Rothley Post (144) Sep/Oct 2020

THE ROTHLEY POST YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Delivered to Rothley, Thurcaston & Cropston

SEP/OCT 2020

VJ Day ceremony ROTHLEY MARKED the 75th anniversary of VJ Day with a ceremony at the War Memorial on Cross Green.

VJ day on August 15, 1945, marked the end of World War II, with soldiers, often referred to as the forgotten army, returning from the Far East.

In an occasion organised by the Rothley branch of the Royal British Legion, Baptist minister Simon Payne gave a brief oration before wreaths were laid at the base of the War Memorial.

Pics: (below) VJ Day in Rothley (l-r) Alan Alexander (President Rothley branch of the Royal British Legion), Minister Simon Payne and Margaret Hendry (chairman of Rothley Royal British Legion) standing in front of the War Memorial; (right) Alan Alexander lays a wreath

DAVE HUTCHINGS GENERAL BUILDING & HOME REPAIRS

Brickwork • Patios Re-pointing Tiling • Plaster Patching • Fencing etc No job too small Friendly Reliable Service Free Quotations • Fully Insured

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

www.birstallpost.co.uk

No. 144

Impact on roads “not severe” THE COUNTY Council’s highways department has given its views on the plans for an extended Rothley School and 80 new dwellings south of the school.

It says the impact of the development on highways safety “would not be unacceptable and when considered cumulatively with other developments, the impact on the road network would not be severe.”

Charnwood Borough Council, as the local planning authority, will consider the highways authority advice when deciding whether to recommend that the planning application be granted or refused.

The planning application has resulted in dozens of objections from local people.

Planning permission is being sought for: A new detached school building to the rear of the existing Rothley Church of England Academy primary school (accommodating six new classrooms and a new school hall) Additional staff parking (an additional 13 spaces including one accessible space) Extension to drop off car park (an additional 40 spaces) with extended access from WarrenWay. 80 dwellings with public open space, landscaping and drainage infrastructure.

The overall development site is located immediately south of the existing primary school and the recently constructed Brookfields Farm housing development.

The school elements of the proposals will expand the existing capacity of the school from 420 pupils to 600 pupils, an increase of 180. The current numbers of 28 and 22 full and part-time staff will increase by nine, split by full and part-time.

Martin Tibbles PAINTING & DECORATING SERVICES Excellent references available Quality Workmanship Guaranteed 33 Years Experience

Interior & Exterior 0116 291 0489 07855 412 945 Free Estimates

Rothley’s new hairdressing salon Waste ROTHLEY’S NEW hairdressing salon on Woodgate is the realisation of a long-held dream for Marc Grant and his partner Bethany Sole.

sites open ALL 14 OF Leicestershire County Council’s recycling and household waste sites are now open.

Salon 45, says Marc, has received a warm welcome from local businesses and the community.

“Our ethos is simple. We will create the look that you desire in a relaxed, luxury environment with exceptional service from start to finish," he said.

The hairdressing couple have worked together for eight years and are joined at Salon 45 by stylists Alison Towse and Becky Pate.

Pics: Salon owners Marc Grant and Bethany Sole; the garden; salon interior

Marc said: “It’s been our dream to open a luxury salon like no other in Charnwood. Here at Salon 45, it’s not just a visit to the hairdressers, it’s an experience you’ll remember.”

Positive reviews on Facebook include this one left by Victoria Rouse: “The staff are so attentive and the salon itself is incredible, I’ve never experienced anything like it. They really have thought of everything! If the beautifully designed salon wasn’t enough, they have a paved garden area where the staff will happily bring you a drink while you wait, it really tops off the experience. Couldn’t recommend it highly enough.”

Small group tuition for your child CONFUSED BY so many tuition options?

Choose a tuition programme that can

help get your child’s education back on track now and excel once they return to school in September.

Why choose First Class Learning? Our programmes are designed in the UK and aligned to the National Curriculum. We create a personalised plan for each child based on their unique abilities. We used printed worksheets and handbooks, not more screen time. All work is planned and scheduled, making it easy for the student and the parent. We know helping to get your child’s education back on track is both a worry and a big decision. First Class Learning has been established for over 10 years and has helped thousands of students across the UK. Book a FREE Skills Assessment today, call us on 0779 335 3435.

The next issue of

THE ROTHLEY POST will be published on Nov 7.

The copy deadline is Oct 23.

• Sales, Repairs & Upgrades • Wired & Wireless Networking • Branded & Custom Built PCs • Laptops, printers, peripherals & accessories • Server Installation & Support • On-site Maintenance & Remote Support • Original & Compatible Cartridges/Toners • Buy Dell products through our store

Covering Leicestershire

0116 2672583

Misted up double glazing ?

Replace with new clear sealed units

Mob: 0796 7 191975

www.ntlcomputers.co.uk 3 The Meadway, Birstall LE4 4NG

Faulty locks & handles replaced

Call Colin Wright for a free quote LOCAL BUSINESS 07765635505 • 01162209573

Architectural plans

drawn & submitted for planning permission & building regulations approval Tel: 0116 4105060 / 07974807111 E: info@amlidesign.co.uk W: www.amlidesign.co.uk

David Ives Bsc(Hons) MCIOB FCABE C.Build E. Chartered & Accredited

SEP 2020

ADVERTISEMENT

Pic: Alan Birchenall opens the salon

Nine of the sites will be open five days a week – the same number of days as before the coronavirus pandemic disrupted the service.

Mountsorrel and Whetstone have increased to opening seven days (from five days a week before the pandemic) and the remaining sites will be open for 2-3 days each week during the ongoing pandemic.

The county council has been monitoring site usage, and the new opening times reflect demand across the sites.

Mountsorrel and Whetstone are the county’s busiest, and since reopening have had over 20,000 visitors to each site. Both sites have had an average of 250-300 visitors each day.

Visitors to sites need to book a slot in order to visit so that social distancing can be observed, and restrictions on some waste types are still in place at some sites. Sites will continue to be open between 9am and 5pm.

The council is also reminding any residents that if they can’t make their time slot, or it is no longer needed, they should log in to their council account and cancel the appointment so that it can be used by someone else.

For more information about individual sites opening times, to book an appointment and for further details on recycling and waste in Leicestershire, visit www.leicestershire.gov.uk/waste or call 0116 305 0001.

THE ROTHLEY POST

2

3

Remembering sub-postmaster Malcolm Ward MALCOLM WARD, sub-postmaster of Rothley between 1966 and 1985, passed away in June in his 87th year.

