MOUNTSORREL POST Staff & YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER Delivered
to Mountsorrel, four times a year
DECEMBER 2010
ISSUE No. 33
Pic: Prints of this watercolour by a local artist are being sold to raise funds for the project
Project on track VOLUNTEERS FROM the Mountsorrel Railway Project have celebrated their third birthday. The project aims to restore the ‘Mountsorrel Railway’, which was built in 1896 by Earl Lanesborough of Swithland Hall, to serve the granite quarries around the Mountsorrel. Spokesman Steve Cramp explains: “At the beginning of October volunteers from the local area came together to celebrate the project's 3rd birthday, not with the usual
Pic: Loughborough University volunteers
raising of glasses but in typical project fashion by organising the largest work party the project had ever seen! In all over 70 volunteers turned out to work on different areas of restoration along the full 1.25 mile length of the trackbed. Our regular volunteer team was boosted by
Continued on page 2 Mountsorrel Post DECEMBER 2010, page 1
funding in place MOUNTSORREL’S YOUTH café on The Green has appointed a full time youth worker. Sarah Bibb was appointed in September. She said: “I am really excited to be appointed as the youth worker for the Sorrel Youth café and can’t wait to get started. “I think that the main function of the project will be to provide support and care for local young people through any issues and difficulties they may face. Crucially, the café will provide them with a Pic: Youth worker Sarah Bibb safe place to hang out and chat with their friends – a place they can call their own.” In the near future the café aims to be open four afternoons and evenings a week, and is Continued on page 3
Continued from page 1 a visit from 48 volunteer students from Loughborough University as part of the university's ‘Action’ initiative aimed at getting their students out into the community and volunteering to help local projects. Volunteers split into five groups enabling restoration work to start on the bridge at Bond Lane, a second group tackled the repair of track side drainage, a third group were fencing the line side near to Wood Lane, a fourth group were studying the ecology around the area of the old Nunckley Hill quarry with a view to developing further educational possibilities. The fifth and final group were tackling the annual task of trimming back the line side vegetation. It was great to see the project alive with so much activity. We are pleased to say that some of the uni students were so impressed by our efforts to date that they have started coming each week to help out!
New tip MOUNTSORREL’S NEW waste and recycling facility opened on November 29. The Mountsorrel site, on Granite Way, replaces the facility at Sileby which will close in early December. The opening hours are 8am-8pm April to October, 8am-6pm November to March, seven days a week. Closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day
Much is planned for the coming months. Fund raising has reached a point where we are almost ready to lay a further 200m of track, which will effectively mean that 1/6 of the route will have track laid. Work over the winter and into next year will focus on restoring the granite bridge at the top end of Bond Lane. This bridge requires the same level of work that we undertook last year at Wood Lane. The contractor estimate for the restoration was £19,000, but our volunteers undertook all of the work themselves meaning that we were able to complete the task to a very high standard for only £120. Yes, you did read that correctly! It just goes to show what benefit volunteer groups can bring to the community. Thanks go to support from Lafarge and the Parish Council who made a donation of £50. We hope to achieve the same quality of restoration at Bond Lane and have applied to the Parish Council for a grant of £100 to allow repointing work to get under way. Sadly I have to report the death of one of our long time volunteers and Mountsorrel resident Mick Bustin. Mick helped in almost every area of the project and he was instrumental in the success of the ecology work we have undertaken with local schools, Guide, Scout and Boys Brigade groups. So far over 400 children have visited the trackbed as part of our program to plant native wild flowers along the sides of the route. In the summer months some readers may have noticed Mick rolling his camping water barrel along Halstead Road on his almost daily watering visits
to the trackbed? If it wasn't for his efforts at the driest times of the year, the new plants would have struggled to become established. We will miss him and our thoughts are with his family. A local artist has created a water colour painting showing a scene along the restored branch line with sole surviving Mountsorrel Railway steam locomotive Elizabeth, hauling her train of Mountsorrel granite wagons through the bridge at Wood Lane. The artist has very kindly allowed us to commission a limited edition run of prints of the painting with all proceeds from their sale going directly to our track appeal. The prints are now available just in time for Christmas and are selling fast. Buying a print is an excellent way to support the project, you can find further details by looking at our website www.mountsorrelrailway.org.uk or by contacting steve@mountsorrelrailway.org.uk. The project is always on the look out for new volunteers. We need additional help in all areas of the project. In addition to this we are looking for a volunteer to help run our junior ecology sessions. Since Lesley left to pursue her teaching degree we have not been able to run any of these hugely successful sessions. The aim of the junior ecology sessions is to give children and their parents an ‘hands on’ insight into ecology. If you enjoy ecology, like working with children and can spare two hours of your time once every couple of months, please get in touch via the website or the email address above.
Christmas Carol Concert Organised by
Mountsorrel Parish Council You are all invited to the Memorial Hall on Tuesday December 14 at 7.30pm Those taking part include: Leicestershire Co-op Band Local Organisations Local Clergy Light refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the concert Mountsorrel Post DECEMBER 2010 (33), page 2
Continued from page 1 currently in the process of recruiting volunteers. In October, an open day was organised to provide an opportunity for potential volunteers to meet some of the young people and a number of people have now committed to helping out at the café. The project has also recently been awarded a £5000 Community Development grant from Charnwood Borough Council. Earlier in the year the café secured funding of £15,000 from Lafarge, £10,000 from the County Council and £3,000 from the Youth Bank. The group is still looking to recruit volun-
teers – go to www.sycafe.org or visit the café on Saturday December 4.
