MOUNTSORREL POST YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
DECEMBER 2021
www.birstallpost.co.uk
No. 77
Team’s Castle Hill litter pick
Merry Christmas To all our readers & advertisers from us all at the
MOUNTSORREL COMMUNITY Team members enjoyed some autumn afternoon sunshine on a recent litter pick at the War Memorial on Castle Hill.
MOUNTSORREL POST
They collected seven black bags of rubbish in just an hour. John Doyle of the Royal British Legion said: “Mountsorrel Royal British Legion Branch says thank you. This was really timely as we moved towards Armistice Day and then Remembrance Sunday when many folk quietly visit the Memorial. The Branch really appreciate this, as will others.” The March issue of the
MOUNTSORREL POST will be published on March 12. The copy deadline is Feb 25 .
DAVE HUTCHINGS GENERAL BUILDING & HOME REPAIRS
Brickwork • Patios Re-pointing Fencing etc No job too small Friendly Reliable Service Free Quotations • Fully Insured
Tel: 0116 260 7716 Mob: 07770 785400 Email: dave@dave-hutchings.com Website: www.dave-hutchings.com
Pic: team members with the bags of litter they collected on Castle Hill
CORTS HARDWARE 3 Cross Green, Rothley. Tel: 0116 2375347
KILN D RIED LOGS
G KINDLIN
Fantastic Range of LED bulbs
Est: 1993
EXTENSIVE RANGE OF ELECTRICAL ACCESSORIES • • • • • • •
Fluorescent Tubes Extension Leads Sockets and Switches Phone Chargers Security Lights Plug-in Timers Television accessories
• • • • • •
Cable and Conduit Kettles and Irons Toasters & Hairdryers USB, HDMI & Scart Leads Large range of LED bulbs Adaptors & Fuses Torches & Batteries
MOUNTSORREL POST
2
DEC 2021
Writer’s first novel deals with the reality of honour killings THE EFFECTS on a family of an honour killing feature in the first novel of a Mountsorrel author. Solicitor Nash Ramji (62), was a justice of the peace for six years, sitting on many cases in the magistrates' court. One particular case concerned an honour killing and it gave him the idea for writing his first book. “It’s a taboo subject, “said Nash, “and one I wanted to highlight.” Nash’s novel, The Price of Honour, is about young girls of Pakistani origin growing up in the 1970s. The Rehman family welcome a male heir, Abdel, to join their five daughters, but their happi-
ness is short-lived after tragedy strikes, hitting the family hard. The five Rehman daughters have to grow up fast, looking after the newly born baby brother while at the same time adhering to their father strict rules. This is not easy as they grow up in the UK, within a culture very different from that of their Pakistan born father, who insists on holding his traditional cultural values at the expense of his family. The arrival of a pretentious stepmother changes their world in a heartbeat. While one daughter, Saleena, discovers that the marriage her father arranged for her is loveless and abusive, her brother Abdul doubles in western
Pic: author Nash Ramji & (above)the cover of his novel
MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2021
habits and needs to keep his private life secret. One reviewer on Amazon wrote: “The author has a very special way of writing that gets you on your edge and keeps you reading more.”
The price of honour, and its sequel, The Price of Honour – Seeking Justice, are published by Austin Macauley and are available from Amazon.
Misted up double glazing ? Replace with new clear sealed units Faulty locks & handles replaced
Call Colin Wright for a free quote LOCAL BUSINESS 07765635505 • 01162209573
3
MOUNTSORREL POST
4
DEC 2021
Village fund that supports those in need A MOUNTSORREL organisation that helps people in need has been praised for the support it provides. “It has provided my family with confidential and sensitive support, which I will always be grateful for. It's an amazing resource available to the people of Mountsorrel, in times when they need it most,” said one beneficiary of the Mountsorrel Community Support Fund (MCSF). The MCSF helps residents of Mountsorrel who find themselves in need, hardship or distress.
thing like essential bills that need paying.” Some testimonials from people the organisation has helped: “Very easy to apply, very fair and helpful. They really helped me when I was in financial difficulty and I felt my needs were listened to. Absolutely great service.”