Malcolm was born in Loughborough and spent his early years there before moving to Oadby, where he met his future wife Joyce and their daughter Lynn was born.

In 1966, the family moved to 16 Woodgate where Malcolm and Joyce ran the Post Office, hiring the local St John’s Ambulance Hall as a sorting office.

A couple of years later, a larger shop with an old wooden bungalow at the

rear became available at 9 Woodgate. The wooden bungalow was demolished and a purposebuilt sorting office was built for the postmen and women - Dick Neale and Alice Ward (no relation) are two that are remembered by Lynn. The Post Office moved and

Pic: Sub-Postmaster Malcolm Ward

now included a sales area where toys and games, stationery, gifts, decorative candles and books were sold.

While at the Post Office, Malcolm also volunteered as a Special Constable in the Police Force (unpaid) which he served for 10 years attaining the rank of Sergeant.

In 1977 Malcolm joined the committee to arrange Mystery photo (left) Amongst Malcolm’s possessions, this picture was found, it was taken on the steps of the St John Ambulance Brigade’s Hall and is believed to be for the retirement of postman Mr Bryan, pictured front. It would have been taken in the mid-1960s.

If you have any information, please contact lynn@thurmaston.com

MOT VEHICLE TESTING STATION

TESTING

PETROLS • DIESELS MOTORCYCLES CROPSTON GARAGE 37 - 39 Station Road Cropston, Leicester 0116 2362363

CORTS HARDWARE 3 Cross Green, Rothley. Tel: 0116 2375347 Est: 1993 YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT HARDWARE AND DIY SHOP THAT HAS EVERYTHING!

1 - 4 - AL L

THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2020

Domestic Appliance Spares & Repairs All Leading Makes Serviced 20 Years Experience Washers • Dryers • Dishwashers Fridges • Cookers

GAS & ELECTRIC David Preston - 0775 262 3885

www.1-4-all.co.uk

All types of Calor Gas in stock

Give us a try, you’ll be amazed!

Whatever you want, we’ve got the products with the right advice, and essentially, at the right price.

Don’t be fooled by the big stores anymore

the celebrations for the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, serving as treasurer and he was also one of the founding members of the Soar Valley Rotary Club.

In around 1985 Malcolm and Joyce sold the Post Office and Malcolm ran a wholesale china, glass, fancy goods and hardware business in Sileby until the mid-1990s. He then became steward at Rothley Conservative Club on Fowke Street, next door to where Joyce and Malcolm now lived. However, the call of the Post Office beckoned again and Malcolm joined the Co-op, it had offices in many of its shops around Leicestershire, and he also taught new postmasters the trade.

After Malcolm retired he and Joyce moved to Thurmaston to be nearer to Lynn and her family. Sadly, Joyce passed away in 2005 aged 69 years. Shortly after his 80th birthday, Malcolm suffered a slight stroke but still lived independently until 2019 when, following a decline in his health, he moved to Cedar Mews care home in Birstall where he spent the last 18 months of his life.

Malcolm sadly passed away following the effects of contracting Covid-19. He leaves his daughter Lynn, son-in-law Mick, grandson Tom and great-grandson Archie and was a much-loved brother-inlaw, uncle, cousin and friend.

Good neighbours scheme THE ROTHLEY Good Neighbours Scheme continues to provide support in a variety of ways for those locally who need some assistance, particularly people who need prescriptions delivering.

Currently, the scheme has assisted over 100 local clients with 540 tasks (including 340 prescription deliveries).

A reminder: the Good Neighbours Scheme aims to help to those who may wish for some assistance which could include: the elderly, disabled, single parents or those in temporary need due to illness, injury or bereavement.

The number to call is 0756 1596 873.

Doctors fears over patient backlog

Trouble with your figures?

Want someone to walk you through a self assessment?

Let me help get your books in shape… & keep them trim

Linda Kimberley-Brooks (ACMA) Final accounts • Self assessment Taxation • Bookkeeping • VAT Payroll • Management accounts www.twyf-accounts.co.uk Email: Linda@twyf.co.uk

Companies & individuals call now on

0116 23 66 345 A friendly service tailored to your needs

A third of doctors saying they thought it would take more than a year to clear waiting lists for elective procedures.

26% of doctors said that in the first two weeks of August non-Covid demand had increased to pre-pandemic levels, with 17% saying that demand is now even higher than it was before.

The survey results come after NHS figures on Thursday, August 13 showed record waits in a number of areas, including the wait between being referred by a GP to first treatment, and the number of people waiting longer than a year for treatment rising to the highest in over a decade.

Dr Chaand Nagpaul, BMA council chair, said: “The most recent waiting time data speaks for itself, with patients waiting unacceptably long times for treatment. But the Government and NHS England also need to be honest with both healthcare staff and patients about the backlog we’re facing. They must produce a clear strategy of how we can manage this increased demand, working with clinicians to prioritise those patients most in need of care, while at the same time being able to continue treating people who are still suffering with Covid19. And crucially, doctors do not want patients avoiding the health service and risk getting much sicker as a result.”

Café welcomes you THE MET Café at the Sidings, near the Birstall GCR station, has now reopened.

Operations Manager Phumuzile Ndlovu said: “Come down and visit us, and try our new delicious menu including pancakes, full English, sandwiches, paninis and many more.

We offer a socially distanced space according to the government guidelines, easy parking, outdoor seating area, and kids are welcome to play on the grass whilst you enjoy your coffee. We also have a large collection of books from autobiography’s to fiction for you to enjoy, as well as books for kids to read.”

Pic: Pharmacist Sudhir Shah opens a gift at his anniversary party

Popular pharmacist praised at party STAFF AND customers threw a party for Rothley pharmacist Sudhir Shah in July, to celebrate his 30 years in the village.

Chairman of Rothley Parish Council Percy Hartshorn was just one of those attending to present Mr Shah with a gift as a token of their appreciation for his work running Rothley pharmacy.

Pharmacy assistant Ann Smith said: “Mr Shah is patient and kind and always has time for everybody. He has an amazing memory for names, medications and addresses and goes above and beyond to help – we are very lucky to have him.”

Mr Shah said: “With the support of my staff and everyone in the village, it’s been a wonderful 30 years.”

Adult learning CLASSES IN yoga, cookery, pottery, British sign language, confidence building and many more are now available from Leicestershire County Council’s adult learning service, Go Learn.

Hundreds of parttime day, evening and weekend courses are now open for enrolment as GoLearn continues it’s committed to helping learners to achieve their goals, despite the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions.

A mixture of classroom-based and online courses are available with all learners receiving expert help and support, with tutors on hand to provide all the guidance and expertise needed.

