MOUNTSORREL POST YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
SEPTEMBER 2015
www.birstallpost.co.uk
No. 52
Railway to open in October AFTER EIGHT years of hard work and over 80,000 hours of volunteer time, the official opening date of the Mountsorrel railway and the new station on Bond Lane has been announced. The volunteer run Mountsorrel Railway Project (MRP) will be welcoming visitors on the weekend of October 24/25 to ride for the first time on public passenger trains. The Great Central Railway will be operating the trains and using the weekend to assess the level of public interest in the line, which is expected to start operating regularly in 2016. Steve Cramp from the MRP said: “To think back eight years ago to the enormity of the challenge that lay ahead of us, it really does make you realise just how remarkable it is to have achieved what we have. This really was a major restoration which for the most part has been tackled by hand without machinery in the same way that it would have been done in Victorian times. “Over the
Pic: (top) volunteers working on the line & (inset) Onefamily customer Tony Johnson & volunteer Malcolm Law with plans at the MRP
past eight years some 300 volunteers mainly from Mountsorrel and the surrounding villages have got involved with the physical work and it just goes to show what is possible when the community works together. The outstanding memory for me personally is how wonderful it has been to see so many people from different backgrounds, abilities and age ranges working side by side together.
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“Of course, this isn’t the end of the line, we still have much work to do to complete the community heritage centre, which is being built on Swithland Lane. We need volunteer help with that so please get in touch if you would like to get involved.” The official opening will take place at 11.30am on Saturday October 24 by Lord Faulkner, President of the Heritage Railway Association, at Bond Lane, Mountsorrel. Four trains are scheduled for the 24th and six on the 25th, from Mountsorrel to Swithland sidings where it will halt and return. Tickets can be booked from the Continued on page 2
New Mayor MOUNTSORREL COUNCILLOR John Capleton has been appointed Mayor of Charnwood.
He will be supported by Meg Jenkinson as his Mayoress. Cllr Capleton’s chosen charities for the year are Twenty Twenty and the Sorrel Youth Care. The new deputy Mayor is Birstall councillor David Gaskell. Pic: Mayor John Capleton
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MOUNTSORREL POST
SEP 2015
Continued from page 1 GCR, 01509 632323 or www.gcrailway.co.uk. The MRP have recently received a £5000 funding boost from the OneFamily Foundation to recreate three of the 100 stonemason huts that once stood at the nearby Mountsorrel quarry. They will be located on the site of the new MRP Heritage Centre being built on Swithland Lane. Historically each hut had a stonemason that would work the stone to create road kerbs, cobbles, gravestones and
other granite products. Once the attraction is completed, demonstrations will illustrate how this work was done, providing an educational resource which recreates and explains the region’s geology and history. Enhancing the whole visitor experience, the stonemason huts will further highlight the importance of the quarry to Mountsorrel’s economic development.
Pics: (top) the drawing shows the Heritage Centre (top of pic) & the stonemasons’ hut; (above) stonemasons standing outside a hut and (left) the Heritage Centre under construction
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A FULL meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on April 13. It was reported that 21 parishioners had attended the annual parish meeting on March 19. The clerk reported that Lafarge had been contacted to see if they would provide defibrillators for the village but to date no response had been received. Cllr Stan Coats reported that the outline business plan for Mountsorrel Community library had been forwarded to the County Council. Cllr Mick Lemon reported that Mountsorrel and Braunstone were being treated as special cases and will be discussed again by the County Council in June, for a decision on the way forward in September. It was agreed to award £5000 of the grant promised to Sorrel Youth Café, and to ask the café for copies of its accounts up to March 31, 2015. This was the last meeting to be attended by Cllr Stan Coats, as he is resigning, and he was thanked for all his work for the council by Chairman Brian Allard. Mountsorrel Parish Council held its Annual Meeting on May 18. Cllr Brian Allard was elected Chairman for the ensuing year and Cllr Paul Harris, Vice Chairman. A full meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on May 18. A member of the public spoke about the allotments and a petition the allotment holders had signed concerning a proposed move to another location. Chairman Brian Allard advised that the matter would be discussed by the Recreation and Amenities committee and their comments would be taken into consideration. Mr T Duffin, Mr D Shardlow and Mr G Pirt were all co-opted onto the parish council, to fill vacancies. It was reported that Lafarge would
look into providing defibrillators for the village, and that Charnwood surgery are willing to have one installed on the outside of their building, and to provide the electricity for it. It was reported that the business plan for Mountsorrel library is likely to be turned down, but that further discussion will take place and a decision will be made around October. The library will remain open until that time. It was agreed to ask for a meeting with Charnwood Borough Council to discuss why £78,318 of section 106 money associated with the Black Hawk development had been allocated to education, and not to other projects in the village which the Parish Council had identified. A full meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on June 8,. Sgt Ludlam reported there had been a significant decrease in crime in Mountsorrel in the last month. It was agreed that the clerk ascertain the owner of the bridge near to the Waterside public house, and to contact them as the bridge is in need of repair. It was reported that Lafarge had agreed to donate £3000 towards two defibrillators for the village. One will be located at Charnwood Surgery. The location of the second has yet to be determined. It was agreed to set up a working party to meet when necessary to discuss the Memorial Hall, the library, the new Halstead Road sports development and Charnwood Central Park, and to report back to full council. The December issue of the
MOUNTSORREL POST will be published on Dec 5. The copy deadline is Nov 20.
