Mountsorrel Post (79) June 2022

MOUNTSORREL POST YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

JUNE 2022

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 79

Nursery staff walk twenty miles FOUR STAFF from Castle View Day Nursery completed a 20-mile fundraising walk in March.

Council orders flat closed A COUNCIL flat in Mountsorrel has been ordered to close following reports of drug-related anti-social behaviour.

Charnwood Borough Council secured the closure order for the flat in Churchill Road, Mountsorrel on April 6.

The order stops anyone, including the tenant, from entering the property for three months.

Closure orders aim to protect residents and the local community by putting a stop to anti-social behaviour which is taking place in or around the property.

Earlier this year, the Council received reports of drug-related activity taking place at the flat, including drug dealing and drug paraphernalia being taken into the property.

Chloe Headley, Chloe Ricketts, Janine Storer and Yasmin Van-Harris walked from Queniborough to Markfield in aid of Epilepsy Action.

They stopped off at the nursery in Mountsorrel for a much-needed break, where they were cheered on by parents, children and colleagues.

The walk took 9.5 hours and was inspired by a little girl with epilepsy who attends the nursery. Epilepsy has greatly

Continued on page 3

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Pics: (top) Chloe Headley, Chloe Ricketts, Janine Storer and Yasmin Van-Harris; the bake sale; enjoying cake

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affected her day-to-day life, and the girls really wanted to do something to help.

A bake sale at the nursery helped boost the amount raised, which totalled just over £1000.

Missing twins found safe and well The twins turned up in the village the THE MOTHER of two 11-year-old following morning, safe and well. twins that went missing in post, their mother Mountsorrel in May has thanked said:In “Ia Facebook don’t even know where to start! the community for its help look- We are so grateful and want to thank ing for the girls. every single one of you that helped us Gracie and Millie Bennett were reported missing from home on Tuesday May 10, resulting in an appeal by police to the public to help find the girls and a search of the Mountsorrel area overnight.

Tel: 0116 260 7716 Mob: 07770 785400 Email: dave@dave-hutchings.com Website: www.dave-hutchings.com

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"It was the most traumatising experience of our lives, and I hope that nobody has to go through what we did that day! How everyone came together is just heartwarming, the amount of help from the community was overwhelming and hugely appreciated. Thank you so, so much.”

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Pic: Found safe and well: Gracie and Millie Bennett

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Alpine House Surgery 86 Rothley Rd, Mountsorrel, Loughborough LE12 7JU Tel: 0116 216 9947

Navigating your NHS GP services

Pharmacy Referral Scheme We also offer a new Pharmacy Referral Scheme where patients are formerly referred to a local pharmacy for minor problems. Very often minor problems can be dealt with by over the counter remedies and there is no need for an appointment to be made with the surgery. A trained pharmacist will telephone you to discuss your 2

EXTERNAL SERVICES PATIENTS CAN ACCESS In addition to appointments within the surgery, there are lots of other external services that patients can access for help, as follows:

Social Prescribing Team What is Social Prescribing? Many things affect your Health and Wellbeing.

GPs tell us that a lot of people visit them feeling isolated or lonely. Or they might be stressed by work, money, and housing problems. Sometimes it's the stress of managing different long-term conditions, managing at home or being a carer. There are lots of things that can impact on your physical and mental health or wellbeing. A lot of these concerns cannot always be "fixed" with medication alone. Sometimes you need someone to listen and work with you to find the solution.

That's where social prescribing comes in. From your conversation and thoughts or concerns someone from your practice can refer you for support. It starts with a conversation about what matters to you, with a Social Prescriber.

The link worker is there to listen to you, and put you in touch with the people and activities that might help you to feel better or find solutions to any of your difficulties or concerns. We can support you to make positive changes in your life which will improve your health

There are some services that patients can access themselves directly (self refer) without contacting the GP Surgery, as follows: Mental Health & Wellbeing Vitaminds (Vita Health Group) Self Referral VitaMinds can help to improve your Mental Health and Wellbeing.

Are you experiencing:Excessive worry Low mood Depression Anxiety A lack of motivation VitaMinds is a talking therapy service, known as IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies). It is FREE and CONFIDENTIAL. All therapies can be provided via secure video, text-based therapy, webinar, phone or face to face (one to one or group).

If you are over 16 and live in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland VitaMinds can support you by providing the tools you need to get life back on track.

GET HELP NOW by phoning 0330 094 5595. You do not have to contact the surgery, you can self refer on this number. You can also collect a leaflet containing this information from our reception.

Monday - Friday 8.00am - 8.00pm and Saturdays 9.00am - 12.30pm Physio: Self Referral Physiotherapy Service (NHS Trust) This service is available for self referral. To book an initial telephone consultation with a physiotherapist please call their booking centre on 0300 300 0046 Monday to Friday 9.00am - 4.00pm.

