THE ROTHLEY POST YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
Delivered to Rothley, Thurcaston & Cropston
NOV/DEC 2017
www.birstallpost.co.uk
No. 127
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Churchyard wildlife CHILDREN ENJOYED exploring the churchyard at Rothley Parish church at a wildlife event in October. Organised by the church and led by Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust, young people aged 4 to 11 identified insects and beetles, tree species, looked at examples of locally collected fungi and created leaf prints on fabric. Pic (right): Rachel Horton (5) with her mum Alison making a leaf print
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Rothley winemaker’s award A ROTHLEY winemaker has won a business award. Liz Robson was named Entrepreneur of the Year at the recent Leicester Mercury’s Women in Business awards. Liz founded Rothley Wine Estate three years ago when she retired from her post as Principal Lecturer in Midwifery at De Montfort University. Originally called “Kingfishers Pool” the vineyard was re-branded because of confusion with hot tub companies. In this period Liz has turned a hobby vineyard into a small commercial vineyard and limited company, with successes in international, national and regional wine competitions. Still wines and fruit wines are made on site, with the popular sparkling wines made at Halfpenny Green Wine estate from the Rothley grown grapes. The recent introduction of wine tasting has proved popular and is attracting trade to other businesses be-
Gifts of wine CP ACCOUNTANCY Ltd in Rothley has recently rewarded some clients by giving away bottles of locally produced wine from the Rothley Wine Estate.
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Pic: Liz Robson tending her vines & (below) receiving her award
cause guests book into local hotels and order vineyard hampers from local delicatessens. Liz said: “This award was totally unexpected. I thought such awards went to larger concerns. I had enjoyed participating on a panel discussion the week before, chaired by Rosemary Connelly, but had no idea I was a serious contender for the entrepreneur award. I feel really honoured to receive the lovely glass trophy, and proud to be part of the Leicester food and drink ‘scene.’” She added: “Creating the business has been hard work and I would like to acknowledge the support from my partner, Matthew Broughton, as well as friend Laura Hadland who assists with the wine tours/tastings, not to mention the many volunteers who prune the vines in all weathers and pick grapes at our very intense harvest periods. As soon as the awards were given we had to rush back home because of harvesting the next day, which means a 5.30am wake up call. During the harvest I barely no-
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ticed the light rain because my mind was definitely on cloud nine!” The wine estate on Westfield Lane is small, but determined to succeed in producing fine quality wines with a distinctive Leicestershire identity. Seven wines are sold under the company name of Rothley Wine Ltd and can also be purchased from local retailers, wine bars, hotels and at Ragdale Hall. The wines have won silver and bronze medals in regional and national competitions. See website www.rothleywine.com
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Caroline Dinsmore from CP Accountancy said: “We have been fortunate over the last few years with a steady gain of new clients each year from recommendation. To thank those who have recommended us, we decided to reward them with a gift that would also benefit another local business. Hopefully our gain in new clients will lead to increased sales of wine!”. Based in Rothley, CP Accountancy is a small, friendly, professional firm who specialise in looking after all accountancy and taxation affairs for small businesses in the local area. www.cpaccountancyltd.co.uk
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THE ROTHLEY POST
2
Get fit for life with local trainers
New care home appoints manager
HOW WOULD you like to get fit in a private friendly training A BRAND new Rothley residential and dementia care home has moved one step closer to opening after employing studio? Home Manager, Sue Shaw.
Rothley based Urbanbodyfit helps absolute beginners to hard core trainers, offering a mixture of one to one sessions
or exercise classes. “We are sensitive to the fact that some of our clients are body conscious so we have purposely avoided putting mirrors in the gym” said Scott Kempin from Urbanbodyfit. “We are not the typical muscle type gym, we have real clients who want to change their lives, not pose about looking in the mirror at themselves!” he added. Located off Woodgate in Rothley, Urbanbodyfit is open from 6am to 9pm and has three professionally qualified trainers. Scott said: “We can also help with nutrition, something that can be quite confusing to a lot of people.” www.urbanbodyfit.co.uk (0116 3552680)
Mountview care home, which is locat- Mountview a great place to live and ed on Loughborough Road, is due to work.” open its doors in November and will Paul Farmer, Managing Director of provide a home for 66 residents. Ideal Carehomes, is delighted to have The home is being constructed by Sue on board at Mountview. He said, specialist care home developer, LNT “Sue is everything we look for in a Home Care Developments, and once open will Manager – she is caring, compassionate be the 16th home for established care and prides herself on making a real provider, Ideal Carehomes. Sue is an difference to her residents and staff. It experienced Home Manager having is reassuring to know that Mountview worked with BUPA will be in such capable and Brighterkind. hands when it opens in She is particularly November”. excited to be Mountview is due to aboard the open in November Mountview journey 2017 and will hold a from the onset and public open day on will be working Sunday 19th November hard to establish where visitors can meet the home as a the staff, enjoy a guided fundamental part tour around the brand of the local Rothley new home and reserve community. rooms. Sue said: “I am A spokesman said: thrilled to be join“The state-of-the-art ing Mountview at home will have a coffee this significant time shop, cinema room, meaning I am hair salon and landinvolved right from scaped gardens for the start. The residents and their building is on visitors to enjoy. There track and looking will be a full and varied fantastic already – it is light, bright and programme of activities and trips and spacious with some great social areas innovative care technology, all for a and the view over Rothley is breath-takcomplete all-inclusive price to ensure ing. The next piece in the puzzle is to clarity and simplicity for residents.” Pic: Sue Shaw, Home Manager at Mountview Care recruit the very best care team and we Home, Rothley will have everything in place to make
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THE ROTHLEY POST
NOV 2017
Tone up • Get fitter & Stronger Change your body shape Lose inches around your waist We offer: Boxercise Circuit training Residential Retreats Personal 1-2-1 training
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LARGE SELECTION OF CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
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ROTHLEY PARK Cricket Club finished the 2017 season in style with a celebration dinner at Beedles Lake Golf Club. This year has been the anniversary of the club’s founding in 1817 by Matthew Babington and Thomas Babington Macaulay. During the club dinner, Allan Lamb,
former England and Northamptonshire batsman talked about some of the highlights of his international career, especially with England touring teams in Australia and the West Indies. Former first-class cricketer and Test Match Special commentator, Charles Dagnall was the MC for the evening. Pics: (right) cutting the cake together, James Upton RPCC Chairman, Richard Williams RPCC Club Captain and Allan Lamb former test cricketer;(top)some of the former players at RPCC reunited at the club dinner
Park’s new wood A NEW memorial wood designed to offer a space for quiet reflection has been created in Bradgate Park. The Memorial Wood is an area of woodland to the side of the accessible carriageway that crosses the Park. It offers a tranquil setting overlooking Cropston Reservoir and is reached by a natural stone path. Rich in native wildlife species, the area is bound by traditional metal deer fencing, has seating and a central cast iron deer sculpture, set on a natural stone plinth. Peter Tyldesley, Director of the Bradgate Park Trust said: “Bradgate Park is a special place for many people and one that is held close to the hearts of visitors and their families. We have been able to dedicate an area for quiet reflection as the Park’s Memorial Wood next to the main carriageway that crosses the Park.” Bradgate Park, consisting of 900 acres, is the historic home of Lady Jane Grey, the nine
day Queen, and was presented in Trust in perpetuity in 1928 by Charles Bennion to the County of Leicestershire and City of Leicester, as an open or Public Park for the purposes of recreation. The generosity of Charles Bennion has ensured that generations of the local and wider community have had access to the park, which also supports the protection of wildlife, particularly the herd of deer that freely roam. It is the eighth most
visited park of its kind in the country. Charles Bennion was also a prominent local Freemason, a Master of four Lodges and was Provincial Grand Treasurer. The wood has been created with support from the Leicestershire and Rutland Freemasons, along with Leicestershire County Council and The Woodland Trust. It was opened by the Pro Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge England, Peter Lowndes, on October 5, 2017. Pics: (from top) the deer sculpture; Charles Bennion; the Memorial Wood PHOTOS: MARK KENT
Continued on page 5
THE ROTHLEY POST
Dinner closes season
A FULL meeting of Rothley Parish Council was held on June 19. It was agreed to obtain quotations for repointing the side of the Village Hall and for clearing the garden. Mike Ferguson was co-opted to fill a vacancy on the council. A full meeting of Rothley Parish Council was held on August 21. A member of the public praised the council’s work restoring the War Memorial at Cross Green. It was reported that consideration of the purchase of a new projector screen for Rothley Centre could be given once the terms of the lease with Charnwood Borough Council are finalised. If the field next to Rothley cemetery comes up for sale it was agreed that enquiries should be made with a view to purchasing it, to extend the area available for cemetery use. It was agreed to purchase 15 lamp post poppies from the Royal British Legion for display during Remembrance period. It was agreed to award a grant of £350 to the Rothley Good Neighbour Scheme. Concern was raised regarding the speed of traffic on Loughborough Road when entering the village. The council agreed to Charnwood’s recommendation that a new parish be created to accommodate the Broadnook development of 1650 new homes south of Rothley. The Fowke Street youth cabin has been painted and the outside area tidied up. A full meeting of Rothley Parish Council was held on September 18. It was reported that Rothley Beat Officer PC Leye Price had left the police. PC Glen Spiby has been assigned to cover Rothley. It was agreed to donate a sum up to £100 for the spring bulbs to be planted. The County Council say they do not have the budget to paint the bollards on Town Green Street and they have invited the parish council to do it. Borough Councillor Leon HadjiNikolaou said that residents have reported their frustration and anger at the re-submission of a planning application for 175 new homes on Westfield Lane. He reported that residents on the new West Cross Lane development were angry that the Royal Mail had given them a Mountsorrel post code when the site is in the parish of Rothley. The post code affects property values and the cost of insurance. Chairman Percy Hartshorn reported that the parish council’s objection to the Westfield Lane development had been prepared after taking advice from a consultant who thinks the application will be turned down and then appealed. The Council will undertake a survey
NOV 2017
Parish Council notes
Continued from page 4 of the trees it is responsible for on its land. It was reported that there was more disturbance of the ground by badgers at Rothley cemetery. The Council agreed to install a litter bin and dog waste bin on the Fowke Street playing field, and a new metal gate at the Town Green Street playing field. A local landscape gardener has offered to landscape the grass bank opposite Babington Court at cost price. It was agreed to seek permission from Charnwood Borough Council, who own the land. A full meeting of Rothley Parish Council was held on October 16. Comment was made that the level of policing in the village was unsatisfactory and it was agreed to write to the Chief Inspector, the Chief Constable and the Police & Crime Commissioner, Lord Willy Bach with the parish council’s concerns. It was reported that a business on Woodgate had had its windows broken and items stolen. A member of the public reported that NHW area co-ordinators were becoming frustrated at the lack of support they were getting from the police. As a regular visitor to the Rothley Centre, she said that centre users should be more involved with running the centre. The centre is managed by the Rothley Centre Management Trust and elections are held in May. Chairman Percy Hartshorn said that the terms for extending the lease of the Rothley Centre from Charnwood Borough Council were still to be finalised. Once this has been done a programme of improvements can be prepared. It is planned to write to all user groups in January with details of new hire charges. The centre has the lowest hire charges in the area, said Cllr Hartshorn, and the building has to pay its way and be run on a sounder commercial basis. It was agreed that representations from the council attend a meeting organised by Sileby Parish Council, which is
trying to co-ordinate youth work across the area. County Councillor Peter Osborne said he did not support Mountsorrel parish council’s bid to extend its boundary into what is currently Rothley.