MOUNTSORREL POST
WEA courses THE FOLLOWING courses are offered by the Workers’ Educational Association, Birstall & Rothley Branch. Exploring & Interpreting Layers & Textures In Art Textures and layers can provide endless inspiration and imaginative imagery to explore. Sometimes as backgrounds, surface or the artwork itself. This can often influence a viewer’s response to a work. In any work of art, texture can very often draw us in so we spend more time with the work. Using a range of materials and techniques, including printmaking. You will explore surface implication and illusions referring to a variety of 2-D techniques. Developing your knowledge, skills and own creative styles in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. No prior knowledge required, all abilities welcome. Tutor: Anna Michalska-Tomajer. Fee £84.70 or Free if you are in receipt of an income related benefit. Venue: The Rothley Centre, 12 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR Date: Monday 1–3pm, 11 meetings from 21st September 2015 NOTE: Early postal enrolment essential to ensure a place. “Well Turned Out”: Fashionable Dress For Men & Women 1600-1914 From padded hose to spats, and hoops to crinolines-that pervasive dictator, fashion, has run the gamut from great elegance to the really ridiculous. A range of sources for both men’s and women’s clothing from 1600-1914 will be illustrated and discussed. Tutor: Judith Hodgkinson Fee £52.00 or Free if you are in receipt of an income related benefit. Venue: The Rothley Centre, 12 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR Date: Tuesday 10–11.30am, 9 meetings from 22nd September 2015 Art For Changing Times Explore some of the varied responses to the rapid changes of the 20th century as expressed in the work of a range of artists beginning with The Sydney Moderns of Australia and their paintings of the inter-war period. No experience necessary-just a lively open-minded interest in art! Tutor Janis Baker Fee £53.90 or Free if you are in receipt of an income related benefit. Venue: The Rothley Centre, 12 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR Date: Wednesday 7.15–9.15pm, 7 meetings from 30th September 2015 Contact: Marion Vincent 0116 2375156 or send your enrolments to Brenda Sutherland, WEA Treasurer, 4 North Street, Rothley, Leicester LE7 7NN Please make cheques payable to WEA Birstall & Rothley Branch. Enrol on line for all courses at https://enrolonlinewea.org.uk/online Visit our website! www.birstallandrothleywea.org.uk
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Youth café planning for the future THE SORREL Youth Café has now been open for five years and is looking at new ways it can develop what it offers to the young people of the village. Two new volunteer workers have been carrying out a survey, asking residents for their thoughts about local services and future needs. Tomek Glinski and Violet Kapiton have also been talking to young people. Café Youth Officer Graham Lloyd said: “Tom and Violet will be using the information from both surveys to produce a community report. They have already identified lots of new ideas for projects and trips.” Tom from Poland, and Violet, from the Ukraine, are from the European Volunteer Service. Violet said: “I have lots of ideas that have worked back in the Ukraine and it would be great to try them out here. I am looking forward to working with young people and hearing about their views of the world.”
One of the ideas that is gaining real interest is a coast to coast cycle adventure. The details have yet to be finalised, but it will both help raise funds for the café and be a great experience. Graham said: “We are looking to find a group of young people who are interested in working with us on this exciting project. We have started to meet on a Tuesday evening to plan the trip. Anyone who is interested in cycling and is over 14 should come along. Violet and Tom will be organising the trip. It’s great to have them on board.” John Doyle, Chair of the Youth Café trustees, said: “Underpinning our core youth work is the weekday community café ‘My Café’, which celebrated its anniversary on August 10. Whilst many will have sampled the excellent wares and service provided by Jo and her volun-
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Pic: volunteer workers Violet Kapiton and Tomek Glinski & (inset) the Sorrel Youth Café
teers they may not have registered the wider work that’s going on.” • the community café has to date provided 1200 hours of community access and service • it has provided key catering support to the Fun & Families Thursday afternoon session • 14 young people have received Food Hygiene training • 5 adults with learning disabilities have gained work & social experience • a dedicated group of volunteers have been recruited to support the community café operation • it has supported the development of Jake’s Shakes run by a 15 year old young user and provides an out of school education platform • it provides access and support to seven separate daytime groups including a craft group and the Friday morning Sing and Story for preschool children
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• it acts as a bridging point between young people and adults John said: “We are all really pleased to have been chosen as one of the Mayor of Charnwood, Cllr John Capleton’s two charities for his year of office and welcomed both the Mayor and his Consort at the Café on July 9 to launch his charity year. “Our fundraising efforts continue and we are now selling tickets for our Summer Draw, which is drawn in late autumn to coincide with national Youth Work week. The star prize at present is a Big Blast Experience donated by LaFarge Tarmac. Tickets can be obtained in the SyCafe”. If you are interested in finding out more about the Café, the Coast to Coast cycle adventure or the consultation process please give Graham a call on 07775 616001 or email glloyd@sycafe.org The café is also looking for secure storage for its bike project. Contact Graham if you can help.