Get Help to Quit Smoking - Self Referral You are four times more likely to stop smoking if you have support from a stop smoking service. For quit smoking support call or chat online to our friendly stop smoking advisor on 0345 646 6666 or visit www.quitready.co.uk

Charity for Patients outside of the Mountsorrel Area In addition to the Mountsorrel Community Support Fund Charity (info @mountsorrelcsf.org.uk), please note we do have details of another charity for patients who live in other areas within our surgery catchment area. If you feel you are in need, hardship or distress please contact the surgery's email address alpine.house@nhs.net for the attention of Andrea McGarry Ass. Practice Manager, in the first instance.

JUNE 2022

They are all fully trained to deal with a wide variety of problems and can prescribe independently or will have access to a GP for prescriptions if required. This means that it is not always necessary for you to speak directly to a GP. Once our reception team have a brief description of your problem, they will book your appointment with the most appropriate clinician. Reception have received in-depth training to signpost patients to lots of additional helpful internal and external services.

Therefore, although reception only ask for a brief description of your problem, the more information you are comfortable to give to reception, the better they can help you navigate your patient journey.

Rest assured that our paramedics, advanced nurse practitioners and minor illness nurses are all highly skilled, qualified and competent clinicians, but do have immediate access to a GP if further advice is needed. By signposting correctly, this ensures that our GP appointments are used appropriately for patients who have more complex issues and needs such as complex long term conditions, cancer and end of life care.

problem and will invite you into the pharmacy to be seen face to face if appropriate. You may be recommended an over the counter remedy that you can purchase yourself. It is unlikely that a minor problem would warrant a prescription in any event. Please contact reception with a brief description of the problem and a referral can be made straight away.

When you call please make sure you:Have your NHS number and mobile/home number available plus details of any medication you are taking.

When you speak to the Booking Centre, they will ask you for some basic information and agree a time and date for your telephone appointment. You will be asked about your symptoms and your medical history.

This may take up to 30 minutes. If a further appointment is required then this will be discussed and may take place by phone, by video or face to face.

Please Note: This is NOT appropriate for treatment in your home, under 16 years old, breathing problems, continence issues, stroke or other neurological conditions. For these problems, a GP will need to make a referral to a different service.

MOUNTSORREL POST

At Alpine House we are proud of our diverse and highly skilled clinical team. We are committed to providing you with the best possible health care for your needs. However in order for us to do this it is essential that you speak to or see the most appropriate clinician for your problem.

Diverse & Highly Skilled and wellbeing.

You may not be aware, but alongYour Social Prescriber can work with side our traditional GP appointments, Clinical Team you to identify your non-medical needs you can also consult with our Paraand support you to access the right medic Team, Advanced Nurse PractiParamedic Team services for you. tioners, Minor Illness Nurses and If you think the service may help you Advanced Nurse in-house Pharmacists. or someone you care for, or to find out Practitioners more, please ask any member of staff at your GP practice.

Minor Illness Nurses In-House Pharmacists PATIENT SELF REFERRAL GPs

Fabulous fun filled village event returns THE MOUNTSORREL REVIVAL is back on Sunday August 14!

MOUNTSORREL POST

JUNE 2022

The Mountsorrel REVIVAL is a fabulous fun-filled day for all the family spread across many locations around the centre of the village.

The REVIVAL is a not-for-profit event run by volunteers. Thanks to the continued generosity of local businesses and the Mountsorrel Parish Council, the organisers say they have been able to plan a packed programme for 2022.

Caroline Moss from the Mountsorrel Community Team (MCT) said: “There’s lots of fun for all the family with different music, shows, competitions, fancy dress, the ever-popular dog show, birds of prey, stalls, rides and attractions and plenty of activities for all ages.

“Keep an eye on our website themct.co.uk/whats-on and our Mountsorrel Community Team Facebook page as we start to reveal a full list of what’s on.

You can also find out how you can be a part of REVIVAL. Would you or your organisation like to be part of our grand parade? Find how to enter the many competitions, including baking, photography, fancy dress, dog show, best business window and much more.”

Not only is August 14 the Mountsorrel REVIVAL, it’s also the same weekend Continued from page 1 Council officers visited the property to carry out a number of checks and, when entering the flat, discovered cannabis being grown inside. Police also attended the scene.

The Council worked with partners to gather the evidence required to successfully obtain the closure order at Leicester Magistrates’ Court.

The Council will now consider any further action which can be taken in relation to the tenant.

If serious nuisance is caused to local residents, closure orders can be used to prevent people from entering the premises and stop the anti-social behaviour. If anyone breaches the order and enters the property, they can be fined or face a prison sentence, depending upon the circumstances.

Council tenants are responsible for their behaviour as well as the behaviour of visitors to the property.

