Birstall Post (480) July 2023

Bus review paused

Birstall chef’s TV challenge

A BIRSTALL chef is excited to be progressing through Channel 4’s new TV show, Five Star Kitchen: Britain’s Next Great Chef.

Jordan Brady, who runs JB kitchen on Lambourne Road, said: “To have been selected to cook alongside this group of chefs is somewhere I never thought I would be.”

Jordan is one of 13 chefs to take part in the show, broadcast each Thursday night on Channel 4.

In this new high-stakes competition, talented, up-and-coming chefs battle it out to prove they have the culinary skills and business brain to win a once-in-alifetime prize – running the Palm Court restaurant in the exclusive hotel, the Langham in London.

Set inside the hotel, the competition is judged by culinary legend, and Lang-

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A REVIEW of bus services that put routes at risk of being withdrawn has been paused.

The county council is to receive a share of a two-year £160m Government funding ‘pot’, which it says will help the authority to support the future of public transport, particularly in rural areas of the county.

One of the services that was to be reviewed was the 22B Saturday service to Birstall.

The council has been awarded £1.78m from first-year Bus Service Improvement Plan Plus (BSIP Plus) funding as part of Department for Transport (DfT) settlements to more than 60 local transport authorities in England.

The announcement has been welcomed by Councillor Ozzy O’Shea, cabinet member for highways and transport,

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Ethnic Wear

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Pic: Chef Jordan Brady, who runs JB kitchen on Lambourne Road

ham chef, Michel Roux Jr. Working with him are Ravneet, Gill, pastry supremo and hospitality consultant, and leading global restaurateur, Mike Reid.

Across six episodes, Roux and his team will put the chefs through a range of challenges designed to test the skills they’ll need to survive in the elite world of five-star dining. Not only must they prove they can deliver five-star cuisine, but also that they have what it takes to turn a profit and run a restaurant business at the highest level.

29-year-old Leicestershire-born Jordan was a self-confessed, badboy growing up – always in trouble with the police and struggling with drug abuse in his early years.

After a bad break-up, he eventually ended up homeless and had to live in the woods, hunting and eating rabbits to survive.

Walking miles to keep his job as a junior chef in the kitchen, he credits this as saving his life: first getting his own flat, and after years working his way up the ladder, to owning his own restaurant.

His signature dish is ‘rabbit in the woods’, to represent his journey and show off his concept that three simple flavours are all you need to make a luxury dish. It impressed the judges, getting him through to round two, when he had to make an expensive dish using the finest ingredients, followed by a two-course lunch for £30.

Jordan said: “This is cooking at the highest level in one of the most exclusive hotels in the world. Do I have what it takes to be a five-star chef?”

Five Star Kitchen, 8pm Thursdays, Channel 4.

Local canoeists are medallists

SOAR VALLEY Canoe Club have their boathouse at the Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre on Loughborough Road and recently took a team of 14 paddlers to the 62nd International Liffey Descent in Ireland.

The race is one of the top canoeing events in Europe. Competitors race the 18 miles from the K club in county Kildare, to the Garda rowing club in Dublin. A large release of water provided by the Irish electricity board ensures the river Liffey is full to create a testing course for paddlers, who must shoot ten weirs, several rapids and run with their boats for 500 metres around a dam.

The club chairman Richard Vincent is from Birstall. He said: “This was probably our most successful Liffey so far, with a total of three golds, three silvers and one bronze medal.”

Results:

Jacob Holmes

1st senior white water racer

Colin Smith /Colin Cartwright

1st Senior Canadian double

Richard Vincent/Patrick Allinson

1st over 49 kayak double Jamie Christie/Emma Christie

2nd mixed kayak double Brian Mcnaulty/Dave Bradburn

2nd senior Canadian double Kerry Christie

2nd. Senior white water racer

(Kerry raced in the senior men’s class because the ladies class was not quorate)

Malcolm Blowers

3rd masters kayak single.

Pics: (left)Kerry Christie; (above) Jamie Christie/Emma Christie (on the right shaking hands with the class winners)

Blue skies and sunshine at Birstall gala!

MEMORIES OF last year’s soggy Saturday were banished at Birstall Gala when sizzling summer sunshine helped visitors enjoy one of the biggest events in the village’s calendar.

Organised by Birstall Parish Council, the event featured performances by local bands and stalls, funfair rides, entertainment and a Proms in the Park concert with firework finale.

Chair of the Events Committee at Birstall Parish Council, Kirsty Haywood, said: “What a fantastic turn out to Birstall Gala. Great to see families out in the sunshine enjoying themselves. The gala is a culmination of a year of planning and week of setting up and we definitely had the right weather for it.”

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as an opportunity to “help us better shape the public transport offer in our rural areas.”

And while the council assesses how the funding allocation will be distributed, Councillor O’Shea is encouraging people to get back on the buses and take advantage of a current £2 fare cap extended by the Government as part of the announcement.

Councillor O’Shea has also confirmed that the council will be pausing the passenger transport policy and strategy review of the services, which the council currently subsidises, although more than 90 per cent of the bus network is run by the commercial sector.

However, the council has also made it clear that the funding boost does not mean it will reinstate bus services withdrawn over the past few months.

Councillor O’Shea added: “It is vital that bus services offer value-for-money and, in using this additional money from Government, we need to ensure it is directed to offer greater connectivity for our communities, rather than continuing to subsidise low-value services.”

The DfT will announce BSIP Plus funding for 2024/25 later in the year.

Pic: Soloist Jenny Saunders performing with the Hathern Band; (above right) Birstall PCSO Jon Harrison looks on as visitors pose for pics behind the wheel of a Police car

Rebecca runs first marathon for MNDA

BIRSTALL’S REBECCA Warrington has completed the inaugural Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, raising funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

Last year she ran seven half marathons in seven consecutive weekends, also for the MNDA.

Rebecca writes: When I started running in 2018, I said I didn’t want to run a marathon. So many people after the 7

in 7 said that I should run a marathon or that I should just run London. I still didn’t want to run a marathon and I certainly didn’t want to run a generic one like London. If I was going to do it, I wanted to run one which meant something. Then Kevin Sinfield announced the Rob Burrow Marathon on Breakfast TV in May 2022, and I’d signed up before the end of the interview. As had 12,000 other people by the time we all got to the start line. I signed up with no goal,

other than to raise as much money and awareness as I could and complete the course before the road closures were lifted and without medical assistance.

This was in June last year, May 2023 seemed so far away. Plenty of time to start training.

Training started on New Years Day 2023, in the middle of one of the coldest, driest most unpredictable winters on record. Running four times per week with yoga and strength sessions. Marathon running certainly isn’t easy and it does take over your life. Midweek runs ranging from 5k to 8 miles with hills and speedwork built in and long runs on a Saturday, still trying to incorporate my beloved Watermead parkrun.

But the training was paying off, a 5-minute PB over the half Marathon in Cambridge was a good yard-stick to see where I was at. It was after this that the wheels fell off. In March, in the snow, I turned my ankle. I heard a loud pop/clunk. I had a cricket ball size lump on the side of my ankle and was sat in an ambulance on the way to the Royal with a suspected broken ankle. I sat in the triage area waiting for my scans, I told my ankle that unless you are broken you will be running the marathon. I told the doctor that I had a marathon to run in May, he said my ankle wasn’t broken but there was an 8-week recovery time, so I would be unlikely to be running a marathon. He had no measure of my determination to run this marathon. After two weeks off and some very

intense physio, I was ready to build back up to distance. I knew I would be undercooked for the marathon, but as MND awareness and completion were the goals, not sub 4 hours, it was a case of remembering to be kind to myself and complete my goals.

On the start zone at Headingly stadium, I was very, very nervous. But I shouldn’t have been - the whole of the very large start area was awash with orange and blue MND vests all there as one big team. It was very emotional when I crossed the start line, the wall of

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Pics: Rebecca Warrington running the Leeds Marathon

Three new houses

PLANS FOR a row of three terraced houses on The Crossways have been submitted to Charnwood Borough Council.

