The Bradgate Magazine - January 2016 by The Bradgate Magazine - Leicestershire

THE BRADGATE MAGAZINE

Bradgate

The

January / February 2016

magazine

Happy New Year! Local News, Events, Charities, Schools, Gardens, Travel, Sport, JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2016 | ISSUE 18

Weddings & more... Healthy Heart Challenge!

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Your Local Community Magazine January / February 2016

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January / February 2016

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January / February 2016

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January / February 2016

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FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome... Welcome to our first magazine of the New Year, we do hope that you had a fantastic Christmas and end of 2015 celebrations and that you are all looking forward to a happy, healthy 2016.

CONTENTS

In this edition we have some interesting articles for you to peruse and enjoy and as a lot of people will be looking forward to getting married this year we have a super feature on weddings to tantalise all you future brides and grooms out there - take a look at all the great ideas from page 28 onwards.

10 CHALLENGE YOURSELF Take up a new challenge this new year... Heart Research UK have a whole host of exciting challenges for you to take on in 2016.

We’ve also a smashing gardening article on page 35 that outlines out some really useful hints and tips with regards to items that need attention at this time of year, from planting to pruning as well as advice on garden alterations. If you prefer a slightly more active start to 2016 however how about setting yourself a Healthy Heart Challenge (see page 10 for more details)? Heart disease is still the UK’s single biggest killer so why not take a moment to read about the different ways that you can test and inspire yourself or a group to raise vital funds for Heart Research UK. Prefer the indoor-arts to outdoor-pursuits? If so, Leicester Sketch Club are staging an exhibition of local work for your delectation, between the 28th January and 19th March (see page 46). Representing a great opportunity to see some of our finest local artists’ work up close and personal, why not get along to the Sock Gallery at Loughborough’s Town Hall for a fantastic free event with friends or family.

Jan / Feb 2016

Finally, we’ve a very interesting article to share with you about how modern technology can help people with autism. ‘Brain in the Hand ‘provides people with personalised support using a mobile phone application. It has been a terrific help to many individuals but don’t just take our word for it, turn to page 13 for more information and to read how it’s helping support users.

13 BRAIN IN HAND Learn how a phone app with personalised support can help people with certain conditions such as Autism. 28 THE WEDDING PAGES We’ve handpicked the cream of the LOCAL (business) crop to help you with your wedding planning.. have a browse of our wedding pages.. 35 NEW YEAR IN YOUR GARDEN Welcome to a new year in your garden. Make a new year’s resolution to look at what you would like to add to or change in your garden.

Ed & the team CONTACT US: editor@thebradgatemagazine.co.uk | 01530 249589 | www.thebradgatemagazine.co.uk ADVERTISING: For anyone wishing to advertise in The Bradgate contact the editor for prices, deadlines & offers! Our Disclaimer:

Reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all content, The Bradgate Magazine takes no responsibility for the accuracy of statements or content and can accept no liability for errors, omissions or any inconvenience arising therefrom. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission from the publisher. All text, images and design in this publication and on the website are subject to copyright. Any unauthorised duplication is strictly prohibited. Artwork and articles are accepted in good faith and on the condition that permission has been granted for use on our website. Copyright © The Bradgate Magazine Ltd.

January / February 2016

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Set yourself a Healthy Heart Challenge in 2016 Yes it’s January and yes that’s right, it’s the time of year we all feel under pressure to make a new start, lose weight and do something new with our lives. With life being so hectic nowadays it’s not always easy to commit to your new year’s health resolutions. One way to ensure you stay committed is to sign up for an event with Heart Research UK. This will give you a set date to aim to, people will sponsor you so you can’t let them or yourself down by quitting and after all that, you will have gained a new experience in life, improved your health and probably made some great friends along the way. Heart Research UK have a whole host of exciting challenges for you to take on in 2016 such as the iconic Great North Run, the London Bupa 10k, Silverstone Half Marathon, the Yorkshire Three Peaks and the Subway 5k series. Not to mention adrenalin packed skydives or intrepid global challenges such as trekking the mighty Great Wall of China or cycling from London to Paris. Even if leaving your home town to do a challenge seems too much effort and cost, Heart Research UK have even thought of something to suit you too. The My Run, My Way challenge is aimed at people who want to create their own run. Take on your own 5k, 10k, half or full marathon and do it your way. Choose a date, time, route, distance and people to run with and apply for your FREE pack to get started – easy. There is also the Swim the Channel challenge where you have three months to swim the distance of the channel, but don’t worry, it’s in the comfort of your local swimming pool. So if you want to set yourself that all important Healthy Heart Challenge just contact Heart Research UK to sign up for an event and you will receive your FREE fundraising pack along with a set of Lifestyle leaflets to help and advise you on how to keep your heart healthy. Heart disease is still the UK’s single biggest killer and can strike any of us at any time. Knowing that 80% of this disease is preventable is very important. You can make changes right now to help change the future of your heart health and fitness plays a huge part in this change. Don’t put it off, make the change and sign up today at

www.heartresearch.org.uk/events call 0113 2347474 or email community@heartresearch.org.uk.

Home Heat Helpline With winter upon us, Loughborough MP Nicky Morgan is encouraging local residents to call a free helpline to find out what help they may be entitled to with their energy costs. Launched ten years ago, Home Heat Helpline is a free, impartial and confidential service offering support to anyone concerned about paying their energy bills and staying warm during winter. Eligible people include vulnerable, low-income households. New figures show that over 450,000 people have used the services in the last decade to help them manage their energy bills and energy efficiency. You can call the Home Heat Helpline: 0800 33 66 99 (0333 300 33 66 from a mobile) or visit:

www.homeheathelpline.org.uk 10

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January / February 2016

Wish Warriors raise £1,774.60 at Ladies Pamper Evening Wish Warrior Tracey Maddock from Rothley organised another successful beauty night in aid of Alex’s Wish on Friday, 20th November at the Rothley School Rooms. The event was attended by 93 ladies who enjoyed delicious canapés and a complimentary glass of wine and champagne tasting by Champagne 4 all occasions. Tracey worked alongside Alex’s Wish to approach local beauty businesses to ask if they would donate their time on the evening offering mini beauty treatments in exchange for donations. Emma Hallam, founder of Alex’s Wish said “We are thrilled with the success of this event, all the ladies seemed to really enjoy themselves whilst supporting a fabulous and well worthy cause. We raised £467.60 on the raffle alone so would like to thank everyone who very kindly took part and our stall holders who donated prizes including a day an Experience Day at Ragdale Hall.” “We would like to thank Tracey for putting on this great event and being true Wish Warriors – raising money fighting to conquer Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.” “A huge thank you also goes to Elan Hair Design, Ragdale Hall, Sharon Parr, Luisa Diez Nails, Jan-Maris Bisiker at Kinesiology, Denise Rainford, Michelle Marchant at Neals Yard, Amy Barratt at Beauty by Amy, Clarins and Emma Hughes for donating their time on the night with all proceeds made from treatments equating to £547.00 going to our cause. Thank you also to our stall holders for donating 10% of all commission made on the night. We look forward to organising future pamper evenings as they are always such a great success!” Alex’s Wish is looking for Wish Warriors to join their fight to find a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. They need Wish Warriors to tell 10 people about their cause; take part or marshal at their events; donate time or skills; introduce us to their company; run; swim; cycle or bungee jump! For more details on how you can get involved visit www. alexswish.co.uk It is through fundraising events such as this one that Alex’s Wish are able to fund clinical trials to help bring new drugs and treatments to market for what is currently an incurable degenerative condition. Since launch, Alex’s Wish has funded 12 projects equating to £230k to help bring about new treatments for boys with Duchenne.

BABY CHARITY SHOP OPENS IN LEICESTER All Things Baby UK is a charity shop that sells good quality baby goods at affordable prices. They have brand new pushchairs & prams, brand new clothes and blankets, as well as some very good quality second-hand items. Why buy new, when you can spend half as much or less on “like new” items, and help support 2 local charities. 100% of profits goes to supporting ADAPT prembabies and The Zinthiya Trust. Adapt is a small charity which provides support to families with premature and unwell babies on the neonatal units at Leicester Royal Infirmary and Leicester General Hospital. It also provides ongoing care after families have gone home (www.prembabies.co.uk). The Zinthiya Trust is a registered charity that offers support to women from disadvantaged backgrounds such as those who may have found their way into crime, sex work, long term unemployment or those that are homeless or victims of domestic violence (www.zinthiyatrust.org). The charity shop has recently moved premises to Bishop Street in Leicester. Previously they were known as ADAPT Baby Charity Shop, and we were situated just outside of Birstall. They gratefully accept donations. The charity shop also has an ebay shop, so if you can’t get to the shop in person, have a look on their ebay shop, new items are being added all the time (www.ebay.co.uk/usr/ adapt1995). Facebook: All Things Baby 15 | Twitter: @AllThingsBaby15 | ebay: ADAPT1995 10 Bishop Street, Town Hall Square, Leicester, LE1 6AF | Tel: 0116 254 5165 (donations) | Tel: 07581 509 514 Open Tuesday - Friday, 10am - 2pm

Ladies Circle Coffee Morning

- Sunday 19th March 2016, 10 - 11:30am

At the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley. Stalls, raffle, tombola, cake, White Elephant. Admission £1 inc. tea/ coffee and biscuit. In aid of The Laura Centre.