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MOUNTSORREL POST
SEP 2015
Mountsorrel Revival celebration a big hit THERE WAS a real sense of community spirit as hundreds of people came together to enjoy the amazing day that was the Mountsorrel Revival. wood visited in official regalia to judge Sunday August 9 proved to be warm the Dog Show. and sunny and a large crowd gathered Visitors, many of whom were dressed to watch the colourful spectacle of a in vintage costume for the day, had the street parade that started at The Green chance to take a river trip or try archery and made its way to Stonehurst Farm. on the festival field. Led by an American police car, the The soapbox racing on the cricket parade featured tribal drummers, hot club car park entertained the crowds rods, classic cars, a church wedding, with the variety of teams and costumes – burlesque dancers, Civil War soldiers, and the spectacular crash when the local artisans and traders and the soap Swiss racer lost both front wheels simulbox racers. “The buzz in the village was fantastic” taneously as it crossed the finish line! said principal organiser Ian Shonk. “The Trophies were awarded to Big boys Toys (fastest time), Honda (Best engineerhighlight for me was the street parade. ing) and Kia (Spirit of the event). I’ve not organised one before so it The Sorrel Youth Café was stressful but so worth it on played its part by opening the day” he added. its door and serving freshOver 60 stalls filled every ly made ploughman available forecourt and green lunches, teas, coffees space, all hand picked to and refreshments. Young give a mix of traders and people from the Café’s food outlets. Many of them catering project Come sold out completely before Dine with Us, staffed the day finished at 5pm. their own stalls serving Local band ‘Lockdown’ hot pork rolls, vegetarian rocked the street, using the rolls and specialist milkButtermarket as a stage. Elseshakes. Specialist ice creams where musicians and tribal Organiser Ian Shonk were also available. drummers had the crowds swinging Youth Officer Graham Lloyd said: to the beat. Dancing ranged from bur“The Café team have worked so hard lesque performances by Chicas Locas to this year so we are pleased that the swing and ballroom in the Memorial weather was kind and that the communiHall. The Fun Run started from the Leity came out to celebrate. Looking up at sure Centre and the Mayor of Charnthe crowds gathered on the Green for the start of the parade make it all worthwhile. There was a great sense of community spirit. All the funding raised on the day will be reinvested into youth work for the village and to keep developing the Café. Graham added: “A big thanks has to go to Ian Shonk for his inspiration and hard work. Despite a few setbacks, Ian pulled the whole thing together and it was great on the day. To support him next year we are looking to establish a small working group so we would love to hear from anyone interested. Comments on facebook included: “We had such a fab day, thank you!” Rebecca Handley; “It was a fantastic success. Thank you
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Pic: the dog show on The Green Pic: Christine Jarvis served tea and cake
so much Ian and your team for all your hard work” Sue Roberts; “It was great to see so many people happy and enjoying the day without any problems, well done Ian and team, thank you” Gaz Henson. Ian said: “We are so grateful to Stonehurst Farm and the Waterside Inn for loaning us their land free for the day, the space meant we could invite many more attractions and visitors into Mountsorrel to join in the fun. The team of volunteers worked tirelessly – starting at 6.30 in the morning to prepare the village for the Revival – some of them were still clearing up at 10pm and still smiling!” Ian says the event will return next year.
