s development director John Meacham said: “While this was a great achievement by the club we were equally excited by the number of full playing members we attracted at a time when the trend in the industry generally was far from encouraging. Our 2020 initiative aims to build on the success of 2019.”

The club has launched a membership and dining drive for April and May, with the emphasis on flexibility.

John said: “The world of golf continues to change and it is vital golf clubs respond accordingly. Increasingly the club has been seen as part of the local Birstall community in recent times and this is something we will be encouraging going forward, particularly when it comes to enjoying our lovely dining room for coffee and lunch.

“The all encompassing Gala continued from page 1 which it is held. This meeting can be held between 1 March and 1 June, however, because there is no timescale for how long this epidemic will last and the unprecedented circumstances surrounding the epidemic, Birstall Parish Council are waiting for further advice and information from the Government on whether Local Town and Parish Councils will be released from this restriction.

The Parish Council intend to complete and circulate the Annual Report to all residents in the local press.

Sue said: “It is regrettable that these actions have been taken, but these matters are outside the control of the Parish Council and the health and safety for all is paramount and because there are no guarantees on how long this epidemic will last, sensible measures have to be taken so that the risk is reduced for all concerned.”

nature of full membership still holds great appeal among the golfing fraternity.

However a new generation of golfers is coming through and due to work and family commitments prefer a more flexible and lower cost approach while still being able to play in certain competitions, enjoy the social side at a club and savings in the bar and dining room.”

Flexible membership of the club costs £325 per year.

John added: “What we are seeing is the ongoing evolution of Birstall golf club enabling not only golfers to use our facilities and great course but also the local community enjoying a lovely Sunday lunch, our lunch club for senior citizens and their friends and regular attractions such as quiz nights and summer barbecues.

“This 2020 initiative is the latest step in the continuing development of the club as an important part of Birstall and the surrounding communities.”

Full information on membership of Birstall golf club and what it offers to the local community can be obtained by following the club on Facebook or by contacting the club’s general manager Jo Sheppard on (0116) 267 4322 or manager@birstallgolfclub.co.uk

The May issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on May 2.

The copy deadline is Apr 17.

THE BIRSTALL POST APR 2020

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PHOTOS: NICK LINNETT

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Boxing gym’s 18th birthday bash CARL GUNNS’ community boxing gym held a party in Birstall Village Hall to celebrate the gym’s 18th anniversary.

Hundreds of people attended, gym members and their parents, to enjoy music food and a slice of birthday cake.

The award-winning gym on Birstall Road has 250 members and is open Monday to Friday from 4:30 pm and on Sunday mornings (currently closed due to coronavirus).

Carl said: “It was a great turnout, I’ve had brilliant support from the parents, I really have the best parents in the world

supporting my gym.”

Parent Donna Jordan said: “Carl had a lovely day and loves all the children who attend his gym and loves to show his appreciation. He also massively appreciates the parents. Carl is and always will be a massive part of many children’s memories of growing up. A lovely generous honest and happy man who gives, gives, gives.”

Carl (74) has been involved with boxing for 62 years, as a fighter, matchmaker, manager and trainer, opening his Birstall gym in 2002.

“It’s the top achievement of my life, this gym” he said. “It’s had good support from the community and is known all over the country now, that’s all down to the members. I hope to continue for a long time to come!”

Pics: (top & right) Carl with parents & children at the birthday celebration

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Pic: the team celebrate their victory

Birstall victors in close match BIRSTALL RUGBY Club’s Midlands Junior Vase Final vs Clee Hill RFC of Shropshire took place at the Coop Sports Ground on Saturday March 14, just before the cancellation of sporting fixtures as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Both teams, top of their respective leagues at the start of the day had progressed through several rounds, taking them to all corners of the Midlands in order to reach the final, which Birstall won 13-12.

Birstall, playing into the wind kicked off and saw early phases of possession fail to materialise into points as Clee Hill’s defence stood firm. Clee Hill initially having the upper hand in the scrum but the Greendog pack were on top in open play. This pressure from the Birstall forwards with ball in hand lead to the first Clee Hill mistake as they gave away a penalty in their own half. Birstall Co-captain Zack Minton pointing to the posts, however Fly-Half Kieran Warner saw his effort marginally miss left.

Birstall’s movement of the ball lead to several half chances,

first to Rhys Chivers followed by Adam Ord and Ryan Exley but once again some excellent defence and covering tackles from the visitors left Birstall frustrated.

The Greendogs were however the first to put points on the board through Dan Riley who from distance and into the wind saw his penalty sail through the posts following a Clee Hill infringement.

This gave Birstall the initiative and they continued to put Clee Hill under pressure. Some great attacking play set up the ball 5m from the tryline and after some well worked forward play, back rower Ryan Brown managed to force his

way over the whitewash to score the first try of the game. Riley converting.

Clee Hill looked dangerous on the counter attack and were not afraid to run the ball from deep. On two occasions their centre and winger got outside the Birstall backs only for good covering tackles thwarting their attempts. Half Time score 10-0 Birstall.

Birstall were buoyed by their first half performance and looked to put the game to bed early in the second half, however Clee Hill had other ideas. In contrast to the first half Clee Hill were now the ones dominating possession.

Some strong running lines and strong set piece put Birstall under pressure again and again.

Birstall’s job got harder in the 48th minute as Fly-Half Warner was shown a yellow card for a deliberate knock on as Clee Hill had numbers out wide.

Warner looked a frustrated figure as he walked to the sideline. With the man advantage Clee Hill looked to get back in the game however some resolute defence kept them at bay.

Birstall thought they had weathered the storm as they returned to 15 men, only to have a second player sent to the bin within seconds. Winger and top try scorer Rhys Chivers being shown a yellow for the same reason Warner had 10 minutes earlier. This time the referee felt this had prevented a certain try and made his way to the posts to award Clee Hill a penalty try.

With the score now 10-7 the game became a tense affair with both side making mistakes and the game lost some of its fluidity. A series of set pieces

were swapped between the teams, one of which set Clee Hill up for an attacking opportunity, with numbers out wide Clee Hill scored in the corner despite Birstall’s best defensive efforts making the score 10-12. Crucially the conversion was missed meaning Birstall were still within a penalty of the lead.

With six minutes to go Birstall didn’t give in and were able to enter the Clee Hill half for the first time in a while. A strong couple of scrums set the Greendogs up in the centre of the pitch, a Clee Hill infringement leading to a penalty just left of the posts. With the eyes of the crowd on him Riley stepped up to kick the points giving Birstall a 13-12 lead.

The final few minutes were mainly played in the middle of the pitch. With the clock running down Clee Hill conceded a penalty on half way, with the referee indicating time was up replacement fly-half Tom Knott sent the ball into the onlooking crowd as the full time whistle blew. Cue scenes of celebration from all around.