The plans show the houses will be located behind what was formally Glenwood Fine Art, and opposite The Crossways car park. There will be provision for three parking spaces within the site.

Charnwood has returned the application to the applicant, as it has been completed incorrectly.

The reference is P/23/0917/2.

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noise cheering us off was like nothing I had ever heard. The start itself saw us head into Leeds centre with an out and back section. After about 3 miles, I saw Kev pushing Rob Burrow in his chair heading back the other way about 5 miles in, again that was very emotional. It was time to settle into the running, as I had lots of it to do. As with all long runs, you join up with people and hear their stories and then break up as they or you feel better or worse. I heard stories about loved ones, carers, support available and research that still needs to be carried out into causes of this disease and the continued hunt for cures. It is those stories and those friendships born out of shared experiences which get you round when your legs hurt, or when you realise just how massive Otley Hill is (5k of uphill if you needed to know).

Heading back into Leeds after five hours of running was great, partly because it was downhill, but mainly because the crowds were still out in force. The people of Leeds really got behind this event and understood what it was trying to do for one of their own. The finish line was very special, on the pitch at Headingly stadium with all the supporters and fans cheering you in. Even managed to answer a question often asked of people who run against me: can you manage a sprint finish at the end of a marathon? Yes, apparently, I can. After the 7 in 7 last year, I thought nothing would top that feeling, but this does, in a different way. I completed it in 5hrs 40, which means I achieved my goals of completing before the road closures were removed and I didn’t need medical help. I have also raised just under £600 so far.

I’m happy to have completed it and so proud of the funds and awareness I have bought to MND. I will continue to fly the colours at future running events.

•Rebecca is fundraising for the Motor Neurone Disease Association on justgiving.com, if you would like to donate.

Birstall couple’s 70th anniversary

A BIRSTALL couple have celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.

Douglas Derry and Patricia (nee Stewart) met when they were 15 years old, fell in love and married five years later, aged 21 and 20 respectively, on June 6, 1953, just three days after the coronation of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Douglas (Doug) was educated at Moat Road Boys School and spent 32 years as a serving Police Officer in Leicester, retiring as a Sergeant. Aged 70 and as an avid reader of the classics, Doug sat and passed his first 'A' level exam in English Literature, following two years of study at Longslade College.

Patricia (Pat), originally from Great Yarmouth, had been evacuated aged seven to Nottingham and then Leicester due

to the threat of heavy bombing in Great Yarmouth. Now, aged 90, Pat is taking computer lessons to improve her IT proficiency.

Pat and Doug have two children, five grandchildren and two (and a half) great-grandchildren and celebrated their anniversary with family and friends at a party on Saturday June 3, in Birstall.

Daughter Karen said: “They truly are wonderful, kind and jolly people who are as much in love now as ever - they still give each other a Valentine’s card every February 14!”

includes: For quotes and details please ring: Mob: 0776 6755515 0116 212 9344

All other work considered

Pics: Doug and Pat Derry are celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary; (left) on their wedding day

Action packed coronation Scout camp

BIRSTALL SCOUTS celebrated the King’s coronation on a four day camp.

Cub Leader Sue Farnham reports: 20 scouts with six leaders of Birstall Scout group headed out to camp, and we started our celebrations once the kit was unloaded with royal crafts and games.

The next morning, 20 cubs and beavers joined us for an action-packed day of activities; we tried shooting, mountain boarding, go-karting and caving, which was very wet due to the rain. We built shelters and lots more. The site church, St Thomas’s, was opened to allow us to ring the church bells to celebrate the coronation, and every member on site had a go, some more vigorous than others. Once the day-visitors had left, the campers lit a fire, toasted marshmallows and waited for dinner.

On Sunday, the campers were to cook their own lunch on a fire built by themselves. Some fires took longer than others, and some young people thought they were going to starve. In true scouting spirit, the older scouts helped the younger cubs and everyone was fed. Our coronation lunch, served at night, was very traditional and the Eton mess went down very well.

The weekend was full of crafts, games, frivolity and ended in a giant water fight.

Thank you to all the young people involved for making the coronation memorable. Thank you to all the leaders involved for giving up their time and a special thanks to Rachel (Cub Leader) who organised the whole thing.

If you want to be involved, we are always looking for adult volunteers to join our team, we take children from four to 18 in various sections. Please email Birstall53rd@outlook.c om for more information.

NICK’S PEST CONTROL

Amy and Lee’s London Marathon story

TWO RUNNERS from Birstall completed the London marathon in April, raising money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association and LOROS.

Amy Coombe (35) and Lee Mansfield (37) were inspired to run by Stuart Preston who was diagnosed with MND in January 2022. Stuart, who grew up in Birstall, is Amy’s uncle and Lee’s fatherin-law.

Amy, of Orchard Road, said: “Stuart inspired me to get into running many years ago, after watching him in the London Marathon several times.”

It was Lee’s first marathon, but Amy’s second. She said: “It was an amazing experience, even more so remembering why we were doing it. When the legs felt like they couldn’t go anymore, I ran with my heart.”

Lee, who lives on Colindale Avenue, said: “I chose to support that charity in

honour of Stu. He was diagnosed in 2022 after being a keen long-distance runner for many years. He has now lost the use of his hands, arms and legs and almost all of his speech.

“He has inspired me to complete a challenge which I wouldn’t have even considered, or even dreamt of

before, to be his legs for the day. Stu is my father-in-law, and we have always had a close relationship as we have a shared love of woodworking and upcycling. The charity MNDA has supported Stu and our family, and we hope that by raising funds for them, we can help in their search for a cure for this horrible disease.”

Lee had never run a marathon before and had only been running for eight

months before the race.

He said: “I didn’t sleep the night before, because of nerves!”

He finished the race in 4 hours, 35 minutes, and Amy’s time was 5 hours, 22 minutes.

Amy and Lee have so far raised £5500. To donate, go to justgiving.com, and search for ‘Amy Coombe’ or ‘Lee Mansfield’.

Pics: Marathon runners Amy and Lee

You Do Not have to be without Neighbourhood Watch in Your Street

While the overall managing group for Neighbourhood Watch in Birstall and Wanlip is closing down, it provides the opportunity for local areas to set up their own smaller schemes that are much easier to manage and adapt to their own needs.

There is a lot of support and advice available both locally and nationally. All that it needs is for somebody to take the initiative and find out how may of their neighbours are interested in joining together to protect each other from criminal activity. It could be just a few houses or flats, part or all of a street, or a group of streets.

For the few months that Birstall and Wanlip Neighbourhood Watch will continue in existence, we shall be glad to give what assistance we can.

Email us at: watch@villagewatch.co.uk

Information about the new Watch organisation for Leicestershire can be found at: www.nhwleicestershire.co.uk

These web links have guidance and information about Neighbourhood Watch and why it is important to be a member

www.ourwatch.org.uk

www.nwnshop.myshopify.com

www.ourwatch.org.uk/crime‐prevention

www.youtube.com/watch?v=gy5ZMb_qaLw

Birstall Burglaries

There were a number of burglaries in Birstall during May that occurred during the day when the occupants were out. This was after a welcome drop during the previous two months.

Please make sure that you check that all doors and windows are locked before you leave home and always set your burglar alarm, even if you are going out for only a short time. Potential thieves will be on the lookout for easy pickings and will usually chose a poorly secured property over one that is more difficult for them to break into. Do not make it easy for them.

Always keep valuable items in a secure place, such as a safe, and do not leave them lying around in plain sight where they can easily be seen by a burglar.

If you spot someone acting suspiciously, please tell the Police. If it looks as if a crime is in progress dial 999 immediately.

If you just think something does not look right, still call them on 101 to tell them about your concern.