For the first time this year, GoLearn is offering the new Essential Digital Skills Qualification,

which is aimed at complete IT novices to help them in the digital world.

There are also free courses available for people who are seeking work and looking to gain basic skills, including planning first steps towards employment, increasing confidence, help with job search, CV writing and interview skills, as well as English and maths GCSE. Benefit recipients or on a low income can get up to a 70% discount on course fees or may be entitled to attend for free.

The Leicestershire Adult Learning Service can also be contacted on 0800 988 0308 (lines open Monday – Friday 8am-7pm) to find out more about the courses, fees or the option to pay in instalments. www.leicestershire.gov.uk /golearn

SEP 2020

THE MAJORITY of doctors think ambitions to get the NHS back to nearnormal service by autumn are unlikely to be realised, according to a major survey by the British Medical Association, highlighting the sheer scale of the challenge of tackling an ever-growing backlog of care after the first peak of Covid-19.

NHS England recently set targets to resume normal levels of activity over the next few months, but when asked by the BMA whether they thought these would be met, 70% of more than 3,000 doctors who responded said this was either highly (40%) or fairly (30%) unlikely.

THE ROTHLEY POST

4

Local firm’s 15 years in business THE ROTHLEY based family firm Kettell Windows is celebrating 15 years in business, and coming through lockdown.

Noticeboard all details printed free Regrettably, there will be no meetings of the Charnwood Group of the

Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust

Father and son team John Kettell Snr and John Jnr started the business in 2005 – having been working for fabricators of windows and doors they thought they could do a better job of themselves.

The business is a real family affair and is now run by two husband and wife teams: John Snr and Pat, and John Jnr and Lisa plus Winnie the resident dog.

Unfortunately, celebrations for their 15th anniversary didn’t go quite to plan as Covid-19 forced them to close the business down on March 23 for six weeks.

for the foreseeable future.

Information about when talks and activities will be resuming will be posted on the Trust's website, along with details of any virtual talks and presentations. https://www.lrwt.org.uk/

Film Presentations

Pic: John Kettell Snr and John Jnr

Lisa said: “This was particularly hard for John Snr and Pat who both work in the business every day.

They soon adapted to the challenge, keeping in touch with their customers as well as offering virtual appointments and an online quote builder.

“John Jnr also did his first Facebook live, sharing the products they had in the showroom. All of this while living together, working together and raising the children! We’ve enjoyed our time at home with the family but are glad to be back in the office, especially as Winnie the dog missed being able to greet the customers. The family love what we do and we are excited to find out what the next 15 years will bring.”

Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council “Downton Abbey” We know this film is very popular.

In fact, we have sold many tickets and know that we would have had a capacity audience in March, before we all realised how easy it is to develop the coronavirus.

If we were to show this film in September or October, we would need willing volunteers and a willing audience. However, with social distancing under the current restrictions, there would be insufficient room to present the film Continued on page 6

The Great Return!

Gavin Taylor Hair was closed for just over 14 weeks with zero income.

For any small business, this is tough to bounce back from.

However, at Gavin Taylor Hair there is only one way of thinking and that’s positively. During lockdown Gavin was busy planning for expansion and recruiting to grow the salon’s amazing team.

Our award-winning team now includes Sarah, who brings 10 years experience, amazing energy and positivity to the salon.

Soon to become junior stylist Olivia has grown from strength to strength and is now taking bookings. A huge testament to her hard work and dedication, her passion shines through.

“The only way to survive through this crisis was to come out the other side as a much stronger business.”

Gavin Taylor Cut & Blow-dry Prices from £25

THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2020

Book online at www.gavintaylorhair.uk/book-online or call our friendly team

No ordinary salon… ♦ AWARD WINNING SALON ♦ CLIENT CAR PARK ON SITE ♦

www.gavintaylorhair.uk ♦ Tel: 0116 2302071 10 Fowke Street, Rothley LE7 7PJ (Located next to Victoria Mills)

Sarah

Olivia

5

safely. We may have to wait until the New Year to show a film

Big Birstall Yard Sale Saturday September 12 10-4pm Supporting Luke Rames who is fundraising for a trip to Ecuador to help communities and families.

Suggested donation per stall £3 Birstall Methodist Church pit stop cafe open 10-4pm To register for a stall contact Big Birstall Yards Sale page or contact Sharon Bingham 07841448511 sharonbingham@aol.com

Stabbing: man charged A 20-YEAR-OLD man has been charged with wounding following an incident in Rothley in April.

Curtis Price, of Bridgeland Road, Loughborough, has been charged with wounding/inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent.

The charge relates to a report of a man being stabbed in an alleyway off Woodfield Drive on April 25.

Price has been bailed to appear at Leicester Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, September 23.

Virtual consultations the new normal TELEPHONE AND video consultations with GPs have become the norm during the Covid-19 pandemic and are expected to continue and be

developed further when things return to normal.

Christopher Lyons, a member of the Alpine House patient participation group in Mountsorrel, writes:

Parish Council notes A FULL meeting of Rothley Parish Council was held on August 17 (there was no meeting in July).

Borough Councillor Leon HadjiNikolaou reported that planning officers had given him a written confirmation that there has been 25% over development in Rothley. He said he had the impression that officers are not very positive about recommending the Rothley School development for approval.

The council have been asked for three suggestions to be used as street names on the William Davies development. They put forward: Draycott, Hyman and Shuttlewood. All have connections with local farming.

Rothley School is proposing a ‘walking bus’ to get children to school. Children are dropped off at a location near the school then all walk together under supervision to school, reducing congestion. It was agreed to support the scheme in principle but not to give permission for the Rothley Centre car park to be used as a drop-off point as it was not considered safe enough.

It was reported that the council’s income from lettings had fallen by approximately £5000 a month due to Covid-19. This will result in an increase in next year’s precept.

The council is looking for a project manager for the refurbishment of the Rothley Centre. This will include a new

boiler, kitchen, insulation, windows and lighting. It is anticipated that a period of closure will be necessary when the work is being done.

It was agreed that the Parish Council will adopt the open spaces associated with the Persimmon Homes development once the developer fulfils its obligation to build a bridge over Rothley Brook.

Comment was made that since Charnwood is unlikely to commence legal proceedings to enforce the construction of the bridge, it will never be provided.

It was agreed not to continue with the provision of free dog waste bags from the council office.

A FULL meeting of Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council was held on June 18 via Zoom.

The Parish Council looked at the possibility of opening the Memorial Hall to hirers in compliance with government Covid-19 regulations.

