Rothley Post (96) Sept 2012

THE ROTHLEY POST YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

SEP/OCT 2012

No. 96 Get involved

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THE ROTHLEY POST

PHOTOS: CAROLE WHITE

will be published on Nov 10 The copy deadline is Oct 26

Pics: (above) Elijah Trickett, Bobby Swinhoe & Ben Riley; (right) Keeley & Ethan Hill hold on tight to one of the rides (below); Millie & William Thomson waiting for Thomas to arrive

Plans for new school TWO ALTERNATIVE sites for a new primary school in Rothley have been put forward by different developers.

Charles Church, who have already secured planning permission for 170 dwellings at the Brookfield Farm site on Hallfields Lane, have submitted a planning application for the site that would increase the number of dwellings to 180 and provide a primary school with a large capacity and improved facilities.

The new school would have room for 420 pupils and replace the school on Mountsorrel Lane, which would be demolished. Charles Church plan to build 16 new homes on the old school site If planning permission is granted, Continued on page 2 Advertise in

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Children meet Thomas

THOMAS THE Tank engine steamed into Rothley station at a GCR event this summer.

Children got to meet Sir Topham Hat, the Fat controller and rode with Thomas and his friends between Loughborough and Leicester.

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SEP 2012

Continued from page 1 Charles Church says the development could start in April 2013.

Developers William Davis have announced plans for 250 dwellings and a new primary school on land east of Mountsorrel Lane. The school would be located 400m north of its present site.

Their proposal would also make available the property at 149 Mountsorrel Lane for a doctor’s surgery with additional parking, and provide a link road from Mountsorrel Lane to the old A6.

The chair of governors at Rothley school, Rob Gladstone, and Rothley Parish Council have expressed concerns about a new school at Brookfield farm – they say it is in the wrong place at the edge of the village and would present

Pic: The Charles Church design for the new primary school

highway safety issues.

Percy Hartshorn, Chairman of Rothley Parish Council, said: “The William Davis proposal [off Mountsorrel Lane] is also not an ideal location for a school but given the fact that there is not sufficient room to expand the existing school, it is the best alternative.”

Pic: The William Davis proposal

School safety zone for Thurcaston A NEW 20mph zone is planned for streets in the vicinity of Thurcaston school.

The County Council scheme aims to improve safety by reducing vehicle speeds, and to promote the feeling of a safer environment so that parents are more willing to allow their children to either walk or cycle to school.

The zone will include a section of Anstey Lane, Mill Road and Leicester Road.

New signage will incorporate amber flashing lights pro-

grammed to flash at school start and end times. The 20mph limit will be enforced when the lights are flashing.

A County Council spokesman said: “A number of similar signs have been erected at sites throughout Leicestershire which have produced consistently lower vehicle speeds and improved driver behaviour outside schools.”

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THE ROTHLEY POST

New gypsy site for local road?

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SEP 2012

Pic: the red zone indicates the proposed site

A DECISION on the traveller site on Greengate Lane is expected in September.

Leicester City Council received 1486 responses to its consultation on proposals to locate authorised sites on Greengate Lane, Beaumont Way and Red Hill Way. The consultation period ended on July 13.

City Mayor Peter Soulsby and his executive team will make a decision on the proposals after they have analysed the responses and the recommendations of the City Council Scrutiny Commission.

The Commission’s report has recommended that the Beaumont Way site be dropped and replaced with a site on Hoods Close, next to Birstall Golf Club’s course, on Thurcaston Road.

If the sites are recommended, the City Council must submit a formal planning application which will be a further opportunity for the public to object. Leicester City Council’s planning department will then make a decision on whether planning permission should be granted. Elected members of Leicester City Council will then vote on the application.

Japanese visit county 19 VISITORS from Japan were hosted in county homes and enjoyed eight days of sightseeing.

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Sports pitch & tennis courts at college THREE NEW tennis courts and a full size artificial turf football pitch are planned at Longslade College, Birstall.

The facilities will be located next to the Palmer Tomkinson Centre on land partly occupied by an all weather sports pitch and on arable land beyond the existing college boundary to the north.

The proposals include three standard sized tennis courts, one to be designated as a tournament court and a full sized artificial turf football pitch, which may be used as three individual 5-aside pitches across its width.

The courts and pitches will have a perimeter fence and floodlights. The floodlights will be fitted with a mechanism that will automatically switch them off outside the hours of permitted use.

The changing room facilities are provided within the Palmer Tomkinson Centre, which opened last year.

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The visitors and their hosts are all members of the Friendship Force Club – its aim is to spread global friendship when visiting each other and sample local customs and traditions with their hosts as part of their family.

The Japanese guests enjoyed a walking tour of Leicester City, met the Lord Mayor at a civic reception, visited Rutland Water and tasted pork pies in Melton Mowbray.

The Leicestershire Friendship Force Club is planning trips to New Zealand, Indonesia and Bournemouth and will be welcoming guests from Costa Rica, California and County Durham.

There are 360 Friendship Force Clubs in 55 countries around the world. To become a member or to obtain further information regarding Friendship Force visit “leicestershirefriendshipforce.org.uk” or contact its Membership Secretary, Margaret Myatt, tel: 01530 244388.

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THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2012

Parish Council secretary retires

A POPULAR and respected local figure has retired from her position at Rothley Parish Council after 33 years.

Mrs Ann Harmer was a secretary at the Parish Council and has worked with four Parish Clerks over the years: Mr Rex Poole, Mr Roy Knowles, Mrs Mary Neale and Mr Robin Dent.

Ann said: “One of the first jobs I was involved in was setting up the Rothley Centre. It had previously been called the Pippin Inn. When Mr Poole and I first came into the building it was like the

Marie Celeste with half empty glasses still on the tables and doors smashed where everything had just been left. One of the main tasks was to clean the building and make sure that it could function as a village community facility. The clear up operation and the establishment of the ‘New’ Rothley Centre soon became a community activity which a lot of parishioners played their part in. When the Rothley Centre was opened in 1980 the Parish Office moved from the Village Hall to the new Centre.

“Over the intervening years the Rothley Centre has developed into an important hub of community functions in the village. It has been my pleasure to arrange bookings for the Art Class, Needlework Class, WEA, Bridge Groups Coffee Mornings and many other local groups.

The Parish has always promoted the Village Hall as a smaller self contained function room and I have enjoyed being part of the setting up of Playgroups, Mothers & Toddlers, After School Clubs, Dancing Classes and Sunday School.

“Some years ago on a Friday morning a young lady rang me in tears asking if the Centre was available that Saturday as the venue where her wedding reception

was to be had lost its licence. We arranged that she should come to the office with her mother and we would somehow sort it out for her. By lunchtime that day we had fixed the new caterer, organised the bar and arranged for flower decorations for the tables and the room. She said afterwards that her wedding reception was everything she had hoped for.

“Because in any one day I could be tracing a 50 year old folder in the archives one minute and next be advising a bereaved family about the family grave in the cemetery my work has always been extremely varied. However for some time now my job has also included arranging the Late Night Shopping Event with the Rothley shopkeepers. This has developed over the years into one of the main events in the village calendar. Over the years we have been lucky enough to have many different personalities switch the lights on including Robbie Savage, Darth Vader aka Geoff Woodgett, Cliff Richard and not forgetting Sven Goran Ericksson. Variety has really been the spice of my working life.”