Our Local Police Beat Team produces a monthly Newsletter with news of crime and other local issues.

You can read it in full each month on our website: www.villagewatch.co.uk/police

The Fatal Four

The Police conduct regular roadside checks for the four driving offences that lead to the majority of road accidents, injuries and deaths.

Speeding ● Mobile Phones

SeatBelts ● DrinkandDrugs

Parking Issues

The majority of the streets in Birstall are not subject to yellow line or other restrictions and anyone is allowed to use a parking space on a first‐come‐first‐served basis, even if it is directly outside your house. This can be frustrating, especially if spaces are scarce, and can sometimes lead to heated disputes between neighbours.

The pavement is deemed to be obstructed when a vehicle is parked on it leaving less than 1.2 metres clearance, forcing pedestrians or mobility scooters into the road to get past. Parking enforcement was once the sole concern of the Police but responsibility is now shared with, in our case, Charnwood Borough and Leicestershire County Councils. The Police still have powers to deal with dangerous parking.

It is a complicated issue with no easy solution. You can find more information at: www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages/parkingenforcement

Mental health café

A NEW mental health café is opening in Syston and will welcome visitors from the surrounding villages.

Neighbourhood Mental Health Cafés offer local support for people who need immediate help with their mental health. The cafés are drop-in centres for anyone to come and talk about their mental health – no appointment is needed.

Tracey Pollard, from the RCC (Rural Community Council Charity Leicestershire & Rutland), will be running the Syston Mental Health Café. She said: “Having a Neighbourhood Mental Health Café in Syston will make a real difference to the town and the surrounding areas – with over 12,000 residents in Syston alone, and great access links to other local villages, it makes the perfect place for someone to be able to access mental health support in their local area, without having to travel into the city”.

After running a local project primarily targeting mental health in Melton & Rutland for the last two years, Tracey knows how important this café will be in helping and supporting people with urgent mental health and well-being needs.

“We wanted to create a unique café, combining a welcoming, safe space for socialising, and a confidential area for individual support, where people can feel calmer and more confident about getting the help they need locally,” she said.

“Our rural coffee connect barista coffee van will attend each café, offering free hot drinks to anyone who comes along – a warm drink and a listening ear go a long way in helping people feel more supported and positive about their future.”

The Syston café will start on Thursday, June 22, from 12pm – 3pm at the Syston Community Centre, School Street, Syston LE7 1HN. It will run every Thursday from that date.

Tracey said: “Everyone is welcome, and we hope that this will become a local hub for anyone struggling to cope and give them the support they need to move forward and improve their mental health and wellbeing.”

For more information on the café, call or text Tracey on 07752 183044.

FOOTBALL REFEREE Minesh

referee wins award

Gupta from Birstall has been recognised for his work encouraging people to become a match official, winning a national award.

Minesh (45) has been a football referee for more than 25 years. He said: “My passion for diversity started 10 years ago when I couldn’t see many people that looked like me.

“So I wondered why, and through various kinds of research, found it was just not appealing for anyone to become a referee, and there was no real targeted intervention. In recent years this has become better, but the lower end of the game, and higher, still lacks South Asian people getting into refereeing. There are a number of stakeholders trying their best to help the problem, but still loads more work to be done locally.”

Minesh started a campaign called ‘FindOurRef’ a year ago, and Minesh visits Faith Schools, Community Centres, BAM Grassroot Football Clubs, Temples and Diversity Events promoting refereeing.

In June, Minesh was invited to Wembley Stadium for the Football Association’s first ever National Referees Awards, where he was the overall winner in the

Championing Diversity category.

He said: “The award means so much to me, as the work I have been doing is only the start, and there is a long way to go. Since starting my work, I have generated leads for people to begin their refereeing journey which makes me proud, as I am contributing towards the FA National Strategy around Recruitment.”

Minesh started refereeing in grassroots lower down the leagues, but now officiates at Step 3-4 football, which is non-league, semi-pro. He is an assistant referee on the National League North, and coaches new referees that are trying to progress in the men’s and women’s game.

New Leicester charging bays

NEW on-street electric vehicle charging bays are set to be introduced across Leicester city centre later this year.

Leicester City Council is proposing to create 38 new electric vehicle charging bays at ten locations in and around the city centre following a successful bid for £480,000 of funding from the Government’s Office for Zero Emission Vehicles.

The new charging bays will replace some standard pay-and-display parking bays and will feature a mix of fast and rapid charging points.

Parking in the new charging bays will be free for electric vehicles on-street but there will be a charge at Dover Street and Glenfield Road car parks. Drivers will need to pay to use the chargers.

Rapid charging bays will have a daytime parking restriction of up to one hour. Fast charging bays will also have time restrictions on their use, but these will vary depending on location.

Any vehicle found parked in a charging bay without a cable attached will incur a fixed penalty notice. All bays will be clearly signed as ‘Electric vehicle recharging point only’.

The charging bays are intended to provide a top-up service. Rapid chargers can give up to an 80 per cent charge within an hour, with fast chargers providing around half of that over two hours.

Evening parking in the charging bays will be unlimited and free for electric vehicles.

The ten locations where the new charging bays will be installed:

Pic: Minesh (centre) with senior leaders at the FA, Peter Elsworth (right), Head of Refereeing and Mark Bullingham, CEO of the FA.

Noticeboard

all details printed free

Free IT help!

10am-12pm

Third Tuesday Every Month

Birstall Methodist Coffee Shop

Wanlip Lane, Birstall

No Need To Book – Just Drop In!

Free “Drop

In” session from Age UK to help you use a smart-

YOUR SAY...

phone, tablet, I-Pad or laptop computer.

Never used a computer?

No problem! We can lend one to get you started!

0116 204 5117

digitalchampions@ageukleics.org. uk

Once again after a very successful show in 2022 Birstall scouts & St James’ Birstall parish church are putting on a

Last Night of the Proms Show

Regularly you can see the small kids training on the street and up people's drive when his parents park on double yellow lines to pick their kids up. No adult is ever with these children.

Also I am aware a while ago when somebody I knew asked to see the DBS and Carl couldn't produce them only his, all workers/volunteers should have one. There are a lot more issues I could raise but I won't as this is not a muck slinging fight.

Yes Carl you do a good job but asking for a handout is over stepping the mark in my eyes.

or if you get them in advance £8 per person and £20 for a family of four (two adults and two children under 12)

We are proud to have the Bilton Silver Rugby Band to preform for us once again this year. It will be all the familiar music and songs, and lots of flag waving If you would like tickets please phone the number below 0116 2674031 or 07842336745

Or from St James’ church office

The Charnwood Orchestra

End of season concert

Big Birstall Yard Sale 2023

Saturday July 8, 10am-2pm

Message, text, phone 07841448511 to be added to the map (free of charge or donation) Map will be digital this year and posted a week before the date If you would like to donate any amount please drop off payment to 68 Gwendolin Ave, Birstall. All monies to go to Helping the Community-Pay it Forward

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

E-scooters

Is anyone else in the village concerned about e-scooters riding on pavements? A lady on the pavement was killed by one in Nottingham only a few months ago. Whenever I go out I see e-scooters, with riders of various ages, riding about on pavements. I have contacted the police and they are not interested, even though these vehicles are illegal. I contacted the Police and Crime Commissioner and got a standard reply that he has written to MPs to “clarify” the law. What can be done about it? Is this a Council matter, possibly County Council?

Name & address supplied

Sour grapes?

To say that I am flabbergasted to read that Carl Gunns has the cheek about not receiving any donations from the duck race. Is this sour grapes? I am nothing what so ever to do with the duck race organisers. I am sure they put in a lot of unpaid work into setting up a terrific day which they took over from Mr Green several years ago.

I see Mr Gunns gets lots of donations including from Birstall parish council. These other groups don't get this advantage.

But what worries me the most though are two things:

Name & address supplied

Regarding kids training in the drive, I have got permission from The Grange for people to skip there.