A FULL meeting of Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Coun- A MOBILE hairdresser has joined a charity that supports people experiencing medical hair loss. cil was held on June 15. Chairman Mark Charles reported that Ellena Parker, who also works as he had met with Lord Willy Bach, the senior stylist at Elan Hair in Rothley, has Police Crime Commissioner. They has been trained by Salons that Care – a discussed the Vehicle Activated Speed national network of independent salons data that is collected in the parish. It is and hair professionals who provide a hoped that visits from mobile speed wig customisation service for their clicameras can be arranged with Leicester- ents, and are part of the charity shire police. ‘Mynewhair’. A member of the public reported that Ellena said: “I went with a close the re-routing of the Thurcaston bus friend of mine to a mynewhair Salon that service is on hold. The amount of cars Cares in Leicestershire to support her parking on Rectory Lane, Thurcaston, is during a wig fitting. I was truly inspired an ongoing issue. by the compassionate and unique service Councillors considered a request for they provided. a dog waste bin to be installed on the “When I got home I went straight corner of Station Road and Cropston online to find more about mynewhair Road as dog owners are putting dog and decided to book onto both of the waste in the litter bin next to a commem- training curses. I loved the courses as it orative seat where people sit and eat. It was really exciting to learn new skills was agreed to find out who owns the bin and how they can help support so many and if it could be replaced with a bin people.” with a lid. She added: “Having only recently set A full meeting of Thurcaston & Cropston Parish Council was held on August 17 (there was no meeting in July). The clerk reported that Severn Trent were allegedly disposing by auction of land at the back of Wallis Close. The council agreed to purchase the BT phone box on Station Road, Cropston at a cost of £1. It will be supplied and fitted with a defibrillator at a cost of £2145. It was agreed to purchase a vehicle activated flashing STOP sign at a cost of £2750.It will be installed on Cropston Road in Cropston for vehicles coming into Cropston to warn them they must stop at the junction with Station Road/Causeway Lane/Reservoir Road as many drivers fail to stop, making it dangerous to exit Causeway Lane. The County Council will pay for the pole and the electricity supply.
NOV 2017
Line defends title THE ROTHLEY POST
Stylist trains to support charity
DEFENDING FORMULA 3 champion George Line from Thurcaston secured a podium finish at the fifth round of the 2017 championships at Snetterton. His car needed a complete rebuild after another driver lost control of his car and drove into the back of George during qualifying on Saturday. At the race on Sunday George was able to secure third place. At Brands Hatch in October engine failure meant George did not finish and he is currently in sixth position in the championship.
Pic: Ellena Parker
up my mobile hairdresser business I decided following my training I would provide a specialist wig service for people in the comfort of their own home. I want to help give those affected by hair loss their confidence back. I am so pleased I am able to do this as a member of mynewhair.” There are currently around 900 hairdressers and 800 salons in the mynewhair’s network, across all areas of the UK. To find out more about Ellena Parker Hair visit www.facebook.com.pg/EllenaParkerHair or call Ellena on 0779 1907068
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Sun shines for club’s annual show
Pics from top: new to the winners list - Robert Gregory being presented with the Novice Trophy by Cllr Deborah Taylor; a superb collection of vegetables; some of the many visitors to the show; the high standard was maintained in the flower and floral art categories
The gardening club meets in the Thurcaston and Cropston Memorial Hall. New members and visitors are made most welcome. £3 per meeting.
Wednesday 8th November, 7.45 pm – Fruit Growing – Philip Aubury Preparation, planting, pruning, general maintenance and the best cultivars to
try. For more information, please call Dave Haddon (0116) 235 9758 or Richard Elks (0116) 236 8313
THE ROTHLEY POST
Club spokesman Richard Elks explains: The early morning sunshine brought the exhibitors out in a steady stream and we were pleased to see the usual array of excellent exhibits. When the judging began, the show benches had filled up nicely and it was the superb quality of the displays in the flower and floral art section that led the way, closely followed by the home baking, photographs and arts & crafts. We must give extra special thanks to the children of the Richard Hill School and the Guides and Brownies for their outstanding contributions to the children’s section. Extra tables had to be provided to display in excess of 150 colourful, imaginative and, in some cases, quirky entries, giving the judges a particularly difficult job with so many to choose winners from. The sun continued to shine throughout the day which helped towards the high visitor numbers in the afternoon, who, after viewing the exhibits had the added attraction of a Tombola table groaning with prizes. Congratulations to Mr Paul Stubbs, a long-time supporter of the Show. He once again ‘produced the goods’ and deservedly retained the Sedgwick Cup awarded for the highest overall points total. The Best Exhibit in Show trophy went to Mrs Lesley Day whose flower arrangement entitled ‘Fire & Ice’ received special praise for its excellence. This year the Leicester & Leicestershire Horticultural Judges’ Guild celebrate their Diamond Anniversary and to mark the occasion they sponsored a class for ‘1 specimen pot plant, 1 specimen flower and 1 specimen vegetable’. The first prize and certificate went to Mr Phil Dews. New to our winners list this year are Jane Westby, for preserves and wine and Robert Gregory for the novice trophy. A special ‘well done’ to them with congratulations going to all our other winners for their sterling efforts. A special mention must also go to Leah Holyoake who did a ‘Mo Farah’ by winning three Gold medals to add to the three she won last year, two from the children’s section and one awarded along with the Junior Trophy (exhibitor under 16 with the most points in the adult classes). Is the triple, triple a possibility? Thanks to Cllr Deborah Taylor for finding the time in her busy schedule to come along and present cups and trophies to all of our winners. Thanks to all the exhibitors and visitors and everyone who contributed towards the smooth running of the Show. See you all again next year. Club Events – Autumn 2017
NOV 2017
A BUMPER crop of colourful produce attracted a large crowd to Thurcaston & Cropston Gardening Club’s annual show in September, held at Richard Hill primary school.
THE ROTHLEY POST
NOV 2017
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Coffee Shop Rothley Methodist, Howe Lane Every Tuesday morning, 1011.30am Come rain or shine Now open : Book exchange Everyone welcome Tea, coffee, biscuits, toasted tea cake Proceeds for the Methodist Church
Birstall Running Club Meet Monday & Friday nights, 6.15 for 6.30 run Birstall School Lane playing fields – showers & toilets available We also meet on a Wednesday night at Sibson Road car park at 6.15pm for 6.30pm run Speed work sessions also available on Wednesdays for those wanting to improve Contact Deryk on
YOUR SAY...
