200 MOUNTSORREL POST new Restoration of village landmark homes YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
DECEMBER 2013
www.birstallpost.co.uk
PLANS TO build 200 homes off Halstead Road have been approved by Charnwood, subject to the developer providing £1.9million for a new village hall.
A £50,000 restoration of Mountsorrel’s historic Butter Market has been completed. The Grade II listed monument was erected in 1793, designed by William Thomas. The restoration work was carried out by Mountsorrel Parish Council who employed specialists Midland Stonema-
Pic (above): pictured at the restored Butter Market are (l-r) Keith Hamilton, B3 Architects; Cllr Steve Haywood; Tim Deal Estates Manager Lafarge; Derek Park Managing Director of MSM. Inset: stages of the restoration (pics courtesy MSM)
sonry (MSM) and architects B3 Architects. During the restoration it was discovered that the wooden structure holding up the domed roof had a serious infestation of deathwatch beetle which was compromising the safety of the monument. Mature English oak was used to restore the roof structure combining new curved timber members with purpose made stainless steel fitch plates. The lead on the roof has all been replaced. The replacement timber has an expected lifespan of 200 years. Parish Councillor Steve Haywood said: “The Butter Market is an icon of the village – it appears on everything that relates to Mountsorrel. It needed this restoration as it was in a terrible condition, perhaps even in danger of falling down.” Lafarge made a donation towards the restoration work. Tim Deal, Lafarge Estates Manager said: “We are pleased to support the rebuilding of such an iconic structure in the village, a community that we are very active in.” MSM received an award from the National Federation of Builders for the restoration work.
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Jelson’s plans to build on the 15.78 hectare site between Bond Lane and Halstead Road were approved at a Charnwood Planning meeting on September 12. The Council’s decision notice has not yet been issued as the developer and the Council are negotiating the details of the Section 106 agreement – the money the developer must provide to mitigate the impact of the development on the community. Government guidance is that 30% of dwellings in new developments should be affordable homes. Jelson, supported by the District Valuer, say this would mean the Halstead Road development was financially unviable. It has been agreed that Jelson be permitted to provide 5% affordable houses on the site (10 homes) if they provide £1.9million towards a new Mountsorrel Memorial Hall. If this project does not proceed, they must provide 30% affordable houses. The new Memorial Hall has been costed at £3.1million with £1.2million of funding already secured. Subject to final negotiation, Jelson will also be required to provide: • £580,752 towards improving and Continued on page 2
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DEC 2013
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enhancing Mountsorrel’s primary school • £88,702 towards additional accommodation at Alpine House • a contribution towards new lending stock at Mountsorrel library • £569,909 for an on-site open space to include a children’s play area and sports pitch • Six month bus passes, two per new dwelling, at a cost of £325 per pass. To encourage the new residents to travel by bus • Bus Stop improvements including two new shelters Jelson have agreed to construct a 7 metre high bund between the new homes and the quarry. The nearest homes will be 200-250 metres from the quarry. Jelson’s plans can be viewed on the planning section of Charnwood’s Borough Council’s website. The planning reference is P/13/1008/2.
The March issue of the
MOUNTSORREL POST will be published on Mar 14. The copy deadline is Feb 28 .
Young girl dies after being bitten by dog THE MOTHER of a four year old girl has paid tribute to her daughter, who was killed after being attacked by the family’s pet dog. Mum Jodie Hudson said: “Lexi was a bubbly bright little girl. “She fought for her life from the moment she was born as she was born three months prematurely, she’s been taken from us so tragically. “She will be sadly missed, she will be our shining star in the sky and she will never be forgotten.” Police were called to the family home at Rowena Court, Mountsorrel at 12.14pm on Tuesday November 5. Lexi was taken by air ambulance to the Queens Medical Centre in Nottingham where she subsequently died.
The animal was stabbed to death by Lexi’s mum as she struggled to get the dog off her daughter. Detective Superintendent David Sandall is overseeing the investigation into the incident. He said: “The dog is a type of bulldog which is not a breed listed under Section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act. “We are continuing to investigate the circumstances leading to the tragic death of Lexi and this will include the history of the dog. “This is a very tragic incident and
New wool shop opens COUNTY YARNS, Birstall’s new wool shop, has everything for new and seasoned knitters. A family business, run by Sue, Vic, Wendy and Sheila, County Yarns has relocated from Leicester’s indoor market. Sue said: “Our objective is to provide a variety of knitting/crochet yarns and accessories at sensible prices along with good old fashion service too”. She added: “We have brought with
us some of our best selling yarns and also have some new ones coming in for the autumn, from a new lace weight to super chunky. “Anyone who wishes to start knitting or crocheting we will do our best to help you find what you are looking for, we all knit, even Vic, well - in a fashion!” The shop has a selection of knitting yarns from a number of suppliers including Sirdar, Robin, Woolcraft, Stylecraft and James Brett. “If you cannot find what you are
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looking for please ask, we may be able to get it for you” said Sue. “To all our customers who have supported us in the indoor market we will be pleased to see you in our new shop on Wanlip Avenue, and to those who have yet to try us, give us a look, we will be pleased to see you” she added. County Yarns, 2a Wanlip Ave (opposite Co-op Travel) Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9.30am to 4pm Tel: 0792 6630 973
Pic: Lexi Branson and (left) the dog that attacked her
our thoughts are with the family and friends of Lexi at this extremely difficult time.” • 6447 people were admitted to hospital for dog bites in 2011/12, a 5.2% rise on the previous 12 months • of these, 1040 were under 10 years of age • the RSPCA say there are 8.5million dogs in the UK. There are 75 serious dog bite admission to hospital for every 100,000 dogs
Jobs at new store SAINSBURY’S LEICESTER North supermarket on Melton Road has started a recruitment drive. Applicants looking for both full and part-time work in a wide range of positions at the new Sainsbury’s store, currently under construction, can apply for a selection of jobs online at sainsbury.jobs Initially the new store will create around 200 new job opportunities, with more to follow in the New Year when the ‘goods online’ service and pharmacy opens. 140 staff are transferring from the store on Belgrave Road, which will remain open and trade until the replacement store on Melton Road is completed towards the end of the year. Positions will be uploaded to the recruitment website in batches over the next few weeks and applicants will be prompted to register and submit an online application form.
