Birstall Post (472) November 2022

the Birstall post Y O U R

C O M M U N I T Y

NOVEMBER 2022

N E W S P A P E R

www.birstallpost.co.uk

White Horse skydives

‘WARM SPACES’ in Birstall are being planned, to give residents a warm, comfortable and sociable place to spend time during the cost of living crisis.

As the cost of heating our homes Continued on page 3

Mark’s

PROFESSIONAL

GARDEN MAINTENANCE

SKYDIVES BY staff at the White Horse pub have raised £6421 for Birstall BAGs. Jenny Gallie, senior supervisor at The White Horse, suggested the idea of a charity skydive back in 2019, and the staff all leapt at the idea! 18 of them signed up to do the tandem skydives for local cancer support charity, Birstall BAGs. The Covid-19 pandemic delayed the jumps but, since spring, a huge fundraising effort has taken place. Along with the general sponsorships from customers, family and friends, there have been monthly quizzes, a promise action, a large raffle and a charity dinner.

The quizzes, which will continue on the last Sunday of each month, have been devised and compared by Paul Clements, manager at the White Horse. Paul has also instigated the raffle, for which each skydiver had to source the prizes, and the promise auction was also Paul’s brainchild. For this, each jumper had to offer something they could do for others these included babysitting duties, gardening, car valeting, taxi service and also

No. 472

Warm spaces

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TEL: 07903 614561 or 0116 2692805 Pic: White Horse Manager Paul Clements (front, left) was joined by the skydivers from the White Horse to present a cheque to Emma Shaw (centre) and Rosie Houldsworth from Birstall BAGs

luxury picnics, cocktails making and afternoon teas.

“The whole team have been instrumental in raising funds, and it has been a great bonding experience,” said Paul.

The first skydives took place on September 26, 2022, but the weather wasn’t suitable for the second team to follow them on September 27, so those jumps have happened in smaller groups since, Continued on page 3

THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

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Birstall Running Club’s London marathon BIRSTALL RUNNING Club members took part in the 2022 London Marathon in October, raising more than £5000 for various charities.

“One of my best experiences in life the crowds were incredible,” said Sam Bray, who completed the course in 4hrs 1min.

Steve Hickingbottom, who has run the London Marathon three times before, had been hospitalised with Guillain-Barré syndrome in July. “I didn’t dare

dream that ten weeks later I’d be at the start line,” he said. “I ran 13 emotional Warm spaces continued from page 1 increases, local churches and other organisations have been liaising about how they can support people in times of financial hardship.

Julie Tinley from Birstall Methodist Church is helping to organise a scheme in Birstall and is currently seeking grants to help provide facilities.

She said: “We’d like to open a warm room at the Methodist church, provide a free hot drink and snack, and possibly a separate space for people currently working from home.”

Birstall Parish Council has provided a grant of £600 and welcomed the scheme, offering to make space available in the village halls, on Birstall Road and Hallam Fields Road, and to liaise with local organisers.

At the time of going to press, Julie was still applying for grant funding and hopes to publicise the scheme at the end of October, and open in early November.

THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

Skydive continued from page 1 the final one taking place on October 13. Most of the skydivers absolutely loved the experience, described as “awesome, breath-taking and exhilarating.”

The skydivers were: Jenny Gallie, Charlotte Foy, James Macmillan, Josh Geary, Alfie Hayward, Ben Joinson, Joe Weetman, Sophie Hall, Tom Beams, Dilan Laxman, Joe Robinson, Beccy Smith, Lauren Regan, Thanisha Laxman, Tanja Eiosdottir, and Alice Keeshan.

Two who didn’t manage to take part this time are set to jump soon.

The group hoped to raise £5,000 for the charity but smashed that target with a total of £6,421.60. The Birstall BAGs group were invited to a dinner to celebrate the skydivers' fundraising achievements and also the pub’s 14th anniversary under the current team.

Emma Shaw, Trustee at Birstall BAGs said: “We are absolutely overwhelmed at the amount raised by The White Horse team, they have gone above and beyond in their fund raising, they have been loyal supporters of our cause for many years, and we are hugely grateful to them all. We are committed to supporting all affected by cancer, and this money will go towards helping those in need massively. We can’t thank them all enough.”

miles just past Tower Bridge, and enjoyed and appreciated every step”.

For six runners it was their first-ever marathon: Joe Bevins (4hr 15m), Aidan Black (2hr 59m), Laura Grimbley (4hr 01m), Catherine Jackson (4hr 06m), Dave Snutch (4h 51m) and Zach Spence (3hr

Pics: (far left) Steve Hickingbottom; 37m). (centre) Chris O’Brien at the finish line; The weather conditions were pretty (above) Runners Aidan, Sam, Laura, perfect, and some superb personal perMarie, Gill, Anne, Dee and Dave formances were achieved: Samantha Bray (4hr 01m), Andy Finlow (5hr 10m), Dee Nurse (6hr 43m), Chris O’Brien (2hr 57m) and Marie O’Brien (5hr 46m).

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Animals for Parties, a family-owned zoo on wheels, brought a selection of tame and hand-reared animals for residents to handle and learn about, including Tula the Barn Owl and Pudding, the Skinny Pig. Jenna Peters, activities leader at Cedar Mews, said: “Thank you so much, Animals for Parties, what an amazing experience it was for our residents.”

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THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

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Birstall bakers’ creativity on show THE BIRSTALL Bake Off at the White Horse raised over £1200 for the cancer charity, Macmillan.

September 24 saw an influx of creative cakes, super savouries and beautiful baking arrive at the White Horse for the tenth Great Birstall Bake Off. The grand total raised by the event now stands at over £11,100.

“We were thrilled to receive nearly 40 entries this year, including a great number from young bakers. There were a wide variety of offerings for the categories, and the standard was superb,” said Rebecca Kay, who came up with the idea of the Great Birstall Bake Off. “I wanted to offer the village a community event in which all could join in and it be a bit of fun!”

The Bake Off was just the first stage of a busy ‘cake fuelled’ weekend at the White Horse as on September 25, the pub held its annual Macmillan World’s biggest coffee morning.

“Each year, we are amazed by all the bakers' generosity, from the cost of the ingredients, their time given, and the talents and love put into the donations,” said Charlotte Foy of the White Horse.

The event raised £1250, including Gift Aid donations, thanks to all the donated cakes for the Bake Off and those who attended the coffee morning and gave generously.

The cakes were judged by Yvonne

Pic: Best overall baker Neil Handley and his wife

Pic: Best Junior baker, Elizabeth Parker

Pic: Winners Charlotte Hornsby with her brother

an – Bronuts (brownie in the flavour.

The winners shape of doughnuts) Biscuits – lemon heart received a prize Maya Hernandez – Won Leicesof a rosette ter Riders Tickets with the best Pastry – Leo Armes Bonoverall Birstall ham – Mini baked cheese Baker, Neil Handley, receiv- bites – Won Stonehurst farm ing a sash and Family ticket Bread – Isaac Beaumont– also a Burleigh’s gin glass Focaccia bread with braille olives – Won Leicester Outand distillery door Pursuit activity voucher tour and Free From – Sue Black – prosecco for his delicious sticky toffee pud- Gluten-free Victoria sponge with homemade raspberry jam ding cake.

– Won Pukka pies chippy tea The other winners were: voucher Best Junior baker, ElizaBest decorated- Cat beth Parker, Autumn fairy Victoria Sponge, and colourful Hanlon's passionfruit cactus cake surprise cupcakes There was also a raffle, a International Bake – Traditional Canadian traybake Heidi wine or water game and a guess the weight of the cake, Bastock, kindly donated by Dominic – Won North 42 Gin North of North’s of Rothley.

Panda Cake – Charlotte Hornsby with her brother, who Katie’s Characters were also also entered the competition Continued on page 6 Tray Bake – Anjali Chirondi-

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Pic: ‘Best decorated’, Cat Hanlon’s passion fruit cactus cake

Butterworth and Andrea Scott from the Birstall WI, Anna Beams, Poonam Pau, Reg Sutton, Jackie Bateman, previous winners and James Foy and Zoe White, chefs at the White Horse, following WI guidelines for appearance, texture and

THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

Pic: ‘Free From’ category winner Sue Black

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Pic: Pastry category winner Leo Armes Bonham

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Continued from page 5 present at the event with the beautiful Rapunzel, who sang popular Disney songs.

Pic: Judges Yvonne Butterworth (left) & Andrea Scott from Birstall WI

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The organisers would also like to thank all of those who supplied prizes, namely: North 42 Gin, Silly Prices, Glenn Lewin butcher, Burleigh’s Gin, Trust Inns, Stonehurst Farm, Belvoir Farms, Libra Drinks, St Martins Coffee, Caddy Shakers, Makro, East Street Lanes, Tree Tops golf, Timothy Taylor, Pukka Pies, Walkers Crisps, Whites Hairdressing, Birstall Jewellers, Leicester Outdoor Pursuits, Leicester Riders, WI and the judges.