Pic: the planned layout of the café
Indecent images found A COURT has ordered that a Mountsorrel man sign the Sex Offenders’ register after indecent images of children were found on his computer. Stuart Robinson (63) of Glebe Close, Mountsorrel and Barry Clements (64) of Standard Hill, Coalville, both pleaded guilty to making indecent photos of children when they appeared at Coventry Crown Court. Robinson’s computer contained 665 images which had been viewed but not saved, while Clements’ had 65 images on his computer and a further 3000 pictures and 355 film clips on memory sticks and CDs. The pair were each made subject to a
three year community order involving supervision and attendance on a sex offenders’ programme. They were also banned from having any unsupervised contact with children under 16 and banned from using the internet. They must sign the Sex Offenders’ register and pay £1000 costs. Robinson and Clements were warned that if they commit any further offences in the next three years they would each be jailed for 16 months.
St Clements Day Nursery 16 Church Hill, Woodhouse Eaves, LE12 8RT
Children aged 3 months to 5 years 01509 891131 Also holiday club for children age 4-11 years
www.stclementsdaynursery.co.uk enq-stclements@btconnect.com
Mountsorrel Post DECEMBER 2010, page 3
Judge Peter Ross said: “I refuse to use the words child pornography, because what this evil business is all about is children being abused for the sexual pleasure of men like you, children who are injured, traumatised and often caused great pain just so your perverted desires can be satisfied.”
The March issue of the
MOUNTSORREL POST will be published on Mar 11. The copy deadline is Feb 25 .
Mountsorrel Post DECEMBER 2010 (33), page 4
Paying tribute to the fallen REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY was marked in Mountsorrel by a parade and a service at St Peter’s Church. Organised by the Royal British Legion, the parade from The Green to the church was led by the musicians of the Leicestershire Co-op Snibston Band. Youth organisations, councillors and dignitaries including Mr Terry Higgins, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant; Mrs Janie Martin, County President of the Royal British Legion Women’s Section; Mrs Jill Vincent, the Mayor of Charnwood; Mr Brian Allard, Chairman of Mountsorrel Parish Council and Mr Peter Osborne, the Chairman of the County Council, took part in the parade.
Mountsorrel Post DECEMBER 2010, page 5
Councillor cleared by panel A COMPLAINT about a Mountsorrel Parish councillor has been rejected by Charnwood Borough Council’s Standards Panel. After considering the evidence at a hearing on September 28, the Panel ruled that Cllr Mick Lemon had not failed to comply with the Code of Conduct of Mountsorrel Parish Council by ‘failing to treat others with respect’ or by ‘bringing his office or authority into disrepute’. The complainant was Mr Niraj Samani, from Bargain Booze on Rothley Road which he runs with his brother Mr Mayur Samani. The complaint was made following a meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council held on April 20, 2009 which was attended by Mr Samani and his brother. At the meeting, a heated debate had taken place about the issue of alcohol being sold to minors. A statement that Bargain Booze “should be shut down” was made, voices were raised and Mr Samani and his brother stood up and moved towards Cllr Lemon, standing near to him. He then stood up and faced Mr Samani and his brother, leading to a confrontation. After receiving the complaint on May 22, the Borough Council’s investigating officer interviewed witnesses including the Parish Clerk, Mr Samani, Cllr Lemon and PC Paul Bird.
During his interview Cllr Lemon had been unable to recall who had made the comment that Bargain Booze “should be shut down”. Shortly after the Investigating Officer completed her report on March 10, Mountsorrel Parish Councillor Steve Haywood wrote to the Borough Council confirming he had made that comment. At the hearing on September 28, 2010, the Panel ruled that since the comment could not be attributed to Cllr Lemon, “therefore no lack of respect could be attributed from that”. The Investigating Officer, Miss Oli Akinsanmi, stated that she considered Cllr Lemon had failed to recognise that Mr Samani would defend his business when allegations were made at the meeting and that when he was challenged by Mr Samani, Cllr Lemon’s reaction had been disproportionate and intimidating towards Mr Samani and his brother. The meeting was a public meeting and Cllr Lemon’s behaviour had been such that she considered that he had brought his office or authority into disrepute. Cllr Lemon represented himself at the hearing. He stated that he had felt threatened by Mr Samani and his brother as they had left their seats in the public gallery and moved towards him while he remained seated.
As he did not know they would be attending the meeting he had not considered it necessary to bring any evidence to the meeting in respect of the allegations made regarding the sale of alcohol to minors. He stated that given the facts that the comments made at the meeting could not be attributed to him, the heated debate that had taken place, the fact that he had felt threatened by the actions of Mr Samani and his brother and that he had been unaware that they would be attending the meeting, he did not consider that he had failed to treat Mr Samani or his brother with respect nor brought his office or authority into disrepute. After considering the evidence, the Standards Panel ruled that Cllr Lemon’s conduct had not amounted to failing to treat Mr Samani with respect and that he had not brought his office or authority into disrepute. The Panel’s decision notice states “The circumstances showed that there had been a passion on behalf of Cllr Lemon in addressing a problem which had exercised Mountsorrel Parish Council for a substantial time, for which his committee was responsible. There had been equal passion and determination on the part of Mr Samani in defending the reputation of his business. Voices had been raised and a confrontation had taken place between Cllr Lemon, Mr Samani and his brother, who had left their seats in the public gallery and moved near to Cllr Lemon. The confrontation might have also involved another councillor. In that environment and having found that a comment directed towards Mr Samani had not been made by Cllr Lemon the remaining evidence against Cllr Lemon, although passionately expressed did not amount to failing to treat Mr Samani with respect.”