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MOUNTSORREL POST
Parish Council notes A FULL meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on July 8. A minute’s silence was observed for Mr Alfred Gibson, who had recently died. He was a former chairman of the Parish Council and a prominent member of Mountsorrel Castle Cricket Club. It was reported that the activity day on Halstead Road playing field on July 6 had been better attended than in previous years. A full meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on September 9 (there was no meeting in August). It was reported that the six week programme of activities at the Soar Valley Leisure Centre had not been well attended and some activities were cancelled. A full meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on October 14. PC Ian Mundy reported he was moving to another village and that a new Beacon Officer had been appointed for Mountsorrel, PC Leye Price 4505. Speeding cars at the Walton Way/Halstead Road roundabout was reported as a problem. It was reported that with money being promised from a variety of sources including the Halstead Road development Section 106 funds, there was now enough to proceed with a replacement Memorial Hall. New plans are currently being drawn up. It was agreed to award Carol and John Walpole a certificate of commendation for their service to sport in the village. A full meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on November 11. PC Leye Price presented the crime report for October 1-31: 1 assault, 1 burglary dwelling, 1 theft from motor vehicle, 4 theft stores, 1 bilking, 2 damage to motor vehicle, 2 damage to property, 1 drug offence. PCSO Tom Joyce reported the relaunch of Mountsorrel NHW had been successful. He said anyone who would like to get involved can contact him on 101, voicemail number 6442. The Council agreed to send a letter of support for the Mountsorrel Railway Project’s planning application for the Bond Lane halt. It was reported that Charles Church are consulting about building 150 new homes off West Cross Lane.
DEC 2013
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Awards recognise community spirit A MOUNTSORREL couple hosted an awards evening to recognise community spirit in the village. The Ripples Community Awards are the idea of Ian Shonk and Anne Gregory. They were looking for a way of putting something back into their community and set up the award in 2012. They fund it themselves each year. Ian Shonk said: “It’s a simple idea – people nominate anybody who enhances the life of Mountsorrel, it could be a youth leader, a volunteer on a local project or just one of those people without whom Mountsorrel would be a poorer place to live. “We then take them, and their guest, out to dinner and present them with an award to show the community’s appreciation of their efforts.” Winners so far have ranged from Cricket Club volunteers, through Breastfeeding support workers and Scout lead-
Pic: This year’s winners: Susan Forrester, Lydia Rasin, Carol Black, Caroline Bowler, Paul Reeve, Keith Foster and Liz Blackshaw , with Ian & Anne (rear)
ers to someone who picks up the litter in the park every week. Anne Gregory said: “We are so proud to be able to recognise the efforts and drive of the people who make such a difference to the village. When they all get round the dinner table, the conversation is so full of life and enthusiasm –
it’s great to see. New ideas and plans were bouncing around – you could see the ‘ripples’ spreading.” Nominations for next years Ripples Awards will open in the spring next year, with the dinner in October 2014.
Dispute over path to playing field A DEVELOPMENT of residential homes has blocked a Mountsorrel footpath. Marble Homes Leicester are building five homes on land to the rear of 63 Leicester Road, next to Mountsorrel Working Men’s Club. The path, not a designated right of way, led from Leicester Road to the playing field. Mountsorrel Parish Council have begun the process of getting the route officially designated as a footpath by the County Council, after receiving complaints from the public that it had
been blocked. Marble Homes say it objects to a footpath running through their development. In a letter to the Parish Council, Director Jagtar Singh said: “ … any footpath link will represent a serious intrusion in terms of the privacy, living conditions and security of the future occupiers of the site.” The developer has said it is willPic:Marble Homes development ing to provide an alternative route next to the Baptist church, then along proposal. the back of properties on Leicester • A map of the footpath and the Road. suggested alternative route is available The Parish Council’s Planning and on the ‘Current Issues’ section of the Highways committee has rejected this Mountsorrel Parish Council website
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MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2013
Remembrance Sunday parade Quorn station facelift HUNDREDS gathered in Mountsorrel for the annual Remembrance Sunday parade and service to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
QUORN & WOODHOUSE station on the award winning Great Central Railway is set for a facelift.