Cllr James Poland, lead member for public housing, said: “This is the third closure order the Council has secured this year. I hope it clearly shows we will not shy away from taking action against those demonstrating disruptive behaviour and causing a nuisance in our communities.

“The Council is committed to working with partners to make our towns and villages safer, and I would like to thank all of those involved in securing this latest closure order.

“If anyone is experiencing anti-social behaviour, I would ask them to please report it to us so we can look into it.”

The closure order will remain in place until July 6, 2022.

Local residents with concerns about anti-social behaviour can report them on the Council’s website at www.charnwood.gov.uk/asb.

Stonehurst Farm has its 1940s event.

“It really is going to be a fun-filled weekend all over the village with lots to see and do,” said Caroline.

For the Mountsorrel REVIVAL to happen and for the safety of all visitors, there will be special arrangements for road closures and parking. Please check the website (the-mct.co.uk) for full details of times, precise locations and reasons for the closures.

Caroline said: “We would strongly advise all attendees to arrive on foot if

possible. If this is not possible general parking will be signposted on the Tarmac car park for £2 per car, with all proceeds going towards the Mountsorrel Scouts and the REVIVAL organisation.

Blue Badge parking will also be available on the Continued on page 4

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If you are interested in an advert email media@the-mct.co.uk or call 07949 081 866

We understand that people experience times which can be tough. If you need help, if you are in financial need or physical hardship, please contact us.

Find out more at mountsorrelcsf.org.uk Contact us: 07931 129360 info@mountsorrelcsf.org.uk Follow us: Charity number: 217615

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Working name of the Mountsorrel Relief in Need Charity

JUNE 2022

and appearing on our website for the following year and Facebook page. Standard adverts cost £29 and are 58mm wide by 36mm high in colour. For larger adverts or sponsorship please contact

MOUNTSORREL POST

Tarmac car park and the Mountsorrel Memorial Centre car park.

Road Closures: In summary, Watling Street, Sileby Road and the Green will be closed for safety reasons from 10am to 5pm. The old main road from Bond Lane along the old A6 to the Green will be closed during the Parade and Fun Run from noon to 12.40pm. Buses which normally use the Green and Rothley Road will be diverted along Leicester Road and Bier Way. One bus in each direction scheduled during the parade will use the bypass and Bier Way. Volunteers Did you know that behind-the-scenes REVIVAL is organised by very small number of people, and without the support of volunteers on the day, it could not happen? If you can offer an hour or two of your time, before, during or after the event The MCT would love to hear from you. Complete a volunteer form at: the-mct.co.uk/volunteer-to-help Advertising Support the Mountsorrel REVIVAL with an advert in the FREE A5 programme distributed to over 2,000 people

New Mayor THE NEW Mayor of Charnwood says she is proud to represent the borough after being sworn in at a council meeting.

A MOUNTSORREL pub is in the process of setting up a microbrewery thanks to a Covid-19 business grant from Charnwood Borough Council.

The Swan Inn in Mountsorrel plans to open the microbrewery later this year after successfully applying to the Council for the Business Development and Diversification Fund.

The fund provided a grant of up to £5,000 to help eligible businesses diversify their business model or enable safer working practices.

The popular village pub used the grant towards the cost of renovating a small space at the pub and fitting it out with beer brewing equipment, enabling the pub to produce its own beer.

Danny Harwood, the landlord at The Swan Inn said: “The past two years have been incredibly difficult for our business and the hospitality sector.

“Alongside having to close the pub for a period of time, the supply of beer was another challenge we faced when we reopened and in particular cask ale proved really difficult to get hold of.

“By creating a microbrewery on site, it means we can deal with beer production in house, decide on how much we need and also add another dimension to the business.

“I can’t thank the Council enough for providing clear information and distributing the business grants as quickly as

Pic: Danny Harwood, landlord of The Swan Inn and Cllr Shona Rattray, the Council's lead member for business support

possible during the pandemic.”

Since April 2020, the Council has administered a total of £58 million in Government funding to over a thousand local businesses across the borough.

Cllr Shona Rattray, the Council’s lead member for business support said: “This is a great example of the positive impact that Covid-19 business grants have had on local businesses.

“The Swan Inn is a popular pub in Mountsorrel and it’s great to see they have used one of the grants they have

been eligible for to expand their business by developing “We know how tough it has been for local businesses and I’m so pleased we’ve been able to support so many different businesses through Government funding.

“We worked incredibly hard to distribute the funding to eligible firms as quickly and securely as possible and we’re committed to continuing working with businesses to help them recover from the impact of the pandemic.”

MOUNTSORREL POST

JUNE 2022

Cllr Jennifer Tillotson was voted in as the borough‘s first citizen at the Council’s Annual Meeting on Monday May 23.