The Rothley Post welcomes your views and opinions on any subject. Letters, which must include your name and address, (though not necessarily for publication) can be posted to: The Birstall Post, Unit 109, Greenacres, The Sidings, Leicester LE4 3BR, or handed in at Rothley library, or email: editor@birstallpost.co.uk
New members The Royal British Legion, Rothley branch, is struggling for survival! We are presently in need of present or new members to come forward to help with the running of the branch. Members need not necessarily be exservice personnel. We need a new standard bearer and fresh blood on the committee to learn the basics ready to take over when the need arises. A secretary and a treasurer would be a good start! We are a friendly few people and would make all comers welcome. An open meeting will be held in the Wilberforce Room, Rothley Court Hotel, on November 6 at 1930 hours (7.30pm). We look forward to seeing you there. This meeting may decide whether (a) to keep the branch alive, or (b) to close it down completely (we hope not). Please come and help! Margaret Hendry, Chairman
d-woods1@sky.com or Bob 07927 346640 www.birstallrc.org.uk
Tea Dance To support Alzheimer’s Research Sunday 26th November 2017 2 - 5pm St Patrick’s Parish Centre Beaumont Leys Lane, Leicester LE4 2DB Dancing to: The Karl Boettcher Dance Band Tickets £5 per adult, £15 family (2 adults 2 children) Please contact Katy 07538493913 or parish.centre@saintpatrickleicester.co.uk if you intend to come so that we bake enough cakes!
Leicestershire. Thurs 23rd Nov 2017 @ 7:30pm Fri 24th Nov 2017 @ 7:30pm Sat 25th Nov 2017 @ 1:30pm Sat 25th Nov 2017 @ 5:30pm Ticket prices; Under 5’s free with paying adult. 6-12yrs £4.00, Others £7.50 For tickets please email latimerplayers@yahoo.com or contact Christine on Tel: 0116 237 6855
ry school and we are inviting local small businesses and craft stall holders to have a stall at the event. It is an opportunity to everyone in the community to come and see the new school and get in the festive spirit. There will be stalls, festive refreshments, face painting, etc and a magical Santa’s grotto. All funds raised will support the newly established PTA and the recently opened school. If you’d like to have a stall to sell your festive goods, get in touch by email hallamfieldspta@gmail.com for more information
Saturday December 2nd 7pm
Sweet Jesu a Christmas concert at St James' the Great Church, Birstall LE4 4DN presented by Leicester Choir, CANTAMICI with pupils from Riverside Primary School.
Rothley & Birstall Birdwatching Club Thornton Reservoir-My Local Patch by Andy Smith Andy is a keen birdwatcher and Ringer and enjoys all forms of natural history, especially cetaceans. Thornton Reservoir is on his doorstep so anything unusual in the area Andy is sure to know
The Latimer Players presents
Alice In Cuckoo Land a Christmas Pantomime, by Peter Nuttall. The evil Queen of Hearts is determined that Christmas will be banned from her realm and Santa ends up locked in the dungeons. Are Old Mother Wobbly, her daughter Alice along with some familiar friends from Wonderland, able to dissuade her and return the joy of Christmas to Cuckoo Land? Join Alice, The Cheshire Cat and The Mad Hatter and see if they can save Christmas. The Memorial Hall, Thurcaston.
The programme will include Benjamin Britten's Ceremony of Carols along with carols for everyone. Tickets £10, children £3 available on the door or from 0116 2412849. Cantamici are presently recruiting altos and tenors. Interested? For more info: 0116 2675518
Christmas Stallholders wanted
about it, if not being the one to find the rarity. This is a lovely spot with a great walk around the whole of the reservoir. Tuesday 14th November 2017 at 7.30pm The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley
Community Christmas Celebration event will take place on Thursday 14 December from 5-7pm Friends of Hallam Fields school PTA is hosting its first ever Christmas event at Hallam Fields prima-
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THE ROTHLEY POST
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Members free. Visitors £2 Children free. Free on-site parking and easy access. Further information Marion Vincent 0116 2375156
Leicester Sketch Club Art Exhibition 2017 Friday October 20th to Tuesday Nov 28th 2017
THE ROTHLEY POST
NOV 2017
Mon – Sat 10am to 5pm. Sundays 11am – 5pm LASALS, The Old Library Café & Galleries, Leicester Adult Education College, 50-54 Belvoir Street, Leicester, LE1 6QL Free Admission Launch: Thursday 19th October
6pm – 8.30pm All welcome The Club is delighted to present its latest exhibition of original drawings, paintings and ceramics at LASALS, The Old Library Café & Galleries. For over 100 years, Leicester Sketch Club has encouraged and inspired local artists through a wide and varied programme of professional demonstrations, workshops, sketching days and annual exhibitions. The Club has over 100 members ranging from professional full time artists to developing part time artists and aims to encourage the artistic development of all. Non-members are welcome to many of the events the club organises. They can be found on the website www.leicestersketchclub.co.uk Meet the Artists and Art Demonstrations Sat 4th Nov 2017: 11am-3pm A chance to meet LSC artists at work and pick up tips and tantalising techniques! Free entry with refreshments available. www.leicestersketchclub.co.uk enquiries@leicestersketchclub.co.uk
Rothley Bowling Club
Autumn Fayre Saturday 18th November 2017 10.00 am – 12 noon at Rothley Centre
9
Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley Admission 50p including tea/coffee. Craft items, homemade goods, jams, pickles, cakes, etc. books, bric-a-brac, bottle tombola; raffle, refreshments. Everyone Welcome Please Come & Give Us Your Support Ratae Co-Operative Players A warm welcome is extended to all to join them in their next production
“A Christmas Carol” By Charles Dickens Adapted and Directed by John Saw at The Leicester College of Performing Arts Garden Street (off Abbey Street, near St Margaret’s Bus Station) Leicester LE1 3UA from Wednesday 15th – Saturday 18th November 2017 Evenings 7.30 pm Sat. Matinee: 2.30 pm Tickets: £8 Concessions £7 Please call ticket phone line: 0777 567 9435 or visit our website www.rataeplayers.co.uk
Film Presentations Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council “Lion” (Nov 10, 120mins)
Starring Nicole Kidman and Dev Patel, as Best Supporting Actor, "Lion" won a BAFTA for Best Adapted Screen Play. Based on a true story about a 5 year old street-boy, who fell asleep on a train. He ended up on the streets of Kolkata, one thousand miles away, as an adopted Australian. Twenty years later, he amazingly remarks, "My mother saw my face after 25 years"! "Sully: Miracle on the Hudson" December 8 (96mins) This biographical drama is directed and produced by Clint Eastwood. Starring Tom Hanks as the American pilot, Sullenberger, the film follows the emergency landing on the Hudson River, saving 155 passengers and crew. The
Drive, Rothley, Leicester, LE7 7RZ) or we can be contacted through our Facebook page, Rothley PTFA Noticeboard
Ratcliffe Chorale present a
Theme: “The Spirit of Christmas” Decorated trees & displays. Free Admission. Donations to D.N.R.C. (Defence & National Rehabilitaion Centre) Crafts & Table Tops Christmas Stalls & Decorations Refreshments & Light Lunches( both days) Hot Dogs & Pancakes (Friday) Face Painting (Saturday) Santa’s Grotto Tombola Raffle
Christmas Concert at Birstall Methodist Church on Saturday December 9th at 7.30pm Retiring collection for Church refurbishment Join the PTFA of Rothley Church of England Primary Academy for an evening of
Christmas Shopping Thursday 14th November 7.309.30pm. Tickets are £5 and include a glass of fizz. Delicious nibbles and canapes will be served and there will be a wide range of local stalls selling lovely gifts and produce for Christmas. All monies raised by the PTFA will be used to enhance the school experience of our pupils. Tickets are available from the school office (Burrow
Birstall Methodist Church
Christmas Festival 2017
hood, his glory days at the Globe, his ardent defence of his reputation. Mingling biography with snapshots of Elizabethan life and snippets from his plays, and packed with emotional punches and entertaining punchlines, this is a piece of pure theatre magic.
Friday 24th Nov: 10– 6pm Saturday 25th Nov: 10-2pm
Your Bard Friday 10 November at the Rothley Centre. William Shakespeare – the greatest playwright the world has ever seen? Or a fraud? In a superb and very funny oneman show, Royal Shakespeare Company actor Nicholas Collett will take the audience on a journey through the life of the world’s most famous writer: his child-
be a host of different stalls providing the perfect opportunity to buy some truly unique Christmas presents. A film room for the children will allow parents a bit of time to shop alone and maybe pick up one of two gifts for the younger members of the family! There will be crafts and activities for all the family to join in with and to satisfy your tastebuds a variety of food and drink will be available, including mulled wine and cider, as well as a gin stall from the local Burleigh's distillery. Carols and Christmas tunes will be performed by children from Highcliffe and other local groups. The fair is on Sunday 17th December from 2.00pm-5.00pm. £1 entry for adults, children free. We look forward to seeing you!
Birstall & District Local History Society Don’t miss it! Limited tickets available! Doors open 630, 7pm start. Tickets in advance £10 full price, £9 concessions, £1 more on the door. Limited number of seats. Simple ploughman’s £2.50. Bar. Book now – at the library, or at https://rothleycommunitylibrary.c o.uk/Live-shows.php using paypal.