Rothley Parish Council Chairman Percy Hartshorn said: “Ann has been a very loyal person and organised the Christmas lights switch on event ever since we have been doing this in her own time. Ann is a people person and very interested in village events. Her other interests have been the VE-VJ committee, organising village picnics for several years and the History Society of which Ann was a founder member. We wish her well in her retirement.”

Ann and her husband John have lived in Rothley ever since they were married and have two sons, Paul and Simon.

Quality firm keeps growing Modern history talks

Pic: Anne Harmer receives a bouquet of flowers from Parish Council Chairman Percy Hartshorn and Vice Chairman Brian Popple

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Byron said: “Our success is due to the fact that we will not compromise on quality.”

Their latest new production is an innovative retractable screen that unobtrusively fits your window or door frame. It allows full ventilation and fresh air circulation, keeps out insects and remains out of sight until needed.

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A RETIRED university lecturer will be giving two talks in Rothley on the history of Germany and Russia.

Dr Michael Lynch, who taught Modern History at Leicester University, will be talking about Germany from Hitler to the present day, and on Russia from the time of Stalin.

The talks will be given in the Rothley Centre where Dr Lynch has previously given lectures on China and the Middle East, both of which were well supported.

Held on Tuesday October 2 and Tuesday October 23, both talks are at 7pm for a 7.30pm start and tea and coffee will be made available. There will be a question and answer session. The talks are organised by the Rothley Branch of the Charnwood Conservative Association, are nonpolitical and all are welcome.

Tickets at £4 are available via Norman Pratt on 0116 237 5254 or by post to 17 Windmill End, Rothley Leicester LE7 7RP. Please include a stamped/addressed envelope.

THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2012

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Hundreds visit parish gardens THE WEEKEND June 30/July 1 saw the villages of Thurcaston and Cropston welcoming hundreds of visitors from across the county and further afield to their annual Open Gardens.

A spokesman for the organisers, Richard Hill School PTA, said: “We were delighted to see so many people obviously enjoying an unusually dry afternoon, considering the recent weather, wandering around the various beautiful gardens of the parish. We would like to say a huge ‘Thank You’ to everyone who so generously opened their gardens for this year’s event. The gardeners themselves were also thrilled to see so many people and really appreciated visitors’ comments on all their hard work.”

Richard Hill School garden, recently awarded Charnwood Borough Council’s Don’t Muck Around Award , was also open to the public

Pic: Radio Leicester broadcast from the event

showing off the children’s green-fingered abilities. Their ‘Crazy containers’ competition entries were also on display in the new greenhouse, showing the children’s imagination and creativity.

The whole event also featured on Radio Leicester’s ‘Clueless’ programme on the Sunday morning when one of the clue’s was found in amongst the compost heaps of one garden!

The event has raised just over £1600 which will go towards a new Outdoor Classroom at the school. This will facilitate the children’s learning in an out-

door environment.

The spokesman added: “Photos from this year’s event can be seen at www.tcog.org.uk; maybe you’ll feel inspired to open your garden next year!

“Many thanks to everybody who contributed to the success of the weekend, whether by visiting the gardens, opening their garden, making refreshments, allowing use of their car park, putting up posters, or tolerating the numerous parked cars! It was a great community weekend!”

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WOODGATE CLINIC Pic: Matt Cort

OSTEOPATHY & PHYSIOTHERAPY

Tournament success for Rothley’s Matt

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He started the season with an appearance at the European Tour BMW PGA Championships at Wentworth where he finished ahead of many notable players including Rory McIlroy. He then went on to win the PTS Invitational (A Midlands PGA order of merit event) winning by 6 shots, beating past Ryder Cup players Peter Baker and Paul Broadhurst.

His biggest achievement was retaining the British PGA Assistants’ Championship – winning with a score of -5. Matt is the first player to defend and win the title in 60 years and only the third person ever to defend – the other two being Ryder Cup players Harry Weetman and Dai Rees. This win now qualifies Matt to

play in the PGA play offs and the Australian Futures Championship that he won last year.

“It’s been a fabulous run of tournaments for me and makes next years Assistant Professionals’ tournament extra special as no one has ever won three years on the spin” said Matt. “It’s all fitted in well with working at Rothley Park Golf Club in the Pro Shop and looking after our members. I’ve also passed my Year 2 P.G.A. exams which was pleasing. With the recent weather causing the course to be closed on and off over most of the summer it’s good to see the course now looking back at its best.”

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THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2012

family for a very interesting and informative afternoon.

From Maureen Bulmer, Rothley WI

AT OUR June meeting, Mrs Margaret Sharman came and gave a talk about ‘Street Pastors’ and the work they do.

Pic: WI members sampling yoghurt

WI visit dairy farm AUGUST IS usually the month when Rothley WI take a break from a meeting.

However Thursday August 2 saw members enjoying a pub lunch followed by a pleasant drive through the country lanes to the picturesque village of Thrussington where we were met by smiling farmer owner, Mr Peter Holmes.

The Holmes family have owned the farm for the last 73 years and have reared Friesian and Jersey/Friesian cross herds. Mr Holmes explained that the Jersey bull provides the Friesian cow with calves whose milk when ready has a much higher fat content, thus passing on the benefit to the high level creamy yoghurt produced after processing.

The members were shown the large vats where the milk is separated, then passed onto a vat which is heated to 80° f the milk is then cooled by running cold water through a series of coils, which cools the milk down to 35°f when it is time to add the culture.

Afterward the yoghurt is placed in a hot

room in buckets and kept at 35°f for 3-4 hours, the ph of every batch is checked regularly.

When the process is complete the yoghurt is transferred to a cold store until such time the flavouring can be added and the pots are filled, sealed and ready for distribution to the stores.

The family business have built up a reputation and broad distribution based purely on the high quality of the probiotic yoghurt made from fresh milk from their own dairy herd at Manor Farm . The family are understandably very proud of the awards they have won for their yoghurts. Rothley WI members were then shown around the farm and were just in time to catch the end of the afternoon milking.

Having seen the herd, seen the equipment used in the processing and tasted flavoured and plain yoghurts members of Rothley WI left with a huge vote of thanks to Mr Holmes and his

We were told that Street Pastors is a national project which was pioneered in London in 2003, and arrived in Leicester in April 2005. There are now more than 30 people offering a Christian servant ministry to anyone who is out in the city centre on Friday and Saturday nights.

Starting at 10pm, they patrol the streets in pairs. The majority of people they help at this time are the homeless, who may need someone to talk to or something to eat and drink.

After midnight their clients are different. Very often they are night clubbers who may only need help with directions.

Sometimes however, more challenging situations arise, such as calming down a volatile situation or calling the emergency services.

This was a very interesting talk which everyone enjoyed. The members all had admiration for the bravery of the pastors going out on the Leicester streets late into the night.

From Thurcaston & Crospton WI

Growing population THE POPULATION of Charnwood rose by 12,600 in the period 2001 to 2011.

The figures were released by the Office for National Statistics, following an analysis of the 2011 census.

The 8.1% increase compares to a 6.7% increase for Leicestershire as a whole (650,500).

Leicester’s population grew by 17%, the highest growth in the East Midlands.

The city’s population is now 329,900.

Leicester is the most densely populated part of the East Midlands at 4,500 people per square km, which equates to about 45 people on a rugby pitch. The least populated local authority was West Lindsey in Lincolnshire with 77 people per square km.

The number of people in 2001 aged over 65 in Leicestershire was 95,400.

Ten years on that figure has grown to 115,500. This represents an increase of 21%.