}
It was created specifically to support local people by providing financial assistance in the form of grants, which do not have to be repaid. In 2020 it gave grants totalling £113,292 to support “I lost my job, my purpose local people during times and my self-esteem, which of need, hardship and resulted in severe depresdistress. sion. Money was a Co-ordinator Jo major worry and so Alesbrook said: “We was form filling and are able to help in a long phone calls desvariety of ways and perately trying to get over the years have help. Phoning the helped members of Community Support the community with Fund was the best call I electrical household made.” products, like cookers To apply, contact Jo by Pic: Jo Alesbrook and fridges, decorating, phone or email to arrange a Tel 07931 129360 carpeting, furniture, mobilivisit to discuss the reason jo@mountsorrelcsf.org.uk for the application and take ty equipment, such as mobility scooters that are down all the financial details of the not supplied by Social Services, hospital household. travel expenses, footcare, gardening and Jo said: “This is done in confidence help financially. This could be for some-
and without judgement. People can be referred and signposted to other organisations for support.”
Clear Ear Services Phone 07936 899 855 Mobile ear syringing service (we come to you!) Professional, Friendly, Experienced & Qualified Nurses, Fiona and Vanessa
bobzgas@gmail.com
1 - 4 - AL L
MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2021
Domestic Appliance Spares & Repairs All Leading Makes Serviced 20 Years Experience Washers • Dryers • Dishwashers Fridges • Cookers
GAS & ELECTRIC David Preston - 0775 262 3885
www.1-4-all.co.uk
Festive Season!
Order now to avoid disappointment
MOT VEHICLE TESTING STATION
TESTING
CROPSTON GARAGE
Boiler & Gas Fires Serviced
the Everything you need for
Oven Ready Game available in season
12 YR WARRANTY ON BOILER INSTALLS 07860 735066 0116 2367923
FARM SHOP Oven Ready, Farm Fresh Turkeys & Cockerels
PETROLS • DIESELS MOTORCYCLES
Contact Rob:
Woodcock
Christmas Trees from 2ft-12ft
all inclusive price
Service, Repairs, Installations of all Gas Appliances
BOILER REPLACEMENTS • SAME DAY BREAKDOWN VISITS
Christmas at
Home Grown, pick or dig-your-own
£40
GAS-SERVWELL (Charnwood Ltd)
Decisions are made by the volunteer board, who meet eight times a year. www.mountsorrelcsf.org.uk
37 - 39 Station Road Cropston, Leicester 0116 2362363
All your Christmas Fruit, Vegetables & Nuts including home grown potatoes (Red Mozart, White Marfona) & Sprout Sticks
Festive Wreaths • Holly • Mistletoe Plus all our usuals including: Free Range Eggs • Local Honey Preserves • Marmalade • Chutneys
Manure, Woodchip Mulch, Topsoil we can deliver bulk loads of these items, call or visit for further details
DIY Liveries FIREWOOD: bulk loads delivered Good Quality Dry Logs, Hard & Soft Wood, Smokeless Fuel, Kindling And lots more!
LOUGHBOROUGH RD, ROTHLEY Tel (0116) 230 2215 James 07802 915559
OPENING TIMES Mon-Sat 9am to 5pm Sun 9.30am to 5pm Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day
www.woodcockfarm.co.uk jamesbarber@woodcockfarm.co.uk
5
Youth work in Mountsorrel reaching more
Pics: (above & left) youth work activities in the pavilion
Sorrel Young Carers is held every second and fourth Wednesday of the month.
Pic: (right) Anthony Marvin, Youth & Community Officer and (left) Brian Norris, Youth Engagement Worker, out offering support as part of the Reach Out project on bonfire night
Parish Council notes A MEETING of Mountsorrel Parish Council’s finance and general purposes committee was held on August 16.
6
It was agreed to improve the Parish Council website. This will make locating agendas, minutes and other documents easier. The total cost of this work will be less than £400. Councillors considered a report on the cemetery project. This involves the creation of a database of burial records, producing maps, new signage and the introduction of a computer-based system for the day-to-day management of the cemetery. It was agreed to approve the recommendations in the report and to extend the contract of the admin assistant (cemetery) for a further six months, to end in March 2022. It was agreed to spend up to £1500 on the purchase of 10 new folding tables for the parish room. Tables at the library may mean purchasing new ones is unnecessary. It was agreed that James Nelson be
appointed as manager of the Memorial Centre. The council agreed to initiate a system for the collection of payments from homeowners on Little Lane and Grapes Garden Close for the maintenance of the roads and to explore with the County Council having the roads adopted. A meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on September 13. It was agreed to donate £500 to the Royal British Legion for the annual poppy appeal. The council will investigate sources of grant aid for work to maintain the war memorial. Mountsorrel’s County Councillor has been allocated £25,000 to be spent on highway improvements. It was agreed to prioritise a pedestrian crossing at the primary school and if this is not possible, vehicle activated speed signs on Loughborough Road, on Walton Way and Halstead Road. Councillors discussed the Betty Henser’s Horsefair. Comment was made that local businesses needed to be more
involved in consultations about the fair and that Charnwood Borough Council could do more to improve the management of the fair. The Planning and Policy Committee met on October 4. It was reported that the crime figures for Mountsorrel since September 6 were thefts x 10, bicycle thefts x two, ASB x three, criminal damage x four, burglary x one. At a meeting of the finance and general purposes committee on October 11, it was agreed to allocate up to £11,000 for the provision of replacement Christmas lights.