Organised by the Royal British Legion, the parade from The Green to the church was led by the musicians of the Leicestershire Co-op Snibston Band. Youth organisations, councillors and dignitaries took part in the parade. It was followed by a service at St Peter’s Church.
The railway’s supporting charity has secured a grant of almost fifty thousand pounds from Biffa Award. Repairs will be made to the grade two listed station staircase, an original 1890s Great Central Railway storage shed will be completely rebuilt and for the first time proper paths for people who use wheel chairs will be provided in the station yard. Managing director of the Great Central Railway, Bill Ford said: “We're are delighted with the grant which will enable us to not only make vital repairs but also significantly improve the experience of our visitors. Working with Biffa Award will really help to protect our Victorian heritage. I would like to thank our funding team who have worked so hard to secure the award. The work will complement our recently developed family café and newly installed turntable.” Gillian French, Biffa Award Programme Manager, said: “We are proud to support this project, which will bring to life the story of this rural railway goods yard from the steam era, so that it can be enjoyed by more of the local community as well as visitors from further afield”. Other works at Quorn station will include new signs which will help interpret how a goods yard at a country station worked. Work will begin on the improvements before Christmas.
Christmas Carol Concert Organised by
Mountsorrel Parish Council You are all invited to the Memorial Hall on Tuesday December 10 at 7.30pm
Those taking part include: The Ratby Co-operative Band Local Organisations • Local Clergy Light refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the concert
Benefit cheat jailed A BENEFIT cheat who illegally pocketed more than £21,000 has been given a suspended jail sentence. David Mapplebeck (65) of Sarson Street, Quorn, pleaded guilty at Leicester Magistrates Court on September 20 to two charges of dishonestly failing to notify authorities of a change in circumstances. The court heard how Mapplebeck told Charnwood Borough Council and the Department for Work and Pensions that he was unemployed when in fact he was working between September 2010 and August 2012. During that time he illegally pocketed £19,836 in Pension Credits and £1,666 Council Tax Benefit. Mapplebeck was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to carry out 240 hours unpaid work.
MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2013
Wasting Railway project on BBC radio Police time A 30 minute programme about the Mountsorrel Railway Project was broadcast on Radio 4 in October.
A WOMAN from Sileby has pleaded guilty to wasting police time. On Monday November 4, Maureen Stork (55) of Cossington Road, Sileby appeared at Loughborough Magistrates Court charged with five counts of wasting police time and one count of obstructing a highway. She pleaded guilty to all six offences and received a 36 month conditional discharge. Stork was arrested on Monday September 16, 2013, for causing a public nuisance after she was reported to be walking in the road outside of her house and obstructing vehicles. Police had previously been called to the property on numerous occasions including separate reports that she had cut off her hand and that she had fallen down the stairs, cracking her ribs and puncturing a lung. Both reports turned out to be untrue. It is estimated that Stork has wasted at least 177 hours of police time with false reports, with a cost to the force of at least £4000. PC Miranda Gent of Charnwood Police said: “We are very pleased with this result as it goes to show that wasting police time is a serious matter and that it will be dealt with accordingly. “There have been a number of occasions where the Police have been called to the address unnecessarily which could have resulted in other people in need being put at risk. Hopefully this will make people think twice before calling the police unnecessarily in the future.”
Planning applications P/13/2164/2: Mountsorrel Day Centre, Marsh Road - erection of 124 dwellings following demolition of day centre P/13/2197/2: 39 The Romans – proposed outbuilding P/13/2135/2: 120 Balmoral Road – erection of two storey extension to side of dwelling P/13/2171/2: 109 Church Hill Road – erection of 1st floor extension to rear and single storey extension to front of dwelling P/13/1985/2: 154 Leicester Road – creation of two flats and erection of flue to rear of building P/13/1810/2: 27 Little Lane – erection of extension to side of dwelling P/13/1925/2: Land off Windsor Close – erection of 1 metre high fence P/13/1752/2: 17 Beaumaris Road – extension to garage to provide garden room
The presenter of Radio 4’s Open Country, Helen Mark and producer Perminder Khatkar spent the day with a team of volunteers. Project Leader Steve Cramp said: “They spent the day with our team getting stuck in and hands on with railway restoration as well as talking to some of the volunteers to learn more about what has driven them to become involved with preserving and restoring an important part of our local heritage.” The project’s ecology work and the involvement of young people was also featured in the programme. Pic: Open Country presenter Halen Mark (left) with producer Perminder Khatkar and project leader Steve Cramp
A VOLUNTEER who has helped hundreds of children discover and explore the natural environment has won an award. Caroline Bowler, from the Mountsorrel Railway Project, runs the group’s Wildlife Warriors. The sessions are free to attend and give the children hands-on opportunities around the restored railway line by providing fun ecology activities and games. Sessions have included building bird boxes, hedgehog hibernation houses, insect habitats, butterfly feeders and dry stone walling. Project leader Steve Cramp said: “A great deal of work goes in both at the events themselves and behind the scenes beforehand planning, organising and sourcing materials.”