Birstall’s Highcliffe Primary School PTA are running a
Christmas Extravaganza which promises to be full of fun, food and festive fares! There will
The November monthly meeting of the Society is on Thursday 9th November 2017 at 7.30pm in the Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall, Leics. The subject of the talk is the "Life of Coco Chanel". The speaker for this talk will be Julie Ede. Visitors are very welcome to join us for this talk. There will be available parking on the night on the Birstall Playing Fields through the School Lane entrance Sunday 26th November at 7pm
Ibstock Brick Brass Band Concert St Theresa’s Church
NOV 2017
subsequent publicity and investigation accuse Sully of unnecessarily ditching the aircraft. Will he be found guilty of pilot error or did birds cause not one but both engines to fail? "Their Finest" will be shown on January 12th. Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall, starting at 7.30pm. Film tickets will cost £5 which will include refreshments and a lucky prize draw during the interval. Advance tickets may be purchased via the parish office –0116 236 7626 or at the door
THE ROTHLEY POST
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Front Street, Birstall Pay on the door £5 All welcome Saturday December 2nd
Christmas Bazaar 10 till 2pm St Theresa’s Church Front Street, Birstall Raffle, Tombola, cakes, good as new clothes, To name a few
Birstall & District Art Society Tuesday, 14th November, at 7pm You are invited to join us at the Palmer-Tomkinson Centre at Cedars Academy, Wanlip Lane, to watch renowned professional artist Julia Kent giving a demonstration in acrylics entitled “Still Life”. Come along and see if you will be inspired to try your hand at this wonderful and fulfilling hobby. Refreshments available at the interval. Newcomers and visitors most welcome. Demonstration ends at 9pm Members £1; Guests £3. Free raffle. Ample parking and wheelchair access. Birstall & District Art Society For the first time our
Annual Art Exhibition will take place over two days, Saturday 4th November and Sunday 5th November, rather than the three days of previous years. The exhibition will be formally opened by Cllr Ann Marshall, Chair of Birstall Parish Council. She will also be presenting the 'Mary
Houghton Rose Bowl' in the Abstract & Experimental category (Mary's favourite genre), which has been generously donated by the Parish Council in memory of the late Mary Houghton, who was a well known and highly respected Councillor and active member of the community. Open 9.30am-5.00pm Sat & Sun. Free admission, wheelchair access, refreshments, free parking to the rear of the village hall. www.badas.co.uk
(Blue Bell at 7pm to Woodies at 8.45pm) • Christmas Eve: 10am Family Service 4pm Christingle (bring your own christingle – instructions available from school or church) and wear simple head-dress eg tinsel, tea towel or crown!
A CHRISTMAS craft fair will raise vital funds for a local charity.
Trustees Urgently Needed Rothley Community Library is a thriving local charity providing a much needed hub for a variety of community activities and events. We are now urgently seeking new trustees to fill vacancies, and we would love to talk to you if you think you might be able to help. No special requirements, just a real desire to help us make the library the best that it can be. Contact us at volunteers@rothleycommunittylib rary.co.uk
Rothley Parish Church this Christmas • Thur 14th Dec: 7.30 pm Carol Concert for local charities Jake McCarthy Trust and Robbie Anderson Cancer Trust, featuring Rothley Parish Church Choir • Sun 17th Dec: 10.30 am Sunday School Nativity play 6.30 pm Carols by Candlelight (come early and remember to bring a torch!) • Thu 21st Dec: Carols in the Pubs
Christmas craft fair
11.15 pm Midnight Communion (candlelit so remember to bring a torch!) • Christmas Day: 9am Holy Communion service (following Book of Common Prayer) 10.30 am Family Service • New Year’s Eve: 11.15pm Watch Night service to welcome in the New Year
Christmas Tree Festival 2017 supporting the Sorrel Youth Café Christ Church, Rothley Road, Mountsorrel, LE12 7JU Sat 2nd Dec, 10am – 5pm, Sun 3rd Dec, 12.30 – 3.30pm Holy Communion at 11am, Messy Church at 4pm Refreshments served Mon 4th Dec School & Pre-school Visits & Evening Ladies’ Carol Service Web page: http://cofe.mountsorrel.org/
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On Sunday November 12, local charity the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust will be holding their annual JHMT Christmas craft fair. The event, at the Rawlins Academy in Quorn, will run from 11am-4.30pm and will be a chance for Christmas shoppers to choose from a range of unique gifts made with skill, love and care by talented local artisans. Items for sale include jewellery, shabby chic furniture, home wares and accessories, paintings and artwork, glassware, candles, cards and even children’s books written by a local author. Angie Humphries from the Trust said: “The Joe Humphries Memorial Trust was formed out of the tragic loss of our amazing son Joe, a fun-loving, Rothley lad who was a talented artist. “After the success of last year’s craft fair, the demand for stalls has been so huge that we’ve had to move to a bigger venue. We are delighted so many talented local crafters and producers are so keen to showcase their talents in aid of Joe’s Trust ( JHMT). “The chasm which was left by Joe’s tragically sudden death can never be filled, but Joe’s legacy is the fabulous work of the Trust created in his name. “Thanks to the amazing work of Joe’s army of helpers and volunteers, we have achieved so much in a short time. But there’s still so much to do, and by coming along to our Christmas craft fair, you too can help us a little further along our journey.” The craft fair is free to attend and everyone is welcome. All proceeds will go to the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust. For more information on the work of the trust, visit www.jhmt.org.uk
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9.30-10.15. Everyone’s welcome to come along and enjoy some stories, songs and craft activities with their children. We are always interested to hear from anyone who would like to help with the sessions. Computer support Thursday 2 and 16 November, 7 and 21 December, 10-12. All welcome. Library up for award Bring your tablet or laptop, or use the Rothley Community Library is a finallibrary’s computers. ist for the Rural Community Council’s Chess club: Thursdays Thursday 2 Leicestershire Best Community Library November, 2 – 5pm, Thursday 9 NovemAward. The awards are announced on ber, 2 – 5pm, Wednesday 15 November, October 26, after this issue goes to press, but just being placed is a huge accolade the Rothley Centre. Come and join us for 2 – 5pm. Play or learn - bring a set if you have one. for everyone involved in the library, and a friendly atmosphere and free refreshfor the village. The news will be on the ments. Over 60s £5.50, others £5. Tick- Lego Club Lots of people have said they’re interwebsite and Facebook. Thanks for makets available at the library, or on the ested in the Lego Club. Now the library ing it happen! door. is collecting Lego (new and old) and Race Night I, Daniel Blake (2016) Friday 17 donations. Would you like to be one of This year’s Race Night raised £420 to November. Daniel is an affable 59-yearthe adult helpers? If you’d like to help help keep the library open, and it was old carpenter in Newcastle, fighting to by sewing Lego bags, let us know. If you certainly good fun. Many thanks to all collect his employment and support the local businesses who sponsored allowance after falling ill. Waiting to sign could help in other ways, get in touch. Volunteers races and gave generous raffle prizes, on at the local job centre, Daniel beWould you like to volunteer at the and to everyone who came. friends Katie, a young single mother who Library Association AGM is also being shoved around by the vagar- library? We're looking for more people to join our team! Friday 3 November at the library, ies of the system, having just been relovolunteers@rothleycommunitylibrary.co. 6.30pm. All members are welcome. cated with her two kids from a London uk Would you like to find out about being a homeless shelter to an affordable counFilm Talk library trustee? Get in touch: cil flat .A mutually beneficial alliance, Wednesday 15 November. 7pm. The volunteers@rothleycommunitylibrary.co. and extended family, is formed. uk Their Finest (2016) Friday 15 Decem- Red Turtle. Tim Neath presents clips and talks about the film. Through the story Live & Local: Your Bard, an audience ber. The year is 1940, Britain. The Britwith Will Shakespeare ish ministry turns to propaganda films to of a man shipwrecked on a tropical island inhabited by turtles, crabs and Friday November 10, 7pm, the Rothboost morale at home. Realizing their birds, The Red Turtle recounts the mileley Centre. Tickets in advance £10, £9 films could use "a woman's touch", the concessions. Bar. Light supper available. ministry hires Catrin Cole (Gemma Arter- stones in the life of a human being. Trustees A fun evening, and the first live show for ton) as a scriptwriter in charge of writAt the AGM on 3 November, two Rothley. Booking is available at the liing the female dialogue. Although her board members will be stepping down brary, and online at artist husband looks down on her job, in accordance with our constitution and https://rothleycommunitylibrary.co.uk/Live Catrin's natural flair quickly gets her are eligible for re-election. In addition -shows.php noticed by charming lead scriptwriter we have three additional vacancies and Buckley (Sam Claflin). Catrin and Buckinvite any members who might be interley set out to make an epic feature film ested to contact us at based on the Battle of Dunkirk starring info@rothleycommunitylibrary.co.uk for pretentious fading movie star Ambrose Hilliard (Bill Nighy). As bombs are drop- further information about the role and responsibilities. If you don't have time ping all around them, Catrin, Buckley yourself, perhaps you know someone and crew work furiously to make a film else who might be interested. that will warm the hearts of the nation. Community Book group Wednesday 1 November, 7.15 8.15pm at the library. All welcome, whether or not you’ve read the book. Vintage by Maxine Linnell. The author will be present. Holly and Marilyn would rather be anywhere but here, on this normal Friday afternoon. Then something very weird happens, and they change places. New library walking group There's only one problem. Holly lives in A small number of people have sug2010. Marilyn lives in 1962. gested the idea of a library walking Film Club Storytime for under 5s group. Alan, who is an experienced walk The Film Club shows films mainly on Tuesday 7 and Friday 21 November, leader, has offered to lead a walk the third Friday of the month at 2pm at Tuesday 5 and Friday 15 December, The arrangements being suggested are the second and fourth Fridays in the month, meeting at the library or someJH PLUMBING ROTHLEY where nearby, at 10am and doing a local walk of about 3 miles or an hour Professional & Experienced Plumber to an hour and a half. If you are interested in joining us, (it (35 years Experience) will be come along when you can), Available for all aspects of plumbing PETROLS • DIESELS please contact Sue on: & plumbing maintenance volunteers@rothleycommunitylibrary.co. MOTORCYCLES uk or call into the library to let us have Drain Works your contact details so that we can get in CROPSTON Guttering touch. If there is enough interest we Radiator Swaps would like to start on Friday GARAGE Washing Machine Installation November10th at 10am. 37 - 39 Station Road Sing Christmas 2017 Reasonable Prices • Any Quotes Given Cropston, Leicester Reliable & Trustworthy The BBC Leicester Big Christmas Sing 0116 2362363 on Monday 18 December, 7-8pm at the Tel James on 0778 962 3328 or 0116 2375491
News from Rothley library
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WI news IN SEPTEMBER Thurcaston & Cropston WI welcomed Wendy Martin, who gave a talk entitled “Kilimanjaro to Kathmandu”. Wendy spoke about her childhood spent in a hilly Northumbrian village and of the necessity to walk everywhere. In her forties Wendy and her husband joined a rambling club and enjoyed walking in the Yorkshire Dales. Their enthusiasm for rambling developed into an interest in climbing. She celebrated her 50th Birthday with a mountaineering course on Mont Blanc, where she has subsequently returned to several times, to improve her mountaineering skills.