Elizabeth Mobile Hairdresser shampoo • set blo-dry • perms
Call: 0780 380 2895
We are currently open to referrals on this group. Referrals can be made by the young person, parent/carer, guardian or professional involved with the family. Referral forms can be downloaded from our website https://lryfs.co.uk/documents or requested by contacting us on 07979031673 / 0116 442 2979 or youthofficer@lryfs.co.uk. The group is free to attend, and travel can be arranged for those who can’t make their own way there. The Pavilion Youth Project is held every Friday, and we hope to hold further sessions during half terms and holidays. We are currently looking at our options that will allow us to open sessions for the younger members of the community aged 8-11 (primary). This has been something we have wanted to do for some time, but lack of venue and staffing has not allowed for it. We hope to have something in place and ready to open in the New Year if not sooner. We also have plans to open Pyramid, an LGBTQ+ group, on the first and fourth Wednesday of the month at the WMFT Pavilion. This will be in the New Year following a consultation we are currently doing with the young people who would attend. Alongside the face-to-face groups, we continue to run our Reach Out project which takes our workers onto the streets of Mountsorrel engaging with young people, families and members of the community, offering support and information where needed. We continue to provide a community outreach support service to those vulnerable in the community who need some additional support. This includes such things as collecting prescriptions, groceries, essentials or even just a check-in to see if they are ok. This is something that we started over lockdown one and due to the response and need, we decided to keep this offer open. For any information on any of our services, please feel free to get in touch or check out our social media pages by searching Leicestershire & Rutland Youth and Family Services.
DEC 2021
It has taken a long time to find the right venue within the village that would allow us to operate safely and securely
for the young people whilst also keeping within our budget. We have been lucky enough to secure two evenings a week at the Mountsorrel War Memorial Fields Trust (WMFT) Pavilion on a trial basis with hopes to extend the hire after Christmas. The use of WMFT premises has allowed us to open up Sorrel Young Carers again after over 18 months of being closed to face-to-face activities. This much needed and valued group provides support, information, friendships and a bit of respite for young people aged 11-17 who provide caring duties for another person, all in a safe friendly and confidential environment.
MOUNTSORREL POST
LEICESTERSHIRE & Rutland Youth and Family Services has been working hard to get face to face youth groups back up and running within Mountsorrel. Anthony Marvin, Youth & Community Officer, reports:
Noticeboard all details printed free Christmas Tree Festival Christ Church, Mountsorrel 2021 Dates and times Friday 3rd December, 10am last entry 4.30pm Saturday 4th Dec, 10am last entry 3.30pm Sunday 5th Dec, 1pm last entry 3pm Refreshments available on Saturday and Sunday. Venue Christ Church, Rothley Road, Mountsorrel, LE12 7JU The Mountsorrel Community Team are very pleased to announce that the next
Mountsorrel REVIVAL
Mountsorrel Memorial Centre
Lights Switch On & Christmas Fayre Sunday December 5, 2021 Join us on Sunday December 5 for the traditional Mountsorrel Christmas Light switch on. We’ll have a Christmas Craft Fayre from 11am until 3pm, then entertainment and food stalls outside. Plus the big man in red, Santa Claus, will be popping by to say hello from 1pm until 5.30pm. Lights will be switched on at 5pm. Doors open at 11am Admission: FREE The team at Loughborough Town Hall and producers Little Wolf Entertainment are thrilled to welcome audiences back to their award-winning pantomime which, this year, sees everyone’s favourite tale of
Aladdin take to the stage with the return of fan favourite and winner of Best Dame in the 2020 Great British Pantomime Awards, James
Peake, in the role of Widow Twankey. Aladdin runs at Loughborough Town Hall from the 20th November 2021 to 2nd January 2022 with tickets starting from just £15. For more information on other performances and to book tickets, visit loughboroughtownhall.co.uk or call our Box Office on 01509 231914.