PILBEAM ACADEMY of DANCE Tel: 07584 166838 Classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern & National for children from age 3 Held at Rothley Village Hall, on Monday & Tuesday evening, & at Rothley Baptist Church, Woodgate, from 4.30pm on Wednesday. Some spaces available in the beginners class at 4.30pm. All classes can lead to stagework, medals and examinations. New Classes start Jan 6 • Pupils 3yrs + welcome
New Bums & Tums class Tuesdays, 7.45pm, Rothley Village Hall Ring for details & to book spaces
Ladies Tap classes for experienced or beginners held on Mondays at 7pm.
JOIN US FOR FUN, EXERCISE OR EXAMINATIONS Principal: Antonia Pilbeam F.D.D.A.
The Mountsorrel Ripples Award were set up by two Mountsorrel residents Ian Shonk and Anne Gregory to honour local people who have given their time to benefiting our community. “We are really pleased that Caroline has been honoured for her work in leading our Wildlife Warriors project b y winning a Mountsorrel Ripples Award. Congratulations Caroline!” said Steve. Pic: Caroline Bowler with her award
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MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2013
Noticeboard all details printed free Mountsorrel
Christmas Lights Switch On Friday 6 December 6pm ‘Lights Switch-on’ - on The Green Refreshments and Christmas Trees afterwards at Christ Church.
Quorn Festive Art & Craft Trail Sunday December 1, 11am – 5pm Over 50 stalls at four venues in village Passport to all venues £2 Children under 16 free Many fine art and craft stalls: paintings, prints, sculpture, photography, jewellery, ceramics, glassware, woodturning, natural soaps, candles handbags, greetings cards, linens, plants & garden gifts, food stalls: preserves, home-made cakes, Christmas puddings and mincemeat and much
YOUR SAY...
The Mountsorrel 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 Mountsorrel Post, Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH, or handed in at Mountsorrel library or email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk
Spirit of Christmas We have iced the cake Got mince pies to bake The tree hung with baubles Coloured streamers to make
more Proceeds to Rainbows Children’s Hospice and The Bridge Village Christmas Lights switched on at 4pm Charnwood Orchestra 40th anniversary
Christmas Tree Festival Christ Church, Mountsorrel Sat Nov 30 – Mon Dec 2 10am to 4pm
Gala Concert
Craft Group
Sat Nov 30, 7.30pm Emmanuel Church, Forest Road, Loughborough Greeting Prelude : Stravinsky Introduction & Rondo Capriccioso : Saint Saens Premier Rhapsody : Debussy Roman Carnival Overture : Berlioz Les Biches : Poulenc The Sorcerer’s Apprentice : Dukas Tickets £15 (con £14), children u16 £3 077181 53117 judithrodgers@gmail.com
Christ Church, Mountsorrel Every Monday, 1.30-3.30pm In the Bower Room Everyone welcome to join this friendly group Come along and bring your craft project
Charnwood Conservative Association
Christmas Fair Saturday December 7 Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley from 10am to 12noon Admission 50p Raffle, tombola, games, produce stalls bric-a-brac etc Rt Hon Stephen Dorrell MP will be attending
Sew, stitch, knit with coffee and chat
Christmas Services Mountsorrel Baptist Church, Leicester Road Dec 15, 4.30pm: Family Christmas Special Dec 22, 5pm: Carol Service Dec 24, 11.30pm: United Churches Reflective Communion Service Dec 25, 10am: Christmas Morning Worship Christ Church, Rothley Road Dec 22, 11am: Morning worship with carols Dec 24, 4pm: Crib Service Dec 25, 10.30am: Holy Communion
Mountsorrel Methodist Church, Church Hill Road Dec 8, 10.30am: Advent Praise Dec 24, 7pm: Carols by Candlelight Dec 25, 10am: Christmas Day
Praise
St Peter’s Church, Loughborough Road Dec 22, 6pm: Festival of Lessons & Carols Dec 25, 10am: Parish Eucharist with Carols Dec 29, 10.30am: United Churches Sung Matins with carols Jan 6, 11am: Epiphany Parish Eucharist
Christmas Events in Loughborough Dec 7 : Christmas Lights Switch On, Market Place 11am – 5pm, lights switched on at 5pm Dec 6 & Dec 13: Christmas Market 10am – 4pm Dec 8: Christmas Pudding Market, 10am - 4.30pm Dec 11: Christmas Farmers’ Market Dec 19: Mayor’s Carol Concert Dec 21 & Dec 24: Christmas Retail Market Dec 22: Carols around Christmas Tree 10am to 4pm Dec 24: Carols in Queens Park Bandstand 1-1.45pm Birstall Village Hall Tuesday December 31, 2013 8pm start - till late Churches Together in Birstall & Wanlip
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MOUNTSORREL POST
Mountsorrel baker wins taste award A DINER was so impressed with the bread she ate at a local restaurant, she rang the Mountsorrel baker who made it to congratulate her. “That call made me feel fantastic” said Anni Reid, founder of Focaccia Per Tutti,the bakery she runs from the kitchen of her home on Heron Close. Anni (61) started the business last autumn after retiring from the NHS where she worked as a nurse and a project manager. She makes gluten free bread because her husband and mother are coeliac and can’t eat normal bread – last year she went to Pru Leith’s cookery school in London to learn more about gluten free baking. Anni had a good reaction to her focaccia
Man jailed A MAN who punched his ex-partner, demanded money and shoved her bank card in her mouth has been jailed for 30 months. Shane Hill (22) of Laurel Close, Mountsorrel, assaulted the victim in her home, while she held one of their children. Hill pleaded guilty at Leicester Crown Court to causing actual bodily harm, burgling the victim’s home and to four breaches of a restraining order banning contact with the victim. The victim and Hill had a five year relationship that ended in July 2011. The have a son and daughter together. Following the assault on November 1, 2012, Hill made off taking the victim’s house keys, bank card and mobile phone. The court heard that the offences were committed out of frustration and disagreements over child access.
