Rothley Post May 2009 (76)

THE ROTHLEY POST YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER Delivered FREE to Rothley, Thurcaston & Cropston

MAY/JUN 2009

ISSUE No. 76

Shops’ plea for help “WE NEED help and we need it quickly if the shops are to survive.”

Paris dancers A LOCAL dance teacher is taking a group of her pupils on the trip of a lifetime to perform at Disneyland Paris.

Bianca Zarcone of Bianca’s Dance Academy will be taking 35 students to Paris where they will perform a 20 minute routine.

Bianca (22) said: “It’s a magical place and the kids can’t wait to perform in front of people from all over Europe – they are so excited!”

The 34 girls and one boy will do a parade through the park on August 19 to promote the show, a mixture of street, cheer and modern dance which takes place the next day.

Bianca started her dance school in Rothley Village Hall five years ago with seven pupils – she now teaches almost every day of the week in Rothley, Quorn, Mountsorrel and Sileby.

To sponsor the trip you can contact Bianca on 07984 170873.

Pic: students of the Bianca Zarcone Dance Academy & (inset) Bianca Zarcone

Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 1

That was the message from a delegation of Rothley shopkeepers who met with local councillors Peter Osborne and Diane Wise in April.

Deborah Doyle, who has been trading from her shop Zebra on Woodgate for the last 13 years, said: “Morale is very low so I arranged this meeting so we could discuss what could be done, because something has to be done or there’ll be no village shops.”

Ideas put forward by the shopkeepers included: • better signage directing shoppers to the car park at the Rothley Centre • pavements on Woodgate made narrower to create more parking spaces • land opposite Bradleys converted into parking spaces • reduce size of Cross Green War Memorial where the seats are to create additional parkContinued on page 2

Shops continued from page 1 ing spaces • knock down garages on Greenway Close to create additional parking spaces • reverse direction of one-way on Woodgate • increase waiting limits for parking • street wardens to be more lenient issuing tickets Charnwood Borough Councillor Diane Wise said: “It was a positive meeting, these issues need discussing so we can see where we can move forward.

But I think some of the ideas aren’t practical.”

Representatives from the following businesses attended the meeting: Mercury News Shop, Enchanted Angel, Hartley Estates, Top Nails, Rothley Fisheries, Julie’s Hairdressing, Bradford & Bingley, Latimer Design, Dawn Newcome Hair, Bradleys, Zebra, Rothley Post Office.

The issues will be raised again at the annual meeting of Rothley Parish Council on May 15, 8pm at the Rothley Centre.

This is a public meeting with public participation.

Youth club may close ROTHLEY YOUTH Club may have to close due to a lack of support.

The portacabin on the Fowke Street playing field was opened two years ago but its future is uncertain because of a lack of resources and volunteer support.

The acting chair of Rothley Youth Project is volunteer Lesley Peasant. She said: “The club is still in its infancy and could either flourish and become a hive of activity centred around creating opportunities for our young people or fold due to lack of community support.”

Over the past two years since the club opened the project has been working with various statutory organisations, including the police to provide links and services for the young people. Also a grant from the Youth Opportunities fund was given to cover the staffing costs of an additional Tuesday night but this is due to run out in July this year.

She added: “I have been working with LCC Youth Service over the past 12 months and one outcome has been to develop links so that we can offer the Duke of Edinburgh Award to young people in the area.

Several members will be undertaking their Expedition this summer in the hope of completing their Bronze Award.”

The Rothley Youth Project will also be offering places on a Sports Leadership course from this month, with the support

Pic: Rothley Youth club on the Fowke St playing fields

of Pete Thorpe at Charnwood Arts.

“These are both very prestigious awards for young people and recognise many practical skills lacking in the GCSE assessments in school” says Lesley.

She added: “There is a huge lack of understanding and communication between us and the youth of today. The club offers us the opportunity to create ways to overcome these barriers and we would like to encourage more individuals to use what they do to help us bridge the gaps, whilst at the same time offer our young people some hope and self worth for the future in these times of financial uncertainty.”

Individuals, businesses or organisations that would like to help the project to develop further, can contact Lesley Peasant on 0116 2302234. Also any young person over the age of 14 who would like to take the Sports Leadership Award or find out more about the Duke of Edinburgh Award can contact Lesley.

The youth club is currently open term time for a two hour session on Tuesdays and Thursdays, staffed by county council youth workers. Around 10-15 young people attend.

The minimum age is 13.

Rotary Club collections MEMBERS OF both Soar Valley Rotary Club and Soar Valley Inner Wheel will be making collections for a number of charities at Wyevale Garden Centre, Rothley on Tuesdays throughout the summer.

Members will be collecting on April 28, May 19, June 16, July 28, August 25 from 10am each day. The benefiting charities include the Alzheimer’s Society, Macmillan Cancer Care, the Leics, Rutland and Derbyshire Air Ambulance and Prostaid.

Soar Valley Rotary Club would like to thank the manager and staff of Wyevale in Rothley for this opportunity and the facilities provided.

The next issue of

THE ROTHLEY POST will be published on Jun 27.

The copy deadline is Jun 12.

Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 2

Guides’ show THE DEDICATED service of two Guide leaders was celebrated with a performance of the musical Grease.

65 girls aged 7 to 17 from Thurcaston and Cropston Brownies, Guides and Rangers took part in the show, to mark the retirement of Chris Miranda and Pat Wilson.

Chris has been 1st Cropston Guides’ Unit Leader for 33 years and Pat has also been a Unit Leader for 14 years. Both are retiring having reached the age of 65.

Chris said: “The girls gave a magnificent performance enjoyed by both themselves, their relatives and friends.”

Chris, who has lived in Thurcaston since she was three, is a little sad to be retiring. “I’ll have to adapt to life without it, but I will be helping out a lot this term to support them” she said.

“Working with young people helps keep you young, I certainly don’t feel my age. I especially enjoyed all the outdoor activities and camping.”

Chris is particularly proud of the three Rangers who have gained their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award: Rebecca Langton, Georgia Walton and Eilidh Leitch. They will be presented with their awards at Buckingham Palace in June.

Pic: (above) the Pink Ladies with Rizzo: Millie Rushin, Elyce Shippam, Olivia Clarke, Katie Westmacott, Charlotte Wells and Tilly Wheeler. (top left) Natasha King as Danny (left) & Zoe Jarvis as Sandy

Pic: the cast of Grease

Emily Sutton, Lauren Rushin and Bethany Ruparelia.

The show raised £206 for Barnados.

Pic: Rebecca Langton, Roxanne Jelley, Georgia Walton and Eilidh Leitch

After the performance of Grease, which was directed by Brownie leader Louise Keran, five girls were presented with the Baden Powell Challenge Award, the highest award for a Guide: Hannah Grocock, Rebecca Pawley,

Driving ban ROTHLEY’S BAPTIST Minister has been banned from driving for 12 months.

Mark Chandler was found to have 73 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath when police tested him at midnight on March 9 – the legal limit is 35.

Rev Chandler pleaded guilty at Loughborough Magistrates Court on March 27 and was ordered to pay costs of £250 and attend a drink-driving course.

Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 3

For information about the Guides contact Chris on 2364293 or email cbm189@aol.com.

Meetings are on Wednesday evenings at Richard Hill School.

New homes for Rothley PLANNING PERMISSION to build 149 houses off Loughborough Road, Rothley has been granted by Charnwood Borough Council.

Councillors originally voted to refuse permission on February 19 but that decision was challenged by five councillors so the application was considered again on March 23 when the Regulatory Committee voted 7-5 to grant permission to Rothley Temple Estates and developers Charles Church.

Charnwood’s Planning Officers were recommending permission be granted as the proposed development conformed to Government guidance and met the requirements of the East Midlands Regional Plan and the Local Development Framework.

David Hankin is Charnwood’s Director of Development. In his report to the committee it states: “The site is within a service centre with good access to public services and public

transport. Links to the Centre of Rothley are relatively strong and will be strengthened by the integrated pedestrian links within the scheme within the proposal. Although it is recognised the site is outside the limits to development, this has to be balanced against the need for housing within the borough.”

Many Rothley residents objected to the proposal with more than 100 sending in letters of objection. Their principal concerns were changes to the character of the village, pressure on drains and sewers and transport problems.

Rothley Parish Councillor Peter Finch spoke at the meeting, objecting to the plans. He said: “Its largely the influence of the Government that has forced this thing upon us – I am very dissapointed.”

The development will require the construction of a 1000 square metre balancing pond to

store surface water drainage in periods of heavy rain. It will be located next to Hallfields Lane between the entrance to Brookfields Farm and 21a Hallfields Lane. A planning application for the balancing pond has been submitted to Charnwood.