Cllr Tillotson will be representing the borough at hundreds of events over the next year with her consort, husband Mr John Tillotson.

The Mayor said: “It is a hugely proud moment for myself and my family to be chosen to represent this fantastic borough.

“I look forward to meeting so many new people over the next 12 months to see the hard work that they are doing in the community. Hopefully, we can make a positive difference across Charnwood.”

Cllr Tillotson grew up in Lancashire before moving to Loughborough with her husband John in 1976.

Pub starts brewing its own beer

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YOUR SAY... Noticeboard all details printed free Mug & Mingle Communi-tea social group that is open to everyone.

The idea behind Mug & Mingle is to help tackle the social isolation faced by many within the community and the various issues that come along with it, by getting

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 email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk

Many thanks to all of you who attended the Singing For Fun concert at the Mountsorrel Memorial Hall on Friday May 20. It was a very enjoyable and successful evening and you will be pleased to know the retiring collection for Cancer Research amounted to £1,220. Huge thanks to all who contributed.

Many thanks, Pauline Needham

together for a lovely cuppa, a couple of biscuits or slice of cake and a nice chat with others from around the village.

The sessions are a time to seek information and support with any issues or concerns people may have and if staff present can’t support, we will find best place for that individual.

We currently hold Mug & Mingle every Wednesday and Saturday from 11am to 1pm at the Parish Rooms on Little Lane, and we have a nice groups of regulars attending but we can certainly accommodate more.

We have a variety of teas to suite different tastes along with coffee including decaf.

Sessions are free of charge,

but we do accept donations if people are able to Mountsorrel School

Summer Fete 11am-2pm, Sat July 2 If you think you may like to donate something to our raffle, have a stall to promote your business or volunteer to help us to organise or run things on the day PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE get in touch! We can’t do this without you!

Psfamountsorrel

Brass Band Concert Ratby Daytime Band Present for your entertainment a performance of popular music – a Daytime Concert! at Birstall Methodist Church 1.30-2.15pm, Wed Jun 29 Please come along and enjoy the performance. No Admission Charge but there will be an opportunity to make a voluntary donation to the DEC Ukraine charity

Birstall Flower Club Weds June 22, 7:15pm Birstall Village Hall Demonstrator: Marie Bradley Title: From India with Love Visitors welcome £5 Queries to Sylvia 0116 267 4206 or Carol 0116 267 1437 Do you have a

Lung Condition Breathe Easy Loughborough have recommenced meeting.

You are invited to join our local support, friendship and information group for people with lung disease, their carers, and friends at Gorse Covert Community Centre, Loughborough.

The group meets monthly on the third Thursday 2–4pm We also organise a Gentle Exercise Class Every Thursday 1-2pm For more information, please contact Rhoda Andrews 0116 2362583

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MOUNTSORREL POST

Saturday June 18 School Lane playing field Admission to the event is free, and the fairground will start the ball rolling by opening at 11am.

The live performances will start from mid-day up until 7pm. There will then be a short interval while the stage is prepared for the ‘Proms in the Park’ event, which will start at 7:30pm.

In this special jubilee year for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the ‘Proms’ music will be chosen to reflect this. The event will conclude with a firework display finale at 10pm (weather permitting).

There will be a number of charity, private and trade stalls on the field and several new free attractions for all ages to enjoy.

Organised by Birstall Parish Council

JUNE 2022

Birstall Gala

MOUNTSORREL POST

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JUNE 2022

Build your own car for Soapbox race RACE TEAMS are being invited to take part in the Soapbox race at this August’s Mountsorrel REVIVAL. Race organiser Ian Shonk said: “As one of the 'cornerstones' of the Mountsorrel REVIVAL, the Soapbox Track is always crowded with spectators watching the racing action. Now it’s time to start building your race car!”

The Mountsorrel Revival is holding the 7th annual festival and Soapbox Race on Sunday August 14, and entries for this year's racing are already open.

Teams may be groups of friends, families, school, college or company works teams.

The event is organised by the 2017 Red Bull Soapbox Champions - so they know a little about putting on a great show!

Ian said: “Check out the video to see the action at the track - and what you're getting yourselves into! The race teams set up in the pit area in the morning then join the parade through the village before the racing starts. With three runs at the track, each team get a chance to show off to the crowd - and set a fastest time.

“Each team is 'clocked' on the home straight by the local Police who issue speeding tickets to drivers!”

Each year custom made trophies are presented for: Fastest Time Best Build Spirit of the Revival The Revival Racing team can offer advice on building your own car, or have some ready-made ex-race cars for sale. Ian said: “We're always happy to advise and help, or we can even build you one if you're too lazy to do it yourself!”

from the Box Cart" the monthly newsletter for race teams and fans.