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bread, a deli that sampled it wanted to order, and after interest was shown by a few other outlets and eateries, Anni decided to take the plunge, leave the NHS and start her own business. “The high point has been winning a two star award in the Great Taste 2013 competition” said Anni. Thousands of products are entered but only six per cent achieve two stars, which is just one grade below the top three star award. Anni has just installed a second oven in her kitchen which she says has made a huge difference, and spends two solid days a week baking, half a day on delivering and the rest of her time trying to grow the business. “It’s been hard getting restaurants to take my bread seriously” said Anni. “Those that aren’t interested say it is too niche and there won’t be enough demand.” Anni does now supply several outlets, including David North’s in Rothley, Bradleys in Quorn, the Blacksmith’s Arms in Barrow and a deli on Allendale Road. She also sells through her website: www.focacciapertutti.com Focaccia is an Italian flat bread, topped with virgin olive oil, freshly grated lemon and fresh rosemary. Anni has developed various flavours – her Great Taste award winner was roasted tomato and garlic, rosemary with sea salt and olive with coriander. “In 12 months I hope to be in a self contained unit somewhere, baking without interruption and with four times as many orders as I have now” said Anni, who likes to play Italian music while she bakes. “Happy music – as soon as it goes on it gets me in the right frame of mind to bake” she added. More details: focacciapertutti@gmail.com Anni 07777 600 951 Pics: Anni Baker and her award winning bread
DE MONTFORT
DEC 2013
Local plan approved PROPOSALS FOR 1500 homes on the edge of Rothley featured in a plan that was given approval by Charnwood Borough Council on October 28. TO ROTHLEY A6
PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT SITE
NEW WANLIP LINK ROAD A46
HALLAM FIELDS PARK & RIDE Charnwood’s Local Plan Core Strategy was voted upon at a special full council meeting that was webcast live for the first time in Charnwood. The Local Plan has taken eight years to produce and contains plans for growth in the Borough, including 9500 new homes. Charnwood’s plan for ‘North Birstall’ include 1500 new homes, 15 hectares of employment land, health facilities, a new primary school, a supermarket, four pitches for travelling showpeople and a Wanlip link road. A total of 28 councillors voted in favour of submitting the plan, 17 voted against and two councillors abstained. Early next year the Local Plan will be examined by an independent planning inspector. If it is considered sound, Charnwood will vote whether or not to officially adopt the plan in the autumn of 2014.
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MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2013
County Village shop celebrates anniversary seeks tree wardens A HARDWARE store that prides itself on providing friendly service, expert advice and low prices is celebrating its 20th anniversary.
Tree Wardens are appointed by local parish councils to coordinate local tree based environmental projects. Tree Wardens are particularly needed in parishes in North West Leicestershire, Charnwood, Melton and Harborough. “Volunteering as a Tree Warden is a great opportunity for people to make their community a leafier place by looking after local trees” said a spokesman. “The scheme is open to all adults and there is no minimum skill level or time commitment required. Tree Wardens carry out a range of activities, from setting up tree nurseries and growing trees, to surveying and recording trees of local interest and organising awareness events for schools and communities. The role is ideal for people who are passionate about trees and want to learn more and develop new skills.” More information about the Tree Warden scheme can be found on the website www.leics.gov.uk/tree_wardens. To find out how to sign up as a volunteer please contact steppingstones@leics.gov.uk / 0116 305 7221. For more information on volunteering visit www.leics.gov.uk/volunteers_opps.
Pic: Jim & Sharon Cort (front centre) with staff Alan Paget, Mark Johnson & Tim Neath
ness. It is such a pleasure to run a village shop and to feel like a part of the community. I can honestly say that I have the best job in the world serving the community that I grew up in having worked in
my parents’ newsagents in the village since I was 14, and still continuing to see many people from that time. We plan to carry on improving the shop and hope to still be trading in another 20 years!” PHOTO: CLIVE RASIN
LEICESTERSHIRE COUNTY Council’s Stepping Stones project is looking to recruit more Tree Wardens to parishes across the county.