Pic: ‘International Bake’ category winner Heidi Bastock (left) & ‘Biscuits’ category winner Maya Hernandez

Guides’ new facility GIRLGUIDING BIRSTALL is hosting an open day to officially open its new building, the Jubilee Room, at their headquarters on Johnson Road.

Lastly, The White Horse would like to thank the primary schools of Birstall for facilitating the colouring competition each year, and all the amazingly creative children who provide such fabulous cake designs which adorn the pub and make it look super and ready for the event. This year’s winners were: Bella-Mae Brindley, Chloe Parkins, Arjun Gokani, Alivia Burrows, Veer Chandarana, Noah Robinson and Alex from Riverside and Kira Khudi Mistry from Highcliffe

All current and previous members of Girlguiding Birstall are invited to join us on Saturday November 19 to see the new facilities available, and to belatedly celebrate 90 years of Girlguiding within Birstall.

Anyone wanting to find out more about Girlguiding Birstall and what we do for young people, or for adults is also welcome to join us to see what we do! The Guide HQ on Johnson Road will be open from 10am-4pm with stalls, refreshments and activities available, as well as a chance to see the new building now that it is complete! All are welcome.

From Girlguiding Birstall

THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

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THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

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YOUR SAY...

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

Council work Still the natives are complaining about the Parish Council and either two or no vacancies depending on where you look on their website.

I moved to the area six years ago from the home counties and had served as both a Town and Borough councillor so thought my experience would be useful. As appears to be the normal situation up here, there were vacancies, so at the earliest opportunity applied to be co-opted unit the next election. It didn’t take long to realise that something

was not right.

I understand and accept that Birstall I was rejected as ‘being too political’ Parish Council has no direct say over (I was an independent councillor on highways but I am sure their opinion both councils!), so one of the Birstall counts. councillors took pity on me and arIn other towns and villages, more and ranged to call an election. I was elected more traffic calming measures are being unopposed, so they had to accept me as introduced. A few years ago people defiI was. nitely took second place to cars but now One of the things on election is to the tables are turning, and for very good meet the clerk and chair of the council reasons. to sign the paperwork and was asked if I I really hope the Parish Council will had any questions. I knew at that time give all the support it can to any future there appeared to be problems with the traffic calming proposals.

Sam Dobson new Community Centre to be built on Greengate Lane resident the Hallam fields Estate, so I simply asked about it, only to have the question ‘why would I want to know about that?’

Covid soundtrack put in unison by the clerk and chair.

I think that indicates the whole tone Covid: Hit List of Birstall Parish Council as I believe in Songs that show various stages of local Councillors actually taking an inter- emotions felt. est in local matters and making deci1. Don’t stand too close to me: The sions democratically in real life, not just Police going through the motions.

2. Walk on by: Dianne Warwick In case you actually thought of going 3. I Will survive: Gloria Gaynor for being a councillor be warned, I 4. It’s a heartache, nothing but a spent an average of 25 hours a week on heartache: Bonnie Tyler both Town and Borough Councils down 5. When will I see you again: The south (although I was chairman of one Three Degrees Town Council committee as well as sever6. I just don’t know what to do with al working parties and outside commitmyself: Dusty Springfield tees).

7. Walking back to happiness: Helen Norman Cutting in sunny Wanlip Shapiro 8. I just want you back for good: Take That Sorry state 9. You’ll Never Walk alone: Gerry & The Pacemakers Well this is a bit of a sorry state. Cor10. We’ll meet again, don’t know rect me if I am wrong but the opportuniwhere, don’t know when: Vera Lynn ty to spend £25,000 on road safety in Conclusion: Birstall has now passed.

Music was my first love, it will be my

last, music of the future, music of the past, to live without my music, is impossible to do, in this troubled world we live in, my music pulls me through. John Miles Ed Marshall

Medical centre Does anyone know why the medical centre needs to be made bigger as they rarely see patients face to face? If they cannot see the patients they already have why are they taking on more patients.

Surely it is just greed as they are getting paid for patients that they never see.

Could they be asked to explain this? The GPs have really let their patients down over the last couple of years.

Name and address supplied

Incessant tinkling I don’t believe that I am the only person who finds the incessant tinkling of wind chimes irritating especially in windy weather. Do those who hang them in their gardens not realise that not everyone likes to hear them and they can cause annoyance. Trying to sleep at night the windows have to be closed to shut out the constant noise. A neighbour near to me on the Greengate estate has recently installed one in their garden, unfortunately it is difficult to see which garden. Please consider your neighbours and bear in mind that not everyone likes to hear wind chimes.

Name and address supplied

Continued on page 9

THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

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Continued from page 8

Magnificent creeper I would just like to say how absolutely magnificent the Virginia Creeper has been this year, in the Co-op car park an absolute waterfall of crimson, gold and green. Such a shame it will be cut down, but I know it will be back next year!

Leigh Reid

Road safety I agree wholeheartedly with the correspondents in October’s Birstall Post covering the VAS, and HGVs etc.

With elderly people like myself and others faced with more than one layer of bureaucracy to deal with, one blaming the other, is it surprising we are all confused who we have to contact to attempt to say or get anything done anymore? We cannot all get to Parish Council meetings because of age and transport problems.

I understand we were offered a VAS but cannot afford the cost to maintain it!

It will take a serious accident to happen again before the LCC or BPC get anything done to slow traffic on this particular road - other roads in the village, no problem! We as taxpayers pay more and more each year, but this road cannot get, after years and years of protests, even a '30' speed sign, let alone a flashing sign, erected. An HGV sign yes, but that isn't enforced in any way. There are hundreds more houses due to be built on and from the city boundary on the other side of the 'weak' railway bridge, so the rat run on this road can only get steadily worse each year.

Various residents, including my late husband, campaigned years ago with handheld speed cameras and the police also came twice, but drivers spotted them and slowed down anyway, so that didn't help our cause, although it did probably result in '20' signs above and below Highcliffe school.

In addition now, residents' vehicles are causing another problem, as more and more (both large and small) are parking on the grass verges on the roadside here, sometimes day and night, obscuring the view of people trying to reverse out of driveways, so yet another accident waiting to happen. In peak times it is almost impossible to safely reverse out onto this road. Do we have to wait until someone is killed before anything gets done?

M Thwaites

THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

Local history society Birstall & District Local History Society: 1985 - 2022 After being in existence for 37 years I have to let all know that a decision has been taken to wind up the society in accordance with the constitution.

The total monies held in the account of the society is to be split between the following three charities, namely: East Midlands Air Ambulance, British Heart Foundation and Birstall BAGs. Two founder members of the society have still been involved with the History Society namely, John Kilby and Mike Smith.

These two members have over the years produced books on the History of Birstall and Belgrave and well known inhabitants of our village, of which the society is very grateful.

Noticeboard all details printed free Wanlip Christmas Fair Wanlip Church and Community Hall 3rd December 2-4pm Cakes Chocolate Tombola Raffle Over the years the History Society has been able to arrange many speakers for their monthly meetings together with arranging visits to special places of historic interest.

On behalf of the committee, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all previous members and visitors who have joined us at our monthly meetings.

Please just keep in mind history is being made every day.

Adrienne Topley Chairperson / Secretary

Greengate Lane Further to my letter in last month’s issue of the Birstall Post, I would like to reinforce the comments expressed, and supported by others, regarding measures to control traffic on Greengate Lane.

One morning last week I was talking to a friend when a LOADED car transporter proceeded along Greengate Lane, presumably directed by the satnav, yet again. How the driver negotiated the bridge I didn’t see, but as well as obvious dangers there is also possible damage to the railway bridge as it was not built to support such traffic.

I accept it is the County Council’s responsibility to maintain the roads and the police to enforce traffic restrictions and that it is important residents report any incidents, but is the parish Council saying it is nothing to do with them and so “wash their hands” of the matter? I would expect the Council to support residents’ genuine complaints with other local authorities before a preventable tragedy/situation arises. It would also be worthwhile to contact the Dept. of Transport – or whoever is responsible – to point out that there is a weight restriction on the Lane as it is unsuitable for large/heavy vehicles and satnavs need adjusting accordingly. Just a reminder, I don’t think my question regarding the number of Parish Councillors using Greengate Lane was answered. Do any actually use the Lane every day?

Surely everyone realises that the Parish Council notes published in the Post are not the actual minutes of meetings?

However, the comment that they are “the editor’s journalistic take on the proceedings” infers they are “slanted” and not factually correct. As the editor attended meetings during my time as Clerk, I can only say that never at any time were the reports of meetings anything other than accurate, factual and a fair description of what had taken place, giving no cause for complaint. I cannot believe this practice has changed as the editor has always been professional in his work.