They have since travelled to Tanzania and tackled Mount Kilimanjaro, as well as enjoying the beautiful sights and climbing in Kathmandu. Wendy also brought along some mountaineering equipment for us to look at, which highlighted some of the challenges she has had to deal with. This was a descriptive, informative and well-presented talk, which we all thoroughly enjoyed. On Thursday September 21, we celebrated the W.I. Federations Centenary with a skittles match at the Wheatsheaf Inn, Thurcaston. Our opponents were Appleby Magna W.I. Members really enjoyed the occasion, despite losing the match! From Thurcaston & Cropston WI
NOV 2017
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library. Please arrive by 6.45, bring nibbles and drinks if you like. This was a great event last year, so let’s make it even bigger this time! Careers advice Careers advice is still available - contact careers@rothleycommunitylibrary.co.uk to make an appointment.
THE ROTHLEY POST
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Fun & games as cops & robbers AROUND 80 children aged 3-11 attended a holiday club with a cops and robbers theme at Rothley Parish Church over two days this August
THE ROTHLEY POST
NOV 2017
As children arrived they were allocated a group and each named a type of robber such as looters, bank robbers and hijackers. The morning began with a mini craft activity in their groups and a chance to get to know their group leaders and learn each other’s names. The first morning their minicraft activity was to make a wanted poster of themselves used to decorate the room. The second morning their minicraft was to make their own robber’s masks. Following the morning check-in and mini-activity, the groups all gathered together for a song, a drama and a short talk from the Bible. Each drama featured two lazy cops who weren’t very good at their job, in fact all
they really did was drink coffee and eat donuts! On the first day the lazy cops were put in charge of 100 prisoners. Unfortunately they lose one and they don’t see the rush to do anything about it. Over the day, the lost prisoner popped up during the group activities much to the joy and amusement of the children. On the second day not only had they still not found their lost prisoner, but they had also lost all the precious finger print evidence for all the prisoners in the room, and they still didn’t seem in a hurry to sort things out. The dramas linked with the theme of each days talks. The talks were on the lost parables from Luke chapter 15 in the Bible showing how people can be lost to God and then found. The first talk of the holiday club was by Curate Josh Bailey, aka Inspector Josh, who explained the parable of the lost sheep (Luke 15:1-7) who goes astray and loses the shepherd. The children learnt that people go their own way, like the lost sheep, and that get-
3-5), Climbers (ages 5-7) and Explorers (ages 8-11). Finally, watch out for more details on Holiday Club 2018. It will again be in the primary school and dates will be confirmed shortly. From Rothley Parish Church
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ting back to God is impossible on their own, they need to want to be found by Jesus, the shepherd, who searches to find them and bring them home. The second talk of the holiday club was by David Wilson, aka Deputy David, who explained the parable of the lost coin (Luke 15:810). In the parable a woman has ten coins and loses one, and so searches and searches until she finds her precious lost coin. Deputy David taught the children that they are as precious to God as the lost coin was to the woman in the parable and that God sent Jesus to come and find lost people and save them. After the morning talks the groups participated in a range of activities including craft, outdoor games and group bible study. Crafts included making popup, peg leg and pom-pom sheep on the first day and a lost coin story card, a coin pouch or a 3D house money box on the second day. For the games the children had a variety of relay type races to do involving beanbags balanced on heads, weaving in and out
of cones and throwing and catching from different distances and some more challenging group tasks to do, including navigating an assaults course of lasers (plastic barrier tape) to get to the precious jewel at the end. The bible studies were done in age specific groups and they were on each days’ parable. After a retelling of the parable, the children had some discussion questions that aimed to help them explore what it means to be lost to God and for God to want to find them by sending Jesus. Each morning concluded with getting the groups back together for a recap of the morning’s talk and a chance to sing the holiday club song again, which was on the theme of the lost sheep parable. The entire holiday club was a thoroughly enjoyable and successful event, not only for the children who attended but also for those who volunteered to make it happen. The conclusion of the holiday club came on Sunday August 20 at Rothley Church where there was a holiday club service at 10:30am. The drama on the Sunday showed the lost prisoner realising she had gone the wrong way and that she needed to come back to say sorry. To her surprise she finds out that the Chief Inspector has forgiven her and that there will be a party in honour of her return. Rev Rob Gladstone, aka Inspector Rob, explained the third lost parable of Luke 15, the parable of the lost son. He taught that people often think of God as unloving and unforgiving but the parable of the lost son shows that God is a loving father who longs for lost children to realise they are lost and have gone the wrong way and to come home to him. Whether you joined in with Holiday Club 2017 or not, the staff team at Rothley Parish Church welcome anyone to come along on a Sunday and join us at any of our services. You can find more details at www.rothleychurch. org.uk Families are particularly welcome at our 10:30am family service each Sunday which has Sunday school groups for ages 3-11. The groups have recently been relaunched as Scramblers (ages
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Monday Club news
Pic: a hedge layed Stafford style
needed to be done again! He was duly engaged to improve matters, and spent two weeks completing the job. Mr Mathew passed a few photographs around, showing some of the well-known people he had met during his career. Quorn was a favourite hunting centre for a long time. When the railways came they got as far as Quorn Hall, but the owner at the time did not want the line to be continued across his land! Hunting parties would stay at Quorn Hall for several days, with perhaps 200 horses being stabled there at a time. The servants would take local produce such as Melton Mowbray pork pies and cheeses out to the hunting parties for their lunch, and some of these delicious products would be taken back to London, where their fame spread. Hunting parties ride across country, and it was essential that the hedges were laid so that they could not only jump into a field, but also jump out again on the other side. If there were any old oak trees in the hedge, they would be left in peace; if there were none, you got one old penny for planting a tree. This small amount built up and was very welcome. He was expected to complete laying one chain of hedge per day, which was 22 yards, the length of a cricket pitch. During his childhood he worked on the family farm, and had to get up very early to fetch the cows in for milking, before he could eat breakfast and go off
had to hold up a stick of tar to touch the belt, to make it keep contact with the rollers, which was very unpleasant because the tar ran down his arm. Dust from the chaff filled the air and made it hard to breathe. He was also responsible for raking the chaff away so that it didn’t clog the machine and make it stop, which would have been disastrous. When payday came he waited last in line whilst everyone else was paid, but the boss only gave him sixpence and told him he could take a few eggs for his mother …! All this after cycling several miles to work each day. However his mum protested and got it raised to a pound. This was not the only time when he had to insist on proper payment for his hard work. Whilst some workers were keen to take advantage of new technology such as using chainsaws instead of their heavy axes, others preferred doing things in the old familiar way, because they didn’t like “mechanical aids”, like a sack barrow on which you could wind a heavy bag up, to make it easier to lift onto your shoulders. Mr Mathew showed us some tools such as a gambrel, like a yoke but used to hang up deer or pigs to be dressed; and an auctioneer’s probe, like a very long crochet hook, with which they checked the quality of hay offered for sale. For a while he worked near Kilby Bridge, taking care of a section of the canal towpath. He learnt how to lay a fire so that it would always burn, and fall inwards, in any weather. Again he waited a long time to be paid, so his family endured a very frugal Christmas, but discovered that money went further during the January sales. He also worked on the Relief Milk Service, helping out farmers who were ill or injured. By now he owned a motorbike, which made it easier to get around. On one farm, the cows he had collected from the lower field, according to the brief note left for him, followed him unwillingly and refused to go into the milking parlour. It was not just that he was a stranger. He had actually tak-
demolished the fence as they arrived. His first job next day was to mend it. When he asked about the milking she said, somebody would deal with it, and they went off to market together in the next town. She drove very fast and steered with her knees, whilst doing her hair and make-up in the mirror! After a busy day at the market he was asleep that night when he heard a knock at his door. She came into the room and explained to him that she wanted his help with certain “needs” that she had. At the age of 18 he was willing to learn, and he didn’t go home for three weeks! Our meetings are held on the second Monday of each month, starting at 2.15pm. On November 13 we are looking forward to an afternoon of Songs, Magic, Poems and Jokes, with musical instruments. In December the club members will again enjoy a festive Christmas lunch at the Birstall Golf Club, with entertainment. Visitors and new members most welcome to future meetings (please see local posters for details). From Mrs Maja Tompkins, Monday Club Cropston & Thurcaston
Care home links with school nity even before Mountview has opened. The children were extremely interested in what life is like in a care home, and were really surprised at some of the activities our residents will take part in, such as pet therapy, chair exercises and pop-up restaurants. I think the cinema room will be a hit with the children when they visit!” LNT Care Developments have donated Nicola Mather, Communities Manager paints to enable the children to take part for LNT Care Developments who are in a poster competition about being safe currently in the final stages of construct- on site. The winning entry will be seen ing Mountview Care Home on Loughbor- at all LNT Care Developments sites in the ough Road, visited Christ Church & St future. Mountview, which will be operatPeter’s CE Primary ed by Ideal School in MountCarehomes, sorrel. has also enlistNicola, who ed the chilensures that all dren’s help to LNT Care Developbury a time ment sites are capsule at the engaged with the home, and to Considerate Conname the three structors scheme, floors of the gave a presentabuilding. tion to over 250 Deputy children, revealing Head at Christ the exciting jobs Church & St which are available for women, and men, Peter’s CE Primary School, Fran Ward, in construction. She was also keen to said, “We are extremely grateful to LNT highlight the many dangers which can be Care Developments and Ideal Carehomes found on construction sites. for visiting our school. The presentaLNT Care Developments have an estab- tions were a great opportunity for the lished relationship with the school, havpupils to see how rewarding a career in ing already donated plants and construction could be, and also an ingardening equipment. This relationship spiring insight into care home life. There will be further cultivated by Mountview has been a real buzz in the school ever Care Home once it opens at the end of since the competitions have been anthe year. Home Manager, Sue Shaw, nounced and we can’t wait to take part!” also visited the school with Nicola to Mountview is a care home on Loughgive the children an insight into life in a borough Road in Rothley and will procare home and to help them understand vide a home for 66 residents when it certain characteristics of people living opens at the end of this year. The home with dementia. is holding a public open day on Sunday Sue said: “It is great to begin buildNovember 19 where local people can ing a relationship with the local commu- have a first look around the brand new facilities and meet the caring staff team.
