April 2013 Groby Spotlight by Michael Wilkinson

Groby Community College is an Ofsted ‘Good’ School

Groby Community College passed their recent Ofsted inspection with flying colours after a team of inspectors said that the college had made such rapid progress in recent months that it was now a ‘good’ school. The inspection team recognised the journey that the college is undergoing in order to become outstanding. The recently published report stated that the principal, leaders and teachers have an “uncompromising ambition for better outcomes for students”. The two day visit at the end of February is part of Ofsted’s new short notice inspections in which schools receive notification at 12.30pm the day before. Principal Robert Coles said that the college was not worried by only a few hours notice as he was proud for inspectors to see the college as it is on a daily basis. “The students did themselves proud during the two days” said the Principal. Inspectors commented on the “good behaviour, courtesy and helpfulness of the young people in the college”. Post 16 behaviour and attitudes are stated as “outstanding” in the final report which was published on both the college’s and Ofsted’s website on Friday 15 March 2013. Robert Coles stated that he was thrilled for the local area to have another Ofsted good school at the heart of community. “Every student deserves to be able to attend a good school on their doorstep” he stated. The Ofsted Report states the following: • Teaching is good and much is outstanding • Teachers have excellent subject knowledge • Students enjoy being at the college and behave well • Marking is used to give students excellent guidance on how to improve The ‘Brookvale – Groby 11-19 Learning Campus’ consists of both Brookvale High School and Groby Community College; both are good schools with outstanding features. This external validation from Ofsted recognises the great progress and high quality teaching that students receive from the Groby schools. The college already has GCSE outcomes which are above the national average and A Level progress which is second in Leicestershire.

Richard III’s Leicester Groby Village Hall, 7.30 pm, 25 April 2013 GROBY VILLAGE SOCIETY presents: A virtual walk through Leicester as it was in the 1480s, using drawings of Leicester’s buildings of the period (PowerPoint). Widow Jennyt Grooby wears late medieval clothes and describes the buildings, people, markets, castle (visited by Richard III) and customs of Leicester. Illustrations include the “Blue” Boar Inn and Bow Bridge and an early map of Leicester. She will bring reproduction artefacts, of crafts and household goods of that time, to be seen and handled and will answer many of your questions. I have a reputation for entertaining and informative talks. We will provide a pa system!

Widow Jennyt Grooby, also known as Alison Coates.

Groby lad gets his first break in acting at The Curve in Piaf Sean Dodds always knew he wanted to be an actor when, as a seven year old, he played a policeman in a holiday club play in Majorca. Since then, he has appeared as Bill Sykes in a community production of ‘Oliver’, graduated from performing arts school and worked in pantomime. The 20 year old, who celebrated his birthday while Turn to page 3

Sean Dodds celebrating his 20th Birthday during the run, surrounded by all the members of the cast. Nicknamed the ‘Whipper Snapper’ by the cast Sean hopes this is the first of many professional roles for him in his chosen career.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

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On the 90th day of Christmas, my true love said to me: “You take Christmas too seriously.”

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Successful Fair Trade Saturday Why did members of Groby United Reformed Church spend Fair Trade Saturday standing outside Budgens and the Co-Op?

Groby lad appears in Piaf Continued from page 1

Because 50% of the world’s hungry are farmers who are unable to earn a living from the crops they grow. Rich countries waste as much food as the total annual food production of sub-Saharan African. Small holder tea growers often receive less than 3% of the retail value of tea and sometimes less than 1% and church members think this is very unfair. The top photo shows Michelle Marshall (Assistant Manager of Budgens) presents Lyn Holman of Castle Donington with her prize of Fair Trade groceries. Lyn was visiting family in Groby when she stopped off to take part in the competition. In the other photo, Carolyn Burnham (Sunday Supervisor of the Co-op) presents winner Wendy Smith of Groby & her daughters with their Fair Trade prize. Trade Carolyn said “The store has seen an increase this weekend in the sale of fairly traded goods.” Both hampers were generously donated by the stores and were won by guessing three Fair Trade questions, which were drawn from the correct entries. The answers were: Tea picker: coffee cherries/ berries: Leicester city has had fair trade status for the last 10 years.

LETTERS

Disgusting dog fouling! A message to the thoughtless individual who allowed a large dog to deposit an amazing trail of dog faeces up Markfield Road Groby from the Church upwards in time to welcome people attending Church on Easter Day: Please exercise your dog on a footpath where you live in future.

A FOOTPATH USER

And again ...! I hope you were not one of the poor souls who went to church on Easter Sunday and had to pick their way round 10 ‘dollops of doggy do’ on the pavement outside the gates. If you didn’t walk it into church perhaps you walked it into your car when you went home. Tuesday morning saw a ‘repeat performance’ just a few feet away. Come on dog owners - clean up after your pet. you are making Groby an utter mess.

ANOTHER FOOTPATH USER

in ‘Piaf‘, found himself playing opposite award-winning West End and Broadway star Frances Ruffelle in ‘Piaf ’ at Curve Leicester. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the death of French singer Edith Piaf, known as the Little Sparrow, who rose from the streets of of Paris to the international stage. Sean, who graduated from Leicester College of Performing Arts last summer plays three roles. He said “Piaf is a gripping play with music. I play a waiter, a German soldier and Piaf ’s Agent. I play opposite Frances Rufelle, who is ‘Piaf ’. It is a remarkable experience and a great opportunity for me. It is wonderful working with artistic director Paul Kerryson and such a talented cast”. Sean is now based in London. While at school at Groby Community College, he took part in productions and also attended sessions at the Stagecoach School run by his mother. His professional bow at Curve is not his first appearance at the venue however. He appeared in Curve community productions as Bill Sykes in ‘Oliver’ and as Riff, the gang leader of the Jets in ‘West Side Story’. That is where he was noticed by Paul Kerryson. Who called him for an audition. Sean said: “The trouble was, I was working in professional pantomime of Mother Goose in Chesterfield over Christmas. Every time he suggested a time and venue I was working or looking for a flat in London”. In the end he was offered a place in the cast anyway. Sean said: “Obviously my work in the community productions had served as auditions.” The production, set in the Studio of the Curve sold out in weeks and another week had to be added from the 3rd to the 6th April, this time in the main house, to accommodate all the people who wish to see it. Planning is under way for a national tour of the production, following the performances at Curve.

Apparently nine out of ten single women who sit at home and have conversations with their cats are mentally disturbed. My dog’s full of useful information like that.

Fairytale News: The Pied Piper has 12 rats behind him, more to follow...