The number of people in 2001 aged over 85 in Leicestershire was 10,900.

Ten years on that figure has grown to 15,200. This represents an increase of 39%.

The age group which has had the largest increase in numbers since 2001 are those aged 60-64. Their numbers have grown from 30,600 to 44,400. This represents an increase of 45%.

The age group which has had the largest drop in numbers since 2001 are those aged 30-34. Their numbers have fallen from 45,400 to 35,100. This represents a decrease of 27%.

The population of England and Wales is 56.1million, an increase of 7 per cent. The population of London grew by 12 per cent to 8million.

The population of England and Wales has risen by approximately 50% since 1911 – so for every two people in 1911 there were three in 2011.

Parish Council notes A FULL meeting of Rothley Parish Council was held on July 9.

PC Ed Stephenson’s report stated that there was very little crime across Rothley. It was reported that immediately before the meeting the Parish Council Office had been broken into and cash stolen.

The Parish Council has expressed concerns about the proposal by developers Charles Church to build a school on the Brookfield Farm site, because of its location and access difficulties. Developers William Davis, who plan to build up to 300 homes off Mountsorrel Lane, have indicated they may be prepared to build a school an land for a doctor’s surgery.

The Council agreed to seek advice on preparing its Neighbourhood Plan, the subject of a public consultation earlier this year.

It was reported that the Brookfield Farm balancing pond did not appear to be working – there have been several incidents of Hallfields Lane flooding and the level in the pond remains constant.

It was agreed to report the problem to the Environment Agency, Persimmon Homes, Severn Trent and Charnwood Borough Council.

It was agreed that the Village Hall be redecorated at a cost of £3500.

THE ANNUAL parish meeting of Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council was held on May 17.

Cllr Richard Younie was elected as Chairman for the ensuing year. Cllr Thomas Green was elected Vice Chairman.

It was agreed that four trees be planted in the hedgerow at Jubilee Park later in the year.

The Council agreed to relocate a planter to the grass verge on Anstey Lane, fronting Wallis Close retirement village.

PCSO Alex Bierne reported that a recent funeral service at the Parish church had resulted in complaints about parking. PCSO Bierne will raise the matter with the church to consider a way forward.

It was agreed to enquire about the process for installing vehicle activated speeding signs, to be located on Station Road, Cropston.

The County Council intend to introduce an advisory 20mph zone for Richard Hill primary school. The Parish Council suggested the location of one of the street signs is too near the school and proposed that it be moved further along Anstey Lane towards the church.

The next issue of

THE ROTHLEY POST will be published on Nov 10.

The copy deadline is Oct 26.

THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2012

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THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2012

Noticeboard all details printed free Become a

LOROS lottery volunteer Being a LOROS lottery volunteer is fun, exciting, and extremely rewarding Our current volunteers experience some great events and meet some fantastic people You will benefit from knowing that you are helping to make a difference to a local charity We would love to hear from you if you are aged 16 plus so please contact Jane Taylor for more information Tel: 0116 2318430 Email: janetaylor@loros.co.uk •••

Family Night Charity Disco

By RS Entertainment Saturday September 22 7-11.30pm Birstall Social Club Tickets £5 adults, £1 child Charities: Wishes 4 Kids/Gynae Oncology Unit LGH For tickets contact Paula on 07934551563 This is a ticket only event •••

Coffee Shop Rothley Methodist, Howe Lane Every Tuesday morning, 10-11.30am Come rain or shine Now open : Book exchange Everyone welcome Tea, coffee, biscuits, toasted tea cake Proceeds for the Methodist Church •••

Leicestershire Pastel Society 13th annual exhibition Brocks Hill Environment Centre, Washbrook Lane Oadby, Leicester LE2 5JJ (in the grounds of Parklands Leisure Cen-

tre) Sep 6-9 Weekdays 10am-5pm Saturday 10am-4pm Sunday 10am-3pm All works for sale Visit our website: www.leicestershirepastelsociety.com Enq: Secretary 0116 2375277 •••

Coffee Morning and Sale The Rothley Centre Saturday September 29 from 10am to 12noon in aid of Cancer Research UK Stalls to include bric a brac, books, cakes, gifts and jewellery (new and old), plants, toys, Phoenix Cards, tombola and raffle Entrance !3 includes unlimited coffee/tea and biscuits Everyone welcome •••

Ladies Circle Howe Lane, Rothley 2.30pm on Tuesday, Sep 11 Will start again on the date above and then from every other Tuesday Look on the notice board for our programme of speakers •••

Table Top Sale at the Rothley Centre LE7 7PR Saturday Nov 10 From 10am to 12.30pm £10 per table – to book and for further info ring 0116 2661342 ••• The next in the series of

Charity Whist Drives organised by Derek Farr will be held at 7.30pm in the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley on Thursdays Sep 6, Oct 4 and Nov 1 Admission £2 •••

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Charity Craft Fair Sat Oct 27 from 10am to 3.30pm at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR Admission £1 Over 25 craft stalls, including jewellery ceramics, textiles, toys, gifts and lots more individually made and designed items Cakes, refreshments & raffle Why not spread the cost of Christmas and start your shopping early?

All proceeds to the Leics MS Therapy Centre, reg charity no.701925 Contact Susan on 0116 2388035 for more information •••

Charity Bridge Drive organised by Loughborough Lions Club at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Wednesday October 31 at 1.30pm with afternoon tea provided at a cost of £6 per person To book a table please contact Jackie on 0116 2303317 or email brianjackie.popple@ntlworld.com •••

Coffee Morning

by Mountsorrel Book Group in support of Help for Heroes Sat Sep 22 from 10.30am to 12.30pm Mountsorrel Library (upstairs) Lift access available Cakes, raffle, tombola, books, DVDs, produce Admission £1 inc refreshments ••• Charnwood Orchestra

Autumn Concert Sep 29 at Holy Trinity Church, Barrow upon Soar, Leicestershire at 7.30pm Debussy: Petite Suite Haydn: Cello concerto No.1 in C, cello soloist Jenny Curtis Gounod: Symphony No.1 in D Tickets £10 (£8 concessions), £3 for accompanied children under 16 Available from the Box Office 07718 153117 or by emailing judithrodgers155@gmail.com, members of the orchestra or on the door There will be an interval bar selling wine, Castle Rock real ale and fruit juice •••

‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’

by Northumberland Theatre Company on Friday October 5 at Humphrey Perkins Community Centre, Cotes Road, Barrow LE12 8JU at 7.30pm An introduction to Shakespeare for children and adults alike, its target audience

is 10+ One happy customer commented “Brilliant! Usually I haven’t a clue what’s going on with Shakespeare but tonight it all made wonderful sense, and it was so funny”

‘Soapsuds’ A murder mystery

by Barrow Panto Group on Friday October 12 at Humphrey Perkins Community Centre, Cotes Road, Barrow LE12 8JU at 7.30pm Solve the murder of a beloved national treasure Set in the TV studios of a fictional popular soap drama called ‘Diamond Road’ Book a table of 8 and challenge family & friends to solve the crime ••• St James Monday Group Invites you to a

Coffee Morning at St James Church, Birstall on Saturday September 8 10am to 12noon Bring & buy stall, raffle Coffee & biscuits £1, cake 50p All proceeds to Cystic Fibrosis Trust •••

