Birstall Post (458) Sept 2021

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

SEPTEMBER 2021

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 458

Birthday celebrations for Birstall man, 100

Man injured in crash A MAN was taken to hospital after falling off an e-scooter on Greengate Lane.

The accident happened on Thursday, August 12. The man was taken to hospital in an ambulance – his injuries were described by Leicestershire Ambulance Service as “not life-changing or lifethreatening.”

It is currently illegal to use e-scooters on a public highway. They can only be used on private land.

If caught by the police, you can be fined up to £300, get penalty points on your license, and the scooter could be impounded.

DOZENS OF birthday cards, including 250 from local school children, helped make the 100th birthday of Birstall’s Ernie Tyler a really special day on July 30.

“It touched me,” said Ernie. "It was kind of the children to think of me.”

As well as a family celebration at the Queen Vic in Syston, Ernie was treated to a birthday party on July 31 at the Methodist coffee shop by the organisers of the Methodist lunch club, which Ernie attends each week.

Guests enjoyed a sing-along, tea and a slice of birthday cake.

Mary Downs from the Methodist lunch club said: “Ernie was absolutely delighted with it all. He is such a happy and positive man.”

Ernie said: “It was a lovely afternoon, it was nice to see so many kind people.”

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Pic: (left) Ernie at home with his birthday cards & (above & below) at a party in the Methodist coffee shop

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Family spanning five generations

THE GUINNESS world record for the most generations in a single family is seven – Birstall’s Jim

Garner (85) can’t match that, but he’s getting there, with five.

The birth of his great, great-grand-

Pics: Jim’s great-granddaughter Jessica and his great, great-granddaughter Eevee; (left) Jim Garner

dren and grandchildren has reached epic proportions. “Don’t ask,” says Jim, “my wife Wendy sorts that out.”

The retired building contractor says his parents started their family early, and so did he, getting married at 19 and having his first child aged 20. “I didn’t plan on having a big family, it just happened,” he said.

The October issue of daughter Eevee two years ago means remembering a lot of birthdays, and the size of his Christmas gift list for his chil-

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Oct 1.

The copy deadline is Sep 17.

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THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

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Paths completed in new country park THE NEW footpath through the Hallam Fields country park has been completed – further landscaping work and the planting of an orchard is planned for later this year.

The last section of the path to be opened runs from Long Meadow Way, behind the school and past Harrowgate Drive playing field, which is securely fenced and allows no access to the park.

The path then takes you beside the GCR track and connects with the community sports pitches, taking you to the

school car park.

A multi-use games area (MUGA) is planned on the site, featuring goals, hoops and line markings for football and basketball. It will have a tarmac all-weather surface that can be used for other informal games/recreation. Contractors are expected to complete work on the MUGA by October.

A timber post and rail fence will be installed on the park side of the site boundary, next to the GCR track. Benches and litter bins will be installed.

Charnwood Borough Council is currently talking to interested cricket and

Sports pitches

MUGA Pic: walking along the new path in Hallam Fields country park

Country Park Harrowgate Dr Playing Field

KEY: Access points to the park

football clubs about lease arrangements for the sports pitches.

Visitors to the country park and sports pitches are allowed to park in the school car park.

The school recently erected signs in the car park stating that parking is for school staff and visitors only. A spokesman for Charnwood Borough Council said: “We have highlighted the need to change the wording on the signage and are currently liasing with the Lionheart Academy Trust and the school about this.”

They added: “The site will be maintained

by Jelson until formal adoption by Charnwood Borough Council. Adoption by the borough council will occur once all works have been completed to the agreed standard and the commuted sum for maintenance has been paid.”

Costs of providing the country park, sports pitches and Hallam Fields school were all met by developer Jelson as part of its section 106 agreement when planning permission for the Hallam Fields Continued on page 4

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Continued from page 3 estate was granted.

• Access from the Harrowgate Drive playing field to the Hallam Fields country park was debated at Birstall Parish Council’s estate and a recreation committee meeting on August 23.

Birstall Borough Councillor Shona Rattray said that a consultation should be done with local residents, the school and the police. She read out several comments she has received from residents in support of an access, mentioning a safe walking route to school, ease of access for dog walking and exercise, and helping to unify the Hallam Fields estate with the rest of the village.

Birstall Borough Councillor Roy Rollings reported that the local police have indicated their support for an access if the park is locked at night. There is local support for an access, he said, and the Borough Council, who will adopt the park when Jelson have completed it, would like to improve links in the area so that Hallam Fields is not “cut off.”

Cllr Dave Thomas said he lives on the Gates estate and would welcome a new access so that the whole community can share the new park.

Chair of Birstall Parish Council Ann

Help spend £25,000

Pic: the planned multi use games area (MUGA) at Hallam Fields country park

Marshall said there was some opposition to a new access, and that the issue needed further consideration. The approval of the landowners would have to be obtained, and the deeds relating to the

IDEAS ABOUT how to spend £25,000 on highway improvements in Birstall are being sought.

Leicestershire County Council has allocated £25,000 to every county councillor, and Birstall’s councillor, Dan Grimley, is asking residents for their suggestions.

He said: “The Members Highway Fund is intended to fund small scale highways

Harrowgate Drive playing field would need to be checked to see if an access was possible. A public consultation exercise was necessary, and because the park is not yet complete, there was time

and environmental improvements, such as flashing signs to reduce speeding, flower beds and benches, as well as minor road repairs and freshening up signs and lines.

Residents are being invited to help shape how the funding is spent.”

He added: “There are some constraints on requests. One is that any request must comply with safety requirements as defined

to look into the matter further, she said.

The council agreed to undertake a public consultation exercise about providing a new access.

by legislation and best practice. Another is cost - some may be too expensive. I understand that a pedestrian crossing, for example, would cost some £40,000.”

Ideas should be submitted to Councillor Grimley before the end of September.

The County Council hope to carry out the work before April 2022.

Daniel.Grimley@leics.gov.uk

THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

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THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

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Bakers in Birstall urged to don their aprons

AS THE schools go back and the nights get a little longer, it can only mean one thing - it’s time to don your aprons and prepare for The Great Birstall Bake Off!

THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

where it all gets judged in the afternoon by a panel of experts, including last year’s winners and the ladies from the WI. Beccy said: “On Sunday 26th from 11am, we need even more people to Hosted at the White Horse pub, the come to the pub and buy and eat all the baking competition returns for its ninth cake as part of Macmillan’s World’s year of raising money for Macmillan.

Biggest Coffee Morning. The cake sale Beccy Kay, founder of the competition, has a wonderful garden party atmossaid: “Over that time, you wonderful phere with music, a raffle, bunting and bakers and cake eaters have helped entertainment for children and to raise over £8000 for the the winners are given their cancer charity that helps so rosettes and prizes.” many families and no She added: “Everydoubt has touched the one that enters tells us lives of many in Birstall. how much fun they “So, we need local have had getting inpeople, or anyone willing volved, and many cateto travel with their bakes gories have been won we have had entries from by complete baking novall over the country! - to ices in the past, so please enter one or more of our categodon’t think being new to baking ries of cupcakes /traybakes, cakes, bisis an excuse - let this be your moment cuits, savoury bake, bread, free from, to shine and discover a new hobby! best decorated and best under 16. There “We love to make up some super is also a prize for the best in show! hampers for the prize winners and raise “We have a children’s category too some extra money via a raffle, so if anyand love all the entries we get from the one or any local businesses would like kids, so why not get the whole family to donate something suitable for this, baking and have a family competition then you’d be helping out too!” too! Wooden spoons at dawn!

For more information, see the White “There are always some wonderful Horse Birstall Facebook page. For entry prizes for our winners, so why not get forms, please download one from the involved?”

White Horse website The baking entries need to be www.thewhitehorsebirstall.co.uk or pop brought to The White Horse between into the pub to pick one up.

9am-12noon on Saturday September 25,

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Electric buses from ‘Out of control’ dog: Birstall park & ride owners plead guilty A BIRSTALL couple have been given suspended prison sentences after pleading guilty to having a dog dangerously out of control.

Sarah Bowmar and Paul Goldman, of Denegate Avenue, were sentenced at Leicester Magistrates Court on August 6, reports Leicestershire Live.

Their dog, Harley, a three-year-old British bulldog, attacked their friend

A FLEET of electric buses powered by 100% renewable energy has replaced diesel vehicles on Leicester’s three park & ride routes.

THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

Eleven brand new buses now operate on the routes linking Birstall, Meynell’s Gorse, and Enderby with the city centre, in the first phase of a £50m project that could see electric buses rolled out to a third of the city’s network by 2024.

Bringing cleaner, greener and zeroemission public transport to Leicester for the first time, the £5m buses will also provide commuters and shoppers with a quick, quiet and comfortable journey to the city centre.

The distinctive green buses – equipped with onboard digital screens and USB charging points at every seat – will also provide passengers with free WiFi. People waiting for the bus will benefit from real-time arrival information and smart new bus shelters – while new bus priority measures over the next 18 months will help ensure a smooth journey for passengers.