While it may not have been the try fest many were expecting, it was a high quality game of rugby played by two very even teams. Both sides will feel they deserved

it and in the end it was only a point separating them. Credit to Clee Hill who were by far the strongest side to have visited the Coop this year and despite their loss were fantastic guests, even joining the Birstall Boys for several sing a longs in the bar afterwards.

As Midlands Junior Vase winners, Birstall will now face the Northern Junior Vase winners Leeds Corinthians for a place in the RFU Junior Final at Twickenham.

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1950 home garden suburb: plans approved PLANS FOR the 1950 home Broadnook Garden Suburb north of Birstall were approved by Charnwood Borough Council in February.

The site lies between Birstall and Rothley and occupies 204 ha. 15 ha have been allocated for employment land, and 16% of the homes (312 in total) will be affordable.

The plans committee at Charnwood

but they won’t be ready for a long time after development starts.”

Councillor Hartshorn told the planning committee Rothley’s concerns were about the capacity of the new access island and Rothley crossroads to cope

Pics: (top) the site location; (left) a view of Broadnook Centre; (below) typical street scenes

restaurants, supermarkets and community hall • a site of four plots for show people The developers will be required to pay £30.5 million to mitigate the impact of the development as part of a section 106 agreement.

This includes £8.3 million for a new primary school £6.8 million for the Cedars Academy for 378 extra school places £1.1 million for healthcare (to create additional capacity at Greengate Medical Centre and Birstall Medical Centre)

THE BIRSTALL POST APR 2020

voted unanimously to approve both an with the extra traffic, the impact on outline planning application for the Rothley’s healthcare facilities and its whole site and a detailed application for phase one of the development which will school.

The scheme has been put forward by see 193 homes built. the Palmer-Tomkinson trust, Cooper Work on the development will not family, Barwood homes, and Davidson’s start until the highways work has been homes. completed. The development will be The development will be run by a served by a new signal controlled roundcommunity trust as a garden suburb, about on the A6.

The only representative from the local like the one in Bournville, Birmingham.

The trust will manage the entire site area to attend the planning committee including the sports facilities, green and speak objecting to the application spaces and community buildings. The was the chairman of Rothley Parish scheme includes: Council Percy Hartshorn.

• A 630 capacity primary school He said: “This development is going • A 175 Unit retirement village with a to have a serious effect on our facilities 70 bed care home and there are no measures proposed to • Parkland and allotments mitigate the impact on Rothley – it’s • Sports facilities including pictures, terrible really. tennis courts and the bowling green “It will be a separate village, with • A village centre with shops, cafés, some of its own facilities, like the school,

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THE BIRSTALL POST APR 2020

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School wins award A BIRSTALL school has won an award for its work.

THE BIRSTALL POST APR 2020

ALP Birstall is based in the old Stonehill high school building and provides education for young people aged 6 to 19 years with special educational needs – they may be on the autistic spectrum, with Asperger’s syndrome, ADHD, have challenging behaviour or complex needs.

The school was a winner at the Leicestershire Live Innovation awards 2020, which aims to recognise the brightest ideas and best new technologies in the region.

Julie Rawle, headteacher at ALP, said: “We are so proud to have won this award.

It is a testament to the hard work of my staff team and their consistent and resilient approach to supporting our young people.”

The school has 35 learners on the roll, and teaches one-to-one or in small groups.

It provides vocational educational packages to engage the learner – construction, creative crafts, hairdressing, cookery and music.

They have created their own outdoor forest school and deliver angling courses to improve concentration.

ALP has its own careers guidance and organises work experience.

Among other winners on the night were a Leicestershire company that designs a product to keep household goods smelling fresh and the creators of a school book for children impregnated with seeds that children can plant.

A lifetime achievement award went to Thurmaston’s Cooke optics. It manufacturers lenses for the film industry and has been championed by directors Ridley Scott and Martin Scorsese.

Pic: (Ctr) Julie Rawle, Head Teacher, with David Cowell, Managing Director & Kate Shaw Assistant, Head Teacher

Girl donates hair for cancer charity 18 YEAR OLD Nikayah Dhanak of Birstall had her haircut for the Little Princess Trust.

Nikayah, of Loughborough Road, had 15 inches of her hair cut to donate to the charity, which makes wigs for children having treatment for cancer.

Hair salon Hayle & Marsh in Thurmaston cut and styled Nikayah’s hair.

Pic: Nikayah Dhanak after her charity haircut

YOUR SAY...

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Noticeboard all details printed free

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.

Coronavirus:

The Birstall Post

This may be the last printed copy of The Birstall Post for a while, although it is my intention to continue printing during this crisis as long as government Kinchley Lane restrictions allow and it remains practical to do so.

Kinchley Lane Rothley is an amazing The Birstall Post is delivered by volunplace locally, used by many to walk dogs, teers, but starting with the April issue, I take a stroll and enjoy the scenery and plan on using a mail delivery business to views of the reservoir. Unfortunately deliver door-to-door. others use this area in Charnwood to This arrangement will continue until race cars, take drugs and engage in low the crisis is over, or restrictions on level criminality which is to the detrileaving your home are loosened. ment to the wider public and also some If it becomes impossible to deliver local residents.

I am trying to police this issue howev- door-to-door I plan to leave printed er apparently it’s been the status quo for copies available to pick up at local food year and won’t ever change, a view that I shops.

If it becomes impractical to print, the refuse to accept. I need locals who use paper will be available to read online. this area to provide me with evidence of It is heartening to see our community how this behaviour of the few impacts pulling together in these difficult times. on their enjoyment of this open space.

The aim of the Birstall Post is to inform Have you been to Kinchley Lane and people about the activities and achieveexperienced any of the above activity ments of their friends and neighbours, which has put you off coming back or to tell them about opportunities to meet, do you have a view based on any third play sport and socialise in clubs and party reports known to you? societies, and report the news about If you have any evidence that may developments, new facilities and investassist me in my long term quest to deal ment in our area. All this helps people with this unacceptable situation could make connections and fosters communiyou please email me with a summary of ty spirit, something which has always your experience and a contact phone been there and which we can see people number so I can get in touch. drawing on in these difficult times. I’m mark.botte@leicestershire.pnn.police.uk sure this experience will only deepen Police Inspector Mark Botte that spirit.

Charnwood Neighbourhood Policing I send my best wishes to all readers.

Jerry Jackson

Bowls

There's been nothing like this since the war, which my good lady and I are far too sprightly to remember. The world has truly turned up-side-down. In any other year I would be telling you what a fantastic, sociable, healthy and fun game bowls is and how our green is looking flawless, beautifully tended, conditioned and ready to play on. All of this is true of course but like many, many activities up and down the country, everything is suspended until further notice.

So watch this space, as soon as the all clear is sounded we will get back into action.

Over the winter we have made many improvements to our club house which is now a really attractive venue to hire – when normal life gets going again that is.