The council has received information regarding proposed parking restrictions around Bradgate Park from Newtown Linford parish council. The council agreed that it would like to assess the situation after the consultation has been completed between Newtown Linford Parish Council and the County Council.

There was no meeting in July. The August minutes were unavailable at the time of going to press.

Roy Morris Plumbing and Heating Installation, Upgrades & Servicing Of Gas Cookers, Boilers and Fires

Servicing of Boilers £35 General plumbing, shower & bathroom installs. Tiling & electrical work also undertaken

Landlords – don’t forget your Safety Certificates: from £45 Call now for a FREE no obligation quote

0116 2841076 / 07860 551820

ALL TYPES OF DOMESTIC & INDUSTRIAL WORK

Extra Points Alarms Rewiring Security Lighting Electrical Testing Part P Registered

Control Electrics Ltd Tel: 0116 2682910 FREE ESTIMATES

Nobody can have failed to notice the changes that have swept through our country these last few weeks and months as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic that has been affecting countries and communities across the world. The NHS, both locally and in the big hospitals, has had to rapidly adapt and change to be ready for the expected surge in cases. This has meant that GP surgeries and hospitals have had to change the way they work and how they assess and treat their patients.

You will be aware that many hospital appointments have been either cancelled or undertaken over the phone.

Similarly, local GPs and their staff are having to adapt very quickly to new ways of working.

Surgeries now have 'telephone triage' in place where the most appropriate form of patient contact is decided by the practice staff after talking to the patient. This is resulting in a call from the GP or one of the clinical staff who can assess, diagnose and prescribe treatment either over the phone or via a video call.

Only where absolutely necessary are patients invited into the surgery. This has protected patients and staff alike from the new virus and helped slow the spread of Covid-19 within the community.

GPs and practice staff tell me that there is no desire to return to how things were but want to be sure that any new system meets the needs of all patients. Sir Simon Stevens, the Chief Executive of the NHS in England, wrote to all GP practices, NHS Trusts and Primary Care Networks at the end of April and stated that a return to how things were before the lockdown is not how the NHS sees its services being delivered in the future.

This could affect all services after the Covid-19 restrictions are finally lifted.

So, how will this affect patients of local GP surgeries? The rapid changes in the use of technology (telephone triage, video and telephone consultations, etc.) that we have seen recently will continue and be developed further. In the future, all patients will continue to be assessed through a telephone triage service with the aim that only those that need to be physically seen and examined will attend the surgery whilst those that can be safely assessed, diagnosed and treated through other means will be. The NHS also want the system to work for patients who do not have access to technology and are assessing how the service can be developed for these patients, ensuring safety for all concerned.

For many patients, this will save journeys to the practice and for those waiting for a hospital appointment, it may mean a trip into Leicester is no longer required.

Some GP consultations will need to remain face to face and blood tests, immunisations and clinical procedures like minor surgery can only be done in the surgery building.

GPs and Primary Care Networks are working now to develop these new ways of working further to make them more suited to staff and patients alike.

Practices and Practice Participation Groups (PPGs) will be working together to ensure that patients know and understand how to use the new systems as and when they come about. If you would like to contact your local practice PPG their contact details will be available from your practice.

The author is a member of the Alpine House PPG in Mountsorrel and works with GPs in the south of the county.

SEP 2020

Continued from page 5

THE ROTHLEY POST

6

News from Sustainable Rothley 10,000 parcels delivered SUSTAINABLE ROTHLEY continues to meet online, and while it’s not been possible to meet up, people are still doing what they can.

The next Zoom meeting will be on Sunday, September 27, from 7-8pm: to join in, email sustainablerothley@gm ail.com or phone 07764941574.

People have been working on many fronts: The areas of the village planted with wildflowers have been looking lovely, thanks to the Parish Council and local volunteers.

Alison is starting to make bags for Corts and the Food Bank – if anyone would like to make some, let us know; fabric and simple instructions provided.

Dropped wipes, masks and gloves have appeared around the village. Please take them home with you! There may be a litter pick soon.

Members’ gardens have been a huge

Woodcock

FARM SHOP

Home Grown Potatoes: White Marfona Red Mozart Fresh Fruit & Veg Local Honey & Preserves incl Marmalade & Chutney

Horse & Pony Feeds, Goat Feeds, Poultry Feeds, Rabbit Food, Hay Straw & Shavings Manure, Woodchip Mulch, Topsoil we can deliver bulk loads of these items, call or visit for further details

DIY Liveries FIREWOOD: bulk loads delivered Good Quality Dry Logs, Hard & Soft Wood, Coal &Smokeless Fuel, Kindling

THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2020

And lots more!

LOUGHBOROUGH RD, ROTHLEY Tel (0116) 230 2215 James 07802 915559 Fred 0797 7014606

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

www.woodcockfarm.co.uk

source of interest, and projects to add bug areas, wildflowers and bee treats have been going well.

There may be a seed swap later in the year, for those who save their own seed.

Rothley Neighbourhood Plan The Rothley Neighbourhood Plan needs responses before October 2. www.charnwood.gov.uk/pag es/rothley_neighbourhood_ plan. Have your say.

Fix your Bike Helen and Graham have had a makeover on their bikes locally, with the government scheme supporting that. The first batch of vouchers have been given out now, but there may be more to come. https://fixyourbikevoucherscheme.est.org. uk Home Insulation From September, the government will

be giving vouchers towards the cost of improving energy efficiency in owned and rented homes. For information, go to https://www.which.co.uk/news/2020/08/g reen-homes-grant-details-revealed-couldyou-get-up-to-5000-home-insulationvouchers. Top-up loft insulation is included. You will have to choose from a list of registered tradespeople in your area to do the work.

Climate Coalition Sustainable Rothley has signed up to the Climate Coalition, a group of over 140 organisations — including the National Trust, Women's Institute, Oxfam, and RSPB — and 22 million voices strong. Individuals can sign their declaration at https://www.theclimatecoalition.org/decla ration.

To join Sustainable Rothley in their meetings, or find out more, contact sustainablerothley@gmail.com.

THE MAYOR of Charnwood has visited the Charnwood Community Action hub to mark the delivery of the 10,000th food parcel.

The Charnwood Community Action campaign is a partnership with the borough council, John Storer Charnwood, The Bridge East Midlands and other voluntary organisations to help support and guide the local community during the coronavirus pandemic.

Since launching in March, Charnwood Community Action has delivered a total of 10,000 food parcels and is currently delivering to around 600 households each week. The team have also been providing a befriending service to residents and signposting people to a range of services.