Regarding the dropping off, that is untrue, they all park on the car park, or most of them, you might get the odd one. Parking on the yellow lines has nothing to do with the gym.

All volunteers and workers in the gym have got a DBS, I wouldn’t allow them to work with the children if they did not have one.

Please get your facts right before writing letters to the Birstall Post. If you feel you would like to come and talk to me, I’d be glad to talk to you and explain what we do at the gym.

The situation between the gym, and the duck race has been finalised, the gym did receive some money sometime ago from the duck race, but I wasn’t told it had come from the duck race, or I wouldn’t have written my letter to the Birstall Post about The White Horse.

I would like to apologise if I have personally upset anybody connected with the duck race.

Carl Gunns

Fantastic job

What a fantastic job our Birstall street cleaner does in keeping our pavements and green spaces clean. He certainly gets around from one end of Birstall to the other end and I never see him standing around.

I think we are very lucky to have someone who is so proactive in his work and really seems to care.

He’s a keeper for Birstall I hope!

I think his name is Max.

Many thanks From a resident, Roman Road

June 24, 2023, 7.30pm

Church of St James the Greater, London Road, Leicester LE2 1NE

Tchaikovsky: Capriccio Italien, Glazunov: Violin Concerto - Soloist Seb Wyss –Shostakovich: Symphony No.6 Tickets can be reserved in advance by emailing tickets@chanrnwoodorchestra.org .uk for more options please visit, www.charnwoodorchestra.org.uk

Birstall Royal British Legion Club

Front St, Birstall

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

8th July Billy de Laine Steve male vocalist

22nd July TBC

Friday 28th July music quiz starting at 8.30pm

Room hire available for Wakes, ring 07894715049

Cedar Care Circle

Home Grown Potatoes: White Red Mozart

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

Horse & Pony Feeds, Goat Feeds, Poultry Feeds, Rabbit Food, Hay Straw & Shavings

Manure, Woodchip Mulch

DIY Liveries

In aid of the church and the Scouts Saturday 30th September at 7pm doors open from 6.30pm Tickets £10 per head on the door James 07802 915559

FIREWOOD: bulk loads delivered

If you or someone you know is caring for a spouse, parent, partner or friend who has dementia, why not join us for a couple of hours at Brunchies cafe Hallam Fields Road Birstall? Our meetings in July are the 10th and 24th at 1pm. You will be made most welcome.

We are a social group brought together by the diagnosis of dementia. Just to talk to fellow carers about their ways of coping with this 24/7 role helps so much. Just drop in as and when you can. My name is Barbara and you can contact me on 07905760556 if you'd like to chat

WANTED: grazing land to buy, not to rent. For a pony. Ring Dean 07305 800777

Ex Longslade Pupils between 1970 – 1980

School Reunion

Sunday 16th July

At Birstall Village Cricket Club School Lane Playing Fields

From 1pm – 6pm

In December 2014 Tony Sabey set up a facebook page for pupils who attended Longslade School from 1970 to 1980, he is now assisted by Su Pollard. The group was set up to help people keep in touch with old friends, have a bit of a gossip, a laugh and to share photographs and stories of the “good old days” The group has gone from strength to strength with almost 500 members. It was thought that it would be great to

have a reunion and also reach out to those that do not use social media, here are the details. What better place to celebrate and meet up, than on the park where most of us played as children and probably now take our grandchildren! The cricket club has seating inside and around 30 outdoor seats. If a lot of us are able to make it, it might be worth bringing an outdoor seat of your own. Hopefully the weather will be kind, the gazebos will be up and the club bar will definitely be open.

Perhaps you could bring your old school photographs, embarrassing or not! We can make new memories and have a great afternoon.

The Brand

Open Grounds

Colonel Robert and Mrs Janie Martin are kindly allowing the Charnwood Group of the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust to hold an event in the grounds of The Brand, Woodhouse Eaves, to raise funds for the Trust.

The grounds will be open on Sunday 10th September 2023 from 11am until 4pm when there will be guided walks, wildlife activities, refreshments and more. This is a wonderful opportunity to visit this beautiful Charnwood estate and to find out more about the wildlife there.

The entrance fee will be £6 for adults and £2 for children. Money raised will go to the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust.

Birstall Tea Dances

Held at St James, Birstall Village Hall

Birstall Road

Birstall

LE4 4DH

Fridays 14th & 28th July

£6 each on the door

Tea/coffee included into entrance

price

Home made cakes but we ask for donations

Further information contact Jackie 07908607405 or email: lucasjackie86@gmail.com

Parish Council notes

A FULL meeting of Birstall Parish Council was held on June 12.

County Councillor Dan Grimley reported that a review of bus services that put routes at risk of being withdrawn had been paused. One of the routes was the Birstall 22B service. He encouraged people to use the service and said there was a good chance it would be retained.

A member of the public urged councillors to vote in favour of the proposal to provide a Covid mural on a wall in The Crossways car park.

Linda Pile was co-opted to fill a vacancy on the council.

Artist Giles Meakin presented his report on the progress he has made with preparations for a Covid mural on the wall of The Crossways car park.

All Birstall’s schools have been invited to participate in the project, but only Highcliffe School had responded. Giles worked with 60 Highcliffe pupils to produce a draft design that was presented to councillors. The design features three panels: before, during and after Covid. Mr Meakin said the design would take about two weeks to paint on the wall, and should last around 20 years.

Several councillors commented favourably about the design and congratulated the children that had been involved. The clerk reported that there may be grant funding to help pay for the project.

It was agreed to authorise the expenditure of £3520 to proceed with the project.

The police report was presented by PCSO John Harrison. He said that crime figures for burglary were looking good at the moment.

The council agreed to spend £1791 on motor insurance for the council’s vehicles.

Councillors discussed undertaking a governance review, conducted by the

Leicestershire and Rutland Association of Local Councils. The process involves LRALC consultants visiting the council, speaking to councillors, staff, volunteers, and stakeholders, and then issuing a report, making a series of observations and recommendations, based on statute, proper practices, and good governance standards.

The council agreed to authorise the expenditure of £2000 to proceed with the review.

Councillors received the monthly report from Young Leicestershire, the providers of the youth service run from the pavilion in the school Lane playing field. It was reported that there had been a ‘nasty incident’ that had resulted in the police being called. Issues were raised regarding the effectiveness of the safeguarding of the young people present. PCSO John Harrison reported that the police knew the people involved in the incident and that he liked to think that the police could talk to these individuals and stop a similar incident from happening again. Several councillors expressed their concerns about the safety of the young people at the facility and the low numbers of young people attending.

The chief executive of Young Leicestershire will be attending the August meeting, and it was agreed to send a letter to the organisation asking if they can guarantee the safety of the young people attending and if not, to pause the provision until the August meeting.

Councillors discussed a proposal to purchase Tommy statue figures from the Royal British Legion. Each figure costs £175.

It was agreed in principle to support the proposal, subject to the provision of further details.

Councillor Kirsty Haywood attended a meeting of the Broadnook Foundation

and presented a report. The foundation is a liaison group that shares information about the progress of the Broadnook Garden suburb development with representatives from neighbouring parishes. Cllr Haywood reported that the developers are currently on target with the work so far. She said it would be 2027 before a new parish was created for the development.

She reported that the developers described the ‘short-term pain’ for Birstall in phase one of the development, due to pressure on education and health facilities.

Chair Robert Vincent commented that the developers seem to have no concern at all for the impact of Broadnook on Birstall.

New website

BIRSTALL MEDICAL Centre has launched its redesigned website.

“It is clearer and easier for patients to use,” said Edmund Chambers, Chairman of the Patient Participation Group.

“It contains information about the practice, the services it offers with advice on how to make best use of them, as well as links to do such things as order repeat prescriptions and make appointments.”

The website is designed to be accessed on most computers, tablets and smartphones.