The Council feels “it may be more beneficial to attend meetings…” Perhaps I shall have to think about doing so.

Doreen Wilson

Plant Stall Bottle Tombola Refreshments Wreathes Bric-a-Brac Helping Our Community Pay It Forward - LE4 Birstall will be holding our second

The exhibition is open from 9.30am until 4pm on both days.

Entry is free, refreshments are available and we will be supporting LOROS again this year. Free parking is available behind the hall, accessed via School Lane Charnwood Group LRWT

Christmas Fair

Urban Birds

On Saturday 12th November Birstall Village Hall 10am – 1pm Small Businesses & Local Crafters - £10 Per Table

Wednesday 14th December, 7.30pm at Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall.

Celebrated Urban Birder, David Lindo, talks about the urban world of birds.

Over 20% of the globes's bird species have been recorded within our towns and cities, sometimes without us noticing.

There will be some surprises as to some of the variety of species David will be featuring in his talk.

This will be an opportunity to socialise whilst watching the experienced and well-known bird expert online, but also giving the opportunity to interact with him and ask questions.

Riverside Primary School PTA

Christmas Fair Saturday 26 November 11am – 3pm Children Free Adults £1* (*Includes Free Mince Pie) Entry via School Driveway Stalls –Tombola - Raffle Refreshments & Much More The Birstall & District Art Society

Continued on page 11

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NOVEMBER 2022

More Protection on its Way

Banks Block Cryptocurrency

Authorised push payment (APP) fraud is the term used to describe theft when a victim is tricked into transferring money from their bank account to criminal scammers. The fraudsters pretend to be the victim's bank, the Police or some other official body that cynically claims to be protecting them from losing their money to a scam.

Which? Money reports that in 2021, losses to APP fraud reached £583m, up by 39% on the previous year. It overtook unauthorised payment card fraud losses (£525m) for the first time. Victims of card fraud are legally protected and are refunded in 98% of cases.

Victims of APP fraud, however, have to rely on a voluntary industry code and in 2021, only 46% of losses were refunded.

New data obtained by Which? suggest that little has changed since then and that banks are still wrongly denying refunds to victims in three‐quarters of cases reviewed by the Financial Ombudsman Service In September, the Payments System Regulator (PSR) laid out proposals requiring banks and building societies to reimburse victims of APP fraud in all but exceptional cases. The new proposals come after a long campaign by Which? on behalf of victims.

Mandatory reimbursement for APP fraud victims cannot come soon enough but it is, of course, best not to be a victim in the first place.

NEVER transfer money on the advice of a stranger, no matter how plausible they sound. If the authorities already know or suspect that your account is at risk, they are in a position to block any suspicious transactions without you having to do anything in a hurry.

In a welcome move to protect customers from fraud, banks are beginning to block payments to cryptocurrency trading platforms, such as Binance and Kraken, after a dramatic rise in investment scam losses. The restrictions follow a growing number of fraudsters posing as investment advisers who trick victims into sending money to cryptocurrency e‐wallets where the money can disappear without a trace.

In June 2021, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) issued a formal warning about Binance Markets Ltd, banning it from operating in the UK. Taking their lead from the regulator, many UK banks have since announced that they will stop customers from making payments to cryptocurrency trading platforms.

Investment in cryptocurrency is always high risk because the market is largely unregulated. Your money is not protected by the Financial Ombudsman Service or Financial Services Compensation Scheme if something goes wrong. Once it is gone, it is well and truly gone!

Cryptocurrency has also attracted scammers who put out malicious adverts for get‐rich‐quick schemes on search engines and social media, sometimes with bogus celebrity endorsements. These direct you to provide your contact details so that a fraudster can follow up with a telephone call posing as a cryptocurrency trader. In some cases, they pose as 'support staff' and convince victims to download remote access software so that they can control their devices and empty their cryptocurrency e‐wallets.

In the present climate there are few, if any, get‐rich‐quick schemes and, if there were, those benefiting from them would keep them very quiet. The only easy way to get rich in this manner is to steal others’ hard‐earned money.

New Stamps for Old

Keep Safe and Save Power

Royal Mail is adding barcodes to some of its stamps. After 31st January 2023, regular stamps without a barcode will no longer be valid.

So, now is the time to find any old postage stamps you may have and check whether you need to swap them or use them up in the next few months.

The only stamps that have changed are those that are very familiar. They feature the profile of Her Late Majesty the Queen on a single‐coloured background. Special stamps with other pictures and Christmas stamps without a barcode will remain valid and can continue to be used as normal after the deadline.

You can find more information, including how to swap old stamps for the new versions, at: www.royalmail.com/sending/barcoded‐stamps

The clocks have just gone back and the nights are drawing in, so this is the time of year when we remind you to review your home security.

One consistent piece of advice is to ensure that your home looks occupied even if you are not there, by putting a light on a timer switch. Thieves will be much less likely to break into a house where they might be confronted by the householder. One that is in complete darkness is a much more attractive proposition.

This year we are being urged to reduce our power consumption for very good reasons and this includes turning off any unnecessary devices.

It is for each person to make their own assessment but, if you decide to keep a lamp on to deter thieves, you can reduce its power use by up to 90% by replacing the bulb with a modern LED version.

Our Advice Shop is Open Saturday 19th November, 10 am to 12 noon Robert Dickinson Building, Sibson Road (Next to the Public Car Park opposite the Garden Centre)

See our range of free and at cost security items and take the opportunity to renew your Watch membership

REMEMBER IF YOU MAKE A PHONE CALL YOU ARE IN CONTROL BUT IF SOMEONE PHONES YOU THEY ARE IN CONTROL

The Watch would like to thank Birstall Parish Council for its continued support © Birstall and Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch – watch@villagewatch.co.uk – 0756 2422 756

THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

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

Continued from page 9

Remembrance Sunday Service

Further details will be advertised online nearer the date www.lrwt.org.uk

Birstall United fixtures November: 05/11/22 Southwell City FC League 08/11/22 Thunby Rangers Senior Cup 12/11/22 Grantham Town FC League 22/11/22 AFC Wulfrunians FA VASE 1st Round Proper 26/11/22 Hucknall Town FC League December: 10/12/22 Harrowby United League

Sing Christmas St James' Church, Birstall 3pm Friday December 30, for about an hour.

Come and sing carols and be entertained to celebrate Christmas with friends and family.

Free Entry, bucket collection for charity.

Further details: 0116 2675518 Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council

Friday Night Films “Downton Abbey - A New Era” November 11 (124 mins) At last, we can show the new “Downton Abbey”, set in the 1930’s when Lady Mary opens the door to a film crew. Meanwhile, the Dowager, played by the indomitable Maggie Smith, reveals that she has mysteriously inherit-

ed a villa in the South of France, where the Crawley family are delighted to holiday.

“Death on the Nile- 2022 Version” Dec 9 (127 mins) Holidaying aboard a glamorous Egyptian river steamer, Hercule Poirot, played by Sir Kenneth Branagh, is caught up in a terrifying search for a murderer. With stars Jennifer Saunders, Dawn French and Letitia Wright, there are many unexpected additional twists to the original Agatha Christie mystery.

If you have already purchased a ticket for this film, you will, of course, be able to use it. We do still have additional tickets which you can buy.

“Fisherman’s Friends: One and All” Jan 13 (111 mins) Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall, starting at 7.30pm. Film tickets will cost the usual £5, which includes a lucky prize draw and refreshments during the interval.

You can pay for tickets at the door, if there are any left or pay in advance from: Richard 0116 2363 066 or Diana 0116 2362 619

13th November – 11am The Friends of Belgrave Cemetery will be holding their usual Remembrance Sunday Service at Belgrave Cemetery on Sunday 13th November at 11am.

But this year there will be a difference. In previous years, the Reverend Pam Haynes has conducted our service. Now Pam has moved away from the area, and we wish her well. Instead, members of the Friends committee will be reading the Rolls of Honour of names of those who fell during the First and Second World Wars.

We will be placing a wreath on the cemetery War Memorial and there will be an opportunity for visitors to light a memorial candle.

For more information contact Dorothy Marshall (0116 267 2018) Bradgate Park

Wellbeing Walks Every Monday (Bank Holidays Included). The walks are open to all and we offer two options; easy access and moderate to ensure as many people as possible can enjoy the park. Come along and enjoy the sights and sounds of Bradgate whilst having a good chat and a great walk.

Meet for a 10am start in the Newtown Linford car park, Bradgate Park, Newtown Linford, LE6 0HE. Free to attend. Car parking charges apply.

There is no prior booking necessary for our walks, but we will ask new walkers to give us a few details for safety purposes.

If you have any further queries then please email: volunteers@bradgatepark.org

Wednesday 23rd November 2022 Birstall Village Hall 7.15pm ‘Glad Tidings’

By Tony Brown National demonstrator £10.00 including refreshments Tickets available from: Sylvia 0116 267 4206 Carol 0116 267 1437 Wreake Valley Rotary Club's annual

Christmas Winter Warmer Fun Run

is due to be held on Sunday 4th December in Watermead Park.