Children’s Art Competition Open to everyone under 19 yrs old Subject: ‘Old Rothley’ Your artwork can be any size up to A3 and must have your name, address and date of birth on the back Entries to be handed in to Rothley post Office Last date for entries: Friday September 28 Prizes awarded in four groups: under 8 year olds; under 12 year olds; under 15 year olds; under 19 year olds Entries will be displayed at the Rothley Centre on Friday & Saturday, October 5/6, as part of a Rothley History Society exhibition ‘The Changing Face of Rothley: 1780-2012’ The presentation of the art competition prizes and certificates will be on Sat morning October 6 at the Rothley Centre More details in the autumn Rothley Post, or phone Ursula Greaves 0116 2303500 •••

‘The Changing Face of Rothley’ The story of steady development from 1780 to 2012 An Exhibition and Book Launch Friday October 5, 6-9pm Saturday October 6, 10am-4pm The Rothley Centre Information: Ursula Greaves 0116 2303500 Rothley History Society •••

THE ROTHLEY POST

Tuesday Toddlers at Rothley Village Hall from Sep 5, 1.30-3pm For parents, carers and O-preschool children Fun and a chance to meet and chat £2 per family inc refreshments Phone Christine: 0116 237 5537 ••• Birstall Methodist Church, Wanlip Lane, Birstall

Table Top Sale Saturday November 24 10am to 2pm Tables @ £10 each Contact: Margaret 0116 2671181 (Table Top Sale is part of the annual Christmas Festival Nov 24/25) •••

Film Night The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel If you missed it when it first came out, or enjoyed it so much you would like to see it again, then come along to St James Church, Church Hill, Birstall on Friday Sep 28 at 7pm No charge, Refreshments available •••

Film Presentations From Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council

'The Artist' Friday September 14 (100 mins) This romantic comedy won five Oscars including Best Actor award for Jean du Jardin. It also gained twelve BAFTA nominations. Being tender, romantic and incredibly funny, in black and white silence, this film describes the rise and fall of a dashing actor against the backdrop of tumultuous change in Hollywood.

'The Help' Friday October 5 Based on the novel by Kathryn Stockett, this film explores the touching relationship between two black maids in 1960s Mississippi. In an era of social upheaval and racial tension, there are very funny performances and scenes of heartfelt emotion. As this film progresses, we can see ourselves or someone we know, within each of the characters.

'War House' Friday November 9 Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall. Starting at 7.30pm, tickets cost £4.50 and concessions are £4. The price includes refreshments and a lucky prize draw.

Advance tickets can be purchased via the parish office, 0116 2367626 or bought at the door.

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Artwork inspired by old Rothley CHILDREN ARE being invited to take part in an art competition.

Their artwork, on the theme of ‘Old Rothley’, will then be displayed in the Rothley Centre as part of a Rothley History Society exhibition called ‘The Changing Face of Rothley’.

“We are organising this art competition as a way of encouraging young people to take a closer look at their surroundings and to help them appreciate that they live in a village steeped in history” said Ursula Greaves, secretary of Rothley History Society.

She added: “By displaying all competition entries alongside the exhibition we hope that young people and their families will come and look around the exhibition, which will show how and why the village has grown from a small agricultural community to the expanding commuter village it is today.”

Retired Rothley teacher Kate Croden is liasing with Rothley school to involve pupils in the art competition.

“Planning for the exhibition started in May 2011” said Ursula “in a response to the enormous number of new houses that are either being built or are being proposed for our village. It is the brain-

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child of John Brooks, long time resident of the village and one of the founder members of the history society.

“We hope that it will be of particular interest to people who have moved in to the village recently.”

The exhibition will show how the village has developed since the enclo-

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sures of the 1780s up to the present day. It will be held in the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane on Friday October 5, 6-9pm and Saturday October 6, 10am–4pm • Art competition: Open to all under age 19, subject ‘Old Rothley’, artwork can be any size up to A3 and must have your name, address and date of birth on the back.

Entries to be handed in at Rothley Post office by Sep 28. There will be prizes for four age groups, presented on Sat Oct 6 at the Rothley Centre exhibition.

10 THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2012

WEA courses

Life on the farm Living & working at Brookfield AS YOU drive down Hallfields Lane in Rothley many people hardly notice the farm gate which leads to Brookfield Farm.

There has been a farm on this site for many years, long before many of the houses which now make up the village of Rothley.

Today Bill and Sarah Wright live at Brookfield Farm on Hallfields Lane. In this and future issues of the Rothley Post, Sarah will be writing about life on the farm: Although the summer months here at Brookfield are very busy, as on all farms, we have had to start thinking about our move from Rothley. We have to leave the farm by mid-April 2013, and although this seems a long way off, moving a farm business as well as our home is a daunting prospect.

On Saturday July 21 we held an auction style farm sale at Brookfield. This was to sell all the equipment that we are not taking with us on our move. As the family has been here for almost 60 years, in addition to the machinery, there were many things hidden in corners, behind buildings etc, having been kept just in case they may be useful at sometime. It was quite exciting, but time consuming assembling all the vari-

Pic: Esmah Wright chats to a visitor

ous lots for the auctioneer to number and catalogue.

We were very fortunate with the weather on sale day as the sun shone for the first time for several weeks, and it was a good excuse for farmers to come early to view the lots and then bid on them during the auction. It was a successful but tiring day as there were approximately 500 people who attended, and the auctioneer was kept very busy.

As is usual at Farm Sales many farmers came to catch up with their friends and it was a lovely social occasion. It was a day of mixed emotions for Esmah Wright, Bill’s Mum, as she was driven

Pic: the auctioneer taking bids

around the auction enabling her to catch up with old friends and remember happy times here at Brookfield Farm.

As soon as the sale was completed, and the purchases collected by their new owners, harvest began. The oil seed rape is the first crop to be harvested here at Brookfield Farm and the weather has been reasonably good for cutting and collecting this crop. Oil seed rape dries quite quickly in the fields before it is cut so we have been able to work in between the showers quite well. However, with the large amounts of rain during July, the combine harvester and tractors have left large ruts in the wet fields.

Within the next week or two the wheat will be ready to be harvested.

Due to the dreadful June and July weather the yield of the wheat crop will probably be around half of what it should be.

Although the crop is generally standing well in the field, the ears are only holding about half the number of healthy seeds. This is due to the weather conditions causing fungus to form within the ear. This is a problem which is common throughout the country, and with the failure of many crops in the USA wheat prices, and therefore food prices will unfortunately be driven up.

On a lighter note, I would like to share another amusing incident which happened here in Rothley. One summer’s day some years ago, Bill was driving a tractor and trailer full of very wet cow slurry through the village to be spread on a field at Mountsorrel. Unfortunately, as he was passing the fish and chip shop a car pulled out in front of him, causing him to make an emergency stop. Of course the tractor stopped, the trailer stopped but the liquid slurry didn’t. It came over the front of the

trailer, at speed, hit the road and splattered up the front of the fish and chip shop. I’m sure Mandy and Jim and their neighbours remember the incident well.

Town’s Portas cash LOUGHBOROUGH IS one of only 15 towns in the country to receive a £100,000 cash injection from retail guru Mary Portas.

The aim of the scheme is to reinvigorate the country’s high streets.

Roger Perrett, chairman of Loughborough Business Improvement District (BID), said: “We are absolutely delighted by the news and so proud of the team which worked hard on the submission.

“We are joined together as a ‘Town Team’ and this is very much a collaboration with other partnerships in the town and each one of these relationships is vital for its future prosperity.