Driver jailed A MOUNTSORREL man has been jailed for 15 months for dangerous driving. Daniel Wilson (29) of Church Hill Road, Mountsorrel, was also banned from driving for five years. On September 4, Wilson failed to stop for police in a patrol car and sped off along the A6 towards Leicester. He reached speeds of 86mph in a 40mph zone, and went through nine sets of red lights during a four minute police chase. He was stopped in a dead end on an industrial estate and restrained with the use of CS spray. Wilson also admitted driving without a licence or insurance and making off from the Tesco petrol station in Beaumont Leys without paying for fuel on four consecutive Saturdays between August 7 and 28. He stole £270 worth of fuel.
Mountsorrel Post DECEMBER 2010 (33), page 6
NHW news Force of & crime report
Good News The latest figures out this month show that antisocial behaviour in Mountsorrel is down by a massive 51% to date compared to last year – this is brilliant stuff and long may it continue! I am positive that all the hard work by the Youth Development Group over the last few years and the Sorrel Youth Café is starting to pay off. Crime Update There was a house burglary on Peppers Close on October 25 between 10am-4pm. The house was entered by forcing a downstairs window. A small amount of cash was stolen. On Tuesday October 12 between 10pm – 2am the following morning there was a series of arson attacks on several street bins and a skip along the route including Hawthorn Road, Leicester Road, Kingfisher Road and outside Soar Valley Leisure Centre. The theft of a post office bike on the same evening is also believed to be linked. Enquiries are ongoing. Some time during Saturday October 9 a quantity of lead was stolen from the roof of One Lea House Nursery on Loughborough Road. If anyone has any information about crimes being committed in the area, please telephone Leicestershire Constabulary on 0116 222 2222. You may also contact Crimestoppers, which is free and anonymous on 0800 555 111. Crime Prevention Advice With the start of the colder weather it is a timely reminder to motorists not to leave vehicles running and unattended whilst defrosting them, it is an offence of Quitting which comes with a £30 penalty, more importantly if your vehicle is stolen with the keys your insurance will generally not cover the theft. How to Contact Us You can leave a message for us – PC 1326 Paul Bird or PCSO 6442 Tom Joyce – by telephone 0116 222 2222 and when prompted type in our collar numbers. We will get back to you as soon as possible. You can also send us an email by logging onto the website at www.leics.police.uk and clicking on the ‘Neighbourhood Policing’ icon. From PC Paul Bird
friendship ON A sunny August Sunday afternoon the Friendship Force Club of Leicestershire welcomed 11 ambassadors from the German Friendship Force Club of Braunschweig-Peine who stayed in members’ homes for five days while they discovered Leicestershire. The local club laid on a full programme which began with a cream tea welcome party at the Mountsorrel home of Geoff and Sue Wainwright at which the Deputy Mayor of Charnwood brought civic greetings to both clubs.
Falling crime FALLING CRIME figures over the last six months have been welcomed by Leicestershire Police Authority. A report published in November also revealed that victims of antisocial behaviour had an improved satisfaction rate with the service they received from the Police. For the period April to October 2010 reported crime in the county fell 11 per cent to 5458 compared to the previous year, and satisfaction rates rose by 4.1 per cent from 77.1 to 81.2 per cent. Gun crime fell by 22 per cent with 13 fewer crimes, domestic burglary was down 24 per cent and theft from a vehicle was down 13 per cent. Burglary from business premises where the value of items stolen exceeds £1000 fell by 16.7 per cent.
Mountsorrel Post DECEMBER 2010, page 7
During their visit the ambassadors from Germany (pictured above) experienced local culture, hospitality and food which included: a walking tour of old Leicester and a visit to Belgrave Hall; a visit to Melton Mowbray, its cattle market and Pork Pie shop and a visit to Foxton Locks and Leicester Botanic Garden. A long alley skittles evening was arranged and the farewell party included a Cottage Pie supper and a Beetle Drive. Friendship Force International (FFI) is a non-profit international cultural exchange organisation which was founded in 1977 with a single mission: to create an environment in which personal friendships are established across the barriers that separate people. Certainly lasting friendships were made during this incoming exchange and the Leicestershire Club has been invited to a reciprocal visit to Germany next year. The Leicestershire Club is also making plans to visit the Cape of Good Hope Club in 2011 as well as welcoming the FF Club of Lamphun (Thailand) and the Aukland & Wairarapa Clubs from New Zealand. The Friendship Force of Leicestershire is always ready to welcome new members; further information can be obtained from its membership secretary, Margaret Myatt, melrose1936@tiscali.co.uk or visit www.thefriendshipforce.org From Geoff Wainwright
Parish Council notes A FULL meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on September 13. The winners of the Parish Council’s Best Kept Front Garden competition were presented with their prizes. Cllr Steve Haywood reported that the fun day on the Halstead Road playing field in August had been affected by wet weather and that next year’s event would run from 2-6pm to encourage greater attendance. It was agreed to donate £2000 to Mountsorrel School’s after-school ‘Superstars Activity Club’. A full meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on October 11. Mr Nicholls was co-opted onto the Parish Council to fill a vacancy. Cllr Mick Lemon reported that dog fouling was a major problem and he felt that the matter should be dealt with by the full council rather than a committee. It was agreed that dog fouling would be on the December agenda for full council to discuss. Mr Will Antill reported that new plans are being drawn up for a new £2million Memorial Centre, and that groups and businesses needed to be approached for funding. A new prospectus needed to be produced to assist with this and the Council agreed to provide £2500 for the prospectus and plans.