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Charity News

VOLUNTEERING, WITH A DIFFERENCE Boost your own skills while enhancing the self-confidence and capabilities of young people. The benefits of taking part in this unique experience are numerous. Across Leicestershire and beyond, businesses and individuals are volunteering their time to work with Young Enterprise; the UK’s leading enterprise and financial education charity, working with young people aged 4 to 25 to develop their employability skills. This is your opportunity to help students to run a successful business by guiding them through the first stages of setting up a company. Through this experience not only will you be consulting, mentoring, motivating, encouraging, and leading the students to success, but also developing your own skills and knowledge. Time commitment: minimum one hour every 2 weeks during one academic year - however if you have more time, the students would appreciate all the help they can get! If you’d like to learn more about volunteering opportunities with Young Enterprise across Leicestershire, please e-mail: tina.smith@y-e.org.uk or Twitter: @Tina4YE

Phone App Designed Specifically For Autism

Autism East Midlands service users discover life changing phone app designed specifically for Autism. Brain in Hand is a revolutionary approach to help individuals with conditions such as autism, anxiety, mild or moderate mental illness, or recovering from brain injury. It helps them to live more independently at home and be more effective in education or the workplace. Brain in Hand provides people with personalised support from an app on their phone. Features include instant access to pre-planned coping strategies, a diary to help structure time and “recipes” for difficult to remember tasks, a monitor to track anxiety levels and a system to request support if things don’t go to plan. From a secure website support staff can monitor usage, track success of interventions and identify new issues. Autism East Midlands identified that Brain in Hand, a cloud-based solution, could make a big difference to many of its service users. The innovation, Brain in Hand, helps those who experience high levels of anxiety, and who may need support to be able to cope with a change to routine. Brain in Hand has been piloted within Autism East Midlands with service users like Luke Hemstock. Luke can find it hard to cope with the daily stresses of life, in particular unexpected changes, which can cause him to experience anxiety and anger. To help Luke better cope with his anxieties, Austim East Midlands introduced assistive technology, Brain in Hand, to his support plan. Brain in Hand has made a significant difference to Luke. It has helped him to take control of his behaviour and manage his own stress and anxieties. Commenting on the technology Luke says: “I have a Brain in hand phone and it’s helped me to control my anxieties and stress. It has really helped me control my anger for the problems I face and I’ve got much better ever since using it.” Talking of the project, Jane Howson, CEO, Autism East Midlands, said: “As a parent-led charity, we are totally committed to providing individuals and their families with the support they need to live their lives to the full, throughout their lives. Brain in Hand can increase such personalisation and targeting of individual care”. The results seen by the Brain in Hand programme has led to a further roll-out of the technology at Autism East Midlands. The charity is currently rolling the technology out across all of its service areas, with many more users introduced to this innovative mobile platform. For more information visit www.braininhand.co.uk Pictured: Richard Moody service user & Brain in Hand user

Charity Irish Ceilidh for InterCare Friday 5th February 2016, 7:30pm - 10:30pm Irish Ceilidh with live music from local band ‘Turlough’. Tickets £10 - Includes a light supper – Licensed Bar. The Rothley Centre, 12 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley, LE7 7PR. Tickets from 0116 2695925 / k.bragg@intercare.org.uk

January / February 2016

Charity Whist Drive The next in the series of Charity Whist Drives organised by Derek Farr will be at 7.30pm on Thursday 7th January. The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley. Admission £2.00. All players welcome.

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January / February 2016

NT Leicester Association August 2016 will be the 300th anniversary of the birth of Lancelot “Capability” Brown but the name “Capability” only really came into use after his death. He was born at Kirkharl in Northumberland where his father was Estate Manager to Sir Thomas Loraine. Lancelot remained at school until 16 then had a seven year Gardening apprenticeship on the Kirkharl estate. He left home in 1739 and two years later was appointed head gardener at Stowe, owned by Lord Cobham and now a National Trust property. He was married in 1744 and the happy couple had 9 children. In 1751 he moved to a house overlooking the river Thames in Hammersmith where, based on his contacts over the previous ten years, he became an independent landscape garden designer. He worked continuously for the rest of his life on almost 200 of the most famous estates in England. The highlight of his career was in 1764 when George III appointed him Surveyor to His Majesty’s Gardens and Waters covering Hampton Court, Richmond Park and St James Park. The appointment included a large salary and a grand residence at Hampton Court. Lancelot Brown is best remembered for landscape on a grand scale, constructing not only gardens and parkland, but planting woods and building farms and houses all linked by carriage drives covering many miles across estates. Some of his best loved landscapes include Chatsworth, Burghley, Syon Park, Blenheim, Longleat and Highclere (Downton Abbey). The National Trust own ten Lancelot Brown estates.

The Friends of Charnwood Forest Charnwood Forest: a Living Landscape Talk by Michael Jeeves

Monday 18th January 2016 at 7.30 pm Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall, Main Street, Woodhouse Eaves, Leicestershire, LE12 8RZ. Michael Jeeves has been Head of Conservation, Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust for the last 25 years. The Charnwood Forest Living Landscape project aims to conserve and enhance the unique wildlife, geology and character of Charnwood Forest. The project is led by the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust and is supported by Aggregate Industries. The Trust offers free wildlife surveys to landowners, has a small grant scheme to help with management work and collaborates with others who are concerned with the conservation of this special area. Members are free. Guests are welcome, £3 at the door. Refreshments included. Further information: Peter Bertram 01162 100 572 or visit the website:

www.focf.org.uk

THURCASTON & CROPSTON W.I. We meet on the first Thursday evening of the month at 7.30 pm (except January) in Thurcaston Memorial Hall Why not come along to a meeting and find out more about us. Be assured of a warm welcome. Visitors £4 per meeting. This first few meetings of 2016 are below:

Wednesday 6th January - Oliver at the Curve Lancelot Brown collapsed one evening on a London street and died the following day. He was 67 and was buried at Fenstanton near Cambridge where he owned Fenstanton Manor and had been appointed High Sheriff of Huntingdonshire. The NT Leicester Association has an evening meeting on Tuesday 12th January when Val Williams will present an illustrated talk on The Isle of Man. The meeting will be held at Braunstone West Social Centre, St Mary’s Avenue, Braunstone at 7.30pm. There will also be an afternoon meeting on Wednesday 27th January at St Guthlac’s Memorial Hall, Holbrook Road, Leicester at 2.30pm when Sally Henshaw will present a talk on Anne Neville. Admission to both meetings is NTLA members £2.50, visitors £4.00 including refreshments. For details of the NT Leicester Association and its Talks Service for other organisations please call 0116 2229133.

Alan Tyler, Publicity Officer

This is already full for 2016 but why not join us for a theatre visit later in the year ?

Thursday 4th February - Great Central Railway Past, Present & Future Mike Riley, steam enthusiast, will fill in all those gaps in your knowledge about our own heritage railway.

Thursday 3rd March - Cheese & Wine – Guess the cheese competition and quiz You don’t have to be a gourmet to enjoy this evening – an opportunity to socialise.

Thursday 7th April - The Art of the Chair Bodger Peter Wood has a workshop at Staunton Harold but will be with us this evening to demonstrate and keep us entertained. A selection of his work will be on sale.

Friday 22nd April - The Magic of the Beatles Back to the Swinging Sixties at Loughborough Town Hall. A chance to test your memory and annoy your neighbour by singing along to your favourite numbers. Please do come and join us! www.thebradgatemagazine.co.uk

Quorn Juniors Football Club Achieves FA Charter Standard Award Quorn Juniors Football Club has recently received the Football Association’s Charter standard award for the current season. Sponsored by McDonalds, this accolade recognises high quality, well run and sustainable football clubs, where putting fun and safety is at the heart of what they do. In short, it acknowledges excellence in junior football in the community. In addition to the award and as part of the McDonalds programme to support grassroots football, the club also received a complimentary team kit and match ball. A brilliant example of football in the community, Quorn Juniors F.C. has over 300 players. These are represented in over 22 teams and include boys and girls of all age ranges and abilities. The club is supported by countless volunteers that range from parents who help to set up pitches on a match day, to the coaches and Club Committee. Club chairman, Scott Parker said “It is a fantastic honour to once again receive this award. It is a reflection of the endeavours and energy of all who help to run the club. I’d also like to say a particular thank you to Stuart Broughton and Brian Lowe who have worked tirelessly to help us achieve this status”. Photo: Quorn Junior’s Under 9’s Hounds Team wearing the ‘McDonalds’ kit, prior to their match versus Melton Foxes Cubs Under 9’s

RALLY WIN FOR BARROW PAIR

In the early part of November, John Dignan and his son Peter piloted their 1966 MGB Roadster to a class victory in The International Rally of Tests. The Barrow upon Soar-based crew also finished in second position overall in this classic car event, which this year was run over several counties in the north of England and the south of Scotland. They also tasted victory as part of a team of three cars, which included a Porsche 356 and a Ford Escort MK1. The field of seventy five cars represented a who’s who of classic car rallying, with a wonderful selection of eighteen marques from the 1950s and 1960s. Amongst these were Porsches, Volvos, Alfa Romeos, Minis, Fords and MGs. Examples from Austin-Healey, Mercedes-Benz, Hillman, Triumph, Jaguar and Lancia were also in attendance. Famous names taking part included Fred Gallagher (co-driver to Tony Pond and Juha Kankkunen) and Neil Wilson (winner of the RAC Rally with Henri Tolvonen in 1985). Run over four days, the rally started in Northumberland with an evening prologue of two driving tests and two regularity sections (a section of the rally to be completed in a specified time). This placed the Dignan’s MGB in eleventh position overall for the start of the first full day, which was to be run from Slaley Hall in Northumberland to Dumfries. The Day 1 route had five navigation regularity sections and eight special tests and ran through Kielder Forest, Hawick, Selkirk, Bowhill Estate (near Selkirk), before a tea halt at Drumlanrig Castle in Dumfries and Galloway. The day’s efforts moved John and Peter up to first overall and helped put their three-car team ahead of the pack. An evening time control section on the challenging Dundrennan Military Ranges, near the Solway Firth, saw them drop to second place before the night stop at Dumfries. Day 2 comprised six regularities and nine more special tests through the areas of Kershope, Kielder Forest, Hadrian’s Wall, Langley Castle, the Pennines, the North Yorkshire Moors and Tan Hill. During the day, John and Peter again moved up to first overall, only to drop to second after the night time controls on the Catterick Ranges. After the night halt at Redworth Hall in County Durham, Day 3 included five regularities and nine tests routing through the Pennines via Skipton before crossing into Bowland Forest, the Trough of Bowland and the roads throughout Lancashire. The final tests at Weeton Army Barracks were followed by the finish in Blackpool. At the Gala dinner and prize giving, John and Peter were awarded some magnificent glass trophies for their class and team victories and also for finishing second overall. This excellent result crowned a very successful year for the Dignans, which included the award for top expert in the Historic Rally Car Register (HRCR) classic road rally championship. John has owned the MGB since 1968 and has won the MG Car Club speed championship seven times with the car. He is a member of the North Leicester MG Club which meets at the Lingdale Golf Club near Woodhouse Eaves on the third Wednesday of each month. Visit the club’s website www.northleicester-mg.org.uk to find out all about the club’s activities. January / February 2016