Find it on the Mountsorrel Community This year's track band is 'Union State Hands' playing Rock & Blues to entertain the crowd before and after the racing.

Check out the latest issue of "Tales

Team website.

For more information and entry forms, visit "Mountsorrel Revival" or Google "Revival Racing Mountsorrel" for

the racing video.

Any questions - just call: Ian 07940 511449

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MOUNTSORREL POST

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Youth work in village is expanding LEICESTERSHIRE & Rutland Youth and Family Services continue to deliver services to the people of Mountsorrel, from children and teens to families and the wider community.

Youth Worker Anthony Marvin reports: In March, we opened two new projects that we had to delay due to Covid. These projects are Phoenix Young Peoples Project, an after-school group for local young people aged 8-11 years.

We managed to come to an agreement to rent out the Green Room and small auditorium at the Mountsorrel Memorial Centre. The group has proven to be very popular, with between 25-33 attending every week, which has meant we have had to rent out additional space at the Mountsorrel Memorial Centre (MMC) to accommodate.

Young people enjoy such activities as pool, Xbox, arts & crafts, giant Jenga, giant Connect 4, swing ball, soft archery and even movie sessions in which we show new films age-appropriate to the group.

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MOUNTSORREL POST

JUNE 2022

And lots more!

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OPENING TIMES Mon-Sat 9am to 5pm Sunday: closed Please note these times may change during public holidays. Ring us for details.

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We have a wide selection of products are located at The Pavilion on at our tuck shop with a good mix that the Memorial Fields. will suit all tastes.

Young people will be able to Sessions are FREE of charge, but we enjoy various activities including accept voluntary donations from parents pool, Xbox, music, movies, if they feel they can. sports, and arts & crafts.

Before the Easter half term, we proThere are snacks and drinks vided each young person with a free healthy choice lunch bag and easter egg. available from the tuck shop, and there will be hot food availAnother group we opened in March able going forward. was our Mug & Mingle, Communi-tea Sessions are free of charge to all social group that is open to everyone. young people attending.

The idea behind Mug & Mingle is to We continue to carry out our longhelp tackle the social isolation faced by standing projects within the village, inmany within the community, and the cluding our Reach Out project, supportvarious issues that come along with it, ing young people around the streets of by getting together for a lovely cuppa, a couple of biscuits or a slice of cake, and the village on various nights throughout the week, which is having positive ena nice chat with others from around the gagement from the young people. village.

Our young carers project, Sorrel The sessions are a time to seek inforYoung Carers, runs every two weeks mation and support with any issues or from the MMC, which is a vital service concerns people may have, and if staff for those who attend. These young peopresent can’t support, we will find the ple are doing an amazing job at caring best place for that individual. for a loved one, so these sessions are We currently hold Mug & Mingle here to give them a space to be themevery Wednesday and Saturday from selves, relax, talk freely and get support 11am to 1pm at the Parish Rooms on from trained professionals. We like to Little Lane. We have a nice group of give them experiences that will enrich regulars attending, but we can certainly them and give them experiences to reaccommodate more. member, such as our recent outing to We have a variety of teas to suit different tastes, along with coffee, includ- the theatre to see Little Shop of Horrors which they really enjoyed. ing decaf.

Our Cleaner Village project continues Sessions are free of charge, but we to run across the village, with litter pickdo accept donations if people are able ing kits being loaned monthly at around to.

15 per month. Nearly 60 bags of litter Along with our already running new have been collected and recycled by our projects, we have restarted our centrepickers over March and April. based youth session for those aged 11Along with this, our Cleaner River 16 within the village.

This session was unfortunately paused Project canoe has been taken out almost every week to help clean the River Soar, due to health and safety issues with the which has bought in around 40 bags of venue, but with the nights now being lighter, we can open again with a couple recyclable litter over the past couple of of changes. Firstly the name is now Phoe- months.

With thanks to Mountsorrel Parish nix @ The Pavilion, and secondly the Council, Tarmac and other donors, our time, which is now 6:30 to 8:30pm. We

projects continue to run, and go from strength to strength.

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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 10

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

ers to pick up after their dogs. Our dog warden does a wonderful job, but there is only so much she can do. We ask all residents to please be responsible dog owners and pick up after their pet.

We have had some requests for more bins, and we will be doing a consultation exercise later in the summer, which will include asking people where they would like to see more bins.

If this comes out as a priority, then we can allocate the funding to do it. The same with grit bins for the winter.

Car Parking We have now installed some news signs at the MMC car park advising shoppers and business users that we do have a much larger car park at Little Lane where there is not a one-hour maximum stay. It is hoped that this will ease the parking situation in the village centre.

Highways Fund The County Council Highways Fund Initiative has allocated £12,500 to the village, and our priorities are for a pedestrian crossing at the school and vehicle activated speed signs. These are still being considered, but the good news is that the money will be carried forward into next year.