It was agreed that the Council contact Rothley Parish Council and request a meeting, so that the two councils can work together on planning issues. It was agreed to award a certificate of commendation to Mrs June Wakeling and Mr Alan Smith. Mrs Wakeling has served as a school crossing patrol for over 30 years and Mr Smith has worked with the British Legion, Boys’ Brigade and other organisations within the village. A letter has been received from a resident concerned about a kebab van in the village and the use of a pathway and doorway to the library as a toilet. It was agreed to forward the letter to Malcolm Burton at Charnwood Licensing and to the Police. A full meeting of Mountsorrel Parish Council was held on November 8. The Council is concerned about the erection of satellite dishes and UPVC doors on properties on Barons Court/Market Place managed by De Montfort Housing Association. It was agreed to contact Charnwood Borough Council and the Housing Association. It was agreed that the Sorrel Youth Café chairman John Doyle be invited to talk to councillors just prior to the December meeting of the Parish Council. The Council agreed to donate £350 to the
Mountsorrel Post DECEMBER 2010 (33), page 8
Royal British Legion. It was reported that Cllr Weedon has resigned. The Council agreed to object to David Wilson Homes plans for 46 dwellings on the former factory site on Linkfield Road on the grounds that: the layout is unclear; headlights from vehicles exiting the development will shine directly into the existing houses opposite; Linkfield road is too narrow and congested to accommodate buses/bus stops. The council feels that Section 106 monies should go to the planned new Memorial Hall if planning permission is granted. The Council is obtaining advice and seeking quotes for repair work to the Buttermarket pillars.
Charnwood job losses JOB LOSSES at Charnwood Borough Council will amount to 80-100 posts being axed because of Government spending costs. The Council says it will need to reduce its number of employees from the current level of 440 because it has to save £2.5million over the next four years.
Volunteers support mothers TWO WOMEN from Mountsorrel have completed their training to become Breastfeeding Peer Supporters. Lydia Martindale and Susan Forrester are among the latest group of Charnwood BRAS (Breastfeeding Reassurance and Support) volunteers. They and nine other women from Charnwood have taken part in the La Leche League Breastfeeding Peer Counsellor Programme aimed at providing support to mums who are breastfeeding and giving information to pregnant ladies about feeding their babies. The course covers the practicalities of breastfeeding and why human milk is the Pic: Lydia Martindale (right) with the Mayor of Charnwood
best mile for human babies as well as issues such as confidentiality and counsellor skills. Lydia and Susan join Liz Blackshaw and Elizabeth Pic: Mountsorrel volunteer Dorman, also Susan Forrester (left) in Mountsorrel, who trained last year and are now out and about in Charnwood, with other volunteers, supporting mums at breast feeding cafes, post natal groups, hospitals, Sure Start Centres and anywhere else that their help is needed. Joanne Talbot, Community Nursery Nurse, is the course co-ordinator and is already running the next training course. Health visitors, family outreach workers and the charity Home-Start are also involved in training the volunteers at Sure Start Centres in Charnwood. Joanne says: “These ladies have shown hard work and commitment to the training and now will be able to help so many other people give their babies the best possible start in life. They have all breastfed their own children and now have the knowledge and skills to help others in Charnwood do the same by giving support and information at every stage of breastfeeding.” The Mayor of Charnwood, Jill Vincent, presented the women with their certificates at a ceremony and told them that she had breastfed all her four children and was fully supportive of
Mountsorrel Post DECEMBER 2010, page 9
the role that the volunteers will now undertake. To contact the group see their website www.charnwoodbras.co.uk or contact them through your health visitor or midwife.
Trapped by rockslide A MOUNTSORREL man who was caught up in a rock slide at Mountsorrel quarry was flown to hospital in an air ambulance. The 47 year old had to be rescued after he fell and became partially buried by rocks at the Lafarge Aggregates quarry off Wood Lane. The incident happened at 2pm on Wednesday October 27. A spokeswoman for Lafarge said: “During a routine inspection of a quarry face prior to it being set up for drilling, two employees were involved in a rock slide resulting in one employee sliding with the stone. “He was quickly cleared of all debris and taken by air ambulance to hospital. A full body scan later revealed he had suffered no broken bones or internal injury and he was released from hospital and back with his family at home later that evening. “Lafarge Aggregates takes this incident very seriously. The company in conjunction with the Health and Safety Executive is investigating the incident.”