City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “Thanks to our successful bid for government funding through the Transforming Cities Fund, we’ve been able to make this significant investment into sustainable public transport.

“We know that if we are to persuade people to leave their cars outside the city centre, we need to offer them attractive and affordable travel alternatives.

“These Greenline buses are clean, green and comfortable – and the more people use them, the more we can reduce congestion and improve air quality in the city.”

Leicester’s Park & Ride services are run jointly with Leicestershire County Council and operated by Roberts Travel Group.

Roberts Travel Group has played a key role in the electrification project, installing a brand new charging station at its depot in Coalville in partnership with Zenobe Energy. The buses are charged overnight and operate all day on a single charge.

The Park & Ride service costs £3 return for a family/group ticket and is free for concessionary bus pass holders.

The service is currently subsidised so that health workers can travel free of

charge until further notice.

More information can be found at choosehowyoumove.co.uk/parkride/greenlines/ Leicester’s successful bid to the Transforming Cities Fund (TCF) has funded most of the £7.1m required for 18 new electric buses. As well as the 11 new Park & Ride buses, four electric buses will be introduced on the popular Hospital Hopper routes in the autumn, while three electric buses will operate on a new city centre shuttle service from autumn 2022. The green shuttle will ferry people between transport hubs and key destinations in Leicester, free of charge.

The TCF is also funding the £7m required for complementary works, such as bus priority measures, bus shelters, digital ticketing and real-time displays, as well as the creation of two new electric bus park & ride sites at Beaumont Leys and the General Hospital.

Deputy city mayor Cllr Adam Clarke, who leads on environment and transportation, said: “The ultimate goal of the Greenline Electric Bus Project is to improve public transport and local air quality by introducing zero-emission electric buses across the city.

“The next phase of the project is to secure funding that could allow up to 100 more electric buses to be purchased for Leicester.

“We’ll be working closely with local operators and the Department for Transport to support the introduction of electric vehicles across commercial routes in the next two to three years.

“We’re also excited that the £13.5m redevelopment underway at St Margaret’s Bus Station will see Leicester become home to the UK’s first carbon-neutral bus station.

“The Greenline project is just part of our ambitious programme of investment in sustainable transport – practical action that will help us address the urgent climate emergency we are all facing.”

The buses – manufactured by Yutong, the world’s leading supplier of electric buses – have been supplied by Pelican Bus and Coach.

District Judge Nick Watson said the offences were at the lower end of the scale, but that the couple were lucky not to be going straight to prison.

He sentenced them both to 20 weeks imprisonment, suspended for a year, plus a 20-week curfew requiring them to stay at home between 7pm and 7am every day. They were ordered to pay £85 court costs and a £128 victim surcharge.

Mr Goodman was told to pay £1000 compensation to Mr Simon and £3207 to the police to cover the costs of looking after Harley the dog since January.

Harley will be rehomed.

Pic: a British bulldog

Michael Simon at their home. All three were drunk at the time.

There were two incidents when the dog bit Mr Simon. The first, on July 11, 2020, happened after Mr Simon teased the dog with a pizza. On January 15, 2021, Mr Simon sustained a deep cut to his wrist after he approached the dog with a carving knife. Mr Simon spent four days in hospital having surgery on the tendons in his right hand and a metal pin put in his thumb.

Following the July 2020 attack, Mr Simon spent five or six days in hospital with a broken wrist.

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Parish Council notes

A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on August 16.

It was reported that Cllr Jeff Green has resigned. There are now two vacancies on the council.

A member of the public reported that a public footpath behind Worcester Avenue was badly overgrown. The condition of the path has been reported to Charnwood.

County Councillor Dan Grimley reported that a new fund allocated to each county councillor provided £25,000 for highway improvements in their ward. He invited the Parish Council to submit ideas for how it could be spent.

Cllr Grimley reported that Trent Barton had said it was prepared to provide an additional stop in Birstall for its Skylink service, on the A6 near Redhill Island.

Birstall‘s new police constable Lauren DeWet presented the police report. She said she was an additional PC for Birstall, joining PC David Jaeckels. Birstall has also been allocated a second PCSO. PC DeWet said that in August to date, there had been two assaults, two burglaries, three drug offences, four public order offences, seven thefts and two sexual offences.

A sexual offence on Curzon Avenue was an ongoing investigation and police would be speaking to someone soon in connection with it. A drugs warrant has been executed at an address on Stonehill Avenue.

It was reported that the Parish Council had spent £2594 on emergency repairs to an external door to the plant room at the School Lane playing fields pavilion.

The door, which had been vandalised, has been made more secure.

The council considered applications for funding from its community grant fund. The council decided not to award £2000 to Birstall Theatre Group, and to award £400 to Helipads for Hospitals, which will help pay for a can collection bin at the Co-op store car park.

It was agreed to provide the Village Hall free of charge for an event organised by the Helping Our Community Birstall group.

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It was reported that the completion of the new slide on the School Lane playing field had been delayed, as the contractors had left it in an unsafe condition.

The council approved the response of its data protection officer to two complaints made to the Information Commissioner's office regarding the parish council’s response to Freedom of Information requests. These related to the BMX track on Meadow Lane, and trees.

The FOI requests and responses can be viewed at www.whatdotheyknow.com – put ‘Birstall’ in the search box.

Chair Ann Marshall reported that the government’s decision to require Leicester City Council to increase the number of new houses in its local plan by 35% could result in the city attempting to pass on some of this uplift to Charnwood, which must be resisted Comment was made that it was vital to preserve green spaces in Birstall. Cllr Julie Palmer suggested a Birstall Neighbourhood Plan would give the community a stronger voice in the planning process.

Comment was made that neighbourhood plans did not offer any protection from developers, were costly and time-consuming to prepare.

It was reported that the council had appointed a new full-time grounds person and an apprentice. A part-time enforcement officer has been appointed – their duties will include enforcing bylaws relating to dog fouling, dogs on leads and littering.

The external auditor’s report has found no issues with the council’s accounting records for the year ending March 31, 2021.

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Wednesday MARKET! Shop local & support local business Birstall Social Club - opposite Coop

8.30am-3pm Real Refills ● Ethical refill food and cleaning products without the plastic packaging! ● Pasta, rice, dried fruit, nuts, cereal, baking, cleaning products and body care ● Bring your own container - or there are recycled paper bags and sanitised bottles ● Free local delivery for orders over £10 from realrefills.com

T G Portas & Daughter Fresh Fruit & Vegetables & Bakery A huge selection of fresh produce. The delightful bakery stalls stocking Hambletons breads and lots of savoury and sweet treats. Fabulous quality, family owned!

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Growing club welcomes spectators JULY WAS the official return to pre-season training.

This led to a fresh beginning for the club on Thursday August 19, with the first warm-up match against Melton Mowbray at The Co-op Sports Ground.

The following week Birstall travelled to South Leicester.

We’re delighted to announce that, for our home fixtures, supporters can now return to the grounds and watch their local rugby club, thankfully with the bar open for refreshments.

Huge credit must once again go to everyone involved in getting this great club into a position where rugby can restart and for the opportunities that have continued to be given to all players, old and new.

With one of the biggest uptake of new players in the club's history, the positivity around the environment has only been strengthened. The feeling of togetherness and connection is already starting to show within sessions, in which the intensity and detail have been ramped up to get the squad to where they need to be

going into a very difficult league and cup campaign.

With the Olympics in full swing showing Team GB in the Rugby sevens, it was timely that a small handful of Birstall RFC took part in the inaugural Forest Rugby Sevens tournament hosted at Leicester Forest East.

The Greendogs gave a brilliant account of themselves, just missing out on the semi-finals by a drop goal. Phenomenal performances by all involved, a testament to the training and fitness already in the bank.

Off the pitch, an incredible effort in raising over £2500 for Cancer Research UK was completed by ten members (plus support crew) cycling 100 miles around the county. Completed on the hottest day of the year, tyres were changed, sports drinks consumed and plenty of motivation was used to fuel the lads to finish

the job.

One of the participants, David Bonser, said: “I don’t think any of us realised how tough this would actually be. The support from Ade, Glyn, Corinne and Jack kept us going through some pretty dark places, but the feeling when we rode into the club to the applause of family and friends was incredible.

Thank you to everyone who donated, it’s a remarkable achievement, and to be able to support Cancer Research UK in their work makes each mile even more worthwhile”.

Just because the season has nearly begun does not mean you have to miss out on being part of the journey. You can still be a Greendog. Training will continue to happen every Tuesday (and Thursdays as well on select weeks) starting at 7pm. For more information on the fixtures and the most up to date news, please go to our social media channels or visit our website www.birstallrfc.co.uk From Birstall Rugby Football Club

THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

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Inspector will consider Charnwood Plan

Free dance classes

THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

A BIRSTALL dance school is offering free, new classes during September.

Rising Stars Academy is based at Birstall Methodist Church and has recently been taken over by Emma Bateman.