STAFF FROM the site of a brand new residential and dementia care home in Rothley have visited a local primary school to highlight to the children the value of women in construction.
NOV 2017
OUR HARVEST Festival Bring and Buy was well attended in September, and we listened attentively as Samantha Houghton, the speaker, shared some of her life experiences with us, which may give hope to others going through difficult times, and showed that it is possible to improve matters for a better future. in October, Mr Clive Mathew spoke to us about his “Life and times in Hedge Laying and Farming” He explained that he had worked all his life on the land, learning amongst other skills how to lay hedges to keep the stock in, and to stop soil erosion. During the course of his apprenticeship he began entering competitions and winning prizes. He and some other young workers travelled to competitions in an old car, and would torment any of their group who failed to do well. He became National Champion five times! In fact he said he had three more competitions coming up shortly. Eventually he met Prince Charles, who came over to speak to him at an event, and he was asked to make a mallet for the Prince. Later he was invited to look at some of the Prince’s own handiwork on an estate, but had to tell him that his hedge was all crooked and
en the cows of a neighbouring farmer instead! One farmer he helped out had a very dirty kitchen, full of assorted animals. When they had been turfed out, the farmto school. He was given the unwanted bull calves to rear for market, and some- er got out some food for them both, but the young Clive decided to refuse. The times won rosettes with them. When he only clean area on the table was where was about 14 his parents went on holithe farmer, as he learnt later, regularly day, leaving him and his sister to manage the farm on their own and complete dumped some fatty cat food and left the cats to lick it up. The farmer said he lots of extra jobs like demolishing some had got marold pigsties, but ried, years they had to save all before, but it the roof tiles for only lasted a sale later because couple of days. his father had He finished counted them! his entertainHe showed us a ing talk by photograph of a mentioning a binder, a machine certain manwhich made the nish female sheaves of corn. farmer he was Being told that once supposed Pic: harvesting with a reaper & binder thrashing the corn to help with was well paid, with a wage of around milking. She met him in a pub, and £5-£6 a week, he got himself a job. He had to grease the machine, which ran all they both had a few drinks. When they day without stopping; and at intervals he went out to her car it was dark, and she
THE ROTHLEY POST
14
Leader steps down THE LEADER of Charnwood Borough Council will be stepping down in September.
Teacher of life saving skills A CHARITY volunteer from Mountsorrel who has devoted four years to training people in vital lifesaving skills has now taught more than 1,000 people.
Retired cardiac nurse Alan HarrisonWhite is a vital member of the JHMT team, putting his skills to use for local charity the Joe Humphries Memorial Cllr David Slater has been at the helm Trust. The JHMT was set up was set up in for seven years but says now the time is memory of Rothley teenager Joe Humright to handover to someone new. phries, who collapsed and tragically died He will formally resign as leader at from SADS – sudden arrhythmic death the full council meeting on November 6 and members will vote on a replacement. syndrome – in October 2012, while he was out jogging. Since that time, the charity’s dedicated fundraisers, volunteers and medical leads have worked tirelessly to increase the number of public-access defibrillators available across the city and county. They have also worked to increase awareness of sudden heart deaths and – crucially – to ensure as many people as possible are trained in CPR and how to use a defibrillator. Alan, 60, from Mountsorrel, said: “Because we do the training in groups, I can’t pinpoint exactly who the 1,000th person I trained was, but I know it will be someone from the 12/74 Scouts in Mere Road, Leicester, where I did some training recently. “I started doing the CPR training for the charity on the 3 September 2013, when I trained members of the local Pic: Cllr David Slater community in Rothley. Since then I’ve delivered training at sports clubs, comCllr Slater said: “I have to consider what is in the best interests of the Coun- munity venues and schools at all levels including proudly representing Joe’s cil and I feel after seven years that the Trust as part of the Leicestershire time is right to step down as leader. Heartwize schools programme, a unique “I am incredibly proud of what the Council has achieved while I have been leading it and I would like to thank my fellow members, staff and partners for their support. “Leading the council has been a challenge, but an enjoyable experience and I wish my successor all the best for the future. “I will continue to remain a councillor at Charnwood, serving the residents in the Quorn and Mountsorrel Castle ward and the Council in whatever capacity the new leader asks me to.” Cllr Slater (69) joined Charnwood Borough Council in 2001 and became leader in 2010 having previously served on cabinet as lead member for housing and planning.
Pic: Alan Harrison-White conducting a training session collaboration between key agencies to 50–70%.” create a new generation of lifesavers Alan added: “I chose to go into cardiacross the region.” ac nursing as it was a field of nursing The JHMT training sessions – which that interested me and was very much are all free – can be arranged through hands-on regarding patient care. I the charity’s website jhmt.org.uk, and worked as a cardiac nurse for 25 years – Alan says news is often spread about the 15 on the coronary care unit at Leicester sessions by word-of-mouth, too. General Hospital, and then at the LRI Chair of the JHMT Steve Humphries A&E department as a cardiac specialist said: “This is a fantastic achievement nurse. and we’re so grateful to Alan for his “I really enjoy teaching these skills to dedication and determination in getting people, as one day they may help them the message out there – that sudden to save a life.” cardiac death isn’t inevitable, it’s preventTo find out more about the JHMT, able. including how to book a training session “Currently less than 10% of people for your sports club or community survive an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest group, visit www.jhmt.org.uk in the UK, but with effective CPR and defibrillation within 3-5 minutes of collapse, survival rates can be as high as
THE ROTHLEY POST
NOV 2017
Bookshop Age UK has opened a charity book shop in Loughborough. Located at 9 Biggin Street, the new shop offers a large selection of fiction, non-fiction and academic books at low prices. Proceeds from the shop will support the work of Age UK Leicester Shire and Rutland.
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Long struggle for the vote SEPTEMBER’S TALK to the Thurcaston and Cropston Local History Society was from Jess Jenkins entitled ‘Burning Passions: the local struggle for women’s suffrage’.
A DEMENTIA day care centre in Birstall will stay open after NHS bosses decided to fund it for the next two years.