Carols on the Green in Mountsorrel Sat Dec 18, 11am – 12noon You are invited to join us for this open air celebration, singing carols together in a beautiful location. Everyone welcome! Churches together in Mountsorrel
Mountsorrel Christmas Trail & Christmas Decorations competition Our first Christmas Trail around Mountsorrel was such a hit last
year that we've been asked to do it again. Want to join in? You can go all out with your decorating and enter for an award, or just decorate for the fun of enjoying the season and bringing a smile. If you want to enter for an award the categories are: Best decorated window by a child/children – judged by Tigger! Best outside display for a home Most sustainable decorations Most Festive Street (or part street) Best business display We’ll start adding decorated locations to our trail map from Dc 3. Judging will take place Dec 12-14 Go to www.the-mct.co.uk for more details We can't wait to see all your amazing decorations Organised by the Mountsorrel Community Team
Christmas in Leicester 2021 ‘£’ denotes a charge applies or a ticket is required: 13 Nov–20 Feb: The Snowman™ and The Snowdog: Exhibition at Newarke Houses Museum 18 Nov-2 Jan: Town Hall Square: • Traditional nativity scene and the story of Christmas • Christmas tableau and Interactive Adventure, featuring an aug-
MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2021
will be held on Sunday August 14, 2022. After having to cancel REVIVAL in 2020 and 2021 the team are excited at the prospect of being able
to once again put on our event. More details will follow in the build-up. If you’d like to help us in any capacity contact the team to volunteer. We look forward to seeing everyone at REVIVAL 2022.
7
mented reality experience for children 18 Nov–2 Jan: Billy Bates’ Festive Funfair on Humberstone Gate (£) 18 Nov–5 Jan: BID Leicester
presents Rhizome in Orton Square End Nov- 2 Jan: Wheel of Light in Jubilee Square (£) 2 Dec–3 Jan: Christmas ice rink in Jubilee Square (£) 4–23 Dec: Santa in the Square (Green Dragon Square) 4-5 Dec: Christmas Craft Weekend at Newarke Houses Museum (£) 5-24 Dec: Let it Snow at Highcross 11 Dec: Frosty Fun Day at the Guildhall (£) 11 Dec: Festive film in Green Dragon Square at 5pm: Miracle on 34th Street (1994) 11-12 Dec: Christmas Craft Weekend at Newarke Houses Museum (£) 12 Dec: The Muppet Christmas Carol at the Guildhall (£) 12 Dec: Magical Christmas Film Shorts at the Guildhall (£) 12 Dec: It’s a Wonderful Life at the Guildhall (£) 15 Dec: Two Ghost Stories by MR James at the Guildhall (£) 18 Dec: Festive film in Green Dragon Square at 5pm: The Santa Clause 18-19 Dec: Christmas Craft Weekend at Newarke Houses Museum (£) 23 Dec: A Christmas Carol with Gerald Dickens. The Guildhall (£)
Burglary: man charged
Remembrance in Mountsorrel RESIDENTS YOUNG and old gathered at the Mountsorrel Peace Garden on Armistice Day, November 11, to remember all those who have lost their lives in conflict. Wreaths and crosses were laid beside the memorial, led by pupils of Christ Church and St Peter’s Primary School. Despite there not being a parade this year, a Remembrance Service at St Peter’s
Pics: The Royal British Legion Standard is lowered on Armistice Day in Mountsorrel; (left) wreaths and crosses placed on the memorial on the Peace Garden; (below)two of the many hand-painted stones naming fallen soldiers
Church took place at 3pm on Sunday November 14. Wreaths laid during the service were later moved to the Peace Garden. After the Service, a wreath was laid at the Memorial in the foyer of Mountsorrel Memorial Centre. There was also a wreath laying at Castle Hill War Memorial on Friday November 5, by representatives of Leicester University, who have been carrying out a Poppy Pilgrimage around the County to mark the University’s Centenary.