She said: “Do you and your child love to sing or dance? Do you want to attend a fun and friendly dance school? If so, my local dance school is looking for you!”

Emma used to attend the previously owned school as a child herself and now wants to use the skills and expertise that she has gained to teach the future generations of the village she grew up in.

She added: “I really want to build a friendly and inclusive dance school that is suitable for everyone, as well as putting on events that showcase all the students’ talents.

After such a tough year, I think it is important to come together as a community and get people, young and old, moving and socialising again!”

Emma already has a well-established dance school, based at New College in Glenfield, where the students enjoy learning different disciplines of dance as well as attending various social events outside class times. She aims to offer the same to the Birstall community now it is safe to do so.

“I am really excited to add new classes to the timetable which are suitable for children and adults,” she said.

As an introductory offer, all new classes will be free for the whole of September. These new classes include a modern singing group (one for children aged 5-15, and one for adults 16 and over), musical theatre classes for children, and adult tap and ballet classes.

Emma said: “All students are entitled to one free trial of the current set classes too, so come along and see what you think!”

For more information, contact Emma on 07443761300 or email r.starsacademy@gmail.com.

HUNDREDS OF responses from residents are being compiled by Charnwood Borough Council as it prepares to send its Local Plan 2021-37 to Government.

A field designated as part of the ‘green wedge’ between Birstall and Leicester has been identified as a site for housing development in the plan.

The southeast corner of the 7.62hectare field, off Cliffe Road/Henson Close, has space for 35 dwellings and would be accessed from either Cliffe Road or Henson Close.

A six-week public consultation relating to the contents of the Charnwood Local Plan concluded on 23 August.

The Local Plan sets out the Council’s vision for growth, healthy communities and environmental safeguards up to 2037.

The Council does not itself respond to the online and offline representations

received during the public consultation.

Instead, it submits the comments to the Government alongside the Local Plan.

The Secretary of State then refers the documentation to the Planning Inspectorate for review and consideration. It is the Planning Inspector who considers

feedback and representations.

The Council expects to submit its Local Plan in October 2021. Examination hearings with the Planning Inspector will likely take place in Spring 2022. It is hoped that the Charnwood Local Plan will be adopted in October 2022.

If the Cliffe Rd/Henson Close field is not rejected by the planning inspector and remains in the plan, a developer will have to submit a planning application before any development can start.

Residents can then send in comments supporting or objecting to the plans before the application is considered by Charnwood Borough Council. Development of the site is not inevitable, but its inclusion in the Local Plan identifies it as a suitable site for new housing.

The Charnwood Local Plan 2021-37 can be viewed at www.charnwood.gov.uk/localplan. The page also contains maps, FAQs and an executive summary of the document as well as detailed technical information relating to the document.

The Charnwood Local Plan 2021-37: Identifies 154 hectares of employment land to support the creation of 8,900 jobs in the borough and lead its pandemic recovery Allocates land for new sustainable and well-designed homes. The Government has set a target of 1,111 new homes a year to meet the borough’s needs up to 2037.

GREENGATE MEDICAL CENTRE The team at Greengate Medical Centre would like to invite you to book for your free flu vaccination.

We have regular clinics from mid-September onwards.

All over 65 year olds are eligible for a free flu vaccination. Specific clinics for this age group are on: 25th September • 2nd October 14th October • 20th October 26th October • 13th November 11th December All 50-64 year olds and clinically at risk patients are also eligible and these clinics are on: 2nd October • 16th October 13th November • 27th November 11th December

Focuses development towards intensifying and extending existing urban and suburban areas and larger villages, thereby protecting nearly 279 square kilometres of open countryside Plans for the critical mass of development needed to secure infrastructure including five new schools at Loughborough, Shepshed, Barrow, Anstey and Syston - as well as health services, roads and public transport networks Will bring in an estimated £200 million in Section 106 money to pay for other improvements to facilities and amenities Reflects the importance of the environment and conserving biodiversity, protecting heritage sites, creating open leisure spaces and supporting healthier communities Carefully considers the effects of climate change and how to reduce its impacts, including flooding Makes effective use of the borough’s strategic infrastructure, including Loughborough University, the urban edge of Leicester and the International Gateway connection to the M1 motorway and East

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SEPTEMBER 2021 Visit our website at: www.villagewatch.co.uk and join our Group on Facebook

Action Fraud has received a large number of reports about fake emails that purport to be from the NHS. They claim to be able to provide a “digital passport that proves you have been vaccinated against Covid‐19”. These emails contain links that lead to fake websites that are designed to steal your personal and financial information.

Your vaccination status (“passport”) can be obtained FREE OF CHARGE through the official NHS app, the NHS website or by calling the NHS on 119. www.gov.uk/guidance/nhs‐covid‐pass •

The NHS will never ask you for your bank account or card details.

• The NHS will never ask you for your PIN or your passwords.

• The NHS will never ask you to prove your identity by sending copies of personal documents, such as your passport, driving licence, bills or pay slips.

How to report scams: If you receive a call you believe to be fraudulent, hang up. If you are suspicious about an email you have received, report it by forwarding it to: report@phishing.gov.uk A suspicious text messages can be reported by forwarding it to the number: 7726 (free of charge).

www.actionfraud.police.uk.

Local Phone Number?

One of our Members received a telephone call claiming to be from Amazon that they recognised for the scam that it was.

However, they noticed that it came from a local Birstall (267) number and rang it to discover that the call had not come from there.

Scammers use modern technology to trick the telephone system into showing random fake numbers on Caller ID. Initially they did this so that the calls could not be traced but have since developed the technique. They are now able to fake the number to look similar to yours to make you less suspicious. In fact, it could be coming from anywhere in the world.

There is a very good chance, of course, that the number they fake is real, although the actual subscriber is completely unaware that it is being misused in this manner.

If you get a call out of the blue, be extra careful and treat it as a criminal scam until you are sure it is genuine. If in doubt, just ring off. If the call was genuine and important, the caller will find some other way of contacting you.

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Subscribers to the service receive regular email alerts with details of new scams as soon as they are detected, as well as old scams that have re‐appeared.

You can find more information about this extremely useful service at:

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Neighbourhood Watch Signs The long period of lockdown has taken its toll in many ways and has affected our ability to maintain our Neighbourhood Watch signs.

We had several reports about damaged or missing signs early last year to which we were not able to respond. We think that some of them may have got lost in the process! Please accept our apologies.

If you notice a sign that is damaged or has gone missing on your street, please let us know so that we can now address the issue, even if you have already told us about it.

It will help if you can include the approximate house number near to where the sign is located.

The simplest way is by sending us an email to: watch@villagewatch.co.uk but you can also leave us a message on: 0756 2422 756

Our Local Beat Team We would like to welcome PC 1427 Lauren DeWet and PCSO 6637 Ellie Holland who have recently joined the Birstall and Wanlip Dedicated Neighbourhood Team as additional members. If you meet them while they are out on patrol, please stop and say hello.

The Team produces its own monthly Newsletter. It contains details of recent crime in our villages, crime prevention advice and other news about their activities.

If you want to keep up to date on policing issues in Birstall and Wanlip, you can read it in full each month on our website:

www.villagewatch.co.uk/police where you can also sign up to have it sent directly to your mailbox as soon as it is published.

Danger to Wildlife Fishing litter in our waterways, such as discarded lines and hooks, can easily snag water birds and other wildlife, causing terrible injuries, suffering and even death. The RSPCA is urging those who enjoy the sport to be extra careful and to make sure that they do not leave anything behind.

They have five tips for anglers to follow: 1. Take unwanted fishing line home – cut it into pieces before putting it in the bin.

2. Be aware of surrounding trees – discarded line caught in foliage causes problems for wildlife.

3. Never leave bait unattended – remove it from the hook and put it in a safe place.

4. Always use a bait box.

5. Dispose of any litter you see – even if it is not yours.

They added that, while most anglers are very responsible and careful to dispose of their litter safely, it takes only one careless person to endanger an animal’s life. If members of the public see discarded litter, they are encouraged to pick it up safely and put it in a bin, remembering to always wash their hands afterwards.

© Birstall and Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch – watch@villagewatch.co.uk – 0756 2422 756

THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

Covid Passports

New owner at Birstall café

11

BIRSTALL’S CAFÉ-onthe-Corner, on Sibson Road, has a new owner.

Jeanette Armstrong has lived in Birstall all her life and used to run a fruit and veg shop in the village.

“I’ve never run a café before, but it’s always been something I wanted to do,” said Jeanette, who has taken on the existing staff, including cook Belinda.

“The café has a lovely, friendly atmosphere and is a great place to meet for coffee, tea and a cake,” said Jeanette.

“Our new waffles, with cream and a topping, are going really well,” she added.

“We’ve had some lovely feedback from customers, they are pleased someone from Birstall has taken it on, and glad we are keeping it as it is, not making any drastic changes.”

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Jeanette says the Café-onthe-Corner is available for hire for special occasions, like children’s

parties, baby showers or birthday celebrations.

OPEN DAY Enjoy the freedom that no longer being employed brings you.