We have added more heaters, various other improvements have been made and the place has been tastefully redecorated. This was all made possible by generous grants from Charnwood Bor-

(Editor and publisher, The Birstall Post)

Blue Air My name is Bernadette Gibson, and I live in Wanlip Lane. I went into self isolation yesterday (March 17) with my husband Chris Gibson, which could be for three months or more. My husband is a singer/songwriter musician and I am a poet so we have plenty to keep ourselves occupied with during this time.

I would be grateful if you could publish one of my poems, it is called Blue Air, and it has already been published.

It was also one of two of my poems that were selected for display with other poets work at Leicester University for International Women's Day in 2018. It is a nature poem and I hope it will bring comfort to whoever reads it during this time.

Bernadette Gibson Blue Air Free, weightless time lightened

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

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 mind quietened.

Time shifted air scented Bluebells.

I found myself in song.

Song.

In myself found I. Bluebells scented air shifted time quietened mind lightened time.

Weightless, free.

Centre parking Greengate Medical Centre would like to remind all residents that parking is very limited at the surgery. The parking spaces provided are strictly for our patients to use and only during their appointment times within the surgery. We are having increasing issues with parking including parking outside of the designated spaces, abuse of the bays specifically for Blue Badge holders as well as to staff, blocking of Doctors vehicles, road rage and damage to the property as a result of the volume of people trying to park.

We have also noted that there are some members of the community who are parking within the surgery and not attending the pharmacy or GP surgery at all and instead, walking into the village.

Whilst we understand that this is the most convenient option for most ablebodied patients, the car park gets extremely busy and it may result in much a longer wait to park than it would parking elsewhere and walking. We would like to politely ask that, unless it is an absolute necessity to drive to the surgery and use our small car park, to please consider parking in one of the other free Birstall car parks and walk the short way to the surgery instead. We will be closely monitoring the car park situation over the coming months to see if we can improve the access to those patients who need it most.

Ms Sara Mitchell Assistant Practice Manager Greengate Medical Centre

Information for those in need of advice and support.

• For the latest government advice www.gov.uk • ‘Helping our Community LE4 Birstall’ on Facebook for help with shopping, urgent supplies, prescriptions, dog walking, friendly voice: (07823) 349658 • Support local shops: your corner shop might have the item you’re looking for • Age UK Leicestershire and Rutland helpline (0116) 299 2278 Glenfield Country Market

Spring Craft Fair Saturday 18th April 2020 This event has been cancelled due to coronavirus

Birstall Library Omni Service Do you enjoy reading, but struggle to get out to the library?

Birstall library offer a minibus collection and drop off service every 4 weeks. Our driver picks you up and returns you home after your visit to the library, where you can choose your books with help from our volunteers and enjoy a cuppa and a chat in a friendly, social atmosphere.

Please contact Birstall Library on 0116 3058756

Birstall & District Art Society Tues April 14, at 7pm This meeting has been cancelled

Parkinsons Support Group A local support group for sufferers, family, careers and friends Of people with Parkinson’s Disease We meet every 2nd Tuesday of the

Architectural plans

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THE BIRSTALL POST APR 2020

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

ough Council, Edith Murphy Trust and a large input by our Maintenance Manager Peter Allen and his team.

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month at Syston Community Centre 7, School Street, Syston , LE7 1HN 2-4pm Come and have a chat over a cup of tea, Guest speakers on a wide range of subjects Free admission, raffle. A warm welcome awaits you.

Further information from Helen Ball on 01162677487

Cedar Care Circle & Covid 19.

Dear friends. Due to the rapidly escalating cases of Covid-19 I have decided to suspend our meetings at the Lambourne Cafe until June at the earliest. If the decision is made that over 70s must self isolate for 4 months then it will be July. I wish you all well, keep safe. Barbara 07905760556

Film Presentations Thurcaston and Cropston Parish In March, “Downton Abbey” was postponed. Please retain your tickets for use later.

Unfortunately, no films will be shown in Thurcaston during April or May. Please watch the Parish Website and look for posters to indicate the next films.

The Film Volunteers The Charnwood Group of the

THE BIRSTALL POST APR 2020

Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust

Food hub open during crisis BIRSTALL FOOD Hub will remain open during the current coronavirus pandemic.

It provides food for anyone on benefits or low wages, with collection from St Theresa‘s Church on Front Street on Tuesdays from 10 to 11:30 am.

You need to ring (07305) 093791 by any Sunday evening for collection on the following Tuesday.

You can also contact birstallfoodhub@gmail.com The food hub is welcoming new volunteers to help run it. If you would like to find out more about volunteering please send an email to the address given above, or call (07848) 144169.

If you would like to donate items for

Parish Council notes

Shop local Birstall are now set up as a good cause as part of the

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

Charnwood Lottery

Members of the public expressed their concerns about proposed new housing in the draft Leicester City local plan, located near Greengate Lane, and Park Road.

Chair Ann Marshall said that as many people as possible need to make their views known when the plan is put out for public consultation, not by a petition, but by individual responses. They could also lobby their County Councillor with concerns about highways matters.

Councillor Marshall added that the Parish Council can only comment on planning applications, they are not part of the decision-making process.

No police officer was present to present the crime report. Crimes reported this month to date are: assault 2, criminal damage 2, drugs (possession) 2, theft from motor-vehicle 4.

It was agreed to reject a grant aid application from the ocean sports cricket club for £250 for a tarpaulin to cover the playing surface as it was impractical.

It is listed under the name of Birstall business cooperative.

For every £1 ticket purchased by our supporters, we will receive 50p back towards our group and you have a chance to win up to £25,000.

All funds received will go towards improving Birstall Village Centre and any community events we hold throughout the year.

Please support this and help us improve burst of the Centre for everyone. www.charnwoodlottery.co.uk

The Mattioli Woods Rothley 10k & Joe’s Jog event on Thursday, June 16 has been cancelled

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the food bank, such as food, toiletries, nappies or dogfood, you can leave them in a trolley at the rear of the co-op supermarket on Wanlip Lane. They can also be taken to Rothley Baptist Church on Woodgate, Rothley from 10 am on any Monday.

LEICESTERSHIRE POLICE and Crime Commissioner Lord Willy Bach has offered his reassurance to the public that robust plans are in place to support the global fight against the Coronavirus.

is cancelling its meeting due to be held on April 8th at Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall.

All future meetings are cancelled until further notice, and people should check the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust website for information about meetings recommencing. https://www.lrwt.org.uk

Want someone to walk you through a self assessment?

www.twyf-accounts.co.uk Email: Linda@twyf.co.uk

Police virus response The PCC said Leicestershire Police had significant experience responding to major incidents and added its hardworking officers, staff and volunteers were doing everything possible to protect and safeguard the public while supporting frontline NHS and other key workers.

Lord Willy Bach said: “We are living in unprecedented times. As the scale of

Trouble with your figures?

the Coronavirus crisis grows, all of us must adapt and adjust what is normal to support the nation’s response and ensure we limit the impact of this disease on our lives.