Youth service cuts YOUTH SERVICES in the county will be cut with the equivalent of 43 full time posts being lost from April 2011. County Council. Rothley will lose its council youth workers
PHOTO: CLIVE RASIN
The Youth Service budget of £4million will be cut by “at least £1.5million” says the
Expanding group’s exhibition
PHOTO: CLIVE RASIN
OUR PICTURE shows members of the Mountsorrel Painting Group at the Queens Park Café Gallery in Loughborough, where an exhibition of their work was staged in September and October. For more information about the group contact 0116 2375314
that currently offer provision from the youth club on Fowke Street. A County Council spokesman said: “Under the proposals we will continue to have a presence at Birstall Youth Centre and offer provision in Mountsorrel via detached work. “Two weekly meetings that currently take place in Rothley will cease to run so we can focus our work on priority neighbourhoods.” Youth Service representatives have been visiting Parish Councils, community forums, schools and other parties explaining the plans. The spokesman said: “In the current climate we have to make some difficult decisions about where to make savings, and are faced with some tough choices. As a result, we are looking at the Youth Service with a view to refocusing our priorities. We will continue to work in areas where we will make the biggest impact, with an emphasis on supporting vulnerable young people. However, the size of the budget reductions means we are considering a reduction in the number of youth clubs and projects the service operates. We have worked with staff to identify priority areas of work and will be working closely with the voluntary sector to see if it would be able to take on some of the services we offer. We hope that through talks with our partners communities will be supported in finding local solutions to enable certain activities we may no longer be able to continue to sustain.” The drop-in youth centre in the pavilion on the School Lane playing fields, Birstall, will be unaffected by the County Council’s cuts as it is funded by Birstall Parish council.
New pastor MOUNTSORREL BAPTIST Church welcomed their new Pastor, Keith Munro, at a special induction service. Pictured are Keith and Denise Munro with Reverend Dianne Tidball (left)
Bin blaze FOUR waste bins were destroyed when vandals set fire to them. The ceiling of the compound where the bins were stored at Chestnut Court was also damaged. Firefighters were called to the scene at 11.30pm on Tuesday October 12 and extinguished the blaze. Mountsorrel Post DECEMBER 2010 (33), page 10
PHOTO: CLIVE RASIN
Thank Village you walk to Peter hear issues COUNCIL, POLICE and housing officers are joining forces in a new series of Neighbourhood Walks to tackle issues raised by residents throughout Charnwood. One of the first of the walks was in Mountsorrel on November 9. Seven communities will be visited twice a year to ask people what issues are affecting their neighbourhoods. Each visit will include a drop-in session before and after the walk at a local community venue. The aim of the Neighbourhood Walk is to increase community engagement and give residents the chance to speak directly to frontline officers who can help them tackle issues. The various agencies will then pledge to report back within six weeks to the community on the issues raised, which can range from litter and dog fouling to antisocial behaviour and crime. Cllr Mike Preston, Leader of Charnwood
MEMBERS OF the Mountsorrel Memorial Day Centre celebrated ten years of voluntary work by one of their team. Mr Peter Griffiths has helped the clients and staff in varied tasks at the day centre including escorting with the driver on the ambulance and serving refreshments and meals. Peter was presented with a gift as a thank you by the staff of this Age Concern Leicester Shire and Rutland Day Centre. Day Centre organiser Pam Cooper has valued Peter’s dedication and commitment to the members. Pic: Peter Griffiths with members of the Mountsorrel Memorial Day Centre
Borough Council, said: “This is an innovative way of blitzing community issues and addressing residents’ needs by working closely with our partners in a co-ordinated way to deliver services where they are needed most. We want as many people as possible to come and speak to our teams on the beat and let them know about any issues which are affecting their quality of life. This initiative allows residents to access a range of agencies and
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71 Sibson Rd, Birstall (0116) 267 7787 Mountsorrel Post DECEMBER 2010, page 11
allows us to tackle a variety of issues which can cause concerns in our communities.” As well as the visit, officers will deliver postcards to homes giving residents the chance to air their views in writing. As well as Mountsorrel, the team will visit Thorpe Acre, Thurmaston and various areas of Loughborough.
New bench
Front garden competition
A NEW village bench has been provided on the Green, dedicated to the former chairman of Mountsorrel Heritage Group. A spokesman for the group said: “We are pleased that one of the new benches which have recently been provided in the village has been dedicated to the memory of our former chairman Ken Wiblin.” Through Ken’s enthusiasm the group was formed in 2005 as a result of the responses to the Mountsorrel Parish Plan questionnaire which was circulated to households in July 2004. He was also appointed as Mountsorrel’s first Heritage Warden, a position he held until his untimely death in February 2008. “The group extends its grateful thanks to Mountsorrel Parish Council for its co-operation in making the necessary arrangements for this particular bench to be placed on The Green” added the spokesman.
THE WINNERS of the Mountsorrel Parish Council’s Best Kept Front Garden competition 2010 were: Large garden: 1st Mr & Mrs Spiers; 2nd Mr & Mrs Heemskerk; 3rd Mr & Mrs Cooke Small garden: 1st Mr & Mrs Cope; 2nd Mrs Kissane-Rogers; 3rd Mr & Mrs White. Hanging baskets and window boxes: 1st Mr & Mrs Lanning; 2nd Mrs Beck; 3rd Mr & Mrs Harrison Business Premises: 1st Mountsorrel Guest House; 2nd Rose Cottage Rest Home; 3rd The Swan Inn
Planning P/10/2273/2: 8 Grange Lane – erection of summer house to rear of dwelling P/10/2224/2: 8 Swallow Close – erection of single storey extension to front of dwelling P/10/2088/2: Former Factory, Linkfield Road – erection of 46 dwellings and associated works P/10/2172/2: 9 Linden Grove – erection of single storey extension to front of dwelling P/10/1832/2: 24&26 Halstead Road – repositioning of triple garage block serving plots 5&6 P/10/2144/2 – 60 Hawcliffe Road – erection of two dwell-
ings P/10/2003/2: 15 Leicester Rd – fell 1 Prunus tree and re-shape 1 Prunus tree P/10/1967/2: 182/184 Leicester Rd – site for the erection of dwellings following demolition of single storey factory unit P/10/1954/2: 20 Willow Grove – single storey extensions to north and west sides of dwelling P/10/1793/2: Land to rear of 73 Cross lane – erection of 1 dwelling and detached garage P/10/1829/2: 34A Market Place – extension of time limit for implementation of planning permission P/07/3260/2 for the erection of two dwellings P/10/1751/2: 14 Dover Close – erection of single storey extension to side & conservatory to rear of dwelling P/10/1841/2: 11 Leicester Rd – works to 1 Horse Chestnut tree P/10/1825/2: 9 Sileby Rd – felling of one Conifer tree P/10/1814/2: 14 Linden Grove – erection of detached dwelling and single garage
Bill’s gift ONE OF Mountsorrel’s oldest parishioners has been presented with a gift by the Parish Council to mark his 100th birthday. Bill White of Hawthorn Road was presented with a clock by Cllr Neil Asher on behalf of Mountsorrel Parish Council. Bill is believed to be the oldest ever male resident of the parish.