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Letter

Parking in Groby In response to the “anonymous” reply to my letter in the February issue re; parking in Groby. I do understand there is a problem with Groby being used as a park and ride, mainly on Markfield Road. The parking on Crane Ley Road and Chapel Hill however, is as near as 100%, employees from Druck. I watch regularly from my lounge window and marvel at the “Usain Bolt” speed of the owners as they sprint to their cars to get out of the village at 4.30pm not 3.00pm. I also understand that these people are likely to be temporary staff who are not given on site parking at Druck so it is their responsibility to park legally and safely off site. Owners have been approached and asked about their parking but they seem to just shrug it off, so, let me put them on the spot. HIGHWAY CODE rules 242,243 and 244 state, loosely, that you must not leave your vehicle in a dangerous position causing unnecessary obstruction and where you would prevent access by emergency services. You are not allowed to park opposite or within 10 metres of a junction, on the kerb or on, or near, the brow of a hill, so you see, whether you have road tax, MOT and insurance or not!!, you are still illegally and/or irresponsibly parked.

Shaun Barton

And another ... I am still laughing at the letter in your recent publication from a Druck employee. Firstly I have lived on Crane-Ley road for 16 years. The last couple of years the parking situation has definitely got worse. I can look outside my property between the hours of 7.30-17.30 and see approx 30 cars ALL belonging to Druck employees. I do not believe people would park in Groby, just to take the bus into town. The Druck employee is showing his arrogant nature by going on about paying his road tax, etc, more or less insinuating he can park wherever he likes. I wonder how he would like it if myself and neighbours parked on his road (both sides), making crossing the road difficult, not to mention the hazard of fire engines trying to get by! The new 101 number introduced by the police will come in handy for any inconsiderate/illegal parking witnessed. I wish Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council would pull their fingers out and do something about this!

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It’s “Jamaican hairstyle day” at work tomorrow,. I’m dreading it.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

View a 20 minute film of Groby in the 1960s

The Changing Face of Groby An old cine film of Groby, which had been left in a loft for many years, was rediscovered a while back.

The tapes were put onto a dvd and a film show was put on in the village hall attracting many interested people. Now, the complete film has been uploaded to the Village Website (groby.org.uk) in the Gallery Section and can been seen by anyone with access to a computer with broadband connection. The original cine film was made by Reg Sykes during the 1960’s, who lived on Ratby Road, Groby for over 20 years. It is approximately 20 minutes long and contains some sights in Groby that no longer exist, notably, the Prefabs around Forest Rise, the old railway engine shed and tunnel under Ratby Road, and of course, the many open green fields. Reg knew that with the building of the motorway, Groby was going to change! Also added to the website this month is the recent research by David Ramsey on the Grey Family following the Time Team Dig in 2010. To read David’s findings, please go into the History Section and click on ‘The Grey Family’. If you would like to know more about Groby past and present, then visit www.groby.org.uk

Letter

Plea for a Balanced View on New Wind Turbines I am writing in response to the reported on going “row” in respect of the wind turbines reported in Norman Griffiths‘ Jottings. We all live very energy intensive lives and share a desire to maintain this position. This lifestyle has its price, and part of this price is that the electricity needed to meet demand has to be generated. Wind Turbines are a small, but growing contributor to maintaining supplies. As a near neighbour, the new turbines are much preferable to alternative systems of generating energy such as a coal, gas fired or nuclear power stations, and have to go somewhere. There are areas of outstanding beauty where they would be clearly out of place, but, whilst the 30 years I have lived in Groby has given me a love of the area, the location of the new turbines is not an outstanding piece of countryside. We could perhaps ask ourselves how and where should electricity be generated if not by 2 (some may feel) elegant structures, which create no noxious emissions, are efficiently close to consumers, but which are in a fairly ordinary piece of countryside and are separated from residential areas by a noisy dual carriage way. The knee jerk reactions of some seems to be ‘anywhere as long as it is in someone else’s back yard’ One final thought. A good friend of mine was brought up in a windmill which is now a much photographed listed building, ie it is generally believed to enhance the surrounding countryside. In its day, as a means of grinding corn, it too would have been a ‘new technology’ harnessing natural resources to help feed a growing nation. I wonder if the objectors of today’s development would then have found it too “visually intrusive”. Times and views as to what is attractive change, particularly with the introduction of the new. We need, perhaps, less grandstanding and ‘NIMBYism’ and a more balanced view on these structures.

Peter Griggs

Swedish

‘I’ll put the coffee machine on’ It doesn’t have quite the same ring as ‘I’ll put the kettle on’, but nevertheless, that is what seems to be happening across the country these days. The latest retail trends show that sales of kettles have continued to decline, until now more than one in five of us does not even own a kettle. Meanwhile we are opting for fancy coffee makers, and more than one in five of us can make our own espressos, lattes and cappuccinos.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Groby Gardening Society News March Meeting What is a weed? Well, it seems to depend upon your point of view. To some they are simply a gardening nuisance, whereas to others they are a nice plant in the wrong place. Shakespeare did not appear to be a great weed lover as he wrote “To thy fair flower add the rank smell of weeds: But why thy odour matcheth not thy show? The soil is this, that thou dost common grow.” The book of Genesis states “Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat of it all the days of your life. It will produce thorns and thistles for you and you will eat the plants of the field. By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground.” At our March meeting, Eric Webster gave a most interesting presentation on this subject close to most gardeners’ hearts. He outlined some historical points such as the sycamore being considered for a long time as a weed brought over by the Romans. He also described the process of colonisation by wild plants after the last ice age. Eric was clearly a supporter of weeds in the general sense and backed up his thoughts by suggesting that many valued wild flowers, that greatly enhance our countryside, can become unwanted weeds if they invade our gardens. Cow parsley, red campion, buttercups and even dandelions fell into this category. An interesting aside was his information that there are over 360 micro species of dandelion in the British Isles. An aspect which many would not have considered was the effect of some weeds on the quality of farm products such as milk or flour. Quite a few weeds, if eaten by dairy cows, can produce unappetising, bitter milk. Penny cress and the wild alliums are examples of such plants. A rye-like grass whose seed head is almost indistinguishable from wheat was a similar problem. This Bearded Darnel is thought to be the tares in the parable of the wheat and tares, and as it thrives wherever wheat is grown, a problem developed. If its seeds are ground with the wheat grains, sour (possibly poisonous) flour is produced. Its similarity to wheat seeds in terms of size and appearance was a real problem until the last century when separation techniques improved. Black nightshade grows well in fields of cultivated peas and its seeds greatly resemble peas in size, if not appearance. Mechanised picking could not distinguish between the two. There is, of course, a rich history of plants such as our weeds being used in herbal and medicinal potions. Even today, quite a few are used in mainstream medicine and complementary treatments such as homeopathy. Deadly nightshade (atropa belladonna) is a well-known example. The common name belladonna originates from its historic use by women - Bella Donna is Italian for beautiful lady. Drops prepared from the belladonna plant were used to dilate women’s pupils, an effect considered attractive. Belladonna is currently rarely used cosmetically, as it carries the adverse effects