Charnwood’s new leader TORY LED Charnwood Borough Council has replaced its leader following a vote at the Conservative group’s Annual General Meeting.

A secret ballot saw Cllr Richard Shepherd lose his leadership role and be replaced with Cllr Mike Preston, the lead member for Environment.

One of the factors behind the move was a critical report of the council published by the Audit Commission, an independent watchdog, in March.

It rated the Borough Council as “fair” following an inspection of its performance, but stated that there was “limited ambition” and “no overarching vision” of what it expects the borough to look like in the future.

The report said there was “little effective strategic leadership” by councillors or senior officers and that the senior management team “does not operate effectively and “drive the council forward”.

The report commended the council’s efforts to create cleaner streets, its good recycling and waste collections and the work it has done ensuring disadvantaged neighbourhoods and homelessness was addressed.

New leader Cllr Mike Preston will take over on May 11. He is reported as saying: “We need to change the way we are doing things. In two years time we want to have some objectives that we have met. One of the problems we are facing is ways to save money and we should save money on the internal services rather than external like waste and dustbin collections. Look inside any organisation and there are people you could restructure or not replace.”

The Council is facing a £2.6million shortfall in its finances for 2010/11 and is trying to finalise a deal to outsource services.

Personal trainer A PERSONAL TRAINER based in Rothley is offering your first two personal training sessions free of charge.

Imogen Gordon-Stables says: “You can’t just work up a sweat now and then and expect brilliant results, so I personalise my programmes and make them fun to help the client get on track with their goals and achieve them. Each client is unique in their requirements so I need to offer personal solutions.”

For more details go to www.imogym.com, or ring Imogen on 07841 437741 or email imogen@imo-gym.com Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 4

GCR’s war event THIS YEAR’S Great Central Railway Wartime Event on June 13-14 will commemorate the 65th anniversary of the Normandy landings.

This historic event will be supported by the Royal British Legion with a ‘poppy drop’ during the weekend and a special church parade service on Sunday at 10.30am at Quorn. The service will be attended by the Mayor and Assistant Lord Lieutenant as well as PM Churchill and Generals Eisenhower and Montgomery.

Loughborough and Quorn will portray the home front with a large display of military/vintage vehicles and artillery as well as a mix of Allied Troops, 40s entertainment and refreshments.

Rothley and Leicester North will be occupied

by Axis forces who will stage a series of battles and skirmishes with the Allies while Rene’s café will serve refreshments.

The ‘Battle of Britain Memorial Event’ will fly over the area during the weekend and there will be an opportunity for people who have lost relatives in conflict to show their respects in a small garden of remembrance at Quorn.

For more information please contact Mike Batten on 01509 230089.

Enjoy cricket & drinks ROTHLEY PARK Cricket Club welcomes thirsty villagers to come and enjoy a drink while watching the local teams play cricket.

“Every Saturday either the first or second team is playing at home and on Sundays and most evenings during the summer there are junior matches you are welcome to come and watch” said Wayne Richardson, Pavilion Manager and Club Chairman. “We have recently extended the front of the pavilion with decking to provide an attractive player and spectator

area and with a selection of beers, lagers, wines and soft drinks available, what better way to enjoy the summer!” he added.

Rothley Park Cricket Club has thriving junior teams for children of ages 7 to 17.

For further information about how to get your child involved please call Steve Thomason on 0116 230 4467 or come down to practice nights on Fridays from 6pm.

Pic: Rothley Park Cricket Club’s extended pavilion and new electronic scorebox

New after-school club A NEW after school club has opened in Rothley.

Working mum Claire Parker struggled to get childcare for her daughter after-school in Rothley last year, so following conversations with the staff at Rothley Primary School and parents whose children attended the school, decided to apply to Ofsted and open an after-school club in the village.

Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 5

‘School’s Out’ opened on April 20, four afternoons per week until 6pm. They collect children from Rothley Primary School and provide a safe and fun atmosphere for children up to 11 years of age until their parents collect them.

If you would like any more information, or to book your child in for a free trial session, please call Claire on 07879 676025.

Parish Council notes A FULL meeting of Rothley Parish Council was held on March 16.

PC Steve Rhodes reported that three breakins had resulted in three arrests and that there had been no problems of antisocial behaviour on School Street reported recently.

It was agreed to spend £350 on a bench for installation opposite Babington Court.

It was reported that Charnwood have partially removed graffiti from the Fowke Street youth shelter and the Rothley Imps Junior clubhouse.

It was reported that the Youth Centre on the Fowke Street playing fields will open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from March 16.

It was agreed to donate £500 towards the Rothley Baptist Church pipe organ refurbishment, which is expected to cost £10,000.

A full meeting of Rothley Parish Council was held on April 20.

PC Steve Rhodes reported that burglars had stolen a computer from Rothley school. There have been very few reports of antisocial behaviour in the last two months, he said, especially compared to this time last year.

PC Rhodes reported that he was looking for somewhere in the village that he could use as an office – to use a computer and store a bike.

The council agreed to donate £50 towards

Charnwood’s Community Shield football tournament for young people organised by PC Gordon Doudie and held at the Soar Valley Centre.

Comment was made that residents of Hallfields Lane were pleased with the new speed cushions as they were reducing vehicle speeds but feedback from other residents had been less positive.

It was agreed to spend £851 on a barrier to prevent vehicle access near to the Fowke Street playing field skateboard park.

It was agreed to spend £470 on clearing up the ground to the rear of the football pavilion on the Fowke Street playing field, and £275 on a concrete litter bin.

Rothley Bowls Club have asked for the Council’s help with the large number of rabbits on the bowling green.

A FULL meeting of Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council was held on February 19.

It was agreed to report some frost damage to the road surface on Leicester Road to the County Council.

The Council agreed to the transfer of cemetery land from Charnwood Borough Council to Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council.

It was reported that a public meeting to

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discuss the concerns of residents about the crossroad junction of Station Road with Reservoir Road was to be held at the Wheatsheaf Inn on February 23.

A Cropston resident has written to complain about an increase in dog fouling, graffiti and litter in the parish.

The Council agreed to contact neighbouring residents about their proposal to erect a bus shelter on Leicester Road near the junction with Anstey Lane.

A full meeting of Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council was held on March 19.

PC Rhodes reported that following a consultation with the public their main concerns for the parish were speeding and graffiti.

CSO Alex Foster reported that he had spent 50 minutes observing the Stop sign at the junction of Reservoir Road and Station Road and noted that 52% of vehicles did not stop, 26% of vehicles slowed down and 22% stopped. 10 of the 71 cars which failed to stop were spoken to by police.

The clerk was instructed to obtain costs for a dog warden service.

The Council agreed to apply for a licence to site a bus shelter on Leicester Road after their consultation produced no response.

Council’s budget deficit CHARNWOOD BOROUGH Council is facing a budget deficit as the recession bites.

In a statement the Leader of the Council, Cllr Richard Shepherd said: “Falling income from interest on investments and fee earning services balanced against the escalating costs in the delivery of some services, amongst other pressures, means that we face a budget deficit.”

He added: “We will, over the next six months, be investigating a number of options to address the projected deficit including a service review programme which will look critically at potential service reductions and opportunities for efficiency savings across the whole council. It is anticipated that this programme could lead to up to 30 redundancies.

“Obviously throughout this difficult period we will be working closely with our staff and trades unions to keep them fully informed at all times.”

Economic Indicators • Average house prices for December 2008 were £119,310 in Leicester city and £152,000 in the county. This is a decrease of 10.1% in the city and 11.7% in the county from October 2007 prices.

• The total number of people claiming Job Seekers Allowance in Leicestershire is 19,022 in January 2009 compared to 12,129 in January 2008.

• NEET (Not in Employment, Education or Training) The numbers of 16-18 year old NEET in January was 4.4% in the county and 8.5% in the city. In the county, Charnwood has the highest proportion NEET • For more details: www.charnwoodbusiness.com/downturnupdate.html or www.lrs-online.org

Amelia wins gold WHEN 13 YEAR OLD Rothley Scout Amelia Yeomans received her Chief Scouts Gold Award badge her whole family turned up to support her.

All are Scouts/Leaders in the Charnwood Scout District. The badge was presented by the Charnwood District Commissioner, Mrs Carol Black and is the highest award a scout under the age of 14 can earn. It involved her taking part in camping, cooking IT skills, dinghy sailing, off-road cycling, rifle shooting, archery, stallholding, emergency aid, motor mechanic, music, skiing and regular attendance at her troop’s weekly meetings. Group Scout Leader Ron Bromley said: “Amelia has been busy enjoying herself and now has the badge to prove it. Well done!”