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MOUNTSORREL POST
More pics over
SEP 2015
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MOUNTSORREL POST
SEP 2015
Pic: Nicole Hughes (right) & Pierce Blair
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MOUNTSORREL POST
SEP 2015
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Local bird club BIRSTALL BIRDWATCHING Club meet monthly at the Rothley Centre on Mountsorrel Lane. The club was formed in 1978 when 12 people attended with the annual membership fee set at £1. The club’s aim was to encourage people to enjoy wildlife, with birds being the main focus at a local venue and affordable cost. Illustrated talks during the winter months and outdoor visits in the spring and summer make up the programme. The club’s winter programme starts on October 13 looking at Cossington Meadows and how the land was changed from quarry workings to nature reserve. Details of this and the November meeting are on the Notice Board page. The club charges £8 membership which includes entry to talks and walks. Visitors are welcome £2 and children free. Free on-site parking. Further details from Marion Vincent 0116 2375156
Can we help with:
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Pic: Mayor John Capleton selects his winner in the dog show
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MOUNTSORREL POST
SEP 2015
YOUR SAY... Noticeboard all details printed free Charnwood Orchestra
Annual Concert Sat Sep 26, 7.30pm Holy Trinity Church, Barrow Upon Soar Wagner : Siegfried Idyll Mozart : Violin Concerto 5 Arvo Pärt : Fratres Haydn : Symphony 100, The Military
One Voice for Care 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, Unit 109, Greenacres, The Sidings, Leicester LE4 3BR, or handed in at Mountsorrel library or email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk
Steam Fair I’ll not forget the old steam fair With traction engines everywhere The flywheels madly spinning round; The throbbing beat felt through the ground The tall brass funnels belching smoke That wrapped around us like a cloak, The slip, slap, slap of leather drives The young girls screaming for their lives The blaring music from the rides, The barkers’ calls and kids on slides, The crowds too dense to move about And all our talking done in shout The eardrum - splitting noise and yells No-one counted decibels! Cinders dumped in muddy ruts; Tatty prizes, coconuts: Wooden swingboats, stalls and shows, Shooting duckes in moving rows, Roll-a-penny, pitch and toss,
De Montfort Hall Saturday October 10 at 7.30pm Military Wives Choir & Fron Welsh Male Voice Choir Also appearing: Edgars Cuzinskis with the Leicester City Male Voice Choir and
Toffee apples, candy floss Then we ventured back next day. The whole shebang had cleared away, No trace or remnant could we find, But there was one thing left behind A litter-strewn, deserted site, Like ghosts, they’d vanished overnight They’d all moved on to who knows where I’ll not forget the old steam fair From Peggy Clarke
Memorial Hall Mountsorrel Memorial Hall Committee and Mountsorrel Heritage Group plan a display to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the opening, on June 26, 1965, of the Memorial Hall and we need your help! Have you any photos or documents relating to the hall and all the village activities that have taken place there in the last 50 years that you can share with us? or could you write the story of your memories for us? Please contact me on 0116 2375623 johncdoyle@talktalk.net John Doyle
other choirs Competed by BBC Radio Leicester Presenters Dave Andrews & Monica Winfield Tickets from £10 tel: 0116 233 3111 Call De Montfort Hall Box Office, open Mon-Sat: 10am to 6pm In aid of: LOROS, Rainbows, Hope Against Cancer
Open Church Weekend at St Leonards Church, Swithland September 19/20 Tea and cakes will be served each day from 2-4pm
Birstall & District Art Society
Birstall Running Club
Oct 31, Nov 1- Nov 2 at the Village Hall, Birstall Road, Leicester, LE4 4DH. Open 9.30am-5.00pm Sat & Sun, 9.30am-3.00pm Mon. Free admission, wheelchair access, refreshments, free parking to the rear of the village hall. Visit: www.badas.co.uk
Meet Monday & Friday nights, 6.20 for 6.30pm run Birstall School Lane playing fields – showers & toilets available Wednesday night beginners group at Birstall Legion 7pm Speed work sessions also available on Wednesdays for those wanting to improve Contact Deryk on d-woods1@sky.com or Bob 07927 346640
Mountsorrel Railway & Station Opening Weekend Sat & Sun October 24 and 25 Be one of the first to ever discover the new addition to the Great Central’s railway Take a return, guided trip on the brand new, one mile branch line Trains will top & tail with two steam locos Guest locomotive – to be announced Shuttle trains will run from 12pm on Saturday & 10am on Sunday until 3.30pm Refreshments available Have a guided tour of the new Heritage Centre site, opening early 2016 Only chance to ride the branch line in 2015 Fares £5 adult, £3 child (advance booking or cash only on the day) Advance booking is advisable www.gcrailway.co.uk 01509 632323 Sat 26 Sept 2015, 7.30pm English Martyrs School, Anstey Lane, Leicester
Chamber Serenade 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. Call or text Rachel on 0793 1129 360 Email mountsorrelunitedcharities@outlook.com Our website will be back soon Registered charity number 217615
music - or all of the above – there is something for you. As a thank you to its loyal supporters, the orchestra would like to offer this performance for free to those Patrons, Friends and subscribers to the 94th Concert Season who book tickets in advance. Tickets £10, Students and 25 & under £2 from the Leicester Symphony Ticket Secretary.