Mr Perrett said the Portas cash would be used for a number of initiatives including market start-ups, generating interest in vacant units, ‘retail masterclasses’ where Loughborough University will offer training and support for new and existing retailers and mentoring on social networking.

The University will also be involved in research to gain a greater insight into further developing Loughborough’s catchment areas.

The Portas cash is being matched

by BID Loughborough, the University, Charnwood Borough Council, the Local Sustainable Transport Fund and Leicestershire County Council. It will bring the total amount of money being spent on improving Loughborough to £175,000.

Cllr David Slater, leader of Charnwood Borough Council, said: “This investment in our town benefits not just the town centre but the whole local economy. When the town centre prospers, the whole town prospers.

This news is a vindication of all the hard work that has been put into making Loughborough town centre a thriving shopping destination thanks to our thriving markets and the work of BID Loughborough. We have outlined in our Corporate Plan that we want to ensure that Charnwood continues to be a prosperous and innovative Borough which embraces enterprise.”

Loughborough will also receive a tailored package of support from Portas and Local Government Minister Grant Schapps, who described the cash as a “golden ticket”.

BIRSTALL & ROTHLEY WEA have announced their autumn 2012 programme.

Draw, Paint And Print This course will look at working in a variety of drawing and painting media and serves as an introduction to basic relief printing techniques. The course is suitable for returning learners wishing to try something new whilst expanding their knowledge and understanding of the language of art. Beginners are also welcome. Teaching is supported by examples of artists’ work, demonstrations and group discussion.

Tutor: Jo Sheppard. Fee £70, discounted: £63 (not available to the retired) or Free Venue: The Rothley Centre, 12 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR Date: Monday 1–3pm, 10 meetings from 17th September 2012 Politics, Literature & Social Life In 18th Century England Too often the eighteenth century in Britain is studied from the point of view of the historian, the student of literature, the historian of art and architecture, or the social historian. This course will look at the ‘long’ eighteenth century as a coherent whole. It will be argued that just as literature must be read within the context of the period, so all aspects of society fit in with each other.

Tutor: Aubrey Newman Fee £47.25, discounted: £42.55 (not available to the retired) or Free Venue: The Rothley Centre, 12 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR Date: Tuesday 10–11.30am, 9 meetings from 16th October 2012 Afternoon Tai Chi The soft flowing movements of Tai Chi promote health and mental focus.

One posture of the 24 sequential movements of the form is taught each week.

Please wear loose clothing and flat-soled shoes.

Tutor Laraine Tucker Fee £84, discounted: £75.60(not available to the retired) or Free Venue: Birstall Methodist Church Rooms, 40 Wanlip Lane, Birstall LE4 4JS Date: Tuesday 1.30–3.30pm, 12 meetings from 18th September 2012 Panoramas: Life, Landscapes & Art Take a new look at landscape painting-urban and rural-to explore some of the inspirations, insights and influences that lie behind the work of a range of artists from Camille Pissarro, Gustave Caillebotte and Georgia O’Keefe to the present day. No experience necessary – just a lively, open-minded interest in art!

Tutor Janis Baker Fee £63, discounted: £56.70 (not available to the retired) or Free Venue: The Rothley Centre, 12 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR Date: Wednesday 7.15–9.15pm, 9 meetings from 26th September 2012 Contact: Marion Vincent, Telephone: 0116 2375156 or send your enrolments to John Laurance WEA Treasurer, 33 Loughborough Road, Hoton Leicester LE12 5SF Please make cheques payable to WEA Birstall & Rothley Branch Visit our website! www.birstallandrothleywea.org.uk

THE ROTHLEY POST

Man jailed for rape A MAN who drove a woman to a remote location near Cropston reservoir and then sexually assaulted her has pleaded guilty to kidnap and rape.

Kevin Hills (39) of Barnsdale Road, Beaumont Leys, Leicester entered a guilty plea at Leicester Crown Court on July 31.

The incident happed on Friday January 20, 2012 when the 24 year old victim met with Hills in the Leicester area. After leaving the area in his van, he threatened her with a knife and made her sit on the floor of the van before driving around the county for several hours. He later stopped near to Cropston reservoir and sexually assaulted her. Following his arrest, Hills was changed with kidnap, rape and three charges of assault by penetration.

Detective Constable Sarah Walker, who was part of the investigation team said: “The victim in this case has been very brave to come forward and report these incidents to us. She was subjected to a terrifying ordeal at the hands of Hills and has obviously been left extremely distressed by the attack.

“I know it was very difficult for her to talk about some of the things that happened and we are pleased that Hills pleaded guilty and spared her the ordeal of having to give evidence in court. Incidents as despicable as this are rare, but all rape, whatever the circumstances, is viewed by Leicestershire Police as among the most serious of offences. We would encourage anyone who has been a victim of rape to always contact police as we can assure the crime will be investigated thoroughly with support provided.”

“I hope that today’s result will go some way to reassure the public that we are committed to investigating crimes of this nature and will do everything in our power to support victims through the entire judicial process.”

Hills also pleaded guilty to eight charges of making indecent images of children. The charges relate to the period between November 2009 and February 2011.

He will be sentenced at a later date.

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SEP 2012

11

500 ash trees to be destroyed ALL OF the newly planted ash trees at Birstall’s park and ride will have to be destroyed after becoming diseased.

A county council forestry officer raised the alert after it was noticed that some of the leaves on the trees were wilting and dying.

Tests have shown that the trees are suffering from a condition known as Chalara dieback of ash, caused by the fungus Chalara fraxinea.

The council, which runs the park and ride service along with the city council, has teamed up with the Forestry Commission and Fera (Food & Environment Research Agency) to tackle the issue. 484 trees were planted on the site and will all be destroyed.

Lesley Pendleton, County Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, said: “We want to reassure people that this disease has no impact on humans or animals. The operation of the park and ride will be unaffected.

Students sail through exams STAFF AND students at the Pilbeam Academy of Dance are celebrating after successful examination results this summer.

On Sunday July 1 an all day examination and medal session was judged

by Mrs Dawn Callis of Sileby and pupils from both the Monday and Wednesday classes were joined by students from Our Lady’s Convent School, Loughborough where the Academy has classes in ballet and jazzy dance.

A total of 56 entrants covering ballet, tap, theatre, modern, jazzy dance and national syllabii produced 6 Special Commends, 22 Commends and 3 Recommendations On Tuesday July 3 an evening session judged by Miss Monica Bannister (chief examiner) of Nuneaton, saw a total of 24 entrants from the Tuesday senior classes produce a further 6 Special Commends and 10 Commends, covering ballet, tap, modern and national syllabii.

Spokesman John Sambrook said: “Well done to all the girls and boys who took part. These results finish off our year splendidly and are a testament to the hard work you and the teachers have put in throughout the year.

“We shall start the autumn term on Monday September 3 and look forward to you all getting into ‘show business’ mood as we prepare for our show in December.”

Pic: the diseased trees Sadly the trees will have to be destroyed on site but this is necessary to prevent the disease from spreading. We are taking advice on the disposal of the trees which will be replaced.”

The Forestry Commission and Fera are currently investigating the source of the disease – the trees were supplied by a nursery. There are no other reported local cases.

60-90 per cent of Denmark’s ash trees have been lost to the disease and the Forestry Commission is concerned as Birstall is the second case of the disease to be reported in England this year.

Dr John Morgan, Head of the Forestry Commission’s Plant Health Service, said: “This is a very worrying development. C fraxinea is an aggressive pathogen which has the potential to inflict considerable damage on Britain’s ash trees.