of causing minor visual distortions, inability to focus on near objects, and increased heart rate. Prolonged usage was reputed to cause blindness. Although now superseded by drugs, it was used to dilate pupils in some eye operations. Amongst the characteristics of weeds is the ability of their seeds to lie dormant for long periods of time. The famous fields of Flanders poppies of World War I fame had not been seen growing before the conflict. The enormous upheavals of soil due to explosions brought dormant seeds, which had been long buried, nearer to the surface where they could germinate. Also, Eric showed an example of a larkspur plant that grew within weeks of the demolition of the old Loughborough Workhouse. Research showed that the seed of this plant had probably been buried when the workhouse was built over one hundred years previously. The ability of weeds to quickly colonise suitable sites is evident all around, but the well-known Rosebay Willow Herb was fairly rare until conditions during the London Blitz favoured its growing habits. Along with Buddleia, it must be one of the most common sights on derelict land.

Outings We have almost reached our target numbers for the one day and two day trips and Eric is keen to collect the monies from members who have signed up. It is surprising how early we need to submit deposits for some aspects of these trips, so an early response to Eric’s request would be greatly appreciated. If anyone is still interested in either trip, please contact Alvar directly.

Forthcoming events • May 9th - “Auriculas and Astrantias” by Bob Taylor • May 18th - The Plant Sale at the Village hall • June 13th - “Fuchsias” by Martin Beerman • June 21st - Day Trip to Cotswolds and Coughton Court Our monthly meetings are held at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of the month, usually in the United Reformed Church rooms on Chapel Hill. Details about membership and the events programme can be obtained from Alvar Johnson. (Tel. No. 01162877870) or E mail alvar3@talktalk.net

Alvar Johnson

Village Show Schedule The Village Show will take place on Saturday August 17th 2013 The Show Schedule for this year is to be found on the Spotlight website (www.grobyspotlight.co.uk). Hard copies can be obtained from the village library.

FLOWERS

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Groby Gardening Society & Groby Women’s Institut e

Groby Annual Show 2013

VEGETABLES

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01530-244069 Email us at: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk Visit the website at www.grobyspotlight.co.uk 3,500 copies distributed 11 times a year (no issue in July) to homes and businesses in Groby, Field Head and The Brantings. Compiled and published in the Parish of Groby & Field Head. Printed in Ellistown by Norwood Press. The Spotlight is a monthly compilation of articles, press releases, events, general items of interest and news items submitted to us by local residents, groups, associations, sports clubs and local authorities. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Spotlight Production Team. The inclusion of any group or organisation in this publication does not necessarily imply a recommendation of its aims, methods or policies. Groby & Field Head Spotlight cannot be held responsible for the information disclosed by advertisements, all of which are accepted in good faith. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission. Groby & Field Head Spotlight reserves the right to amend, shorten or refuse to publish articles and/or advertisements submitted for publication. All contents © Groby & Field Head Spotlight. None of the articles contained in this magazine are to be reproduced in any way without first obtaining written consent from Groby & Field Head Spotlight.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

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I’ve just been informed that a distant relative has left me a priceless watch in her will. I hope it’s not a wind up.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Deceptively spacious 2 bedroomed mid terraced house with pebbled front garden and enjoying a large well stocked rear garden. Accommodation, with double glazing and gas fired central heating comprises Lounge with bay, Dining room, Kitchen and Utility area, stairs to landing, two double Bedrooms and refitted Bathroom/wc. Close to village shops and amenities.

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Preservation ~ Conservation Communal Interests

Forthcoming Events Thursday March 28 - A.G.M. Thursday April 25 - Richard III’s Leicester - Mrs Alison Coates Thursday May 23 - Wot, No Polar Bears? - Mr Simon Coates Thursday June 27 - Egypt the Ancient Land of the Pharaohs - Mrs Anne Halsey Meetings are held at Groby Village Hall Starting at 7.30pm. For Further Details Contact Hon. Secretary Mr. P. Castell Tel. 0116 287 9842 Email: groby.villagesociety@ tiscali.co.uk Non Members are Welcome

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In an unusual move the National Trust has taken over the management of Eyam Hall and Craft Centre in the Peak District by securing a long term lease from the owners, Robert and Nicola Wright, the ninth generation of the family, who wish to retire from running the property. Eyam is best known as the “plague village” that chose to isolate itself when the plague struck in August 1665 rather than let the infection spread. The plague raged for 14 months and killed at least 260 villagers out of a population of approximately 350. Mr Wright said “The Hall is part of Eyam’s remarkable history. It was important to us that it continues to be told which is why we approached the National Trust to help this happen”. The Trust will tell the story of the Wright family in the hall and garden, while the craft centre will offer a visitor “hub” from which to explore the plague story around the village. They are also pleased to be able to tell the internationally significant plague story about the courage of the community, whilst helping to conserve the Jacobean Hall and the craft centre. The hall, which was built in 1672, and the gardens are open to the public from Wednesday to Sunday each week until the end of October from 10.30 to 4.00. The craft centre will be open every day all year round. Last year I reported that Gunby Hall near Skegness had been taken back into National Trust management after being leased to a tenant for many years. The hall was immediately opened to the public and had a very successful year with many more visitors than expected. This splendid country house, built in 1700, has links with Kipling, Darwin and Tennyson in addition to a range of magnificent rooms all of which have been refreshingly presented for the 2013 season. The other major attraction at Gunby is the 8 acres of formal gardens and following major work last year they will be filled with seasonal colour throughout this year. There is also an excellent tea-room in the stableyard. Gunby Hall is now open from 11.00 to 5.00 on Wednesdays and Sundays until the end of October with additional opening on Mondays and Tuesdays between 5th May and 28th August. For details of the Leicester Association of National Trust members and its Talks Service for other organisations please call 0116 2229133.