Birstall Medical Centre’s main site is on Whiles Lane, Birstall, with a satellite site on Border Drive in Beaumont Leys.

www.birstallmedicalcentre.com

NHW news & crime report

Property Fraud

Your home is probably the most valuable asset you own, but are you aware that it can be the target of fraud? Whoever’s name appears on the Land Registry is the legal owner of the property. While it is a rare occurrence, a fraudster can steal the title and own your home.

This is most commonly done through identity theft, when someone pretends to be you and goes through the conveyancing process of selling your property to another innocent buyer. They become the legal owner, and it is almost impossible for you, the original owner, to recover it.

It would be very difficult to do this when the owner is actually living in the property but this is not always the case, and there is a greatly increased risk of fraud when:

• a property has no outstanding mortgage that would have to be cleared

• a property is empty or has been bought to let

• the owner spends time abroad or is otherwise absent

• the owner is infirm or in a nursing or care home

• a relationship has broken down

It is important, therefore, that you do whatever you can to protect your home from this risk.

HM Land Registry offers a service that will alert you if there is any activity affecting the registered ownership of a property. You can monitor:

• any property that is already registered with the Land Registry

• the property of a relative; you do not have to own the property to set up an alert

• up to ten properties at a time

You will receive an email alert whenever there is activity on any of the properties you are monitoring.

An alert will tell you the type of activity (such as an application to change the register or if a new mortgage is taken out), who the applicant is and the date and time it has been received.

Not all alert emails will mean fraudulent activity. If you do not think the alert is about anything suspicious, you do not

Elliott & Ball

need to do anything.

Signing up to Property Alert will not automatically stop fraud from happening. You will have to decide whether the activity on the property is potentially fraudulent and then act quickly. The alert email will tell you who to contact.

Create a Property Alert account by going to the web address: propertyalert.landregistry.gov.uk

Ed Chambers, Watch Chairman, Birstall & Wanlip NHW

Current Priorities

Charnwood Police

Burglaries - Local Police are aiming to reduce burglaries at domestic dwelling in the area

Local Officers will engage with the community proving crime prevention advice, encourage the use of security measures to make properties more secure. Attending reports of burglaries to secure any evidence and pursue reasonable lines of enquiries to identify any offenders.

Vehicle Crime

Tackling all elements of vehicle crime

Police aim to tackle different elements of vehicles crime such as theft, TWOC and ASB caused by vehicles

Police aim to tackle vehicle crime by the use of Problem management profiles. This will be targeted patrol times to disrupt the use of ASB with vehicles, disruption tactics on a wider scale using specialist officers.

Theft and associated offences will be targeted by pursuing reasonable lines of enquiry to assist identify and prosecute offenders in a timely manner

Tackling County Lines

Police are developing and targeting people within the area that are drug dealing, exploiting vulnerable people by cuckooing addresses and causing antisocial behaviour from this type of crime.

Gathering intelligence from the community, providing a robust response by executing search warrants, applying any necessary closures order to stop the criminality and protect the public.

Birstall Specific

Theft (retail specific) - Due to the high amount of retail Thefts being reported within Birstall the local beat team will be completing a review, working with retail outlets in order to offer recommendation linked to target hardening/crime prevention and requesting support from partner agencies with the aim of identifying and targeting the offenders, leading to a reduction in crime.

our roads, that is very well established. As a policing team we will be out on the roads at locations highlighted by local residents on a sporadic basis. Please watch your speed. If you are concerned about road safety in Birstall & Wanlip —Request enforcement and make a difference. Find out more by visiting the Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland Road Safety Partnership website: www.speedorsafety.com where you can complete a short Community Concern Site Request.

A message from PC 1365 Stu Venables

I am pleased to inform you that as a result of information and intelligence received we have been able to secure a couple of search warrants from the magistrate court in order to enter a couple of addresses within Birstall. One of those addresses was located on Loughborough Road, no Cannabis plants were found being cultivated at this address, however some other concerns were identified which are being addressed.

The second address was at the old Barclays Bank located on Sibson Road, officers surrounded the location on Wednesday the 14th of June 2023 and executed the warrant, during which time two males were arrested and a large number of cannabis plants seized— Investigation is ongoing.

As you can see we are listening and despite not being able to see things happen immediately off the back of information you may provide or reports you have made, we are working very hard behind the scenes to develop intelligence and hold those accountable that are causing harm within our community.

We will be continuing to develop information and intelligence and will with no doubt be knocking on some more doors soon with our big red key.

I would like to thank the Neighbourhood Priority Team (NPT) that are based out of Loughborough Police station as with their ongoing help and support the issues that are being highlighted by local residents within Birstall and Wanlip, are being developed and addressed in a more prompt and effective response.

ted by youths not using the facilities. We are aware of who are mainly involved in regards to this and will be challenging them with their parents/guardians and partner agencies and going forward we will also be aiming to visit the youth café whilst being run, in order to engage with the users and to reduce any further issues at the location.

Lastly please consider signing up to Neighbourhood Link, this allows us to send messages (email or text) to specific neighbourhoods, and therefore relevant target audience and therefore enable us to keep you better updated in relation to is happening and also give you a opportunity to respond privately. Please visit the website below for further details.

All the best and stay safe

PC 1365 Stu Venables

Crime Update

Crime summary— Birstall and Wanlip

23rd of May 2023 until 19th of June 2023

Violence with injury 5

Violence without injury 15

Vehicle Crime 7

Shoplifting 4

All other theft offences 6

Criminal Damge 5

Public Disorder 6

Drug Trafficking 1

Misc Crimes 2

Last Burglary dwelling reported to have been committed within Birstall and Wanlip was on May 21, 2023 on Curzon Avenue.

In regards to the vehicle crime the vast majority relate to theft of number plates.

Events

Beat Surgery - Saturday July 29, 2023 - Between 10am and 12pm located at the Robert Dickinson Building on Sibson Road (within the Short Stay car park)

211637

Tel: 0116 2692167

Mob: 0792 1703 765

Drugs - Development of intelligenceLocal officers are out and about within Birstall and Wanlip, speaking to local residents to gather current/accurate information and intelligence that can be acted upon in order to hold drug dealers/users accountable, which will subsequently make our streets a safer place.

Road Safety - Excess SpeedSpeeding vehicles is an ongoing issue on

Since we arrested the male that was committing burglaries within Birstall and getting him remanded into HMP we have not had any further Burglaries reported within Birstall & Wanlip, which is absolutely fantastic news. However please do not become complacent by ensuring your home/property is safe and secure—don’t leave windows/door open and remain vigilant and please consider reporting any suspicious activity to us without delay.

Police have received reports of ASB surrounding the youth Café on School Lane, Playing fields, that is being commit-

Please feel free to attend, to meet your local officer, ask any questions or discuss any community concerns you may have. Additionally local residents can bring their cycles to the surgeries to have them officially marked for free — Information regarding the scheme can be found on the website: www.bikeregister.com or explained on the day.

Upcoming events

We are holding a BikeRegister event between 10am and 2pm on Sunday July 30 on Whiles Lane, Birstall. Feel free to bring along you cycle and get it marked for free.

I am also planning on conducting further road safety operations, this will be targeted towards the fatal four offences (Speed, Drink/Drugs, Seat belt and Mobile Phone) around Birstall & Wanlip. PCSO 6174 Jon Harrison will be look-

Pic: Birstall Beat Team (l-r) PS242 Alice Forfar, PC1365 Stu Venables, PCSO 6389 Nuala Sherlock, PCSO 6174 Jon Harrison

ing to conduct further Beat Surgeries from Brunchies café on the Hallam Fields Estate and will post further information via Neighborhood Link. For further information on Neighbourhood Link please feel free to look at the following link:

http://www.neighbourhoodlink.co.uk/

In regards to an increase on number plate theft, the local team will arrange a local event to offer crime prevention advice in regards to this and also provide anti-theft screw to enable number plates to be better secured, making it harder for thieves when trying to steal them. This will be advertised locally and via social media (FaceBook—Charnwood Police page) and Neighbourhood Link.