“We are urging anyone who has

received ash trees in the past five years to check their trees’ health and to report any suspicious symptoms to us without delay.”

Further information and a pest alert factsheet can be viewed at www.forestry.gov.uk/ashdieback

12 THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2012

Garden get-together for club THE SUMMER activities of the Thurcaston and Cropston Gardening Club continued through July and August.

The July event was a ‘garden trail’ in Cropston. The three gardens taking part had all opened their gardens during the Open Gardens weekend, were very different from each other, and were also close to each other. This was an evening for members and their guests, and we spent about half an hour in each of the first two gardens. The owners of the final visit provided not only a lovely garden, but also excellent food, drink, and warm hospitality. In this final garden, members and guests were able to relax and socialise.

The evening was designed to be an informal social event, based on local gardens – and it seemed to work very well. The Club committee wish to thanks the members who allowed their gardens to be visited, as well as those who offered their gardens as part of the trail but were not included this year.

The August event was in the Memori-

GOOD NEWS Yoga Classes restart in Mountsorrel & Rothley

On Tues Sept 11, 2012 at Mountsorrel Memorial Hall, Leicester Rd, Mountsorrel from 7-9pm

This well established class is taught by a qualified tutor and is suitable for people with any level of experience in the practice of Yoga. New members of all abilities and especially those that have never experienced Yoga before are most welcome to join. Please come and join us. Yoga is fun! Come and experience Yoga and enjoy that experience.

For more information contact: Moira on 0116 2302 402

Pic: club members on their own graden trail al Hall was a talk about Autumn colour

by Stuart Dixon, titled ‘they think it’s all over’. This talk was a ‘walk through Stuart’s garden’. The garden, renovated over many years, has a focus on perennial plants and old roses. Stuart talked about a range of perennial plants that provide excellent late colour in the garden. These included rudbeckia, helenium, anthemis, dahlia, phlox and aster.

Stuart showed us a range of excellent photographs, mostly taken in his garden, to illustrate his talk and gave lots of advice and tips on growing these wonderful plants.

This was an entertaining and informative talk, and enjoyed by a very good turn out for our first August meeting for a number of years.

The Club’s remaining meetings of the year are: • Wednesday 10 October – Arable Margin Flora – Richard Penson • Wednesday 14 November – Gardener’s Almanac – Stuart Phillips • Wednesday 12 December – An Evening with Howard Drury For information of any of these events

call Dave Haddon on (0116) 235 9758.

All these events start 7.45pm at the Memorial Hall, Thurcaston.

The club welcomes visitors and new members. If any of these final events of the year appeal to you, then come along and give it a try. The fee is only £3.00 per meeting (with ‘special offers’ if you wish to join for the rest of the year!).

From Thurcaston & Cropston Gardening Club

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is still required if you are selling or renting out your house.

Call David Jackson on 0781 5519490 to arrange your EPC

NHW news & crime report Crime Update Burglaries are still an issue though they have again fallen in number. Resources are being dedicated to the area and tackling the problem.

We have had a number of reports of antisocial behaviour which we are starting to tackle by talking directly to the parents of those involved. Advice is being given but warnings will be issued if the problem persists. I would ask that residents do try to be tolerant of children playing though – especially during the summer holidays – we were all kids once!

Good News: Recently two people were arrested on suspicion of burglary in Rothley and have subsequently been charged and are due to attend court. Another male has also admitted to a burglary in Rothley.

We have had a drop in the number of burglaries reported but we continue to target those people who are involved in this type of crime. We have increased patrols but I would still ask people to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious.

I have received a number of complaints about vehicles parked on pavements causing an obstruction. We will be checking this and issuing tickets if appropriate. Please park considerately, making sure people, pushchairs and wheelchairs can get past easily.

We conducted a beat surgery with the AA on July 4 where we offered free anti theft screws to be fitted to number plates – we had over 150 people turn up over the day! Great support.

How to contact us You can contact your local neighbourhood policing team – PC 2029 Ed Stephenson and PCSO 6595 Alex Bierne – by telephoning 101, selecting option 2 and when prompted, tap in identification no.2029 or 6595 to leave us a message.

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. We are also on Twitter so please follow us for up to date info – Charnwoodwest.

Crime Report: June & July Theft: Jun 12, metal table stolen from Templar Way garden; Jun 21, plant stolen Swithland Lane; July 7 theft stores Burglary: Hallfields Lane (2), Brownhills Crescent, Swithland Lane, Church Street, Kiln Garth, Breech Hedge Burglary non-dwelling: Mountsorrel Lane Damage: Town Green St, paintwork damaged on car The next issue of

THE ROTHLEY POST will be published on Nov 10.

The copy deadline is Oct 26.

THE ROTHLEY POST

Cream teas for Monday club THE MONDAY Club experienced a very happy afternoon on July 9, enjoying a well presented Strawberry Cream Tea at the “Wheatsheaf” in Thurcaston.

Thirty two Members and visitors attended and we comfortably occupied the restaurant. We were also fortunate enough to journey to and from the venue in sunshine, which, in view of recent weather conditions, was a blessing!

The purpose of our annual strawberry cream tea, is to raise money for our yearly elected charities. This year we had chosen the NSPCC, and as a result of a generously provided table of raffle prizes we raised £40 pounds. Our total this year to date, is a worthy £100 plus and we have further projects later this year to raise hopefully, in the region of £200 to £300.

On August 13 we started the meeting with the knowledge Mrs Diana Whatton had taken the opportunity to celebrate her birthday which took place on August 8, by once again treating the membership to her truly delicious meringues.

The resplendent table greeted us as we walked through the front door, commemorating the event. A huge thank you to Diana, who never fails to please us.

Our speaker was Mr Brian Johnson with an in depth study of the origin and development of industry in Leicester from the 1800s to present day, entitled “Made in Leicester”.

Mr Johnson accompanied his descriptions of the whereabouts of the many well known factories and original business premises, by the use of some thought provoking photography.

Our free prize draw was won by Mrs Anne Frisby.

Our next meeting on September 10, will be our annual Harvest Bring and Buy supporting our Charity, NSPCC. There will be FREE admittance - everyone welcome - and it would be appreciated if a contribution of any sort could be made to the Sales Table i.e. books, magazines, knick-knacks, toiletries apart from fruit and Veg (Tinned or Fresh) and, of course, cakes and tarts.

We thought this year’s competition should be favourite savoury dishes. Recipes for the dishes entered should accompany the item and can be duplicated on request and supplied at a cost of 25p each, also going towards the charity fund-raising. There will be free admittance for this meeting, so please encourage your friends to come along and enjoy the club’s happy atmosphere and their contributions would be very much appreciated for this very worthy cause.

Any details required concerning the venue, please ring me on 0116 2363467.

From Ann Farndon, The Monday Club, Anstey, Thurcaston & Cropston

SEP 2012

13

Swan and cygnets killed by dog AN ADULT swan and two cygnets have been killed by a dog at Watermead Country Park.

Watermead swan volunteer Julie said: “For a brief moment in time we saw Zaura the grandmother very happy with her new partner and two little chicks.

Sadly that was not to last. She lost both little chicks and then I went down to the park to find her new partner dead. He’d been savaged and killed by a dog. Zaura’s second partner to be killed like that in five months. It broke my heart and has upset a lot of people too. So many of the public were going down to watch this story and enjoying it.

