The Bradgate Magazine - May 2023

B RADGATE

Celebrating Get Set Go

The CoronaTion in the Borough In Bloom with the NATIONAL GARDEN SCEME

with Joe’s Jog

G REETINGS

Welcome all to the May/June edition of The Bradgate Magazine!

With summer soon to be upon us (officially June 1st) longer days definitely means that getting out and about is a must and we’re delighted to bring you news of events, occasions and some absolute definites to mark your diaries with.

Take June 11th as a starter for 10 thanks to Loughborough based charity Alex’s Wish who host a fundraising Family Fun and Supercars Day - think Lamborghinis and Aston Martins, a beer tent, cocktails, stone-fired wood pizzas and ice cream (and a load more to boot) and you won’t go far wrong - all set in the beautiful grounds of Whatton House. Lovely!

T’is the season too for Open Gardens – Thurcaston & Cropston Gardening Club are ever present with their local provisions (June 24th-25th), whilst The National Garden Scheme is offering up a fab 20 gardens to visit, across an array of dates and locations, from Hedgehog Hall, Tilton on the Hill to Mountain Ash in Newtown Linford (and everything conceivable in between). With fundraising efforts concentrated on The Air Ambulance Service and a raft of nursing and cancer charities respectively what’s not to like.

...and to conclude my ditty for this edition...for those that enjoy their talks the hot (May 19th) ticket in town is for an evening with Graham Short - the celebrated micro-artist is famous for such mind boggling feats as engraving the words ‘Nothing is Impossible’ along the cutting edge of a traditional razor blade!! Raising funds for Rainbows Childrens Hospice this charismatic talk, littered with tales about the celebrities Graham has met and worked with, will enthral all.

For now however, pop the kettle on and do enjoy the read!

editor

July/August 2023 edition copy deadline: 2nd June 2023

To advertise contact the editor for prices, details and deadlines

editor@thebradgatemagazine.co.uk or 07708 915779

www.thebradgatemagazine.co.uk

News, reviews, competitions, events and must-see things to do and hear - add to that the fantastic range of services and products available from our advertisers and you have a publication that puts you, our reader, “at the heart of your community” - just as we have always proudly done, since 2013.

“I wonder what it would be like to live in a world where it was always June” – L.M. Montgomery

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Leicestershire Charity to Celebrate 20th Anniversary with New £1 million Fundraising Initiative

Hope Against Cancer, which was founded in 2003, is kicking off its 20th anniversary year with a commitment to providing a minimum of £1m in additional funding for local research and treatment over the next five years. As part of this, the team are also launching a fundraising initiative to get both local businesses and the general public involved in supporting and celebrating the charity throughout 2023.

With a focus on beating the disease, rather than managing its consequences, Hope Against Cancer is Leicestershire and Rutland’s local cancer research charity. In its 20 years, the charity has funded over 100 research projects and in 2012, opened the Hope Cancer Trials Centre, which has seen over 30,000 attendances since launch and is where the people of Leicestershire and Rutland can receive the most advanced therapies and techniques.

The charity receives no governmental funding, meaning every penny is raised and invested locally. Since its foundation in 2003, the small but mighty Hope Against Cancer team has raised £8m directly, with successful projects going on to attract many millions more in further funding from external sources. A minimum of £1m of additional funding has also been committed over the next five years – a decision made by the board of trustees at the start of 2023, as part of the 20th anniversary initiatives.

Another key aim for Hope Against Cancer this year is to raise awareness of the charity and the pioneering work it supports in the development of life-enhancing and life-saving cancer

treatment therapies and techniques. Part of this awareness drive will see the team encouraging local businesses and individuals to take part in the “20in23 Challenge”, kicking off with the “Trail of Hope Weekend” on the 9th – 11th June 2023.

Hope Against Cancer’s Chief Executive, Nigel Rose, comments: “I am very proud to be part of the Hope Against Cancer team and to be celebrating 20 years of incredible achievements. To see first-hand the impact our charity has had, and continues to have, on so many lives is the reason we all keep going – we do the fighting so that our patients can do more living.

“I’m very much looking forward to the “20in23 Challenge” coming to life and seeing how creative people can be when it comes to their challenges! Whether its walking 20 laps of your local park or baking 20 cakes to sell, every penny raised, and every challenge completed – no matter how big or small – will help to spread awareness of Hope and our ongoing work and commitment.”

To find out more about the “20in23 Challenge” and the “Trail of Hope Weekend”, please visit www.hopeagainstcancer.org. uk/20in23

Further updates on how to get involved, as well as activities taking place across the Trail of Hope Weekend, will be announced soon – follow Hope Against Cancer on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date with the latest news.

Facebook: @HopeAgnstCancer

Instagram: @HopeAgainstCancer

The Baldwin Trust Celebrating 40 Years!

The Baldwin Trust was set up in 1983 to provide respite for patients on the Baldwin ward at the former Leicester Frith Hospital; 40 years later the Trust is still going strong, providing crewed narrowboat cruises for community, friends and family groups in their fully wheelchair accessible boats.

Almost 70 volunteers got together for an evening of fun at the Beedles Lake Golf Club to launch the anniversary celebrations – rope throwing, line dancing and a quiz were all part of the evening’s entertainment.

The volunteers were addressed by Richard Jayes, acting Chair, who reminded all of the very important role they play:

“Without our volunteers we would not be able to provide so many trips to such a wide variety of organisations; from Ukrainian refugees to groups of children with additional needs; so many members of our community benefit from time on the water.”

The Baldwin Trust welcomes new volunteers of all backgrounds, skills and abilities and in its 40th anniversary year, the Trust is looking to increase its volunteer numbers from 70 to 100, or more as demand for the Trust’s service is high, with many members of the community looking to benefit from time on the tranquil waters of the local river and canal system.

There are a range of volunteer opportunities available across all aspects of the Charity, from crewing or skippering the boats, to management and Trustee roles – if you have an interest in the waterways, would like to spend time outside, want to meet new people or simply learn new skills, then we would love to hear from you. Please visit www.thebaldwintrust.co.uk or email us at secretary@ baldwintrust.co.uk for more details.

Dementia Support in Anstey

Bringing together people living with dementia, their carers, families and friendstoprovidesupportinarelaxed and friendly environment.

Come along and join us at our weekly ‘Remember Me Cafe’. We are a supportive group, providing information and advice, with fun and engaging activities for all. Refreshments provided.

Location: Jubilee Village Hall, Stadon Road, Anstey, LE7 7AY.

Date: Every Tuesday 1:30pm - 3:30pm Every Thursday 2pm - 4pm

To book a place or for further information please email: leicestershiredementiasupport@royalvoluntaryservice. org.uk

or telephone: 07815 515227 or 07815 462007

LEICESTER ASSOCIATION

Just before the Covid pandemic the National Trust completed a 30 year internal restoration programme at Kedleston Hall near Derby. The Hall was built in 1760 for Lord Scarsdale and the architect was Robert Adam who not only designed the interiors of the hall but also all of the furniture within it.

Once the house was built the Scarsdale’s lived well but did not have enough extra capital to carry out any alterations to the house. Kedleston is therefore the most important and least altered 18th century show-palace in Britain.

The main building is basically a “Temple of the Arts” which was never intended to be a family home but was a lavish entertaining space purely to show off wealth, political standing and taste. The family lived in a spacious attached wing with a second wing housing the kitchen, servants quarters and other offices.

Whilst the “State Floor” had remained structurally unaltered and the rooms had retained almost all of their original treasures they had been redecorated over time; use and exposure from exposure had also led to some damage of furniture, delicate fabrics and works of art.

Since the mid 1980’s the National Trust has lovingly worked on restoring the rooms to Robert Adam’s original vision. Using the very latest conservation techniques each room has been returned to its 18th century ‘bling’. Original paint schemes have been reintroduced, new damask hung on the walls and precious gilt furniture and works of art have been restored. The final room to be restored was the State Apartment which contains a magnificent State Bed.