The Mayor of Charnwood, Cllr David Snartt said: “I was delighted to be invited to the community hub in Loughborough to see the incredible work of the Charnwood Community Action team first-hand and to also mark the delivery of the 10,000th food parcel.

“These past few months have been difficult for our communities and I know everyone involved with Charnwood Community Action has worked incredibly hard to help those who need a bit of additional support during this time. They should be proud of what they’ve achieved.

“It’s been wonderful to see volunteers, local community groups and businesses pulling together to offer support to their neighbourhoods and the hub.

“I would like to say thank you to everyone who has played their part in helping our communities.”

Charnwood Community Action is also being supported by community groups, volunteers, town and parish councils and a number of local businesses.

For more information about Charnwood Community Action or to let the Council know about someone who does not have any support networks please visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/cca

7

Reopening Entering and using your library might feel strange for some months to come but we want to assure you that we do want you to visit us, everyone is very welcome. We must ensure that both volunteers and library users feel confident when entering the building. There are new social distancing measures in place and following current health advice, adult visitors are required to wear

Kristin Scott Thomas and Sharon Horgan certainly suit their roles as uptight CO’s wife Kate and more earthy RSM’s wives. As pillars of their local Armed Forces community, they are relied upon to keep up morale on the base while serving spouses are in Afghanistan.

Alongside dealing with their demons, a choir is bumpily birthed under their leadership that brings together the wives and girlfriends into a closer-knit group (although knitting itself quickly proved too difficult).

Friday, November 20: Knives Out

a face mask.

Currently, the hours of opening have been reduced from 17 hours per week to eight hours.

The openings are as follows: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday afternoons 2.30 – 4.30pm; Saturday mornings 10am - noon The use of public computers has currently ceased but it is under review and there may be some limited use soon.

The hours will also be reviewed by mid-September.

The library has been given a complete top to bottom clean by a band of volunteers, following all books being removed from the shelves when the new carpet was laid.

In addition, 70 new books arrived at the beginning of August which are currently displayed on a separate shelf.

Film Club Is Returning!

Film Club Programme at The Rothley Centre All films start at 2pm To celebrate the reopening Rothley Community Library is offering people attending the first film of our new season FREE OF CHARGE. There are a couple of changes to the normal routine. ~ Following Government guidelines people at cinemas are required to wear a face covering. ~ For the present we are not providing refresh-

A modern whodunit, the film follows a master detective investigating the patriarch's death after a family gathering gone awry. The film features an ensemble cast, including Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, Ana de Armas, Jamie Lee Curtis, Michael Shannon, Don Johnson, Toni Collette, Lakeith Stanfield, Katherine Langford, Jaeden Martell, and Christopher Plummer.

Book Boxes These have now been filled with children’s books located at various sites around the village: Mountsorrel Lane Park, Town Green Street Playing Fields, Saxon Drive Play Area, Bunney’s Field, Warren Way Play Area, Fowke Street Playing Field. The box on the seat at the end of Woodgate is filled with adult books. People using the book boxes need to consider their own personal safety when handling them.

Car Park While completing the final 25 metres of resurfacing on the driveway to the Tennis Club car park, Persimmon Homes offered to completely resurface the library car park and repaint the lines. The library would like to thank Persimmon for this offer to our community.

Walking Group

Walks are continuing with social distancing in groups up to six. These take place every Friday at 9.20am. Most will start at the library but not all so it is best to check beforehand with the leader, Alan by email or phone: morti.aj@btopenworld.com mob 07896346491.

Leisure centre opens THE SOAR Valley Leisure Centre in Mountsorrel reopened on August 8.

It is operated by Fusion Lifestyle, a registered charity, on behalf of the council. Fusion operates all three of the council’s leisure centres.

The Council has had a contract with Fusion for nine years and the leisure centres over the last few years have generated a management fee paid to the Council in excess of £200,000 a year.

The pandemic has caused a significant drop in income as centres have been closed for four months and customer numbers are expected to be lower when they reopen because of market conditions. Social distancing also means fewer customers will be allowed in the building at one time under Covid-19 secure guidance.

The council says it will need to financially support Fusion to run the centres as they are no longer able to generate as much income.

The Cabinet report recommends to members that the council pays a subsidy of £367,000 to keep the pools and gyms at all three centres open until April 2021. The situation will have to be reviewed again before then.

Other options, including not reopening the pools or not reopening all the leisure centres, have also been considered.

Cllr Leigh Harper-Davies, lead member for leisure centres, said: “This is a very difficult situation as we have moved from a position where the leisure centres used to generate income for the council which would fund other services, to one where we have lost that income and need to pay a significant amount of money to keep the services operating.

“It is no-one’s fault except that of the pandemic.

“We have looked at a range of options but the one being recommended to Cabinet is to commit to that financial support and reopen all three leisure centres. It is now up to Cabinet to decide.”

Customers of Soar Valley and South Charnwood leisure centres will be contacted directly by Fusion about the steps being taken to ensure people’s safety.

Measures include managing capacity by asking customers to pre-book classes and gym sessions, spacing equipment at least two metres apart with social distancing markers and increasing the amount of cleaning.

For more information about the reopening of Soar Valley Leisure Centre and South Charnwood Leisure Centre visit the Fusion websites.

SEP 2020

News from Rothley library

ments at the interval, though people are welcome to bring their own. ~ There will be the normal measures taken to ensure good social distancing.

Friday, October 16: Military Wives

THE ROTHLEY POST

8

News from Rothley Parish Council Rothley Neighbourhood Plan Charnwood Borough Council has started a consultation process on the Rothley Neighbourhood Plan. To access the plan please go to this website charnwood.gov.uk/pages/rothley_neig hbourhood_plan Comments can be made up until Friday, October 2.

Rothley Centre Improvements Following the resubmission of a revised business plan, Charnwood Borough Council officials are now fully engaged with the parish council, allowing access to a substantial amount of s106 funds which has been earmarked for improvement to community buildings/facilities.

We are seeking the appointment of a project management firm to ensure further upgrades to the Rothley Centre, which would include improvements in the kitchen, heating system, windows, insulation, internal reconfiguration and access.

Lettings Some groups have returned to use the centre including; dance classes (Saturdays), Slimming World (Thursdays) and Film Club (Fridays, monthly). The caretaker has made all necessary arrangements for social distancing and

Ian Roe LANDSCAPES & DRIVEWAYS 07847 003554 0116 2303222

THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2020

www.ianroe.co.uk

Greengate Medical Centre will be offering free flu vaccinations to those eligible from the 21st September with evening and weekend clinics also available: the first Saturday clinic is on the 26th September.