Truck hits horse A HORSE was hit by a truck after it got onto the A6 near Mountsorrel. It was later put down as a result of its injuries. Police were called to the scene following reports of three horses on the road at 6.30pm on Monday October 25. Two of the horses were rounded up safely. The driver of the truck was unhurt. One lane of the dual carriageway was closed until 9am. Police say it is not clear how the animals got onto the road.
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PHONE NOW ON 0116 2505842 Mountsorrel Post DECEMBER 2010 (33), page 12
Dog fouling blitzed CHARNWOOD BOROUGH Council has joined forces with Keep Britain Tidy to wage war against irresponsible dog owners who do not pick up after their pets. The council has stepped up patrols in hotspot areas in order to educate people on how to be responsible dog owners in a bid to reduce the amount of dog waste left in parks and streets throughout the Borough. Mountsorrel was one of the areas that had a joint patrol with Street Wardens and the Dog Warden which covered the Halstead Road playing fields and a large number of streets surrounding the park. 19 Caught Doing Right cards were issued during the 4 week campaign. The joint patrols were a highly visible deterrent to irresponsible dog owners and no fixed penalty notices were issued for owners allowing their dogs to foul during the campaign. Charnwood Borough Council intend to continue the joint patrols and will issue fixed penalty notices to anyone that allows their dog to foul and does not clear it up after. In 2009/10, Charnwood Borough Council received 196 complaints about dog fouling mainly in residential areas and parks. The campaign aims to not only enforce the law, but to also change behaviour and encourage dog owners to bag and bin their dog’s waste in any litter bin in the Borough. Councillor Hilary Fryer, Charnwood Borough Council’s lead member for the environment, said: “Dog fouling is the biggest complaint this council receives. It is irresponsible, ignorant and potentially dangerous to young children. “We are very pleased to join Keep Britain Tidy on this crusade to reduce the amount of dog mess on our streets and parks. “I hope the message reaches those dog owners who think it is acceptable not to clean up after their pets. There really is no excuse anymore because any bin will do.” Charnwood will join the fight against fouling along with Leicester City, Blaby, Harborough, Hinkley & Bosworth, Melton, North West Leicestershire and Oadby & Wigston councils. The councils, which form the award-winning Leicestershire Enforcement Forum, were selected to champion the campaign by Keep
Britain Tidy as one of just 10 regional partnerships out of from 89 applications nationally. During high visibility patrols by Street Wardens and dog wardens, responsible owners will be rewarded with a ‘Caught Doing Right’ card that can be used to enter a free prize draw. Anyone found to be committing an offence by not bagging their dog’s waste could be hit with an £80 fixed penalty notice. As part of the local campaign, a new monitoring system will be introduced. Following any complaint about dog fouling in a residential area, a monitoring form will be issued to all households along the street. This will help gather information that could lead to enforcement officers to finding the dog owner responsible for not clearing it up. Many dog owners responsibly throw away a large proportion of dog mess, but there are still owners out there who are prepared to leave their dog’s mess littered on our streets, in our parks and around our countryside. Dog mess can be thrown in any general litter bin but a recent Keep Britain Tidy survey shows that four out of five respondents are not aware of this. Should you wish to report any dog fouling incidents please contact cleaner.greener@charnwood.gov.uk or telephone 01509 634563.
Mountsorrel Post DECEMBER 2010, page 13
Family play FREE PLAY events for children aged 0-5 are running at Mountsorrel’s Memorial Hall. Creative family play sessions are being run every Tuesday until Christmas at Mountsorrel’s Memorial Hall between 4-5pm. The free sessions are run by Charnwood Borough Council’s Play Rangers. Play Ranger Sue Monk said: “Our aim is to help develop children’s social skills, discipline, co-ordination but it is mainly about having fun – and it’s all for free! It’s absolutely brilliant. I’m so passionate about the job and the positive effect our sessions can have on individuals, families and even communities. We really do help people come together. In some cases we are seeing families play together for the first time which is so rewarding.” For more details call 01509 634673
Yoga classes STRESS BUSTING yoga classes costing £2.50 have started in Thurmaston. Charnwood Borough Council is running fitness yoga sessions which are designed to strengthen and tone the body as well as increase flexibility and muscle control. The classes are held at the Elizabeth Park Sports and Community Centre, Checkland Road, Thurmaston between 12noon and 1 pm from Nov 19 until January 11. Each session costs £2.50. The classes are designed for people of all levels of fitness. For more information contact Charnwood Borough Council’s Active Together Team on 01509 632534 or email active.together@charnwood.gov.uk
YOUR SAY... Noticeboard all details printed free
The Mountsorrel Post welcomes your views and opinions on any subject. Letters, which must include your name and address, (though not necessarily for publication) can be posted to: The Mountsorrel Post, Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH, or handed in at Mountsorrel library or email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk
Almost Christmas
Film Presentations from Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council ‘Amelia’ will be shown on Friday December 10 (111 mins) Amelia Earhart was the first woman aviator to fly solo round the world. She inspired millions.