Conductor: John Andrews Elgar Serenade for Strings Dvo ák Wind Serenade Bernstein Dance Suite for Brass Quintet Haydn Symphony 104 ('London') An intimate treat for lovers of chamber music and small ensemble playing; this concert is a great way to hear music in its purest form. Whether you are a fan of string, woodwind or brass
21st Annual Exhibition
The Rothley Heritage Trust Presents
Elgar & The Great War By Barry Collett Saturday 14th November 2015 10.3016.30 The Old School Rooms, School St. Rothley Course Fee £7 (includes morning and afternoon refreshments) Early Enrolment by Post Essential Cheques payable to The Rothley Heritage Trust and sent to Brenda Sutherland, 4 North St., Rothley, Leicester LE7 7NN. Please include name(s), address, ‘phone number and e-mail (if applicable) so that details of the day can be sent to you. Further information from Marion Vincent 0116 2375156 vincent.mbe82@yahoo.co.uk The Rothley Heritage Trust is a Registered Charity No. 1145397
Table Top Sale Birstall Methodist Church Wanlip Lane, Birstall. Saturday 28th November 2015 10.00am - 2.00pm (Christmas Festival Weekend) Tables available @ £10 each Contact 0116 2671181
Soar Valley Artists
Annual Exhibition the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley, LE7 7PR Saturday & Sunday, 10th and 11th October 2015, 10am to 5 pm. As usual there will be paintings in a variety of styles and media, most of which will be for sale, and refreshments will be available, including home - made cakes. Entry is free and all are welcome to come and browse, be inspired (hopefully!), and then relax with a cuppa!
MOUNTSORREL POST
Lace up your walking boots and join LOROS for a
‘Walk on the Wildside’ Sunday 27th September! The popular countryside walk is back for 2015 and this year, has an exciting new start location at Bradgate Park’s Hunts Hill car park! There are three scenic trails to choose from: a 4.5 mile trail, an 11 mile trail or the Tiny Trail (suitable for little ones, pushchairs and wheelchair users), all leading you through the beautiful Bradgate Park and Charnwood Forest. Food will be available along with lively warm-up sessions, an activity area for the children and much more! Everyone participating will receive a goody bag and certificate on the day. Register online at loros.co.uk/wow or call (0116) 231 8431 for your FREE fundraising pack!
Film Presentations Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council
“The Imitation Game”
Oct 16th (114 mins) October’s film is set in Bletchley Park during the Second World War when Alan Turing, played by Benedict Cumberbatch, amazingly breaks the Enigma Code. This film is a "must" for our cinema goers. Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall. Starting at 7.30pm.There will be refreshments and a lucky prize draw. Advance tickets may be purchased via the parish office –0116 236 7626 or at the door.
New Cedars Academy, Birstall Year 6 Open Day and Family Fun Day 9am to 3pm on Saturday 26 September 2015 The Open Day is an opportunity for parents, carers and pupils thinking about their choice of secondary school to learn more about the new academy. Visitors will be able to see the classrooms and other facilities, and meet the staff. The Cedars Academy also plans to offer guided ‘hard-hat’ tours around the new buildings as they will be close to completion. The entrance is on Wanlip Lane. The Family Fun Day will celebrate the opening of this new school (formed from the merger of Stonehill and Longslade). Between 9am and 3pm, there will be free entertainment, a variety of games and stalls and food. Most of the activities will be free. There will be an opening ceremony at 12 noon attended by the Mayor of Charnwood, Councillor John Capleton.