The necessary protective measures set out by the Government this week would have been unimaginable two weeks ago.

But today they are critical to stem the spread of this pandemic and to safeguard thousands of lives.

“I have no doubt the weeks and months ahead will be extremely difficult for all of us and will test the resilience of the force in ways we have never seen before. This global health emergency will take many months to overcome. However, I remain absolutely confident that we will rise to the challenge and manage any challenges posed effectively.

“The Chief Constable is keeping me regularly updated on the Force’s contingency plans and I know we are ready to adapt our operational response as the crisis deepens. “If we are going to mitigate the impact of Coronavirus, we must all play our part. We must heed public health advice and take responsible action to stop the disease spreading further.

“This is a global fight and we should not underestimate the role, however small, all of us can play in ending this crisis. My team and I have also made changes in our bid to give our NHS partners and other key workers our full support and we will continue to do so.

“The policing family is ready to provide reassurance and familiarity in these unsettling times. As PCC, I will continue to do everything I can to protect services for the vulnerable and victims of crime and ensure the Chief Constable has every resource available to manage this threat effectively.

“Please take good care of yourselves and your families and stay safe.”

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Volunteer appeal from the NHS THE NHS is looking for volunteers to help up to 1.5 million people who have been asked to shield themselves from coronavirus because of underlying health conditions.

People can become an NHS Volunteer Responder, and join the more than half a million who have already signed up, by visiting goodsamapp.org/NHS and adding their details to the NHS section.

The NHS Volunteer Responder scheme is not intended to replace local groups helping their vulnerable neighbours but is an additional service provided by the NHS. Andy Williams, Joint Chief Executive of the Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, said: “Coronavirus is the biggest challenge we have ever faced, which is why the call has gone out, nationally and locally, to the public: your NHS needs you. In these extraordinary times, it’s essential that we all pull together to protect the most vulnerable, reduce pressures on our NHS and care system and save lives.

“Across the country people are playing their part in the fight against the virus by staying at home to protect themselves, others and the NHS. I would urge anyone who can to sign up to volunteer, whether that’s as an NHS Volunteer Responder or through local schemes.”

Locally, Leicester City Council and Leicestershire County Council have joined voices with Voluntary Action Leicestershire (VAL) to build up a bank of volunteers to join with Voluntary and Community Sector partners in supporting Leicestershire people.

To help people stay in their homes volunteers are needed to support people with things like dog walking for vulnerable people unable to get out themselves, providing a friendly phone call service to help people isolated or at risk of loneliness, or to pick up shopping for those that can’t do it easily themselves. This community-based volunteering is essential to the everyday lives of those affected

by COVID-19.

So far, over 700 local people have already answered the call to help Leicester’s most vulnerable citizens during the coronavirus crisis.

Kevan Liles, Chief Executive at Voluntary Action Leicestershire, said: “It’s amazing so many people have signed up already. We know from calls we have already received that there are people across the region who want to volunteer to help others and this scheme will give

them the opportunity to do so.”

County Council leader Nick Rushton said: “Volunteers play a huge part in our communities and the support of volunteers is particularly critical now. It is really encouraging that so many people are coming forward to help others at this time of crisis. I would encourage people to offer their help using the VAL and NHS websites.”

City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “We hope to harness all the goodwill that’s in the city and create a database of people who are ready to help, when they’re needed. This might not be tomorrow, or next week, but it might be in several weeks’ time. The important thing is that we get the resources we’re going to need in place now, so that we’re as well prepared as we can be.”

The County Council has also announced a £1m hardship fund to enable local voluntary and community groups supporting vulnerable people to keep on providing essential support to people who are self-isolating and reducing social contact.

If you are a local organisation looking to find volunteers or want to volunteer yourself for the local VAL scheme you can do so by completing a simple form on the VAL website: www.volunteerleicestershire.org.uk/covid -19 Anyone unable to register online can call VAL on 0116 257 5050 or email helpline@valonline.org.uk The May issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on May 2.

The copy deadline is Apr 17.

Appeal for leaders A VOLUNTARY group that meets weekly in Birstall Village Hall is looking for new leaders.

The Bizzy Bees playgroup aims to provide a space for children aged 0 to 4 to meet and play, have a snack and for parents to have a coffee and a natter.

The turnout is usually between 20 to 40 people, and the group meets on Fridays between 930 – 11:30 am, charging £1.

Sally Leake has run the group for two years with a friend and feels it’s time to handover the reins to someone else.

She said: “The playgroup has run for over 30 years and it would be really sad if it shut down for ever. It needs two people to run it ideally.

“It’s really rewarding, it’s a nice community thing to do for the kids and parents. Without playgroups a lot of parents, childminders and grandparents wouldn’t get to mix for such a cheap price of £1 each.”

The group expects to continue once the coronavirus pandemic has ended. To find out more contact Sally: sallyleake@live.co.uk

THE BIRSTALL POST APR 2020

10

11

Club’s new skippers BIRSTALL GOLF Club’s new skippers – Brian Cox and Cindy Smith – drove in with the hope that better weather will enable everyone to enjoy a good season’s golf.

Despite the wet winter, Brian says the course is in outstanding condition, which is a tribute to the club’s greens committee and staff: “They have managed to keep everything in excellent condition – especially the greens – despite the winter. We hope existing and new members enjoy playing this year”.

Brian, a retired engineer, has been a club member for 30 years, joining in 1990 when his father George was club captain. He has the advantage of living under ten minutes’ walk from the course!

Cindy lives in Glenfield and joined the club some years ago after attending one of the “free lessons” sessions that the club offers every year. Her husband and son are also members.

“I wanted to do something to keep fit.

I attended some of the sessions and immediately got the bug!” she said

Gym’s award winners MEMBERS AT Birstall’s Tactical Basement boxing gym have received awards.

A gold (merit) award was made to Tommy McCann (14). To receive a gold, the recipient needs to have reached the standard of a registered amateur boxer.

Also receiving awards were Louis Derry-Bird Jnr (15) silver; and Jonah Walker (13), Charlie Stevens (14), Declan Winterton (13), Will Brian (22) and Jay Gohil (31), who all received bronze.

The club meets at Birstall Social Club from 7 to 8 pm, Monday to Friday and welcomes new members.

Pics: Top (left to right) Dean Spencer (trainer), Declan Winterton, Tommy McCann, Will Bryan, Charlie Stevens, Louis Derry-Bird; Right: Jonah Walker

On the playing side the club will be keen for its ladies’ team to retain the County Ladies Foursomes it won last year.

Pic: Lady members welcome Brian Cox and Cindy Smith to the first tee

Belgrave bowling club Redhill Island, offers first year membership at £5.

“That’s cheaper than fish and chips” The club, on Thurcaston Road near said club secretary Steven Ramsden.

“Why don’t you come along and have a free coaching session?”