Pic: Alice Hawkins being escorted to prison
dealers daughter and Sunday school teacher and Mrs Agnes Fielding Johnson, who was manager of Wyggeston Girls School and also campaigned for a maternity hospital in the city. As protests became more militant, women from Leicester joined protest marches and demonstrations. The Joint Women’s Franchise Demonstration (1907) included, among others, Mrs Margaret Ramsey McDonald wife of the MP. Alice Hawkins who worked in the boot and shoe industry and her husband Alfred were arrested by the police on many occasions and Alice imprisoned seven times. Among other men who supported women in their fight was Henry Nevinson a founder member of the Men’s League for Women’s Suffrage. Successive governments failed to take the claim for women’s suffrage seriously, but in1914 the start of the First
World War put an end to the militant campaigns. In 1918 The Representation of the People Act enfranchised all men and women over the age of 30. Finally in 1928, The Representation of the People (Equal Franchise) Act, gave the vote to all women over 21 on equal terms with men. If you would like to read more, Jess Jenkins has written a book entitled ‘The Burning Question: the struggle for women’s suffrage in Leicestershire.’ IBSN 978-0-85022-487-0. Printed by Leicestershire County Council. The next meeting will take place in the Harrison Room, All Saints’ Church, Thurcaston on November 21. We will have a brief AGM followed by Felicity Austin talking about The History of the Seaside Holiday. Visitors are welcome. http://www.thurcastoncropstonhistory .org.uk
NHW news & crime report owed several thousands of pounds in a Rothley : Crime update Aug & Sep PPI claim. This was followed by requests 2017 that they purchase vouchers which There have been two reported thefts would need to be handed to a courier in August. The first occurred on the who would attend the address with their August 12 in the Loughborough Road cheque. Fortunately they realised this area. Entry was gained to a storage was a scam and no payments area and a caravan was were made. stolen. Please be aware that On August 15 in the scams Badgers Bank area a take many bay tree was stolen forms but from the front of a if it property. seems Overnight between too good July 31 and August 1 to be true in the Templar Road it probably wing mirrors were brois! ken on two parked vehicles. Good news In September a burglary was I am pleased to say reported in the kiln Garth area, the patio door was smashed and items of property that the Community Library in Quorn have kindwere removed. ly agreed that beat There have been two reports of damage to vehicles; one was in the Mountsor- surgeries can be held at the location. Many thanks rel Lane area and the other in the Cross to the Library Committee. Green area. In both of these reports We’d like to meet you damage was caused to the vehicle paint Please check the work Leicestershire policing There was also a damage reported in website for dates and the Wood Gate area where plant pots venues for our forth comhad been damaged ing Beat surgeries: WyevCrime prevention advice ale Garden Ctr, Nov 15, There has been a report that a local 3pm resident was contacted and they were
Should you wish to speak with any member of the beat team listed below then please call 101 in the first instance or via email. PC2041 Spiby, Dedicated Neighbourhood Officer, PCSO 6524 Chris Kendall, PCSO6030 Craig Miller, PS2992 Rod Smart– Team Leader
The centre, based in the Village Hall, is run by Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland and looks after 19 people with dementia across two days, with several on a waiting list. In April 2016 the NHS West Leicestershire Clinical Commissioning Group said it was withdrawing £70,000 of funding and the centre looked set to close. Campaigners, Carers and Age UK urged the CCG to reconsider and in August, the CCG decided to award a two year £84,000 contract to Age UK Leicester Shire and Rutland, which means the service can continue. “We are delighted by the news which will take a great deal of pressure off family members who have caring responsibilities” said tony Donovan, Chair of Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland. “The centre acts as a lifeline providing them with much needed respite, and quality care and support to those attending the day centre” he added. Ann Marshall, Chair of Birstall Parish Council said: “I am really pleased at this news, dementia is a growing problem and places a great burden on carers. The day centre gives them respite and is the kind of service that should be expanded, not shut down.” Birstall’s MP Edward Argar said: “I am really pleased that the CCG has listened to our campaign and the local community, and welcome their decision to give Age UK this two year contract for these vital dementia day care services in Birstall. As Post readers will know, I have visited the centre and seen for myself how important this service is to people with dementia and those who care for them, and I pay tribute to Tony Donovan of Age UK and his team in Birstall for the fantastic work they do. This decision is great news and means the service can continue helping and supporting local people.”
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
NOV 2017
Her aim was to tell stories of less well-known women (and men) who took part in the fight for votes for women. There were many other women and organizations fighting for the vote, not just the well-known such as the Pankhursts, Emily Davison and the Women’s Social and Political Union. Firstly Jess reminded us that until the Reform Act of 1832 very few people had the right to vote at all. In 1866 when the first petition from women was sent to Parliament five Leicestershire women signed it, and there were1302 petitions between then and 1905, but it was not until 1928 women finally won equality. Many had been campaigning peacefully for 40 years before Christabel Pankhurst realized that only protests and arrest would raise awareness in the minds of politicians. In 1884 the new Reform Bill gave all male householders the vote, but still ignored the claims of women. The Leicester and Leicestershire Women’s Suffrage Society was founded in 1887 following a successful meeting at which Millicent Fawcett spoke in Leicester (she would later come to the very forefront of the women’s suffrage movement). Various well-to-do local ladies were involved in the early movement including Edith Gittins, a corn-
Centre saved
THE ROTHLEY POST
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Hot meals delivered A DELIVERY service of hot meals to homes in Rothley, Thurcaston & Cropston is now available seven days a week. Kinds of Queniborough have been delivering affordable frozen meals to the community in Leicestershire since 2011 and are a local independent family business. Spokeswoman Cheryl Kind said: “We are extremely proud of the quality of our meals and feel that our customer service is second to none. We
are proud to announce that we are now also delivering hot meals on wheels which is a daily service seven days a week. Breakfast and teatime packs are also available. Our friendly staff are happy to pick up the post, serve the meal on plate or provide a drink, and we offer a free well being check and can contact relatives if any concerns are raised. No long term contract is required, the service can be ordered when needed. Cheryl said: “This could be a few days a week, every day or to help in the early days of coming home from hospital – we are completely flexible to suite your lifestyle.”
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Club celebrates fortieth year THE INNER Wheel Club of The Soar Valley celebrated its 40th anniversary with a lunch at Quorn Grange Hotel on Sunday October 8. After lunch members and guests were entertained by guest speaker former England and Leicester Tiger’s Rugby captain Neil Back MBE. Neil regaled his audience with tales from behind the scenes of his rugby tours and also his appearance as a contestant on BBC’s “Celebrity MasterChef”. The club, which draws its membership from villages along the Soar Valley, meets at Quorn Grange on the fourth Monday of the month for a meal followed by a speaker. During the year they hold charitable events and over the years have supported LOROS, Rainbows and many other local as well as international charities. Among the International charities with Rotary they have raised money for are Shelter Boxes and End Polio. President Doreen Lilley’s main charity this year is Dementia UK helping provide support for dementia sufferers and their families in this area. If you would like to join them at one of their meetings or to learn more about Inner Wheel, contact Secretary Maureen Meredith on 0116 2303895.
Pic: President Doreen Lilley (left) with Neil Back MBE and Secretary Maureen Meredith
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GCR decides to close Greenacres café THE GREAT Central Railway is closing the Greenacres cafe this November.
THE ROTHLEY POST
NOV 2017
The cafe is close to its southern
terminus at Leicester North station. The decision has been taken after a review of its sustainability following a number of years of trading. In a statement the GCR say: “Despite
the determined efforts of staff, while the business units have been filled, the cafe has struggled to turn a profit. This is of course a concern for any business and for the Railway particularly, which is sustained substantially by charitable donations and the efforts of unpaid volunteers.” Director and General Manager of the Great Central Railway Michael Gough said: “This is a difficult decision and not one we have taken lightly. While the Greenacres cafe has proved to be popular with some visitors it has not attracted anywhere near enough custom to prove commercially viable. Following consultation with staff and Leicester City Council it will close on November 1.” The closure will result in several staff being made redundant. The Greenacres site is adjacent to the Leicester North terminus of the Great Central Railway. This is where Leicester City Council, the Great Central Railway and the National Railway Museum are collaborating to build a new railway
museum. The project has been earmarked for £10m of National Lottery funding. Michael said: “The exciting museum project continues apace and we are currently planning for the doors to open in 2021. In the long term, as befits a major new visitor attraction for Leicester, we expect to be able to provide a new catering facility at the museum. Subject to further planning that may well include reopening Greenacres cafe.” Visitors to the Great Central Railway will still be able to purchase tickets and light refreshments at Leicester North station itself. The other units on the Greenacres site are not affected by the closure of the cafe and will continue to be home to local traders and businesses.
The next issue of
THE ROTHLEY POST will be published on Jan 10. The copy deadline is Dec 15.
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Lion’s golf event A CHARITY golf event has raised £6500. Organised by Rothley and Soar Valley Lions and Leicester Charnwood Lions, the event was held at Beedles Lake golf club. Some 70 golfers took part in the tournament and 90 people attended the evening prize presentation and dinner. The Lions Clubs wish to thank all the entrants and sponsors for their support of this event. The nominated charities for the tournament were the Air Ambulance Service and Syston and District Volunteer Centre. Both Lions Clubs are members of Lions Clubs International with a worldwide membership or 1.2million members operat-
ing in 180 countries in the world. “Events like these give everyone an opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause while making new friends and enjoying helping to serve others – come and join the Lions” said spokesman Neil Robertson. Tel: 07736629756 Email: ngdr@talk21.com Pics: Mo Dakri, Nish Bathia, Zubeir Ismail and Arvind Mistry; Lion President Steve Hickling giving out refreshments at Halfway House
Clubs charity event course a big thank you to all who attended.” If anyone is interested in joining this women’s organisation please contact either Doreen Lilley on 0116 2303364 or Maureen Meredith on 0116 2303895. Proceeds from the event will help fund Leicestershire’s first Dementia UK Admiral Nurse. To find out more about Admiral Nurses visit the website www.dementiauk.org Pic: (l-r) Gwyn Jones, co-ordinator for Dementia UK and Doreen Lilley
School’s collection for harvest festival CHILDREN AT Rothley Church of England Primary Academy recently celebrated Harvest Festival. Children across all year groups took part in a variety of services, both at Rothley Parish Church and in school. A school spokeswoman said: “As always we were astounded by the huge amount of harvest donations and would like to express our thanks to all parents for their generosity. All donations were passed to the Rothley Food Bank at the Baptist church.”