Unusually tours of the Hall are nothing new at Kedleston. Between 1766 and 1809 the housekeeper to the Curzon family showed selected visitors around the state floor on a regular basis. Indeed the visits were so popular that in 1769 a 28 page guidebook was published that covered the 18 main rooms. The National Trust owns an original copy which contains additional handwritten notes by the housekeeper.

Kedleston Hall has all of the usual visitor facilities and is open every Thursday to Tuesday, 11am to 4pm, until 29th October. There is also 332 hectares of parkland to explore.

The National Trust Leicester Association has now moved on to its summer programme of outings, visits and social events. Meetings with a speaker will re-commence in September.

For details of the NT Leicester Association please visit our web site at www.leicesternt.com or call 0116 2229133

Alan Tyler | Publicity Officer NT Leicester Association

An aerial view of Kedleston Hall and grounds | © National Trust Images/John Miller

Fun with

THURCASTON

Year to Date Report:

We began the New Year with a Resolution to earn the Zero Waste badge by learning about the 4 R’s - Repair, Recycle, Reuse and Reduce. A natural recycling example that we studied was the action of worms in processing dead leaves and returning nutrients to the soil. We reused clear plastic bottles and put some leaves and layered compost, sand and wood shavings inside them before adding some worms - we learnt that worms are hermaphrodite, (having both male and female parts) and with this the Brownies enjoyed coming up with names for the worms which could be both boy’s and girl’s names, such as Robin and Frankie - we then covered the outside of the bottles with black plastic to simulate the darkness of soil and left these cultivated wormeries for several weeks before removing the coverings to find that the worms had brilliantly mixed the differing layers as part of its task to recycle the dead leaf litter.

Onwards from here we set up our own Repair Shop, concentrating at first on sewing, glueing and stapling, before progressing to using saws, screwdrivers, hammer and nails. Vicki, our Commissioner visited to present Snowy Owl (me) with a thirty years service badge and was thenon hand to help when we were a leader short (Covid) for our ‘Reuse’ session. Barn Owl showed us how to cut pretty pictures from old birthday cards and magazines and stick them on white, plastic bottles to make lovely containers for pencils etc,

We all needed to learn about Reduce, and so we focused on reducing the amount of water we use and indeed waste and to be aware of what we can and cannot put down the drains, for example wet wipes are a definite no. We learned a lot about cleaning our water when Brown Owl brought in fake

pooh which is really Weetabix and gravy powder baked into the appropriate shape!

February 22nd for the Guide and Scout movement is “Thinking Day” - the joint birthday of Lord and Lady Baden Powell. This date fell in half term but we celebrated with our candle ceremony on March 1st, St David’s Day, so we also included a Welsh theme and heard how Lloyd-George persuaded the Welsh to change the emblem for Wales.

On International Women’s Day we heard about the teenager Malala Yousafzai, killed by the Taliban for campaigning for girl’s education; the environmental activist, Greta Thunberg, also strongly featured in our work.

For Mother’s day the Brownies made a plaque and painted bees and flowers made by Pat from modelling clay. More art work was produced as the Brownies coloured in the patterns on printed Easter Eggs whilst Katelynn, our D of E volunteer, helped us put together an Easter display for the church.

For our final meeting we kept our fingers crossed for good weather as we climbed up to Old John. The week before we had wrapped hard boiled eggs and now it was time to roll them down the hill and hope they did not crack. Prizes for the winners were on offer, alongside a small chocolate egg for everyone.

Snowy Owl.

We meet from 6pm-7.15pm on Wednesday evenings during term time at All Saints Church (the Harrison room) on Anstey Lane, Thurcaston. Girls must be age 7 to start. Details available from Brown Owl (07711 422350 but please avoid work hours).

EAST MIDLANDERS VOTE: NO MORE LARGE ANIMALS IN ZOOS

POLL REVEALS 75% OF EAST MIDLANDERS BELIEVE THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD END KEEPING LARGE ANIMALS IN ZOOS.

That’s just one of the urgent, inescapable messages sent by UK citizens to politicians of all persuasions as highlighted in research commissioned by international wildlife charity Born Free. At least 88% of those polled by Opinion Matters in the East Midlands believe it to be very or quite important for the next government to include commitments to improving wild animal welfare, tackling wildlife crime and improving wildlife protection in their manifestos.

Will Travers OBE, Born Free Co-Founder commented: “The British public has consistently called on parliamentarians to improve animal welfare and to take the measures necessary to restore our depleted fauna and flora and protect the diverse habitats on which they depend. Yet the conservation and welfare of our native wildlife remains an afterthought. This has to change.”

Key among the findings was that 75% of those surveyed in the East Midlands believe it is very or quite important the next UK government phase-out the keeping of large animals, such as elephants, lions, tigers, giraffe and rhino, in zoos, wildlife parks and other captive facilities. Poll results also suggest respondents in the East Midlands want transparent and robust assurances their money is spent in ways that reflect their values and a lasting commitment to the preservation of the natural world. A resounding 91% declared it very or quite important that the next UK government stops using public money for activities which damage nature and wildlife or cause animal welfare harms as part of its manifesto.

Other significant findings further highlight the strength of feeling among East Midland voters:

• 84% of East Midland respondents agreed the next UK government should introduce a ban on British hunters bringing ‘trophies’ of endangered or vulnerable animals into Britain

• 76% of East Midland respondents agreed the next UK government should tighten the rules on the trade and keeping of exotic pets

• 82% of East Midland respondents agreed the next UK government should use its influence, via trade deals etc, to bring an end to overseas activities that involve animal cruelty such as the slaughter of dolphins in the Faroes

The message is clear. From trophy hunting to the use of traps and snares, from the destruction of native flora and fauna to the keeping of wild animals in zoos and private homes, the welfare of wild animals and the protection of our natural environment have been constantly pushed down the political agenda, and the British public have seemingly had enough!

Dr Mark Jones, Born Free’s Head of Policy added, “Practices in the UK such as trail hunting, the appropriation of huge tracts of land for the shooting of game birds and hares for sport, and the culling of badgers, result in animal destruction and suffering on a massive scale. Wild animals are traded and kept in zoos and private homes in ever-increasing numbers and wildlife crime continues to have devastating impacts on individual animals, wildlife habitats, and our wider societies. Far too little is being done to effectively protect and restore our natural fauna and flora or safeguard the welfare of wild animals.”

To learn more about the Born Free Foundation’s work, and how you can help become an advocate for wildlife protection visit www. bornfree.org.uk/about-us.

Giraffe photo © Britta Jaschinski for Born Free

Zebra photo © Born Free

Newtown Linford Gardening Club

Our most recent speaker was Don Witton from (near) Sheffield, a retired schoolteacher who has become a horticulturalist of some note. He holds the national collection of euphorbias on a large allotment near his home and he grows them along with many other flowering plants which he sells to local people and to gardening clubs where he delivers his talks.

His talk was about spring flowering perennials and euphorbias which flower from now until the end of June. To assist us, he distributed a list of the plants he would feature in his talk, so we could make notes and then visit his stall to buy them for our gardens. He also showed us which plants would be at their best during the different months of spring, so we could consider our planting strategy to ensure a continual display of colour.

Some of the plants he suggested were well-known ones which many of us would already be growing in our gardens such as hellebores, geums, lupins, geraniums and oriental poppies. However he did introduce us to some more unusual ones, which would enhance our traditional borders.

In April, he suggested erythroniums, trilliums and epimediums, all of which come in a wide range of colours depending on the variety you choose.

In May, of particular beauty was corydalis ‘Tory MP,’ which is a striking blue (pictured) but which he found difficult to grow, perhaps because of its name! It also sold well in some areas of the country but not at all in others. He also recommended polemoniums and erodiums. June brought some fresh varieties including campanula glomerata, many beautiful peonies, a blue mecanopsis and astrantias.