BATHING
Gosh! I’m so excited It isn’t long to wait Christmas is a-coming A most important date
Hilary Swank is the double Oscar winner who conveyed the wonder of Amelia in every venture that she tackled. This awe inspiring film includes beautiful aerial photography, excellent period costume and vintage aircraft including the Lockhead in which Amelia mysteriously disappeared. Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall, starting at 7.30pm. Tickets £4. Concessions £3.50. Price includes refreshments and a lucky prize draw. Advance tickets can be purchased via the parish office, 0116 2367626 or at the door •••
A PROBLEM?
Try a walk in shower
I love the crowded markets Party dresses on the rails The buy-one gift and get-one free Then ten-per-cent off sales! But that’s not why I’m excited I wonder, can you guess? It’s not the swirling snowflakes Nor the cards that I address It isn’t Rudolph’s red nose Or Santa on his sleigh (I really must contain myself Or give the game away)
• Non-slip safety flooring • Product & labour guarantee • Rapid installation • Lever taps & tile panelling • Easy walk in & out shower/baths • Level entry wet floors • Grab rails, shower seats & raised toilets • Grants & council work • Discounts for OAPs, Co-op members, ex-service personnel, SSAFA & British Legion members
It’s not the social gatherings The twinkling fairy lights The food, the wine, the décor Or frosty winter nights I feel you need the answer Here’s where my teasing stops I know that once it’s Christmas Easter Eggs are in the shops From Peggy Clarke
Party appeals? These are times of significant change. Bailing out the bankers who threatened our savings and pensions has been followed by the deepest world recession since the 1920’s. With troops being sent to fight foreign wars, unemployment about to shoot up, and with public services threatened for years to come, many people want their voice – and an alternative voice, to be heard. Some will challenge job losses in their work place. Voluntary organisations in Charnwood will be fighting to save their grants without which many will have to close. Others want to act in a political way by joining Ed Miliband’s new generation of Labour Party members. We welcome anyone who would like to join the party and support alternatives. If so, give us a ring or go to www.labour.org.uk at your next opportunity! We also welcome men and women who want to be active in their local communities, ensuring the most vulnerable suffer least and protecting facilities at risk. So we are asking anyone who would like Labour’s help in becoming a Parish or Borough Councillor to contact us so we can talk about opportunities available to you and how the Borough Council can help too. If you want to do something worthwhile, this is and has always been most worthwhile and deeply rewarding for those who volunteer as well as those they help. Please get in touch to find out more! Max Hunt Leader of Charnwood Labour Group Tel: 07793 369 888 clrmaxhunt@yahoo.co.uk
MOT VEHICLE TESTING STATION
TESTING
PETROLS • DIESELS MOTORCYCLES CROPSTON GARAGE
Thanks Having run a stall at the Annual Memorial Hall Charities Fair Saturday November 13 on behalf of Glenfield Hospital Asthma Research Department, we would like to send a thank you to the local businesses who donated a prize to our raffle: Soar Valley Leisure Centre, for donating two 7 day Leisure passes. Budgens for donating a Tea Time Food Hamper. Cromwell Road Coffee Shop for donating two vouchers for two people to have a meal and drink. The Lindens Public House for donating a voucher for a main meal for 4 people. Stonehurst Farm for donating a Family Pass for two adults and two children Leicester City Football Club for donating a Stadium Tour for four people. Our Raffle raised £50 to the charity which has been passed on the Asthma Research Department at Glenfield Hospital. We would like to add our thanks to the Mountsorrel business community for its generosity towards our chosen cause. David & Miranda Wroe
Mountsorrel Post DECEMBER 2010 (33), page 14
37 - 39 Station Road Cropston, Leicester 0116 2362363
Office of National Statistics A range of
Full & Part time jobs Are available to help carry out the next census in March 2011. Available roles include census co-ordinators, census collectors and census enumerators Application details are available at www.censusjobs.co.uk and local job centres ••• It’s Panto Time Once Again “Oh Yes It Is” Leicester’s award winning 11th Hour Productions bring their thrilling, fun packed show
‘Babes in the Wood’ to Stonehill High School, Birstall on December 10 & 11 Join Silly Billy and Lucy Lastic on this daring adventure to rescue Hansel and Gretel from the Sheriff of Nottingham! Fun for all ages in a show filled to the brim with songs, jokes and spectacle, a must see for all the family. Written and directed by John Shaw with musical direction by Beth Ellis, choreography by Sharon Cornell and featuring Showstoppers Academy of Dance. Tickets and further info available from 0116 2831646 or book online at www.11hr-productions.co.uk •••
WI Country Market Anstey Methodist Church, the Nook 1st Friday of the month, 9-11am Home made cakes, savouries, jams, chutneys, marmalade, plants, fruit & veg handmade cards, crafts, jewellery Tea/coffee, free admission ••• Syston & District Operatic Society (SADOS) presents