A Musical Coffee Morning At St. James Parish Church,
Church Hill, Birstall, on Saturday, Sept.26th 10am till Noon. Music by the 663 Ensemble & Friends Donations to the Altzhheimers Society •
The Mountsorrel Heritage Group is a Heritage Lottery Funded group committed to creating an archive of both photographic and audio records of our historic village. We meet on the second Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm in Mountsorrel Library and either have guest speakers on a variety of subjects relevant to the village and its immediate environs or visits to other locations during the summer months. We hold regular exhibitions throughout the year either independently or as part of other fund raising charity events. Our forthcoming events are as follows:Sept 8th 2015 - 70years of Fishing on the River Soar - A talk by Roy Bennett Oct 13th 2015 - Bits & Bobs - Unusual objects from the past! - Bob Neill Nov 10th 2015 - A History of Mountsorrel Pubs - An illustrated talk by Keith Foster Nov 17th 2015 - Annual General Meeting Dec 1st 2015 - Skittle Evening Jan 12th 2016 - Edmund Stacey - A talk about St Peters Church (in St Peters Church) Feb 9th 2016 - Law and Order - A talk by Maggie Hunt March 8th 2016 - Ernie Miller - Local History Talk April 12th 2016 - Peter Liddle - Local History Talk Mountsorrel Heritage Group is pleased to say a big Thank You! to all villagers and everyone who has supported us at charity events throughout the year, not forgetting those who have either donated funds or precious objects to enhance the Mountsorrel Archive Collection. Everyone is welcome - Come along to our meetings - Yearly Membership is £5
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Support the 2015 Poppy appeal THE POPPY, the only thing which grew following the devastation on the Western Front in Flanders and Picardy, has been the emblem of remembrance and The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal since 1921 when poppies were sold to raise money for the ex-Service community. The appeal benefits service people and their families from all the campaigns from the 1st World War to today. The long term legacy of support that is needed for our service personnel and their families as a result of operations in Afghanistan alone is stark. There we suffered 454 dead and over 2000 wounded in action some of whom will need medical and other support for the rest of their lives. The Royal British Legion, with your support, and in cooperation with partner charities including, Help for Heroes and individual Service and Regimental charities is leading the way in delivering that support. Nationally the Poppy Appeal raised over £34 million last year but we spend at least £1.7 million every week of the year on our longstanding welfare support initiatives which include: • Running our Care Homes and Break Centres • Providing a Benefits and Money Advice service which has helped over 11,000 individuals to date; • Making direct Grants totalling £24 million awarded to 42 organisations; • Making individual grants totalling £18 million to over 22,000 beneficiaries. Mountsorrel has always been tremendously supportive of the work of the Legion and in last year’s Poppy appeal together we raised over £4660 that has gone towards our continuing and ever developing welfare work. This year’s appeal is launched on October 24 with an Official Poppy Appeal launch with a coffee (and tea!) and cake morning at the Sorrel Youth Cafe on The Green, and of
course we will be selling Poppies at locations across the village from the same day. If you would like to help the Appeal please contact johncdoyle@talktalk.net From John Doyle
Planning P/15/1726/2: 70 Hawcliffe Road – erection of two storey extension to side and rear and single storey extensions to front & rear of dwelling P/15/1587/2: 41 Halstead Road – erection of single storey rear extension to dwelling to replace existing conservatory and utility room P/15/1594/2: 48 Hawcliffe Road – erection of single storey extension to rear of dwelling P/15/1531/2: 88 Church Hill Road – enlargement of window opening to form door to front elevation P/15/1302/2: The Grapes, 15 Leicester Road – various external alterations to include relocation of front door, alteration to existing door, relocation of window and replacement of render to gable elevations (Listed Building consent) P/15/1395/2: Neal Harby Transport, Granite Way – replacement of two storey building for office accommodation P/15/1377/2: 4 Grange Lane – single storey extension to side of dwelling P/15/1311/2: Land between 72 & 74 Boundary Road – site for the erection of two semi-detached dwellings P/15/1330/2: 70 Hawcliffe Rd – erection of two storey extension to side & rear and single storey extensions to front & rear of dwelling P/15/1101/2: Soar Valley Nurseries, 263 Loughborough Road – erection of 10 dwellings P/15/1181/2: 12 Martin Ave – erection of a two storey extension to rear and a brick skin to external walls of side, front & rear of dwelling P/15/1230/2: The Poplars Nursing Home, Watling Street – replacement of timber structure passage to 1st floor with brick structure P/15/1090/2: 17 Cloud Lea – conversion of garage into habitable space
ALL TYPES OF DOMESTIC & INDUSTRIAL WORK
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Control Electrics Ltd Tel: 0116 2682910 FREE ESTIMATES
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MOUNTSORREL POST
SEP 2015
School pupil seeks investors
Cedars Academy THE CEDARS Academy, a new 11 to 18 school in Birstall, is holding a Year 6 Open Day on Saturday 26 September in conjunction with a Family Fun Day to celebrate the opening of this new school.
Robert Saunt (15) of Kingfisher Drive has designed it so that games only need one controller on multiple games consoles. Earlier this year Robert, a pupil at Loughborough Grammar School, was runner up in the intermediate engineering and technology category of the National Science and Engineering competition with his design. This summer he was a regional finalist in the International Google Science Fair, one of only for from the UK, but did not make it into the final 20. Robert’s innovative design has an interchangeable transmitter: users
PHOTO: COURTESY LEICESTER MERCURY
A TEENAGE entrepreneur from Mountsorrel is looking for investors to back his idea for a new video game controller.
Pic: Robert Saunt with his video game controller
simply swap cards depending on which console they want to play with. It also has a loudspeaker to play music streamed from your mobile device. “There has been a tremendous response to the controller from con-
sumers, asking when they can buy it” said Robert. “I’m hoping to get a prototype made by a company in Florida, a specialist firm that has worked with NASA and HP. Then I’ll look for investors and hopefully get it mass produced” he added.