Don could not resist spending some time on his main passion euphorbias, he did, however, warn us to take care when handling these plants. The sap contains a potent irritant, which, if it gets onto skin can cause quite a lot of pain. He recommends euphorbias always be handled wearing gloves.

Our May speaker is Justin Harrison who will be showing us a wide variety of plants which will be at their best during the summer months (attendees will also have the opportunity to buy a selection).

After that, we will embark on our traditional summer activities visiting gardens of interest, both local and further afield and holding our Summer Garden Party.

More details of our club can be found by visiting www.newtownlinford.org.uk/gardening-club or by contacting us on 01530 242 452

Anne and David Couling

Bradgate Sewing Circle Open Morning

Bradgate Sewing Circle consists of a group of Ladies who meet at The Rothley Centre each Tuesday from 9.30am to 11.30am to sew, knit, cross stitch, embroider and socialise over a cup of coffee and biscuits. Formed some 36 years ago we were predominantly a quilting group but numbers have dwindled over the past three years due to Covid and we would welcome new members to come along and bring their crafts.

We are a friendly group and you will find us willing to help each other with their work.

We are holding an OPEN MORNING on Tuesday 16th May from 10am to 12 noon at the Rothley Centre, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley, LE7 7PR and invite you to come along and join us for a coffee or tea to see what we do.

10th Anniversary opening of Mountain Ash

Come and visit Mike and Liz Newcombe’s ‘Mountain Ash’ garden, situated halfway along Ulverscroft Lane between Newtown Linford and Ulverscroft, which will be open to the public both on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th May from 11.00am to 5.00pm.

Whilst you’re enjoying this mid-May weekend and recovering from the King’s coronation the week before, please come and stroll round the garden at ‘Mountain Ash’ and help raise money for the National Garden Scheme’s nursing charities.

This beautiful 2-acre garden has excellent views across a wide area of Charnwood countryside. Near the house are patios, a water feature, flower and shrub beds, a fruit cage, fruit trees, greenhouses and vegetable plots. Lawns slope down to a large wildlife pond with a waterfall, a gravel garden and three small areas of woodland with pleasant walks through many species of trees. The lower two thirds of the garden have been created since 2004, with over 200 conifers and deciduous trees planted. There are several places to sit and relax around the garden. Adding further interest, for all ages, there are also about 50 garden ornaments and statues around the garden to spot.

There will be stalls to browse and tea and cake to be enjoyed. Toilet facilities are available with exterior access from the garden. Admission for adults is £6, children are free and dogs on leads are welcome. Pre-booking is not required and tickets will be available online from the National Garden Scheme website (www.ngs.org.uk) or can be bought at the gate.

The full address is ‘Mountain Ash’, 140 Ulverscroft Lane, Newtown Linford, LE6 0AJ. Parking is available on the lane.

For further details and photographs of the garden, see the NGS website (enter Mountain Ash into the garden finder).

Thurcaston and Cropston Open Gardens

Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th June 2023, 2pm - 6pm

The Coronation just a memory? The flags, bunting and picnic baskets returned to the back of the cupboard? Feeling in need of a weekend pick me up? Luckily for you Open Gardens is returning just in time.

Whatever the weather, gardeners in Thurcaston and Cropston will be throwing open their garden gates, pulling out the odd weed or two, topping up the pond and coaxing their most reluctant blooms into action. All for your delight.

Spend Saturday and Sunday afternoons sharing the trials, challenges and triumphs of local gardens; meet the enthusiastic gardeners who are opening their gardens for your pleasure. Come and chat, wander through paths and over lawns, seek inspiration and ideas or simply relax and enjoy the hidden treasures behind the garden gates.

For more than ten years gardeners in Thurcaston and Cropston have opened their gardens on the last weekend in June. Your £5 entrance fee will go straight to support The Air Ambulance Service - what tremendous value, £5 for two afternoon’s entertainment and interest!

Some gardens will have refreshments to offer; cake, books, and plants to buy; all supporting a range of charitable interests.

Come and join us, all are very welcome.

For more information please visit our website www.tcog.org. uk or contact Linda on 0116 2363872 or email linda@tcog. org.uk

Splashout – Inspired Bathrooms and Kitchens

At Splashout we offer a complete bathroom and kitchen design and installation service.

We are a small family run business with a reputation and experience that spans over 35 years. Our fitters are all employed directly by Splashout so continuity, both during and after installation, is assured. Skilled fitters will provide all services required during your project including, joinery, tiling, plumbing and building work. Other services including electrics, plastering and decorating are all available through our reliable contacts. We will project manage the installation to ensure trades are available when required ensuring a smooth progression – we are in essence “a one stop shop”!

As part of our trusted service we will visit your home and create a quote and a suggested plan for your kitchen or bathroom – this is free and with no obligation. You will then be invited to our large showroom in Coalville, with parking available, to develop and enhance your design. We have a selection of reputable high quality suppliers to suit all budgets and styles - from traditional to sleek, stylish and modern - it’s all possible at Splashout!

We pride ourselves on offering the best customer service and no project is too small or large. To arrange a free, no obligation quotation for your bathroom or kitchen call 01530 811593 or email sue@splashout.co.uk today.

Loughborough Coronation Trail

BID Loughborough are marking the King’s Coronation by running a Coronation themed window display trail on the LoyalFree app for the public to enjoy over the celebratory period.

Everyone is invited to join in on this free trail that will run until 8th May. Participating businesses will decorate their shop windows with a Coronation, King or Royal theme in the hope of getting your best in show vote!

All you will need to do is open the LoyalFree app (or if you don’t already have it you can download it at www.loyalfree.co.uk/download), head to the trail section and follow the map to find the businesses that are taking part. Each window will have it’s own QR code to scan and you can then vote for your favourite.

Lisa Brown BID Manager said: “Businesses have been keen to mark this special event and we hope everyone enjoys the trail. This is a great free activity to enjoy whilst running your errands in town, carrying out some shopping or getting something to eat and drink.”

In addition to this, to mark this celebration and bring the town together, Love Loughborough will also be offering free King’s Coronation window decals to all businesses in the BID area, a nice gesture to unite the businesses in town across the course of this celebratory event.

On your marks, get set and be ready to go for the 8th

Families and young children are once again invited to join a charity mile-long fun run to support the work of the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust (JHMT).

Joe’s Jog, now in its 8th year, will take place before the Mattioli Woods Rothley 10k running event which takes place in Rothley village on Tuesday 6th June at 6.15pm.

The inclusive and family-friendly fun run gives families and children aged seven and over the chance to be part of the Rothley 10k event, it also raises awareness of the vital work of the JHMT. Joe was 14 when he collapsed and died suddenly while out jogging near his Rothley home in October 2012. He was a victim of SADS – sudden arrhythmic death syndrome – an inherited heart condition which can strike anyone at any time, particularly otherwise fit and healthy young people under 35 years of age.

Since Joe’s death, his family and friends have worked tirelessly to raise awareness of SADS and sudden heart deaths. They set up the JHMT to provide free CPR training, help fund community defibrillators and campaign for better understanding of SADS. The charity also runs the Inspire Awards, a small grants scheme that helps inspiring young people to fulfil their potential.

Steve Humphries, chair of the JHMT, said: “It was really uplifting to see so many people of all ages and abilities turn out on mass last year when Joe’s Jog returned following the Covid pandemic. We are really looking forward to another great turn out on Tuesday 6th June.

“The event is perfect for everyone, from babies in buggies, to mums and dads and carers taking part with their children

and friends. It’s also good to see the fun run is so popular with local scouts and guides’ groups, junior sports clubs and schools. You can run, walk or jog but most importantly we hope everyone just enjoys taking part! This event brings people together in memory of Joe and helps to raise vital funds for JHMT’s ongoing work to reduce the incidence of sudden arrhythmic death syndrome (SADS) in young people.