Pic: (l-r) Mrs Jacqueline Yeomans, Amelia Yeomans, Heather Yeomans and Mr Bill Yeomans

Olympic tickets TICKETS ARE now on sale for the opening ceremony of the 8th Special Olympics GB National Summer Games on July 25 at the Leicester City Football Club’s Walker Stadium.

Organisers are promising a special event

GCR’s plans to extend track PLANS TO restore 17 miles of railway track, north towards Nottingham and south towards Leicester, have been announced by the GCR and Charnwood Borough Council.

Transport consultancy firm Atkins have been appointed to carry out a feasibility study into the plan using a £300,000 grant from the East Midlands Development Agency.

The anticipated cost of the project is in the region of £35million and has the support of Network Rail, Lafarge Aggregates and British Gypsum.

The GCR’s ‘Bridging the Gap’ scheme is complex and involves seven projects. These include building a bridge to re-lay a missing 500 metre section of track near Loughborough Railway Station, and the creation of an engineering centre of excellence that would have a heritage, education, business and engineering capacity along the lines of the National Railway Museum at York.

The aim of the Atkins study is to prove the commercial case for the project. It will be completed in October and will include a consultation period when there will be a chance for local residents to have their say.

Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 7

with a carnival atmosphere and unique celebrations. Highlights of the night include the parade of 2700 athletes from across the country competing in the games and the torch lighting of the Special Olympic flame.

The event starts at 6.30pm and ticket prices are over 16 yrs £5, under 16 £1. Child tickets only available with purchase of one adult ticket. Tickets are available from Leicester City Football Club’s ticket office on 0844 815 5000, email: ticket.sales@lcfc.co.uk

Stroke Travel adventures club ‘FROM COCONUTS to Condors’ relates the adventures of a Cropston couple during an event filled three week trip to South America.

Author Valerie Astill and her husband David made the trip 10 years ago and Valerie kept a diary.

“Almost every day something unexpected happened” she said, such as sleeping in a blood spattered hotel, being served inedible llama meat and fizzy fruit salad, and being stoned by youths during a city walking tour.

The trip included visits to Rio de Janiero, Salvador de Bahia, the Pantanal nature reserve, the Andes, Lake Titicaca, La Paz and the Amazon rainforest.

‘From Coconuts to Condors’ is Valerie’s first book and cost £7.99. It can be ordered from any bookshop or online from Amazon from Pneuma Springs Publishing

A CLUB that welcomes any Charnwood resident affected by stroke celebrated its 30th birthday in April.

Charnwood Stroke club provides the chance for members to form friendships with other members with similar problems and also gives carers a much needed break. The Club originally met on Wednesdays at John Storer House, Wards End, Loughborough but in 1982 due to increase in numbers, the Club split into two groups held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays – each group with its own organiser. In 1988, the club moved to its current meeting place - the Beale room at St Peters Community Centre on Storer Road, Loughborough.

Local food festival MAPPING LOCAL Food Webs is a unique project aiming to engage the skills and knowledge of local people in order to explore the social, economic and environmental impacts of local food networks, from producer through to consumer.

It is being led by the Campaign to Protect Rural England and will take place in 32 towns/cities across the country, one of the first of which is the Birstall area of Leicester.

Part of the project is to survey public awareness and opinions on buying locally produced food. David Rose, Mapping Local Food Webs East Midlands Co-ordinator, and three volunteers took the opportunity to carry out such a survey at Pick’s Farm Open Day, Barky Thorpe on Sunday April 5. 35 visitors completed a questionnaire, these were put into a raffle, that was drawn on the day, with the winner receiving a £50 food hamper provided

by CPRE from Pick’s farm shop. The project organisers are putting on a free Local Food Festival at Birstall Village Hall on Saturday May 30 from 10am to 1pm.

The next issue of

THE ROTHLEY POST will be published on Jun 27.

The copy deadline is Jun 12.

Pic: Members of Charnwood Stroke Club playing dominoes The two group organisers arrange many events for club members including guest speakers, video shows, quizzes, keep-fit sessions, dominoes and bingo. Coach outings have included visits to Bakewell, Willersley Castle, Meadowhall, Ulverscroft Grange and Manor, and Barwell Indoor Bowls Club amongst others.

Also ever popular is the Peter-le-Marchant canal boat trip.

The club runs from 9.30am until 2pm and provides lunch in the form of sandwiches or soup and other tasty treats, such as bangers & mash, fish & chips and even pancakes on Shrove Tuesday – for which there is a small charge to cover the cost of the food.

The club is staffed by volunteers and new volunteers are always welcome whether to sit and play dominoes, help in the kitchen or push a wheelchair on a coach outing. The club is self-funding and supported entirely by the members themselves and by voluntary contributions. Donations are always welcome.

If you would like to join the club, become a volunteer, make a donation or generally contact the club for more information, then please ring Jennie on 0774 759 8460.

The club is looking forward to celebrating future landmark birthdays with new members.

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Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 8

Club’s new decking ROTHLEY TENNIS Club have invested in a brand new decking area that will give their club members and visitors the opportunity to watch matches in comfort.

Built by local company George Walkers Ltd, the decking area is 96 square metres in size and was constructed from Swedish Redwood.

Club spokeswoman Melinda Wilson said: “Not only has it provided a large area to place seating on, it has a clever design which sees tiered seats incorporated into one side, offering everyone an uninterrupted view. Laid at the start of the tennis season it is hoped that the coming summer will allow the decking area to be used to its full potential.”

Pic: The new decking area overlooking the courts at Rothley Tennis club

Rothley church appoints two new wardens STEVE THOMASON and Fred Sleath have been appointed Church Wardens at the Parish Church in Rothley for 2009.

Steve is Managing Director of Agora Marketing Communications based in the village and in his spare time manages the junior cricket sides and co-organises the annual charity cricket match at Rothley Park Cricket Club.

The club will now be actively engaged in fundraising as future plans will see the addition of a gazebo to give protection on sunny days or inclement weather.

Melinda added: “The new decking will stand it in good stead as Rothley Tennis club are well placed to provide an exciting season of summer tennis with the men’s 1st team currently in the premiership, the ladies 1st team in group 3a and a further 12 teams competing in other groups within the Leicestershire league. Anyone interested in joining this progressive club

Pic: View from the courts showing the tiered seating

can contact us on 0775 783 3360 for further information.”

The club would welcome offers of sponsorship from companies seeking to promote their business at one of the top clubs in Leicestershire.

Coffee cash THE COFFEE morning held at the Rothley Methodist Church, Howe Lane, on Saturday March 14 raised £350 for the Mablethorpe Children’s Home.

The organisers would like to thank everyone for their help, support and generosity.

Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 9

Fred provides osteopathic care from his Woodgate Clinic and is a long standing member of the Wreake Valley Rotary Club. He is also a keen swimmer and cyclist raising money for various charities including the Hope Foundation.

Pic: Steve Thomason (left) and Fred Sleath

NHW news Visit local gardens & crime report

WE HAD some good results in February as a result of an eagle eyed resident on Mountsorrel Lane contacting the police when he saw a couple of suspicious characters.

The police attended and arrested them for burglary – one is now in prison.

After a burglary on February 16 another person was arrested after a phone call from a resident.

These two incidents show the value of reporting suspicious people or vehicles.

From PC Steve Rhodes 0544 Crime Report, Feb 1 – Apr 28, 2009 Rothley: burglary 5, burglary other 6, damage 7, theft of vehicle 1, theft from vehicle 6, theft 10 Thurcaston: theft from vehicle 1, burglary other 1 Cropston: theft from vehicle 3, burglary 1, burglary other 1, theft of Rothley, Thurcaston & vehicle 1, damage 1 Cropston’s PC Steve Rhodes

GARDENS IN Thurcaston and Cropston will be open to visitors in June.

For the last two years Richard Hill School PTA have organised an Open Gardens weekend. Spokeswoman Linda Bennett said: “These have been a great success and much appreciated by many members of the community as well as raising funds for the school. We are therefore trying to make this an annual event and this year it will take place over the weekend of Saturday and Sunday June 27 and 28.”

She added: “This year will see a slight change in that gardens in Thurcaston will be open on the Saturday 27 and gardens in Cropston on Sunday 28. We hope to have at least ten in each village of varying types – family gardens, a Japanese garden, and a water garden to name a few, as well as a plant swap. Do come along and join in this great community weekend.”

The organisers are still looking for volunteers to open their gardens – contact Linda on 2363872.