Remembrance I was again honoured to attend and represent the council at the annual British Legion Remembrance Day Services. I would like to thank all those involved in the preparations for it.

This year we managed to have a very successful Christmas lights switch-on and were able to provide some new lights for the trees on The Green. If funds allow, we are looking at some more new lights for this year.

Crime Thankfully our crime figures remain pretty low, and I would like to thank our local police colleagues and vigilant residents for their efforts in trying to keep our village safe.

Revival We missed you in 2021, but we are very excited to report that it will be very much part of our village tradition this year. Our thanks go to the community team for their efforts in putting on another great day out for everyone.

Cemetery The cemetery mapping project is in its final stages of completion. All the records have been entered onto a database. The maps are being prepared and a handover is planned, so that the new system can be used by council staff.

Memorial Centre I am very pleased to report that we have now agreed on a three year business plan for the centre. We have successfully secured the employment of a new Centre Manage; James Nelson. James comes to us from Loughborough Town Hall and with his knowledge and help, once Covid restrictions were lifted, we were able to fully re-open the centre. We have also been able to employ other staff for the centre. Michelle, our café supervisor, has worked hard alongside James to open the café, and as demand grew has increased the food and drinks offering. Both the centre and the café are proving very popular and are being well used. It is wonderful to see this activity, and we must acknowledge the dedication of our staff from the centre, in all capacities, for their input into making it a success. We hope to begin preparations for our wedding garden in the next financial year.

JUNE 2022

THE PLANNING and Policy committee well and is used by more people than used the community fridge at the council meeting met on January 11. offices.

Police reported that in December It was reported that the first three 2021, there had been two vehicle crimes, four thefts, three burglaries (home), two months of the memorial centre café had been successful. criminal damage, and two reports of Four councillors were appointed as antisocial behaviour. interim directors of the proposed comThe Planning and Policy Committee munity interest company at the Mountmet on February 7.

The police report for January 22 was: sorrel Memorial Centre.

A meeting of Mountsorrel Parish vehicle theft 2, from vehicle 3, theft from Council was held on March 15. shops 3, theft from garden 1, theft of Councillor James Kendrick was welposts and rope from Mountsorrel cricket comed to the meeting; he was co-opted club 1, burglary 1, antisocial behaviour to fill a casual vacancy on February 8.

1.

It was reported a deputy parish manThe Finance and General purposes ager has been appointed. committee met on January 17.

In public participation, some resiThe job description and recruitment dents were present from Little Lane and process for a deputy parish manager Grape’s Garden Close to ask questions were approved. about the rent charge for residents of The Project and Amenities Committee these unadopted roads. It was agreed met on January 24. that the rent charge is collected from It was reported that Halstead Park car park potholes had been filled in with 2022 onwards. This charge pays for the maintenance of the road. The arrears, hardcore provided by Tarmac and going back six years, will be written off. spread by the football clubs.

The cemetery gate has been repaired, There is currently £5000 in the fund for any necessary repairs. The council will and quotes are being sought for a new explore the adoption of the road by the footpath at the cemetery.

Maintenance work on the War Memo- County Council.

The council intends to recruit more rial is scheduled for April. The floodvolunteers for the library and to extend lights and the lights on the cross have the opening hours, and the range of already been replaced. activities.

Councillors received a report on the At the annual meeting of the parish Halstead Road/Cufflins Park project. An council on May 16, Councillor Kate Walkoutline planning application is expected to be submitted before the end of Febru- er was elected chairman for the ensuing year, and Councillor Beth Benner was ary. elected vice-chairman.

It was agreed to take responsibility for the maintenance of a new vehicle activated speed sign on Granite Way. MOUNTSORREL PARISH Council held its It was agreed to meet with representa- annual parish meeting on April 21 in tives from Tarmac to discuss the designs the auditorium of the Mountsorrel Mefor a replacement beacon and to work morial Centre. with village community groups in prepaChairman of Mountsorrel Parish Counration for the celebration of the Queen’s cil Kate Walker presented a report on the Jubilee. activities of the parish council over the It was agreed to provide a defibrillapast year. She said: tor outside the pavilion on Halstead Park We have successfully recruited a Depuat a cost of £500 – £700. ty Parish Manager and Finance Officer.

It was agreed to increase cemetery We are also in the middle of a full staffing review, this was highlighted as an area charges by 10% from April 2022, and a requiring attention in our Governance further 10% in 2023/24. A decision on Review allotment charges was deferred pending Two new councillors were co-opted; the outcome of a discussion with allotCllr Chris Berry and James Kendrick. ment holders.