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Plan the holiday of a lifetime this New Year! Independent Travel Connoisseurs Villair are a team of specialist travel advisors with combined travel experience of over 180 years. Whether you are longing to tour the world, take a luxury cruise of a lifetime, explore Australia or New Zealand or plan to get married in a tropical paradise, they can help you. Their consultants are adept at creating tailor-made bespoke itineraries for discerning travellers seeking authentic experiences around the world. They are, themselves, seasoned travellers, each with individual expertise in the destinations they have visited, and they offer a high level of personal service with great attention to detail. Visit www. villair.com to meet the team and learn about their different specialist areas. During 32 years in business, Villair have built up strong relationships with extremely professional and knowledgeable independent tour operators in order to ensure that your travel arrangements run smoothly. Many Agents are not selected to sell the following Operators but Villair’s trained staff are:Audley Travel, Cox and Kings, Africa Pride, Wendy Wu Tours, Typically Italian, Beachcomber Mauritius, Caribtours, If Only, Explore and Exodus Worldwide to name a few. They also offer great value on well-known Operators such as Jet 2 Holidays, Titan Travel, Saga Holidays, Mercury Holidays, P&O Cruises, Royal Caribbean and many others. Villair take pride in finding the best value for your holiday spend and in giving unrivalled personal service. You can rest assured that you’re fully protected by ABTA and ATOL. Why not give Villair a call on 01530 413055 or email info@villair.com or better still call in to discuss your intended holiday in pleasant surroundings over a coffee? You’ll be pleased you did!

www.villair.com * info@villair.com * 01530 413055

Leics.TV is the place to share, connect and inspire Leics.tv is now one of the fastest growing and widely recognised local media platforms in this region and exists to serve as a fun yet informative voice for local people who have something they want to shout about and share with others. From local hot topics through to the latest movies and theatre shows this brand new service will give you an insight into what really makes our city and county tick. Leics.tv is different in that we are not governed by the public sector or challenged by any local office but what we are doing is helping to change the way Leicester and Leicestershire voices itself as a place for the local community to express its views and share its likes and dislikes as a place for serious business. We will examine how decisions made on behalf of the people could influence our city and county in the future. With our interactive platform, this will allow both people and businesses to have their say and to give their opinion on their local community like nowhere else. Rob Potter, founder of leics.tv said: “We know there is so much to shout about in our amazing city and county and leics. tv offers one of the largest and most flexible platforms for people to get involved. By simply providing us with your amazing images, videos and news this will help us to share information and connect with the community in a big way. It really is a very exciting time to get involved”. We want to hear about and showcase your best creations whether this be an amazing local story or experience together with your fantastic images or short videos telling us about you, your interests or your community... you could be a local dance teacher who has changed the lives of many or a coach who has some great inspirational stories to tell or perhaps you’ve recently renovated a historic piece of transport that has been your life’s dream. We want to hear from you! Although Leics.tv is primarily about capturing stories or magic moments on video, we would be just as happy to receive high quality pictures to accompany your written piece. And don’t forget to include your contact details or website info so that people can get in touch with you. This is an exciting technological age that we live in and leics.tv are one step ahead by offering a complete communication platform for local people to share, engage and connect instantly. With its official launch in early 2016 make sure that you are part of this exciting new service. Get in touch with us at: contact-us@leics.tv with your images, videos, stories and news or visit www.leics.tv to find out more.

January / February 2016

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January / February 2016

Thurcaston and Cropston Gardening Club We are pleased to present the Programme of Events for 2016 for the Thurcaston and Cropston Gardening Club. 2015 was another excellent year for the Club. We held eight Club nights at the Thurcaston village hall and a summer programme that included a visit to ‘Mountain Ash’ in Newtown Linford on a glorious sunlit evening and a trip to the superb Waterperry Gardens in Oxfordshire. Our Annual Show in September was another highlight of our year. Now established at the Richard Hill Primary School we maintained the overall success of our two previous Shows at this venue. Home Baking and the Photographic sections showed substantial increases in entries as did all the classes in the children’s section, with huge contributions from the school children and the Brownies and Girl Guides. In October, the Gardening Club contributed to All Saints Church Harvest Festival weekend display. This continued the tradition set over the last few years of the Club committee members decorating the altar area of the Church. The display over the last few years has been excellent, and this year was better than ever. We have seen a steady increase in our membership numbers over recent years and 2015 maintained that trend. We take great care in putting together a very strong Programme of Events, a variety of top class speakers and activities means we can offer something for everyone. What’s more, it is excellent value!! The full membership fee is just £12 and £3 for visitors and will remain the same for 2016. Fees are on a pro rata basis after the first 3 months. And, if you would like to come as a visitor (to give it a try) and then you decide to join, your visitor fee will be refunded!! So, if you are interested in gardening - come and give the Club a try. For more information, please call Dave Haddon on (0116) 235 9758.

Upcoming events: Wednesday 13th January: The Winter Garden by John Stirland. Preceded by AGM (15 to 20 mins). Wednesday 10th February: Creating & Planting a Bog Garden by Linda Smith. Wednesday 9th March: Drought tolerant Gardening by Alan Mason. Wednesday 13th April: Clematis & other Climbers by Jeff Bates.

ROTHLEY HISTORY SOCIETY

At the AGM in November the committee were voted on “en bloc” - namely, Chairman: Sue Joyce, Vice-chairman: Frank Luce, Secretary: Ursula Greaves, Treasurer: Albert Greaves, Programme Secretary: Linda Poole, Newsletter Editor: Jill Anstock and Martin Greenwood. Mary Toone was also nominated and agreed to be part of the committee. The Chairman thanked all members for their continuous support and said that meetings had been well attended. Two outings to the Century Theatre at Snibston and a day trip to Worcester had been enjoyed by all those attending. After the business meeting, we continued by welcoming our speaker, Liz Robson of Rothley’s own vineyard, Kingfishers Pool, who gave us a very detailed explanation of the” ins and outs” of setting up a vineyard, some history of wine and wine making and of course a sample of the results of her labour! At the meeting on January 20th, we look forward to meeting Dr. Julie Attard from the Charnwood Roots Project, who will be telling us all about the proposed “Big Dig”, which is due to take place in Rothley in July. Dr. Attard said, “A team of archaeologists from the University of Leicester Archaeological Services Unit will lead the dig with us and we expect to involve between 120 and 150 local volunteers. Our previous two digs have been immensely enjoyable events for everyone concerned and offer a great opportunity for us to learn more about local archaeology and the development of the village. An undertaking such as this relies on the goodwill of local people. It is not possible without homeowners willing to offer up a small 1 metre by 1 metre square of their back gardens and without an army of diggers, sifters and pot washers to help with the excavations and finds processing. I would appreciate the opportunity to talk to members about the proposal and to ask for advice and support both during the planning phase to identify suitable sites and to help me with the recruitment of volunteers and homeowners”. At our meeting on 17th February, Ernest Miller will be giving us some history and telling us about the route of the River Lin (Newtown Linford). Meetings are held at The Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley at 7.30pm. Admission is £3.50 for visitors and £2.50 for members. Everybody made welcome!

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CHARNWOOD – MUSIC FOR ALL. ORGAN / KEYBOARD CONCERTS Wednesday November 18th brought Andrew Nix to The Charnwood Arms at Bardon. Andrew is a Yorkshireman with a wonderful sense of humour and a relaxed playing-style. In a warm and welcoming venue, with a raffle, bar and hot drinks available, a large audience experienced an entertaining and up-lifting evening. Andrew’s repertoire is extensive. One moment he was beating out hot samba and cha-cha rhythms; the next, slow paced music from the Shows. We heard stirring music from ‘Les Miserables’ with drums and accordions from the barricades, and sad clarinet and oboe sounds in ’Bring him Home’ from the same West End show. There followed a fantastic selection from the Platters with the well-loved sounds of’ ‘Smoke gets in your Eyes’, ‘Only You’ and ‘My Prayer’. A Beatles Medley was well received as we relived the sounds of ‘All My Loving’, ‘Yesterday’ and ‘Hey Jude’. Andrew Nix played a Roland Atelier organ on the night but he also plays a Korg BR3X and had brought along many excellent CDs to prove it. He plays ‘live’ and uses no pre-programming, no sequencing, nor any ‘fancy’ software. He is a joy to watch as his music covers marches, Viennese waltzes, polkas, jive and rock and roll (his selection from the Shadows with guitars and drums was outstanding). His music from Disney, Winifred Atwell, ‘Fiddler on the Roof’’, ‘Phantom of the Opera’ and ‘Lion King’, kept everyone happily entertained. The audience obviously enjoyed Andrew’s humour and the way he related to them in a friendly, and at times, personal way. Two hours flew by and we were left asking for more. My favourite of the evening was ‘Highland Cathedral’; a wonderful, sad, stirring mix of bagpipes, drums, and orchestra. If you enjoy organ and keyboard music, please come and join us. The cost is £6.50, payable on the door and reasonably priced meals are available next door, in the Charnwood Arms, prior to the concert. Forthcoming dates and organists are given below. The concert starts at 7.30pm. For further information contact Chris Powell on 01530 274270 Jan 27th – Brett Wales | Feb 24th – Janet Dowsett | March 23rd –Dirkjan Ranzijn | April 13th – Ian House

Sylvia Cole

Birstall Flower Club We are sorry to hear that after many years, Bradgate Flower Club is closing, and I am sure that it will be sorely missed. However, Birstall Flower Club would like you to know that our Club is not far away. Following our AGM in January, we have a full diary of demonstrations and outings arranged. We meet on the 4th Wednesday of every month (except July and December), 7.15pm start in Birstall Village Hall. There is ample parking in the car park behind the hall (entrance is on School Lane, into the park). Membership is £30 for a full year (including our “Open Evening”) or £5 as a visitor. If you would like to continue with a NAFAS flower club, visit or join our club, please do not hesitate to turn up on Wednesday 25th February to see Joanne Poulter and the title of her demonstration is “Picture This”. For more information phone Sylvia on 0116 2674206 or visit our Facebook page. We look forward to welcoming you.