Entrance will cost £4 per person, accompanied children are free and tickets will be valid for both days. They will be available on the day from either

Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 10

the gardens themselves or from Richard Hill School, Anstey Lane, Thurcaston. To purchase tickets in advance please contact richardhillpta@aol.com Other activities will also be taking place that weekend – the Richard Hill School Summer Fair will be on the Saturday afternoon with cream teas, stalls, games and bouncy slide.

In addition the Thurcaston Cub group will be washing cars on the Saturday from 9am to 6pm in the Wheatsheaf pub car park in Thurcaston. Anyone is welcome to drop in to get their car washed for £3.50.

For more details of this weekend please contact richardhillpts@aol.com or phone the PTA on 0116 2362503.

WI news THE SOUND of “Ghosties and ghoulies and long legged beasties and things that go bump in the night….” is probably not what most folk would consider to be a typical afternoon WI meeting.

However for the members of Rothley WI the March meeting seemed to go very much with a swing and everyone appeared to be thoroughly fascinated listening to such tales of our local countryside as told by the talented David Bell from Ashby de la Zouch. Probably most of the group would by now recommend David to anyone wishing to listen to tales of haunted buildings, myths, monsters, legends and strange sightings of mysterious creatures within these county boundaries!

Entitled ‘Leicestershire and Rutland, Ghosts and Legends’ David treated us to tales of Black Annis a cave dweller with blue skin, huge talons and a single eye placed at the centre of her forehead. We heard of Joan Flower, ‘Witch of Langham’ with daughters Margaret and Phillipa who were both executed at Lincoln Prison in the seventeenth century, and Joan also died in Lincoln prison but before the executioner could get to her. ‘Bell the Giant’ who mounted a ‘Sorrel horse’ claimed he could clear Rothley in ‘one-leap’ [now Wanlip] and thus on to ‘burst-all ‘ [Birstall] subsequently after dying from injuries received in the attempt [along with his poor horse!] he was buried in ‘Bells grave’ now known as Belgrave . Retired teacher David Bell has written numerous books on a variety of subjects including crime, horror, science and local history books and is as much at home on local radio as he is telling such tales to local community groups.

He certainly created for us an afternoon with a thought provoking difference on a rather cool March day.

“North over South and East over West, North over South and East over…. “and so on; these were mumbled and repeated tones heard at the Rothley Centre on the first of April as members of the Rothley WI settled down to concentrate on a masterpiece in corn, well – at least…. ‘having-a-go’!

Following clear instructions and under the gentle guidance of ‘Corn Dolly’ expert Judy Marshall everyone was soon chasing a ‘chain’

of plaited corn which on completion was then twisted into a circle and tied with a pretty ribbon and it has to be said that the ‘spirit of the corn’ was most certainly alive and buzzing in Rothley with our members at that meeting!

Judy, wife of a Leicestershire farmer, once attended a workshop on Corn Dollies, had a go at making one herself and was immediately hooked on the craft. That was 20 years ago and it is quite evident from the huge display of her work that Judy thoroughly enjoys her hobby and passing her expertise onto the uninitiated. We learned of the Pagan, or maybe even older, ritual of twisting or plaiting the last pieces of straw at close of harvest in the hope that the ‘spirit of the corn’ will ensure a healthy and bumper harvest for the following season. The word Corn Dolly is considered, in some circles, a corruption of the word idol which today is woven into a variety of different, simple or quite complex pieces of folk craft and can be found inhabiting so many buildings from castles to cottages. Counties will traditionally have their own particular design varying considerably in shape and size. Even the choice of colour for the ribbon to tie onto the completed item traditionally has its meaning, i.e. red representing the poppies in the corn field, brown for mother earth, gold for the ripened crop, blue for truth and cornflower and so on. Whilst Judy told the members of the history of this fascinating craft she created in no time at all a delightful little mouse from just two strands of straw. At the close of meeting members were invited to take a closer look at the vast display and purchase items if they wished. It has to be said that Rothley WI members would not hesitate to recommend Judy Marshal to any community group since it was such an entertaining, educational and to some a very therapeutic afternoon. Incidentally, not many of the members went home without their very own creation of the lovers loop!

The June meeting for RWI will bring us ‘An Introduction to the Many Uses of Herbs’ with Lynn Tan-Watson. This is an open meeting and members will be looking forward to meeting you at Rothley Centre Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley, Wednesday 3rd June 2009, 2 -4.30pm.

Anyone interested in becoming a member and joining us at the Rothley WI - please visit http://www.thewi.org.uk/178 or tel; 0116 266 1342. We meet first Wednesday each month, 2-4.30pm Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley.

From Maureen Bulmer, Rothley WI

For the April meeting Mrs Brenda Woodings gave a talk entitled: ‘To be a Farmer’s Wife’.

She explained that she and her husband worked a farm just outside Snibston, that had been in the family since 1928.

She started by reading a job advertisement from ‘The Farmer’. The hours 7am to 10pm, seven days a week and whenever called upon.

She reckoned that to be connected to agriculture one needed to be round the bend but not to worry about this qualification because successful applicants soon achieve the necessary standard. Don’t get excited about romance, she said. You will never be top priority,

OUR SPEAKER for the March meeting of Thurcaston & Cropston WI was Mr Norman Harrington who entertained us with his poetry and humour.

Mr Harrington is a well known local poet, who over the years has also been involved with the Latimer Players. He recited a wide range of his works from the nostalgic to the humorous.

The poem based on Rudyard Kipling’s ‘If’ was extremely funny, whist another entitled ‘Connie’ was very poignant. He interspersed his poetry with witty anecdotes, the ones about a BBC Newsreader and the Celestial court stood out in particular.

The evening was a great success, everyone appreciated the hard work of this talented poet and humorist.

Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 11

but you may be second depending on the quality of the dog!

By this time her audience was a heap of giggles but the tales came pouring out. She was accosted by the police one dark night when out rounding up some escaped beasts, wearing her nightie and Wellingtons. She is sure that farmers’ children are a race apart being born wearing a cap, wellies and carrying a stick.

Finally, on a serious note, Brenda emphasised our need of our farmers, who look after our beautiful countryside, feeding our minds and souls, and growing the food to feed out

WI continued from page 11 bodies. She stressed the importance that we aim to buy local produce of quality and with animal husbandry of the highest standard.

Look for the little red tractor.

On April 23, St George’s Day, the WI ran a Taste and Try in the village hall. This event was a sell out and everyone seemed to enjoy the 17 different goodies available for tasting. We enjoyed Jackie Partners dexterity and ideas as she demonstrated wrapping parcels and finally, we had Mrs Dorothy Budd doing a flower arrangement with a difference; shall we say with enthusiasm and joy rather than a conservative approach.

From Lisa Diggle

Planning November Cottage, 92 Rectory Lane, Thurcaston – fell No 9x conifer trees and No 1x ash tree 142 Station Road, Cropston – erection of single storey extension to rear of dwelling 19 Rectory Lane, Thurcaston – erection of two storey extension to front of dwelling 6 Bradgate Road, Cropston – demolition & replacement of existing side extension, conversion of garage to living accommodation and erection of two storey extensions to the side and rear

14 Rectory Lane, Thurcaston – erection of single storey extension to rear of dwelling 90 Swithland Lane, Rothley – change in materials of roof on single storey extension to rear from “Green roof” to single ply membrane 75 The Ridings, Rothley – erection of single and two storey extensions to side and rear and pitched roof dormer extensions to front of dwelling Millfield, 9 Church Street, Rothley – pollarding of 1 willow tree Rothley Church of England Primary School, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley – installation of a double mobile classroom Brookfield Farm, 5 Hallfields Lane, Rothley – formation of balancing pond with associated landscape works Royal Oak, 14 Cross Green, Rothley – installation of new timber framed sliding glazed doors and erection of new disabled access ramp to rear The Croft, 90 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley – erection of two storey extension to front and single storey extension to rear of dwelling

Guided walk programme A NEW brochure detailing picturesque walks in Charnwood could help residents take great steps to an active lifestyle.

Guided Walks In and Around Charnwood 2009 contains a total of 79 strolls between two and six miles long for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Taking place between Monday April 20 until Wednesday, December 16 the walks take in a variety of locations across the borough and taking part is the perfect way of getting the recommended 30 minutes of exercise a day.

Regular walking can reduce the risk of

The next issue of

THE ROTHLEY POST will be published on Jun 27.

The copy deadline is Jun 12.

coronary heart disease, diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure, some cancers, osteoporosis and arthritis. Cllr Peter Lewis, Charnwood Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure, said: “Health isn’t just a matter of physical fitness. Mental fitness is equally important. Take time to step out of your car and engage directly with nature all around. These walks create a wonderful opportunity to be mindful about how fortunate we are in Charnwood. And because you are doing it in fellowship with others, then fresh conversation and new friendships can be an unexpected bonus.