Further details can be found on our website www.wreakevalkeyrotary.org.uk or go directly to www.evententry.co.uk where full details of the event, what to expect and how to enter etc. can be found.

Last year's event attracted around 200 entries and this year's entries are expected to increase as many people said they hoped to return next year and perhaps spread the word around.

Start time is 10am and CLOSING DATE FOR ENTRIES is Nov 27, so come along for some enjoyable pre Christmas family fun and shed a few pounds before inevitably putting them back on again at Christmas. We look forward to seeing you again

Navrang Arts presents 50 Years of Ugandan Asians in Loughborough

THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

Rebuilding Lives Discover the stories of real people who fled Uganda half a century ago to start new lives in and around Loughborough.

Explore the objects and photographs that have come to symbolise their lives before and after expulsion, and reflect on the impact that these and other communities have had on the modern town.

15th October 2022 - 4th February 2023 Free exhibition at Charnwood Museum Granby Street Loughborough LE11 3DU Tel: 01509 233754

Wanlip Village Hall is available to hire at a rate of £12 per hour. It is available for bookings throughout the day and during evenings, throughout the week, and at the weekends. The ideal location for meetings, classes and parties! Facilities include a fully functioning kitchen, tables, chairs and fully accessible toilets.

Contact Liz Davison on 01162671252 for further information and bookings Charnwood Orchestra

Concert Birstall Flower Club Christmas Open Meeting

Emmanuel Church Forest Road Loughborough LE11 3NW Continued on page 12

11

Continued from page 11 Conductor Nic Fallowfield Violin Thomas Bowes Vaughan Williams Overture: 'The Wasps' Bax Symphonic poem: 'Tintagel' Holst Ballet music from 'The Perfect Fool' Elgar Violin Concerto Tickets: The Orchestra website tickets@charnwoodorchestra.org. uk At the door, cash payments only £14.00 (£12.00 concessions) £5.00 -18s and under or NUS members

Birstall Methodist Church

Christmas Festival 2022

My Christmas Decorated trees in the Church Free Admission Donations welcome to Christians against Poverty Friday 25th November 10am 6pm Saturday 26th November 10am 2pm Santa’s Grotto Decorations & crafts - Toys & Lucky Dip Tombola - Raffle - Christmas gifts Vintage items, books & jigsaws Homemade cakes & preserves Craft Fayre Pancakes & Hot Dogs Friday from 3pm Refreshments Friday & Saturday from 10am Please bring cash, cards cannot be accepted The Joe Humphries Memorial Trust

Christmas Fair Mountsorrel Memorial Centre Sun Nov 20 10.30am – 4.30pm By popular demand The Joe Humphries Memorial Trust ( JHMT) Christmas Craft Fair will return following a break due to the pandemic.

Come and join us for this lovely event where you can find locally sourced artisan products whilst helping JHMT to save young lives.

Start your Christmas shopping early with some beautiful gifts, food and wine and unique beautifully crafted products all under one roof without pushing round shopping centres! You’re sure to find that special individual gift from the wonderful choice on offer. www.jhmt.org.uk

Rothley & Birstall Birdwatchers Tues Nov 8 Gary Hodson talks on the Birds of the Ide Valley Nature Reserve in Notts.

All meetings are free to members.

Guests £3 Start 7.30.p.m. in The Rothley Centre, 12 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR (free car parking) If you are interested in joining us as a guest you will be very welcome. For information please contact Jack Wootten on bingbongwoo@gmail.com or mobile 0791 312 9497

Annual Remembrance parade & service 9am: everyone involved in the parade will form up on School Lane playing fields car park and march down Birstall Road to the roundabout, up Front Street and into the Church for the service. After the service the Parade will march down to form up again facing the War Memorial.

The service will be held at 10am Sunday, 13 November 2022 at St James the Great Church on Front Street, followed by speeches and a wreath laying ceremony at the War Memorial.

There will be road closures in place for a short time to allow for a safe parade to proceed through some streets in the village to the War Memorial The December issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Dec 3.

The copy deadline is Nov 18.

NHW news

& crime report Dangerous Presents Christmas is not far away and is traditionally the time of year when spending goes up and budgets get strained. This year the strain will be compounded by the frightening rise in the price of almost everything we buy. The desire to give presents, especially to children, and to include all those extra luxuries to the dinner table will make cheap offers feel very tempting (even if they might appear to be a bit dodgy).

However, whether they are from a ‘man in a pub’ or from online marketplaces, there are serious dangers that have nothing to do with the legality or morality of the deals. Traditional gift items such as toys, toiletries and confectionery are being ripped off by unscrupulous factories in countries where controls are weak. They are not subject to the quality and safety checks put there to protect us and they can actually be harmful to those using them.

If you buy directly from a reputable company, you can be confident that their products comply with the regulations. If you buy through an e-commerce platform, you cannot be certain who the sellers or manufacturers are or where they are based; it could be anywhere in the world. More importantly, you cannot be sure that the items are safe.

The consumer watchdog Which? investigated products sold by online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, as well as smaller less well-known ones. It found a

lot of items listed that cannot be sold legally in this country. One was a toy that had been recalled because of a risk to children of choking or suffocating.

Another was a car seat made from a fabric that is banned from use in the UK. It also found that many of the electrical and electronic items were poorly made inferior imitations of genuine products and that they posed a serious risk of fire or electrocution.

Unscrupulous sellers also employ underhand methods to promote their dodgy products by faking large numbers of positive five-star reviews and even claiming falsely that they are endorsed by well-known celebrities.

There is also danger in buying in person from shady dealers. Genuine traders will have a shop, market stall or registered address where they can be traced by customers and held accountable by the authorities. Those touting their goods around door-to-door or in places like clubs and pubs will often be very hard to trace. There is no guarantee that their wares are any better or safer than those offered online.

Farmers are reporting increasing theft of live animals and poultry that are then slaughtered in unsanitary conditions so that the meat can be sold cheaply by the thieves. The legal food chain is highly regulated to prevent us from becoming ill from the food we eat. Few things will spoil Christmas more than a dose of food poisoning. There have been prosecutions arising from meat condemned by Health Inspectors as unfit for human consumption, being sold off cheaply in this shadowy market.

Please stay safe and enjoy the festivities, although it may be that if we want to maintain the quality, we may have to cut back a bit on the quantity. Do your research and, please, always consider any risk to your loved ones and friends to whom you want to be generous.

From Ed Chambers, Watch Chairman, Birstall & Wanlip NHW

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THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

12

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Diamond wedding anniversary A BIRSTALL couple have celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary.

Carole & Tony Burton were married at St James church in Birstall on October 20, 1962 the last couple to be married in the original church before the extension was added.

They have lived on Queensgate Drive, Birstall, since they were married and have two daughters, Julie and Jane, four granddaughters and one great-grandson.

They celebrated the occasion with a weekend away in Derbyshire with all the family.

THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

Opportunity ARE YOU working part-time, nearing retirement or already retired? Does the thought of time without a work routine seem daunting? Is there time in your life to fill?

Joining a local U3A is a fantastic opportunity to meet other people, and participate in a wide range of activities.

‘Syston & District U3A’ is open to everyone, including those living outside the Syston area. There are U3A Organisations all over England and some overseas countries as well, which you can pop into while on holiday or spending time with family and friends elsewhere.

Our website www.systonu3a.org.uk offers information on almost 40 different group activities from which to choose and includes Bird watching, Painting, Singing, Walking Football, Snooker, Photography and many more. Unable to find anything which interests you there? Answer - join ‘Syston & District U3A’ for £15 annually (29 pence per week) and form a new group to share interests, knowledge and skills or simply ‘have a go’!

Included in the membership subscription is the option to attend a monthly meeting with fascinating speakers, receive U3A quarterly magazine delivered to your door and enjoy a perfect opportunity to try something new, meet a diverse range of people and have FUN. Most activities cost approximately £2 to attend, which covers room hire and are usually two hours in duration. Outdoor activities offer car-sharing possibilities too. In addition, there are also unique workshops, theatre visits and days out at additional cost.

‘Syston & District U3A’ covers many local villages (including yours), so look on our new, comprehensive, easy-to-use website www.systonu3a.org.uk for more information. Take a chance, contact the Group Leader of your choice and arrange to join a ‘taster’ session OR attend our monthly meeting at ‘Syston Community Centre’ on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am to 12 pm, and talk to others to find out more. Everyone is equal, and a warm welcome is assured.

The rest, like life, is up to YOU! From Syston & District U3A

Students celebrate their success THE KUMON Leicester, Birstall Study Centre recently celebrated their students’ successes at their annual Advanced Student Honour Roll (ASHR) ceremony on 8 October 2022 at Birstall Village Hall.