“We are also delighted that another dear friend and supporter of JHMT, Anthony Rowe, the former Leicester Riders player now Sky Sports commentator has accepted an invitation to come along and start the fun run this year.”

The event will start at 6.15pm in Woodgate in Rothley. Advance entry costs £5 for adults and £4 for children. On-the-day entry costs £10 for adults and £6 for children.

The run is open to people of all ages and abilities, though juniors running without parental supervision need to be at least seven years old. Families are also welcome to run or walk the course with smaller children in buggies.

All funds raised from Joe’s Jog will go towards JHMT’s vital work to create a heart safe community for all.

To take part in Joe’s Jog, enter online at jhmt.org.uk/joes-jog

To find out more about the Trust’s work, get involved as a volunteer, learn how to apply for the Inspire Awards or for details on CPR training for sports clubs, visit www.jhmt.org.uk

More information about the Mattioli Woods Rothley 10k is available at www.rothley10k.com

Coronation of The King

On Saturday 6th May the Coronation of King Charles, and The Queen Consort Camilla will take place at Westminster Abbey - the same location as Her Late Majesty The Queen, 70 years ago.

The Service will be conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury and will reflect the Monarch’s role today and look towards the future, while being rooted in long-standing traditions and pageantry.

Their Majesties will arrive at Westminster Abbey in procession from Buckingham Palace, known as ‘The King’s Procession’.

After the Service, Their Majesties will return to Buckingham Palace in a larger ceremonial procession, known as ‘The Coronation Procession’. At Buckingham Palace, The King and The Queen Consort, accompanied by Members of the Royal Family, will appear on the balcony to conclude the day’s ceremonial events.

More than 30 UK locations will host big screens to show the Coronation meaning thousands of people have the opportunity to come together at public screenings to celebrate this historic moment, Leicester’s local public screening will be held at DeMontfort University.

An extra bank holiday will take place across the UK on Monday May 8th.

Coronation Celebrations

The Coronation will be marked by a multitude of community events, including tens of thousands of ‘Coronation Big Lunches’ - these events bring neighbours and communities together to share friendship, food and fun; to find out how you can get involved or find your closest lunch head to www.coronationbiglunch.com

Charnwood Borough Council is also helping to publicise events taking place across the borough over the coronation weekend by listing them on its website at www.charnwood.gov.uk/coronation_events.

Chris Grace, head of economic development and regeneration at Charnwood Borough Council, said: “The coronation of King Charles III will be a significant date in British history, and it is tremendous that so many people across Charnwood are hosting and attending local events as part of national celebrations.

“The people of Charnwood do a superb job of looking out for each other, supporting great causes and The Coronation weekend will no doubt be another great example of the borough demonstrating its excellent sense of community spirit.”

With all sorts of events taking place across Leicestershire on or across the Bank Holiday weekend, we’ve listed a few where no pre-booking is necessary:

Leicester Cathedral Big Lunch at The Grand Hall, St Martins House, Peacock Lane, Leicester - Sunday, May 7th. You can join the cathedral’s congregation to celebrate the coronation with a shared lunch after the Sunday Eucharist Service at 10.30am. Those attending are asked to take finger food and soft drinks. The Big Lunch starts at 12pm. All are welcome and no booking is required. St Peter’s Big Coronation Brunch at St Peter’s Church Centre, Church Road, Glenfield - Sunday, May 7th. Celebrate the coronation weekend with a community brunch and commemoration service at St Peter’s. Begins at 10am.

Quorn Coronation Carnival, Quorn Village - Monday, May 8. This event is being organised by a group of volunteers to provide an opportunity for the community to come together in a fun-packed afternoon. There will be a fairground, a dog show, entertainers, stalls and lots of food and drink on offer.

Monday 8th May will see the Big Help Out take place across the UK - the event will see thousands of people volunteer to support the causes that matter the most to them in tribute to His Majesty The King’s lifetime of service with organisations such as the Scouts, Royal Voluntary Service, National Trust and RNLI.

No matter what you are good at there will be something to suit helping hands of all shapes and sizes! From checking in on someone who’d like a bit of company or volunteering for a charity, the more who join in, the bigger help we will be.

Help us to do something amazing. Join in. Lend a hand. Make a difference.

Find out more about The Big Help Out at www.thebighelpout.org.uk

and The Queen Consort

THE KING

Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, a new Sovereign has acceded to The Throne. King Charles III, formerly known as The Prince of Wales, was born in 1948 and became heir apparent on the accession of Queen Elizabeth II in 1952.

In addition to his official and ceremonial duties in the UK and overseas, His Majesty has taken a keen and active interest in all areas of public life for decades. The King has been instrumental in establishing more than 20 charities over 40 years, including The Prince's Trust, The Prince's Foundation and The Prince of Wales’s Charitable Fund (PWCF).

His Majesty has worked closely with many organisations, publicly supporting a wide variety of causes relating to the environment, rural communities, the built environment, the arts, healthcare and education.

THE QUEEN CONSORT

Her Majesty The Queen Consort (formerly HRH The Duchess of Cornwall) supports her husband, formerly The Prince of Wales, now His Majesty The King, in carrying out his work and duties. She also undertakes public engagements on behalf of the charities that she supports.

On 9th April 2005, the pair were married in a civil ceremony at the Guildhall, Windsor. They were joined by around 800 guests at a Service of Prayer and Dedication at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle. The Service was followed by a reception at Windsor Castle hosted by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

The Queen Consort was previously married to Brigadier Andrew Parker Bowles with the marriage being dissolved in 1995. The couple had two children, Thomas Henry and Laura Rose, born in 1974 and 1978 respectively.

Since her marriage to The King in 2005, The Queen Consort has become Patron of over 90 charities. Her Majesty’s charity work is varied but several themes prevail: health and well-being, promoting literacy, the arts, animal welfare and supporting survivors of rape and sexual assault.

Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Friday Night Films

Mrs Harris goes to Paris

will be shown on May 12th and lasts 115 minutes.

In our May life-affirming drama comedy, Oscar nominee, Lesley Manville, plays widowed cleaning lady Ada Harris who, in the course of her duties, falls madly in love with a Christian Dior dress. This is a delightful “rags to regalia” tale you should not miss. Costume Designer Jenny Beavan was nominated for multiple awards for her fabulous costumes.

The Lost King

will be shown on June 9th and lasts 108 minutes.

Our June film is an incredible local story directed by Leicester-born Stephen Frears, which is nearly all true. Over five hundred years after the last Plantagenet King, Richard III, was slain at the Battle of Bosworth, Phillippa Langley, played by Sally Hawkins, became convinced that she had discovered his resting place. This is the story of her resourceful and exciting research.

Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council will be showing these films at Thurcaston Memorial Hall, starting at 7.30pm. Film tickets will cost the usual £5, which includes a lucky prize draw and refreshments during the interval. You can pay for tickets at the door, if there are any left or buy in advance from:

Richard 0116 2363 066 or Diana 0116 2362 619.

Red, White And ‘Bluebell Service’

St Leonard’s Church, Swithland invite you to their annual Red, White and ‘Bluebell Service’ to be held on Sunday 7th May at 3pm.

The service will be held at Swithland Woods by the Great Pit. The Leicester Cathedral Choir will be performing, making this event truly special.

All donations will go to the Air Ambulance Charity.

LWA CoALviLLe 5K Fun Run TuTus, BuBBles, And A Whole loT of fun!

This fantastic family friendly event on behalf of charity Living without Abuse (LWA) returns to Coalville on the 21st May! Whether you’re a long term runner, you’re taking part in ‘Couch to 5km’ or you’re just looking for some outdoor, active fun, this could be the event for you!

Taking place in Snibston Colliery Park the route is beautifulwith some fun surprises to be had along the way too!

Fancy dress is encouraged (but not compulsory) - whether that’s a full inflatable T-Rex costume or just a tutu - so, get your family, friends, work mates together and join us for this smashing event. The route is walk-, child- and dog-friendly.