He added: “You never know you may progress and have your name for posterier business hours than usual but, also ty on a trophy, with famous bowlers like providing customers in Birstall with a Tony Allcock, 15 times World Bowls collection and deliv- Champion, who was a member of B.B.C. ery service. in his early years. We have a substantial “Customers will local membership who would be happy be able to see a to help and support you in your developcollection of essen- ment as a bowler!” tial items through Belgrave bowling club is one of the our WhatsApp busi- oldest established bowling clubs in ness account for Leicestershire and boasts an active womdrop off and collec- en's section with their own competition tion. For all green. other items “We currently have young members that are not and would love to welcome new memin our catabers young and old of any gender” said logue, please Steve. ask to see if For further details contact: Secretary we have it in Steve Ramsden 0116 2870787 or Steve stock.

Wain 07885099328 “To place www.belgravebowlingclub.co.uk an order, please add us on Whatappledore sApp or call Carpentry & joinery 07466 350 797. In the meantime, Carpentry & joinery, on behalf of kitchens, bedrooms, Wanlip building work Stores, thank Insured you for your City & Guilds Qualified custom and for your Please call for support. Stay a free quotation safe.”

BELGRAVE BOWLING Club is welcoming new members.

Wanlip Avenue shop delivers WANLIP STORES at 52 Wanlip Avenue, Birstall is offering a grocery delivery service to all customers.

THE BIRSTALL POST APR 2020

Delivery will be free to elderly, vulnerable people and NHS and emergency service workers.

Spokesman Shilpesh Patel said: “Due to the unfolding situation with Coronavi-

rus (COVID-19), we know the coming days and weeks will be filled with uncertainty and we want to help support you and your families as best we can.

“To reduce the risk of spreading the virus we will be operating short-

0781 1391510 0116 3326898

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Team needs sponsors BIRSTALL UNITED juniors girls team are looking for sponsors for their under 13s football shirts.

The club train on Saturdays and plays friendlies on Sundays.

“We think this is an excellent opportunity to support local grassroots football in the emerging and successful area of girls’ football, while supporting young girls to keep active. We are excited about entering the league and the backing of a sponsor would really boost the girls’ morale” said a spokesman.

He added: “We are also looking for more players that are in school years

Council decide not to ask for public transport cash THE DEVELOPER of Hallam Fields was obligated to pay £150,000 for improved bus transport to and from the development, but only £9000 was ever spent.

five, six, seven and eight to join us as we continue our journey and continue to encourage girls to be active and also passionate about football.”

Contact Charlie on 07530 308680 for more details.

In a response to a Freedom of Information request, Leicestershire County Council said the developer was to pay the £150,000 in three instalments as part of a section 106 agreement. The first instalment of £63,756 was paid on August 12, 2015, with the next two instalments due on the anniversary of the first payment.

The intention was for a bus service to loop into the development off the A6.

After receiving the first payment, the County Council re-assessed the need for

A growing Birstall business IT WAS back in April 2014 that MDW Fireplaces on Sibson Road first opened its showroom doors to its first customers.

During that time the family run business has grown in size and now occupies bigger premises, with two floors of displays to showcase many leading British manufacturers.

“We are now able to showcase a variety of different types of appliance ranging from gas and electric fires to multi-fuel stoves and wood burners, as well as spares and accessories” said Hayley Warne from MDW. She added: “To celebrate our sixth birthday we will have different offers available, please pop in to see us at our showroom just as soon as circumstances allow” Pic: The MDW showroom on Sibson Road

a bus service and concluded “there were a number of high frequency commercial services on the A6 with the bus stops fronting the site within accessible walking distance for residents” and that “introducing a bus service that served the roads within the development would not be necessary or sustainable in the long term as there was accessible high frequency provision already in place on the A6.”

The County Council then considered alternative options to encourage public transport use and considered developing a personalised travel plan (PTP) scheme within the development. These schemes aim to discourage single occupancy car journeys by promoting public transport, walking and cycling.

The County Council said in the response: “unfortunately, the developer was not agreeable to using the monies towards a PTP scheme and as such no further monies... were requested for this development [from the public transport contribution].”

The County Council say they spent £9000 on three new bus shelters on the A6 and returned £54,756 to the developer. No further payments from the developer were requested by the county council.

The developers did pay their full contribution to the Birstall park and ride service totalling £321,164.

The May issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on May 2.

The copy deadline is Apr 17.

THE BIRSTALL POST APR 2020

12

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Care home workers IDEAL CAREHOMES is offering flexible paid work to those who have been financially affected by the Coronavirus outbreak.

Sarah Colling, Head of Development and Engagement at Ideal Carehomes, said: “During such unprecedented times, Ideal Carehomes aims to bring people together by recruiting local people to lend a helping hand and assist their ‘heroic’ care staff to continue to deliver the highest standards of care to residents.

“Offering £9 per hour, flexible workers will help to perform key tasks throughout the care home environment including; kitchen work, cleaning, laundry, serving meals, even down to the simplest, but still very important, tasks such as making the perfect cup of tea.”

Workers will not be required to perform any personal care or assist residents without the supervision of the trained care staff and it will be mandatory for new workers to complete essential DBS and health checks prior to their first shift.

New flexible workers employed by Ideal Carehomes will be given access to key E-learning portals via the newly launched Ideal Academy, providing important training including; dementia awareness, person-centred care, safeguarding and first aid.

Sarah said: “As communities throughout the UK continue to suffer the effects of the Coronavirus, it is important that we are continuing the daily running of our care homes as normal and maintaining residents’ current lives with as little disruption to them as possible. In the event that some of our current staff teams are unwell and unable to work, these key members of the community can utilise their cooking, cleaning and domestic skills to enable our dedicated care staff to continue what they do best – caring for our residents.”

Ideal Carehomes provides 24 hour residential and dementia care in Rothley and in newly built state-of-the-art homes across the Midlands. For more information about flexible working opportunities at Ideal Carehomes, contact 0113 385 3887 or via email recruitment@idealcarehomes.co.uk. www.idealcarehomes.co.uk

School in top ten IT’S AN exciting time for the students and staff of Riverside Primary School in Birstall, following the announcement that they’re ranked in the Top 10 Primary Schools in Leicestershire for 2019.

The ranking, evaluated by the Leicester Mercury, takes into consideration the schools’ pupil progress, teaching and attendance among other factors.

Proud Executive Head Teacher, Chel-

sea Norman, said: “Our success at Riverside is due to the ‘can do’ attitude of our children; they are fearless, they rise to every challenge and inspire us every day!

“Our ‘Believe and Achieve’ motto reverberates around our classrooms. It helps us to remain steadfast in our quest for excellence.”

As well as achieving an overall 5 star rating, Riverside also scored maximum marks for Attainment and Progress, moving 59 places up the leader board from last year.

Wreake’s WI news VE Day celebration extra spaces

THE WHITE Horse in Birstall is planning a VE day celebration event on May 8.