Public Health England state that the flu vaccine is more important than ever this year and all patients aged over 65 are eligible as well as all those who suffer from longterm conditions or who are pregnant. You can be assured that having your flu vaccination given by a qualified clinician within the surgery is the safest way to be vaccinated. Greengate Medical Centre has exceptional infection control measures in place with all clinicians wearing full personal protective equipment within our surgery.

Government guidelines suggest that those without a chronic condition aged between 50 and 64 years may also be eligible. This age group will be updated in due course to book when we have further guidance as to when this will be. We are looking at ways to safely re-introduce online appointment booking, specifically for these flu clinics. Please keep checking your GP online access, our website or follow Greengate Medical Centre on Facebook for updates. You can call the surgery on 0116 2677901 with any questions or to book your free flu jab appointment now. www.greengatemedicalcentre.co.uk

there are hand sanitisers now available on entry. Please contact the office should you wish to book the Centre (0116 2374544) Village Hall This facility is available for hire and has a completely new kitchen installed.

the track will be 100m and the small straights in the middle, 30m.

Track to Tennis/Bowls Clubs Following lengthy lobbying by the parish council, the final 25 metres of the driveway is to be finished. This will mean that the track will have been completely resurfaced. In addition, the surface of the Tennis Club car park has been upgraded. Persimmon Homes also committed funds to resurface the library car park - a generous offer to the Community Library.

Wildflowers

Bikes There is now a bike station in the car park of the Rothley Centre. This has been installed with the agreement of Charnwood Borough Council who provided the funds.

Seating Benches across the village have been cleaned and re-varnished and, in some cases, have had substantial repairs.

Office The Parish Office has been re-arranged and a ‘sneeze screen’ installed in the area where members of the public speak to office staff. This protects both.

Children’s running track A small oval track line has been planned to be marked out on the recently levelled middle area of Mountsorrel Lane playing field. The distance around

b) You have occupied any land or other premises as owner or tenant in the parish/community during the 12 months before the day of your nomination and the day of the election. c) Your main or only place of work during the 12 months prior to the day of your nomination and the day of election has been in the parish/community area.

You do not have to have paid employment to qualify, as long as your main or only place of work is in the parish/community area. For example, Councillors whose main or only job is being a councillor would be able to use this qualification, if their council office is within the parish/community. d) You have lived in the parish/community area or within three miles of it during 12 months before the day of your nomination and the day of the election.

Birstall library re-opens As reported in the last edition, several plots of land have been successfully converted into wildflower areas.The area in the ‘Donkey Field’ has now come on well since July.

Dog ‘poo’ bags The parish office has been closed for nearly six months during which time people have had time to make alternative arrangements by buying at local retail outlets or over the internet. The council has therefore decided to cease the provision of dog poo bags which was an unusual free service in the first instance.

Parish Councillor vacancy A vacancy has arisen following the resignation of Cllr Clare Cole. We do thank Clare for her contribution and wish her and her partner our best wishes raising their young family.

Eligibility information for parish councillors is below and we would welcome applications, which can be made by contacting the Parish Clerk (0116 2374544) be at least 18 years old be a British citizen or eligible Commonwealth citizen meet at least one of the following four qualifications: a) Your name must appear on the register of local government electors for the parish/community at the time of your nomination and throughout your term of office should you be elected.

BIRSTALL LIBRARY has reopened for browsing, borrowing and returning books, but you must book a time slot first.

The county’s main libraries are operating with an online booking system, allowing members to book a slot to visit their preferred library.

There are a limited number of slots available each day to ensure social distancing is observed within the buildings.

To book your slot, visit www.leicestershire.gov.uk/book-alibrary-visit. Residents who are unable to book a slot online can call 0116 305 2695 to book their timed appointment.

Library users may visit in groups of up to three to browse, borrow and return items. Hand sanitisers are available at all sites and face coverings will be mandatory.

Library staff are on hand to welcome customers back to their local library and assist them to use the services safely.

For the time being, toilets remain closed to customers and the use of computers will not be available. The county council hopes the service will return in September, once necessary health and safety measures are in place.

The click and collect service continues to operate alongside browsing. Over 900 click and collect orders have been placed in the first three weeks since launching the service.

Visit www.leicestershire.gov.uk/click-andcollect.

9

Cropston garden opens for RSPCA Special thanks must go to Ruth and Sue (and Lottie, the dog) from the RSPCA, who sheltered from the wind under the gazebo and cheerfully answered animal questions as well as selling veg plants, flowering plants, shrubs, dog toys, shopping bags etc.

Recent strong winds and rain had ruined my lovely display of white roses and tangled up the raspberries and currants. However in the front garden my exotic New Zealand Bottle Brush, with its flame-red blooms, burst into flower the day before and welcomed people to the event and was quite a talking point.

Visitors arrived, used the hand gel and, keeping to social distancing advice, followed a

Pic: a wind spinner

G E GAMBLE & SONS INDEPENDENT FAMILY FUNERAL DIRECTORS —–––––––––– ESTABLISHED 1830 —–––––––––

one-way system around the flower borders, greenhouse and fruit and vegetable plots.

Star attractions were the view across the fields and Rothley Brook to Thurcaston, the plant pot people and the huge Green Man made from netting on the rockery, the enormous cucumber in the greenhouse, the wind spinner, the willow weave insects flying above your head as they dangled from the Eucalyptus tree, the giant lollipop bay trees with Hot Lips Salvia blooming underneath.

A very special thank you to two 1st Thurcaston Brownies, Holly and Alethea who had made and donated friendship bracelets and macrame items to sell.

Christine Miranda, Barn Owl, deserves thanks too for help putting up posters on all the surrounding village notice boards and dog walking footpaths. Several people had read the posters and appeared before the event with donations of spare plants. Thank You. By the end of Saturday, Ruth and Sue had sold so many plants that I had to send a message to the Brownies, and Thurcaston and Cropston Open Gardeners, appealing for spare plants and carrier bags for the next day.

Sunday morning and with great relief I saw that the gazebo was still standing. Chris and I had tied the gazebo’s guy ropes to two trees, a drainpipe and a secure trellis before the strong winds could blow it away. A £5 note had been pushed through the letterbox.

T & C Open Gardeners and Brownies appeared with bags and plants. Thank you so very much to all who helped.

Sunday whizzed by selling well and chatting to visitors but fewer people today as we were competing with a televised football match with no one in the stands. Leicester City 0 : 1 Chelsea.