Emily Corrigan, Head of Fundraising at LWA: “This event is a must for anyone who is after a fun way to spend their Sunday morning. The park is beautiful and there are a lot of fun surprises on the way, not only that, you’re raising funds for LWA too!”

LWA is looking forward to welcoming you – register online at register.enthuse.com/ps/event/Coalville5kmFunRun2023

Granny’s Best China

For many years, I accepted that if anyone special came for tea, my mother would get the dragon’s breath china out. It wasn’t until I questioned it later, that I suddenly realised that she was actually saying ‘granny’s best china’, or, remembering, when young, learning a poem off by heart which exhorted me to pity mice implicitly when I should have been reciting ‘pity my simplicity’. I did feel a bit simple when I realised that I had been delivering pleas to nurture the rodent population but such is life!

So attending a lipreading class to learn the skill more thoroughly has been a real joy to me. Not only because it has helped me tremendously with communicating effectively but for the support and companionship I have received from other members of the class.

Lipreading is a particular technique used to aid speech understanding by watching the movement of lips, face and tongue when their accompanying sound is not sufficiently loud or clear to hear.

The class is able to share experiences, tips and empathy with one another which helps greatly. Being hard of hearing can be very isolating. Social groups and clubs are an enjoyable way of meeting other people and making new friends but if you are having difficulty in understanding the conversation, it is very easy to find one’s self on the periphery, not being able to participate for fear of not having understood what has already been said.

In terms of inconvenience, there are many disabilities that can plague the human being a great deal more than being hard of hearing but it must rate as one of the most irritating and exasperating at times, in terms of the confusion it can cause. Both for the listener and the speaker too, who occasionally finds the response to their question as barely lucid, never mind fitting.

Embarrassment on all sides, with words and phrases misheard and misunderstood. In my own case, having been born with little more than residual hearing in one ear and the other containing no receptive apparatus at all, it took a few years before I was able to see the occasional humour in the affliction. Even then, it was often not shared by the speaker. The resulting misinterpretation might have seemed a trifle amusing to me but did not necessarily have the same effect on the speaker. Invariably they would either look annoyed with me for causing perplexity or bend over backwards to try and spare me any discomfiture.

Most people who have severe hearing problems probably, without even realising it, try to lipread a speaker’s lips. Even the odd word or two, understood correctly, can give substantive context to what is being conveyed in speech, as can facial expressions....yet another reason for hoping coronavirus or it’s like never reaches again the proportions of 2021/22 - as it is almost impossible to pick up any clues from a face which is protected by a mask.

None of this would have had anything like the beneficial impact that it has though, were it not for the excellent tutor that we have been so fortunate to have acquired. Someone who patiently understands, listens to our needs and who appreciates that different members have differing requirements with varying levels of hearing impairment - not forgetting those who suffer the additional burden of tinnitus (the name for hearing ringing or a buzzing that comes from inside your ears, rather than from an outside source).

Above all having someone who teaches us to lipread in classes that are stimulating, safe and full of interest and which encourage us to share our experiences with each other as she does, with calmness, kindness and good humour, well, its just paramount. We are fortunate not just to have this particular tutor, but to have any tutor. We are in urgent need of new tutors to provide the service to future generations.

The Leslie Edwards Trust (a charity formed in Loughborough in 2009 to help the hard of hearing community learn lipreading) is offering the opportunity to train as a lipreading tutor by offering a professional qualification which involves a one-year distance learning course. The cost of course fees, travel and books will be covered by the Trust. Tutors are freelance and LET pays a generous hourly rate, intended to cover general expenses. Being a tutor is a part-time occupation and generally involves teaching several two-hour sessions weekly, based on a 30 week year.

If you would like to find out more about this very worthwhile challenge, please contact:

leslieedwardstrust@gmail.com, jennycluley@yahoo.co.uk or angela.reddaway@talktalk.net or Jenny on 07889 544 997 Thank you for reading this.

Awareness of OVARIAN CANCER symptoms is DEVASTATINGLY LOW

PERSISTENT BLOATING.

The level of awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms is devastatingly low, and not knowing what to look out for could lead to a delayed diagnosis of the deadliest gynaecological cancer. Do know the symptoms? I didn’t before I was diagnosed with stage III ovarian cancer. I write this because we need to increase widespread awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer to help improve early diagnosis rates. Right now, just 1 in 5 women can name persistent bloating as a symptom, with only 1 in 3 contacting their GP if they experience it.

If I’d have known the symptoms, I would have seen my GP a lot earlier.

In my situation I began to experience pain in my abdomen, similar to period pain, the summer before my diagnosis – along with needing to wee more often and changes to my bowel habits – but I just dismissed it due to my age. I never had ovarian cancer in my mind. It was initially suspected as IBS, but a CT scan and ultrasound later confirmed the cancer, which had spread.

With subsequent surgery I was delighted that all visible signs of cancer were removed. Chemotherapy started a few months afterwards and whilst it was tough, I was determined to be as positive as I could, amazing support from friends and family helping me through. After chemo finished (and due to the loss of my spleen) I now take penicillin. I’m still on this treatment today, determined to stay positive, despite the aches and pains, but maybe that’s just my age!

My own experiences have shown me that so much more needs to be done to raise awareness of ovarian cancer and its symptoms in order to save lives. If diagnosed at the earliest stages, 9 out of 10 women will survive, but currently two thirds of women are diagnosed late, when the cancer is harder to treat. That’s why I want everyone to know the potential significance of the symptoms: bloating, abdominal pain, feeling full quickly and needing to wee more often

Share these symptoms with your friends and loved ones. Help to stop this disease devastating lives.

To find out more visit targetovariancancer.org.uk or to read my full story visit targetovariancancer.org.uk/stories/helens-story-0

Best wishes,

Helen Hills

ABDOMINAL PAIN. FEELING FULL QUICKLY. NEEDING TO WEE MORE OFTEN.

Extraordinary Art in Ordinary Houses

First conceived in 2008 with just three houses taking part, Art House had grown into a hugely popular local event and a permanent fixture in Leicester’s art calendar, until COVID and all the associated restrictions meant the 2020 plans were put on hold. Both the organisers and the artists who had signed up were extremely disappointed, as no doubt were all the regular visitors however the gap of three years has brought with it a few changes.

There have been two people at the heart of Art House since the early days, Kathy Klein and Sue Ryan. After many years of hard work and unstinting dedication, they decided it was time to pass the baton onto someone new. Fortunately a willing volunteer stepped up in time to ensure that 2023 would see Art House resurrected.

The ethos remains the same: extraordinary art in ordinary houses. This art trail gives artists the opportunity to display their work in the informal atmosphere of a domestic setting and promotes the idea that original art in any medium enhances a home and can be appreciated outside a gallery or commercial setting. Many visitors love talking to the artists about their ideas, their processes and the techniques involved. Many exhibitors are also happy to discuss the possibility of commissions.

This is very much a joint venture dependent on local householders and participating artists coming together and being fully committed to making this a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors. Spread between properties of different architectural periods, the houses themselves are of interest and demonstrate that across diverse styles of homes there is always a spot for a piece of original art of some kind. This concept is at the heart of the weekend and our hosts will soon begin to store away their own treasures to make room to show, between them, the work of over 50 artists.

If you’ve been before you’ll know the event stands out as one of the best showcases for original art in a wide variety of media in the city and by introducing new artists on a regular basis, each year will offer something new. Whatever your particular passion may be - paintings, prints, ceramics, textiles or jewellery - there will be something here to appeal to anyone interested in individual craftsmanship.

So if you’re interested in original art and you’ve never managed to make it to Art House Leicester, then get the date in your diary for an exciting new experience. Friday evening, 9th June from 6pm to 8.30pm is the first opportunity to look at what’s on offer. On Saturday and Sunday 10th and 11th of June venues will be open from 11am to 6pm.