Due to the coronavirus the event may be changed but at the time of going to press the event, from 12 till 4 pm, was planned to feature: • The nations toes to the heroes of World War II at 3 pm • A 100 play street party with wartime fare such as rabbit stew • A wartime display of photos and memorabilia • Tammy Bartlett performing songs from

the period • Prizes for the best wartime outfit • Local dance group ‘Dance Academy‘ Charlotte Foy from The White Horse said: “The event will be an opportunity for us all to remember the enormous sacrifices that were made close to home and abroad and to joyously celebrate as people did 75 years ago, the arrival of peace in Europe.”

The pub is appealing for wartime photos of Birstall for their display.

Email info@thewhitehorse birstall.co.uk or phone (0116) 267 1038.

38 LADIES attended Birstall and Wanlip WI’s meeting at WREAKE VALLEY Academy says it the British Legion on March 2. is committed to taking in an We talked of past, present and additional class group in Sepfuture events. Since this meeting the tember due to extra demand Covid19 situation has progressed from parents. rapidly and given the age profile of

our group it seems likely that many future activities could be cancelled as was the annual Leicestershire and Rutland WI Federation event at Leicester Grammar School on March 14th.

Our speaker on the evening was David Price who talked to us about ‘Sophisticated Ladies of the Night’.

We heard about the Parisian courtesans of the mid to late 1800’s and how they were the beautiful celebrities of their time.

From Birstall & Wanlip WI

THE BIRSTALL POST APR 2020

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Tim Marston, headteacher at Wreake Valley, said: “We understand from the local authority that a considerable number of children in and around the Charnwood area have been left disappointed with the secondary school place they have been allocated, in some cases a school place has not been offered at all. This is very unsettling for both the children and their parents.”

The school, which has historically been bigger, was due to limit admissions to around 140 pupils for September 2020.

After significant numbers of parents contacted them they have committed to staffing the school ready for an intake of around 170 pupils.

Tim added: “It is essential that these children are given the opportunity to attend a secondary school which they are happy to come to everyday and where we can give them the very best chance to be prepared for the world that they will compete in once they leave us.

“As a new Head teacher I have a strong and clear vision for the future direction of the school to further enhance the many strengths that the school already has and I am inviting parents, who find themselves in this situation, to contact us”.

Anyone who needs more information should contact Rachael Boyall on T: 0116 264 1080 or email admin@wvacademy.org Further information can be found at www.wvacademy.org

NHW news

& crime report Virus Scams and Good Advice We have long been aware of scam calls claiming to be from Windows or Microsoft telling us that our computer has been infected by a virus. They are, of course, just a ploy to trick us out of our money.

Now the fraudsters have descended to an even more despicable level, preying on the genuine concern of people about the Covid-19 virus. Unsolicited calls, aimed at the most vulnerable and worried recipients, play up the risks (as if they are not serious enough already) and offer solutions to reduce them. These range from ‘miracle cures’ that are being kept secret by the politicians for their own use, to home deliveries of groceries and other items that you are told are otherwise unobtainable.

However, you are one of the lucky ones because you can still buy them on-line. All you have to do is give your credit card details but have to do so quickly before supplies run out!

Our usual advice still applies; be very wary if contacted out of the blue and offered something that is too good to be true.

These criminals are good at what they do and are inventing new lies on a regular basis.

The National Neighbourhood Watch Network has published advice on how, as good neighbours, we can protect ourselves, our loved ones and our community.

• Agree with your family members, other relatives, friends and neighbours what to do if a Covid-19 outbreak occurs in your community and what the needs of each person will be.

• Use local websites or social media

pages to have access to neighbours, information, and resources; and share phone numbers and email addresses, particularly with those who are isolated or vulnerable.

• Consider establishing a ‘buddy’ system within your community to ensure everyone receives important Covid-19 news and can receive support and services safely, such as essential deliveries.

• Plan ways to care for those who might be at greater risk of serious complications.

• Select a room in your home that can be used to separate sick household members from those who are healthy.

• Learn how to self-isolate. Guidance can be found on the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronaviruscovid-19/self-isolation-advice/ • Create a list of local organisations that you and your neighbours can contact in the event that you need access to information, healthcare services, support or resources. Consider including organisations that provide mental health or counselling services, food, and other supplies.

• Create an emergency contact list of family, friends, neighbours, healthcare providers, teachers, employers, the local public health department, and other community resources.

• Learn about the emergency operations plan at your child’s school or childcare facility, and your employer’s emergency operations plan.

Practice everyday preventive actions including regular hand washing.

From Birstall & Wanlip NHW

Crime Update Burglary: Both ‘dwelling’ and ‘nondwelling’ burglary were our beat priorities for March as we have had 6 of these offences reported during the last month (4 dwelling and 2 non-dwelling ). The dwelling (house) burglaries have occurred on Wanlip Lane, Station Rd, Lime Tree Avenue and Bramley Rd, with properties often being targeted for jewellery and cash. If you must keep large amounts of cash or expensive jewellery in your house, consider installing a safe to provide extra security, or better still, simply keep these items

elsewhere, in the bank or safety deposit box.

Theft from vehicles: Thefts from vehicles continues to be a problem with another 7 reports being received in February, two of which related to registration plates being stolen. Please ensure you are locking your car, removing all valuables and if you do see anyone acting suspicious near to vehicles, please call us on 101 or 999 if you believe a crime is actually in progress.

We had a total of 39 crimes reported to us in February, which is slightly down on January when we had 41. The main categories are as follows: 7 thefts from vehicles, 6 burglaries, 6 assaults, 5 fuel thefts from the petrol station, 3 reports of criminal damage, 2 reports of robbery, 2 actual vehicle thefts, 2 Public Order offences and 2 ‘other thefts’. Lastly, we had 1 cycle theft and drugs offence. We have also had a number of positive results this month with a male being arrested & charged with the Robbery at Betfred on Sibson Rd & another being arrested & charged with a number of thefts from the Co-op. Another male has also been arrested in relation to a theft at the Florists on The Meadway.

As stated in the ‘priorities’ section above, we have had a number of burglaries last month where properties have been targeted for expensive jewellery and cash. This type of crime is still quite rare, however it does appear to be on the increase. Please consider the following suggestions: 1) If you own expensive jewellery and must keep it at home, consider buying a safe and installing this somewhere where it is not obvious or easy to find. Expensive items can then be locked away in this.

2) Consider having copies made of any expensive items so that the originals can be kept somewhere else, away from the property. Also, take photos of any items so these can be given to the Police if they are stolen.

3) Remember, the best thing to do is lock your home & stop burglars from being able to access the rear as this is where most houses are broken into. Install solid gates (and lock them) maintain fences & fit an alarm.