These get more popular every year. Don’t miss it!”

Free copies of the booklet are available from Charnwood Borough Council’s Southfields office, Loughborough Leisure Centre, Soar Valley Leisure Centre, South Charnwood Swimming Pool, Loughborough Town Hall and Charnwood Museum. Alternatively, copies can be sent out to interested residents in the post by calling Charnwood’s Leisure Services team on 01509 634 836. It can also be viewed online by logging on to www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages/walkingforheal th Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 12

Bradgate Sewing Circle BRADGATE SEWING Circle continues to flourish as a patchwork and quilting group, still attracting new members and with an ongoing waiting list.

We would especially welcome younger members who may be interested in sewing, or learning to expand their sewing knowledge, perhaps with a view to making, say a quilt for their young children. We are very much a self help group with mixed levels of ability and interest.

Basic patchwork is not difficult, but can become a consuming hobby, and once the urge to collect cotton fabrics takes hold, large cupboards become a necessity! Anyone who feels they might be interested and would like to see what we do is welcome to call and see us at the Rothley Centre on a Tuesday (9.30am-ll.30).

As always our excess output (patchworkers find it hard to stop sewing) raises funds in excess of our requirements and this year we have been pleased to donate £250 to the local Alzheimers Society. Amanda Bee who accepted on behalf of the Society assures us that our

Pic: Rona Baxter (right) presents a cheque to Amanda Bee of the Alzheimers Society donation will be spent locally. Also Barbara Parish from the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance, which is celebrating its first year as a new organisation, accepted our donation of £250 of their behalf. We have continued to make tiny baby quilts, over 100 so far, (15" square) for the premature baby incubators at the neo-natal unit at the General Hospital, as well as cot quilts for Glenfield Paediatric Cardiology ward, and many left over small pieces of fabric have been found suitable

Airport bus service PEOPLE LIVING near Birstall now benefit from 24 hour access to East Midlands Airport with the Leicester Skylink.

The new bus service began on 1 April and operates hourly, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from St Margaret’s Bus Station, stopping at Abbey Lane and in Birstall at the Sibson Road corner before continuing on to Loughborough and the airport. The Skylink bus then continues onto Derby, serving Castle Donington and Shardlow.

The fares are £6 adult single, £10 adult return, £10 family return valid for a family/group of five (maximum two adults). Regular travellers can purchase an easycard from the Skylink driver priced at £21 valid for 10 journeys.

For timetable and route information please visit skylink.co.uk or call Kinchbus on 01509 815637.

Award winner A LOCAL deliverer of organic food is celebrating after his company was voted by the public as the best organic retailer.

Birstall’s Jit Parekh, who delivers Riverford organic produce in Leicestershire, said: “We’re really delighted to win this award and would like to thank our customers for their support and votes.”

Organic box scheme Riverford won ‘Best Organic Retailer’ in the National and Organic Awards, sponsored by the Soil Association. It delivers to 45,000 customers each week.

Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 13

for drainage bags for use by surgical patients on the Breast Care Ward at Glenfield. If possible, nothing goes to waste.

We shall be having our bi-annual Christmas Sale on Saturday, 14th November 2009, in the Rothley Centre with our usual Christmas gift stalls, cards, cakes, and others including gifts for men, and one especially for children reasonably priced for them to buy. A notice will appear nearer the time.

From Pat Gourlay.

Open gardens Rothley Recycling changes in Quorn man jailed

‘OPEN GARDENS’ is a firm fixture of the village calendar in Quorn, giving visitors the chance to admire the village, visit a wide range of interesting gardens of all sizes, and pay a visit to the Quorn Food and Craft Festival.

The gardens will be open from 2-6pm on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 May. The gardens open reflect the varied nature of Quorn, with small cottage gardens through to rolling acres open to the public. Passports cost £3.50.

The Quorn Food and Craft Festival is for local food suppliers and crafters, and introduces visitors to Open Gardens to quality products available in the area. Refreshments will be available at the Festival. It will be open from 11am to 5.30pm in the Village Hall, so you can shop before lunching at the Festival or in one of Quorn’s many restaurants and bars, in preparation for strolling round the village. Alternatively you can call in at the Food and Craft Festival as part of your walk around the gardens.

Plant stalls and refreshments will be found at selected gardens, and teas will be served at Holloway House (Abbeyfield)and at Allen House (Quorn Scout HQ).

The 2009 Quorn Open Gardens is being run by The Quorndon, the village magazine for Quorn and surrounding hamlets and is raising money for Rainbows Hospice and STOPS (the campaign to Save the Old Primary School as a community facility for the village).

A ROTHLEY man with 52 previous convictions pleaded guilty to the attempted burglary of a Mountsorrel Lane pensioner.

Christopher Keating (33) of Babington Road, was caught with a crowbar at the home of the 70 year old. Police were alerted when a neighbour spotted Keating acting suspiciously and called the police. They found a window had been broken and a door forced but Keating had been unable to gain entry.

The pensioner was in hospital with a broken hip when the attempted break-in took place.

Keating was jailed for a year at Leicester Crown Court.

Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 14

ONE RECYCLING bag will replace the red and green bags from August 1.

The changes are a result of a bid by Charnwood Borough Council to simplify the recycling service and save money by awarding the contract for waste, recycling and street cleaning to Serco Integrated Services.

The new seven year contract is worth £32 million and comes into effect on August 1.

In 2011, further improvements to the waste and recycling collection methods will be introduced, meaning residents will be able to use a wheelie bin to put all their recycling in rather than bags.

Charnwood say an enhanced street cleaning service will also be introduced to provide residents with a cleaner borough and that the new contract will generate savings of £2.4m for the Council in the first two years.

Chris Traill, Charnwood Borough Council’s Director of Leisure and Environment, said: “This is a significant achievement for Charnwood in terms of value for money and upholding and striving for new levels of excellence and quality on waste collection, recycling and street cleaning services. There are real savings to be achieved from this new contract, which we can use to enable investment in other services and to keep costs down for the customer.”

Serco’s successful bid was helped by the introduction of a number of innovations developed in response to residents’ needs and include: • making recycling easier with a view to increasing the borough’s recycling rate to 50% • the use of revolutionary electric vehicles, bio-fuels and additives to help cut carbon emissions from the service by 40% • targeted initiatives designed to engage the student community in environmental issues and the recycling agenda.

Mike Brown, Serco’s Chief Executive, added: “This contract is of strategic importance to Serco as it further extends our environmental services business and builds upon the existing relationship Serco already has with the Council.”

David Hayes, Charnwood’s Interim Waste Manager, said: “We have no arrangements with Serco to introduce chipped bins nor have we had any discussions about measures to penalise residents for not recycling. Our approach is to encourage and promote recycling, not to enforce it.”

Mr Hayes said Charnwood did not know at this stage if the existing 240 litre wheelie bin was going to be reduced in size to 180 litres in 2011, nor could he say what size the wheelie bin for recycled waste would be.

Serco has also committed to growing the Council’s garden waste scheme and more emphasis will be placed on the re-use of bulky household waste, such as furniture and white goods.

To find out more about recycling and waste collections in Charnwood, log on to www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages/recycling

History Society news DID YOU know that the phrase “Watch The Birdie” originated with the sitter really having to watch a bird in a cage. Now there was something I had never realised and something I learned from our speaker in March.

We were very pleased to welcome Roger Bradley, who came to tell us about his collection of cameras. What an extremely pleasant man he is, as also is his delightful wife, Daniele who accompanied him.

This talk was very much his personal view of the history of photography and he aptly demonstrated this with his most fascinating collection of old cameras, of which there was a large selection. We were shown examples of cameras made of different materials and using different formats, going back in age to the largest – the sort where the photographer put a sheet over his head, and the smallest ”THE HIT” which is about 2” square in its own leather case. Other cameras that Roger had brought to show us included “The Brick” and “The Envoy Wide Angle”. We also heard about various secret “spy” cameras, such as one that fitted into a satchel, into a book and even fitted onto a bicycle!

Of course we all knew that the Kodak camera was invented by George Eastman, but did we know that they cost 5 guineas in the UK in 1888, quite a lot of money? The drawback being that one had to take 100 pictures before sending the camera back to the factory for the film to be processed and replaced with a new one. Nowadays we still have those sort of “throw-away” cameras and they cost less. I always keep one in the car – just in case!

What a collection of fantastic objects Roger had brought to show us. Quite apart from the cameras there were old photographs, pictures and a fascinating assortment of projects that Roger had specially prepared for us to see and with which we were delighted, including “pin hole” photographs. During the holidays I am going to try that with my various grand-children – perhaps I had better start practising.