Successful club is growing

**We have just held a bike register event on Saturday June 17 at the Watermead Country Park, alongside the Watermead Park Run which was a fantastic day, lots of participants of the run and general visitors of the park alongside local residents attended the event and we managed to get lots of cycles marked up, which will absolutely help in the fight against crime.

LOCAL

TEAM

Birstall

Rugby Football Club isn’t resting on its laurels after an impressive 22/23 season and is looking for new players to join it.

The club reached its highest league position in its history, finishing ninth in Counties 1 Midlands East (North) division, after their recent promotion. The club reached the County Bowl final, losing out to Loughborough RFC, and brought silverware back to their base at the Co-op sports ground on Birstall Road with a victory over Sileby Vikings in the Presidents Cup.

The club hopes to attract new players to strengthen its already established two teams in preparation for the 23/24 season.

“We are always on the lookout for people to join our ‘Greendog’ family. No

matter what experience, there is rugby here for everyone,” said club spokesman Tim Hopcroft.

“Players of all ages and abilities are always welcome to join the Birstall RFC

‘Greendogs’. We are currently running touch rugby sessions on Thursdays at 7pm, and all are welcome,” he added.

Pic: Birstall RFC

Helping our community

WE CONTINUE to support our local community in many ways.

Gifting equipment, dinners and making items for our local hospitals. Our funds raised and donations received all go back into the community, so if we can help, please get in touch.

We would like to say a huge thank you to HATS, that has once again supported #payitforward and given us a cheque for £211.

We were invited by the White Horse team to meet with them and Carl Gunn’s

Raw sewage in street

A HEAVY downpour in June saw raw sewage emerging from cracks in the road on Castlegate Avenue.

Residents were dismayed to see human excrement and toilet paper floating down the road, some of it ending up on private property.

Callers to Severn Trent were told that raw sewage on private property was not their responsibility, but the responsibility of the householder, and that blocked drains were the responsibility of the County Council.

The following day, Severn Trent attended the scene and found that there was a blockage in the sewers on Saltersgate, which they cleared. They also cleaned the sewage from two properties on Castlegate Avenue.

Pics: (top) sewage entered a conservatory on Castlegate Ave; (bottom) dried remains of sewage on Castlegate Ave

re the Duck race. There were comments made on social media and a letter about the gym having never been chosen.

our Community

Charlotte from the White Horse had previously offered the opportunity to Carl, but he didn’t feel he had the support at the time.

The White Horse team explained the preparation that goes into the event on their behalf, and we

were able to explain, as a recipient of the funds from the 2022 duck race, what was expected of us. All ducks had to be counted, missing ducks renumbered, and sponsorship forms needed to frequently be delivered throughout the village and collected. We were required to be “Webster” at the Brownies, Guides, Co-op, and the schools, and sell duck-related items that we sourced and paid for. We promoted the event on social media and posters. A selection of good quality raffle prizes had to be obtained. All local businesses and shops were approached for gifts. The car park at the White Horse was used for stalls, and we had to plan and book the stalls.

We also sold tickets online for the first year, and it was a great success. We were happy to sell online for the recipients this year.

I think many people had the impression that you just turned up and accepted the cheque. A lot of commitment and time is required.

Mr Gunns offered his apologies to the White Horse for a letter written to the Birstall Post. This was accepted and felt it was needed to move forward. Mr Gunns had been invited to attend and see how the duck race works but unfortunately, he had a business meeting on the day. Charlotte Foy said it would be great to see the gym’s supporters run a stall and have an understanding of what’s required to hopefully support Gunns’ gym, which is a great asset to the village. Thanks to funds raised and proceeds of the duck race, we were able to give £500 to Carl for much-needed equipment.

The Community group thanked the White Horse for the opportunity they were given and assured continuing support at future events.

If the group can help in any way, please get in touch.

0789 499 5164

Helping

LE4 Birstall

Club’s women win trophy

BIRSTALL RUNNING club were out in force at the Livingston Relaysa relay race of 400 runners held on May 28 at the Mallory Park racing track in Leicestershire.

The club’s men had four teams of four runners, and the ladies had two teams of three runners. Each runner had to complete a three mile circuit.

Birstall’s Veteran Ladies Team beat off 18 other teams to win the first place trophy.

Kim Blount also won the trophy for the fastest overall Vet female runner in a time of 19 minutes and 13 seconds.

Pic (right): Gemma Steele (left) presenting the trophy and medals to Birstall’s Veteran Ladies Team Kim Blount, Donna Corrigan and Nadine Fields

Police knife search

BIRSTALL AND Wanlip’s Police Beat team conducted a search for knives in a Birstall park.

The knife sweep of the School Lane playing fields was done as part of Operation Sceptre, a nationwide police initiative to tackle knife crime across England and Wales, bringing together all 43 police forces and British Transport Police in a week of intensified action.

Throughout the week of action, forces coordinated activity which targets knife crime from the root cause right through to enforcement.

Commander Stephen Clayman is National Police Chiefs’ Council knife crime lead. He said: “In previous operational roles, I spent a number of years leading homicide investigations and dealing with the harsh consequences of knife crime and the devastation it brings to families, friends and communities.

“Later when working to deliver local policing services I saw first-hand the complexities of tackling knife crime and just how many people inside and outside of policing are committed to reducing harm to our communities.

Sceptre has galvanised activity, dedicating a week to intensified activity twice a year. This doesn’t mean we only look at this twice a year, but Sceptre is an opportunity to really focus on our efforts to tackle knife crime at a number of levels – from engaging with young people in schools to proactive patrols and knife sweeps.

“As ever, partnership working is integral to our approach and this week will also shine a spotlight on the many initiatives where policing joins charities, local organisations and government to bring real change for our communities.

“This is an ongoing mission and one which needs collective ambition, energy and patience.”

No knives or weapons were found during the sweep on the playing field, said PC Stuart Venables. He added: “Engagement with the estates team at Birstall Parish Council confirmed that no knives or weapons have been located within the park in recent times during frequent maintenance of the area.”

GCR war weekend

VISITORS TOOK a step back in time over a weekend in June, as stations along the Great Central Railway held their annual World War Two event in commemoration of life in wartime Britain.

Stations across Leicestershire, including Birstall, Rothley and Loughborough,

Duck race support

hosted activities and entertainment, giving visitors a taste of life in the 1940s.

Hundreds of re-enactors brought the stations and trains to life wearing period clothes, giving twenty-first century visitors the closest experience to time travel they can get. Scenes were staged throughout the weekend invoking the warring forties, including a skirmish (pictured above, and left) between Allied forces and the Germans at Birstall’s Leicester North station.

Bowls’big weekend

BIRSTALL BOWLING Club hosted two events as part of Bowls England’s Bowls’ Big Weekend, a national initiative to encourage new bowlers to try out the sport.

Amongst the many visitors to the club were England Commonwealth Games gold medallist Jamie-Lea Marshall and Bowls England President Deepak Tanna. If you missed out and would like to have a go at bowls, please see the contact details below.

Meanwhile, Kat Bowman, Jan Everitt, Jenni Golding and Di Hurst just missed out in qualifying for the National Championships at Leamington in the ladies county fours competition, losing to Pam Sutton’s Kingscroft four in the semi-final.

In the men’s county fours, John Hurst, Roger Cooper, Andy Wye and Shane Hayes were also one game away from qualifying, they lost to Joe Dawson’s Kingscroft four in their semi-final.

For more information about the club, please contact Steve on 07870 327568 or Diane on 0116 2676245 or visit our website www.birstallbowlingclub.co .uk.

You can also search for our Facebook page.