There are nine properties opening their doors but with the usual abundance of quality items on show you will certainly need a whole day to really appreciate the event. To make life easier, a hopper bus will operate between venues on Saturday and Sunday.

Art House has always supported various charities and Tart House on Holmfield Road is the main fundraiser for the charities. On Saturday and Sunday they will once again be organising a willing band of volunteers to serve drinks and home-made cakes to weary art seekers. Local musicians too will provide an accompaniment of live music.

Profits raised through the hard work of the Tart House hosts will go to Bone Cancer Research and Mind. Music and refreshments will also be on offer on Springfield Road where Gelato Village will be serving their award winning ice creams.

Art House wishes to record its sincere thanks to Stoneygate and Knighton wards for their continuing support for this event.

For more information please see our website www.art-house.org.uk You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

SUPERCARS & FAMILY-FUN at Whatton House

After the huge success of their Supercars Event last year, Alex’s Wish are set for an even bigger and better event on Sunday 11th June!

A wonderful day is promised, full of Supercars and Hypercars, ranging from Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Porsches, McLarens to Aston Martins and Lotus’s, plus new for this year a range of Classic Supercars too!

Set in the beautiful grounds of Whatton House, an English Country Garden in the heart of Leicestershire, to provide a stunning back drop for the spacious viewing of the supercars, the stunning garden of Whatton House is also open all day for you and your family to enjoy.

Enjoy breath-taking displays too from The Dako Flying Angels, a Leicestershire based gymnastics display team, an F1 Car Simulator, Porsche Racing cars by Parkers Classics, plus amazing raffle prizes up for grabs.

You’ll also get to enjoy a delicious range of street food in the courtyard area offering up many tasty treats including stone baked woodfire pizzas, Al’s Hot Dogs, Stacie’s Bubble Pancakes, Toris Burgers, delicious ice cream, Project D Donuts and a sweets tent, there’s literally something for everyone! Plus, RumBa cocktails, The Prosecco Spritzba, a Beer Tent as well as delicious hot and cold drinks will be available throughout the day.

Gates opens from 10am, with the opportunity to enjoy hot breakfast rolls whilst relaxing in the garden and surrounding areas, ready to see the Supercars which will arrive at 11am.

Alex’s Wish is a charity dedicated to conquering Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, an aggressive form of Muscular Dystrophy that affects 1 in every 3,500 boys born. Their mission is to bring effective treatments to help slow down or even stop devastating muscle wasting. All proceeds from this event will help save the lives of thousands of children and young adults living with Duchenne.

Tickets cost just £10 per adult or £25 for a family ticket, and are available to purchase online www.alexswish.co.uk

Bowling Club Art Group Exhibition Success

The Art Group of the Syston Bowling Group, led by Pauline Wright, recently held a very successful exhibition in the Clubhouse to raise much needed funds.

In spite of the damp weather, the event attracted a steady flow of visitors, family members and friends, all of whom obviously enjoyed the opportunity to socialise and appraise the work of the many exhibitors, (works were produced during the groups fortnightly sessions held throughout the winter months).

Many of the exhibits we snapped up and, by close of business, the group were able to present a brilliant sum of just over £1,000 to the Club Finance Director.

Club Chairman, Dave Anderton, said:

“Special thanks must go to Pauline for inspiring and unlocking the artistic potential of our Members, many of whom had not previously realised what talent they had. I know that the regular classes have given a great deal of pleasure and satisfaction so my thanks also go to those members who worked hard to mount the exhibition itself. The significant contribution made to Club funds is especially welcome at this time of generally increasing costs.”

Syston Bowling Club contact details: 0116 2608412 - systonbowling@btinternet.com - www.systonbowlingclub.org

Council’s Civic Officer Earns National Award

Charnwood Borough Council civic officer, Carol Hardy has received a highly commended award at this year’s Civic Office of the Year awards. The awards, organised by the National Association of Civic Officers was attended by Carol and democratic services manager, Karen Widdowson.

The awards recognise civic officers across the country who have shown a dedicated and particular commitment to their role all year round.

The Mayor of Charnwood, Jennifer Tillotson, said:

“I would like to congratulate Carol on getting this award. It is greatly deserved for all of her hard work.”

“The role of the Mayor is to represent the borough at a local, regional and national level and a large part of being Mayor is to go out into our local communities to recognise some of the fantastic work being carried out by residents and organisations.

“The Mayor simply could not carry out these duties without a committed and dedicated civic office.”

The civic officer supports the Mayor of Charnwood during their year of office including planning diaries, assisting with planning events and accompanying the Mayor and Deputy Mayor to events.

Carol has been a civic officer at the Council for 27 years and has worked at the Council for 38 years.

Carol said: “It’s always nice to be recognised for the work you are doing and it is particularly pleasing to receive this highly commended award from the National Association of Civic Officers.

“I thoroughly enjoy supporting the Mayor throughout the year in their duties as the borough’s first citizen.”

Butterflies of Charnwood, Leicestershire and Rutland

Discover which butterflies can be found locally when Richard Jeffery, County Recorder for Butterflies, talks about the amazing butterflies (and a few moths) to be found in our area.

This talk is hosted by the Charnwood Local Group of the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust on Wednesday 10th May, 7.30pm at Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall, LE12 8RZ.

Entry: £3 - Trust members, £3.50 - non-members and free for children.

For more information about the Wildlife Trust and the Charnwood Local Group please visit www.lrwt.org.uk

Charity Support for Leicestershire’s Future

The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity (STWLC) has awarded nine interest-free loans to people within Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland in the first quarter of 2023.

Totalling £126,500, the largest quarterly amount the Charity has approved in over a year, the latest sum in interest-free loans is to be utilised to either fund business start-up or development, or postgraduate education.

Seven interest-free business loans totalling £107,500 were approved to support a variety of local businesses including a florist, estate agent and a camper van design and conversions company.

Meanwhile, two education loans were approved to enable the postgraduate studies of a Legal Practice Course and a Master of Science (MSc) in Biopharmaceutical Development.

Established in 1542, STWLC hosts quarterly application windows each year in which people aged over 18 and under 45 can apply for unique interest-free loans of up to £20,000 to aid local businesses, or £10,000 to support students wishing to return to postgraduate education. The Charity’s loans are interest-free for nine years, and become repayable by equal instalments after three years.

Lucy Womack, Chair of STWLC, said: “It’s fantastic to start the first quarter of 2023 with the news that we’ve approved nine interestfree loans to support a variety of local business and education aspirations.

“It’s a great start to the year, but we don’t want to stop there. We’re incredibly passionate about helping young people to achieve their dreams – and our interest-free business and education loans are the perfect helping hand for just that. If you, or someone you know, needs funds to start up a new business idea, grow an existing business or return to university for a postgraduate course, then please get in touch or visit our website to find out how we can help.”

Application packs are available to download from www.stwcharity.co.uk

LoCAL PhotogRAPheR JoAnne eAstoPe AChieves International Acclaim

Joanne Eastope, a photographer from Quorn, is celebrating after receiving ‘The Natural World - Landscape Photographer of the Year’ award. The award is presented by the prestigious Societies of Photographers for taking part in their annual International Photographic Competition.

The Societies of Photographers are a group of organisations incorporating the interests of all aspects of photography and manage eight internationally recognised photographic organisations. The membership is open to full-time professional, semi-professional and serious enthusiasts.

The annual competition garners over 6,500 entries per year from the most talented of photographers from all around the world.

Joanne’s image of a mountain sunrise in Slovenia was awarded ‘Judges Choice’ in the annual competitions and then at the Societies Convention in London was awarded first place in ‘The Natural World – Landscapes’ category.

Earlier this year Joanne was also a nominee in the ‘Guild of Photographers Annual Image of the Year’ final, courtesy of a night sky image of the Milky Way over Tenerife’s alien mountain landscape, becoming a finalist out of around 12,000 entries.