New bridge unites GCR track A £2.5million bridge has been installed in Loughborough that will reunite two sections of railway track. The GCR’s Bridge the Gap project will create an 18 mile mainline railway running from Birstall to Ruddington. It is expected to increase tourism by attracting an additional 60,000 visitors a
year. The GCR’s CEO Richard Patching said: “The new bridge will one day carry Great Central Railway heritage trains over the tracks of the Midland Main Line below. As one of the most ambitious civil engineering projects undertaken by a heritage railway, ‘Bridging the Gap’ will reinstate approximately 500 metres of missing embankment, track and bridges – all of which were removed
after the Great Central Railway was closed as part of a major rationalisation of the railway network by the Government of the day. When the whole project is complete it will create an eighteen mile heritage railway stretching across the East Midlands which will create jobs and drive regeneration through tourism.”
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NOV 2017
Doreen Lilley from the Rothley Inner Wheel Club of the Soar Valley hosted the event at her home on Sheepcote. She said: “Despite the worries of the previous weeks of unsettled weather the day dawned bright and clear and everyone who attended was able to enjoy the day. “The success of the event was helped by kind donations from Waitrose, Mountsorrel Branch, Rothley Fisheries and Od’thorpes Café in Quorn and of
THE ROTHLEY POST
AN OPEN garden charity event in Rothley raised £384 for Dementia UK.
Cumbrian charity trek AN ANNUAL charity trek undertaken by holistic wellbeing company Wellbeing4Life and 18 of their clients has netted local charity Alex’s Wish over £6,500. The trek took in the Ullswater Way, plus some additional peaks and challenges. Elain Crewe of Wellbeing4Life said: “This is the second year that we have trekked for Alex’s Wish. Last year we did the Yorkshire Three Peaks and this year the Ullswater Way with some additions. Basically we are an ambitious lot and we wanted a few more peaks and challenges thrown in for good measure!” The 30 mile trek took the team of 18 just over 16 hours to complete and saw them tackle over 1,400m of ascents – higher than Ben Nevis! Elain added: “We worked with the same superb guide as last year – Ed Docwra of Mountain Munchkins. Ed asked us what we wanted and then adapted the Ullswater Way to suit us and give us the challenge that we were all up for! We had an amazing day and to have raised almost double what we did last year is a fabulous feeling. Plans are already being made for 2018!” Zoe Edwards of Alex’s Wish took part in the event. She said: “It was a great day. We walked through forests, around lakes, saw waterfalls and tackled a few hills too! The scenery was beautiful and the company was great. We are so grateful to Elain, Wellbeing4Life and everyone who took part and we can’t wait to see what the trek is going to be for next year.”
Volunteer?
THE ROTHLEY POST
NOV 2017
DO YOU need something to do in your spare time? Have you ever thought of becoming a volunteer? Are you interested in our preserved heritage? You might like to think about becoming a volunteer at the GCR’s Rothley Station. A spokesman for the GCR said: “We are looking for volunteers to serve in our platform Tea Room on Saturdays and Sundays. You can choose when you are available, but usually one turn per month is the norm. “We look forward to hearing from you!” If you are interested, either visit the station and have a word with the duty Station Master on a Saturday or Sunday, or contact the Senior Station Master by email: crd.dean@gmail.com
Life saving message in book A CHILDREN’S story featuring a friendly dog who helps to save a life launched this year’s SADS Awareness Week. The story of Ruffle the Life Saver is the latest in the adventures of Ruffle the Rail Dog, a series of books written and illustrated by local author Rachel Greaves. Rachel has written and illustrated the story in association with local charity the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust (JHMT), donated copies of the book to every
primary school in the city and county to mark SADS Awareness Week. SADS Awareness Week runs from 2-8 October and is the JHMT’s annual week of activity to promote its important work campaigning for better understanding and recognition of SADS – sudden arrhythmic death syndrome – and other heart conditions which can strike very suddenly, particularly in seemingly fit and healthy young people between 12 – 35 years old. This year, as part of SADS Awareness Week, the JHMT has been showing how even very young children can help to save a life in the event of a cardiac emergency – either by raising the alarm or, in the case of older primary school children, learning CPR skills. Lauren Humphries from the JHMT said: “Ruffle’s story is ideal for helping us to spread the message that no matter what age, everyone can play their part to save in case of a
Pic: Rachel Greaves with Ruffle the Rail Dog
cardiac emergency. “In the story, Ruffle raises the alarm – just as younger children can do – when he sees someone collapse in suspected cardiac arrest. The book then shows how people use their CPR and defibrillator skills to revive the victim, so that he is breathing by the time the ambulance arrives. “Stories like this one normalise defibrillator and CPR training, which is exactly what we want for the next generation.” Rachel said: “I feel very humbled and pleased to think that my creation of Ruffle could be used to potentially help save lives”. The JHMT will organise for copies of Ruffle the Life Saver to be sent to all city and county primary schools to help raise awareness of the importance of CPR and defibrillator training.
Adventures in the wild west HIGHCLIFFE AMATEUR Theatrical Society’s next production has been written by two members of HATS, Phillip Walton and Elaine Hunt. ‘Paint the Town Red’ is an original script with a Wild West theme that will take you back to the days of the old westerns. “The cast has been having the best time ever rehearsing for this amazing original pantomime” said HATS spokeswoman Sue Withers. “Forget about the traditional pantomimes and let your imagination transport you back to the ‘Wild West’. “This is a pantomime full of adventure, action and fun, with lots of different characters and some original songs too. “So what characters are you likely to see? No fairy godmothers I am afraid, no big bad wolf. You will be astounded at
how clever the script writers have been in introducing characters to this play. Yes, there are some cowboys and saloon girls. But then, not forgetting this is a pantomime, there has to be some reference to Christmas doesn’t there. So look out for the unexpected characters, see how many different ones you can spot. Never in your life would you expect to see the people you will meet in this production. So now I have set the scene, all you have to do is buy your tickers, sit back and enjoy the show. Don’t delay, book your tickets now.” Dates: Thurs Nov 23 and Fri Nov 24 at 7.15pm, Sat Nov 25 at 2.30pm & 6.45pm Doors open 30 mins before each performance Venue: Highcliffe Primary School, Birstall
LE4 3DL Tickets £6, £5 concession, £20 family ticket Discounts for group bookings, price on enquiry Box Office: 0116 2216019, 07963432020 and 0116 2259122 Email: hatsbirstall1@hotmail.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/hatsamdram/
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Local art on show
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. 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.
HUNDREDS OF visitors enjoyed an exhibition of paintings staged by the Soar Valley Artists at the Rothley Centre in October. Dozens of paintings were on show at the Society’s fifteenth annual exhibition.
AMLI DESIGN Architectural Consultancy. Plans drawn and submitted. Extensions, conversions, new build. David Ives B.Sc.(Hons) FBEng MCIOB 0116 2674395 / 07974807111 www.amlidesign.co.uk
Planning P/17/2061/2: Rothley Lodge, Loughborough Rd, Rothley – erection of buildings to form employment units (B1c, B2 and B8 Use) with associated parking, servicing and landscaping P/17/1752/2: 43 Swithland Lane, Rothley – proposed single storey extension t o rear of dwelling following removal of existing conservatory P/17/1970/2: Three Oaks, 30 The Ridgeway, Rothley – reduction to 6 sycamore trees, 3 poplar trees and remove 2 sycamore trees P/17/1931/2: 104 Swithland Lane, Rothley – crown cleaning of 3 ash trees situated between property and road. P/17/1928/2: 145 Swithland Lane, Rothley – removal of copper beech in rear garden P/17/1881/2: 1 Cossington Lane, Rothley – erection of 2 storey extensions to side and rear and single storey extension to rear of dwelling P/17/1819/2: 52 Templar Way, Rothley – erection of orangery at rear of dwelling P/17/1787/2: 48 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley – proposed single storey extension to front of dwelling; change of use of garage and games room to part garage, part living accommodation including insertion of dormer and roof lights to enable insertion of 2 bedrooms in roof. P/17/1824/2: 2 the Crescent, Rothley – crown reduction to 1 prunus (T4), remove & shortening of lower overhanging branches of 1 ash (T5), 1 silver birch (T7) and 1 copper beech (T9), works to 1 poplar (T6), and felling of 1 poplar (T8) (Tree Preservation Order) P/17/1761/2: 23 Fowke Street, Rothley – demolition of former Conservative Club P/17/1719/2: 79 Swithland Lane, Rothley – erection of 2 storey extension to side and rear and porch canopy to front of dwelling P/17/2042/2: 2 Rectory Lane, Thurcaston – erection of detached single storey dwelling P/17/1790/2: 1 Lychgate Close, Cropston – felling of 3 eucalyptus trees
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NOV 2017
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