8
• Sales, Repairs & Upgrades • Wired & Wireless Networking • Branded & Custom Built PCs • Laptops, printers, peripherals & accessories • Server Installation & Support • On-site Maintenance & Remote Support • Original & Compatible Cartridges/Toners • Buy Dell products through our store
Covering Leicestershire
0116 2672583 Mob: 0796 7 191975
www.ntlcomputers.co.uk 3 The Meadway, Birstall LE4 4NG
MOUNTSORREL POST
The offences were committed in Loughborough and Mountsorrel over the last few months. The man has been remanded to prison pending his crown court appearance later in December. Police sergeant Chris Wharton said: “Charnwood CID officers wish to express thanks to victims, witnesses, partner agencies and uniformed colleagues for their contribution to this excellent result that sees a prolific criminal taken off our streets.”
DEC 2021
AN 18-YEAR-OLD man from Mountsorrel has been charged with five burglaries and five theft of motor-vehicle offences.
Mountsorrel quarry supports village cleanup Festive lineup for winter season MOUNTSORREL MEMORIAL Centre has reopened its doors for events and shows and has announced its festive lineup for the coming winter season. Sunday December 5 is the traditional Mountsorrel Christmas Light Switch On. with a Christmas Craft Fayre, outside entertainment and food stalls. The big man in red, Santa Claus, will be popping by to say hello. On December 10 and 11, We Tried Kylie will be here covering the best dance floor fillers of the 80's. Fancy dress is encouraged. From December 16-, Panto is back! Oh yes it is! Join Cinderella and her best friend Buttons (who secretly has a bit of a crush on her) as they work through
the enormous list of chores set by her wicked stepsisters. When an invitation to the Winter Ball is sent from Prince Charming, excitement ensues – but will Cinderella make it to the ball? With a bit of magic from her Fairy Godmother, and with the love and support of her best friend, perhaps she will… On December 31, a New Year's Eve party will feature live music. A centre spokesperson said: “Join us for the party of the year! Have fun at the casino, sing along to some swinging classics and dance into 2022 with us! With live music from brilliant swing singer Stuart Bryan plus a delicious buffet, you're all set for a great night to see in the New Year.” For more details and to book tickets:
TARMAC’S MOUNTSORREL Quarry has given a helping hand to the Cleaner Village Project, a local youth-focused community group, with a donation of nearly £400 towards litter picking equipment. The Cleaner Village Project is run by Leicestershire and Rutland Youth and Family Services (LRYFS) – a community based, non-profit organisation that provides youth and community support provision for Mountsorrel. The project started after the first lockdown in 2020 to encourage young people to get active outdoors, while also taking care of the village and the environment. Following its success, the volunteer-led group has attracted interest from the wider community and is now made up of 43 members.
www.mountsorrelmemorialcentre.co.uk
Anthony Marvin, Youth & Community Officer at LRYFS and organiser of the Cleaner Village Project, said: “Due to the success of the project, we were struggling to provide equipment for everyone who wanted to take part. We are very grateful to Mountsorrel Quarry for the
donation, which has allowed us to buy ten sets of new equipment for the volunteers to use. “With our new equipment, we can carry out even more community litter picks and also loan equipment to individuals and families so they can carry out solo picks.” Rob Lees, operations manager at Mountsorrel Quarry, said: “We were impressed to hear about the work LRYFS does to encourage young people to take care of their local area and are proud to be able to support them. “As a business, we’re committed to supporting the local community and hope to get out with the Cleaner Village Project on a litter pick very soon.”
Mountsorrel Museum & Heritage Trust THE MOUNTSORREL Museum and Heritage Trust has resumed its monthly talks at the Mountsorrel Memorial Centre on the second Tuesday of every month. The first one, after the enforced lockdown, was a ‘Virtual Pub Crawl’ presented by Keith Foster and John Doyle. The second was a talk entitled ‘Pat’s Mount-
MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2021
Trouble with your figures? Want someone to walk you through a self assessment?