To have an image recognised by either the Societies or the Guild in the monthly competitions is difficult enough, so to have two images selected as being one of the best in a category for an end of year final is without doubt an incredible achievement. To achieve a nomination by both organisations is a real achievement, particularly when you consider Joanne has a full time, completely unrelated, job and photography is a passion that she pursues in her spare time.

Joanne said “I love photography and put a lot of effort into developing my skills. One way I do that is to enter competitions. The standard of judging is extremely high and drives forward my photography skills month after month; it really helps me push myself. The images I see getting awards each month are inspirational, knowing just how high those standards are. I could hardly believe it when I was awarded the winning title.”

“This particular image was a taken in Slovenia, very early on a bitterly cold February morning. I clearly remember how cold and crisp the morning was. Just watching the sunlight start to slip over the landscape in front of me as the sun rose was mesmerising. Luckily, I remembered to press the shutter on my camera and achieved a final image that does justice to the beauty of the location.”

Joanne specialises in landscape and travel photography and also takes commissions for dog and horse portraits. For more details visit facebook.com/charnwoodphotography or email Joanne at info@charnwoodphoto.co.uk.

YOUR CHANCETO WIN£250 EACH MONTH!

Steps is a registered charity supporting families with children who have special educational needs. They offer a free and unique service following the principles of Conductive Education for children with conditions that cause motor impairments or motor development delays, and cater for young children with Cerebral Palsy, chromosome disorders including Down Syndrome or other conditions which affect the acquisition of motor skills.

Their goal is to develop the skills the children need to progress and maximize their potential. At the same time, they provide parents with the knowledge, confidence and resilience they need to understand how they can enhance the development of their child. Steps is an incredibly worthwhile charity which provides huge benefits to the lives of the children it supports and their families. It is a very special place where children play and learn together and their parents receive strength and encouragement from each other.

Each year the charity needs to raise £250,000 in order to provide this unique facility, free of charge.

By taking part and becoming a member of the Steps Super Lottery Club, you will be helping them to fund their valuable and life-changing charity. Steps provides free, specialist services and support to children and their families from across the East Midlands. Please help them by becoming a Steps Super Lottery Club member and in doing so you will support this life-changing charity all whilst having a chance to win a fantastic £250 Prize Draw each month.

www.stepscentre.org.uk/steps-lottery

HELP IS AT HAND!

Building on the success of last year’s event, Syston and District Volunteer Centre will once again showcase local community service organisations in a special “Help is at Hand!” Pavilion as part of this year’s Summer Fayre on Central Park on Saturday 2nd September. Subsidised display areas, within a special marquee, will feature local not-for-profit organisations and other companies - which offer social, cultural, sporting, educational, financial, health and emotional support to those in need, easing problems and enhancing the quality of life. The show is intended to demonstrate that, through the wealth of active voluntary organisations, whatever the need might be, there is a local solution.

The event offers organisations an exceptional, low-cost opportunity to promote their services, recruit more members, attract volunteer support and raise funds - all with the minimum of organisational effort on their part. Many of these groups operate “under the radar” with a great deal of work being put in by small but dedicated groups of volunteers. As a result, too many local residents “suffer in silence”, experiencing great inconvenience, distress and loneliness simply through ignorance of what kind of support is available locally.

With the help of a significant subsidy from the Volunteer Centre, the “Help is at Hand!” exhibition is intended to address these deficiencies. Several qualifying groups are regular attendees at the Fayre and are suitably equipped with “weatherproof” display equipment. Others are not so fortunate but by seeking to combine all service groups under one roof at the Fayre, it is hoped to reduce costs, increase the

impact and effectiveness and significantly reduce the organisational effort involved. Invitations have been issued to those who took part in the 2022 event - and to others who have subsequently expressed an interest in being involved. Any other group wishing to take advantage of this opportunity should contact Volunteer Centre Trustee, Colin Grimes, who will be happy to give further advice and guidance, please telephone 0116 2608412 or email sadvc@btinternet.com.

Thurcaston & Cropston Local History Society

Conscientious Objectors and the Peace Campaign in Leicestershire

At the last meeting of the Thurcaston and Cropston local history society, we were privileged to listen to a talk on Conscientious Objectors and the Peace Campaign in Leicestershire given by Jess Jenkins, supported by her husband Robin.

Jess has a particular interest in the history of protest. She is also the author of ‘The Burning Question: the Struggle for Women’s Suffrage in Leicestershire’ and of “Nursing in Serbia with Lady Paget in 1915”, an account of Flora Scott, a Leicester nurse, who volunteered overseas during the First World War.

Jess began her talk by referring to the fact that some religious leaders, from 1908, headed up protests against Britain engaging in World War I, but others encouraged the recruiting of supporters, including a Dr Freeman who ‘demolished with sledge hammer blows’ government members such as Ramsey Macdonald who were opposed to the war. Jess also praised Emmeline Pankhurst and others who said that militant women had the right to go out and fight. Yet despite public opposition to war, there were anti-German riots across Britain before war was officially declared on Germany on 4 August 1914.

1915 saw a big recruitment campaign launched by the army but it wasn’t until 1916 that British men were conscripted into the armed forces, despite opposition. There was a national movement against conscription which included the prominent voices of Leicestershire locals Joseph Poole, Frederick Floode, Charles Kitchen, Edwin Walker and many more Christians, who insisted that human life was sacred. An anti-war fellowship was set up in Leicester, which eventually led to mob violence and many of those who refused to serve were imprisoned, some not being released until 1919, despite the Armistice of 11 November 1918 finally bringing fighting to an end.

Of particular interest were Jess’ stories of local Leicestershire men who were either conscripted or imprisoned because they refused to serve in the armed forces. Her talk engaged us all.

The Society meets again on 16th May for a return visit from Mick Rawle, who will tell us all about the interesting history of Melton Mowbray.

www.thurcastoncropstonhistory.org.uk

Fairest Isle an evening of Purcell

Henry Purcell (1659-95) is one of England’s finest composers. The Chamber choir, Viva la Musica, has chosen to give a concert entirely dedicated to his music, taking place in Loughborough on Saturday June 24th.

Viva la Musica is a small chamber choir and will break into smaller ensembles for much of this music as required – with quartets, trios, duets and solos, using forces much like those which Purcell would have had at his disposal.

The singers will be accompanied by Quinque Muisci - a chamber string quartet with Nicholas Scott-Burt on harpsichord/chamber organ.

This concert, entitled ‘Fairest Isle’, offers you a unique, specialist and authentic experience. At Loughborough Parish Church, LE11 1EE, it will start at 7.30pm and will be conducted by the chamber choir’s Music Director, Simon Lumby.

Tickets are £15 (£12.50 for Students, Under 16s free) and are available from www.vivalamusica.org.uk or on the door.

World Renowned Micro-artist comes to Woodhouse

Come and enjoy a stimulating event organised by, and on behalf of, Rainbows Childrens Hospice to be held on Friday May 19th at 7.30pm at the Woodhouse Community Hall, Forest Road, Woodhouse, Loughborough, LE12 8TZ (parking available).

Our speaker is someone you may (or may not) have heard of but nonetheless has an extraordinary skill. His name is Graham Short and he is considered to be one of the most talented living micro-artists in the world. His unique, intricate work can be seen in what is believed to be the world’s tiniest nativity - carved on a speck of gold inside the eye of a needle...Graham spent 40 hours painstakingly etching the minuscule scene onto the speck, which is no wider than a human hair using an ultra-fine needle! He has also famously engraved the words ’Nothing is Impossible’ along the cutting edge of a traditional razor blade (pictured top right).

His latest project, valued at £250,000, is the Lord’s Prayer etched onto a speck of gold and also inserted into the eye of a needle (see right).