At the end of the weekend, thank you lovely people, we raised £511.46. for the RSPCA. Advertise in

THE ROTHLEY POST

PROPRIETOR MR RICK ASTILL, RESIDENT OF BIRSTALL

www.gamblefunerals.co.uk MEMBERS OF SAIF AND NAFD

LET OUR FAMILY LOOK AFTER YOUR FAMILY FOR FREE ADVICE AND GUIDANCE

PROFESSIONAL

GARDEN MAINTENANCE

1) Decide what size you want 2) Send us a sketch of your ad 3) We design, publish This Siz & send e you the Wednes bill days

TIDYING • LAWNS CUT • HEDGES TRIMMED SUPPLY & PLANT ORNAMENTAL TREES

+VAT

A FAMILY OWNED FUNERAL DIRECTORS OFFERING A PERSONAL & PROFESSIONAL SERVICE 24 HOURS A DAY FUNERALS ARRANGED IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME OR AT OUR UNIQUE 17TH CENTURY THATCHED COTTAGE

Mark’s

47 x 57mm £20 • 47 x 116mm £36 98 x 57mm £36 • 98 x 116mm £60

S£E2X0Y

57 HIGH STREET, SYSTON LEICESTER LE7 1GQ TEL: 0116 2607500

Pic: the plant pot people and the Green Man

CALL 0116 4422067 for an advertising rate card, or view online at www.birstallpost.co.uk The prices above exclude VAT

During this crisis I am OPEN for business & would welcome your call GENERAL PRUNING INCLUDING: APPLE & PEAR TREES

35 YEARS EXPERIENCE

TEL: 07903 614561 or 0116 2692805

HANNAH CLARKE FOR ALMSHOUSES The almshouses has a vacancy of a one bedroom flat, well situated with an open outlook over the golf course, and is maintained to a high standard by the Trustees.

The property is of a sheltered nature and is suitable for a lady of 60 years plus. It is situated in Park Road, Birstall.

Apply to Andrew Atkinson 07973 309 987 or 0116 2675446

The spare perennial plants are to be sold at Ruth and Sue’s house in Glenfield (see below). The leftover vegetable plants have found a home at the forest preschool in Shepshed.

In past years my Open Garden has included a stall for the Glenfield WI Country Market and there were a few disappointed visitors who had hoped to buy cakes and jams as well as plants.

But here is how the market has recently installed a way of keeping in touch with customers old and new: Are you missing homemade cakes, savouries and jams?

Glenfield WI Country Market has temporarily closed because of the Corona Virus pandemic. However, the cakes, savouries, jams, marmalades and chutneys are available through our new Order and Collect service. Collection is from 44 Triumph Rd, Glenfield LE3 8FS, fortnightly on Fridays 10.30 -11.30 am.

Plants to support the RSPCA Leicestershire Branch based at Woodside Animal Centre are available to buy at the collection address.

We hope to expand our “Order and Collect” service to include cards and crafts in the future.

Contact glenfieldmarket@gmail.com for more details and an order form.

From Snowy Owl, Irene Marriott

SEP 2020

I WOULD like to thank everybody who came along to my two-day open garden and plant stall on Latimer Road in Cropston at the end of June.

THE ROTHLEY POST

10

Bradgate Girls keeping busy in lockdown Sixth form

11

GIRLGUIDING ACTIVITIES in Mountsorrel and Rothley have been going on all term despite the lockdown

SYSTON’S BRADGATE Sixth Form, which serves post 16 students from the local areas of Syston, Thurmaston and surrounding villages, has recently had a change of leadership.

Tim Marston is the new Headteacher.

He said: “In a year where there is so much contention and angst around the results process, it is hugely important to celebrate the achievements of all of our students. Over 83% of our students have been automatically selected for their chosen destination and will go on to flourish and thrive. We have students that have received a complete set of top marks and a great many who have achieved in line with expectation.”

He added: “It also has to be said that because of the statistical process in place this year, we also have young people who have been assigned lower grades than they were expecting. This is a huge challenge and we will work with students on to ensure that they move on successfully to their next stage.”

Katie Johnson, Head of Bradgate Sixth Form, said: “The class of 2020 have faced an unprecedented challenge, through no fault of their own and we need to recognise their resilience, positivity and the hugely positive impact they have made while with us at Bradgate Sixth Form.”

In April, girls aged 5 - 14 and their leaders took part in Girlguiding Leicestershire’s LEAPover challenge by cooking, having their own campfires and then sleeping somewhere that wasn’t their own bed - this could have been a den or a tent. Girlguiding also held a Festival in a Day for guiding members and their families in the UK ending with a campfire.

Mountsorrel and Quorn Rainbows and Rothley Brownies have been holding their Girlguiding meetings online during the lockdown.

The Rainbows, aged 5 – 7, have been completing their Feel Good Skills Builder challenges as well as six girls, a Young Leader and Leader in Training saying their Promise virtually.

Other activities include keeping fit, making rocket launchers and making duck food which girls couldn’t wait to take to the reservoir and river.

Leaders from Rothley Brownies have held a quiz with their girls aged 7 – 10, been singing, played a memory game and did some drawing on top of their heads and held a competition to make a human or animal head out of a plastic milk container.

Girls and leaders can’t wait to get back to face to face meetings but until then more Zoom meetings are planned.

Pic: a collage of some of the items girls have made

Club’s youth coach ROTHLEY PARK Golf Club has a new Junior Section coordinator, the club’s assistant professional, Harry Schiltz.

August tea party

THE ROTHLEY POST

SEP 2020

MEMBERS OF the Inner Wheel Club of The Soar Valley joined together in August for a socially distanced tea party.

We had heard that Quorn Grange, our regular meeting place, was able to organise these meetings and so, masks on faces, we entered our much loved and missed venue.

On entering the hotel we were greeted by a receptionist who proceeded to take our temperatures and we were then taken to one of the very large reception rooms where we were placed at socially distanced tables by waiters wearing

masks and plastic gloves. We had hoped to eat in the lovely garden area, but the weather was not kind.

After taking our seats we were served with a delicious cream tea and in between mouthfuls of scones we managed to catch up with news that we hadn’t managed during our Zoom calls; it is so much easier to talk face to face, albeit with masks!

We decided at the end of our meeting that we had all felt very safe and had enjoyed the experience so much that we would try to meet again soon.

Pic: members socially distanced at their tables.

From the IW Club of The Soar Valley

Having started golf at the age of eight he has a personal understanding of the skills and socials benefits golf can offer youngsters.

Harry (pictured below) is taking full advantage of Golf Access, a programme approved by Golf England for young golfers. He said: “Alongside lessons that I give on a one-to-one basis, juniors of any age and ability can now gain experience before going on to play a full round of golf on their own.