Being their first in-person ceremony since before the Covid pandemic and one that marked the five-year anniversary of the centre under instructor, Dipa Vithlani, the event provided the opportunity to recognise the centre’s students for their recent achievements and continued development on the Kumon Maths and English Programmes.

More than 35 students were presented with trophies, with more receiving medals and certificates recognising that they are studying advanced work in comparison to their peers in the UK, as well as across the globe.

Each was commemorated for achieving a level of study one, two or three years above their equivalent school grade level.

The ASHR ceremony

also provides encouragement and motivation for those students who are yet to reach this point in their individual Kumon journeys.

With more than 120 attendees, the ceremony was an opportunity to also thank the families that supported the children’s study throughout the year.

Established for almost 60 years, the aim of the Kumon Method of Learning is to develop students into confident, independent learners and help them achieve their full potential as individuals.

“The individualised programmes enable students to progress to an advanced level, at their own pace, ensuring they maxim-

ise their ability,” said instructor Dipa Vithlani.

Until November 15, 2022, you can book your child’s Kumon Free Trial where they’ll be assessed, experience one week of Kumon study and can attend up to two in-centre or online classes with the instructor.

The Kumon Leicester, Birstall Study Centre is located at Birstall Scout Hut, Birstall Road, Birstall, LE4 4DH with classes running on Monday, Thursday and Saturday. For more information, contact Instructor, Dipa Vithlani on 0116 2609745 or visit www.kumon.co.uk/leicester-birstall Pic: Students at their presentation evening

Sail away on a pirate adventure Parish Council notes HATS' NEXT panto is “Treasured Island”, and the cast and crew are inviting you to sail away with them on a pirate adventure later this month at Birstall Social Club.

Sue Withers from HATS said: “Our group thrives on a mixture of laughter and mistakes, however, when it comes to our ultimate performance on stage we do our very best to pull off an amazing show for you all.”

She added: “The atmosphere in rehearsals is becoming more animated and lively, all of the characters are striving to develop their characters and bring them alive to you. They will be listening for you joining in, clapping, shouting, laughing, and you might find yourself wishing you were a pirate too. There is something quite magical about the notion of

being a pirate, supposedly devilish, but very often with a softer side too, wanting to be bad, but not all of them managing it. Are they afraid of Long John Silver and his nasty ways? Come and find out.

Are YOU afraid of Long John Silver, or is his bark worse than his bite?

“If you have read our previous articles, you might remember that I mentioned “surprise” characters. I wonder who they are and if you can guess before you come and discover who they are.

They are not traditionally part of Treas-

ured Island, but I’m sure you will love them.

“Our costumes are once again brilliant, fitting in with the theme, and made by Di Butler, our wardrobe expert. She is so talented.

“Who is the baddie and who is the goodie, are there any of either? Is there A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish any romance or sadness? All will be Council was held on September revealed within our story.

26.

“In any other scenario, sunshine, a PCSO Ellie Holland reported she was tropical island away from others, sand leaving the Birstall beat to begin training and a beautiful sea would cost you a as a police officer and that Birstall fortune, and you couldn’t guarantee the would be allocated a new PCSO to reweather was going to be good either. place her. Birstall‘s new police officer is Treasured Island has all of this, close your eyes and feel the sand on your feet, Rob Crane.

PCSO Holland reported there had and hear the waves rippling. You can been a spate of thefts from Tesco and experience all of this as you watch our the Co-op. She said that people seen story unfold.

“We are looking forward to seeing you riding E-scooters are first given a warning, and if seen a second time, the scootall, regular audience members and new, er is confiscated. we are sure that new people will come It was agreed to renew membership back again and again. of the Society of Local Council Clerks at Anyone who wishes to a cost of £351. attend dressed as a pirate It was agreed to extend the consultawill have the chance to win tion period for the multi-use games area a selection box, one for on the School Lane playing field by publieach of the four performcising the details in the November Birances, with an ultimate winner who will be award- stall Post and on the council’s website and social media. ed a family ticket (two The council agreed to accept and adults and two children) adopt its policies and procedures, which for next year’s panto. This are reviewed annually. It was reported will not be a formal fancy that there will be some changes to meet dress contest; the director the requirements of the NALC Quality will cast a discreet eye Gold council award. One of these will over the audience during include the publication of draft minutes the shows. Yes, all ages on the council website. will be considered, chilIt was reported that due to the depardren, parents, grandparture of some staff, Young Leicestershire ents, great grandparents. was advertising two vacancies for the Get your costumes sorted provision of youth services at the parish out and join in the fun. council funded Birstall Youth Café on Who doesn’t love a selecthe School Lane playing field. tion box?”

Councillors received an update on the Clips and pictures of project to extend Birstall cemetery into rehearsals can be found on HATS' Facethe allotment site. Following a site meetbook page. ing it was determined that a survey Dates for your diary: would be required, due to the likelihood Thursday November 17th and Friday of asbestos being present. Consultants, November 18th 2022 at 7.15pm Saturday November 19th 2022 at 2pm the CDS Group, will produce a design and costings for the project for considerand 7pm ation by the council before a pre-planDoors open 30 minutes before each ning application is prepared. This will performance not be submitted for several years.

Venue: Birstall Social Club, 16-18 Chair Ann Marshall reported that the Wanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4JS project would cost a lot of money and Tickets: £7, £6 concession, £22 that the council needed to set aside an family ticket. (two adults and two chilamount each year until there was dren) Discount for group bookings of 10 or enough to pay for it. This will be considered by the council when it sets its budgmore people. Tickets are available now. et in December 22/Jan 23.

Box office: 0116 2209594 and It was reported that the parish clerk 07948796675 had met with a fellow clerk from a counFacebook: cil that had recently obtained the NALC www.facebook.com/hatsamdram/ The arrangements for our PANTO may Quality Gold award, which Birstall Parish Council is working towards achieving. be subject to change or cancellation The information will be discussed at the should the Government Guidelines differ council’s working party, which was set from the current status relating to COVup to help progress the application.

ID rules. HATS will endeavour to inform Parish councillors have been requestyou of any necessary changes as soon as ed to provide a personal profile for possible. publication on the council’s website, as it is one of the requirements of the qualiThe December issue of ty gold award scheme. One profile subTHE BIRSTALL POST mitted was discussed by the council. It will be published on Dec 3.

The copy deadline is Nov 18.

Continued on page 15

THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

14

Busy garden party A FUNDRAISING garden party has raised £1210 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Held at 1 Curzon Avenue on October 2, visitors enjoyed a delicious spread of food and drink, some donated by local businesses, and a social afternoon with friends and neighbours while supporting the charity that helps people and their families battling cancer.

15

GAS-SERVWELL (Charnwood Ltd)

Reena Madlani said: “A big thank you to all the Curzon Avenue committee for volunteering all your time to make this event happen, we had an amazing turnout! A big thanks also to all the businesses that donated food, and gifts for the raffle.”

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Pics: (above) Reena Madlani (left) and Nicky Pattni (14) selling raffle tickets; visitors enjoying the garden party

Boxing gym secures new sponsor

THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

GUNNS’ GYM on Birstall Road has a new sponsor.

Continued from page 14 provided free of charge for a Helping Our Community LE4 group fundraising was agreed that the councillor be asked event. to resubmit a new profile, as the profile The council has received a letter of submitted breached the council’s press praise regarding the excellent condition and media policy.

It was reported that Severn Trent had of the bowling green.

A full council meeting was held on taken some actions regarding flooding on the School Lane playing field but that October 10.

Local artist Giles Meakin gave a presthe problems persisted. The clerk inentation on the project to create a mural formed councillors that she was sending commemorating the Covid-19 pandemic, videos and photos of the problems to on the wall of The Crossways car park.

Severn Trent.

The project is at the rough concept stage.

Councillors considered a proposal to Mr Meakin outlined three possible provide warm refugees for people this designs: a classic scene of battle depictwinter, due to the cost of living crisis. It ing space-invader style virus particles was agreed this was an excellent idea, approaching human figures; a horizontal and that the Age UK Day Centre in the timeline with pictures above and below Village Hall was the most suitable location, and could be offered free of charge. in balloons on a rainbow background, and a thought cloud, with images in The local churches are known to be bubbles, each image telling a story planning warm refuges, and it was unique to Birstall. agreed to liaise with them to provide a Costings will depend on the size of coordinated approach.

Councillors considered an application the mural and the materials used – the artist said that painting directly onto the for grant aid from Birstall Methodist Coffee Shop for £600 to provide a warm brick wall, rather than on panels, would be the longest lasting. refuge for the community.

It was agreed that the next stage of It was agreed, in principle, to award the project was to contact local primary £600, subject to consultation with the schools to see if they wish to get chilorganisers of the coffee shop regarding dren involved in the design of the artevidencing the expenditure. work.