We looked at the calotype photography which was patented by William Fox Talbot in 1841, and the work of Anna Atkins who used the cyanotype process and even produced books of her algae photographs, one of which is in the Bradford Media Museum.

I, along with others, was intrigued by the two little tooled leather wallets which contained a mirror picture. It was Louis Daguerre, around 1839, who developed and perfected this type of photography, on silver coated metal, a photograph of which there was only one copy. These Daguerreotypes give an almost magical appearance.

We also envied the cartes de visite of which about 400,000,000. were evidently sold in the Britain in the mid 1860's. Some of them were trade advertising cards, but Oh! that we too could have such elegant visiting cards.

It was interesting to learn that the first photographer in Leicester was a Mr. T. Chapman Browne, whose address was “Bible and Crown”, 39 Market Place. His trade sign shows that he was not only a photographer but also a printer, stationer, bookbinder and seller of books, prints and music.

One of the best early photographers was John Burton who, in 1874 had his 5 storey premises on the Haymarket opposite The Clock Tower. He also claimed to be an artist.

Another early photographer was WW Winter whose home and studio in Derby dates back to 1867. The studio still exists under the same name, and still as a photographers.

Our thanks go to Roger for a very fascinating lecture and so much enjoyed by our members.

To conclude I must include a few of the comments I received from our audience: “One of the most interesting lectures we have had, a brilliant speaker with a broad view of the subject, and not too technical” “Very interesting, much better than anticipated”, “Such an array of cameras, I didn't realise how many makes there were”. “What a lot of trouble he had taken preparing things for us”. “He hit just the right note at the right level, easily understandable and moved on well with a good variety of slides and topics”.

Our speaker in April was Fred Hartley of Leicestershire Museums, whose talk was entitled “Clocks in the Leicestershire Museum Collections” and concentrated mainly on the Long Case Clocks made by local clock makers in Leicestershire, and how interesting it was to learn just how many of them there were!

The talk started with a brief introduction of the earlier exponents of clocks. In 1580 the Astronomer Galileo discovered the rate of motion of a hanging chain or pendulum, in 1640 he designed a clock mechanism incorporating the swing of a pendulum, but he died before building his clock. Then in 1656 Christian Huygens added a pendulum to a clock mechanism of his own design and found it kept excellent time.

The English clockmaker William Clement is credited with the clock development in 1670, and it was the English clockmakers who reigned supreme in Europe from about 1660 until the 19th Century.

All the early clockmakers were blacksmiths, who in the villages, made and repaired the church clocks.

The Leicestershire collection not only contains Long Case Clocks, but also includes Turret clocks from churches in the county, one example being from Kirby Muxloe, and Barrack, or bracket, clocks.

In 1997 Leicester City split with Leicester County, and collections were put in separate storage. The clocks of Leicestershire became part of the Leicestershire museums, and have been kept in store since that time. Occasionally some of them are used for exhibitions or are on loan to offices.

We learned that the clockmakers in Leicestershire have been listed, the list having been added to through the years. The first list gave Continued on page 16

Birstall Methodist Church’s

GARDEN TRAIL Visit gardens in Curzon Ave, Roman Road area of Birstall.

Saturday & Sunday 13th & 14th June 2009 2.00pm - 5.30pm

In Aid of the Multiple Sclerosis

& Church funds

MOT VEHICLE TESTING STATION

TESTING

PETROLS • DIESELS MOTORCYCLES CROPSTON GARAGE 37 - 39 Station Road Cropston, Leicester 0116 2362363 Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 15

Birstall

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Continued from page 15 67 Leicestershire Clockmakers, by 1951 the Leicestershire Archaeology Report lists 144, by 1975 they had discovered the names of 220 makers.

Some of these worked in the city of Leicester and it is obvious that they must have been very busy, but how did the clockmakers in the small villages manage to make a living? For instance there was William Bird at Seagrave, the Baker family at Appleby in 1775, and Thomas French of Kibworth 1835. There was a female clockmaker by the name of Sarah Newman at Ashby. It is thought that she probably took over the business when her husband died. Also Thomas Kelham, in 1732, whose clock dial was made of Swithland slate with the case of dark pine.

Why are Long Case Clocks known as Grandfather Clocks? During the 19th Century, two brothers named Jenkins worked as Managers at the George Hotel in Piercebridge. One of the brothers died and; according to the story told to the composer, Henry Clay Work: in 1875 the clock began to lose time. Repair attempts were made by the hotel staff and local clockmakers, but failed. When the other brother died at the age of 90, the clock broke down altogether, and was never repaired, in remembrance of the brothers. Henry Clay Work wrote a song called Grandfather's Clock. It became a most popular song. And that is the origin of the term “grandfather clock” A comment heard after this talk - “It opened a new window for me”. And that is what the

Rothley History Society aims to do – open new windows on a variety of subjects and topics, and enriching your interest in different aspects of history.

On Wednesday May 20th we invite you to attend our 10th Birthday evening for which we have planned an exhibition of the Society's events over the past ten years. This will be at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley, and will be open from 7.30 p.m. Do come along and join us in celebrating our birthday.

From Noreen Wilson, Rothley History Society

THURCASTON AND Cropston Local History Society had a “full house” in attendance on Tuesday February 17, 2009 to hear Mike Coleman talk about “The Secret Listeners at Beaumanor Hall Station Y” Secret listening to enemy messages was begun in World War 1, but after the war, by 1921, this activity had been scaled down considerably to a very small operation at a base on the south coast of England. It was not until 1938, with the threat of war looming once more, that the need for redevelopment and expansion of this Secret Intelligence Service (S.I.S.) was recognised and addressed.

After first moving from the south coast to Chicksands, Bedfordshire, the service ultimately transferred to Beaumanor Hall, Leicestershire, where it was known as the Y service (or wireless intercept). There were other intercept stations throughout the UK, but Beaumanor was the main base from where the coded

Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 16

messages received were then passed on for deciphering by the code breakers at Bletchley Park, or Station X as it was known.

The main house at Bletchley was originally a farmhouse, but had had numerous extensions and alterations. In 1938, when the buildings and site were surveyed as a potential S.I.S. facility, it was owned by a Captain Ridley who was a property developer. It is doubtful whether he was actually paid for the acquisition of his property, but he did get the commission to construct the many other buildings that were erected on the site to accommodate all the participants and machinery needed for this vital work. The site was enormous and, because the new buildings were white in colour, it led local people to believe Bletchley Park had become an asylum! This belief was compounded by some of the seemingly rather eccentric people who worked there! To avoid identification, particularly from aerial photography, buildings were disguised, e.g. the teleprinter hut resembled a cricket pavilion and others looked like stables, greenhouses and so on, to give the overall appearance of a village or country estate. Also, it was not unusual for people employed there to be completely unaware that another member of their own family may have been similarly employed within the site. Such was the strict secrecy of the work and security procedures to gain access to their respective workplaces, it was possible for the workforce to remain in total ignorance of the identity of other employees. However, although vital to the war effort, the work could be tedious and repetitive and involved working long hours, so every effort was made to provide recreational facilities such as the tennis courts, commissioned by Winston Churchill, for the workers.

Beaumanor Hall and Bletchley Park were ideally situated in relationship to the road and rail networks of the time and the messages for de-coding would be carried from Beaumanor to Bletchley by motor bike couriers travelling via the A5 road. Carrier pigeons were sometimes used as a mode of transport.

A necessary skill for members of the S.I.S. was the knowledge of Morse code. Workers were recruited from telegraph operators, radio amateurs, merchant navy radio operators, the police and women from the A.T.S. Nobody who worked to intercept wireless messages was able to interpret their meanings. This was only achieved after the coded messages were passed on and finally deciphered by the code-breakers at Bletchley Park.

This work continued long after the end of World War 2 and it was not until 1972 that Beaumanor Hall closed as an intercept station and it is now owned by Leicestershire Education Authority.

From Jennifer Kennington For our March meeting we were privileged to welcome back John Brooks from Rothley, who revealed that this was to be his final speaking engagement.

We benefited from his forty years of experience to hear an informal but very knowledgeable talk entitled “Before Delia and Nigella” about the history of early cookery writers.

Their books give an insight into not only the recipes but also the history, economics, politics and social order of the times in which they were written.

In the early days of printing, books were

expensive items and rarely dealt with everyday subjects like cookery. Their numbers began to increase during the 17th century, among the most notable being “The Closet of Sir Kenelm Digby Bart. Opened” (1669), when a servant cashed in on the death of the then famous diplomat and adventurer by publishing details from his household, including many recipes.