Let me help get your books in shape… & keep them trim
Linda Kimberley-Brooks (ACMA) Final accounts • Self assessment Taxation • Bookkeeping • VAT Payroll • Management accounts www.twyf-accounts.co.uk Email: Linda@twyf.co.uk
Companies & individuals call now on
0116 23 66 345 A friendly service tailored to your needs
sorrel’ by Pat Neal, and November’s was 'Unusual Place Names' by Dr Julie Attard. The monthly talks will recommence on January 11, with a talk by Mel Gould on Loughborough Carillon, followed on February 8 with a virtual walk around Quorn cemetery. The museum is now open and attracting considerable interest from both Mountsorrel residents and visitors from further afield. The current exhibition, which is intended to run through until at least the spring, is ‘Mountsorrel Green’. It tells the story of the village green, its residents of the past and its industries over the years, and the events that have taken place there. The group are always pleased to hear from residents past and present that have memories or photographs of any aspect of Mountsorrel Green. The museum is open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday during normal library opening times Another first for the group has been with the ‘History Detectives’, an after school club from Christ Church and St
Pic: a plaque mounted on a piece of granite donated by Tarmac
Peters Church Primary School. They have paid a visit to the War Memorial on Castle Hill and then visited the museum to look at the military exhibits on show. The group have for many years maintained the wildlife meadow next to Christ Church. Recently Tarmac donated a
large piece of Granite with a plaque to recognise the work done by the group maintaining the area. The design of the plaque was a joint effort between the local school children, Tarmac and the group. From Mountsorrel Museum & Heritage Trust
9
Rewarding work for council carers online training for the role. County council cabinet lead member for adult social care, councillor Christine Radford, said: “We are expanding our service and we are looking for caring, committed, enthusiastic people, like Fiona. It’s rewarding work and our carers play such an important part in offering short-term support to people who need it. “That support helps them remain happy and independent, by giving them the opportunity, motivation and confidence to relearn or regain some of the skills for daily living, that may have been lost as a result of illness, accident or disability. Anyone interested in a role with HART can call 07593527553 or 0116 3054978 for an informal chat about the job. For further information visit leicestershire.gov.uk, and put Home Care Assistant in the search box.
Fiona Kaye has spoken of the pride she feels having joined a dedicated team of carers who looked after her late mother. HART carers help adults who have recently been discharged from hospital but also support them in staying off the wards in the first place. Fiona said she had been inspired by the help her mum Helen had been offered by Leicestershire County Council’s Home Care Assessment and Reablement Team (HART) to settle back into her house after a spell in hospital last year. Helen’s experience helped persuade Fiona to make a career change and start working for Leicestershire County Council. HART carers, like Fiona, help adults who have recently been discharged from hospital but also support them in staying off the wards in the first place. They also assist people who are disabled or who may have suffered illness, an accident or injury and want to be able to live independently at home. CHARNWOOD CLOG Step Dancers Fiona’s mum Helen, from Sapcote, come to Rothley! was assigned HART carers after her Clog dancing in England emerged own stay in hospital in 2019. during the Industrial Revolution when Fiona said: “Mum was never a big large numbers of young people left the one for fuss and would always say she countryside for the new cities. Times didn’t need help. were hard. They worked in the mills and “But then she started telling me had left behind the rituals of agricultural about this great bunch of girls from life. They had to invent their own enterHART and saying what a difference they tainment: to the rhythm of the weaving were making for her when they came machines and with the sound of their to see her each day. clogs on the newly paved streets. Clog dancing became hugely popular “I had been working in the care during the eighteen hundreds, at the sector for 12 years but thinking about a change and mum said ‘This might be Music Hall, and with lots of competitions. Tap dancing has its origins in clog dancthe perfect job for you’. “She really encouraged me to apply – ing merging in the USA with rhythms from Africa. so I told her I would.” Charnwood Clog Step Dancers formed Sadly, Helen, 81, then fell ill again, in 1977 and have been going strong ever had to return to hospital and sadly since! We dance a wide selection of passed away. traditional styles of step dancing from “She never knew I got the job,” said many parts of the British Isles. The Fiona. sound of the wooden clogs adds precise “But I know she would have been percussion to the rhythm of hornpipes, proud that I did. reels, waltzes and jigs. We practise dur“She told me I would love doing it ing the winter, learn new steps, and and she was right.” teach new dancers. Before Covid-19 we “People do get bored with me saying spent the summers ‘dancing out’ at pubs, how much I love my job, but I’ll continfetes and festivals, as well as putting on ue to tell them – because I do." shows and talks and workshops for Fiona said she loved helping people interested organisations – we hope to be with tasks that most people would find back for all that soon. A particular adbasic but which can be major challeng- vantage of clog dancing is that it can es to those who need care. These can easily be done ‘socially distanced’, which include being able to shower or even makes it a very suitable form of dance make a cup of tea. as we emerge from lockdowns. She is now urging other people to Would you like to learn to clog follow her lead as the HART service dance? We’ll be running our classes and looks to recruit a further 45 carers. practices in Rothley Village Hall on MonFiona said she felt well supported by day evenings 7.30 – 9.30pm from Noher colleagues and managers who guid- vember 2021. We can lend you clogs to 10 ed her through her comprehensive
Pic: carer Fiona Kaye
HANNAH CLARKE FOR ALMSHOUSES The almshouses has a vacancy of a one bedroom flat, well situated with an open outlook over the golf course, and is maintained to a high standard by the Trustees. The property is of a sheltered nature and is suitable for a lady of 60 years plus. It is situated in Park Road, Birstall. Apply to Andrew Atkinson 07973 309 987 or 0116 2675446
Pic: Two Charnwood Clog Step Dancers, Tessa Deville and Joan Harris
get you started. We are a very friendly group and are keen to recruit new members. You can find out more about us on our website www.charnwoodclog.co.uk
or email mail@charnwoodclog.co.uk Or you are welcome to speak to our local Rothley member, Alison, on 01163 484528 to find out more. From Charnwood Clog Step Dancers
DEC 2021
Rothley clog dancing classes
MOUNTSORREL POST
A LEICESTERSHIRE woman was inspired to join HART carers after she saw how they looked after her late mum.