Charnwood Sports Awards Winners

The borough’s sporting stars were honoured at the Charnwood Sports Awards 2015 towards the end of the year. Golfer Melissa Reid took home the Elite Senior Sportsperson of the Year title after winning the 2015 Turkish Airlines Ladies Open and achieving a top 10 finish at this year’s Women’s British Open, a career best at a major championship. She was one of 13 winners at the event which was organised by Charnwood Borough Council and held at Burleigh Court, Loughborough on Monday, November 30. Marcus Clifton, 20, from Syston, was crowned the Community Senior Sportsperson of the Year after representing his country in bowls. Other winners included Loughborough’s rising star Ben Dijkstra, 17, who finished eighth at the ITU Junior World Triathlon Championship and took home the bronze medal at the ETU European Triathlon Championship. Councillor Jonathan Morgan, the council’s Cabinet Member for Community Cohesion, said: “The Charnwood Sports Awards was a great night which gave us a chance to celebrate and recognise the talented stars we have in the borough. “Every year the awards get bigger and the quality of the nominations is so high it gives the judges an extremely difficult job when picking winners.” The categories recognised the achievements of junior and senior athletes, coaches, volunteers and individual projects. For more information on the Charnwood Sports Awards visit: www.charnwood.gov.uk/sportsawards. January / February 2016

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January / February 2016

TOP MARKS FOR DIXIE GRAMMAR IN INSPECTION Staff, pupils and parents from the Dixie Grammar School are celebrating this week following the publication of the school’s inspection report which awards them the highest possible rating in every category. The Independent Schools Inspectorate uses a four-point scale, with ‘excellent’ being the equivalent to Ofsted’s ‘outstanding’. Schools are closely inspected in eight key areas and Dixie was given the coveted ‘excellent’ rating in all categories. The inspection took place between Tuesday 13 and Friday 16 October 2015, examining the quality of pupils’ learning and achievement, the contribution of curricular and extra-curricular provision, the contribution of teaching, the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of the pupils, the contribution of arrangements for pastoral care, the contribution of arrangements for welfare health and safety, the quality of governance and the quality of leadership and management. Staff at the school know that very few schools receive the elusive ‘excellent’ for teaching and even fewer achieve ‘excellent’ across the board, so were delighted when the Headmaster was able to pass on such excellent news. All three phases of schooling at Dixie (Nursery, Junior and Senior) were covered by the inspection which gives cause for celebration for the whole family of staff and for pupils aged from 3-18. Highlights from the report include parents being delighted with the way the school is led and deals with each pupil as an individual, the excellent quality of teaching and the extremely well-planned lessons which engage pupils, teachers giving of their time generously out of class and the strong relationships between staff and pupils resulting in excellent pastoral care and secure, confident pupils. The report also highlighted pupils’ excellent personal development and commented on both the high achievements of the youngest pupils in the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) and on the excellent skills in independent working, reasoning and investigation in evidence in the Sixth Form. A number of key events are now being planned to celebrate such an achievement with staff, parents, pupils and the wider community. Headmaster, Mr Richard Lynn, commented, “I could not be prouder of the school, staff, parents and pupils and I am thrilled that no school in the wider area has received a more glowing assessment from ISI.”

Community Apple Press Day All Grace Dieu pupils from Cygnets to Year 8 have been involved in their first Apple Press Day. Mme Tatton led the day and pupils were able to experience the whole manufacturing process of producing and preserving pure apple juice. The ‘production line’ included bottle washing, apple scrubbing, chopping, mulching, pressing, bottling and pasteurising. It was a great experience for all involved and the juice produced was extremely tasty... It was a wonderful way for the children to experience first-hand how we take unwanted windfall apples to produce a refreshing and healthy drink! The Children went on to complete the cycle by selling the School ‘branded’ Apple Juice on the Council Stall at the Grace Dieu Christmas Fayre. It was a great learning experience for all!

Grace Dieu help with Operation Christmas Child

Many thanks once again to all the parents and pupils who took the time to prepare shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child during November. With the help of Mrs Jasper we sent 140 boxes from Grace Dieu which are destined for Swaziland in Africa. The power of a simple shoebox gift is immense. The gifts inside are fun and practical and bring delight to all the children who receive them.

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January / February 2016

28 - The Wedding Pages

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The Wedding Pages

So you said YES (congratulations) ...but what now?? Planning & Research of course... and where better to start than here in our lovingly crafted ‘Wedding Pages’? We’ve handpicked the cream of the LOCAL (business) crop - fantastic wedding venues, dresses to die for, blooming gorgeous flowers, the perfect hair and make up (with some great discounts on offers) ... we’ve even hunted out those sweet extra’s that will make your big day finish with a bang! There’s so much to think about when beginning to plan your wedding... Budget, registration, venue, caterers, guest list (and dreaded seating plan), rings, entertainment, flowers, cake, photos, bridesmaids, best man, THE dress/suit, getting in shape, honeymoon, gift list, favours and soooooooo much more... ... Isn’t it time you sat back, had a browse through our wedding pages to help get your creative taste buds going so that dream wedding of yours can slowly fall into place.... Enjoy!!

January / February 2016

The Wedding Pages - 29

Wedding Dresses.... What’s New For 2016? Weddings are back in favour! It has been a lean few years with the recession but we seem to well and truly be coming out of the other side and wedding figures are going up and up! Perhaps the tide of reality bridal shows on TV like ‘Say yes to the Dress’ and ‘Don’t tell the Bride’ (which we show cased in a few episodes ago!), are all pushing weddings and gowns into the minds of lots more ‘Want to Be’ brides. Whatever the reason, we are more than happy to assist with stock of over 500 stunning creations under our roof in Anstey. So let us see what is new and big in for 2016 weddings? Even going forward to Spring 2017... YES the brides do order this early in case you are wondering. Why bother trying on now if not? Well a wide variety of options for shoulders seems to be the way forward to start with depending on if you wish to show a lot or not. There are wrist grazing sleeves, high slash necks, spaghetti straps and capped sleeves. Watch out for sparkling embellishments and luxurious fabrics on the majority of gowns. Vintage and lace are still big sellers going into their 4th / 5th year now but designed with low backs, key holes and any variety of bead work or embroidery over see through fine tulle across the back area and sometimes right down to the top of the derriere! Very sensual from behind and demure from the front especially if long sleeved. Short fifties style gowns seem to be selling straight off the peg at really good price points and many brides are deciding on these for their reception dancing as they won’t break the bank and are just to die for. You have a choice of lace, net and tulle or satin and organza. Lovely with a pair of fabulous, very high pointy heels. Lots of ball gowns are around and the new Eddy K Ones just arrived are mouth wateringly amazing and fit like a glove. We have a size 20 in a blush champagne on our mannequin and a size 10 orchid white with a crystal bodice which shows that any size bride can feel and look like a real princess on her wedding day. Of course many of the lace gowns are slinky and fine for a more natural look but many are corseted with tight fishtails. I wonder which you will decide on for your big day? Do you wish to be an enchanting young girl? Or a sexy curvy woman? A romantic damsel? Or a Boho chic type of bride? A Hollywood glamour Siren perhaps? Cut out images from magazines and start to build up a picture of your wedding. You can do the same with cakes, flowers and table settings etc! Have fun… this is a great part, planning and building up a picture of your entire wedding day from scratch.

Susanne and the team at Bradgate Brides x

30 - The Wedding Pages

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January / February 2016

The Wedding Pages - 31

32 - The Wedding Pages

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January / February 2016

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New Year In Your Garden...

with Joanne Kennedy

Welcome to a new year in your garden. Make a new year’s resolution to look at what you would like to add to or change in your garden. Perhaps this is the year you opt for a complete re-vamp? Maybe you would just like to sort out that bit of the garden that you’ve never liked? Either way, planning is key. Have a wander round your garden and take photos of the areas you’d like to enhance. You can then look at the photos even when it’s pouring with rain outside. Think about the look you want to achieve. Do you want more background structure from evergreen shrubs? Does the border need more colour at certain times of the year? Are your plants tired and do they need replacing? Measure the area you’d like to change then you’ll have an idea of the size of plants you’ll need. Note if the area is sunny or shady and the soil type - is it clay or sandy? is it acidic or alkaline? You can buy a small soil testing kits from local garden centres (they are not expensive) to enable you to do this. It is well worth it if you’re planning on spending money on plants as money can be wasted if you don’t get the right plants for the best place. The following websites have good information: The Royal Horticultural Society (www.rhs.org.uk); Crocus (www.crocus.co.uk) or Shoot Gardening (www.shootgardening.co.uk). There are many books available too. Start planning now and you’ll have a wonderful garden to look at by summertime.

Things to do in the garden this month:

Plants of the month

• Continue to clear leaves from borders 1 & 2. Sarcococca hookeriana (winter box). It’s an • Ensure tender plants are wrapped or covered in fleece evergreen shrub that loves slightly acidic, clay soil. • Clean out greenhouses and sheds with a disinfectant such as It has scented white flowers throughout the winter. Jeyes fluid - this rids them of pests and diseases • Clean your tools with a disinfectant 3. Lonicera x purpuseii (A Honeysuckle shrub). It • Sharpen tools – secateurs, shears and lawn edging shears has small white, lemon scented flowers before the • Request seed catalogues to help you decide what annual leaves come out. flowers and vegetables you would like to grow • Prune apple and pear trees 4. You may also start to see snowdrops popping • Prune blackcurrant, gooseberry and redcurrant bushes through at the end of the month. • Plant bare-rooted hedges and trees. For advice feel free to contact me on 07739 153516 or 01530 832670, or through my website (www.gardenblueprints.net). I set up Garden Blueprints in 2006 and since then I have helped hundreds of clients with their garden designs and planting requirements.

January / February 2016

The Monday Club Anstey, Cropston, Thurcaston & Rothley The last meeting of 2015 was is November when speaker Mr. Roy Wood was welcomed by a very enthusiastic audience including several visitors. The intriguing title of the “Secrets of the Rich” caught considerable attention. Roy’s professional experience covered 35 years in the wealth management sector, having worked for such industry heavyweights as Barclays and for the past ten years with St. James’s Place Wealth Management of which he is now the Senior Partner. He specialises in providing solutions in the areas of Retirement planning, Estate and Inheritance Tax planning and Investment planning. The company was founded in 1991 by Mike Wilson CBE, Sir Mark Weinberg and Lord Rothschild. The Monday Club is back in 2016 with another year of friendship and excellent speakers, not to mention a Coach Trip in May and a Strawberry Cream Tea in July. - Ann Farndon