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Meet and make new friends, take up new interests or revisit old ones!

THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

Club’s ladies are champions THE LADIES of St Margaret's Cooperative Bowls Club can truly claim to be champions after their team defeated Fosse Way in the County Unbadged Double Rink Final held at Narborough on August 1.

The ladies' captain, Pat Dobson, said: “It was a very good competitive game, we started off rather tentatively and fell behind by quite a few points, but once

we were in our stride, really got to grips with the job in hand, winning on both rinks with a combined final score of 32-26.”

In the earlier rounds of the competition, St Margaret's beat teams from Aylestone and Fleckney. Pat added: “It was a great day for our club to win this County competition for the second time, having previously won in 2017. I was very proud of all the ladies who played and for the amazing support we had from club members who had come along to

cheer us on, making it a great day to remember.”

More details at www.smcbc.com Pic: Members of the team from left to right: Carolyn Foster, Joan Hope, Rachel Smith, Jennifer Bellamy, Joan Breward, Chris Townsend, Pat Dobson and Christine Harrison. Standing left is County President Sandra Hall and right is club President Pat Phillips.

Come and see what we have to offer at our Open Day GROSVENOR SNOOKER LOUNGE MELTON ROAD SYSTON WED SEPT 8, 11AM - 2PM

12

YOUR SAY...

Crack the crisis In the next few weeks in the run up to COP26 it is hoped that people in Birstall will consider the issues being raised at this very important meeting of world leaders. We need to ensure that our government is aware that millions of the population of the UK want a lead to be taken in cracking the crises of covid, injustice, climate and nature so providing vaccines and health care for all, fight poverty and injustice and help end the climate and nature crisis. That is why 70 organisations from across the UK are advocating for a better future for people and the planet, have come together in CRACK THE CRISIS. They want us all to tackle these crises by taking individual action, by supporting others and by asking decision-makers to act.

So what can we do - put up homemade ‘hands’ with a message of hope in our windows, photographing them and sending them to wave of hope gallery via the wave of hope website, https://crackthecrises.org, write to our MP let him know of your concerns.

Hopefully, we have started something in Birstall by having a Teddy Bears’ Picnic where children have drawn their hands and written messages of hope, the shops in Birstall are also putting hands in their windows, and there will be as many displays as possible around the village in different ways, so please join in. More details about the national effort can be found at the website address above or for local information: ctcbirstall@outlook.com Josephine Burgess

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Thanks I have now finished the Leicestershire round. There were beautiful views and villages along the way. We were supplied with lovely homemade cakes to keep us going! There were about 23 people (pic-

Development As new residents on Henson Close, I read with interest regards the new development proposed on the green wedge. I would like to know why this did not show up on our search when purchasing our new house, we considered the location a real find and are happy to say we have been made very welcome, so if this new development goes ahead, how are the 7.5tonne and above lorry’s going to transverse around Henson Close and Cliffe Road? I’m not sure any member of the planning committee has even been down our roads, there is no room whatsoever, the bridge over the GCR line would not take the strain of the constant use of such heavy lorries if the access is to come from Greengate Lane, then why even consider opening either Henson Close or Cliffe Road? If this happens then you will have created a lovely rat run, and the traffic count will increase 100%, this will then take the value of

tured above) on the walk, and those sponsorship is still coming in, LOROS has raised about £2500. I want to thank everyone who sponsored me in this venture. I have so far raised £200.

Thank you.

Gillian Bowler our houses in the surrounding area tumbling, consider that residents of Park Road, if this is the case how will we as residents be compensated, the pollution level will go through the roof, and a lot of people will start to become very, very ill with no consideration from the local planning committee, the devastation to the local wildlife would be catastrophic, trees will have to felled, wildlife disrupted, you have blown a big trumpet about the nice wildlife feature in the centre of Birstall, but nothing seems to be being done about the real wildlife on the outskirts of Birstall. I will be voicing my concerns to the planning committee and to the parish council, but the parish council seem to be buried in their own mess to consider the greater things that are happening in and around the village.

Oh dear, have I made a big mistake moving to this fantastic little town, I hope not.

David Headley

The Friends of Belgrave Cemetery are trying to contact relatives of the following: Sarah and Frederick Latham laid to rest in Belgrave Cemetery Sgt Alfred Dodson Leicestershire Regiment 7th Bn Service no 7281 Died 24.12.1917 of wounds aged 32 Pte. Henry Albert Carter Leicestershire Regiment 6th Bn Service no11768 Died 06.12.1914 aged 31 Pte William Carter Leicestershire Regiment 2nd Bn. Service no 11125 Died 13,03.1945 aged 29 Soldiers who lost their lives in WWI, their names recorded on family memorials Unfortunately their fine headstones are lying down. As a conservation group the Friends of Belgrave cemetery would like to restore them to their original upright position, giving them the dignity they richly deserve.

Anyone with information please contact info@friendsofbelgravecemetery.org.uk Dorothy Marshall

Concerns Following on from Sue Hitchcock’s letter in the last Birstall Post regarding issues at Birstall Parish Council, I would also like to express serious concerns. I note that the response from BPC was by the Parish Clerk, paid for from the taxes of Birstall residents, not from the accountable person, the chair of the Parish Council.

Councillor Howe’s ‘crime’, as judged

by Charnwood Borough Council’s independent member conduct panel, was that he was guilty of lack of ‘respect’. It seems that he had also been accused of bullying and intimidation of the Parish Clerk. However, these accusations were dismissed by the independent panel, so the issue that seems to arise is that, according to the panel, unfounded allegations of a serious nature have been made by the Parish Clerk against a serving councillor. What is surprising is the silence of the chair of BPC about this.

Secondly, the panel also highlighted that they had requested that the clerk provide copies of the e-mail correspondence from Cllr Howe, but these had not been provided to the panel. One might think this would be cause for action by the chair.

Thirdly, the panel recommended that Birstall Parish Council should commission a governance review to audit their working practices, a process that is regular in most organisations, both public and private. Not only did the panel point to confusion about the respective roles and responsibilities of the clerk and parish councillors.

Much more seriously, the panel said “there were some questions over issues of transparency, scrutiny and public accountability relating to financial and budgetary matters” In other words, the panel questioned how taxpayers’ monies are being dealt with by the council.

Hill Rise, Birstall, Leicester

0116 2108591 or 0780 8259437

Continued on page 13

THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

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

Belgrave cemetery

THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

Continued from page 12

Again, one asks: what is the chair of the council doing about this very serious matter regarding the handling of public funds? At the moment, the answer is to keep things secret from the public and to keep things secret from most of the councillors.

Despite the above role of the chair of BPC, there are a number of councillors who have been calling for a governance review, in order to address the very serious matters highlighted by the independent panel, although so far blocked from even discussing the matter. There are other councillors who should be reviewing their roles and responsibilities as Birstall councillors, by seeking to restore Birstall residents’ trust and confidence in the Parish Council, through a governance review. Of course, there is a final point of accountability in a democracy, which is that councillors should face the judgement of residents at the ballot box.

R Vincent Please note that this is not a response from the council itself. It is from me as Chair because the letter relates personally to me in my elected role. I wish to point out that I have acted appropriately and within my powers.

A Chair of a parish council is not legally empowered or even allowed to take the kind of executive decisions that the writer seems to want me to take.

Most matters have to be dealt with through the council's decision making structures.

All parish councils have duties to their employees, including respecting their rights to be able to freely raise concerns about their employment with their employer whilst protecting their personal data. These matters between employee and employer are not shared publicly and that is normal and good practice.

Concerns raised by the Clerk were quite rightly considered by the council in confidence.

It is worth pointing out that the Code of Conduct Hearing referred to by the writer resulted from a self-referral to the Monitoring Officer by Cllr Howe himself and not the council's Clerk. Cllr Howe was found to have breached the Code of Conduct by the panel in that he did not treat the Clerk with respect.

The panel made this decision based on the evidence of an independent report commissioned by the Monitoring Officer.

I have total confidence in the way that the council deals with taxpayers money. Financial rules and regulations are in place and adhered to. In fact, I can report that we have just received news that the government-appointed external audit has met all requirements.

The writer or any other resident is welcome to make an appointment to visit the Council Offices and inspect the accounts.

Cllr Ann Marshall Chair of Birstall Parish Council

Noticeboard all details printed free Open Church At St Leonard's Swithland Saturday 11th September 2pm 4pm Join us for a cup of tea and slice of cake, have a wander around our very interesting churchyard or simply enjoy the peace and tranquillity of our lovely church.

You will be very welcome

Birstall Carpet Bowls

Come to our open morning for a game of carpet bowls.

Friendly crowd and fun.

Venue: Birstall Village Hall Tuesday 14 September 10-12am.

Further information ring June2109344 or Sylvia -2913163

Birstall & District Art Society Tuesday, 14th September, 7pm You are invited to join us at the Palmer-Tomkinson Centre at Cedars Academy, Wanlip Lane, when we welcome the return of professional artist Deborah Bird who will give a slideshow “From sketchbook to finished painting”. Do join us for what promises to be a fun evening. Refreshments available at the interval. Newcomers and visitors most welcome. Demonstration ends at 9pm. Members £2; Guests £4. Free raffle. Ample parking.