This was the book that popularized bacon and eggs as a breakfast dish. In the days before clocks were common, timings were determined by reciting prescribed numbers of Ave Marias or other religious texts that were then well known to everyone.

With the rise of the middle classes in the 18th century, there was a great demand for books advising the mistress of the house how to run her household. One of the most popular was “The Art of Cookery made Plain and Easy” by Hannah Glasse (1747). Hannah disapproved of the fashion for French cooks but had some unconventional ideas of her own, such as creating a salad in two hours by growing cress in a basin of horse manure in front of the fire; and making a syllabub by milking a cow directly into a bowl containing the other ingredients. The sales earned her enough money to set up a dress shop by appointment to the Princess of Wales and her book remained in print for 100 years.

The other bestseller of the 18th Century was “The Experienced English Housekeeper” (1769) by Elizabeth Raffald. Elizabeth was the housekeeper at Arley Hall, Cheshire, where she married the head gardener and produced 16 daughters in 18 years of marriage! She personally signed all the first editions of her book to prove their authenticity in the days before copyright law. The book’s success enabled her to set up businesses in Manchester such as a domestic service agency, a pie shop and local newspapers.

Finally, and most famously, was Isabella Beeton’s “Book of Household Management” (1861). Isabella grew up at Ascot, where her father was clerk of the racecourse. She later married publisher Samuel Beeton and wrote articles for his “Englishwoman’s Domestic Magazine”. The book was issued as a fouryear partwork before being published as a single volume of more than 1000 pages. Many of the recipes were contributed by readers or taken from earlier authors such as Eliza Acton.

It was the first cookery book to contain colour illustrations, together with accurate quantities, costs and cooking times using the new gas cookers. The initial price of 7/6d was high but cheaper condensed versions were later issued, leading to sales of 2 million copies during the first 25 years alone. Unfortunately, Mrs Beeton did not live to enjoy its success, dying at the age of 28 only three years after publication.

Her husband’s business collapsed when his bank failed and called in its loan, and the rights to the book were acquired by the firm of Ward Lock, which has published it ever since. The many revisions through the years provide a rich source of information about our changing lives and tastes.

Our next meeting will be on 19th May, when Felicity Austin will be telling us about historic toys and games. Time 7.30pm. Venue Harrison Room, All Saints` Church, Thurcaston.

From Peter Smith – Society Secretary

Park & Ride shortfall BIRSTALL’S PARK and Ride scheme was awarded £2.75 million of Government money in March.

But transport bosses at County Hall are disappointed that they didn’t get the £4.5 million they asked for for the 1000 space park and ride opposite Hallam Fields.

“We put in a bid for £4.5 million and they have given us £2.75 million so we have asked them to reconsider and we hope to have a reply in a couple of weeks” said Assistant Director of Transportation at Leicestershire County Council Mr Ian Drummond.

“In the meantime we are looking at alternative ways to fund the project” he added.

A Government spokesman for Communities and Local Government told the Rothley Post: “All bids for Community Infrastructure funding were considered against criteria of ensuring that the transport schemes help to support delivery of new housing and ensure value for money. In some cases local authorities were successful in securing funding but the appropriate level was less than what was bid for. The offer of funding for the Birstall Park and Ride scheme still stands, but it will not be increased.”

Developers Jelsons are required to provide

AC

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( 2675658 Proprietor RMS Gibbon

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2674213 Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 17

a 535 space car park on completion of the 401st house but this is not expected for several years and the County Council have been trying to negotiate a deal with them to bring the project forward.

Mr Drummond said: “We had hoped to set up a deal with Jelsons, we clearly want to work with them and to get on with the job.

We want a high quality scheme in Birstall that will reduce congestion and cut pollution.”

The credit crunch and slow sales of houses at Hallam Fields are thought to have stalled the negotiations with Jelsons.

Eric Goodyer, Labour’s Prospective Parliamentary candidate for Charnwood said: “I hope they are not going to give the money back, especially in today's economic climate.

The County Council should use the funding to get the scheme off the ground - even if it offers less car parking than they want it will get cars our of Birstall village, reduce noise and air pollution, and start earning revenues from the fares.”

The £2.75 million from the Government is part of a £170 million fiscal stimulus package allocated to 29 transport projects across the country. The total cost of the Birstall park and ride is estimated to be £5 million.

Dog ASBO Free breaks A DOG owner has been issued with an Antisocial Behaviour Order after her barking pets caused noise nuisance and distress to neighbours.

Patricia Eldridge was given the order by Loughborough Magistrates Court following the problem of dogs barking at her home in Bradgate Road, Anstey. Complaints were initially made concerning dog barking noise in 2007 and following an investigation by Charnwood Borough Council’s Environmental Health and Community Safety Teams, Eldridge was served with an Abatement Notice in March last year.

However, further complaints of noise nuisance caused by the dogs barking were received and despite the Council issuing an Acceptable Behaviour Contract to Eldridge in May 2008, the problems persisted. Up to seven dogs at a time were kept at the property and Eldridge was prosecuted for breaching the Abatement Notice in February.

Officers from the Council were successful in applying for a post-conviction Antisocial Behaviour Order on Tuesday April 14. The Antisocial Behaviour Order is valid for two years and a breach could lead to a custodial sentence or unlimited fine.

To find out more about the work of the Council’s Environmental Health Team in dealing with noise nuisance, log on to www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages/noisenuisance

for kids THE ROYAL British Legion is offering free week-long adventure breaks to children of armed forces personnel and veterans.

The Poppy Adventure Breaks will take place in three areas around the UK – Berkshire, Nottinghamshire and Suffolk during the summer holidays. They will provide an opportunity for young people between the ages of 12 and 17 to have fun, meet new people, and improve their self-esteem.

Legion funding will cover seven nights fullboard accommodation, as well as all daily adventure activities, including mountain-biking, kayaking, swimming and creative workshops. Ian Philips, Operations Manager for Poppy Adventure Breaks, said: “This scheme offers a break for children, and also for the parents, during the holidays.”

To access this scheme members of the RBL should contact Mr J Leake (0116 230 3858) the Welfare Officer of the Rothley Branch. If you are a past or present serving member of the armed forces and would like to join the RBL and then access the scheme, please call Mr Norman Latham, Rothley Branch Membership Secretary on 0116 230 2824

ROTHLEY’S PREMIER TREE SERVICE Just like the rest of your property, have you considered your trees require a little maintenance from time to time?

ARE YOUR TREES MAYBE? ...UNSAFE, TOO TALL OR UNTIDY ...BLOCKING LIGHT FROM YOUR HOME, OR YOUR NEIGHBOUR’S HOME ...LIKELY TO AFFECT YOUR PROPERTY STRUCTURE YOUR LOCAL TREE SURGEON

With 20 years experience in all aspects of tree work we would be pleased to offer you FREE expert advice & a FREE quotation without obligation

PHONE NOW ON 0116 2505842

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 Rothley library or Rothley Post Office on Woodgate.

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.

AIRPORT CARS Birstall. Airports, Seaports, Long Distance, Courier. Tel: 0777 1984806 ARCHITECTURAL DRAUGHTING. Plans, extensions & alterations drawn and submitted to council. All types of draughting undertaken. Over 15 years experience.

Tel: Mark 0116 2677721

Pilbeam Academy AFTER A very successful end of the year show in 2008, the Pilbeam Academy of Dance has three very full Examination & Medal sessions taking place in March, July and December.

The principal Mrs Antonia Pilbeam (FDDA & Examiner) is very pleased with the continued level of enthusiasm among the students.

Early in March at the AGM of the DDA Society, two of her students, Miss Chloe Wilson of Quorn and Miss Liberty Wisehall of Mountsorrel, competed for and obtained scholarships for 2009, which will enable them to receive extra private lessons to further their progress in their dance related ambitions.

Nearly 100 entrants competed in the various disciplines of dance, Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Modern and National Syllabus at the first of the Exam & Medal sessions on Sunday March 29. They were examined by Miss Monica Bannister (FDDA & Senior Examiner) of Warwickshire, who is the Senior Examiner of the Society and she was accompanied by Miss Freda Sutton, Secretary of the DDA Society.

The day was long and testing, but proved to be very rewarding, with 100% success, which included four top awards of Special Commend in the Exam Section and nine Recommendations in the Medals.

The next term starts on Monday April 20 with a few vacancies available.

Council roadworks THE COUNTY Council’s schedule of roadworks can be viewed online at www.leics.gov.uk/roadworks.

Information can also be obtained by phoning 305 0001.

Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 18

Noticeboard all details printed free Charnwood Conservative Association

Spring Fair at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Saturday May 16 10am till noon Raffle, tombola, plants, books, produce stall, games, bric-a-brac etc Admission 50p •••

Loughborough Farmers Market Devonshire Square, Loughborough Between 9am and 2pm Every month Next markets May 13, June 10 Wide variety of local produce: meats, sausage, bacon & cured meats, rare breed meats, meat, savoury & fruit pies, fruit & vegetables inc organic, plants & flowers, herbs, therapeutic herbal products, honey & beeswax products, chutneys & pickles, jams & preserves, homemade cooking sauces, wines, cider & fruit juices, eggs & cheeses, bread & cakes To book a stall or find out more call Markets and Fairs team 01509 634624, email: markets.fairs@charnwood.gov.uk or log on to www.charnwood.gov.uk

•••

Singing for Fun A light hearted singing group for singers, and would-be singers, of all ages and abilities We will sing a range of ‘classic’ hits from jazz, gospel, world, classical, popular and stage and screen, sometimes in unison, sometimes in harmony.

The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Starting September 4 Friday mornings 10am-12noon (also in Syston on Friday afternoons) further details: 01509 412152/Wolrich@AOL.com ••• The Leicestershire Pastel Society

10th Annual Exhibition of Paintings May 24-31 St Philip’s Church Hall, Evington Road, Leicester LE2 1HN Opening times 2-5pm (May 31, 2-4pm) All works for sale visit our website www.leicestershirepastelsociety.com email secretary: sixfortwo@btinternet.com 01664 454 237 •••

An evening’s entertainment not to be missed So don’t delay, book your tickets today •••

Thurcaston & Cropston Film Presentations ‘Easy Virtue’ will be shown on Friday May 22 and lasts 97 mins.

Adapted from a Noel Coward play, this stately home comedy stars Colin Firth as the war-scarred father.

Jessica Beal makes her musical debut as a glamorous American widow, Larita, who marries a young Englishman, John in the south of France. On the spur of the moment they go to England to meet his parents; his mother, Mrs Whittaker, takes a strong dislike to their new daughter-in-law, while his father, Jim, finds something of a kindred spirit in Larita. A battle of wits ensues in a series of very funny scenes. ‘Easy Virtue’ is a brilliant British comedy.

‘The Changeling’ will be shown on Friday June 19 and lasts 141 mins.

This beautiful constructed thriller starring Angelina Jolie and directed by Clint Eastwood is a true story set in the 1920s. A single mother mysteriously loses her nine year old son but the authorities return a changeling to her. We watch her desperate search for her real son, in a legal system which even questions her sanity.

Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall. Starting at 7.30pm, tickets cost £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.

There will be no films in June or July.

•••

Birstall Library helps the internet-shy Friday May 15 is Silver Surfers’ Day and there will be free sessions in libraries across Leicestershire where older people (50+) can find out what the internet can do for them.

This could include keeping in touch with friends and family across the globe to booking a holiday, doing the shopping, sharing photographs, catching up with missed TV programmes and much, much more. The internet has something for everyone. The library, with its informal, relaxed atmosphere and friendly, supportive staff to help is an ideal place to take that first step to getting online.

Find out more at Birstall Library on Friday May 15 from 10am to 12noon.

To book your free place contact Birstall library on 0116 3058756 ••• Birstall Methodist Thursday Group

Concert by Heart of England Barbershop Chorus

A Comedy Night Out Highcliffe Amateur Theatrical Society are performing three One Act Plays at Highcliffe Primary School, Greengate Lane, Birstall Thursday, Friday and Saturday, May 14, 15, & 16 at 7.30pm Ernie’s Incredible Illucinations by Alan Ayckbourne Last Tango in Little Grimley by David Instram, and They Also Serve by Sandy Taylor Tickets £5 Adult; £4 Concessions. Discount for group bookings Booking Office 0116 2128757, 07757854719 or email hatsbirstall@hotmail.co.uk Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 19

Thursday June 4 at 8pm In the Methodist Church Followed by coffee and cakes All proceeds to LOROS. Tickets £5 Contact 2675617 or 267312 or pay at the door •••

Birstall Local Food Festival Saturday May 30, 10am to 1pm Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road Entrance free Now is your chance to come and buy locally produced fresh tasty (much is organic) food direct from the farmer/producer There will be a wide range of food from meat, poultry, fish (farmed trout), eggs, cheeses, pies, cakes, specialist breads (inc wheat free), sweets and more.

Many samples to try before you buy, plus beef burgers, sausage and bacon baps Light refreshments available Adequate parking on the School Lane Playing Fields car park and only a short walk from the new Village Centre car park Contact: Heather 0116 2126549 •••

Carlo Curley’s ‘Organ Pops’ Yes, the World Famous Carlo Curley gives one of his spectacular Organ Recitals at Syston Methodist Church on the recently installed Makin Westmorland Custom Digital Organ on

Continued on back page

Continued from page 19 Thursday May 28 at 7.30pm Book now to ensure you get a seat!

Enter by ticket only - £10 Tickets from Trevor Solway on 0116 2606457 or trevor@jsolway.fsnet.co.uk •••

Wildlife on Your Doorstep May 25, 12noon-4pm Watermead Country Park, Wanlip Road entrance, Syston Wildlife themed activity event for all ranges with art, theatre and hands on countryside craft demonstrations. The day will include a parade of Darwin inspired sculptural creations by four local schools and the return of Mr Beetle with his own unique interpretation of Darwin’s theories. The event is free but there is a car park charge of £1.50 (exact change needed). Tel: 0116 305 7221 for further details

•••

Plant Collections Tuesday June 2 at 7.30pm Talk by Dr R J Gornall, Director of the University of Leicester Botanic Garden at Holly Hayes Environment and Heritage Resources Centre, Birstall No charge but booking is essential as places are limited. Tel: 0116 2670003 or email wildlife@leics.gov.uk

••• 2009 Diary of Village Events and Festivals The diary is produced by the Rural Community Council (Leicestershire & Rutland) and contains events from April to December that will take place in local villages

and towns.

Includes: Flower Festivals, Open Gardens, Concerts and live music, Scarecrow Festivals, Church/Village Fetes and Carnivals, Heritage and collectors events and street markets Copies are available in local libraries & museums If you would like a free copy, please send a SAE (9”x 4”) to Diana Cook, Rural Community Council (Leics & Rutland), 133 Loughborough Rd, Leicester LE4 5LQ

••• Former Staff & Students of Longslade Community College In 2010 Longslade will be celebrating its 50th anniversary We are organising a

Barbecue & Disco for former members of staff and former students of Longslade Community College on Saturday June 13, from 7-11pm at Longslade Community College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall Tickets: £10 to include food from the barbecue Licensed Bar 50th

This will be our first event in preparation for our anniversary celebrations which take place in 2010.

Please join us to meet up with old friends and colleagues – we look forward to seeing you!

Tickets MUST be bought in advance from the college

by June 5.

For ticket sales and for further info please contact Admin Office, Longslade Community College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH tel: 0116 2677107 Cheques should be made payable to ‘Longslade School Fund’

•••

Soar Valley Bowls Club

Loughborough Road, Rothley (opposite Hilltop Garage) Learn How to Play Bowls No obligation to join, just come to one of our taster sessions. Obviously, we do hope that you will enjoy the game enough to become a member and join in our Men’s Ladies’ and also Mixed games. We play league bowls as well as friendly matches, or just come and enjoy the social scene – there is something for everyone.

First year membership free to new bowlers to the sport Bowls will be supplied, just bring flat soled shoes Contact Audrey Porter 0116 2875748 ••• Thurcaston & Cropston

Open Gardens Weekend Sat & Sun, June 27 & 28 1-5pm, tickets £4 Accompanied children free 20 gardens open Richard Hill School summer Fair On Sat June 27 Tickets available on the day or in advance from richardhillpta@aol.com ••• Friends of Bishop Ellis

Annual Summer Fair Barkby Thorpe Lane, Thurmaston Saturday June 20, 4-6.30pm Come along and enjoy the fun of the fair.

Lots to see, do and eat Bouncy castle, bungee run, games including the stocks, toy stall, books and DVDs, cake stall, tombola, bar-b-cue, ice creams and afternoon teas plus so much more Help the school celebrate its 40th Anniversary Year We look forward to welcoming you all

••• The next in the series of Charity Whist Drives organised by Derek Farr will be held in the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley on Thursdays May 7, (June 11), July 2 at 7.30pm ••• Rothley Parish Council

Annual Parish Meeting Friday May 15, 8pm Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane The public are invited to attend and raise any issues of local concern

THE ROTHLEY POST YOUR 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: Rothley Library, Rothley Post Office or to our office in the Youth Centre, Longslade College, Birstall editor@birstallpost.co.uk

Rothley Post MAY/JUN 2009 (76), page 20