Pic (above): England bowler Jamie-Lea Marshall

OUR PICTURE shows Paul Clements, (left) and Charlotte Foy from the White Horse presenting a cheque for £5936 to Kev Glover from Birstall United Juniors Football Club. The club were the main beneficiaries of the 2023 White Horse Duck race, held in May.

(left) with visitors to Birstall’s Bowls’ Big Weekend event: (left) Bowls England President Deepak Tanna (left) with event organiser Steve Bacon

advice

CITIZENS ADVICE Charnwood advice on possible benefits available if you have a mental health problem.

Living with mental health can be challenging. It can be even more challenging if you’re unable to work because of it.

No one should have to face their problems alone. We can help you understand what benefits you could apply for to help with living costs like bills and rent.

Universal Credit

You could get Universal Credit if you can’t work because of your mental health. You could also get it if you work fewer hours or are in lower paid work because of your mental health. This will give you a set amount of money each month for living expenses and can help towards housing costs like rent.

If you’re not fit for work, you’ll need to give the Department of Work and Pensions a fit note (sick note) when you apply. You can find more information on this and how to make a claim on the Citizens Advice website, www.citizensadvice.org.uk

Statutory Sick Pay

If you’re struggling at work because of your mental health and are too unwell to work, your employer could pay you Statutory Sick pay for 28 weeks. If you’re on a zero hours contract, you can still get sick pay.

You shouldn’t be made to feel bad about asking for sick pay you’re entitled to. If your employer says no and you’re not happy with their explanation speak to one of our Advisers.

New Style Employment and Support Allowance

This is the main sickness benefit for people who can’t work because of a health problem. It’s paid when Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) ends or if you can’t get SSP. You must have paid enough national insurance contributions and can get it at the same time as other benefits like Personal Independence Payment and Universal Credit. Council Tax reduction

To help with housing costs, Charnwood Borough Council have a council tax reduction and council tax support scheme that can reduce your council tax bill if you’re on a low income. Before applying check on their website, www.charnwood.gov.uk and look for ‘Council Tax, discounts and Exemptions’.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

Sometimes our mental health can make it difficult to do daily tasks like washing, dressing, cooking, eating, seeing people or finding your way outside. If this is happening to you, you might be able to apply for PIP. It isn’t means tested and it won’t be affected by your income or savings. You can also claim alongside other benefits like Universal Credit.

Attendance Allowance

If you or someone you know is pension age or over, and their mental health is making it difficult to do daily living tasks like washing, dressing, eating or keeping safe at home, there are benefits to help you pay for support. Attendance Allowance won’t affect your state pension and you can claim it if you’re still working and earning money.

Pension Credit

This is a weekly benefit to boost your income based on how much money you have coming in and you don’t need a national insurance record.

Continued on back page

Cedars students’musical show

NINETY STUDENTS from the Cedars Academy performed Shrek, The Musical, in front of a packed house at the Palmer Tomkinson Centre.

Parents, students, and the local community gathered to enjoy the talented

performances of the young actors and actresses.

In addition to the evening shows, there was an afternoon performance for our local primary schools.

“It was an excellent opportunity for young children to experience the magic of live theatre and enjoy an afternoon of entertainment,” said a Cedars spokesper-

son.

“Our students have been working tirelessly for months to perfect their performances, dedicating two nights a week after school to rehearsals. They have set the bar high for future productions, and we cannot wait to see what they will accomplish next.”

Feel the heat at the GCR

VISITORS TO the Great Central Railway are being invited to stand on the hotplate, feel the heat of the fire and meet the engine crews.

An extra 10 minutes has been added to the waiting times at Birstall’s Leicester North station, to give passengers a chance to experience the steam and diesel locomotives.

Trains run between Loughborough and Leicester North, and when they reach their destination, the heritage steam or diesel locomotive moves to the other end of the train for the return journey, a process known in railway slang as ‘running round’.

General Manager of the Great Central Railway, Malcolm Holmes, said: “We know so many of our visitors

New bus service

CENTREBUS has started a new 128 service between Leicester, Birstall (Greengate Lane), Sileby & Barrow Upon Soar, providing three trips a day in each direction, per day, Monday to Saturday.

The 128 will depart from Stand SD in St Margaret's Bus Station.

now have no direct memory of steam locos when they ran on Britain’s railways, but are still fascinated by them. By changing our timetable and allowing trains to wait for longer at Leicester North, we want to encourage families to stand on the footplate of a steam engine, feel the heat of the fire and meet our engine crews. It’s part of our drive to make every visit rewarding and full of memories.”

Malcolm said: “We hope to inspire new generations to come and volunteer with us and learn to drive locomotives themselves. Once upon a time, it was said everyone wanted to grow up and be an engine driver, and we want to awaken that passion!”

Pic: a family stand on the hotplate of a loco at the GCR’s Leicester North station

St Margaret’s hot shots

WE HAVE cause for celebration at St Margaret’s Bowls Club.

At the end of last month, during a Saturday afternoon friendly match at Burbage, one of our teams scored maximum points, otherwise known as a Hot Shot. The side was made up of teams of four, with each player delivering two bowls per end. On this occasion, our team delivered all eight of their bowls closer to the jack than any of the opposition's bowls. As you will appreciate, this is quite a rare event, which many players do not achieve in a lifetime of bowling. The team now have a certificate to commemorate the occasion.

From St Margaret’s Co-operative Bowls Club www.smcbc.com

News from the churches

IT IS usually 'Bats in the Belfry', but this time it is 'Bees in the Belfry'.

That is right; in Wanlip church there is a bee problem in the belfry, which has, unfortunately, led to the suspension of bell-ringing practice for the time being.

Bell-ringing training will, however, continue to be held at St James church on Sundays from 3 - 4.30pm, and handbell ringing practice on Thursdays at 7.30pm. We will ring!

There must bee something very special about Wanlip, as you might remember that some time ago, a swarm attached itself to the bench outside Wanlip Hall. Perhaps the Churchwardens might consider making it economically viable with Wanlip Honey? That would bee really good (sorry - have got fixated now!).

St James Monday Group is busy (you get the picture), having enjoyed a super supper and social evening at a member's house, which was held on a lovely, sunny summer's evening (I wish - it was actually on the night of the enormous thunderstorm when the heavens opened!). But it did not dampen the spirits and the enthusiasm of the members, which was very British! Now they can look forward to a day trip to Newark in August, when it will be a market day, with all the fun that goes with markets.

In June, our churchwardens were admitted during the Archdeacon's Visitation Service for our Deanery, held at St

Mary's Church in Melton Mowbray, and with the support and prayers of the congregations of both St James and Our Lady and St Nicholas.

From Birstall Parish Church

The Church: what is it?

‘The Church’ is not bricks and mortar: families move house or a business has new premises, but they are still the same family or business. The Church is formed from every Christian who has ever lived, although our local churches today are made up of Christians from the area. The Bible describes Christians in a church in the same way in which you can talk about people coming together for town meetings, called out from what they are doing and called together to meet to worship God. The Church belongs to God’s ‘New Creation’, which will come to fruition when the Lord Jesus comes again. It is pictured in many ways including as a building and also as the Body of Christ and the Bride of Christ.

In the Old Testament, the Temple in Jerusalem was the visible symbol of the presence of God with His people, but now, in New Testament times, God is present in His people, His Church, by His Holy Spirit. The Lord Jesus said “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” The Apostle Paul wrote to the Church in Ephesus: ‘Now therefore you are … of the household of God, and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and

prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone … in whom you also are built together for a dwelling place of God through the Spirit.’

Our hymn this month is ‘The church’s one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord’ written by Samuel John Stone (1839-1900). Stone was born in Staffordshire, studied at Pembroke College, became a curate in Windsor and, from 1874, served in London parishes until his death. Hymnologist Erik Routley wrote (in 1955): ‘“The church’s one foundation” is one of the dozen greatest hymns in English … The first time you sing it, you realize that it is saying something of importance and saying it with authority; the fiftieth time you sing it you begin to realize what a depth of doctrine and truth there is in it.”’ Stone wrote this hymn in 1866, based on the ninth article of the Apostles’ Creed.