It was agreed that the Village Hall be Birstall’s new beat officer PC Rob

Boiler & Gas Fires Serviced

Birstall based Top Floor Scaffolding is run by Jay Clifford-Gill. He said: “Carl is a fantastic bloke and what he does for the kids is amazing, he’s getting kids off the streets, and they really enjoy it at the gym.”

Jay’s wife Paula Clifford-Gill said: “I’ve known Carl for years and I really admire him, he’s a lovely genuine gentleman who always has time for others.

“All that he brings to Birstall, keeping

Crane introduced himself to councillors.

He said that reported crime was down from 49 to 40 this month, and there had been no burglaries.

Each year, the Parish Council delivers festive hampers to elderly people nominated by the community. There are currently 19 people on the list. From a shortlist, councillors chose a hamper for this year’s recipients costing £19.99.

Councillors considered options provided by their consultants for the cemetery extension. These would involve creating a single point of vehicle access, using the existing entrance, or two points of access/egress, using the existing access for Greengate Lane allotments and the existing cemetery access.

Councillors agreed they wished the consultants to provide more details and costs for both options.

A member of the public has complained about Parish Council staff using vehicles on Hallam Walk. The complaint was upheld, and the complainant notified that the staff have been instructed not to use vehicles on Hallam Walk.

the children off the streets, teaching them how to respect others whilst keeping healthy for so little in return. We’ve held fundraising events for the gym in the past, and look forward to holding more in the future. Carl Gunns’ Gym deserves the support of our community.”

Pic: Carl Gunns (left) with new sponsor Jay Clifford-Gill

Tree needs new home A CHRISTMAS tree growing in a Birstall garden is being offered free to a good home.

“We would like it to go to a local good cause, a charity or a business that could use it this Christmas,” says Leah Russell, who planted the 10-foot tree in her back garden six years ago when it was only 1-foot tall.

“It’s a shame to have it in our garden when it could be bringing Christmas cheer to people,” said Leah, who lives on Birstall Meadow Road with husband Scott and daughters Summer (11) and Belle (9).

The tree can be cut, or uprooted and re-planted, and delivered free.

Contact (07446) 918614.

Pic: Summer Russell (left) & her sister Belle beside the tree

Special playgroup’s party Feedback after the party included: THE BIRSTALL Playgroup for Chil“Yesterday was lovely. The playgroup dren with Additional Needs celeso much to so many.” brated its 50th anniversary with means “It was a great party and so lovely to a party on October 8 at Birstall see some old faces. Thank you so much Methodist Church Centre. to the team for keeping the group going.

“It was fantastic to meet up with so many families who have used the service, as well as volunteers and supporters from the group’s long history,” said Maria Middleton, Management Committee Chair.

“The event was a great success, and everyone was delighted to see Sheila Wilson, who founded the group along with Mary Downs, who was unfortunately unable to be with us on the day.”

It’s invaluable to parents like us, the playgroup opened up a whole new world for us and definitely helped us along on this journey”.

Maria said: “We are very grateful to Birstall Methodist Church for allowing us to host the party in the Methodist Church Centre.”

Pic: Co-founder of the playgroup Sheila Wilson (right) with her daughters Miriam (centre) & Deborah, who was playgroup leader for many years

New bus shelter

Christmas lights

A NEW bus shelter on Wanlip Lane has been suggested by some residents, asked to identify highway improvement works.

LEICESTER’S Christmas Lights Switch On celebration will take place on Thursday November 17, but before then the city council’s lighting team have a mammoth task ahead of them.

Now Birstall’s County Councillor, Dan Grimley, is asking people to contact him with their views on the proposal, before requesting the £10,500 shelter be installed by the County Council.

The cost of the shelter would come from the Members’ Highway Fund – all of the county's 55 councillors have been allocated £25,000 for highway improvements in the area.

The location of the proposed bus shelter is the Lawn Avenue bus stop on Wanlip Lane, between the junction with Lawn Avenue and the entrance to Birstall Social Club.

The County Council say an all-glass or Perspex shelter would be most suitable and that the grass verge around the bus stop be removed and asphalted to allow bus users to approach the shelter more easily.

Contact Councillor Dan Grimley with your views: Daniel.grimley@leics.gov.uk or 0116 2600899.

The December issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Dec 3.

The copy deadline is Nov 18.

From October 18, the team began putting up the decorations that cross the city’s main shopping streets and installing the 16,000 energyefficient lamps that will light up Leicester throughout the festive period.

The centrepiece of the festive decorations – a mighty 46ft Christmas tree from Kielder Forest in Northumberland – is due to arrive during the first week of November, when it will take pride of place next to the Clock Tower.

A new Christmas grotto will be built in Town Hall Square, ready for Santa’s annual visit to the city. Santa in The Square will be free to visit and opens from Saturday December 3, until Friday

December 23.

The traditional nativity scene will also return to Town Hall Square in time for the big switch-on.

This year, the city council has spent around £15,000 replacing worn-out decorations and giving a new look to the existing garlands that span Granby Street.

In Green Dragon Square at Leicester Market, illuminated garlands will be strung between the square’s lamp columns, and the trees will be lit with pea lights.

The massive 35m-high Wheel of Light will return to illuminate Jubilee Square – as well as offering people the chance to see Leicester’s Christmas lights from a new perspective – from Friday November 11. The popular ice rink attraction is also due to make its return to Jubilee Square from Thursday December 1.

This year’s Christmas Switch On will be held on Thursday 17 November from 5pm until 8pm. There will be activities taking place at key locations around the city centre.

THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

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Helping our community THE LONG awaited grass collector has finally arrived. We hope the Birstall Rugby club save many man hours for them and the other groups that use the playing field.

Myself and Kelly attended a civic lunch by invite from the Parish Council.

It was great to meet so many people with a passion to help and make Birstall a better place. In one afternoon we met contacts both old and new.

The scouts are working with us to provide Christmas hampers. Julie Tinley from the Methodist church has kindly offered to pack them. These will be in addition to our “warm hug” packs.

We met Julie the swan lady and have exchanged details. Julie self funds the care of our local swans and we would like to support her.

We have been invited to spend an evening at Carl Gunns’ gym. We would like to support individuals attending the gym with basic equipment they may be struggling to afford.

We will be launching the #payitforward Christmas dinners very soon. These dinners have been an amazing success.

Helping our Community LE4 Birstall

It’s great to pay for someone’s meal that would otherwise go without. It’s also great to receive a meal paid for by someone in your community. We appreciate that times are difficult for many people but if you can pay for a meal please do.

If you want to nominate someone please get in touch.

We are holding our Christmas fete at the Village Hall on November 12, 10am -1pm. Please come along and have a browse around the craft stalls, play a game or just pop in for tea and cake. If you are able to help by baking a cake, items for the tombola or teddy’s needing homes, please get in touch.

If you feel the group can help you in anyway, please contact 07894995164.

Bowling club news THE OUTDOOR bowls season finished last month at Birstall Bowling Club and many members are now turning their attention to the indoor game.

THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

The club had another successful season with members reaching a national final, a national semi-final and two national quarter-finals, winning three county titles and runners up in three more, as well as a parks championship winner.

There were also numerous county and parks quarter and semi-final appearances.

The club won two league competitions and were runners up in another.

Thanks to the hard work of the Parish Council Estates Team the green has played well again this year and as a result, Birstall was chosen to host the latter stages of several national and county competitions when a neutral green was required.

This season’s club competitions were completed in September and the results are below.

Ladies Competitions: Championship: Pa Walker, Runner Up: Jenni Golding Handicap: Kat Bowman, Runner Up: Loraine Washington Maiden: Loraine Washington, Runner Up: Liz Marshall Three Wood: Kat Bowman, Runner Up: Liz Marshall Two Wood: Kat Bowman, Runner Up: Janet Wildbore Pairs: Kathy Pateman & Jan Everitt, Runners Up: Joan Preston & Kat Bowman Edith Smith Pairs: Cynthia Chapman & Dawn Logan, Runners Up: Kathy Pateman & Joan Preston

Men’s Competitions: Championship: Andy Wye, Runner Up: Dave Smith

Handicap: Rick Everitt, Runner Up: Dave Burton Maiden: Stuart Washington, Runner Up: Roger Bartlett Three Wood: John Corby, Runner Up: Richard Smith Two Wood: Andy Wye, Runner Up: Richard Smith Pairs: Alan Hastings & Tom Cowles, Runners Up: Jim Marshall & John Hurst

Mixed Competitions: Open: John Hurst, Runner Up: Jenni Golding Saunders Cup: Pa Walker & Shane Hayes, Runners Up: Jan Everitt & Andy Wye Adnett Pairs: Jo Norton & Dave Smith, Runners Up: Joanie Clarke & John Andreae Aussie Pairs: Roger Savill & Stuart Washington, Runners Up: Diane Rudkin & Richard Smith Club Night Cup: Dave Holmes & Stuart Washington For more information about the club, please visit the website www.birstallbowlingclub.co.uk or search for our page on Facebook.