Alan Tyler, Chairman

£2 commuter ticket to ride offer Lower price “commuter” tickets are being offered to people using park and ride services before 9am. The £2 tickets will be available from Monday, April 8 to Friday, April 19 for people travelling to Leicester and back from Birstall, Enderby and Meynell’s Gorse. All travellers need to do is hand a special voucher to drivers to get the discount. These are available to download via: http://quicksilverbus.co.uk/promos or by calling 0116 305 0002. They can also be found in the latest edition of the County Council’s Leicestershire Matters magazine which is delivered to homes across the county. Services run from 7am to 7pm, Monday to Saturday. For more information visit: www.quicksilverbus.co.uk

• Yew DINING PEDESTAL DROP LEAF TABLE, extends to 5 feet. Plus 4 matching upholstered chairs. Price: £65 • Yew NEST OF 3 SMALL TABLES Price: £35 Tel: 0116 287 8651 Trading Standards Advice Sellers of second hand electrical goods are responsible for ensuring the goods meet legal safety requirements and sellers may be liable to pay compensation if they sell unsafe goods and they cause injury or damage. If the equipment you are selling complies with an acceptable standard for example, a British/European Standard - it will normally meet safety requirements.If you sell second hand electrical goods which are unsafe or incorrectly labelled and you haven’t taken reasonable precautions to avoid this, you may be prosecuted.

Advertise Your Unwanted Household Items For Sale Free To Spotlight Readers! Send us the details in writing - BY POST OR EMAIL - with the cost of the item and your contact phone number for the display box, together with your home address for our purposes only (not for publication). Max price: £300.

The boy that used to bully me at school still takes my lunch money. He serves up a great burger and fries.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Jottings

News in Brief with Norman Griffiths

Assault and burglary - Police appeal for information Groby is considered by the police to be a relatively safe low crime area, but March was not a good month with two more serious incidents that made the news.

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At about 2.30am on Saturday 30th March, a 33-year-old woman was attacked as she walked on a footpath between Laundon Way and Windsor Avenue in the village. The attacker pushed her against a fence and tried to undo her clothes. However, he fled when the woman shouted for help. The attacker was between 5 ft 6 and 5 ft 8 inches tall, and of slim build. “It is very unusual for this kind of offence to be committed, let alone in an area of very low crime,” said Detective Constable 813 Gary Dickenson, who is investigating the case. “The woman managed to scare off the attacker at an early stage, but it was very upsetting for her. I would like to hear from anyone who saw the incident, or saw a man acting suspiciously in the area that morning.” Anyone with any information is asked to contact Detective Constable Dickenson on 101, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer’s identification number 0813. The other incident was earlier in the month, on Wednesday 6th March at around 2.30am. A large

quantity of rings and necklaces were taken from a shop in Ratby Road. “I would like to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious, but also from anyone who has been offered jewellery for sale in suspicious circumstances or knows anyone who has recently acquired any rings or necklaces,” said DC Niké Diaper, who is investigating the incident . “Also I would like to hear from people who work in the second hand jewellery trade and have been offered similar items for sale.” Anyone with information is asked to contact DC 4203 Niké Diaper on 101 and follow the instructions to leave a message for an officer. When prompted key in her identification number 4203. Information about either incident can also be reported to Crimestoppers, which is free and anonymous on 0800 555 111. Some mobile phone providers may charge for the call.

The Mayor cycles for charity Groby Borough Councillor Martin Cartwright will be hoping for good weather for the weekend of April 20/21. As his year as Mayor of Hinckley and Bosworth draws to a close he is planning a cycle ride from Groby to the Leicester Children’s Holiday Home in Mablethorpe as a fund raising event to add to the thousands already raised for his nominated Mayoral charities. He aims to complete the trip over two days, with an overnight stop at Sleaford. The sponsored cycle ride

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A driver crashed her 4 x 4 whilst listening to Adele on the radio. She was rolling in the jeep.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069 will start from Pine Tree Avenue at 9.30 am. Anyone who wants to know more about sponsorship, the Mayor’s charity appeal, or to join the ride can contact Martin on 07850 707050.

Affordable Housing survey A three year search by the Rural Housing Enabler for land in Groby suitable for a small development of affordable housing failed to find a suitable site in 2010, but there has now been a new survey to assess current needs. The response was good and 800 questionnaires were returned. These are now being analysed by the organiser, Rural Housing Enabler Richard Windley, who will present a report to Groby Parish Council.

Parking regulations update The final report is being presented for consideration by the Cabinet at Leicestershire County Council, and there is likely to be more news next month. It seems that it has been known for Cabinet to not ratify a report so there is always a chance that a scheme could get withdrawn even at this stage, or have to be revised. This would involve another round of consultations if appropriate. If it is ratified then the yellow lines may be in place before the July heatwave, or the July floods, whichever way the weather decides to go next. The only absolute certainty at this stage is that the officers responsible at County Hall are doing everything they can within the constraints of the legislation to get the proposals

Badger Baiting Discovered Millennium in the Charnwood Forest Green News The Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust have recently discovered evidence of badger baiting in the Charnwood Forest near Coalville. A badger sett was discovered which had been dug out and then refilled. The disturbed soil contained badger fur which indicated that one or more badgers may have been killed. Badger baiting has been illegal for over 170 years due the horrendous suffering caused to badgers and the dogs used to bait them. Badgers are normally caught in their setts by blocking the exits and then sending a dog in to corner the badger. The baiters dig down to find the badger. This can often mean digging a hole over 6ft deep. Once found the badger is maimed in order to prevent it killing the dogs too quickly. This usually takes the form of breaking the badger’s jaw or legs with a shovel. The badger is then thrown back into the hole or taken to a prepared location and one or more dogs are set on it in a fight to the death. A spokesman for the Trust said “This is a shocking discovery. This sort of sick blood sport should not have a place in modern life. Unfortunately the people that do this think that digging a wild animal out of the ground, maiming it and watching it fighting dogs is entertainment. To every sane person this would be deemed to be abhorrent. The types of individuals that do this are serious violent criminals. We would urge people to be vigilant when out in the countryside and to report any suspicious activity to the police.” The RSPCA and Police have been contacted and photographic evidence was taken at the scene. The sett in question and those in the surrounding area have been put under regular surveillance and remote cameras will be deployed in the near future. The Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust are asking people to be vigilant and report suspicious activity including: • People carrying spades (sometimes fold away spade in bags or rucksacks) when out walking. • People taking small terrier type dogs near badger setts. Look out for radio collars on the dogs as they use this to locate the dog in the sett. • Any signs of recent digging activity on a badger sett.

Our programme of events for 2013 got off to a disappointing start when we had to cancel the Table Top Sale booked for March 23rd because of early morning snow.

The roads were difficult in some areas and pavements were treacherous so we felt this was the only course of action. Most stall-holders appreciated our caution so thanks to them for their understanding. On Easter Saturday the wind blew from the north-east, the snow fell and it was very muddy but 55 children and families braved the elements to join in our Easter Egg Hunt. The sun did also shine for some of the time. Lots of eggs were won and hot cross buns and hot chocolate were very popular afterwards. The first 100 Club draw took place and the winning number (40) won £70. There are numbers available if you wish to support us. Details are available by phoning 0116 2991868. The Plant Sale is taking place this year on Saturday May 25th on the Millennium Green from 10.30am to noon. This is your chance to buy all sorts of plants at reasonable prices – providing we do get some warm weather before then! You can also donate any of your own surplus plants to us. Please deliver them to the Green on the morning of the sale or phone 0116 2991868 for us to collect them. At the Plant Sale we will be announcing the winner of our latest ‘fiendish’ quiz. If you would like the chance to win the prize of a £20 gardening voucher phone 0116 2879705 and we will arrange to let you have a quiz sheet. The closing date for this is May 4th so don’t delay.