Thurcaston and Cropston Local History Society Our meeting on 17th November 2015 began with the A.G.M. when the usual review of the Society’s activities throughout the year took place. Diane Denton resigned from the Committee after seven years’ service and was thanked for the contribution she had made during that time. Society members voted en bloc to elect two new recruits to the Committee and re-elect those who were willing to serve for a further year – the full Committee now has five members in all. At the conclusion of the A.G.M. we enjoyed a talk, with the intriguing title “The World Traveller”, from Society member and archivist, Margaret Greiff. Margaret stated that the title had a sub-title, “As Others See Us”, which was clarified as her talk proceeded. Recalling her childhood, Margaret told us that, as a fifteen year old, she received 2/6d (12½p) pocket money each week. She liked to save her money to put towards specific purchases, particularly for any books in which she was interested, and so, at that time, she was able to buy for 10/- (50p) an antique book, printed in Madrid in 1800, which bears the title of her talk. The fact that this little book is written in Spanish did not deter her 15 year old’s enthusiasm, because she felt that one day it would be her ambition to translate the script into English. Margaret studied Spanish and Portuguese and went on to have a career as a translator, but she did not achieve her ambition to translate her book until relatively recently. “The World Traveller” – as others see us – is a compilation of the thoughts and experiences of people, who today would be known as tourists, from mainland Europe, who visited the British Isles before the turn of the 19th century, and is quite a revelation regarding their opinions about the way of life, customs and idiosyncrasies of the British at that time! Margaret quoted a selection of extracts from her book and we were advised that some comments were quite derogatory! The usual route to Britain was by boat across the English Channel to the port of Dover, from where invariably the traveller would journey on horseback or in a carriage to London – one Frenchman was most impressed at the good condition of the road. This was at a time when, in general, roads were more likely to be poorly maintained and travel could be arduous and uncomfortable. However, on reaching the environs of London, he was less impressed by the all-encompassing stench of burning coal that seemed to envelop the whole of the city with its accompanying grime and gloom. Even then, England was developing as an industrial nation and pollution was already a major problem. Birmingham and Newcastle upon Tyne were specifically mentioned as industrial cities, the latter having a thriving shipping industry and numerous coal-mines. The British weather, frequently being wet, cold and foggy, was made worse by the soot and pollutants produced by burning coal. Generally, English cuisine was considered to be poor and the English preference for drinking tea was baffling, when continental Europeans much preferred coffee – even if coffee was available, it was considered to be of an inferior quality! The apparent ritual required by the English to serve tea was regarded with amusement. Nothing was excluded from this close scrutiny of the British! It was noted that the standard of dress was poor, but men changed their underwear frequently, so this cleanliness was applauded! English ladies generally were well-educated and one of their attributes was to ride their horses gracefully, but less admired was that they appeared to have large feet! For one Frenchman, who travelled further afield to visit Scotland and especially the Hebrides, he was greatly offended by the sound of the bagpipes which was not at all to his liking. Even the behaviour of the clergy was included. At a time when mainland Europe was largely of the Roman Catholic faith and priests were expected to be celibate, the fact that Anglican clergy were able to marry was amazing. Any misdemeanour involving the clergy, and particularly the bishops, was regarded by these travellers with derision, especially any indiscretions where ladies were concerned. Having achieved her aim to translate “The World Traveller” and been astounded by some of its contents, Margaret informed us that her book is just one volume of a whole series of similar books, but she has not actually acquired any of the others.

Jennifer Kennington The meeting concluded with some tasty Spanish sweet delicacies, provided by Brenda Hooper and Margaret to enjoy with our coffee or tea. Our first meeting in 2016 will be on Tuesday 19th January, when Peter Smith will talk about the Cropston & Thurcaston Enclosures – 7.30pm in the Harrison Room, All Saints’ Church, Thurcaston.

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January On The GCR

The main event this month is the three day Winter Gala with two SR locomotives that have never visited the GCR before. There are limited Dining Trains during the month with one special evening train.

THREE DAY WINTER GALA Friday 29th - Sunday 31st January There will be two visiting engines that have not visited the GCR before, SR Battle of Britain No 34053 ‘Sir Keith Park‘, based at The Severn Valley Railway, and owned by Southern Locomotives Limited, and SR ‘U’ class No 31806, based at the Swangae Railway and owned by Mr John Bunch. There will be a busy timetable on the Friday then an intensive one over the weekend with TPO drops at Quorn and freight running to Swithland and Rothley.

DINING TRAINS There are limited dining trains during the month with luncheon trains every weekend except during the gala, there are no Saturday evening diners, but on Saturday the 23rd the Pullman Burns Night will be available.

PREVIEW OF EVENTS IN FEBRUARY

TEDDY AT THE GCR

The main event this month is the half term week with Villains and Superheroes from the 15th to the 19th. There will be more dining trains to pick from during the month also two St Valentine Dining trains one on Saturday Evening the 13th and a Sunday Luncheon on the 14th.

MAIN EVENTS IN 2016 FROM MARCH TO JUNE March: Mothering Sunday Luncheon 6th, Swap Meet Quorn 13th, Diesel Gala 19th and 20th, Easter Vintage Festival 25th to 28th, Easter Bunny and His Minions 29th to 31st. April: Easter Bunny and His Minions 5th to 7th, Peppa Pig and George 30th. May: Peppa Pig and George 1st and 2nd, Classic and Vintage Car Weekend 14th and 15th, Real Ale Train Saturday Evening 14th, Railways at Work 21st and 22nd,Bank Holiday Steam Special 30th, Midweek Running Tuesday 31st. June: Midweek Running Wednesday 1st, 8th,15th,22nd and 29th, Wartime Weekend 3rd to 5th, Model Event 17th to 19th, Father’s Day Luncheon 19th, Swap Meet Quorn 26th. For all the latest information visit the website at:

www.gcrailway.co.uk or phone Loughborough on 01509 632323

Dave Allen, Duty Station Master, Rothley.

One of the two engines for the opening of the Mountsorrel Branch in October last year was based in Leicestershire for many years, Teddy an 0-4-0ST Peckett ‘Yorktown’ Class was bought by the late Rev Edward (Teddy) Boston who in 1963 at his vicarage in Leicestershire founded the Cadeby Light Railway which he ran for 23 years until his death, the vicarage also contained many static exhibits and two model layouts. During the Autumn Gala it spent time at Quorn alongside Michael Stokes’ Aveling & Porter 10-ton steam roller ‘Thistledown’ also formerly owned by Teddy Boston. Teddy was visiting from the Chasewater Railway and was joined by LNER Y7 0-4-0T No 1310 from the Middleton Railway, substituting for the unavailable Andrew Barclay 0-4-0ST Colin McAndrew from the Chasewater Railway

PHOTO LEFT: During the opening weekend of the Mountsorrel Branch LNER Y7 0-4-0T No 1310 arrives at Mounsorrel Station shuttling between there and Swithland. Teddy is on the other end of the train. PHOTO RIGHT: Teddy an 0-4-0ST Peckett is seen at Quorn during the Autumn Gala visiting the GCR for the opening of the Mountsorrel Branch a few weeks later. January / February 2016 37

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January / February 2016

Crossword

This month's Crossword... ACROSS 1. There is a ferry across it (6) 4. The Mon & Brec is this (8) 9. It’s a fair city (6) 10. Swans are looking good (8) 12. Mind your head (4) 13. It’s a pleasure (5) 14. A nice warm cabin (4) 17. Side by side (6,6) 20. Bones have this (12) 23. GSCE (4) 24. Male relative (5) 25. Can you repeat that (4) 28. They are not very big on a boat (8) 29. Strauss says it’s blue (6) 30. You can tell it’s getting old (8) 31. Asleep on a hill (6)

DOWN

Nov / Dec Crossword Solution

1. There are many canals in this area (8) 2. Rebuking (8) 3. Way out (4) 5. You can get over it (12) 6. Up or down it’s secure (4) 7. Non stick (6) 8. A summer problem at some locks (6) 11. You can’t always get a broadband connection (12) 15. Sea going craft should carry one (5) 16. Warm (5) 18. Shoppers often look for one (8) 19. Subterranean (8) 21. Give other boaters plenty (6) 22. River police do it at Wapping (6) 26. More than two (4) 27. Information (4)

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YOUR LOCAL BIRDWATCHING CLUB The Birstall Birdwatching Club now meets at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley, with free on-site parking and easy access, on the second Tuesday of the month from October to April and new members are very welcome. Indoor meetings start at 7.30pm and end around 9pm. The next meetings are as follows:

NEW YEARS DAY WALK AND LUNCH On Friday 1st January 2016 we will enjoy our annual informal lunch at The Royal Oak in Cossington at 12.30pm. We will meet at 10.00am for a walk in the area of Cossington Meadows to start a bird list for the New Year. For those who want a bit of armchair birding, you can start your list from the comfort of your home and bring it to the lunch as this enlarges the area watched (and you cannot get coffee and biscuits on the banks of the canal!) Menu attached at £13.99 per head. Spouses and friends welcome.

Tuesday 12th January at 7.30pm - MOROCCO by NEIL GLEN Morocco is the most westerly of the North African countries with Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines, a rugged mountainous interior and a rich culture and all combined with great birdwatching in this easily accessible country. Neil will take us to a warm climate, just what we need at this time of the year.

Tuesday 9th February at 7.30pm - THE LITTLE OWLS OF LEICESTERSHIRE by RICHARD PEGLER Richard has spent over 5 years observing, recording and photographing Little Owls of the county and tonight we will look at the life of this delightful bird and the threats that it faces. The field craft needed to observe and photograph will be discussed and there may be time to look at owls that are not so little! The Birstall Birdwatching Club was formed in 1978 with 12 members paying an annual fee of £1. Now meeting in Rothley after losing our Birstall venue our aim is to encourage people of all ages to enjoy wildlife but our main focus is birds. We have illustrated talks in the winter and outdoor visits in the summer. Membership is only £8 for the year and this gives free admission to all meetings. Visitors £2 per meeting with children free. Further details from Marion Vincent 0116 2375156.

Banff Mountain Film Festival

The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour offers audiences the opportunity to travel the world and experience a selection of inspirational, exhilarating and unforgettable adventures from the comfort of a theatre chair. Now in its seventh edition, the 2016 UK and Ireland Banff Tour will share a collection of exhilarating short films with more than 80 screenings in over 50 locations across two different film programmes in early 2016. The festival tour showcases a diverse collection of the newest and very best films from the global mountain culture and sports community. The two different film programmes, each of approximately two and a half hours in length, will be selected from over 350 films that have been entered into the prestigious 40th anniversary edition of the Banff Mountain Film Festival, held in the Canadian Rockies in November 2015. The Tour is much more than a series of incredible film nights. It brings together people with a wide range of outdoor passions who return every year to enjoy the community feel of a Banff screening and leave with new enthusiasm and inspiration for their own adventures. The popularity of the UK and Ireland leg of the Banff World Tour is quickly growing. In 2016, the Tour is expected to bring together more than 50,000 adventure lovers, celebrating the outdoors in unique venues right across the UK and Ireland. The World Tour travels the globe every year, visiting over 45 different countries and being enjoyed by more than 400,000 people worldwide. For a taste of the action, watch the 2015 trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSJOnw4QLx0 The tour will be in Leicester on Wednesday 3rd February at De Montfort Hall, Granville Road, Leicester LE1 7RU. Box Office: 0116 233 3111. The next closest screening will be on Saturday 5th March at Birmingham Town Hall, Victoria Square, Birmingham B3 3DQ. Box Office: 0121 345 0600. There will be matinee and evening programmes. For Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour tickets and information go to www.Banff-uk.com. January / February 2016