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Group makes donation THE BIRSTALL Methodist Monday Group has raised £2000 for a Birstall playgroup.

Members presented a cheque to Leona Hilton from Birstall Playgroup for Children with Additional Needs at the Monday Group’s AGM in September.

Leona was overwhelmed to receive the cheque for £2,000 raised by various stalls, coffee mornings and raffles.

“Part of this amount was donated by the family of one of the group's members, who has passed away, and is greatly missed,” said Monday Group spokeswoman Stephanie Houlden.

She added: “Leona thanked our group for all our efforts. She said that she wasn’t expecting such an amazing amount, and it would mean that she would be able to organise a Makaton training course for parents, their carers, and the volunteers. It is easier to learn than sign language, and nonverbal children will learn the tools to help them communicate for the first time.

“Our Project for 2022/23 will be the local branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association, which do so much to support those in Leicestershire and Rutland who have this disease, and their families. One of their volunteers will be speaking about the work that they do at our meeting on Monday November 21.”

The Monday group meets in the Coffee Shop at the Birstall Methodist Church at 7.30pm.

“Everyone is welcome to join us as either a member or a visitor,” says Stephanie.

“We have an interesting autumn and winter programme planned, including a speaker from Real Refills, a talk about Moorcroft Pottery, and an update about the Hotpec orphanage from Joy and David of the Bark Foundation. We will also be decorating our tree for the Christmas festival!

“Why not come along to our group and see if you’d like to join us. You will be made very welcome, and tea, coffee and biscuits are provided.”

Junction changes PLANS to transform Leicester’s St Margaret’s junction to help encourage more walking and cycling, and improve bus journey times, have been revealed.

Leicester City Council has submitted a bid for over £12million from the second round of the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, which is designed for long-term, major capital projects and aims to help create jobs, encourage new investment and enable business growth.

The proposed highway development project would transform the sprawling junction linking St Margaret’s Way, Burleys Way, Vaughan Way and Church Gate. It will also see the removal of the city’s last remaining pedestrian underpasses on the inner ring road, which surveys indicate many people choose not to use due to safety concerns

and the fear of crime.

If successful, the bid will help fund the closing and filling-in of the underpasses along with major remodelling of the junction to help improve bus journey times, provide a more attractive route for walkers and cyclists and create more green space, with new tree planting.

The proposed works include the introduction of new bus lanes on sections of St Margaret’s Way and Sanvey Gate. This would help improve journey times and service reliability by creating a direct link between the new St Margaret’s Bus Station and the A6, A50 and Anstey Lane bus corridors.

If given the go-ahead, the city council will invest £3 million of capital funding towards the project, and work would get underway in late 2023. The underpass is likely to be closed to the public from November 2022.

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Birstall Residents Survey – Installation of a Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) on School Lane playing fields.

Example only

The views of the residents of Birstall are extremely important to Birstall Parish Council. The Parish Council are seeking the views and opinions of the residents of Birstall to establish if there is a need or a desire for a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) to be installed on School Lane playing fields. The suggested location is the dipped area central to the playing fields, marked with a yellow box in the picture above.

The costs are estimated at around £85,000 - £100,000 and grant funding will be sought and applied for to contribute towards the costs. The Council can also forward plan by including the costs for inclusion in the precept planning for future years by way of a savings scheme.

The details you are being asked to provide below will be kept strictly confidential. Any forms that do not have this information included will not be considered.

PRINT NAME:

POST CODE: LE4____

Question Are you in favour of the installation of a MUGA?

HOUSE NUMBER: ______

Please circle one option YES / NO

Please give reasons for your answer

Please Tick

Any Additional Comments you wish to make

What is your age?

0 - 10 years old 11 - 20 years old 21 - 30 years old 31 – 40 years old 41+

Please send your completed forms to be checked and verified with the current electoral list to: Birstall Parish Council, Council Offices, Birstall Road, Birstall, Leicester, LE4 4DH or email: admin@birstallpc.org.uk This form is available to download and complete on the Parish Council website: www.birstallparishcouncil.org.uk The Council intend to run this consultation until 31 January 2023.

THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

If you have answered YES to the above question, what type of activity would you like included in the MUGA?

News from the churches

THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

the end of time, as Judge and to bring in His everlasting Kingdom, where there will be ‘no more death, sorrow, crying or pain’ and ‘all things will be made WE REALLY raised the roof of St James Monday Group new’. (Revelation 21: 4-5) Jesus told Church at the 'Last Night of the Proms' We meet at 7.30pm in the coffee shop, His followers: ‘I will come again and concert, organised by the Scouts, and everyone is welcome to join our receive you to Myself; that where I am, with rousing music from the Bilton friendly group. At our AGM last month, there you may be also.’ (John 14: 3). It Silver Band, the Heart of England Cho- we finalised our project for 2021/22 by is no surprise that almost the last words rus Barbershop Choir and a very vocal presenting a cheque for £2000 to the in the Bible are the call: ‘Come , Lord Birstall Playgroup for Children with Addiand enthusiastic audience who gave Jesus’. (Revelation 22: 20). tional Needs. A portion of the amount their all!

Our further look into the hymnbook was donated by the family of one of our (It is only fitting that a portion of the this month thus looks at two hymns much-missed members, in her memory. money raised will go towards mending which reflect this longing for Christ’s This year our project will be the local that same roof!). A wonderful evening Second Coming and both are written by branch of the Motor Neurone Disease with wonderful music.

Scottish ministers in the 19th Century.

Association.

Wonderful has got to be the word of The first is by Dr. John Ross Macduff the month, as St James hosted a wonder- Memorial service (1818-1895). His hymn begins: ‘Christ is On November 6 at 6pm, we will be fully welcoming and exciting confirmacoming! Let Creation from her groans tion service, with Bishop Saju officiating, holding a memorial service for those and travails cease’ and ends with: ‘With who have been bereaved. It is the first bringing seven candidates into the that blessed hope before us, Let our time we have been able to do this for Church. It was a real celebration, with joyful songs be sung; Let the mighty three years, and anyone is very welcome advent chorus onward roll from tongue the confirmations being followed by to attend, to have a time of rememlovely food and drinks to congratulate to tongue. Christ is coming! Come, Lord brance for their loved ones. the newly confirmed folk.

Jesus, quickly come!’

Birstall Methodist Church Christmas We have also celebrated our Harvest Our second writer is Dr. Horatius Festival Festival, and the donations of foods and Bonar (1808-1889), who wrote over Friday November 25, 10am - 6pm other items going to the Birstall Food 600 hymns. In ‘Come, Lord, and tarry Hub, with our prayers that it will make a and Saturday November 26, 10am-2pm not; Bring the long-looked-for day’, We are looking forward to this major difference to people's lives. Donations Bonar begins each verse with ‘Come’. If event. We will have decorated Christmas of food, clothing and toiletries, along you would like to know more about how trees in the church, craft stalls in the with small gifts, are also being collected to be ready for what John Newton calls: coffee shop, a warm lunch in the confor the annual Shoebox Appeal, and ‘Day of Judgment! Day of Wonders!’, then cert hall, and Santa of course! This year many of the boxes will, this year, go to please contact us: we are raising money for Christians Ukraine. There is also a specific appeal www.birstallbaptistchurch.org.uk or for Ukraine, donations for which will be Against Poverty.

0116 2214883. You are also most weltaken to the Ukraine Centre in Leicester. Toy Service come to join us for our Sunday services – Now that Christmas is looming large As if the weekend wasn’t busy enough, see Diary section for details. on the horizon, many people will be on Sunday November 27, we are holding From Birstall Independent Baptist remembering or celebrating events speour annual Toy Service. This is in supChurch cial to them at this time. port of the Toys on the Table charity A particularly lovely way to remember appeal in Leicestershire. The congregaA SPECIAL Mass was held on October is with flowers, which have a 'language' tion are encouraged to donate new toys 7 to celebrate the Feast of St Theresa all their own, as our florists know. Our for children, and toiletries for young of Lisieux, after whom our parish teams of flower arrangers at Birstall and people in their teens. This promises to Wanlip are willing to receive requests for be a lively time of worship, as well as an church in Birstall is named.

It was a lovely service, and we were arrangements to be placed in Church for opportunity to give to our community. joined by local ministers Canon Anne From Birstall Methodist Church your special occasion, or in memory of Horton from St James’ and Rev Paula a friend or family member. Contact Rev Hunt from the Methodist church. It is Amanda Digman on 07803 625049 in The Second Advent of Jesus Christ the first instance, and she will happily The last Sunday this month marks the our custom to present a gift (in the form of a statuette of St Theresa) to parishiontake your requests and contact our flow- start of Advent (the first coming of Jeers who have worked hard over many er power people. Donations towards the sus), and covers the four weeks leading years on behalf of the parish. In addition, flowers are welcome but not essential. up to Christmas, when we celebrate the Rev Paula also received a gift in recogniFrom Birstall Parish Churches incarnation (God being ‘born’ as man) tion of her continuing friendship and of the Lord Jesus Christ at Bethlehem. support.