Working twilight hours in between heartbeats and aided by Botox-style injections around his eyes (to stop the nerves and muscles twitching while he works), Graham goes to extraordinary lengths to create his masterpieces. Having appeared on numerous TV programmes the pensioner, hailing from Birmingham, is a charismatic speaker. His highly amusing and entertaining presentation is described as ‘more theatre than classroom’ and is littered with tales about the celebrities he has met and worked with, such as The Royal Family, Ronnie Barker, Neil Armstrong, Stephen Fry and Kim Kardashian!

Graham will be bringing samples of his work and there will be a Q&A session

We will have a pay bar and raffle and the ticket price is £7.50 with all proceeds going to Rainbows Childrens Hospice

For more details please email Beverley at charityevent2000@icloud.com or info@aegf.co.uk or telephone 01530 224579.

We’re anticipating this will be a very fun and extremely interesting event, so do spread the word, and we look forward to welcoming all on May 19th.

Charnwood Local Group of the LRWT Raises £1,000

Dave Robinson, chair of the Charnwood Local Group of the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, recently handed over a cheque for £1,000 to the C.E.O. of the Trust, Mat Carter, at their recent AGM.

Donations had been raised by group members organising talks, walks and fundraising events to support vital nature conservation work carried out by the Trust in Charnwood, Leicestershire and Rutland.

Talks about wildlife and nature conservation are regularly hosted by the local group at Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall on the second Wednesday evening of the month from September to May. There are also walks and other activities scheduled throughout the year.

For further information about the Wildlife Trust and the Charnwood Group’s events and activities please visit www.lrwr.org.uk

THURCASTON ANd CROpSTON GARdENING ClUb

The 12-Month Garden – Colour All Year Round

The last meeting of the Thurcaston and Cropston Gardening Club coincided with the start of wintery weather, and with the promise of more to come! This prevented a number of members attending but for those who did venture out they were treated to a very informative and humorous evening’s talk.

Our speaker, Geoff Hodge, presented an excellent illustrated talk called ‘The 12-Month Garden – Colour All Year Round’. Geoff is a freelance garden writer and editor, and a very experienced speaker. He has written eight gardening books and he is one of the panel of experts for gardening programmes on BBC Radio Cambridgeshire. He also appears on Q&A panels at flower shows across the country and gives lots of talks and demonstrations at garden shows and for gardening clubs.

Geoff started his very entertaining talk off by providing a very useful plant list, split into different sections, such as evergreen shrubs, deciduous shrubs (with more than one season of interest), long flowering shrubs, herbaceous perennials, bulbs, and annuals. Plants were then selected from each section - all demonstrated with good quality photos - before Geoff gave tips on how to get the best from them in order to get year-round colour.

Geoff suggested that in spring and summer it should be easy to achieve a colourful garden, but that autumn and winter would be trickier. He also warned us about rushing off to garden centres in spring to buy plants without planning! Having run a nursery himself, he warned that garden centre owners know all the tricks of the trade in displaying irresistible plants to encourage us to spend money but often the first question you ask when returning from a centre laden with such bounty is “where am I going to plant this!”

This talk was full of interesting and practical tip and ideas, with Geoff making the audience laugh throughout courtesy of many humorous anecdotes and comments. His quality as a speaker showed and he was much appreciated by the members on a wintery evening.

The Gardening Club meets in the Thurcaston and Cropston Memorial Hall. Whether an experienced gardener or an enthusiastic beginner we are sure you will find something of interest in this year’s programme. New members are made most welcome. What’s more, it’s excellent value!! The membership fee is still only £12 for the year (pro rota) or £3 per meeting.

So, if you are interested in gardening - come and give the Club a try.

For more information about the Club, please contact:

Dave Haddon 0116 235 9758 / david.haddon20@ntlworld.com. Or Richard Elks 0116 236 8313 / cropston161@hotmail.co.uk.

The next Club events are:

Wed 10th May - Plants for the Connoisseur - Simon Gulliver

Simon is a Gardens & Parks Consultant for the National Trust, responsible for advising on the development of 20 historic gardens in the West and North Midlands. Previously Simon also worked for the NT Northwest region covering gardens in the Lakes and Cheshire.

Simon trained at Pershore College and worked at the RHS Garden, Wisley for two years as the horticulturalist at Plant Heritage (administering the National Plant Collections Scheme). He also trained in Biodiversity and worked for ten years at Birmingham Botanical Gardens as its Horticultural Lecturer and Plant Collections Manager.

‘Plants for the Connoisseur’ is Simon’s favourite selection of beautiful plants that are either a little different, interesting, unusual and/or a bit more challenging to grow. It also covers how to grow and enjoy them.

This is an illustrated talk with plants for sale.

Wed 14th June - Top 20 Tips from a former Head Gardener, Pip Smith

At this illustrated talk Pip shares some of his favourite tips from his time as a Head Gardener. It’s an eclectic mix that includes ideas on how to save water in the summer to his favourite plants for those ‘tricky to grow spots’ in your garden.

A Landscape Designer with over 13 years’ experience working as a professional horticulturist Pip trained to degree level in horticulture at Pershore College. He has an MA in Landscape Architecture from Birmingham City University and has held the post of Head Gardener at several private and public gardens, most recently at the highly acclaimed Wollerton Old Hall in Shropshire. In 2020 he set up his own landscape design studio in Worcestershire and uses his previous experience to create imaginative, sympathetic and long-lasting designs for clients.

In The Garden...With Joanne Kennedy

Nothing signifies the British summer more than the Rose. Its buds form in May and in June it bursts into flower. It has been around in our gardens for centuries, with hundreds of species and thousands of cultivars, and it’s also the UK’s favourite plant.

Things to do in the garden this month:

• Keep weeds under control by regularly hoeing borders

• Plant out summer bedding plants and fill containers/baskets once the fear of frost has passed; remember to water daily

• Keep greenhouses ventilated by opening windows and doors - an automatic opener spares you from coming home to a greenhouse full of wilting plants

• Mow lawns weekly

• Take off the heads of daffodils but wait for the foliage to die back before cutting

• Prune early flowering shrubs such as Forsythia and Ribes as these will have finished flowering

• Prune early flowering clematis such as Clematis Montana if finished flowering

• Keep tying in climbing roses’ shoots to its framework

• Put in plant supports for tall perennials

Not only do roses give you colourful blooms, they also have a wonderful scent which wafts through the air as you walk by. They are versatile too, being grown as climbers to cover a fence or pergola; as shrubs in borders; as ground cover or grown together in a rose border.

Here are a few suggestions for your gardens this summer:

For ground cover and roses that flower all summer try Bonica, which grows about 1m x 1m and has bright pink blooms; Ballerina, with small but masses of pale pink flowers or one of the Flower carpet varieties such as Gold or Velvet for yellow or red flowers.

For the middle of the border there are lots to choose from but these are some of my favourites:

For a rich burgundy red rose try the beautiful Munstead Wood, it has large heads with a multitude of petals. Looking for hot colours? Then David Austin’s Molineux with its abundance of yellow blooms is lovely and last year mine was still flowering in November! Another good yellow rose is the strong scented Korresia.

If you want an “in your face” rose look for Super Trouper with its hot orange blooms – not one for the faint hearted! For a pure white rose Iceburg is a long-standing favourite and will flower throughout summer. This can also be grown as a climber.

For the rear of the border there’s the tall Queen Elizabeth which grows up to 6ft (1.8m) tall or Constance Spry which can grow up to 10ft (3m) tall.

Favourite climbers and ramblers are Albertine, however it only flowers once (in June) but has the most beautiful mass of peachy pink flowers; New Dawn has delicate, pale pink flowers and has the added bonus of not minding a shadier wall, so is a useful climber; and yellow flowered Graham Thomas or Rosa Banksaie Lutea, with the latter being an unusual rambler that flowers early (late April through to June).

For advice on any of the above feel free to contact me on 07739 153516 or 01530 832670 or via my website www. gardenblueprints.net; my Facebook page Garden Blueprints or via Twitter @ GardenBluPrints