Brave Mountsorrel toddler’s award A COURAGEOUS toddler from Mountsorrel who required lifesaving treatment for an inherited heart condition has received a prestigious charity award. Evelyn Anderton (2) has scooped the British Heart Foundation’s (BHF) Young Heart Hero Award in recognition of her bravery. Evelyn became unwell in September 2020 - and while in hospital, her heartbeat suddenly soared up to a frightening 280 beats per minute. “It was absolutely terrifying,” said mum Emma, aged 39. “Evelyn had been at nursery that day and had been fine, but within 10 minutes of getting home, she suddenly had a really high temperature and was lethargic. She had never been unwell before. “Mother’s instinct just kicked in that something was seriously wrong, so I rang 999.” An ambulance arrived and rushed Evelyn to Leicester Royal Infirmary, where it was discovered that Evelyn’s heartbeat had risen dangerously high. Emma was taken to a family room whilst medics treated Evelyn. Dad John (54) – who only three weeks before was declared to be in remission after six months of chemotherapy for treatment of lymphoma – was unable to attend due to Covid-19 restrictions. Emma said: “It was just a really stressful time, and I was in a state of shock. There were a team of doctors tending to Evelyn – it was a real scene of an emergency. “We were just so worried about what was going to happen to her.” Evelyn was given a drug that helped bring her heart rate back to a normal level. She was then transferred to Glenfield Hospital’s paediatric intensive care unit for further tests. After initially stabilising, Evelyn’s heart rate again increased dramatically, and it was sev-
Pic: (above) Evelyn with mum Emma and dad, John
eral hours before this was brought under control. Several days later, after further tests, doctors confirmed that Evelyn had Brugada syndrome, a genetic condition that can cause life-threatening heart rhythms and lead to a life-threatening cardiac arrest. Consultants from both Glenfield and Birmingham Children’s Hospitals decided that Evelyn would benefit
from a defibrillator device to treat any dangerous heart rhythms. The device was fitted in Evelyn’s abdomen, rather than the usual position in the chest. “The cardiology unit told us that they
had only come across a few cases of someone so young being diagnosed with Brugada syndrome,” added Emma. “The surgeons at Glenfield also said that Evelyn was the smallest person they had given a defibrillator to.” Evelyn spent 17 days in hospital before being able to return home. She will now have to take antiarrhythmic drugs for the long term. Following Evelyn’s diagnosis, Emma and John have been determined to raise awareness of her condition and money towards further research. Through sharing Evelyn’s story, they raised around £4,000 for the BHF – and another £1,000 by walking 100km in a month earlier this year. “We wanted to raise funds for the BHF and awareness of Brugada syndrome and other rare heart conditions, so more research can be done to help stop anyone from losing a loved one,” said Emma. “We really hope that one day, genetic testing will be available for more people, so conditions like Evelyn’s can be picked up sooner.” The family are also thrilled with Evelyn’s award, which was announced at the BHF’s virtual Heart Hero Awards on Wednesday September 29. Emma added: “We were so proud to be told that Evelyn was a winner. “My hopes and dreams for Evelyn are that she leads a happy and normal life and that her condition isn’t going to affect her.” The BHF’s Heart Hero Awards are held each year to recognise the brave individuals who have given so much of their time to beat heartbreak forever. The event showcases inspiring people who have shown courage, resilience, compassion and bravery in the face of adversity, and this year included appearances from celebrity guests, including host Vernon Kay. This year’s event, which was supported by Laerdal Medical, was also held on World Heart Day. Dr Charmaine Griffiths, Chief Executive of the British Heart Foundation, said: “This year’s Heart Hero Awards saw us celebrate the brilliant and inspirational people like Evelyn, who along with her family is helping to raise awareness of inherited heart conditions and vital funds towards our life-saving research."