10am till noon, 50p admission Rt Hon S Dorrell MP will be attending Raffle, tombola, books, produce stalls, games, cakes & bric-a-brac ••• Birstall Methodist Thursday Group The Ratcliffe Chorale
Christmas Concert Thursday December 16 at 7.30pm Birstall Methodist Church, Wanlip Lane, Birstall Tickets £5 (inc tea, coffee, mince pies) from 2675615, 2673158 or 2675128 (or pay at the door) in aid of our project fund the Richard Engelgardt Trust ••• NSPCC ‘Speak Out’ Campaign I am a volunteer speaker for the NSPCC ‘Speak Out’ campaign. I deliver a short talk designed to raise awareness of the NSPCC childline service and work in Leicestershire. My talk is free of charge, and donations are welcome. If this is of interest to your group, please do get in touch. Beverley 07876 380184 •••
Christmas Church Services in Mountsorrel • Sunday Dec 19 • Methodist Church 10.30am All Age Carol Service Christ Church 11am Christmas Praise Methodist Church 4pm Christmas Praise & Bring & Share Tea Baptist Church 5pm Carol Service & Refreshments
Jack and the Beanstalk Wreake Valley Community College, Parkstone Road, Syston Thursday/Friday December 9/10 at 7pm and Saturday/Sunday December 11/12 at 2pm Adults £7.50; Child/Concessions £5 (discount available for group bookings 10+) Ticket bookings & enquiries contact Rachel 01455 230150 ••• Charnwood Conservative Association
Christmas Fair Saturday December 4 The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley
Mountsorrel Post DECEMBER 2010, page 15
St Peter’s Church 6pm Traditional Carol Service & Refreshments • Christmas Eve, Friday Dec 24 • Christ Church 4pm Crib & Christingle Service Methodist Church 7pm Carols by Candlelight St Peter’s Church 11.15pm United Holy Communion (BCP) Christmas Day, Saturday December 25 St Peter’s Church 9.15am Holy Communion (BCP) Baptist Church 10am All Age Worship Christ Church 10.30am Family Communion Methodist Church 10.30am All Age Worship • Sunday December 26 • Baptist Church 10.45am United Service ‘God Has Kept His Promise’ Short Time of Worship • Sunday January 2 • St Peter’s Church 9.15am Morning Prayer (BCP) Methodist Church 10.30am All Age Worship Baptist Church 10.45am Morning Worship for the New Year Christ Church 11am Healing & Wholeness Service St Peter’s Church 4pm Senior Sunday •••
Continued on page 16
Continued from page 15
Featuring children from Thurcaston Primary School
Charnwood Borough Council
Purple Recycling Bags Now available free at: Soar Valley Leisure Centre, off Kingfisher Rd or from the Parish Council Office on Little Lane Purple bags can be used to recycle metals, plastics, paper and cardboard •••
Mountsorrel Christmas Lights Switch On Friday December 3, 6pm, The Green by BBC Radio Presenter Ben Jackson •••
Wed Dec 8, 6.30 – 8.30pm Leicester Cathedral Written & devised by Garry Slack Music: Paul K Joyce Narration: David Benson Phillips Adults £7.50, child £5 Family (2 adult/ 2 children) £20 Tel 0844 5938440
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.
Sing Christmas At The Lindens, Halstead Road Live broadcast by Radio Leicester Tuesday Dec 27, 7pm ••• Charnwood Orchestra
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.
Magic of Vienna Waltzes, Polkas and Marches 7pm Saturday Jan 15 Humphrey Perkins Community Centre, Cotes Road, Barrow LE12 8JU Tickets £10 (£8 concessions) Children U16 £3 From the Paper Shop, High St, Barrow or 07718153117 ••• Action Deafness presents
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
The Shining, Signing Star A musical nativity play for children using English & Sign language
CLARE’S LITTLE Cupcake Company. Specialising in bespoke handcrafted cupcakes. Gluten free and diabetic options also available. Free consultation and local delivery. Tel: 07837 533401 or visit www.clareslittlecupcakeco.com WANTED Scrap cars & vans. Cash on collection. 0776 2574315
Contact us THE MOUNTSORREL Post is delighted to receive contributions from residents. You can send us: Details of a community event such as a rummage sale, fete or coffee morning for free publication on our ‘Noticeboard’ page. Items of news - we’re interested in everything: club and society news, prizewinners, charity events, church news, complaints, praise, new projects, new facilities, trips, sport, crime, anything that concerns or interests you. A letter for our letters page - we welcome letters on any issue, local or national. All letters must include the sender’s name and address (though not necessarily for publication). Photos - we particularly welcome old photographs giving an insight into local history. Small ads - you can sell items with a classified ad for only 25p! How you can contact us: Phone or Fax (0116) 267 4213 Hand in your items at Mountsorrel Library, Rothley Library or Birstall Library Write to us at The Mountsorrel Post, Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH Email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk The Mountsorrel Post is an independent newspaper
Tel: 0116 267 2583 Mob: 07967 191975 Buy DELL products here
MOUNTSORREL POST YOUR INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH Editor: Mr Jerry Jackson Editorial/Advertising (Tel & Fax)
0116 2674213 Correspondence, news etc can be handed in at: Mountsorrel Library, Rothley Post Office or to our office in the Youth Centre, Longslade College, Birstall
editor@birstallpost.co.uk
Mountsorrel Post DECEMBER 2010 (33), page 16