One of the old hymns, dating from the At the time of writing, preparations Harvest festival 12th century, which we sing at this time are being finalized for the Induction Our celebration of harvest on Octoof year is “O come, O come, Immanuel ber 6 started with a lively and interesting [God with us]”, reminding us of Christ’s Mass for Fr Ted as our Parish Priest on October 21. There will be a report and time of worship with the Sunday Club work to ‘open wide our heavenly home; pictures in the next issue of the Birstall and the orchestra. Afterwards, we had a make safe the way that leads on high’. ‘bring and share’ lunch in the concert Although it is important to remember the Post.

November is Holy Souls month, when hall, with a wide selection of interesting Lord’s coming into this world as a man we hold in our prayers all those who food to suit every possible taste! The (for the work He had to do), Christians have died. There will be the poignant whole experience was valued by our also look forward with even more joy national and local Services of Rememcongregation, and the gifts of food were and eager expectation to Jesus’s Second brance for those who fell in the two donated to the Carpenters Arms the Advent. This is when He will come at following day.

world wars and other conflicts, of course. Our Care Group, which serves both St Theresa’s and Sacred Heart, has organized the annual Remembrance Mass which takes place on November 4 at 7pm. At this Mass, the families of those who have suffered a bereavement during the past year are at the heart of the service where their loved ones are remembered.

We have had a busy start to our autumn programme of activities and fundraising events. There was a very lively Quiz Night on October 14, which brought out plenty of friendly competitiveness among the quiz teams!

The Whetstone Players will be performing a Murder Mystery on November 25 at 7.30pm. This is a ticket-only event (to include a fish and chip supper).

Contact Daphne at St Theresa’s or Hazel at Sacred Heart.

Christmas is never far from our minds as the days shorten and this year we have our Bazaar on Saturday December 10 from 10 – 2pm. There will be a tempting range of goods for sale (perfect for those last-minute gifts) as well as a tombola and raffle. And if you feel peckish, there will be a fish and chip van in the car park! The choir will also be performing in the car park weather permitting.

Also working hard behind the scenes towards Christmas are the craft group and the choir. The craft group will be selling a range of hand-made items and holding a raffle during November, and the choir is practising for the Service of Readings and Carols (Sunday December 18) and their Christmas Concert (Tuesday December 20 at 6pm) as well as carol singing around Birstall (dates to be confirmed).

From St Theresa’s, Birstall The December issue of

THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Dec 3.

The copy deadline is Nov 18.

TERRY ALLEN

est. 2002

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19

Birstall BAG’s cancer corner Penile Cancer Birstall BAGs have been sharing information over the last few months about some of the less well-known cancers. There are around 200 types of cancer, and nearly half of the 375,000 people diagnosed with cancer each year in the UK are diagnosed with one of the less well-known or understood cancers.

This month we would like to share some information about Penile cancer.

Penile cancer is a rare cancer in the UK, about 700 men are diagnosed each year. It happens when abnormal penile cells grow in an uncontrolled way. It can develop anywhere on the penis, but is most common under the foreskin in men who haven’t been circumcised, or on the head of the penis (the glans).

Causes The exact cause of penile cancer is not known, but there are several risk factors.

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a common infection that spreads through close skin-to-skin contact, usually during sexual activity, including oral sex.

Around 8 out of 10 people (80%) in the UK get infected with the HPV virus at some time during their lifetime. For most people, the virus causes no harm and goes away without treatment. But men with human papilloma virus have an increased risk of developing cancer of the penis. Around 6 out of 10 (60%) penile cancer cases are caused

by HPV infection. Some types of HPV cause genital warts.

Penile cancer is more common in men aged 50 or over. It is uncommon in men under the age of 40.

The immune system fights infection and diseases like cancer in the body.

You may be at higher risk of penile cancer if you have a weakened immune system and other cancers.

Town centre fair ALL THE fun of the fair will be coming to Loughborough in November for the 801st year.

The historic Loughborough Fair, operated by Charnwood Borough Council, will be running from Wednesday, November 9, to Saturday, November 12.

Thousands of people attend the attraction which fills the town centre and last year it celebrated its special 800th anniversary.

The Beehive Lane multi-storey car park and Southfield Road car parks are available to park in during the hours of the fair. Southfield offices' car park will also be open to the public outside the Council’s opening times.

The opening times for Loughborough Fair 2022: Wednesday, November 9: 6pm until 11pm Thursday, November 10: 12pm until 11pm Friday, November 11: 11am until 11pm Saturday, November 12: 11 until 11pm.

Circumcision is a small operation to remove part, or all, of the foreskin.

Uncircumcised men may sometimes find it difficult to draw back their foreskin.

This is called phimosis. Men with phimosis have a higher risk of penile cancer than other men.

Psoriasis (pronounced sore-eye-ahsis) is a chronic skin condition. It is sometimes treated with a combination of a drug called psoralen and light therapy (phototherapy). This treatment is called PUVA and can also be a cancer treatment. Men who have had PUVA appear to have an increased risk of penile cancer.

Symptoms of penile cancer Cancer of the penis can cause the following symptoms but they can also be due to other medical conditions. If you have any of these symptoms it is important to see your GP. A growth or sore on your penis that doesn't heal within four weeks can be a symptom of penile cancer.

It can look like a wart, ulcer or blister and might not be painful. It is important to know what is normal for you.

Bleeding can be a sign of cancer, including from under your foreskin.

A foul-smelling discharge can occur due to an infection or because something is irritating the skin of the penis.

It can also be due to not washing often or thoroughly enough. Cancer of the penis is a much less common cause.

If you do not wash your penis every day, a cheese-like substance called smegma can build up. This is different from constant discharge. It is important to see your doctor if you notice something unusual for you.

You may notice that a rash develops on your penis. It is important to be aware of what is normal for you and report any changes to your doctor.

You may notice it becomes more difficult to draw back your foreskin.

You may see changes to the colour of your penis or foreskin. It is important to be aware of what is normal for you and report any changes to your doctor.

These other rare symptoms can be a sign of a more advanced cancer: a lump in the groin feeling tired abdominal (tummy) pain pain in the bones loss of weight Treatment There is a range of treatments available for penile cancer including chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy and laser treatment. Which treatment is most appropriate will depend on where the cancer is, how deep it has penetrated the tissue, the stage of the cancer and the person's general health. The important thing to note is there is plenty of treatment available and the earlier you seek medical attention the more likely you are to have a better outcome from the treatment.

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THE BIRSTALL POST will be published on Dec 3.

The copy deadline is Nov 18.

Planning P/22/1936/2: 60 Orchard Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4GE The erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 2.75m, with a maximum height of 4m, and height to the eaves of 2.7m.

P/22/1897/2: 4 Curzon Avenue Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4AA Proposed conversion of garage into habitable use, changes to fenestration and new porch extension P/22/1859/2: 9 Firfield Avenue Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4DS The erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 4.50m, with a maximum height of 3.80m, and height to the eaves of 2.48m.

P/22/1847/2: 36 Denegate Avenue Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3GG The erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 4m, with a maximum height of 3.5m, and height to the eaves of 2.35m.

BIRSTALL AND Wanlip WI met on October 3 at Birstall British Legion.

0116 2672583 Mob: 0796 7 191975

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

THE BIRSTALL POST YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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

0116 4422067

Open: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri: 9-5pm Wed & Sat: 9-1pm

The December issue of

WI news

Covering Leicestershire

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If you are concerned about any of the signs or symptoms described, please seek medical attention ASAP. EARLY DIAGNOSIS SAVES LIVES If there is a cancer you would like Birstall BAGS to cover, please contact us.

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 or look us up on Facebook or email birstallbags@hotmail.co.uk

Correspondence, news etc can be emailed or handed in at our office: Unit 109, Greenacres, The Sidings Leicester LE4 3BR,

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

Our speaker was Julie Kinnear who talked to us about the ‘Enigmatic Life’ of French fashion designer Coco Chanel.

We heard about last month’s activities including a walk around Belgrave Cemetery, a LOROS lunch, gardening at WI House and judging Birstall Bake Off. Activities up to Christmas include a Speaker’s Showcase evening, a trip to Stratford Christmas Market, The Wizard of Oz at the Curve, the Methodist Church Christmas Tree Festival and our own Christmas dinner. There are also opportunities to enter Federation craft and written competitions.

November 7 sees our AGM, when we review the past year and elect officers for 2023.

From Birstall & Wanlip WI

THE BIRSTALL POST NOVEMBER 2022

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