MOUNTSORREL POST
DEC 2021
TERRY ALLEN
est. 2002
General Property Maintenance Which includes:
Fencing • Guttering Woodwork All other work considered For quotes and details please ring:
Mob: 0776 6755515 0116 212 9344
11
Tour of Mountsorrel quarry I am sure that when you drive on M1, you never think of Mountsorrel. Why should you? Next time, however, think that most of the asphalt on the road is coming from Mountsorrel quarry, the biggest on the UK landmass. Visiting the
·
Mountsorrel Quarry employs 164 members of staff in a variety of roles, including onthe-ground operational jobs and office-based jobs – and indirectly, many more. Tarmac also has offices for support functions in Mountsorrel and Quorn.
·
Over half (52%) of all of the products from Mountsorrel are distributed by railway.
Watermead parkrun THE FIRST parkrun at Watermead Country Park took place on Saturday September 25 The low-key launch of the event attracted 239 runners of all standards. Leicestershire County Council says it has been keen to increase the use of Watermead Park, and the 5km parkrun fits the bill perfectly. Runners of all abilities can now test themselves against a five kilometre course through the beauty spot, near Syston, every Saturday morning at 9am. For many years run Director Dave Snutch has been involved in the popular Watermead Challenge charity run, held there every summer and organised by Wreake Valley Rotary Club. Dave said: “My involvement in Watermead Challenge, at what is such a flat and convenient lakeside location for running, motivated me to get involved with the launch of the Watermead parkrun. Without fabulous volunteers and financial support from so many sources, including Leicestershire County Council, 12 members of five local running clubs,
Leicestershire and Rutland Youth Sailing Association and the Good Gym team, it would not have been possible to get things off the ground”. On hand at the start was Graham Packwood, President of Wreake Valley Rotary Club, (pictured with Dave) to present a defibrillator which will be on hand at the park on run days. Dave added: “Participants decide what they want a parkrun to mean to them. “It might be a casual run, a more competitive challenge or simply a place to catch up with friends and clear the mind. We want people to have fun, stay fit, enjoy the local surroundings, and help to build a lasting parkrun community.” Volunteering opportunities are available. For more information about how you can take part, contact watermeadcountrypark@parkrun.com www.parkrun.org.uk/watermeadcountr ypark/ Pic: Graham Packwood (left), President of Wreake Valley Rotary Club, with race director Dave Snutch
·
·
Products from Mountsorrel are used in the UK’s critical infrastructure, including ballast for railways, asphalt for road surfaces and runways, and concrete for new housebuilding. The granite which is blasted at Mountsorrel is a result of molten rock being forced to the earth’s surface around 450 million years ago, which, over time, slowly came to the surface after millions of years of the slow erosion of the earth’s surface. It produces a strong and very durable aggregate.
be more open days for the public and I will be attending them, hundred per cent.
Specialist Wedding Gown Cleaning Open: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri: 9-5pm Wed & Sat: 9-1pm
MOUNTSORREL POST YOUR INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
Unit 109, Greenacres, The Sidings Leicester LE4 3BR Editor: Mr Jerry Jackson
Editorial/Advertising
0116 4422067 editor@birstallpost.co.uk www.birstallpost.co.uk
DEC 2021
of the quarry to the processing area at the top, at a steep gradient. All staff were very friendly, polite and very knowledgeable. Although I was invited as a County Councillor, I hope that they will
MOUNTSORREL POST
MOUNTSORREL’S COUNTY Councillor is consultant heart surgeon Cllr Leon Hadji-Nikolaou. Leon was recently given a tour of Mountsorrel quarry, and reports below:
quarry has been an exhilarating experience. It is a thriving enterprise that massively supports the local economy with the direct employment of 164 staff. The quarry produces ballast for railways, asphalt for road surfaces and runways, and concrete for new housebuilding. The quarry also subcontracts local support services, providing even more jobs. More than half of the products are transported by railway, mitigating HVG traffic in our villages. I visited the quarry in November, and I was very impressed to see both young men and women driving the gigantic heavy vehicles from the bottom