Corts in Rothley is owned and run by Jim and Sharon Cort with help from manager Mark Johnson and sales assistants Alan Paget and Tim Neath. The shop, on Cross Green, is open seven days a week and has grown considerably over the last 20 years. Jim said: “When we started in 1993 we had less than 2000 products, which has now increased to well over 10,000. We have grown the business mainly by listening to what customers want. If for any reason we have not got an item, we can normally always order it. We pride ourselves on customers coming into the shop and saying “I knew you would have it” and people see it as a challenge to try and ask for something they don’t think we will stock, but they are normally always beaten!” As well as a traditional hardware shop that stocks most things for the home and garden, Corts also offer a service for dry cleaning, laundry, clothing alterations, shoe repairs and sharpening. Jim said: “We pride ourselves on our large loyal customer base. We have many of the same customers today that shopped with us 20 years ago and the children that came in with their parents then, now shop with us for their own homes, which makes us feel very old! “We are always moving with the times and are having our website redesigned. Where we win over a the large DIY superstores is that as well as being cheaper on over 90% of products, with our excellent product knowledge we make sure that the customer gets the right product for the right job.” Sharon said: “We both feel very lucky to enjoy all aspects of running the busi-
Treats from Budgens GENEROUS SHOPPERS at Mountsorrel’s Budgens supermarket helped provide a selection of tasty treats for elderly people in the village. Customers of Farmer Fear’s Budgens on Granite Way in Mountsorrel were asked to donate an extra £1 with their shopping as part of a Harvest Festival campaign to raise awareness of Age UK’s work, which aims to improve the lives of the older members of our community. At the start of the campaign, Vanessa Gregory, Community Relationships Co-ordinator at Budgens, visited the Mountsorrel group and asked them for a list of the type of goodies that they would like to receive as part of their gift. “Many ideas were given, but on the whole it was the little tasty treats that were especially requested, such as delicious cakes, biscuits & sweets!” said Vanessa “I had no idea what everyone would like in their gift box, but I felt it was more important to provide goodies that the clients had chosen together than to assume what they would want at Harvest time”. Pam Cooper, who runs the two Age
UK Leicester Shire & Rutland groups, was instrumental in bringing the whole idea together, helping Vanessa to coordinate the meetings and the handover of the gifts. “It was a pleasure to be involved with this generous Harvest campaign. Budgens and their customers have been extremely generous with their donations. The smiles on the faces of our clients said it all” said Pam. All in all customers donated a total of £107 which was converted into the grocery gifts to the same value and them shared out with a little something going to each member of the Mountsorrel Age UK groups. Vanessa said: “The whole team at Budgens, Mountsorrel would like to thank all those customers who donated. We are always astounded by the generosity of our customers, they never fail to surprise us. Pic: Vanessa Gregory from Budgens (third from left) and Age UK volunteer Lucy Smith (fourth left) help distribute the treats at the Parish rooms
MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2013
9
New Open days showcase café’s work police website launched OPEN DAYS at the Sorrel Youth Café in October gave visitors an insight into the work the café does and the impact it is having on the village.
LEICESTERSHIRE POLICE is supporting a new website that aims to quickly answer non-emergency questions and free up staff to concentrate on urgent and more complicated calls. The ‘Ask The Police’ website, which is also available as an app for smart phones, holds answers to around 750 questions, on the subject of things such as stray dogs and noisy neighbours, that the police are most frequently asked by the public through 101 or 999. The website is part of a national initiative that will assist the public to find solutions to everyday problems that can affect the quality of their lives.
The service is an easy-to-navigate wesite www.askthe.police.uk which is bespoke to Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland and offers a range of answers and useful contacts.. Leicestershire’s contact management department currently handles on average 1,957 calls a day, of which 1,644 are non-emergency. It is believed that this number will be substantially reduced, which will free up valuable resources to be re-allocated to frontline policing. Assistant Chief Constable Phil Kay said: “This is the latest in a range of additional services we are introducing into our area. We anticipate that, as the public become aware of it, this new website will prove to be a much appreciated and well used resource. “The range of questions is very comprehensive, covering a wide range of subjects that include pets, noisy neighbours, road traffic, harassment and public order. New questions are continually added and we are encouraging the public to submit any questions they may have to the editors of the website who will consider them for inclusion nationally.” Visitors to the website will be able to give their rating of the information and find rankings of the popularity of the questions asked. The new service will have a direct link to the Leicestershire Police website.
Over two events members of the new Youth Management Board joined the Youth Officer volunteers and Trustees in welcoming local residents, Borough and County Councillors, representatives of its founders and working partners. The events attracted approximately 70 people, including Loughborough MP Nicky Morgan. She said: “The Sorrel Youth Café does a huge amount for young people and the wider community in Mountsorrel. Their work is clearly having a positive effect on antisocial behaviour levels locally and I am particularly impressed by the confidence building they do and their support for young carers. I am encouraged to hear about all their plans for future work.” As part of both events visitors could have a hot drink and a piece of homemade cake whilst looking around the various displays and talking to Café volunteers and users. The exhibition demonstrated the progress of the Café since its early beginnings in 2010. It also highlighted the work it is currently doing and its future plans for specialist youth work, opening the café to residents on a Thursday morning and ideas for developing its catering services with young people. Graham Lloyd, the Café’s Youth Officer said:“We have a lot of great things to shout about and I am very proud of the excellent work we are doing. The Café has been on an incredible journey and is now very much part of the Mountsorrel community. These events are excellent for feeding back our achievements
Pic: Nicky Morgan MP (centre) with the Youth Officer Graham Lloyd and Leslie Strange, a Café Trustee
and we are really pleased with the numbers of people who came along. Thank you to all the young people and volunteers that made it happen.” One of the other aims of the events was to highlight the Café’s need for continuing support, both financial and practical. “As a charity the Café can always use direct funding and other forms of financial support. For example it is looking for sponsorship to acquire new carpets, a new freezer and help to redecorate. On a more practical note it also needs more volunteers who can spare some time for things like fundraising, helping to manage the project and staffing the cafe during the afternoon session. In particular it is looking for a suitably experienced person to take on the important role of Treasurer” said Graham. If you are interested in finding out more about the Café, volunteering or can offer your help in any way than you can contact Graham on 0116 2375289 or via email glloyd@sycafe.org
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Friday funding found AN OFFICER from Charnwood has secured police funding for Mountsorrel’s youth café. The Sorrell Youth Café has not been able to open on a Friday for at least a year, however after managing to obtain funding they are now able to open again with a new initiative called ‘Catch Up Friday’. PC Andy Munn was responsible for helping the Youth Café with their bid, he said: “I was happy to be involved in securing funding for such a worthwhile cause. Hopefully the new initiative will really benefit the young people of Mountsorrel.” Graham Lloyd, Youth Officer at the Sorrell Youth Café said: “Catch Up Fridays will not be like any of the Cafes evening sessions we have run in the past. We are looking to invite young people who are interested in working with us to develop an exciting programme of Music, Film and Media projects and sessions focusing on Food and Fitness. The new sessions will provide space for those who have a real interest in these topics to help create something new for the village. “We are very grateful to PC Munn for all his help in securing us the bid.”