Birstall Walking Group Apologies for incorrect telephone number in August edition. The correct number is below.

Now the Covid restrictions are being eased we are starting our walks itinerary again.

The five-mile circular walks are mainly in Leicestershire and Rut-

land with a few in Derbyshire.

Walkers meet every other Thursday at the chosen pub and return afterwards for a social time over a pre ordered lunch.

Members are expected to complete 10 or more walks a year and lead one or two of them.

You need to feel able to walk in all weathers, different terrains and to walk at a moderate pace.

Come and try a couple of walks for size and make new friends. If interested phone the chairperson on 0116 267 4235

Birstall Royal British Legion club All old and new members will be very welcome Bingo every Tuesday starting at 9pm Quizzes every Wednesday starting at 8.30pm and Sundays at 9pm Pool tables at only 50p Saturday Entertainment 4th September female vocalist Suzie Welsh 25th September male vocalist Adam James With the card game and key of the box so come and try your luck Kitchen open on Saturday 4th and 11th September Room hire available for Wakes

Film Presentations Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council We hope you have all enjoyed the summer 2021.

We realise that many of you still have tickets for ‘Downton Abbey’.

Our Parish Council will be meeting in September. Now that some Covid restrictions have been lifted,

councillors will discuss the possibility of resuming monthly film presentations, starting this winter 2021/2022.

We look forward to bringing you more film news in the next issue of the Birstall Post

England's largest festival of history and culture, bringing together over 2,000 local people and organisations, and thousands of volunteers. Every year in September, places across the country throw open their doors to celebrate their heritage, community and history.

It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – and it’s all FREE. Heritage Open Days 2021: 10-19 September For a listing of local venues, go to www.heritageopendays.org.uk

Parkinson's Support Group Do you suffer from Parkinson's disease?

Are you relative, carer or friend of someone with Parkinsons?

Then this is the place for you!

The local Parkinson's support group have started their meetings again.

Every 2nd Tuesday of the month at the Syston Community Centre School Lane, Syston, LE7 1HN, 2-4pm Come along, have a chat over a cuppa, exchange ideas and experiences, Guest speakers, anything from Owls to ukulele's.

All will be welcome.

For further information contact Helen Ball on 0116 2677487

Christmas Fair Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Rd Sat Nov 13, 10am-2pm Tables are available For: Pay it Forward in our Community, Birstall & Jade’s Retreat Facebook: helping our community LE4 Birstall

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13

NHW news

& crime report August Priorities During August we continued to focus our patrols on the Hallam Fields Industrial Estate, as we have had some more complaints about vehicles being driven in an Anti-Social manner in this area.

Long-term, we will be working with the owner of the Industrial Estate to try and resolve these issues, but, in the meantime, our plan is to patrol the area as much as possible to try and deter such behaviour and identify the vehicles & drivers involved. Please help us by reporting any incidents so that we can try to attend at the time & obtain vehicle & driver details.

We will also be patrolling the area around Wanlip Church due to some reports about Anti-Social behaviour and damage occurring in this area, as well as the open land near to Hallam Fields Primary School, due to some reports of motorbikes being ridden around this area in the evenings.

Crime Update I am writing this report a few days early this month, however at the time of writing (27/7/21), we’ve had a total of 39 crimes reported to us. We’ve had 18 reports of assault (the majority of which have occurred in domestic settings), 7 reports of damage (including 1 report of vehicle damage), 5 Public Order incidents, 4 reports of theft, 2 house burglaries, 1 theft from vehicle, 1 report of robbery and 1 ‘weapons possession’ offence.

Some of you may have read about an incident this month when several people were struck with pellets from an air rifle whilst on Loughborough Road. Enquiries in relation to this are still ongoing, however I can report that no one was seriously injured as a result, and an air rifle has been seized for examination.

In relation to the robbery, this occurred on July 4 on Meadow Lane when a 15-year-old male had his bike stolen.

If you have any information about either of these incidents, please get in touch with us either by calling 101 or contacting us via our website. For further crime information, please visit: www.police.uk/leicestershire/NL60/ Crime Prevention Advice We are aware that, in recent weeks, there have been a number of complaints about e-scooters being ridden around the village. For those of you who are not aware of these, they are basically scooters with electric motors attached, and some are capable of travelling at speeds of up to 15—20 mph.

The majority of people using these are behaving sensibly, however, unfortunately, while they may seem like a quick, cheap and environmentally friendly way to get around, they are actually illegal to use on the public highway as they require the rider to have a licence & insurance, which it is not possible to get at this time.

Please be advised that if you own one of these e-scooters, you can only use it on PRIVATE LAND and only then if you have the landowner's permission. The Police can seize these scooters under the Road Traffic Act if they are being used on the public highway, which includes pavements & cycleways.

Some cities are trialling hire schemes whereby these scooters can be hired by people over the age of 18, however, Leicestershire is not involved in any such scheme at present, so please DO NOT use these scooters on public land in Leicestershire otherwise you could find

City Dance Club

Dancing Classes at Co-op Sports & Social Club Birstall Road, Birstall LE4 4DE

Adult Class : Modern Sequence Instruction After 16 months of no dancing due to Covid restrictions, instruction will be on the dances you may have forgotten and some new dances which you may like to learn.

Weekly Wednesday evenings from 7.30 to 8.30pm (1 hour) £5 per person

New Class for Children: Strictly Ballroom, Latin & Free Style Starts Sat Sept 18, 2021, 10 to 11am (1hr) : £25 for 5 weeks with first lesson free

Further info: Kath 0116 2304115 / 07798 713560 For more City Dance Club dances: www.areyoudancing.com

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yours being seized.

Events At present, the beat team do not have any forthcoming events planned, however, we do intend to complete another street consultation event soon. This will probably be in the area of Lyngate Avenue, Sandgate Avenue and Wellgate Avenue due to the fact we had to cancel the one previously arranged for these streets.

Please keep an eye on our Twitter page (@CharnwoodPolice) for details of when this will take place.

You can also get in touch with us via phone, email or through the Leicestershire Police website. Neighbourhood Link is also a free & easy way of finding out what is happening on the beat and what the Police are doing in your local area. Sign up now at:www.neighbourhoodlink.co.uk Message from Sgt Bird I am the dedicated neighbourhood Sergeant for Birstall & Wanlip & have been a Police officer for 22 years. I have previous experience as a beat officer myself and hope to bring my many experiences of Policing to the role. I am keen to hear about what the people of Birstall and Wanlip would like to see from their local Police so we can all work together to tackle any identified issues.

This month I am pleased to welcome a new Beat officer to the Birstall & Wanlip Beat. PC 1427 Lauren DeWet joins us with a wealth of experience and will be a great asset to the team. We are also hoping to have a new PCSO join us as well, meaning that we will be better placed to respond to incidents on the beat, and be able to deal with the issues that matter to the local community.

Message from PC Jaeckels This month the beat team have been out and about patrolling the Hallam Fields Industrial Estate due to some concerns about Anti-Social Behaviour occurring in this area. We will continue to do this over the coming weeks to try & identify the people involved.

We have also dealt with an incident whereby a large decorative planter in Sibson Road was damaged. This may seem like a relatively trivial matter, however, I know that it caused a lot of anger & upset for those who were involved in getting it installed. A local person has been spoken to about this and has been dealt with by way of a community resolution.

As mentioned by PS Bird, a new Police Officer has recently joined the Birstall Beat and will be a great addition to the team. Pc 1427 Lauren DeWet will be out & about in the village in the coming weeks, so please stop & chat with her if you have anything you wish to discuss.

Get into Good Habits The lifting of lockdown restrictions is giving us long-awaited opportunities to spend more time away from home.

Whether we are visiting friends or going on holiday, we shall probably be leaving our homes unoccupied for longer periods than many of us did last winter. The days will be getting shorter as we move into autumn and winter, just as we are going out more.

House burglars will be looking forward to homes being empty. In the winter months, they use the longer period

of darkness to cover their activities and to identify homes that are unoccupied.

That is why we advise you to use devices such as timer switches to make your home look occupied even when you are out.

This advice applies all year round, of course. We all welcome the warm weather when we can open windows and doors and let some fresh air into our homes. But, when left unattended, they provide easy access to those who want to steal our property. Even when you are in the next room, it can take only seconds for valuable articles to be stolen. It is not uncommon for people to come in from a spell in the garden, only to find that they have been burgled in this manner.

Always be very careful about leaving open windows unattended, even if they are only ajar. Criminals will not think twice about breaking the mechanism to gain access and will not distinguish them from a door in order to break into your home.

If you are leaving home, even if it is only for a few minutes, close and lock all doors and windows and turn on your burglar alarm.

Take a few minutes to think like a thief and ‘case’ your own property. Ask yourself how would you break in, if you were a burglar?