I am pleased to report that we have The Memorial Centre Committee met received grants from CBC of £3000 for on February 28. our new noticeboards at the MMC and a Memorial Centre manager James £4000 business support grant for the Nelson presented a report. He said that MMC. there was a good balance of community Granite Way use and commercial use at present. The We will soon be getting new vehicle Your Store (food bank) is working very activated signs on Granite Way, paid for

by Tarmac to help efforts to slow down the speed of traffic using this road.

Trees We conducted a long-awaited tree survey and discovered that we actually have some 4000 trees. Following the survey, some remedial work was identified and is currently being carried out.

Halstead Rd/Cufflins Park We are in the final stages of finalising the land transfer required for the development of the land and the project commonly known as Halstead Road/Cufflins Park. This proposed project is a large development, and it is important that we understand the need, costs and benefits before we embark on it. To do this, we will be implementing a detailed feasibility study for the whole project and it will be important for residents to give their views on it. I would urge you all to come on board and tell us what your thoughts are.

Library The County Council still provide the library services to us, but we are about to finalise a new model for running the library, which will mean we can have better opening times, and more activities.

War Memorial This was in need of some repair, and I must thank Tarmac for their help with this and for attending to the lights on the cross. This work will take place in the next few months and last us for many years to come.

Tarmac has also very kindly offered to work with us on the re-design and refurbishment of our beacon in readiness for the Platinum Jubilee celebrations Jubilee Plans are taking place for a host of celebrations for the Platinum Jubilee. The Community team are heading up the planning of several street parties, and it is hoped that we will celebrate this momentous occasion in many ways, which, of course, will go down in history. Events are planned at the MMC, along with the lighting of the beacon.

Youth Service We continue to support the excellent work of Anthony Marvin and his youth services team in the work they do for the young people of the village. Anthony has also recently started a new ‘Mug and Mingle’ service where anyone can call into the parish rooms on Wednesday or Saturday morning for a coffee and a chat.

We are in discussions with Homefield College to help us with gardening and painting projects in the village, all of which will help to brighten up the village, as well as provide training. This has the potential to be a very successful partnership.

Dog Fouling Dog Fouling continues to be a serious problem, despite continual pleas for own-

MOUNTSORREL POST

Parish Council notes

Quarry Best friends are now neighbours donation fills potholes TARMAC’S MOUNTSORREL Quarry has helped a local football club shore up its defences against vehicle damage by donating material to fill in potholes in its car park.

In a bid to revive a dilapidated car park at Mountsorrel Juniors Football Club, the business donated a much-needed five tonnes of gravel.

Mark Forknall, treasurer and club secretary at Mountsorrel Juniors FC, said: “The Halstead Road car park was becoming a bit treacherous due to the potholes, so we are extremely grateful to Tarmac for donating the gravel to fill them in.

“We really are an all-inclusive club with more than 350 young players from four-year-olds right up to under 18s, including girls’ football and 50 or so volunteer coaches.

“The car park is often oversubscribed which is a mark of the success of the club but it is essential to provide space for players’ families and supporters.”

Rob Lees, area operations manager at Mountsorrel Quarry, said: “Mountsorrel Juniors FC is as much a fabric of the local community as Tarmac, and we are keen to support them where we can.”

TWO BEST friends were over the moon when they found out they were also to become next-door neighbours.

Pals Mariam Forman, 92, and Una Markham, 79, were fearful they may become separated when the care home where they were living closed down.

But the friends were ecstatic to hear that not only were they moving together to Mountview care home in Rothley, but that home manager Stacie Weaver had managed to find them adjacent rooms.

The new neighbours celebrated on their first morning with a special candlelit breakfast for two, which Una compared to 'the Ritz.'

The friends, though 13 years apart in age, share a similar sense of humour, a rural Leicestershire childhood and a strong work ethic throughout their younger lives.

Mariam previously owned Whitehouse Farm in Stapleton, with her husband

John, to whom she was married for 57 years until he passed away in 2007. She worked on the farm for over 40 years, where they produced cereal, poultry and eggs. She has one child, two grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Una was born in Bagworth and lived in Queniborough with her husband Jeffrey for over 40 years until he passed away in 2008. She worked in light engineering.

Stacie Weaver, home manager, Mountview, which is operated by Ideal Carehomes, said: "Una and Mariam's friendship is very special and we are delighted to be able to help it to continue. They have not known each other for very long - only a matter of months - but it's obvious to everyone how deep their friendship runs and how much they enjoy each other's company.

"To be able to bring them to Mountview and keep their friendship strong means the world to us."

Una said: "When I saw my bedroom I

couldn't believe it - it was very posh!

"Our candlelit breakfast with music, looking out over the gardens was like being at the Ritz.

"We are settling in very well together.”

Mariam said: "It’s just perfect. Everyone is so friendly and prompt. I don’t need to press my call bell. It’s such a lovely place. What have we done to deserve this?

"It’s very different here, and that’s all I can really say. Everyone is so nice.