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MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2013
Crafting experience A SOCIAL enterprise that provides crafting experiences for adults with disabilities is continuing to grow. Started this year by Mountsorrel’s Victoria Robinson, Smarti Paints organises sessions for over 70 people across the county, including a weekly session at Mountsorrel library. Victoria said: “We aim to give people access to experiences they have not had the opportunity to try before.
Pics: crafters at work
“We create a fun and inclusive environment for our crafters regardless of their disability. Research shows the benefits of creative and stimulating activities such as crafts are beyond question.” Activities include paper
Fall in crime
RECORDED CRIME in the area has fallen by 30 per cent over the last 12 months, according to Police figures released at the September meeting of the Area Forum. The figures, for Bradgate, Rothley, Mountsorrel and Birstall also show a reduction in reports of antisocial behaviour of 51 per cent over the same period. Presenting the figures, PCSO Tom Joyce praised the work of the Sorrel Youth Cafe, saying that its success had contributed to the reduction in antisocial behaviour.
craft, glass painting, ceramic design, sewing crafts and woodwork. Smarti Paints has been nominated for the 2013 Pride of Loughborough Awards. More details at www.smartipaints.co.uk or email victoria@smartipaints.co.uk
Pic: Liz and Matthew in their vineyard with ‘The Academic Feet’ and the East Midlands Fine Foods Trophy
Rothley vineyard is an award winner A ROTHLEY vineyard has won an award for its wine.
MOUNTSORREL UNITED CHARITIES Relief in Need Fund
Do you need financial help? Have you lived in Mountsorrel for 6+ months? The Mountsorrel Relief in Need Fund could help by giving you a grant towards items for your home, your health, your garden or other needs. Please phone to make an appointment. You will need to give some financial details but these are kept confidential. 07534 604 337
www.mountsorrelunitedcharities.co.uk Registered charity number 217615
The Kingfisher’s Pool vineyard is in the back garden of a Westfield Lane couple – Liz and Matthew Robson. The pair, who have been producing wine for the last five years, won a silver medal and the East Midlands Fine Food trophy for the best wine in the East Midlands region. The medium dry white wine is made from Siegerrebe and Solaris grapes and is called ‘Academic Feet 2012’, because their colleagues from Leicester University help them trample the grapes in the traditional way. Liz said: “Last year this wine won a bronze medal in the dry wine category, but the judging comments suggested it was in the wrong class, so we entered the 2012 vintage for the medium class and were overjoyed at the improved result.” Their first attempt at making rosé resulted in a highly commended certificate, which Liz and Matthew are really pleased about and has made them determined to try this again.
The Orion grapes were sent to Halfpenny Green vineyard in Shropshire to be made into sparkling wine which will be ready in August 2014. Liz also won the Mercian Vineyard ‘Small Producer of the Year’ jointly with Richard Rallings from Morville Vineyard in Shropshire. She said: “The 2012 summer had literally been a washout with incessant rain resulting in a meagre harvest, so we have very few bottles from our own wine making and are therefore delighted with the successes. “The warm summer weather of 2013 is ripening the grapes for this year’s October harvest nicely and a good crop is anticipated. Unfortunately weed killer drift from a neighbour has affected three rows of vines and there is an agonising wait for toxicology tests to see if the grapes can be used. “Starting a vineyard is not as easy as most people think. It is constantly a case of three steps forward two steps backwards, but at least we will have some nice wine to sustain us!”
MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2013
11
Front garden winners Dog fouling blitz THE WINNERS of the Best Kept Front Gardens competition 2013 have been announced.