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What’s On

BIG Weekend of comedy comes to Loughborough

A special weekend of comedy is planned to take place in Loughborough as part of the annual Dave’s Leicester Comedy Festival 2016. The BIG Weekend will feature stars from TV and the UK comedy circuit, as well as talks, seminars and special unique events. The weekend takes place from 4th – 7th February and confirmed performers include Joel Dommett (as seen on ‘Russell Howard’s Good News’), George Egg (“a genius” Scotland on Sunday), Andrew O’Neill (as seen on Never Mind the Buzzcocks) and Jonny Awsum (BBC Radio 2). Further information and tickets are available from www.comedy-festival.co.uk The weekend programme will also feature unique performances including: Hotel D’Comedie - an evening at Holywell Guest House where the audience watch short performances in comedian’s bedrooms Comedy in a Car - the award winning comedian Tom Allen will take 4 members of the public on a tour, exploring the streets of Loughborough Peter’s Secret Tour - a special version of the hugely popular Secret Tour which has taken place in Leicester for the past 5 years. The audience are invited to 3 special comedy shows which will only be revealed on the night Over 12 shows and events will take place in venues including Echos nightclub, Holywell House Guest House, Loughborough College Arts Academy, Loughborough Community Library, The Swan in the Rushes and Loughborough Town Hall. The weekend is supported by these venues, Love Loughborough and Loughborough College. Peter Dickson, Loughborough College Head of Marketing said ‘We’re delighted to be a part of Dave’s Leicester Comedy Festival, hosting some great acts, including Andy Hollingworth, George Egg, and Jonny Awsum, at the new, £15-million Loughborough College Arts Academy. The Comedy Festival has always been a popular event and it’s great that it’s now being rolled out to venues across the county, ensuring even more people can get involved.” Lez Cope-Newman, Vice Chair of Love Loughborough and owner of Holywell Guest House said: “We are really pleased to be sponsoring The Big Weekend in Loughborough next year and hope this will become a key date in people’s calendars. With Loughborough being only 10 miles outside of Leicester, our town centre venues will make a great addition to the current line up planned for the Dave’s Leicester Comedy Festival 2016.” The main Dave’s Leicester Comedy Festival, which is the longest running comedy festival in Europe, runs from 3-21 February and features over 780 events in more than 60 venues. The full festival brochure is available by visiting www. comedy-festival.co.uk Festival founder and Director, Geoff Rowe, said “We are really excited about expanding the festival and developing The BIG Weekend in Loughborough. It’ll be a great opportunity to get a small taste of the main festival in local venues and we are looking forward to raising a laugh across the town.”

Workers’ Educational Association Birstall & Rothley Branch THE ART OF TROMPE-l’OEIL ‘Deceive the Eye’ This course is designed so that learners will learn perspective techniques. It concentrates on mural lay-out, multiple-point perspectives and ‘tips and tricks’. Topics include painting techniques for the foreground, middle and background, use of simple tools (e.g. levels, strings and projectors) to create ‘perceptively correct’ Italian floor tiles, arched doors, windows, columns and arches and much more! Learners will each complete a mural based upon elements such as vaults, rows of columns, fountains, etc, and will follow/embellish a basic design by tapping into their own creativity. Unleash your imagination and join this incredible course! No prior knowledge required, just a lively interest in practical and theoretical art. Tutor: Anna Michalska-Tomajer. Fee £86.65 or Free if you are in receipt of an income related benefit. Date: Monday 12.45 - 3pm, 10 meetings from Monday 11th January 2016. NOTE: Please phone to see if places available. Marion Vincent 0116 2375156.

BEHIND THE IRON CURTAIN - Life in Eastern Europe under Communism Aspects of life in the ‘Warsaw Pact’ countries, from the end of the Second World War until 1989. How particular characteristics, cultures and even different political systems combined to undermine the Soviet Union’s protective barrier against the West. Tutor: David Price. Fee £52.00 or Free if you are in receipt of an income related benefit. Date: Tuesday 10 - 11.30am, 9 meetings from Tuesday 12th January 2016.

COLOUR, LINE AND LIGHT-ART APPRECIATION Explore the different role of colour, line and light in the fascinating, often compelling, works by artists from JMW Turner to Roy Lichtenstein. No experience necessary-just a lively open-minded interest in art! Tutor Janis Baker Fee £53.90 or Free if you are in receipt of an income related benefit. Date: Wednesday 7.15 - 9.15pm, 7 meetings from Wednesday 13th January 2016.

Venue: The Rothley Centre, 12 Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley LE7 7PR Contact: Marion Vincent 0116 2375156 or send your enrolments to Brenda Sutherland, WEA Treasurer, 4 North Street, Rothley, Leicester LE7 7NN Please make cheques payable to WEA Birstall & Rothley Branch. Enrol online for all courses if space available at www. enrolonlinewea.org.uk/online. For further details see the website: www.birstallandrothleywea.org.uk January / February 2016

What’s On National Theatre Live present

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Loughboro

- Les Liaisons Dangereuses Thursday 28th January, 2016 - 7pm Josie Rourke directs this irresistible tale of seduction, intrigue and betrayal, with a cast including Michelle Dockery, Janet McTeer and Dominic West. www.charnwoodarts.com | Tel: 01509 822558 Cope Auditorium, Loughborough University, Epinal Way, Loughborough, Leics, LE11 3TU

WildlifeTrust –North West Group The Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust North West Group are a friendly local group which meets monthly for talks, visits, conservation work and social events. All talks are in the church hall of Ashby Methodist Chapel, Burton Road, Ashby and begin at 7:30pm, entry is £2 each. To find out more about our group please ring David Maltby on 01530 222934 or Margaret Mabey on 01530 412410. Their work parties are on Fridays from September to April at a variety of local reserves. Please ring David Maltby for details.

Friday 1st January, 2016. New Year’s Day walk at Bradgate Park Enjoy the delights of an historic setting, unique mammals and a wide range of flora. Meet at 1pm in main car park. N.B. Parking charge payable, car sharing suggested.

Friday 22nd January Michael Jeeves LRWT looks at the future for wildlife in Leicestershire. He will explore the challenges and opportunities presented by the Living Landscape Projects, HS2 and increasing pressure from development.

Friday 19th February 40 Years of twitching with David Scott. He shares the highs and lows of twitching in the UK which has resulted in his life list of 449 birds.

Whitwick & District U3A

Whitwick and District U3A will hold its first General Meeting of 2016 on Friday 15th January. Details of all our varied Interest Groups will be available, making this an ideal opportunity to follow through those New Year Resolutions to be more active and meet new people. The U3A offers friendship through learning and social activities to those no longer in full-time employment. Our speaker for January will be Paul Owen. Paul, from Roberts Coaches, will give a presentation on their programme of Cruises and European Holidays followed by a quiz. Pease come along to St David’s Church Hall, Broomleys, Coalville LE67 4RL at 1.45 for a 2.00pm start. Everyone is welcome. More details about Whitwick and District U3A can be found on our website: www.whitwicku3a.org.uk

Friday 8th January 2016

TALK: Birds without Borders Loughborough RSPB Local Group present a talk entitled Birds without Borders by Peter Holden. The talk is about migration - including some of the strategies of birds, animals and insects, helping to give a more complete overview of this fascinating subject. This is our 3rd lecture from Peter, who worked for the RSPB for over 40 years and has written many books - he was awarded an MBE in 2009 for services to Nature Conservation. The talk will be held in the Lecture Theatre at the Brockington Building Loughborough University at 7.45pm. Price: £3 Group Members, £3.50 Non members, LU Students with SU card gratis.

Monday 11th January 2016

WALK: Wildlife Walk at Groby Pool Loughborough RSPB Local Group have a Wildlife Walk Groby Pool at 10am until 12 noon. Meet at the car park SK524079, nearest postcode LE6 0FR

Sunday 7th February 2016

TRIP: Blacktoft Sands RSPB Reserve Loughborough RSPB Local Group invite you to join them on a coach trip to Blacktoft Sands RSPB Reserve in East Riding of Yorkshire. Depart from Loughborough University at 9.00 am, fare £20 plus admission to the reserves. Booking is essential for this trip.

Friday 12th February 2016

TALK: Great British Wildlife Loughborough RSPB Local Group present a talk entitled Great British Wildlife by Nigel Spencer. Nigel’s life-long interests of the outdoors, wildlife and wild places has led to extensive travels as a nature photographer. An Associate of the Royal Photographic Society, he gets great satisfaction from photographing our native species across Britain, and especially in the East Midlands.. The talk will be held in the Lecture Theatre at the Brockington Building Loughborough University at 7.45pm. Price: £3 Group Members, £3.50 Non members, LU Students with SU card gratis.

Tuesday 16th February 2016

WALK: Dimmingdale Nature Reserve Loughborough RSPB Local Group have a Wildlife Walk at Dimmingdale Nature Reserve at 10am until 12 noon. Meet at the car park – SK378220, nearest postcode LE65 1RR. Full details of all of the events including finding the venue, booking the trips etc can be found on the group’s website:

www.rspb.org.uk/groups/loughborough www.thebradgatemagazine.co.uk

Centre Stage presents...

The Origin of Species Friday 5th February, 2016 BUSCA is relieved to be able to share the good news that Charnwood communities can still enjoy Centre Stage professional shows ….just. It was touch and go after Leicestershire County Council pulled out of the scheme but Charnwood Borough decided that it was too valuable a scheme to drop. So make sure that you come along on Friday February 5th to enjoy The Origin of Species, a musical comedy by the Tangram Theatre Company hot from the Edinburgh Fringe. It has had rave reviews wherever it appears: “witty, clever, absurd, the jokes spring out at you when you least expect….grownups will love it. Kids will adore it. A gem”. It tells the incredible story of how Charles Darwin came to discover the secrets of evolution and why it took him over twenty years before he plucked up the courage to publish his remarkable ideas. It’s a show packed with big theories, terrible puns, brilliant physical comedy and six cracking original songs about everything from blasted boring barnacles to the perils of marrying your cousin; “science can rarely have been such fun”. The Origin of Species is on Friday February 5th starting at 7.30 in Humphrey Perkins Community Centre, Cotes Road, Barrow LE12 8JU. Tickets cost £9, concessions £8, children £5 and family £24. If you buy in advance, discounts bring this to £8, £7, £4 and £22. They can be obtained from The Paper Shop, Barrow, by contacting the Box Office on 07718153117 or judithrodgers155@gmail.com or by PayPal on the www.busca.org.uk website. Do bring the family along and enjoy it for yourselves. This is touring professional theatre at its best.

Quorn Grange Hotel Presents... FRIDAY NIGHT IS MUSIC NIGHT!! A spectacular night of live Songs from the shows. Friday 29th January 2016, 7:30 start. £35.00 per person. A welcome drink, fish based menu, choose from 3 starters, 3 main courses and 3 different desserts. If you join us for our special night we are offering a Room only rate of £22.50 a head.