“Both of these dog attacks were very nasty, but swan and dog injuries are not uncommon. I see and get to know about quite a lot as a rescuer. A few of these include one of our cygnets that was killed by three dogs a few days ago. The owners walked off and left it injured.

There was also another attack not long ago where an owner allowed its dog to run up to a cygnet. The dog suddenly pinned the cygnet down and dug its

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teeth into it. After special care and £100 costs if survived.”

She added: “The vast majority of swan and dog injuries are actually caused by really nice people who wouldn’t dream of letting their dogs injure a swan. Their dogs end up near the swans either because they have allowed them to go near them or because their dogs have run off up to them. I hear things like “It’s never done that before” or “I didn’t think it would harm it”. The owner is then really upset about what has happened and the enjoyment they’ve wrecked for others .

“If you let your dog near a swan, the dog doesn’t know the swan and the swan doesn’t know the dog. That’s how it happens. The worst injuries are those caused to swans with cygnets because the swans will protect their young. A swan also has the capability to drown a dog. It will use its wings and body to push the dog under the water and hold it there until it’s killed it. Swans do not live in water 100% of the time. They get out and walk round and exercise. They eat grass as part of their diet. Their webbed feet are not designed for running and being chased. It stresses them out and causes injuries.”

The County Council advise that if you see swans being fed or not in the water you should keep your dog on a lead until you have walked by.

Julie said: “We have lots of really fantastic dog owners at Watermead Country Park. They make the park a really nice place to be and I find them really considerate and helpful with the work I do. I’d like to say to thank you to them all for what they do. I’m sure they won’t be impressed by what’s happened.”

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PILBEAM ACADEMY of DANCE Tel: 01509 816117 Classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern & National for children from age 3.

Held at Rothley Village Hall, on Monday & Tuesday evening, & at Rothley Baptist Church, Woodgate, from 4.30pm on Wednesday

Enjoy a complimentary therapy treatment in a calm relaxing atmosphere. Meet & chat to other patients & carers over a cup of tea. Therapies available include aromatherapy massage, reflexology, Indian head massage & reiki

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14 THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2012

Historic stained glass & guided walk GLASS IS the archetypal fragile material but All Saints’ Church in Thurcaston has examples of medieval stained glass that have survived - just - through six centuries of change.

Instead of our usual outside visit for June, we moved next door into the nave of the church and welcomed Paul Sharpling, advisor to the Diocese of Leicester, to tell us about them.

Rector Richard Hurd had most of the stained glass removed from the church in the 18th century for being too “Catholic”.

However, fragments from various windows were preserved and at an unknown date they were brought together to form a central light of the East Window. Paul told us that, despite the fragmentary state of the glass today, it is of national importance.

Most of the glass dates from the early 15th century, though small pieces may be a hundred years older. We know that at least some of it was donated by John de Mershden: rector of Thurcaston and a canon of Windsor, whose brass lies in the chancel. The window includes a charming image of him kneeling at prayer in a red robe. This image of the donor and those of three angels can be recognized as the work of John Thornton, who was the greatest stained glass artist of his day. The window was probably made at Thornton’s workshop in Coventry before he departed in 1405 to create his masterwork, the Great East Window of York Minster.

It was glaziers from York Minster who refashioned Thurcaston’s window in 1972.

They skillfully arranged the fragments to recall a traditional depiction of the Trinity, in which God the Father supports Christ on the cross. Although the original figure of Christ has been lost, we still have two flying angels catching drops of blood from his wounds. A central roundel contains another angel representing the evangelist Matthew; it would once have had three companions. Two more roundels contain heraldic symbols, namely a swan representing the de Bohun family (Earls of Hereford and Northampton) and a hart representing King Richard II. At the bottom of the window are text fragments reading MARG and A:F, which probably refer to Margaret Falconer of the family who were lords of the manor of Thurcaston. The background is made up of a jumble of arches, pinnacles and battlements with small heads peeping out and it is worth exploring the details to imagine the fantastic scene that the original set of windows must have displayed.

Following a long period of almost constant rain, the evening of July 17 was fine and dry for our walk around the original village of Birstall, guided by two members of Birstall and District Local History Society, John Kilby and Michael Smith.

Our tour began at the Village Hall, which was originally built in 1870 as the Village School and served as such until 1928 when the purchase of land on Wanlip Lane enabled the construction of larger premises to house the Junior and Senior schoolchildren. The old Village School was retained until 1936 as the Infants’ School, which before 1929 had been housed in the Reading Room on Birstall Road (formerly known as Education Road up to the junction with Church Hill). Today, the “Reading Room”, which has had several previous roles, is in use as a gymnasium. It was in 1936 that the old Village School was con-

Pic: a stained glass window in All Saints’ Church

verted to become an all-purpose Village Hall.

Moving along School Lane, with our guides having secured the owner’s permission, we were able to view, from the outside, a delightful example of a cruck beam cottage, which is tucked away behind some other properties and possibly dates back around 500 years. Retracing our steps we approached the corner of Church Hill – the cottage on the corner was originally three separate dwellings and one was used as the Church Vestry house. Further along, there is another pretty thatched cottage secreted behind a former barn, now converted into two homes.

In 1961 St James’s Parish Church was greatly enlarged by the completion of an extension to the church which cost £45,000. A former Birstall resident, John Hannah, served in the R.A.F. as a wireless operator and gunner on a Hampden Bomber plane during World War 2. After a raid over Antwerp on the night of 15th/16th September 1940, John’s plane was badly damaged and on fire, but thanks to his extreme bravery, after the pilot had ordered the crew to bale out, ignoring this order, John managed to put out the fire and the aircraft got back to England safely.

At the age of 18 years, John was the youngest person at that time to be awarded the Victoria Cross and he is commemorated at St James’s Church. Across the road from the church are the Abbeyfield Society flatlets for the elderly. The first stage of this project, named Barnes House, was opened

in 1971, then in 1986, another new part, named Grove House, was visited by the Prince and Princess of Wales, Prince Charles being there in his capacity as President of the Abbeyfield Society.

Moving on to Mill Close which leads down to the river, where, during the 1930’s, there was a proliferation of rats, we heard an entertaining tale, concerning a man named Jim “Snap” Green, who earned a living as a rat catcher. Together with his dog, Nip, his prowess at disposing of numerous rats made him a well-known and popular figure in the local community.

Jim’s and Nip’s exploits were featured in the Leicester Mercury, such was the importance of their achievements at the time!

As we continued along Front Street, it became more obvious that Birstall’s character has undergone many changes over the years, particularly where previous buildings have been demolished to make way for new, some of which have enhanced the area and others which have not. One of the attractive cottages on the corner opposite St Theresa’s Catholic Church, provided

by Elizabeth While in the late 1800’s, housed the first telephone exchange in the village and another was the Police House.

The present St Theresa’s was constructed and completed in 1988 through the generosity of local entrepreneurial resident, the late Hughie Murphy, to replace the church that had been in use on Wanlip Lane since 1941.

The Co-operative (formerly Somerfield’s) Supermarket stands on the site of what was The Lawn Cinema which closed in 1970, and the rather ugly group of shops, known as Libra Parade, were erected in 1967 following the demolition of five picturesque cottages on Front Street – some years previously, these cottages were used as Birstall Workhouse, so maybe they had unhappy memories for some people.

I have barely touched on all the interesting information that John and Michael were able to tell us – between them they have a wealth of fascinating anecdotal stories to tell about the place that is clearly very special to them both.