Food bank supporting people
The Open Day is an opportunity for parents, carers and pupils thinking about their choice of secondary school to learn more about the new academy. Visitors will be able to see the classrooms and other facilities, and meet the staff. The Cedars Academy also plans to offer guided ‘hardhat’ tours around the new buildings as they will be close to completion. The entrance is on Wanlip Lane. The Cedars Academy has arisen from the merger of The Stonehill High School and Longslade Community College. It is part of the Lionheart Academies Trust, which is led by Beauchamp College, an outstanding school and consistently one of the best performing schools in the county and one of the highest achieving nationwide. Students and teaching staff recently celebrated record A Level results at Longslade Community College, for the last time before the school reopens as The Cedars Academy. Pupils starting Year 7 in 2016 must apply for their secondary school place before 31 October 2015. The Family Fun Day will celebrate the opening of this new school. Between 9am and 3pm, there will be free entertainment, a variety of games and stalls and food. Most of the activities will be free.
Annual charity fete
A FOOD BANK has given out over 400 food parcels since it opened in September 2014. The Soar Valley Community Food Project is based in Rothley Baptist Church, Woodgate, in the centre of Rothley and provides food to those in need in Mountsorrel, Rothley and other Soar Valley villages. It also directs people to other assistance that might be available. Project co-ordinator Tim Jackson said: “We do this in a relaxed manner over a drink and biscuit. We are able to support people to a better future by helping them in the short term to put food on the table and to assist them find a way forward out of the crisis.” Examples of what the project has been able to help with over the last year include: • Chasing the council to complete vital repairs to a rental house that had been outstanding for over a year • Getting a young family’s gas reconnected to ensure heating in the depths of winter • Supporting a family having major issues with neighbours • Going to court with a family to help them avoid being evicted from their house • Being able to provide food to individuals and families who have not eaten for several days In addition, the linked Soar Valley Community Money Advice Centre can offer advice on debt, benefit entitlement, cost-saving ideas and budgeting. Tim Jackson said: “It has been fantastic to be able to help so many people over the past 10 months on their journey. Life can be a challenge for all of us at times and we feel privileged to support people when the need gets too great. We
have an amazing team who work closely together to support all those who visit us. “We are tremendously grateful to the local supermarkets and their customers who have donated food. When you shop please look out for the donation bins and donate non-perishable food. Also if you are connected with a school please consider making us the beneficiary of your harvest festival collection next term” The Soar Valley Community Food Project, which is jointly run by Rothley Parish Church and Rothley Baptist Church, is based at the Baptist Church, Woodgate, Rothley and is open Monday mornings from 11am to 1pm. It is open to anyone who needs help. “Please pop in for a coffee and see us, call/text 07743 765958 or email soarvalleycfp@gmail.org and start the journey to a better future” said Tim. If you would like to donate food, money or time drop in or call 07743 765958.
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OUR PICS show some of the many stalls at this year’s Mountsorrel Fete, a charity fundraising event held on The Green on June 13. PHOTOS: CLIVE RASIN
DE MONTFORT MEMORIALS • MONUMENTAL SCULPTORS • NEW MEMORIALS • CLEANING & RESTORATION • QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP • BROCHURE ON REQUEST
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Tel: 0116 2601851
ashwell Stoves & Chimneys Ltd Installation of wood burning Domestic Stoves SUPPLY & INSTALLATION OR INSTALLATION ONLY
FREE EXPERT ADVICE Accredited HETAS installer Bramley Rd, Birstall
07712 772497 07801 482 115 info@ashwellstoves.co.uk
MOUNTSORREL POST
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is still required if you are selling or renting out your house. Call David Jackson on 0781 5519490 to arrange your EPC
SEP 2015
Advertise in the
MOUNTSORREL POST 47 x 59mm £23 • 47 x 120mm £41 98 x 59mm £41 • 98 x 120mm £69
1) Decide what size you want 2) Send us a sketch of your ad 3) We design, publish This Siz & send e you the Wednes bill days
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CALL 4422067 for an advertising rate card, or view online at www.birstallpost.co.uk The prices above exclude VAT
Grants for education
Parade & service of Remembrance Guild’s
YOUNG PEOPLE seeking financial assistance to help continue their education can apply to a village charity.