We organise two nine-hole events and two one hour coaching sessions per month to really bring them on and keep their interest and ensure they have fun with each other and enjoy their golf. The overall goal is to achieve a handicap and start to enjoy a

lifetime of social and competitive golf.

We have found that this national programme really does keep their interest rather than just hitting balls on a practice ground.”

He added: “The clear benefits for juniors are meeting new groups of likeminded people and creating friendships that can often last a lifetime. Golf is also great for encouraging young people to be more confident and outgoing. Members often comment on how polite and courteous the youngsters are around the clubhouse. It gives many young people a distinct advantage in their future careers showing team and social skills.”

The Junior Section comprises a mixture of siblings, members’ children and school friends. Juniors tend to be mainly boys, though girls are more than welcome. Some of the club’s current junior girls have gone on to represent the club at County standard.

Club plans summer showcase Planning

DOWNLOAD OUR APP

inboxes be groaning under the weight of all the contributions? Watch this space for the next edition of The Rothley Post, and you can find out. Happy gardening!

From Thurcaston and Cropston Gardening Club Pics: a container of vegetables & a vase of flowers from a previous show

GCR bid rejected THE GREAT Central Railway's bid for Heritage Lottery emergency funding has been turned down.

On August 26, the Great Central Railway received the disappointing news that their bid for £250,000 of emergency funding from the Heritage Lottery’s Emergency Fund was unsuccessful.

The fund is intended to support organisations and “stabilise operations and manage unforeseen risks and costs” and “to cover essential costs for up to four months." Other heritage railways such as Severn Valley, Keighley and Worth Valley, Nene Valley and the Crich Tramway Museum have been helped by the fund which has been set up to assist heritage ventures to navigate the Covid-19 crisis.

Commenting on the news, the Railway’s Managing Director, Michael Gough said: “This is another bitter blow from the HLF – they don’t seem to like us very much, having turned us down for the museum grant three years ago and now this.”

Covid-19

P/20/1509/2: 2 Old Farm Close Rothley Leicestershire LE7 7PQ Proposed partial garage conversion & single storey link extension to existing dwelling & associated works P/20/1474/2: 8 Kiln Garth Rothley LE7 7LZ Two storey and single storey extension to attached house, to create extended kitchen and dining area and entrance lobby, plus conversion of bathroom to bedroom and creation of two en suite bath/shower rooms.

P/20/1442/2:36 Oaktree Way Rothley Leicestershire LE7 7YF Single storey rear and side extension P/20/1416/2: 93 Swithland Lane Rothley Leicestershire LE7 7SH Proposed extension above existing garage to include insertion of dormer windows to front, side and rear and 2-storey extension to rear following demolition of existing conservatory to rear and internal alterations P/20/1410/2: 60 Swithland Lane Rothley Leicestershire LE7 7SE Erection of single storey extension to side of dwelling.

P/20/1331/2: 7 Moore Gardens Close Rothley LE7 7UQ Loft conversion including raising ridge height of existing roof line by 500mm.

P/20/1445/2: 25 Barwell Drive Rothley Leicestershire LE7 7WB Roof extension for box dormer and single storey extension to rear of detached dwelling.

P/20/1375/2: Rothley Ivanhoe Tennis Club Mountsorrel Lane Rothley Leicester LE7 7 PS Variation of Condition 3 of P/13/0255/2 (relating to hours of operation of floodlights for tennis courts 5 and 6 P/20/1440/2: 15 Rowe Leyes Furlong Rothley Leicestershire LE7 7LS Certificate of lawful development (proposed) for a single storey rear extension with 2 roof lights.

P/20/1219/2: Former St Johns Ambulance North Street Rothley Leicestershire LE7 7NN Demolition of the existing building on-site and the erection of an apartment building comprising of 4 no. dwellings and associated facilities, and alterations to the vehicular access and parking arrangements P/20/1164/2: 49 North Street Rothley LE7 7NN Retention of extraction flue, extension of associated ducting including encasement with brick cladding and raising of rear parapet wall by 300mm P/20/1091/2: 9 Furrow Close Rothley LE7 7RQ Erection of single storey extension to side of garage.

The next issue of

THE ROTHLEY POST will be published on Nov 7.

The copy deadline is Oct 23.

THE ROTHLEY POST YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

SCHOOL KIDS TRANSPORT • ACCOUNT WORK AIRPORT • WORK • SHOPPING

Unit 109, Greenacres, The Sidings, Leicester LE4 3BR Editor: Mr Jerry Jackson

Book your journey in advance or request the same car everyday

Editorial/Advertising

0116 4422067

Car Partition Specialist Wedding Gown Cleaning Open: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri: 9-5pm Wed & Sat: 9-1pm

Correspondence, news etc can be handed in or sent to our office: Unit 109, Greenacres, The Sidings, Leicester LE4 3BR editor@birstallpost.co.uk

SEP 2020

“Summer Showcase”. No prizes, no competition, no rushing around on the morning of During lockdown, the club has prothe show duced monthly newsletters, featuring searching for photos and comments from members as the best a means of keeping in touch, sharing gardening news and highlighting success- blooms or the most perfect es and the occasional disaster! truss of tomaIt has been a great year for roses, toes. Instead, and the spring tulips in many gardens members have sent people rushing for their cameras been invited and smartphones. to submit In normal circumstances, the first photos for four classes to “showcase” Saturday of September would have seen one of the crowning glories of the club’s their activities over the summer.

A vase of mixed garden flowers calendar, the Annual Garden, Craft and A suitable container of vegetables Produce Show. For the last 36 years, members and friends have filled the hall (minimum five) A photograph, subject beginning with with an astonishing display of fruit, vege‘C’ tables, flowers, cakes, arts and crafts.

Lockdown Arts and Crafts ‘Something The extremely popular ‘tombola’ would I created during lockdown’ be churning out prizes and the newly A more leisurely approach, with a polished cups and awards would be deadline into the first week of Septemwaiting for the winners to take home. ber. It doesn’t have the thrill of the real But sadly, not this year. show, but hopefully, the showcase will So instead, Gardening Club members allow members to celebrate this glorious have been invited to contribute to a summer and to recognize the different ways we all connect with our gardens and so with each other.

So, we invite members to share their photos as a way of saying ‘hello’ to fellow friends and gardeners.

Will it be a success? Will our

IT’S BEEN a long time since the members of Thurcaston and Cropston Gardening Club have been able to meet; our last meeting was in March.

THE ROTHLEY POST

12