“And the tablecloths are such a nice touch - the last time we had tablecloths was at Christmas!"

Mountview is a purpose-built luxury residential and dementia care home operated by Ideal Carehomes. With 66 ensuite bedrooms, it has secure, landscaped gardens and a full and varied activities programme. It is rated good by the Care Quality Commission.

Pic: friends Mariam (left)and Una at Rothley’s Mountview care home

Outdoor fitness MOUNTSORREL POST

JUNE 2022

OUTDOOR FITNESS sessions take place in Mountsorrel five times a week, led by local fitness instructor Hayley Phillips.

9.00am - 9.45am

She said: “I’ve received many comments from members that our sessions have really helped them mentally and emotionally, as well as physically, and it’s been brilliant seeing people grow fitter and stronger.

“Many members had not exercised much, if at all, in the past, but since Covid, it has really hit home how important good physical health is. It’s lovely too that my members have made new friends or reconnected with old friends. It really is a great

community to be part of.”

Hayley (pictured inset, above) worked in the fitness industry for over 18 years, teaching group fitness classes at Soar Valley Leisure Centre. She launched Hayley Phillips Fitness four years ago after leaving her office-based job of 21 years to qualify as a personal trainer.

Hayley said: “I absolutely love going to work and seeing so many people from all walks of life each day, coming together, having a laugh whilst keeping fit and well.”

You can contact Hayley on 07715 642079.

11

Visitors welcomed to Mountsorrel quarry TARMAC’S MOUNTSORREL Quarry recently opened its doors to the local community, giving them the opportunity to see inside one of the largest operational quarries in Europe.

Taking place over two weekends, the quarry welcomed around 3,000 visitors over the four-day event.

During the visit, guests had the chance to find out more about the quarry before embarking on a guided tour through the site to a purpose-built viewing platform where they could admire the full magnitude of the quarry, along with having a look at some of the giant vehicles used to transport the rock around the site.

Tarmac experts – including geologists, chemists, engineers, logistics, and sus-

tainability – were on hand throughout the event to answer any questions visitors had.

Rob Lees, operations manager at Mountsorrel Quarry, said: “The whole team at the quarry took great pleasure in welcoming visitors to the site to show them what we do. It was lovely to hear feedback from guests on what a great time they’d had and how they felt they now better understood our business and operations so much more.

“We hope that everyone who attended enjoyed the event as much as we did.”

Local resident, Katie Singleton, contacted the quarry after attending the event. She said: “We all thoroughly enjoyed it from the eight-year-old daughter to the 66-year-old grandma!! We would definitely come again and would recommend it to anyone.”

Pic: visitors appreciating the size of the quarry

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

WREAKE VALLEY Rotary Club are holding their twelfth Watermead Challenge charity run, sponsored this year by Dunelm, on Tuesday July 5, 2022 at 7pm.

Race Director, Dave Snutch, said: “This ever popular run attracted about 600 entrants last year. The relatively flat route around the lakes of Watermead Country Park suits runners of all abilities and offers the opportunity to achieve a personal best time.”

To enter please, visit www.evententry.co.uk. Further details can also be found at www.wreakevalleyrotary.org.uk.

It was a very successful weekend with a record number of visitors and a record amount raised for the Air Ambulance – over £3600.

Our chosen charity continues to be Leicestershire Air Ambulance, and we hope to help them raise some muchneeded funds. Like many charities, they have suffered over the last year.

We put a number of measures in place to keep visitors and garden owners safe from Covid last year, which worked well. Covid is still with us, so we may need to do so again this year.

0116 4422067 The September issue of the

editor@birstallpost.co.uk www.birstallpost.co.uk 12

MOUNTSORREL POST will be published on Sep 17.

The copy deadline is Sep 2 .

Gardens will be open from 2 – 6pm on both days, June 25 & 26. Tickets

are £5 each (accompanied children and wheelchair users free) and will be valid for both days. They can be purchased on the day from any of the signposted open gardens. Look for the fuchsia-coloured balloons!

Tea and cake will be available at various locations, and some gardens will be selling plants.

We have a number of very varied gardens for you to visit across the two villages: some large, some small, some immaculate, some very much less so!

Some are new gardens, and some have taken part before. But all for you to enjoy.

It is often said how welcoming our gardeners are, and they would love you to come and see all their hard work.

Why not put the date in your diary now, then come along with your family and friends to support this great community event, and help us raise money for a very worthwhile cause.

For more information about this event, please have a look at our website www.tcog.org.uk or contact Linda on 0116 2363872 or email linda@tcog.org.uk We look forward to seeing you.

MOUNTSORREL POST

Charity run

LAST YEAR saw the return of the Thurcaston and Cropston Open Gardens after a year off due to Covid.

JUNE 2022

Open gardens event