A BLITZ on dog fouling is being targeted on Mountsorrel’s Memorial Park playing fields. It is one of nine hotspot areas identified by Charnwood Borough Council after it consulted with parish councils in the borough. Officers from Charnwood will increase patrols, post awareness leaflets and seek to prosecute offenders where possible. The council has also produced a tongue-in-cheek ‘public information’ film to help people deal with dog fouling as well as a campaign Facebook page. Alan Twells, Charnwood Borough Council’s Head of Regulatory Services, said: “Dog fouling is one of the biggest sources of environmental complaint we receive and the Don’t Muck Around campaign is our commitment to residents that we will take action by educating, raising awareness and taking action against offenders.. “It is frustrating for our communities that there are still people who do not realise that wrapped dog waste can be placed in any Licensed Boarding Cattery public highway litter bin – in garden setting not just designated dog waste bins. There is no Indoor sleeping area with excuse for it and our analycovered outdoor run sis shows that the people Inspections Welcome most likely to commit offences are aged between 21 Contact Lesley: 01509 412119 53 Hawcliffe Rd, Mountsorrel and 40 – they’re old enough to know better.” Charnwood Borough Council receives nearly 200 reports of dog fouling each year and earlier this year Funeral Services prosecuted two people in court for dog fouling-relatCall us 24 hours a day ed offences. The areas being monitored are:
Organised by Mountsorrel Parish Council, the winners were presented with certificates at the Council’s meeting in September. Hanging Baskets & Window Boxes: 1st Mrs L B Beck, 1 Blue Granite Caravan Park 2nd Mr D Turner & Ms M Amir, 126 Rothley Road 3rd Mr R Pearce & Ms C Woodrup, 119, Leicester Road Small Gardens: 1st Mrs Lanning, 11 Blue Granite Caravan Park 2nd Mrs K Kissane-Rogers, 1 Glenfrith Gardens 3rd Mr & Mrs White, 74 Rockhill Drive Large Gardens: 1st Mr & Mrs Heemskerk, 29 Kingfisher Road 2nd Mr & Mrs Spiers, 23 Kenilworth Close Joint 3rd Mr & Mrs Cooke, 25 Kenilworth Close Joint 3rd Mr & Mrs Monk, 1 Bradgate Close Business Premises: 1st The Mountsorrel Guest House, 217 Loughborough Road 2nd Rose Cottage Rest Home, 136 Rothley Road
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Ashby Road Estate: Gracedieu Way, Sharpley Road, Hermitage Way, Shortcliffe Park Rothley: Fowke Street Playing Fields Barkby: Brookside Queniborough: Rearsby Road Playing Fields East Goscote: Weavers Wynd and Jubilee Playing Fields Woodhouse: Brook Road, Beaumanor Road and School Lane Mountsorrel: Memorial Park Sileby: Greedon Rise Playing area Birstall: School Lane Playing Fields
Pics: some of the winning gardens
To report offences in Charnwood call in confidence on 01509 634564 or email cleaner.greener@charnwood .gov.uk
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MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2013
Waste New website for landlords & tenants site hours
Small Ads Small ads are 25p for the first 16 words. 17-32 words: 50p. Enclosing payment, post your ad to us or hand it in (inside an envelope) at Mountsorrel library.
A NEW website for tenants and landlords has been launched by local councils. www.homefinder.uk.com has been set up by the Leicestershire district councils and Leicester City Council for landlords and letting agents in the county, offering support and advice and providing a
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THE OPENING hours of the recycling and household waste site at Mountsorrel are changing. range of services all under one roof. Landlords and letting agents can advertise their properties for free and at the same time keep up-to-date with current legislation, have access to documents, videos and toolkits to help manage properties, information on available grants and loans and free training opportunities. There are already over 70 letting agents signed up and 500 properties on the website, from shared houses to executive homes. It can be viewed in multiple languages and features include a housing benefit calculator and an online referral form for customers seeking support to remain in their current home or move to an alternative one. David Harris, Charnwood’s Head of Strategic and Private Sector Housing said: “This website will help tenants have confidence that the property they rent is of a good standard, is being responsibly managed and more importantly that the landlord belongs to a recognised landlord accreditation scheme.” Landlords or letting agents looking to advertise their properties on the website can register at www.homefinder.uk.com/acccommodati on
The County Council introduced reduced winter opening hours from November 2. The site will now be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. From April 1, 2014 to September 30 it will be open seven days a week. The winter opening hours are now 9am – 4pm and in summer, 9am – 7pm. The hours of the county waste sites have been reduced as a cost cutting measure by the County Council. It has to reduce spending by £110million in five years. For more details: www.leics.gov.uk.waste
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Contact us THE MOUNTSORREL Post is delighted to receive contributions from residents. You can send us: Details of a community event such as a rummage sale, fete or coffee morning for free publication on our ‘Noticeboard’ page. Items of news - we’re interested in everything: club and society news, prizewinners, charity events, church news, complaints, praise, new projects, new facilities, trips, sport, crime, anything that concerns or interests you. A letter for our letters page - we welcome letters on any issue, local or national. All letters must include the sender’s name and address (though not necessarily for publication). Photos - we particularly welcome old photographs giving an insight into local history. Small ads - you can sell items with a classified ad for only 25p! How you can contact us: Phone or Fax (0116) 267 4213 Hand in your items at Mountsorrel Library, Rothley Library or Birstall Library Write to us at The Mountsorrel Post, Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH Email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk The Mountsorrel Post is an independent newspaper The March issue of the
MOUNTSORREL POST will be published on Mar 14. The copy deadline is Feb 28.
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