THE FALLEN in all conflicts THE MOUNTSORREL Townswomen’s Guild are celebrating will be remembered at their 70th anniversary this September. Mountsorrel’s Remembrance A spokeswoman said: “Back then the events in November. speakers were varied, to cover all tastes,
The Mountsorrel Educational Fund is administered by a Body of Trustees who, at their absolute discretion, can award grants from the funds available to the Charity to assist young people in pursuing their education. The Chairman of the Trustees, Mr Brian Allard, said: “Grants amounting to £70,907 were awarded by the Trustees in 2014 to local school pupils, students and those in Higher Education and Training. The Trustees will be considering at their meeting in November applications from persons who are planning to extend their education at college and university.” Applications can be made from persons under the age of 25, who are pupils or former pupils of Christ Church and Saint Peters Church of England School, or who have been or whose parents have been resident in the electoral parish of Mountsorrel for at least 12 calendar months. The forms of application are as follows: Application Form 1 – University/Higher Education Application Form 2 – A Level/College Equivalent/Apprenticeships Application Form 3 – Educational Visits (Primary to A Level) Application Form 4 – Music Tuition (Primary onwards) Application Form 5 – Other Applications All of the above forms can be obtained by sending a stamped addressed envelope detailing which Application Form is required, to the Clerk to the Trustees, Mr P R Blakemore, KDB Accountants and Consultants Ltd, 21 Hollytree Close, Hoton, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE12 5SE The deadline for submission of completed application forms is October 16, 2015.
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2015 has seen some significant Great War anniversaries, notably the 100th anniversaries of the Battle of Frezenberg Ridge, which saw tremendous losses by the Leicestershire Yeomanry, and the storming of the Hohenzollern Redoubt involving men from both 4th and 5th Battalions of the Leicestershire Regiment. In both these battles Mountsorrel men lost their lives in the service of our country. Nearer in time, the Second World War, in which again Mountsorrel men were lost, has been remembered for the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain and the 70th anniversaries of both VE and VJ day. The year is also the 65th Anniversary of the start of the Korean War in which men from the village served. The village parade to mark those anniversaries and remember and honour the fallen in all conflicts will take place on Sunday November 8 leaving the Green at 2.30pm for the Remembrance Service at St Peter’s church, Market Place, at 3pm. On November 11 at 11am there will be a short service at the Peace Garden on the corner of Sileby Lane
H Towell Funeral Services
not unlike todays meetings. The Social Studies group met in each other’s homes, or an outing, visiting places of interest. So really nothing has changed. “We have had various venues, Church House at the bottom of the Green, long before it became a library, Christchurch School rooms, and of course The Parish Rooms to name but a few.” The Guild are preparing for their Anniversary Celebrations, and meet on the first & third Thursdays in the month in the Parish Rooms at 7.30pm. Visitors and new members are always welcome. Why not drop in and join them. Pic: The Mountsorrel Townswomen’s Guild: dressed up for a day at the races.
Woodcock Farm Shop Manure,
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Woodchip Mulch, Topsoil & Compost:
Fresh Fruit & Veg Local Honey & Preserves incl Marmalade & Chutney
we can deliver bulk loads of these items, call or visit for further details
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Horse & Pony Feeds, Goat Feeds, Poultry Feeds, RabbitFood, TOP QUALITY HAY Straw & Shavings ORNAMENTAL TREES
Call us 24 hours a day Private chapels of rest 5 Danvers Rd, Mountsorrel Tel: 0116 230 2449 Part of Dignity plc. A British Company
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LOUGHBOROUGH RD, ROTHLEY Tel (0116) 230 2215 James 07802 915559 Fred 0797 7014606 OPENING TIMES Mon-Fri 9am to 6pm Sat 9am to 5.30pm Sun 9.30am to 5pm Please note these times may change during public holidays. Ring us for details.
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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. Trade/business rates for small ads are 25p a word. You are liable for the trade/business rate if you are offering a service for which you are asking for payment, or if you are advertising new goods for sale. All text will be printed bold. Box outline £1 extra. Max 50 words. Phone numbers count as one word.
AMLI DESIGN Architectural Consultancy. Plans drawn and submitted. Extensions, conversions, new build. David Ives B.Sc.(Hons) FBEng MCIOB 0116 2674395/07974807111 www.amlidesign.co.uk
Faster 4G rolled out TELECOMS COMPANY Vodafone says it has rolled out 4G services in Mountsorrel. A spokesman said: “The arrival of Vodafone 4G in Mountsorrel means all customers with compatible devices and bundles will be able to connect to the internet more quickly, more reliably and in more places than ever before.” Vodafone has now extended its 4G coverage to 593 larger cities, towns and districts as well as thousands of smaller communities across the UK. Vodafone plans to provide coverage using 2G, 3G or 4G services to 98% of the UK population. The rollout of 4G services is part of approximately £2billion Vodafone is spending on its network and services in the UK across 2014 and 2015. This includes network improvements across its 3G network aimed at both indoor and outdoor coverage and the nationwide provision of HD (High Definition) Voice technology on its 3G network. The Vodafone Rural Open Sure Signal programme is also aiming to bring 3G coverage for the first time to 100 remote communities across the UK.
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MOUNTSORREL POST
SEP 2015