Use your imagination and keep one step ahead of potential thieves.

Are there windows that are easy to climb through from ground level?

Are there upstairs windows that can be reached from a conservatory roof, for example?

Are your windows and doors easy to open from the outside?

Do you have extra security locks fitted and do you use them all the time?

Do you always set your burglar alarm?

Do you always keep your side gate locked?

Are your sheds and outbuildings secure?

Do you leave ladders and tools lying about that a burglar could use?

It is a sad fact of life that we have to think like this. However, if we spot things ourselves and put them right, they will not be there for a thief to exploit.

Just be alert, take simple precautions and stay safe.

Ed Chambers, Committee Chairman

PALLATT BROS. Ltd Corgi Gas Reg. Installers THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

14

Helping our community THE HELPING Our Community Birstall group continues to share information and support people in our community.

Co-founder Rosie Rollings reports: Following the distraction burglary and scam, a local builder came forward and completed the work needed free of charge. This restored faith in two elderly vulnerable people. A huge thank you goes out to John Klein of Borg Timber.

He showed such compassion and under-

possibly a charity, in the future for Birstall and Wanlip. Following on from the success with Christmas meals last year, we had money left over. This has been used to provide cooked hot meals for people leaving hospital. We provided a special tea for a couple’s diamond wedding. Many more kind gestures could become part of this “pay it forward

standing, and I’m sure his kindness will not be forgotten.

Going forward Going forward with the group, it would be great if we could start a fund,

initiative”, and we hope people will consider supporting this.

We would also like to continue to support local charities. We have worked closely and raised money for Jade’s Retreat. The idea of exchanging and giving time is great, but sadly with DBS checks needed, it’s not something that we could be responsible for. We have facilitated families meeting volunteers and it has worked very well, but ultimately the decision is the families. However, we can do many kind gestures for very little outlay. We would also like to hear your suggestions.

We make quilts and have gifted many in the community as “comfort quilts”, these have been gifted to people who need to attend hospital regularly or new wheelchair users. We really want the items we make to be gifted back to the community. Dementia quilts and twiddle toys have already been a big success.

Poppies We will again be supporting the Royal

British legion by making poppies. If you 15 can help knit, crochet or sew poppies, could you please let us have them by October 14. Wool is also available.

Christmas Fair We are holding a Christmas fair at the Village Hall on November 12, this is to start our “pay it forward” fund, and for Jade’s retreat. There will be many different independent stalls, also our stalls with handmade items from talented locals and the Birstall and Wanlip WI. There will also be refreshments, a tombola and a raffle.

If you could help by providing cakes/mince pies, tombola or raffle prizes, we would be grateful. We would need raffle and tombola items by November 10 and cakes on the 11th. We look forward to seeing you there.

We approached the Parish Council to see if they would discount the cost of the village hall for our event. This request was taken to the council meeting, and it was decided to offer the room free of charge. Thanks go to Birstall Parish Council.

Bowling club compete at national championships

THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

BOWLERS FROM Birstall Bowling Club have “Birstall Bowling Club Facebook” into a search engine, or you can call Steve on recently been busy playing competitions 07870 327568. to qualify for the national championships, currently taking place in Leamington Spa.

A YARNBOMB postbox topper that appeared in Birstall has an Olympic theme.

The colourful creation appeared overnight on the postbox on the corner of Park Road and Fielding Road.

Players from the club are involved in eight events, with three already completed. A report on the other five competitions will be in October’s Birstall Post.

Jan Everitt and Pa Walker were beaten by Caroline Cullum and Amy Gowshall from Cleethorpes, 10-20 in the ladies pairs first round. Jan, Pa and Di Hurst were also up against Cullum, Gowshall and Kirsty Cox in the triples, again losing out in the first round by the same score.

Roger Cooper and Shane Hayes, the county champions, lost out 14-17 in the preliminary round of the men’s pairs to Tim Jupp and Craig Morphett from Carterton, Oxfordshire.

In other competitions, Roger Cooper and Richard Smith have both reached the men’s county over 60s singles final which is being played later this month.

Richard also got to the semi-final of the men’s secretary’s singles, Pa Walker was a quarter-finalist in the ladies two wood singles and Janet Wildbore was a quarter-finalist in the ladies unbadged singles. The men were runners up to Blaby in the Leicester League following a playoff between the three group winners, with Leicester finishing third.

Meanwhile, a coffee morning took place at the club recently, with £300 being raised for this year’s Presidents Kathy Pateman and Mervyn King’s chosen charity, the Meningitis Research Foundation.

The season will be coming to a close at the end of this month but new members are always welcome, and more information about the club can be found on the club’s website www.birstallbowlingclub.co.uk on the Facebook page, which you can find by typing

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Pic: Michael Green on his coastal walk

Coastal walk raises funds 79-YEAR-OLD Birstall man, Michael Green, completed the 83 mile Norfolk coastal path in a week, raising £1600 for cancer charity Macmillan Michael walked from Hunstanton to

Hopton-on-Sea in July. He says the highlights of the walk were the lovely people he met and the wildlife. “Walking on the shingle beach to Sheringham was tiring, though,” he said.

An experienced long-distance walker, Michael has previously walked the 290

mile Macmillan Way from Boston to Dorset.

The retired decorator, who lives on Holt Road, has been raising funds for Macmillan for years, having lost his father, stepsister and stepbrother to cancer.

Gym members run around park MORE THAN 100 people, age 3 to 65, took part in a fundraising charity run for Gunns’ Gym around Watermead Country Park on Sunday August 8.

“It was a terrific turnout, considering it was pouring with rain,” said Carl Gunns.

After the run, an event in Birstall Village Hall featured a raffle, entertainment from singer Clayton Gilbert, and free refreshments made and served by parents of gym members.

Carl said: “I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again – my gym has the best par-

ents in the world, they do so much to support the gym. It was a very successful day.”

Reflecting on the last 18 months, Carl said: “It’s been a hard year, but when the gym was in danger of closing last November, there was a terrific response from the public.

“Now I’m optimistic about the future of the gym new members are

appearing every week who are putting new life into the place.”

Pics: Gym members enjoy a post-run social event in the Village Hall

Cricket club news BIRSTALL’S ONLY test cricketer has passed away at the age of 72.

Mike Hendrick moved to Birstall in 1964 after his father Bill took a job locally. Bill was a regular in the side and one day, the team were one short and Mike stepped in to play. The rest, you could say, is history. He won the clubs first ever single wicket competition in 1965, and was on trial for Leicestershire at the time.

Club president Ian Hunt remembers playing with him in his own first season in 1967, and scoring his first ever runs while batting with him. “I was only 13 and batted at number 11.

We needed six to win when I had to go in to bat with four balls remaining in the over, Mike’s words were block out the over as I will get the runs. I managed to get a two to fine leg and blocked out the remaining balls. First Pic: Mike Hendrick ball next over Mike hit a six over square leg to win the match.”

Leicestershire thought he was not quite good enough and he joined Derbyshire and went on to play 30 test matches for England, 87 wickets and a world cup final appearance, suggesting that whoever made the decision not to offer him a contract got it slightly wrong.

Meanwhile, with four games of the season left, the 2nd XI sit top of the table, two other teams can pip them for the championship, Uppingham and Aryans, and they provide the club with their final two games of the season so exciting times.

The 1st XI sit comfortably in midtable, with eight wins and eight losses to their name, and they will be looking to finish the season on a high.

From Birstall Village Cricket Club

THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

16

Ramblers Carers providing support LEICESTER & District Ramblers have reinstated their programme of walks.

Club spokesman Dave Wheeler said: “Our members have been turning out with growing confidence for our short, half-day and all-day walks.

“I personally recently sampled one of our Thursday morning walks - this was a shade under six miles. The expectations that I had for this walk, from Ab Kettleby in this case, were all met, including being well led by one of our many experienced walk leaders Paul. The bonus on this occasion was the prospect of sharing a well-earnt lunch at the villages Sugar Loaf Inn with fellow walkers, a timely reminder that quite apart from the obvious health and fitness aspects that the sociability and camaraderie of rambling remain intact!”

The group welcomes new members – search facebook for LeicesterandDistrictRamblers for more information.

A BIRSTALL woman is using her own positive experiences to appeal to more people to become Shared Lives carers.

For more than 10 years, Hayley, from Birstall, has played a big part in helping to care for Maxine and wants to encourage more county residents to make ‘a space in their lives’ for adults who need that extra support.

The county council’s Shared Lives carer scheme supports adults with learning disabilities, mental health problems or other needs that make it harder for them to live on their own.

Maxine lives with Hayley and her family. Hayley said: “I became involved with the Shared Lives service when I was a second carer for my mum and decided to make it my full-time work – I’ve loved it.

“Maxine has been with me for nearly 13 years now, and she has really fitted well into the family and has given my children a different outlook, they’ve grown up with Maxine being part of their life.

“We have a great relationship and love

Pic: Shared Lives carer Hayley with Maxine

doing things together, especially shopping. Maxine has come a long way in that time and is quite independent and has her own unique ways."