Chris Tordoff

Apparently Marti Pellow has discovered he’s got Arthritis. He feels it in his fingers, he feels it in his toes.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Fairtrade Fortnight in Groby Schools & Churches

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Following the success of last year’s School’s involvement in Fairtrade and the enthusiasm shown by the young people taking part, the scheme was extended this year into a collaboration between Martinshaw and Elizabeth Woodville Primary Schools plus the two village Churches, the Parish Church and the United Reformed Church. Year 6 teachers from both Schools delivered lessons exploring the purpose and benefits of Fairtrade, including a lively debating game where groups of children, aged 10 and 11 years, took on the role of the various groups involved in the supply chain for the sale of bananas. They were given the task of considering the cost of the bananas at each stage of the chain and were shocked to find that in the case of non-Fairtrade goods, two thirds of the money remains with the wealthy consuming countries. They learned what this inequality meant for the farm workers, restricting access to schooling, medical care and basic clean water compared to how they themselves lived here in Groby. Many commented quite strongly on the unfairness of it all. Children from both schools produced a collage of art work depicting the range of goods which are now Fairly Traded. The work was displayed at the Co-op and Budgens as part of the Fairtrade promotion. The year 6 pupils then led assemblies, with the support of Rev. Sue and Vicar Louise, for key Stage 2 classes and by means of sketches passed on to their peers the importance of Fairtrade and what they had learned about the benefits to the producers and farmers. The success of this years initiative has already led to discussions about extending and developing the work with the schools next year.

Owen Lawrence

Preparations underway for St. George’s Day event FINAL preparations are now underway to celebrate St George’s Day with a special programme of traditional entertainment in Hinckley town centre. Flags and bunting are already decorating the town, creating a festive atmosphere in readiness for the event on Saturday 20 April 2012. Entertainment will take place in Market Place from 10am until 3pm. During the day there will be family activities including a children’s historical and craft workshop, St George and dragon street entertainment act, Morris dancers and Punch and Judy. The Saturday market will also be bustling. All activities are free. Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council’s Events and Town Centre Co-ordinator Sherrilee Fahey said: “There is something for all ages to experience while enjoying the town’s shops and market stalls. Come along and bring your family and friends to the Hinckley St Georges day event.” This is the eighth year that the Borough Council, supported by the Town Centre Partnership, has organised events to celebrate St George’s Day.

My girlfriend drew a map of India then asked, “Does Mumbai look big in this?”

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Groby Allotments Society News

From John Thornton

It is 27th March as I sit at my lap-top and the snow is several inches deep. Many years ago when I first had my plot, a very experienced gardener said to me: ‘Boy always get your parsnip seed in the ground during March’, I wonder what he would have said now had he been alive. He was before ‘Global Warming’ though, but I heard today on the radio that we are soon in for a heat-wave. We deserve one after this winter. Talking to farmers at Melton Market they are worried as they cannot prepare the ground for planting potatoes, it is too wet and cold. There is a set time when seeds need to be in the ground to guarantee a successful crop. To we allotment folk if we lose a crop, well so be it, but to farmers it is disaster, lets hope it changes soon. When it does there are some new seeds on the market which are worth looking out for. A runner bean ‘Firestorm’ from Marshalls, which is self-fertile so does not need a visit from a bee to produce a crop. Also I read that it does well in all weathers. Just what we need. One other new seed of interest to us is a downy mildew resistant onion ‘Santero’ from Thompson & Morgan. Downy mildew is what the name describes, white whiskers around the base of the onion globe which will cause the onion to rot in storage. This disease can be spread on your shoes from one plot to another If you think you would like an allotment, given time yours could look like this. or by growing in the same area every year, which, on a small plot, sometimes cannot be avoided. Once you have got it there is very little you can do about it, until now. Due to a higher than normal turnover this year there are still a few plots available on Ratby Road site for letting now. If you are interested please complete your application form, downloaded from the Society’s website, http://www.grobyallotmentsociety.tk/ , and deliver it as requested. Applications will be dealt with on a first come first served basis. If you are not online you can ring me on 01162 876 087 or the Secretary on 01162 313 148. One further point is that you must reside within the Groby parish. We do still have a waiting list but these are people who are waiting for specific plots or deferring themselves until they are ready. All we have to do is to wait. This weather cannot go on for ever.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

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Urban Saints is held during term time, at the URC chapel: games, friends, crafts and a Christian basis to discussions. - for 5’s to 14’s on Mon evenings at 3.45pm, 6.30pm or 7.45pm - for 15-18’s on Wed evenings at 7.30pm - for 15-18’s o Fri at 7.30pm

Christian Aid Week is 12 – 18 May and the two churches will be distributing and collecting envelopes as in previous years. If we don’t manage to call in your street, all is not lost. Drop a donation in to either church, in a clearly marked envelope. The Groby collections are always very successful; we regularly raise over £4,000 …let’s keep it that way! Information about Christian Aid’s work is available at www.christianaid.org.uk There’s a lot we can do.

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For further information please see websites and church magazines St. Philip and St. James www.bradgateteam.org.uk Revd. Louise Corke 231 3090 United Reformed Church www.grobyurc.com Revd Sue McKenzie 232 1733

I saw an inflatable ATM machine today. The screen said ‘Please do not enter PIN’.

Catch meets for play, craft, story & chat for pre-school children with a parent or carer. Every Friday in term time, 9.30-11.30am, at the URC.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

The chill wind that blows from Westminster Norman Griffiths reports on the latest development in the Bloors saga

It’s been the topic of conversation for weeks, but hopefully will have eased by the time this Spotlight drops through your letterbox. The Jet Stream position and the cold wind from the east has dragged out the winter into what we normally expect to be spring. But anyone standing watching the sheep in the field that Bloors want to develop next to Groby cemetery may sense another chill wind – one that won’t just affect Groby for 2013 but could have repercussions for every subsequent year and every subsequent generation. Back in December 2012 the Planning Inspector heard the appeal by Bloors against the refusal of planning permission for a housing development on the land. The Spotlight reported that if the builder was successful local residents may be left wondering whether they have been flattened by a virtual bulldozer or trampled under a coach and horses. The virtual bulldozer is the need for housing and the belief by some that it is the Government view that only the construction industry can save the economy. This has led to a new streamlined version of planning legislation that has a presumption in favour of sustainable development at its heart. However, if a council can demonstrate that it has a 5 year supply of sites suitable for development it may still have grounds to say no, though developers who can validly challenge the 5 year supply figures can drive a coach and horses through a decision to refuse planning permission.