Stone touches on membership of Jesus’ Church: ‘She is His new creation … From heaven He came and sought her to be His holy bride; with His own blood He bought her and for her life He died … Elect from every nation, yet one o’er all the earth …’ He also touches on current troubles but, ‘… soon the night of weeping shall be the morn of song … and the great church victorious shall be the church at rest.’

You are warmly invited to join us for our Sunday services – see the Diary section for details, or contact us: http://www.birstallbaptistchurch.org.uk or 0116 2214883.

From Birstall Independent Baptist Church

Check for drips

SEVERN TRENT is encouraging people to check for water leaks in their homes which could be costing them hundreds of pounds each year.

You might already be familiar with some basic water-saving tips around the house, such as cutting down shower times and not running the tap when brushing their teeth, but unseen leaks could mean that they're spending more than they need on their water bill.

Customers can send a video of a suspected leak with their mobile phone to Severn Trent, where an expert engineer will review the footage and advise the customer whether they can fix it for free, or instead recommend a water-safe plumber.

Aeron Parsons, Water Efficiency Analyst at Severn Trent said: “What people may not realise is that they may be losing a lot of water each year through leaking taps, toilets or showers. While it may not sound like much, a leaking loo could waste up to 400 litres of water each day – that's the same as 700 pints, or five full bathtubs – which could cost them £300 a year if they’re on a meter!”

Once received, Severn Trent’s team of expert engineers will review the video, and if they believe that there’s a leak, will either repair it free of charge or provide details for a qualified WaterSafe plumber in the area.

Aeron continued: “It can be tricky to tell whether your toilet, tap or shower is leaking, but we’ve tried to make it really easy for customers to get an expert opinion from one of our engineers. Just by sending us a short video, we will be able to check whether there's a leak and support the customer in getting the repair made.”

For more information on how to report a suspected leak using the Vyn platform, visit stwater.co.uk and click on Send us a video of your problem or issue on the homepage.

Pic: St Margaret’s bowlers after winning a Hot Shot at Burbage: Christine Harrison, Alex Rajczyk, Mary Linnett & Terry Kerridge

Birstall BAG’s cancer corner

Screening for Lung Cancer

Lung Cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK. With over 48,000 people diagnosed each year, it is also not surprisingly considered one of the most preventable. The UK has recently started to introduce a targeted screening program for lung cancer that Birstall BAGs would like to provide some information about.

What is cancer screening?

Screening means testing people for the early stages of a disease. This is before they have any symptoms. For screening to be useful, the tests: need to be reliable at picking up cancers

overall must do more good than harm to people taking part must be something that people are willing to do

Screening tests are not perfect and have some risks. The screening programme should also be good value for money for the NHS.

It’s important to remember that lung cancer screening will not prevent you from getting cancer. It aims to find the cancer early when you have the best chance of cure.

Screening for Lung Cancer

Lung cancer screening aims to find lung cancer early. This is when there are more treatment options available, and they have the best chance of cure.

In the UK, the National Screening Committee recommends that people at high risk of lung cancer are invited to screening. This is called targeted lung cancer screening

The targeted lung cancer screening programme is new. So it’s likely that it will take some time before

this is available for everyone.

When it’s up and running, everyone aged between 55 and 74 who either smokes or used to smoke will get an invite for an assessment. If this shows that you are at high risk of lung cancer, you will be offered a low-dose CT scan of the lungs.

We don't have all the details on how lung screening will work yet. For example, we don't how often people will be invited. Experts are still deciding on the best way to do the screening across the UK.

In parts of England, some people are invited for a Lung Health Check. This will continue while the screening programme is being introduced. Why has lung cancer screening been recommended?

The UK National Screening Committee is an independent organisation. They look at the research and advise on screening programmes. The committee has recently recommended that a targeted lung cancer screening programme is offered across the UK. Screening for lung cancer has never been offered in the UK before because previously the evidence wasn’t clear.

Targeted Lung Health Checks are a pilot that started in some areas of England in 2019. Experts have now looked at the evi-

dence from this pilot and other studies. They found that screening people at high risk of lung cancer saves lives from the disease, and the benefits outweigh the harms.

It will take some time to roll out the new screening programme across the UK. This is because they need to create more

next.

You might have more tests if the scan shows something abnormal. You might be referred to a specialist if it shows that you may have lung cancer.

If you would like to check your eligibility please discuss it with your GP.

We hope you have found this helpful, and if you would like Birstall BAGs to cover any particular cancer in this column, please do drop us an email: Birstallbags@hotmail.com

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

capacity to do lung assessments and CT scans.

Who has targeted lung cancer screening?

When it’s up and running, everyone at high risk of lung cancer will be invited. It is for people who: are aged between 55 and 74 and either smoke or used to smoke

What happens during lung cancer screening?

First, you have an assessment with a health professional. They ask you some questions to find out more about your lung cancer risk.

If this shows that you are at higher risk of lung cancer, you have a low-dose CT scan to take a detailed picture of your lungs. Getting your results

A specialist doctor, called a radiologist, looks for anything abnormal on the CT scan. You should hear the results within a few weeks. They will also give you information about what happens

THE BIRSTALL POST

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Continued from page 18

The benefits system can sometimes feel complicated and overwhelming, but don’t feel alone. Our Advisers are here to help. You can ring our Local Enquiry line on 01509 649605. We are open on Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 9.30 am – 3.00pm.

Our service is FREE, Independent & Confidential.

Information about all the benefits mentioned and more is available on the Citizens Advice website –www.citizensadvice.org.uk

General information about Citizens Advice Charnwood is on www.charnwoodcab.org.uk

P/23/1027/2: Land North of Birstall Leicestershire Birstall, Access, appearance, landscaping, layout and scale of Road 2 and 3 to the west of Phase 1 residential parcel

P/23/1025/2: Birstall United F.C Meadow Lane Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4EU Erection of telecommunications pole

P/23/1012/2: 22 Castlegate Avenue Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3FB Erection of single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 4.49m, with a maximum height of 3.57m, and height to the eaves of 2.45m

P/23/0982/2: 19 Station Road Birstall

Leicestershire LE4 3BB T1 Spruce - Fell, casting excessive shade upon house and neighbouring property. Proximity to house with exposed sail. T2 Blue AbiesReduce height to leave finished height at approx. 15ft.

P/23/1002/2: 13 Hallam Avenue Birstall

Leicestershire LE4 3DN. Erection of single storey side/rear extension

P/23/0980/2: 10 Sycamore Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4LT Erection of single storey side and rear extension

P/23/0926/2: 13 Fieldgate Crescent Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3JE Erection of first floor side/rear extension, conversion of garage into habitable space and changes to fenestration

P/23/0925/2: 276 Birstall Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4DHErection of part single storey, part two storey extension with balcony at rear, hip to gable end roof conversion at each side of house

P/23/0905/2: 4 Hallam Avenue Birstall Leicestershire LE4 3DNErection of front, side and rear single storey extensions

P/23/0888/2: 115 Roman Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4BF The erection of a single storey rear extension extending beyond the rear wall of the original house by 8.0m, with a maximum height of 3.5m, and height to the eaves of 2.9m.

P/23/0889/2: Broadnook, Land North of Birstall Leicestershire. Reserved Matters application for 154 dwellings and associated infrastructure (P/22/0333/2 relates)

P/23/0913/2: 4 Bramley Road Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4FG. Erection of single storey side and rear extension (Revised scheme ref: P/22/1083/2 refers)

P/23/0879/2: 14 Curzon Avenue Birstall Leicestershire LE4 4AA. Erection of single storey rear extensions, first-floor rear extension and raised deck (Resubmission of Planning Application ref: P/22/0898/2)