There are many different types of shared lives carer, some carers live with the person they care for full time, some offer short breaks for days or weeks or are daytime support for someone on a one-to-one basis or groups.

Maxine said: “I like living here with

Discover more about cemetery sites AS THEIR contribution to the national Heritage Open Day festival (10-19th September), Belgrave Heritage Trust and Friends of Belgrave Cemetery have joined forces to offer visitors a new way to discover more about two local burial sites.

“Belgrave Cemetery and the churchyard of St Peter’s church in Belgrave contain fine examples of the work of generations of stonemasons, and both have many stories to tell, connecting them to the local area,” says event organiser Nick Fathers.

He added: “Want to hear about the family responsible for naming many Leicester streets and the man who sang in his grave? Well now, the Heritage Trust and the ‘Friends’ will be using computer technology to tell visitors a little more about the history of their sites and those who lie buried there.”

During the festival, each site will display, at key locations, notices containing QR codes and by pointing a smartphone at the code, visitors will be able to hear a commentary describing a little more about what can be found at this location. Full details at https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/visit ing

THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

HANNAH CLARKE FOR ALMSHOUSES A READER has sent us this photo of the new 5G mast erected in Birstall, at the junction of Greengate Lane and the A6 The overall performance rate of 5G networks is said to be up to 100 times faster than that of 4G. 5G uses higher frequency waves so more devices can be connected to it, and have faster internet speeds.

However, they require more transmitter masts to enable the technology.

The almshouses has a vacancy of a one bedroom flat, well situated with an open outlook over the golf course, and is maintained to a high standard by the Trustees.

The property is of a sheltered nature and is suitable for a lady of 60 years plus. It is situated in Park Road, Birstall.

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Hayley. I like to help out and love going shopping with Hayley and buying new clothes. We also socialise together, and I enjoy working at charity shops and meeting all the customers.”

Shared Lives carers are self-employed so have the flexibility to carry on working in an existing job. They can work from home or stay at home to raise their children.

Christine Radford, Leicestershire County Council cabinet member for adults and communities, said: “Our 'Shared Lives’ carers are so valuable.

Spending time with people in their communities can help our adults in social care learn valuable skills and make friends for life.

“Becoming a Shared Lives carer is a great way to give back to your community, do something with a real sense of purpose and accomplishment while earning money and fitting your work around your own schedule.”

To find out more about becoming a Shared Lives carer, contact the county council team on sharedlives@leics.gov.uk or call 0116 305 8133

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Wreake Valley results “OUR STUDENTS have secured very strong results,” says Tim Martson, headteacher at Wreake Valley Academy, Roundhill Academy and Bradgate Sixth Form.

Reflecting on the GCSE and A level results days in August, Mr Marston said: “The results demonstrate a significant year on year improvement but also reflect the adapted methodology for grades being awarded.

“The fact is that our students secured the results they deserved. The results open up opportunities for students to make choices about what they are going to do next.

“Well done to everyone for what they “Although no one quite remembers achieved, and a huge thank you to everyexactly, it is very close to the 25th anniversary of the badminton club and some body for helping make this happen.”

More than 100 students from both of players have played for the 25 years,” said club spokesman Richard Antkowiak. secondary schools have opted to continue their studies at Bradgate Sixth Form Pic: the badminton club reunion (B6) next year. These students have chosen to follow a school-based academic route based in the B6 buildings at the Wreake Valley Academy site.

This year 27% of the B6 cohort enrolled at the best universities from right across the country - the Russell Group Universities. This is an increase from 10% in 2020 and 4% in 2019.

Badminton club’s reunion Fosseway bowls club in Syston had invited the badminton club to join them in a bowls match, and after some competitive play the ladies of the bowls club followed this with a supper that they had organised.

Charity superstore OUR LOCAL air ambulance charity opened the doors in July to its biggest superstore, The Hanger, in Beaumont Leys.

The superstore, located in the Beaumont Shopping Centre, Bradgate Mall, is in the unit previously occupied by Next.

It has undergone a substantial transformation, and now the 20,000 sq ft space is the charity’s third and biggest superstore to date, offering customers a large range and quantity of goods, as well as a donation station to make it easier for people to drop off their donations.

The grand opening was attended by charity staff, volunteers, crew, and the official mascot Blade. As the ribbon was

cut, visitors were welcomed in and had the opportunity to have a look around the superstore split over two floors and shop the extensive variety of new and pre-loved homeware, furniture, electricals, clothing, entertainment, and brandnew white goods for sale.

The charity – which operates the 24/7 frontline Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA) – relies on donations and income from its stores to remain operational, saving lives across Leicestershire and further afield.

“It’s great to be able to open our doors to the Leicestershire community today – and on behalf of the charity – I’d like to say a massive thank you to our local communities as we have already received such wonderful support,” says the charity’s Head of Retail, Gemma Ingram.

The superstore opening follows this year’s launch of the lifesaving service’s brand-new replacement aircraft – so support for them at this time is essential as they attend up to ten potentially lifesaving missions per day, with each mission costing £1,700.

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Grants given to Birstall groups

BIRSTALL GROUPS have benefited from funding in the latest round of councillor grants.

For the 2021/22 financial year, each Charnwood borough councillor is allocated an annual budget of £500, used to support projects that bring benefits to their ward.

Organisations currently running projects with community benefit in Charnwood are invited to apply for a minimum of £250 per member, and up to a maximum of £500, and applications may be made to more than one member. Birstall has four Borough Councillors. Funding can be provided towards community events, activities, equipment or team kits, uniformed groups such as Scouts, Guides, Cubs and Brownies.

For the financial year 2020/21 the following organisations were supported by Birstall’s Borough Councillors: Birstall United Junior FC £500 Birstall Business Co-operative £250 Birstall Tennis Club £750 Birstall Squadron Air Cadets £250 Birstall Rainbows £250 Applications are open and you should contact your local Borough Councillor to discuss your project prior to sending in an application.

Applications close February 28, 2022.

More information can be found on the Charnwood Borough Council webpage https://www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages/ member_grants

Volunteer centre SYSTON AND District Volunteer Centre has announced plans to resume social activities such as minibus trips, excursions and community lunches.

The first of their regular monthly lunches, at Beedles Lake Golf Club on Monday September 13, will be followed by the Centre’s Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Full details of these events, including costs, how to book places and transport, together with some necessary Covidrelated precautions which will remain in place, have been sent to all members.

The AGM allows members to judge and express an opinion on how well the Centre’s affairs have been managed over the past year. The constitution of the Centre requires all trustees to retire at the AGM with the opportunity to offer to serve for another year. Members are invited to consider volunteering - or to nominating any other member - to join the Board of Trustees for the year ahead.

Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Paul Lomas, says: “We know just how much many of our members have been looking forward to the resumption of Centre social activities such as the lunches, trips and excursions. We are doing everything possible to make this happen as quickly as possible while continuing to take necessary steps to protect and ensure everyone’s safety from any threat that the Covid pandemic might continue to offer.”

Anyone seeking further information about, or wishing to take part in Centre activities, should contact the Centre office (0116 2607 888 email: info@syston-vc.org).

THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

24 FORMER and current members of Birstall and Wanlip badminton club, now known as North West Leicestershire badminton club, held a reunion in August.

News from the churches Our churches in Birstall and Wanlip certainly seem to be 'up and running' again - perhaps we have been spurred on by the recent Olympic Games and the amazing enthusiasm and energy shown by our athletes, which has burst into our living rooms through the television.

Bears’ Challenge St James Sunday school burst out with their picnic and a ginormous and very colourful 'Welcome back' cake, and a walk in Watermead Park (not on the same day!). They now have planned a Church Bears’ Challenge on Wanlip Lawn on Monday August 30, (2-5 pm). There will be 101 bears, all up for Captain Tom's Challenge, and each bear will bring a donation that will contribute to Wanlip Church and to 'Save the Children'.

The bears will also provide refreshments and help with decorating items for the 'Crack the Climate Crisis' initiative. The bears would love lots of people to come and join in and help with these arts and crafts.

Ride & Stride Riding and Striding are also again on the agenda, with both of our churches involved, on Saturday September 11.

Both churches will be open from 10am to 6pm, with hosts to welcome all riders and striders, and provide what will probably be very well-deserved refreshments.

If you would like to be a 'rider' or a 'strider', please contact a Churchwarden; John Borrajo at St James, or Debbie Shephard at Our Lady and St Nicholas.

Churchwardens can be contacted on 07570 198810, and they can provide you with sponsorship forms. Money from the sponsorship will be divided between the Parish church and the Historic Churches Foundation, to help keep our beautiful and historic English churches for future generations to enjoy and in which to worship.

Cleaning Does anybody enjoy cleaning?

There is going to be a very special clean, scrub and sparkly polish of St James' Church on Wednesday September 8, and Monday September 13, between 2 and 4pmon each day, in preparation for our new Rector's (Amanda's) induction service on Wednesday September 15.