Pessimism then relief There was fairly widespread pessimism about the likely outcome of the appeal but the ink was hardly dry on the Spotlight when the report of the Inspector came in record time supporting the decision of the Borough Council. Anxiety turned to relief amongst those who oppose the development, despite the knowledge that there was still an element of risk. Bloors have now made a challenge on legal, not planning, grounds to seek an order from the High Court quashing the decision of the Planning Inspector. Having come this far and spent so much money on a series of planning applications for the site it is clearly good commercial sense for the company to spend a little more challenging the decision to try and clear the final hurdle. When the Inspector’s decision was awaited the view amongst those who know about these things was that it could go either

way. After a hearing which lasted days the speed of the decision was a surprise, as was its length – just 5 pages. Bloors legal team will probably have carefully analysed those 5 pages and reviewed all the evidence of the hearing. To use a term like ‘forensic examination’ of the evidence at the appeal hearing and the report of the Inspector may sound rather over dramatic, but the stakes are high. Given the legal resources and expertise in dealing with such matters available to the company their legal challenge may contain plenty for the High Court to consider. So now the wait for a decision starts all over again. And it may be a long wait. “These things can take ages – William Davis and Jelson challenged an adverse appeal decision for their site at Coalville and it took 13 months to get a date,” a spokesman for Bloors commented.

The chill wind from Westminster Hopefully our weather may be improving but the chill wind from Westminster is set to blow for some time as the Government pins its hopes of an economic recovery on the building industry and reform of the planning rules. With the debate over a five year supply of sites in the Borough Council area still continuing the comments of Nick Boles,

the Planning Minister, will not comfort those who want to retain the field as open countryside. The Daily Telegraph reports that he told senior figures from the property industry that only if councils had “five years supply of immediately developable and deliverable sites” would they “get to make the decisions.” If they haven’t the Planning Inspector will make the decisions“ - according to the policies in the NPPF and the presumption of sustainable development.” On the other hand his comments may please developers, their employees, their materials suppliers and their potential customers. To misquote the old saying it’s a chill Westminster wind that blows nobody any good.

Playwright to attend Bradgate Drama Society Production Bradgate Drama society’s latest production is ‘Where there’s a Will’, a black comedy by Ian Hornby. Ian is a founder member of Playwright’s Co-operative, a project launched in 1997 to encourage the writing and production of new theatrical works by both amateur and professional writers. Members of the co-operative are always interested in seeing their works in production and Ian has confirmed that he will be attending the Saturday performance of his play. This has created some nervous tension amongst the cast but they are nevertheless confident that what he sees will bear a reasonably close resemblance to what he wrote. If you too would like to see the play which, without giving too much of the plot away, involves a fairly high body count amongst the cast, performances are on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 25th, 26th and 27th April in Newtown Linford Village Hall. Tickets are £7.50 and can be obtained from Sally Cook on 01530 242263 or bradgate.drama@gmail. com

Did you hear about the bloke who got drunk and collapsed in a heap next to the bar? It caused a major delay in the gymnastics competition. I gave an odd-job man a list of 10 things to do around the house, but he only did numbers 1,3,5,7 and 9. The condition of the patient who complained about the hospital food, the bed, the ward and the nurses was described last night as ‘highly critical’. Police are hunting a ‘Knitting Needle Nutter’, who stabbed six people in the backside recently. They believe the attacker could be following some kind of pattern.

My mate’s got breasts on the brain. Shocking plastic surgery.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

The Class of 61 conclusion

Phil Symons recalls how he and his life long friend John Hughes made a nostalgic trip through Groby It’s great to be able to report that some fellow members of the Class of 61 have been in touch with Phil and John. If you were in the Class of 61 you can contact them at jandm.hughes@btinternet.com.

There’s sadness as well

Martinshaw moments

We make our way from ‘The Stanny’, up the hill to the village Church, to pay an old mate a visit.

This was the third and final seat of learning we attended pre high school.

This was the same journey we had sadly made back in 1981. Clive Pitt, another of the original class of ’61, was cruelly taken from us in that year, a victim of Leukaemia at the tender age of 25. John and I recalled two abiding memories of that day at the funeral. One was the huge array of friends and family who had gathered (no surprise as Clive was as gentle and kind a guy you could hope to meet), and secondly the dignity and courage shown by Clive’s adoring parents Pam and Ernie, as they found the inner strength to smile and thank each and everyone of us for attending their only child’s funeral. A lot of valuable, but hard, lessons were learnt that day. How fitting then, that today the sun shone on Clive’s headstone as John and I recalled the hilarious moments that our old mate could conjure up with his practical jokes and impressions. Poignant as it was, considering his total hair loss due to his treatment; his ‘Kojak’ was brilliant, as was his Derek Guyler. Cheers Clive.

Scouting - fun then, fun now Heading out of the village, our next port of call is the Scout Hut. Was it still there? Well the old gravel path that we used to walk or cycle up was blocked by new buildings. So back to the main road and a scramble up the grassy bank, through the small wooded area, and there it was. As luck would have it, due to a children’s party, the hut was open, and we were welcomed in by Paul, the current Scout leader and his able assistant, Sean. The old building was exactly as it had been when John and I were Sixer and Seconder respectively (he always was in charge) of the Otter Patrol, Leicester 73rd Scout Troop (circa 1970, the date of this photo). If truth be known, I joined the Scouts purely on the premise that after meetings, a five-a-side football game usually broke out, sometimes for up to two hours. I am glad I joined though as the camaraderie and feeling of being part of a group was great. I loved

Outside the Scout Hut - Now (top) and back in 1970-ish! building zip wires through the trees, the raucous singing around the camp fire and the swimming and canoeing in the old Lawn Wood quarry. But best of all were the camping trips, usually to the Peak District, in the old Army lorry. No health and safety regulations back then. Sean and Paul had heard tales of “Bosun” driving the old vehicle here, there and everywhere with an entire troop of us lads hanging on for dear life in the back. Seat belts ? No chance. Hang onto the tailgate and hope for the best. Great times.

As were the Scout discos. Saturday nights spent trying to pluck up the courage to ask the local girls to dance to T Rex, Slade, Creedence Clearwater Revival and the various Motown acts of that era, were often interrupted by the forbidding entrance of rival gangs from New Parks and Glenfield. Mayhem usually ensued. Fun times nevertheless. Thanking Paul and Sean, John and I set off on the short journey across the playing field (it was an ugly black slag heap back then) to take a look at Martinshaw School.