The Sound of Music… Friday night is fondue night!! A spectacular night of live Songs. Friday 4th March 2016, 7:30 start. £35.00 per person. A Fondue based menu, choose from 3 starters, 10 ounces of sirloin steak or Vegetarean alternative cooked in a group at the table with French fries, salads and breads and 3 different desserts. If you join us for our special night we are offering a Room only rate of £22.50 a head. Quorn Grange Hotel, 84 Wood Lane, Quorn, Leics LE12 8DB | Tel: 01509 412167 | www,quorngrangehotel.co.uk

“A Winter's Night in Vienna” Saturday 16th January, 2016 A concert brought to Barrow by Charnwood Orchestra. Barrow’s Christmas wouldn’t be the same without this hugely popular seasonal event. Note down 16th January in your new diary to make sure you book seats in plenty of time. As usual the Viennese concert will be in Humphrey Perkins Community Centre, Cotes Road, Barrow, LE12 8JU starting at 7.00pm. We will do our best to get you into a festive mood with a free glass of bubbly or fruit juice and the hall decked with beautiful flower arrangements. Even the players will be sporting red carnations. The lights will dim and you will be enthralled with a medley of Viennese dances. Apart from the three favourite musthaves: Blue Danube Waltzes, Thunder and Lightning Polka and Radetsky March, we have yet again assembled a new programme including the Tik-Tak Polka and the Klipp Klapp Galop, both by Johann Strauss 2, the Neckerei Polka by Joseph Strauss (means teasing), the Gold and Silver Waltz by Lehar and Mit Dampf Polka by Eduard Strauss if we can get hold of an anvil! (you can guess what that means!). Tickets cost £14 (£12 concs) and £3 for accompanied children under 16. They are available from the Paper Shop, High Street, Barrow or by contacting the box office on 07718 153117 or judithrodgers155@gmail.com or via Paypal on www. charnwodorchestra.org.uk You have no need to go to Vienna to watch Lorin Maazel when you have this just down the road! Eat your heart out, Andre Rieu. January / February 2016

Leicester Sketch Club Art Exhibition Thursday 28th January - Saturday 19th March 2016 The Club is delighted to present its exhibition of original drawings and paintings at Sock Gallery. For over 100 years, Leicester Sketch Club has encouraged and inspired local artists through a 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. Meet the Artists and Art Demonstrations on Saturday 6th February 2016 – 10am - 1pm. A chance to meet LSC artists at work and pick up tips and tantalising techniques! It is also our exhibition Launch Day at 12 noon….. all welcome to join us. Free entry with refreshments available. Website: www.leicestersketchclub.co.uk Email: enquiries@leicestersketchclub.co.uk Sock Gallery, Loughborough Town Hall, Market Place, Loughborough, LE11 3EB. Opening Times: Monday - Saturday, 9am - 5pm.

Music of the Masters Thursday 4th, Friday 5th & Saturday 6th March Newtown Linford Choral Society’s next concert will be held at Ratby Parish Church. It will be performing ‘Baroque’ music, which describes a style of music composed from about 1650 to 1750. During this some of the greatest European composers were writing, such as Bach, Handel and Haydn, and their compositions are still regularly performed today at concert halls throughout the world.

The Choir will be accompanied by an accomplished Orchestra. This will feature the talented Mike Shaw and Karen Silverwood, who will also be playing the beautiful Bach Double Violin Concerto. The concert promises to be a very memorable event for Choir and audience alike. Tickets are priced at £10 (£5 for children) and are available from Ratby Post Office, Newtown Linford Village Stores, Peter/Iris Sayer 01530 243822, and any member of the Choir.

Fever! The life and loves of Peggy Lee Sarah Moule returns to Quorn Village Hall with her new show on

Saturday, February 27th 2016 Peggy Lee was one of the most iconic American singers of the 20th Century whose glamorous allure was matched by definitive recordings of classic songs like ‘Fever’, ‘The Folks that Live on a Hill’ and ‘Black Coffee’. Her style was at once purring and intense, thrilling her fans and influencing singing stars from Marilyn Monroe to Madonna. Sarah Moule came under Peggy Lee’s spell at a tender age when she heard Lee’s voice in Disney’s The Lady and the Tramp. In Fever! she looks at the turbulent and often troubled life behind Lee’s glamorous image. Lee was torn between two irreconcilable obsessions – to build a home life like the one she’d never had and her ambition to fulfil her dreams and become a star. She had both staggering success and crushing private disappointments, all of which fuelled her mesmerising performances over a career spanning six decades. Sarah’s velvet voice is the perfect vehicle to bring Peggy Lee’s signature songs and some hidden gems to audiences who grew up loving the seductive ice-queen and to introduce these wonderful songs to those new to Lee’s “electricblue voice”. Sarah is accompanied by internationally renowned pianist Simon Wallace. We’re going cabaret style for this show so do bring your own drinks and glasses. The show starts at 7.30pm (doors 7pm). For enquiries and tickets at £10 contact Terry Stirling tel: 01509 414287 or email: terrystirling@ntlworld.com “Cool, elegant, immaculate.” ***** The Observer “The excellent Sarah Moule... a fine voice and a great talent.” Russell Davies, BBC Radio 2 Centre Stage Rural Touring Theatre is promoted in Quorn by the Quorn Old School Trust and supported by Charnwood Borough Council and Arts Council England.

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January / February 2016

OUT AND ABOUT Monday 25th - Saturday 30th January 2016 CATS FRESH FROM THE RECENT WEST END REVIVAL A musical based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book Of Practical Cats this is one of the longest running musicals in Broadway and West End history. The Jellicle cats are celebrating at the Jellicle Ball, awaiting Old Deuteronomy’s choice of which cat will be reborn into a new life. One by one, the cats step forward to introduce themselves, auditioning for the chance to take the journey to the Heaviside Layer. Featuring breathtaking choreography, and a musical score that features the well known songs ‘The Rum Tum Tugger’, ‘Skimbleshanks, The Railway Cat’, ‘Mungojerrie & Rumpelteazer’ and of course the smash-hit ‘Memory’, this is one musical you won’t want to miss... Evening performances £15 | Saturday matinee tickets £13.50 Please call the society on 01509 502879 for ticket availability. Loughborough Town Hall, Market Place, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 3EB

PANTOMIME - ALADDIN

Saturday 02 - Sunday 10 January Aladdin flies into Loughborough for the most magical pantomime of them all! In the town of Nan-Pan-Tan-Pan-To trouble is brewing. Aladdin loves the beautiful princess So-Shy, but to win her heart and save the day he must battle wicked wizards, dangerous dragons and take a breath-taking magic carpet ride. The team behind last year’s sell-out, smash-hit Sleeping Beauty return with an all-new action-packed adventure for the whole family. With stunning sets, gorgeous costumes, oodles of noodles and a cave full of surprises, this spectacular show promises to be an un-missable festive treat for the whole family. Tickets: £15/£16, concs £13.50/£14.50 family tickets available Matinee 12:30pm, evening 4:30pm/7:00pm Loughborough Town Hall, Market Place, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 3EB | Box Office: (01509) 231914

Friday 01 January | GUIDED WALK - Quorn, Progression Walk Come and join the Ramblers to see in the New Year for a gentle ramble throughout Quorn. Everyone welcome. Remember to wear walking shoes or trainers and bring a bottle of water. Approx. 3 hours | 6 miles | FREE | Email: walks@fusion-lifestyle.com | Tel: 0116 2375267 | www.chanrwood-leisure.com Meet at 11am at Quorn Village Hall, LE12 8BB.

Sunday 03 January | Bosworth Battlefield Guided Walk A 2km guided walk exploring the battle of Bosworth, the death of King Richard III and the unlikely victory of Henry Tudor. £4.50 Adults. £3.25 Child. Family tickets available. 01455 290429. Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, Sutton Cheney, CV13 0AD.

Tuesday 05 January | Lizzie Cooper Band Jazz Night A popular evening of live jazz, covering well known favourites from Lizzie’s extensive repertoire, performed in the relaxed and intimate surroundings of the Sock Gallery. Lizzie has a warm and friendly performance style and, as well as the brilliantly talented regular musicians of Lizzie’s band, an invited guest performer joins each event, adding a different musical treat each time. 8pm | Loughborough Town Hall, Market Place, Loughborough, LE11 3EB | Tickets: £7

Thursday 07 January | GUIDED WALK: Newtown Linford Meet at Newtown Linford Church of England All Saints Church, LE6 0HD. Circular walk via Groby Pool. Remember to wear walking shoes or trainers and bring a bottle of water with you. Approx. 2 hrs 20 mins | 5 miles | FREE | walks@fusion-lifetsyle.com | Tel: 0116 2375267 | www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages/walkingforhealth

Friday 08 January | Dave’s Leicester Comedy Festival Preview Enjoy the show as they celebrate the festival’s 23rd birthday. The Preview Show features some of the best comedians around, giving a taste of what’s to come when the main festival rolls into town from 3 to 21 February. Full line up to be confirmed on De Montfort Hall & Dave’s Leicester Comedy Festival website. Previous acts have included Jimmy Carr, Jasper Carrot, Milton Jones, Micky Flanagan and Jenny Éclair. www.demontforthall.co.uk | www.comedy-festival.co.uk | 19:30 | Tickets: £18/£25, concs £15/£22 | Suitable for 16+ De Montfort Hall, Granville Road, Leicester LE1 7RU | Box Office: 0116 233 3111.

Wednesday 13 January | New Year, New You! Begin a Home Yoga Practice (short course) Give yourself a New Year gift of energy, vitality, suppleness, strength, calm and relaxation. Learn a yoga routine combining all of the above, that you can do every day by yourself. You’ll learn not only the what and the how, but also why you are doing each component, so the whole thing will make sense, and add to your motivation to do it. In this course you will thoroughly learn how to do invigorating and powerful yoga postures safely and mindfully. We will then put them together into a flowing, somatic sequence and add breathwork and autonomic relaxation. You will also learn how to easily, efficiently and enjoyably prepare your body to move before your yoga session and indeed, at the beginning of each day! Over the 6 weeks you will develop the confidence to do the warm up, sequence, breathwork and autonomic relaxation by yourself. 6 x 60 minute classes, From 13th Jan | Places are limited - booking essential | Weds 7:30pm Charnwood College, Loughborough, LE11 4SQ | £40 for the 6 week course

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LOCAL EVENTS Saturday 16 January | Philharmonia Orchestra Alongside The Queen of Harps Catrin Finch, this special concert showcases the talents of the Philharmonia’s Principal Flute, Samuel Coles in Mozart’s Concerto for Flute and Harp. In the second half, the Jupiter Symphony. This was to be Mozart’s last symphony and also his most complex and dazzling. Composed in his so called Olympian key of C Major, the music bursts into a world of trumpets, drums and sparkling melodies. 6.15-6.50pm Join Michael Collins, Catrin Finch and Samuel Coles for a free pre-concert talk in the DMH auditorium. Hosted by John Florance, find out more about today’s artists and delve into the background behind the music. www.demontforthall.co.uk | 19:30 | Tickets: £13 - £36, concs: £11 - £34, students and under 25s £5 | £3 transaction fee applies per purchase | De Montfort Hall, Granville Rd, Leicester LE1 7RU | Box Office: 0116 233 3111.

Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 January | Robin Hood Pantomime Join Robin Hood helped by his hapless friend Seth the serf and the dotty nurse Blodwyn as he fights to defeat the evil sheriff of Nottingham and his bumbling henchman Dodger in order to win the heart of Maid Marian. An action packed story, with comedy, song, dance and lots of audience participation. Tickets: adults £6, child £5, family £20 | 01283 216633 | Saturday 18:30, Sunday 17:30 | CONKERS, Rawdon Road (B586), Moira, Nr Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Derbyshire DE12 6GA.

Wednesday 20 January | SWITHLAND: Knitting Workshop with Betty Bolt Learn a new skill for 2016! Enjoy a fun evening and leave with a knitting kit containing all the tools and instructions you will need to make your own hat. Join our knitting workshop at Odd John’s Kitchen & Deli (in the grounds of The Griffin Inn, Swithland. No knitting ability required! Visit the website to book your place: www.bettybolt.co.uk or email: bettyshandknits@gmail.com. Price £35 (includes knitting kit and tea or coffee).

Thursday 21 January | Quorn Gardening Club The first meeting of the year and AGM followed by a talk by Ann Brown entitled “Plants and Gardens in the Falkland Islands.” The Club regularly meets every 3rd Thursday of the month at 7.30pm in the Quorn Church Rooms. Members enjoy a variety of topical talks and outings. New members and guests are always welcome. The fee for guests is £5.00. For more details call June on 0116 2304808 or Margaret on 01509 412848.

Thursday 21 January | Mighty Movers Physical activity sessions for 3-4 year olds in readiness for starting school, teaching them fundamental skills such as throwing, catching, balancing, team work, movement and co-ordination skills, through fun activities. Please note that there is a small charge of £1.00 per child for all of these sessions. If you bring two children along then we will charge you £1.50 and £2.00 for three or more children. Email: sport@charnwood.gov.uk | Tel: 01509 634673 | Rosebery St Peters Community Centre, Loughborough LE11 5EQ

Thursday 21 January | GUIDED WALK - Mountsorrel Health Walk Meet at the Sorrel Youth Café at 10.30, LE12 7AF. All are welcome, including buggies and wheelchairs; we will pick a route to suit. You are welcome to stop for a drink, snack and chat after. Approx. 1 hour | 1.5 - 3 miles | FREE | Email: walks@fusion-lifestyle.com | Tel: 0116 2375267 | www.charnwood-leisure.com

Monday 25 January | Quorn Circle Dance Group Discover the benefits of gentle exercise through dancing simple steps to music from around the world. We dance traditional village dances and more recent choreographies in a circle or spiral. Each dance is taught from scratch with plenty of repetition in a supportive environment. Everyone is equal in the circle. Wear loose comfortable clothing and flat shoes. Cost per session £4. 2.15 - 3.45pm | Quorn Village Hall, Leicester Rd, Loughborough LE12 8BB

Friday 29 January | Stipe (REM Tribute) At The Musician Stipe recreate the alt-rock, awesomeness of R.E.M.. As regular visitors to the festival scene, leading venues and with gigs into Europe, Stipe earned the praise of “Awesome” from R.E.M.’s own lead singer Michael Stipe. This is the definitive tribute to one of the biggest bands in music history. They have performed the songs of R.E.M. to thousands of people worldwide. R.E.M. built a towering back catalogue that reached from the addictive highs of Shiny Happy People down to the reflective darkness of Everybody Hurts, covering all else in between. www.themusicianpub.co.uk | The Musician Venue & Bar, Clyde Street, Leicester, LE1 2DE | Tel: 0116 251 0080

Friday 29 - Sunday 31 January | The GCR Winter Steam Gala The GCR Winter Steam Gala will take place over three days from Friday 29 to Sunday 31 January. Headlining the event are guest locomotives ‘Sir Keith Park’ No. 34053 and ‘U’ class No. 31806. Also expected are a further 6 locos from GCR’s home fleet - there will be 8 locos altogether in steam on Saturday and Sunday (5 on Friday). Expect to see freight trains, travelling post office demos, double headers and thrill to a really intensive timetable! Over the weekend, we’ll be having a range of real ales on offer. These will be served at the restored Tin Shed in Quorn yard. A list of the beers and ciders will appear closer to the event. For ticket prices and to book see the website: www.gcrailway.co.uk | Parking: Loughborough: LE11 1RW, Quorn: LE12 8AG (inc. disabled parking), Rothley: LE7 7LD, Leicester North: LE4 3BR | Great Central Railway, Great Central Road, Loughborough, LE11 1RW | Tel: 01509 632323 | Email: sales@gcrailway.co.uk January / February 2016

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CLASSICAL “GREATS” FROM THE LOUGHBOROUGH ORCHESTRA For their forthcoming winter concert, the Loughborough Orchestra will be playing music which is high on the classical “Hit List”. The Elgar Cello Concerto is a highly regarded cornerstone of the cello repertoire and its performance by Will Robertson, pictured here, promises to be a treat for the audience. Will was one of the talented pupils to attend Chetham’s music school before gaining a place to study at the Royal Academy of Music. The cello that he will be playing is on loan from the Royal Academy and allows his beautiful playing to sing above the orchestra! Will has performed widely in this country and has also travelled as far as Singapore to tour with a Chamber Orchestra. Will is looking forward to playing this famous Concerto with the orchestra. To introduce the concert will be the melodies of the Karelia Suite by Jean Sibelius. This is a piece which is condensed from “Karelia Music” that Sibelius was commissioned to write. It is based on Finnish folk music and although it was written early in his career, it has a commonality with the nationalistic nature of much of his later compositions. Sibelius became known as Finland’s national composer. And last, but by no means least, is Tchaikovsky’s Sixth Symphony. This last of the Tchaikovsky symphonies was probably his favourite and is full of lush melodies. There are strident tunes which grab attention and follow on from teasing, enigmatic rhythms passing between instruments. Other enchanting moments are better heard and felt than described! This “must hear” programme is at Trinity Methodist Church Centre, Royland Road, Loughborough on January 23rd at 7.30pm. Tickets are available via the website www.loughboroughorchestra.org.uk or from members of the orchestra.

www.loughboroughorchestra.org.uk

January / February 2016

THE BRADGATE DIRECTORY

CLOTHING, SHOES & JEWELLERY Bradgate Brides.............................. 31 Caroline James............................... 33 MB Sign Design............................... 54 EDUCATION & CHILDCARE Dixie Grammar School...................... 7 Faces Arts....................................... 18 Grace Dieu Manor School................. 3 Magical Maths Club........................ 47 Reusable Nappies........................... 42 Woodhouse Day Nursery................ 42 FLORISTS & GIFTS Holywell Petals............................... 30 Lily & Grace Florists........................ 30 FOOD, DRINK & VENUES All Things Sweet............................. 29 The Bay Leaf................................... 18 Beaumanor Hall.............................. 28 Chapter One................................... 42 The Deli at 58................................. 47 George Inn...................................... 34 The Manor House........................... 27 Quorn Grange Hotel....................... 25 Vintage Teas................................... 24 Woodcock Farm Shop..................... 24 GARDEN Belvoir Sawmill & Forest Products.... 51 Bradgate Estate Management........ 50 Delegate Services............................. 6 Garden Blueprints............................ 6 H20 Design..................................... 20 Harrison Landscaping..................... 38 LB Grounds Maintenance............... 50 LB Landscaping............................... 21 Outdoor Solutions............................ 6 Total Tree Services.......................... 20

HAIR & BEAUTY Aqua Hair........................................ 32 Colours Hair & Nails Ltd.................. 28 Mill Salon........................................ 29 Seasons Beauty Day Spa................. 29 Zoe’s Mobile Hairdressing............. .47 HEALTH Charnwood Hearing Centre............ 53 Charnwood Physiotherapy............. 53 Denture Convenience..................... 47 HOME Ablutions........................................ 39 Absolute Window Solutions............. 2 Ancient & Modern............................ 6 Ashby Decorators Centre.................. 8 Broughtons....................................... 3 Charn. Oaks Roofing & Building...... 50 Chris’ Oven Cleaning........................ 6 Clock Doctor..................................... 6 Coopers Glass................................. 18 CV Lane............................................. 4 Daniel Chapman............................... 6 DeVol...................................... 14 + 15 DG Plumbing................................... 53 DP Furnishings................................ 30 The Flooring & Bed Company......... 11 G & D Property Services................. 20 Glenfield Electrical............................ 6 Graham Botterill............................... 6 Hassall & Son Ltd............................ 51 Holme Tree Kitchens....................... 35 Jacqueline Reynolds - Curtains....... 24 Just Frames..................................... 53 Keller Construction........................... 5 Light House....................................... 4 Logburners Ltd.................................. 3 Martin Allen Flooring....................... 5

HOME continued... MDW Fireplaces............................. 34 Oakham Oriental Rugs...................... 5 RJ Rowley........................................ 24 RSJ Roofing....................................... 4 SB Planning..................................... 24 Shuttleworth Decorators................ 21 Simon Shuttlewood Upholstery...... 53 Splashout........................................ 55 UK Gas Services................................ 8 Wreake Valley Flooring................... 38 JOB OPPORTUNITIES Bosworth Homecare....................... 47 LEISURE Bentley’s Fireworks........................ 32 George’s Music Tuition................... 53 Villair.............................................. 18 MOTORS Cropston Garage............................. 53 Premier Airport Taxis...................... 25 PETS Anstey Cattery................................ 47 Glebe Von Wood............................ 47 Retreat Boarding Kennels............... 47 The Veterinary Surgery................... 47 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Computer Angel............................. 54 CP Accountants................................. 3 Dodds Solicitors LLP........................ 34 Lee Cooper Funeral Directors......... 25 Leics Registration Services.............. 31 Prusinski Solicitors.......................... 54 Roy Green Estate Agents................ 56

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January / February 2016

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January / February 2016