A message from Sergeant Michael Young There have been a number of good results in Birstall over the last few weeks with a male being arrested and charged with the Robbery at Bet Fred in the village and another male being arrested and charged with a number of thefts from the Co-op that happened during January. Both of these males have been sent to prison on remand whilst awaiting trial for these crimes.

This month PCSO Butler has also been conducting stranger danger and internet safety talks at Riverside Primary School as well as a ‘people who help us’ talk at Rainbows Nursery. The beat team have also been conducting extra patrols in the village in order to deter people from committing crime and Anti-Social Behaviour.

Sadly, this will be my last ‘message’ as Leicestershire Police is moving to a new operating model & I will be taking on a new role, however I leave the beat in good shape and ready to face any challenges that arise.

For further crime information please visit: www.police.uk/leicestershire/NL60/ Sgt 2052 PC 1759 PCSO 6611Michael Young PC Dave Jaeckels, PCSO Mark Butler

Remember: Neighbourhood link is a free and easy way of finding out what the Police are doing in your area. It is free, 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

Planning P/20/0617/2: 51 Castlegate Avenue Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3FD. The erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 5.55m, with a maximum height of 3m, and height to the eaves of 3m.

P/20/0547/2: 100 Curzon Avenue Birstall LE4 4AD. Two storey side and single storey front and rear extensions to dwelling P/20/0540/2: 4 Oakfield Avenue Birstall LE4 3DQ. First floor side extension, single storey rear extension and erection of front porch P/20/0570/2: 146 Birstall Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4DF. 2 storey side and rear extensions accompanied by single storey extension also to side and rear of dwelling P/20/0553/2: 41 The Crossways Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4ED. The erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 6m, with a maximum height of 4m, and height to the eaves of 3m.

P/20/0544/2: 19 Cedar Avenue Birstall LE4 3DA. Loft conversion with front and rear dormer extensions to roof of dwelling P/20/0520/2: 25 Copeland Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3AB. The erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 6m, with a maximum height of 3.6m, and height to the eaves of 2.4m.

P/20/0458/2: 85 Roman Road Birstall LE4 4BF. Single storey front & rear extensions to detached house P/20/0505/2: 473 Loughborough Road Birstall LE4 4BJ. Erection of detached house and triple garage to rear P/20/0493/2: 44 Park Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3AU. Certificate of lawful development (Proposed) for the erection of single storey extension to side of dwelling.

P/20/0484/2: 95 Allington Drive Birstall Leicester LE4 4FE. Certificate of lawful development (proposed) for a single storey rear extension with 4 roof lights.

P/20/0464/2: 19 Lyngate Avenue Birstall LE4 3HG. Single storey rear & front porch extensions, single storey side extension to garage and loft conversion including side and rear dormers & removal of chimneys.

P/20/0454/2: 27 Moorgate Avenue Birstall LE4 3HJ. Two & single storey side extensions including demolition of existing garage P/20/0462/2: 18 Tempest Road Birstall Leicester LE4 3BE T1 Oak Tree - Minor crown work, deadwood removal, removal of epicormic growth & minor lateral selective reduction by 1.5m approx.

P/20/0408/2 : 68 Bramley Road Birstall LE4 4FG. Proposed single storey extension to rear and change from flat roof to hipped roof above existing 2-storey extension to side of dwelling

Flower club IF YOU have a love of flowers and would like to join us, Birstall Flower Club meet once a month – on the fourth Wednesday of the month; in Birstall Village Hall.

A demonstrator from the National Association of the Flower Arrangement Society visits our club, bringing with them unusual and sometimes exotic flowers and accessories. They then demonstrate 5 to 6 arrangements, to the amazement of the audience. You do not have to bring anything with you. All you have to do is turn up, watch, enjoy and hopefully win an amazing prize of flowers.

As a club, we also run flower arranging and wreath workshops, evening outings to local “open” gardens and coach trip outings to gardens around the country.

If you would like any more information, please telephone Sylvia on 0116 2674206 or Mary on 07704398017 From Birstall Flower Club

THE BIRSTALL POST APR 2020

14

News from the churches LIFE IN St. James Church has now taken a rather surreal turn.

We have always been welcomed at the door to the church (St. James is a very open and welcoming church!), but now, as well as a warm smile, we also get a blob of hand sanitiser! All rather odd at the moment, but I expect we shall get used to it, in time.

Not shaking hands during the peace or receiving Communion wine also feels like a drastic re-shaping of our worship practices. It will all help to keep us safe though - God willing.

Being with God is at the heart of 'Soul Space' held by the 'Nearer' group, and is a time of meditation and quiet, at Hallam Fields Hall (next to the shops in Hallam Fields). This will be on the third Wednesday of every month, starting at 7.00 p.m. If you would like to know more, please contact Gill or Peter Chester on 0116 2120236 and they will be happy to talk to you.

In our society it is a fact that many people have to rely on food banks for themselves and their families, and/or need help and advice about debt. This year's Bishop's Lent Appeal will support the 'Together Leicester Cook and Eat' project, aimed at teaching and developing cooking skills to people in the diocese.

UPDATE: no services will be held in either of our churches until further notice.

In line with government advice this instruction is to include all meetings.

Saint James the great will be open Sunday mornings 10-11am and our Lady and Saint Nicolas Sunday evening 6-7pm for private prayer / meditation . Government guidelines on keeping a safe distance / hygiene must be complied with.

From Birstall parish churches

Sunday services The Cedars Academy has cancelled all bookings for its premises and in light of current government advice, we will not be holding public worship until further notice. We will, of course, resume when it is safe to do so.

Alternative ministry The Metropolitan Tabernacle in London has suspended public services but will stream live services online on Sundays at 11am and 6.30pm and Bible Studies on Wednesdays at 7.30pm. Recent teaching sermons and Bible studies are also available. These can be accessed at: https://www.metropolitantabernacle.org In addition, recordings of past sermons

by Pastors Stuart Olyott and Alun McNabb are available at: http://www.knowyourbiblerecordings.org /sermons.php and http://www.sermonsfortoday.org respectively.

Easter Amid all the current happenings, the glorious truth of Easter can still be celebrated. We encourage you to read the accounts of Good Friday and Easter Sunday for yourselves as recorded in all four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) in the New Testament section of the Bible. If you have any questions about the Lord Jesus Christ, then please contact us on the number below.

Enquiries about BIBC: please ring 0116 221 4883.

From Birstall Independent Baptist Church

FR. TED, our Parish Administrator, celebrated his Golden Jubilee of Ordination at the end of February.

To mark this very special occasion,

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he concelebrated Mass at St. Theresa’s with some of his brethren from the Rosmini Centre at Ratcliffe. After Mass, there was a splendid reception for clergy, parishioners and guests from local

Holy Communion parents have organised 15 themselves on a Whatap and are helping each other out with activities etc for the children now that they are off school.

May these demonstrations of love and care for one another continue long after the emergency is over.