As the front gates were locked we could only view from afar. John mentioned he had one stand out memory of our days here. Three guesses. “Passing the eleven plus surely”, I said. After all, the thought of not being able to emulate our big sisters, Anne and Jane, and go to the Grammar School at Coalville didn’t bear thinking about. “No, try again”, said John. Honing our soccer skills with a tennis ball in the school playground or playing kiss chase with a feigned broken ankle? No. Ah, first interest in the opposite sex? My feelings for a certain young lady were kept a tight secret, though I’m guessing in hindsight she may have had an inkling of my affections - after all, she was the only girl I offered my lovehearts to (more goodies from the Post Office) whilst stammering with a crimson face! As an aside, earlier in the day John and I had mused how music plays the backing track to our lives. How certain songs can transport us back to an exact time and place. Any early Rolling Stones number and I’m back on the Waltzers at the fair that used to come to the field behind Dr. Small’s surgery at the top of Ratby Road. I can recall the great excitement and expectation of a new single due to be released by the Beatles, Kinks, Hendrix and The Who. Just the guitar intro to ‘Waterloo Sunset’, even before Ray Davies opens his mouth and I’m back in that classroom, trying in vain to be cool as I offer ‘her’ my confectionery. But I digress, no John’s overriding memory of Martinshaw was us charging down the school hall full pelt, dropping onto our backsides and sliding right off the end of the highly polished floor, down the flight of steps and landing in a heap at the front entrance doors of the school. The risk of performing this feat had to be weighed up against that of being caught by the lurking School Secretary, Mrs Morris, who would march us off by the ear to her even more feared husband, the headmaster. But then what was a slap across the legs with a ruler compared to the unbridled joy of “the slide”?

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Field Head, here we come Off next to the Field head, but time was against us. There was less than an hour left before we were due to be picked up by John’s wife, Margaret, and taken off for some much needed sustenance. We were still in Groby, and the plan was for the ‘tour’ to end in Markfield, a good three miles away. As luck would have it, a bus arrived at that very moment, and off we went. Lucky “chaps” we joked. Having been dropped off outside John’s old family home, he stopped to chat to a couple of old neighbours as if he’d never left. I went ahead, as any good scout would, to “get them in” at the Coach and Horses, John’s old local. No sign of Arthur the old barman in his white jacket and black bow tie, or David Lane the landlord. A friendly young barmaid served us with our pints of Tiger, just as those aforementioned gentlemen had years ago. She looked slightly bemused as two middle aged punters took photographs of each other in the bar, recreating poses from times past. She directed us to an old photograph of the pub from around a hundred years ago – I’m not sure just how old she thought we were! Margaret arrived to whisk us away to the Queens Head in Markfield, where we swiftly downed another pint, Pedigree this time, whilst

chatting to some old footballing colleagues. I think we’d still be there if we hadn’t previously booked a table at the Curry house where my wife Nikki and daughter Hannah were patiently waiting. Having downed another couple of beverages and a splendid ‘Ruby’ (should that now be ‘Andy’?) and after watching Mo Farrar glide to gold in the Olympics 5000 metre final, we ended a perfect day.

You can do it as well... As we were driven to our respective homes, it struck me that our celebratory tour had barely covered the first half of our 50 year friendship, leaving much scope for future expeditions, maybe to the hotspots of such far flung places as Leicester and Coalville – maybe even Torquay, Benidorm and Lloret de Mar. All places we visited, along with our other great mates Roger and Nigel, purely for cultural and historic interest of course! But that was for another day. I would thoroughly recommend to anyone looking to mark a milestone in their life to revisit some of the people and places who form the fabric of their history. Thanks John, a true and loyal friend. Here’s to the next 50 years!

Next month we’ll be printing their class photo again and Phil and John will be putting names to as many faces as they can. If you missed earlier episodes of this story you can catch up at www.grobyonline.tk.

Proving They’re Not Dead Yet! We’re Not Dead Yet Writers, a group of nine authors all aged over 60 but proving to be exciting new writing talents, have come up with 16 superb short stories in their debut book Twists in the Tales, which was launched on Saturday April 6th. The writers are all members of Eastbourne Seniors Club. A mixture of humour, thrills and sexual intrigue keep readers guessing in Twists in the Tales, which is enjoying excellent reviews. Subjects range from crime, trickery, entrapment, greed and desire to fear, murder, fantasy, death and the after life. Twists in the Tales, published by Eastbourne company My Voice Publishing, priced £6.99, will soon be available on Amazon as both a paperback and an e-book.

Go Barn Dancing and help Emma raise funds! Local teenager Emma Critchley, a ranger with Markoby Rangers, has been selected to represent GirlGuiding Leicestershire on an international trip around Europe in the summer. As part of a group the girls have Emma Critchley invites you to a .. to visit at least three countries and as many places within them beginning with the letter ‘B’. During the trip there are also various other challenges that have to be completed such as having a photograph with a policeman in every country, eating with a local Markfield Community Centre scout/guide group and visiting a Saturday 13th April 2013 place of worship. 7:30pm-11pm. As a condition of attending, the RSVP: 01530 245439. girls have to raise the money for the The money raised will go to my trip themselves. Emma has already Jailbreak trip fund and also the held a coffee morning, taken part charity ‘Over The Wall’. I really hope you can come and have a great night. in bag packing and served tables at Get your barn dancing boots on!! a burns night in order to help her achieve her target. * Tickets £7 adult £4 child or £20 family (2 adults, 2 children). Ploughman's supper provided and there’s a bar to buy drinks from. The next event Emma is holding is a Barn Dance at Markfield Community Centre on April 13th at 7:30pm. Tickets are £7 adult, £4 child or a family ticket of 2x2 for £20; included in the price is a ploughman’s supper. Proceeds from the evening will be equally split between funding Emma’s trip and the national charity ‘Over The Wall’. This charity provides lifechanging experiences to children and young people aged 8-17 who are affected by serious and life limiting illnesses. Contact for tickets 01530 245439.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