Our remaining meetings for 2012 will all be held in the Harrison Room attached to All Saints’ Church, Thurcaston, each beginning at 7.30pm as follows:

Home Carers Required

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Up to £7.25hr, plus travel expenses. Telephone essential. Ring Debbie between 8.30am & 4.30pm for more information on

0116 2696247 (quoting reference BP) Help At Home (Egerton Lodge) Ltd

Sep 18: “Life on a Tudor Manor” – speaker Alison Coates.

Oct 16: “The Civil War in Leicestershire” – speaker Trevor Parr.

Nov 15: Short AGM prior to “Read all about it” (local people in the news) – speaker Brenda Hooper.

There is no meeting in December.

From Jennifer Kennington, Thurcaston & Cropston Local History Society

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

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THE ROTHLEY POST

Men charged with burglary

Planning applications

Splashing time YOUNG PEOPLE can make all the right waves in a new fun event at South Charnwood Leisure Centre in Parkstone Road, Syston.

The Friday night ‘Splash Bash’ is for eight to 16 year olds who want to enjoy time in the swimming pool with their friends – and splashout or chill out to the latest sounds. Under-eights can attend the session if accompanied by an adult. As a special introductory offer, the ‘Splash Bash’ entry price of £3.20 includes a free drink and snack after the session.

Cllr Paul Harley, Charnwood Borough Council’s Cabinet member for Leisure and Culture, said: “This is an ideal opportunity for a bit of fun in the pool for this younger age group and part of the wide range of sporting activities on offer in the borough.”

There will be special occasions when a twin-track inflatable will be available which can be used to hold fun races between two children at the same time.

Further details on activities at the leisure centre are available on 0116 2640057 or by visiting: www.charnwoodleisure.com

15

County schools good

TWO MEN, aged 30 and 31, have been charged with burgling a house in Kiln Garth, Rothley.

The incident is alleged to have occurred on Tuesday July 24

P/12/1721/2: Cropston House Farm, 7 Cropston Rd, Cropston – erection of porch to front of dwelling P/12/1656/2: 180 Station Rd, Cropston – erection of extensions to front, side and rear of dwelling and detached triple garage to front P/12/1555/2: 14 Cropston Court, off Cropston Rd, Cropston – erection of single storey extension to rear of dwelling P/12/1574/2: 6 Caudle Close, Cropston – erection of single storey extensions to front, side and rear of dwelling P/12/1741/2: Land at Brookfield Farm, Hallfields Lane, Rothley P/12/1740/2: Rothley Church of England Primary School, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley P/12/1723: 40 Town Green Street, Rothley – erection of single storey extension to rear of dwelling P/12/1716/2: 25 Swithland Lane, Rothley – widen driveway and formation of dropped kerb P/12/1609/2: The Co-operative 929-931 Loughborough Rd, Rothley - installation of 24hr ATM cash machine into front elevation P/12/1502/2: 25 Breech Hedge, Rothley – erection of 1st floor rear extension

SEP 2012

LATEST OFSTED figures show that Leicestershire’s schools are better than the national average.

Rotary’s cash gift £1300 HAS been donated to the charity Wishes 4 Kids by the Rotary Club of the Soar Valley.

The founder of the Leicester based charity, that grants wishes to terminally ill children, came to speak to Rotarians about the work of the charity, now in its tenth year.

Russell Brickett was presented with a cheque by Rotary Club president Graham Martin (pictured above).

Longslade’s new garden shortlisted A GROUP of Year 11 students at Longslade Community College have transformed an overgrown piece of land on the college grounds into a vegetable plot.

The students, Josh Gillett, Jack Goodwin, Cale Borland, Connor Garner, Dayle Lefort and Liam Eldridge, were shortlisted for Charnwood Borough Council’s “We Don’t Muck Around Awards’.

Jack and Cale represented the group and the college at the award evening

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held on June 14 where they enjoyed a full silver service three course meal and shared their table with three councillors and an MP. The students thoroughly enjoyed the evening and although they did not win an award they were congratulated by the mayor and councillors. Nigel Jarvis, the staff member at the college who has managed the project, said: “They were a credit to Longslade and should be extremely proud of their efforts.”

The project will be continuing next term with a brand new team that will improve more of the garden, as well as

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maintaining the crops that are already in place. It is hoped that some of the produce can be used within the college catering and food technology departments and also to raise a small amount of funding to cover costs of gardening equipment and seeds.

PROPRIETOR MR RICK ASTILL, RESIDENT OF BIRSTALL

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The next issue of

THE ROTHLEY POST will be published on Nov 10.

The copy deadline is Oct 26.

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Information published by the education watchdog reveals that last year, over there quarters of county schools were rated good or better.

Compared to similar areas in the UK, Leicestershire ranks top with its best-ever rate of 76 per cent.

Schools can be rated either outstanding, good, satisfactory or inadequate. Just one per cent of Leicestershire’s schools are in special measures, compared to the national average of four per cent.

Ivan Ould, Leicestershire County Council cabinet member for the children and young people’s service, said: “This is a great result and shows that we have been effective in challenging schools and helping to bring about positive Ofsted reports.

“Like councils across the country, our role is changing but we will continue to be a champion for children and ensure that schools support each other to maintain standards.” The move to re-shape children and young people’s services has been sparked by new national rules, schools becoming academies and moving out of council control and a reduction in funding.

These mean that services provided by local authorities are changing and that a number of responsibilities are moving from the County Council to schools.

• Ofsted compares councils with similar economies and demographics – these are called ‘statistical neighbours’. The table featuring Leicestershire and similar areas is below: Leicestershire – 76% Central Beds – 75% West Sussex – 74% Hampshire – 74% South Gloucs – 71% Worcestershire – 66% Staffordshire – 66% Essex – 64% Warwickshire – 61% Kent – 59% North Somerset – 55% Advertise in

THE ROTHLEY POST 47 x 59mm £20 • 47 x 120mm £36 98 x 59mm £36 • 98 x 120mm £60

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16 THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2012

Students design mural A MURAL made up of artwork by children from four Birstall schools was officially unveiled at the Birstall park and ride in July.

The mural, which takes up one wall of the park and ride’s terminal Pic: Admiring the mural are four of the students who helped create building, was put together as part of a it: Amy Diyar, Grace McGreal, Robyn Howgill & Deborah Gbadeyan competition between local schools.

The various pieces involved tell the story of Birstall’s history, from the Ice Age to World War 2. Children from Highcliffe Primary, Riverside Primary, Stonehill High School and Longslade College all took part in the competition and each school will receive a commemorative certificate for their students’ had work.

The competition, organised by the Midlands Highway Alliance Skills Academy, Leicester Education Business Company and Birstall Parish Council, was funded by Jelson Homes who contributed to the cost of the park and ride.

Lelsey Pendleton, Cabinet Member for Environment & Transport at Leicestershire County Council, which runs the park and ride along with Leicester City Council, said: “The children have put together something rather special to represent their local area, and park and ride passengers are sure to appreciate it.”

The purpose of the mural is to engage the local community with the park and ride project, and to leave a lasting legacy. Chairman of Birstall Parish Council, Patrick Cleere, said: “We’re very proud of our local youngsters’ hard work and were happy to encourage them to learn about their local history.”

THE ROTHLEY POST YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Longslade College, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester LE4 4GH Editor: Mr Jerry Jackson Editorial/Advertising (Tel & Fax)

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