From St Theresa’s & Sacred Heart Rothley

HELLO, AS I write this we have faced an unprecedented week – I am comforted by the Bible which encourages us: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 NIVUK This is a time to lean into Jesus and trust him with everything. As we do this we do not need to be anxious and fearful but we can still find the peace of God in the middle of the storm.

Recently as a church leader I have faced many questions… · How should we care for people at this time? · What’s the best way to watch over all the seniors, children and young people of our city? · How do we offer the right care for the poor? · How do we reach out into our comPic: Fr Ted with his jubilee cake munities with the love of Jesus? · What is our faith response to a churches. Fr Ted was presented with national crisis? gifts and a framed Papal Blessing from Here are some things we are doing Pope Francis, which will take pride of at TLC to help you – all of these are on place in his study, he told us. It was a our website www.trinitylifechurch.org.uk lovely evening and a chance for us to · Each week we are realising TLC offer our individual congratulations and Midweek Live on our website on Thursgood wishes on fifty years of selfless days. This is a short 30-minute service service to the parish communities and recorded with a few of our ministers the pupils he taught at Ratcliffe College and staff. It contains worship, a message, over that time. and some prayers. Why not set aside Sadly, as we know, the world has time to watch it each week by yourself since then been faced with tackling the or as a family.

Covid-19 pandemic. Since March 20, · On Monday mornings we will be there has been a suspension of all Massposting a short daily devotional for that es until further notice. However, Fr. Ted week, a link to some inspirational worsays Mass privately each day at 9.30am, allowing us to join in spiritual commun- ship songs, links to helpful resources, ways to pray and some stories of what ion.

God is doing.

Information regarding arrangements · On Fridays, we release a resource for funerals and the sacraments, can be to all our families and children called found in the News section of the parish “TLC Family Fridays!”. This will be a magwebsite: st-theresa-sacredheart.co.uk azine style sheet, a video from our kids Parishioners can also find parish and family’s team, competitions to enter notices and updates here. and many fun things to help you grow This crisis has shown just how closer to your family, your friends and strong our local communities really are, God. with the emergence of some excellent · We have also put things in place initiatives offering help to those in need of practical help or a friendly phone call to facilitate live, interactive streams for our youth and young adults. to someone feeling isolated. Our First Alongside these we are praying for you all at this time, but please be in The Midlands Co-Operative touch if we can help you, pray for you, or if you need support or food please Sports & Social Club ask.. simply email…

Birstall Road admin@trinitylifechurch.org.uk or ring The ideal venue for for 0116 2558672.

God is good - Let his peace fill your Weddings • Parties hearts Christenings etc David and Susan Hind – Senior leadLarge Function Room with use of Kitchen ers of TLC 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

2674059 or 07586 255566 birstallcoop@outlook.com

From Trinity Life Church Birstall The May issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on May 2.

The copy deadline is Apr 17.

Birstall BAG’s cancer corner Cancer Concerns in Light of COVID-19 Living with a cancer diagnosis and going through treatment is challenging, life changing and frightening. Add to that the pandemic we currently find ourselves in and the strain of it all can feel insurmountable. We urge everyone to spare an additional thought and offer support to those in our community that were already living with a life changing illness, particularly those people with cancer.

Your appointments If you have cancer and are in the middle of your diagnosis or treatment it is possible your appointments, investigations or treatment might be affected.

Birstall BAG's want to do all we can to reassure you and signpost you to support and advice.

Firstly, your health care team will be doing all they can to ensure your treatment and care are disrupted as little as possible.

However, the threat posed by COVID-19 to all of us, means that health care teams are continually assessing the risks and benefits of continuing with existing treatment and care plans for individual patients. Some cancer treatments can make you more susceptible to infection and therefore more at risk of contracting the virus and then less able to cope with it. For this reason, during the acute stages of the pandemic your health care team may suggest a brief pause briefly in your treatment of deferring to another treatment. Some patients may continue with additional medication support and stringent advice to be more cautious than previously.

With regard to appointments all

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old gym equipment, think of novel ways to exercise, dig out those old fitness DVD's or join online fitness hospital teams have been asked to use sessions/groups. It is SO important to telephone consultation as much as possi- keep your physical activity and fitness at ble meaning your face to face appointall times even whilst restricted. ments may cease for the time being.

Your mental health X-rays and scanning, where needed, will Please also consider the effect of continue but you will be advised to arisolation on your mental health. The rive just before your appointment, attend emotional burden of cancer is difficult alone where possible and leave the hosand the worries surrounding the COVID pital promptly. Hand hygiene and observ- pandemic and the effect of isolation ing social distancing throughout. adds to this. Use social media to keep Please do reach out to your key work- connected to the outside world, join er or specialist nurse if you are consocial media communities that interest cerned, they will ensure there is you and broaden the number of people continuation of their services, offering you communicate with regularly. If you you specialist, individualised support and have never listened to the radio, now is information. Response times the time, consider having a newspaper may be slower so please delivered or your favourite magazine. also consider Have a small group of friends or family reaching out to who you establish a phone call chain appropriate with to ensure at least 2-3 times a day national you speak to someone. cancer It’s important to keep up to speed charities with government advice and available who also support during the pandemic but pace have informa- your exposure to news and COVID uption or supdates. Seeing news items or reading port services. social media stories that provide a graphIt is likely ic insight into personal experiences can other people increase your anxiety and affect your living with your ability to cope over the coming weeks type of cancer will and months. have similar concerns and Stay safe and well & look forward the charities have been workBirstall has organised an amazing ing hard behind the scenes to co-ordiCOVID support service for our communinate their support services and tailor ty, Birstall BAG’s would like to say a they to specific cancers. huge thank you to those behind this Establish a healthy routine effort and really urge you to embrace During this enforced period of isolathis community spirit and the support tion or shielding if you have been inand camaraderie it offers. Please stay formed you are a high-risk person, safe and well, help others to do the please try to establish a health routine. same by adhering to social distancing It’s easy to sink into the sofa and worry and shielding advice and please please the weeks away, having a routine, daily keep yourself fit and active. Let’s all goals or a to do list and exercise are look forward to more normal times in more important than ever particularly the future and perhaps a very special for people living with cancer, or any ill post-COVID Birstall on the Park event to health for that matter. Dust down your celebrate our community.

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Here are a few recommended websites for you if you would like further information.

Macmillan Cancer Support https://www.macmillan.org.uk/corona virus/cancer-and-coronavirus Support and information telephone number 0808 808 00 00 Mon-Fri 09.00-17.00 Marie Curie https://www.mariecurie.org.uk/help/su pport/coronavirus#visiting Support and information telephone number 0800 090 2309 Mon-Fri 08.00-18.00 Sat & Sun 11.00-17.00 NHS https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/corona virus-covid-19/ Support and information telephone number 111 Open 24 hours a day.

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 CHURCH DIARY: SERVICES CANCELLED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS

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

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

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

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

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THE BIRSTALL POST APR 2020

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