Tea and coffee will be provided to bolster flagging energy levels if you feel the need!

As you can see, we really are 'up and running'.

From Birstall Parish Churches

Welcome to New Ministers Birstall Methodist Church warmly welcomes the new Rector, Amanda Digman, to the Anglican Churches of Birstall & Wanlip. In the local Methodist Circuit, there are three new faces: Rev Liam Dacre-Davis, Rev Israel Selvanayagam, and Deacon Sharon Dilley.

Methodist weekday coffee shop Many Birstall folk will be delighted to hear that the Coffee Shop will soon be opening for four days each week, which used to be the case pre-Covid. Huge thanks are due to those who have been opening for a couple of days each week during August - thank you. The church is grateful to Julie Tinley, who takes over the coordinating role from September, and to all the wonderful volunteer bakers and servers, who offer their time regularly to ensure that there is a safe, welcoming place to meet. For simplicity, every item sold is being charged at £1.

Volunteers are always welcome. Especially as, for the time being, it will be ‘table service’ only.

Vacancies to fill As we slowly begin to try to get round to some form of normality, as Covid

begins to recede, our Minister, Rev Paula, has reminded the Methodist Congregation of some of the roles within the life of the church that need to be filled.

One such role was for someone to organise the weekday coffee shop, and as you read in the above paragraph, Julie has kindly volunteered. In the annual Covenant Service, we hear the minister say, “Christ has many services to be done”, and it's true! The community of faith relies on people with a huge variety of gifts and skills. Not everyone has the gifts needed to be a Pastoral Visitor. Not everyone has the knack of making others feel welcome. The Methodist Church does not expect anyone to be able to do everything, but it does need people who are willing to offer something. By the time this appears in print, we pray some of the ‘vacancies’ will have been filled.

Health & Safety Throughout the pandemic, much care has been taken within the church to avoid the spread of this virus. As groups begin to open up, there is a need for each to prepare ‘risk assessments’ and the opportunity has been taken to make these assessments ‘all encompassing’ to cover other risks than just Covid-19.

Although preparing such documents can seem a bit tiresome the church is fortunate to have an expert in this field. Gra-

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From Birstall Methodist Church

Services At the time of writing, we are unsure when we will be able to restart meeting at The Cedars Academy, so please phone us for information on our venue: 0116 2214883, or check our website: http://www.birstallbaptistchurch.org.uk.

We meet each Sunday (except 5th) at 10.45am, and you will be most welcome to join with us.

The Comforter This is the name given to the Holy Spirit by the Lord Jesus Christ (e.g. in John 14:16; 15:26), who told His followers that after He was gone from them (i.e. after the crucifixion, resurrection and ascension), the Father and He would send the ‘Comforter’ (or ‘Helper’) to be with them. This Person, who is equally God with the Father and Son, has many tasks, including living with and in believers from the moment of conversion, being a guarantee of their eternal inheritance; of teaching the things of God and guiding into all truth, always pointing to the Lord Jesus Christ; of sanctifying believers and helping with their prayers when words fail them. With such a catalogue of help, it is no wonder that so many hymn-writers start with the word ‘Come’, asking to know more of the work and presence of this Comforter.

Joseph Hart (1712-1768)’s hymn ‘Come, Holy Spirit, come’ is typical. It calls on the Holy Spirit to ‘dispel the sorrow from our minds’ and ‘cheer our desponding hearts’; to ‘revive our drooping faith’, ‘convince us of our sin, then lead to Jesus’ blood’, to ‘reveal the secret love of God’, to ‘sanctify the soul’ and ‘pour fresh life in every part’.

Joseph was born in London and became a teacher of languages. He had a Christian upbringing, but it wasn’t until he was 45 (in 1757) that he was converted, and over the next two years he composed all his hymns. In 1759 he became a minister at an independent chapel, and his preaching attracted large congregations, but he died at the early age of 56. If you would like to know more about the Holy Spirit and His work, then please contact us.

From Birstall Independent Baptist Church

THE BIRSTALL POST SEP 2021

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Birstall BAG’s cancer corner More about the charity behind your group is usually held on the 2nd and 4th regular Cancer Corner Wednesday of each month, 1.30-4.30pm It is ten years since Birstall BAGs at Wanlip Village Hall. started writing this regular feature in the Other groups BAGs support include Birstall Post. We thought this would be a The Mayflower Group, led by local lady good time to give Birstall folk a brief Nicky Carling, a complementary therapist reminder and update on the charity’s and counsellor. During these sessions, background, work and activities. individuals are able to learn coping Clare Wells, founder of BAGS, was strategies, share worries and concerns diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 1998. with others in a similar situation, gain Her determination to encourage all wom- support and learn techniques to relax en to be vigilant, to self-examine and to access medical care as soon as possible, inspired the formation of a Birstall Breast Awareness Groups, aka BAGS, a local fundraising social group.

Clare’s cancer recurred, and sadly she died in 2003, but with the help of many significant supporters and the wider Birstall comPic: from the Birstall Post, June 2011. Ladies from Birstall munity, five of her BAGS present a bladder scanner to UH Leicester close friends have carried on with her vision. To reflect the mind. the breadth of support the charity has We work in collaboration with Prosreceived and to meet the needs of our taid to provide a local support group for community, the charity became inclusive prostate cancer patients and their of all cancers several years ago. families - the group meets To date, in the region of £60,000 on the 1st Wednesday of has been donated to local cancer servic- each month, from 7es. Your donations have funded scanners, 9pm at Birstall Golf Club. room refurbishments, gowns, examinaAnd finally, we have tion equipment and essential supplies for collaborated with people accessing the University Hospitals LOROS to provide beof Leicester and LOROS cancer services. reavement support Since September 2010, the Birstall through a group that BAGs have funded the running of ‘Time allows those who’ve been beOut’, a Coping With Cancer drop-in reaved due to a life-limiting or complementary therapy group. Although terminal illness such as motor neurone it has been closed due to Covid-19, the disease, COPD, heart disease or cancer,

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to share their experiences with others in a similar situation.

In normal times, BAGs hold a variety of annual events to bring the community together to have a bit of fun and raise awareness and funds; events have included a sponsored walk/run, a pink ladies night and a live band evening. Local businesses and clubs have continuously supported us too, including Birstall United, Advanced Labels and Print, The White Horse, The Dining Room, The Earl of Stamford, Birstall Social Club, Birstall Cricket club, Birstall Golf Club, Unique Hairdressers, Aroma Spice, Birstall Fisheries and a team from Samworth Brothers. There have also been several families that have really gone above and beyond; their personal cancer experiences inspiring them to do all they can to help others, from extraordinary sports challenges, head shaves, team events, coffee mornings and skydives, to name but a few. Rest assured, whatever people have donated and done to support the charity, it has all gone directly to help our community within our local cancer services.

Half of us will develop cancer at some time during our life and, of course, any of us can be affected. In an attempt to continue with our founder Clare’s vision to raise awareness, to encourage early diagnosis and urge people to be vigilant, the Birstall BAGs have provided this monthly feature in The Birstall Post.

If you have any requests for the content of this article please contact the Birstall BAGs by email birstallbags@hotmail.com or the editor at the Birstall Post. If you have ideas about how the BAGs can support local cancer services we would also be delighted to hear from you.

A huge thank you to all the BAGs supporters, donors and fundraisers over the 23 years we have been together.

Thank you also to Jerry at the Birstall Post for always being keen to help us.

We look forward to getting back out into the community and restarting our groups and events over the coming months.

For local support and information about cancer services, please contact:University Hospitals of Leicester Cancer Information Centre on 0116 258 6189 For more information on the funds Birstall BAGs have raised, the projects we support and forthcoming events, see www.birstallbags.co.uk, look us up on Facebook or email birstallbags@hotmail.co.uk

We have connected with large transport group

P/21/1889/2: 84 Roman Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4BE The erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 8 m, with a maximum height of 3.9m, and height to the eaves of 2.9m.

P/21/1862/2: 267 Birstall Road Birstall LE4 4DJ False Acacia Overhanging Church and threat to Building - removal of overhang P/21/1838/2: 43 Bridge Green Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3LB Two storey side extension with dormer window P/21/1810/2: 17 Park Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3AX The siting of a caravan for ancillary use P/21/1783/2: 13 Hollytree Avenue Birstall LE4 4LG retropective application, single storey side and rear extension,roof alterations for existing porch including new canopy P/21/1782/2: 473 Loughborough Road Birstall LE4 4BJ removal or variation of condiition of P/20/0505/2 Erection of detached house and triple garage to rear P/21/1773/2: 14 Perseverance Road Birstall LE4 4AU The erection of a doublestorey side extension P/21/1756/2: 23 Spinney Rise Birstall LE4 3DY Single Storey Extension and Garage Conversion with re-roof over Garage section P/21/1691/2: 87 Stonehill Avenue Birstall LE4 4JG Two storey side extension to form bedroom and enlarged bathroom, over playroom, shower and utility rooms P/21/1674/2: 8 Birstall Meadow Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3NA Single storey rear extension

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