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WHAT IS CF? · CF is a faulty gene that controls the movement of salt and water in and out of the cells within the body and causes sticky mucus to form in nearly all of the organs, particularly clogging up the lungs – making it hard to breathe. · The disease is progressive and each respiratory infection will cause irreversible damage to his lungs. Life expectancy is reduced for a person with CF – only half of the CF population will live past the age of 41. · Each week 5 babies are born with Cystic Fibrosis and each week 2 young lives are lost to Cystic Fibrosis. · It also affects the digestive system, making it hard to digest food and gain weight. LIVING WITH CF · Throughout his life, maintaining his lung function will be an ongoing struggle and he will fight life threatening lung infections constantly. He will also suffer with malabsorption and malnourishment and be a high risk for CF related diabetes and arthritis. · CF means hospital admissions, blood tests, x-rays, cough swabs, IV antibiotics and taking lots of medication for the rest of his life. · He endures daily breathing treatments and physiotherapy to try to keep his lungs healthy. WHAT WE - HIS FAMILY - ARE TRYING TO ACHIEVE · We are currently raising money to buy Elliott a much needed physio vest which will dramatically change his life. The vest vibrates to loosen & thin mucus on the lungs. · Having a vest will mean freedom for Elliott as he can have his physio whilst doing pretty much anything he wants. Also when Elliott is poorly, he will be very weak and struggle to use his current mode of physio. The vest will solve this problem. · Unfortunately these vests are not provided on the NHS and are very expensive (in the region of £7,000 + VAT). HOW WE HOPE TO DO IT · Some of his family and friends are taking part in the Trans Pennine Walk on 22/23 June. Manchester to Sheffield – 100K – 24 Hours – ‘Team Elliott’! · We would really like to get everyone involved in raising money for Elliott so that he can have a brighter future. Anyone wishing to participate in the walk itself, please contact Stef (Elliott’s Dad) on 07775 562 592. HOW YOU CAN HELP US If you would like to help us raise the money needed for Elliott’s Physio Vest, donations are gratefully accepted in the following ways: · PayPal: apes.robin@btinternet.com (if you make a donation this way, could you please click on the ‘gift payment’ so that PayPal cannot take a % of your donation). · Cash/Cheques: Can be dropped into Dave Smith (who has very kindly agreed to allow his garden centre to be a collection point) at: Thornton Nurseries, Reservoir Road, Thornton. Please make cheques payable to ‘Elliott Raynor’. Please like, share and follow Elliott’s story on Facebook for more information on CF, Elliott’s personal journey and our fundraising events www.Facebook.com/Little-Elliott’s-Fight-Against-Cystic-Fibrosis http://youtu.be/vrwafDvYEeo

Just lately when I go out, some bird with long legs starts following me. I think I’m being Storked.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

EA N VE A E S L

Praise for local artist’s illustration of Richard III

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The discovery of King Richard III’s remains in Leicester has been covered extensively in the press, and most of us are now familiar with the painting of him in the National Portrait Gallery. Local artist, Mick Dolby, who lives in Field Head, was commissioned to produce a series of illustrations relating to the Battle of Bosworth Field - for book covers, promotional leaflets and an exhibition - during the 1990s. Mick has kindly allowed us to reproduce his striking image of King Richard III below. This illustration was highly praised by Dorothy Mitchell, of the Richard III Society, who commented: ‘I like your Richard better than the National Portrait.’

My wife complained today that I treat her like a child. I didn’t know how to react, so I gave her a gold star and a smiley face for sticking up for herself. After watching a few zombie films I’ve decided that, in the event of a zombie apocalypse, I’m going to be a cameraman because they never seem to attack them. I got a brass instrument for my birthday, but it’s still in it’s box. I’m not one to blow my own trumpet.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Look What’s On At The Palace, Ibstock 57 High Street, Ibstock, Leics. LE67 6LH • Tel: 01530 267303

~ Forthcoming Events ~

Those who give their time as volunteers for community projects or organisations are being sought to become part of a new advisory panel which will influence the way policing is delivered in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

Saturday, 13th April – Members of The Concordia Theatre Company present A Murder Mystery Evening. “Who killed the Vicar?” Doors, Box Office and Licensed Bar open at 7.00pm. Starts at 7.30pm. Tickets: £5.00, including refreshments, available from Halls, High Street, 01530 260460. Friday, 19th April - Film Night – ‘The Sapphires’ (PG). Based on a true story by Tony Briggs, the son of one of The Sapphires’ four members. It revolves around three young female Aboriginals who were kept segregated until 1967 and weren’t even regarded as human beings, instead classified as Flora and Fauna. They display a great prowess for singing, but realize that they will never know how far it can take them as long as they remain in their hometown. Doors, Box Office and Licensed Bar open at 7.00pm. Films start at 7.30pm. Tickets: £4.00/£3.00 from Halls, High Street, Tel: 01530 260460.

St. Peters Church, Copt Oak

Craft Fayre & Table Top Sale Sat. April 27th 1.00pm - 3.30pm at Copt Oak Memorial Hall (LE67 9QB) Light refreshments available 50p entrance, children free Further details

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Saturday, 20th April – ‘Family friendly’ St Georges Day Disco Party! With the fabulous John Robson Disco Roadshow! Party starts at 6.30pm until 10.00pm. FREE ADMISSION FOR CHILDREN UNDER 16 (Must be accompanied by an adult). Adults: £2.00 on the door. A family evening of ‘Cool Britannia’ with party games and prizes. Prizes for the best fancy dressed children and adults (Fancy dress optional). Sunday, 21st April – The Guitar Workshop Student Show case. 3 – 6pm. Entry on door £2.00. Licensed bar available. A great chance for students, of all ages, from the Workshop show what they can do!

New panel places volunteers at heart of crime prevention and community safety work

Friday, 26th April - Skittles Night with supper included. 7.30pm start. Tickets: £5.00 from Halls, High Street, Ibstock, Tel: 01530 260460 Friday, 10th May - Film Night – ‘Hope Springs’ (12A). After thirty years of marriage, a middle-aged couple attends an intense, weeklong counselling session to work on their relationship. Starring Meryl Streep and Tommy Lee Jones. Doors, Box Office and Licensed Bar open at 7.00pm. Film starts at 7.30pm. Tickets: £4.00/£3.00 from Halls, High Street, 01530 260460. Friday, 17th May – ‘The Ibstock Dolly Mixtures’ present ‘Fun and Frolics’, a musical review in aid of ‘The Air Ambulance Service’. Performance starts at 7.30pm. Tickets: £6.00 from Halls, Ibstock, Tel: 01530 260460 or from Lois on Tel: 01530 261686. Friday, 24th May - Film Night – ‘Quartet’ (12A) Dustin Hoffman directs a stellar cast in this bittersweet tale of ageing opera singers forced to face their mortality. ‘Moving, amusing and truthful’, starring Maggie Smith and Pauline Collins. Doors, Box Office and Licensed Bar open at 7.00pm. Film starts at 7.30pm. Tickets: £4.00/£3.00 from Halls, High Street, 01530 260460.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Leicestershire, Sir Clive Loader, is appealing for people or groups with an interest or previous experience in volunteering to become a member of a special forum to provide valuable feedback about the work they undertake and to shape and influence future crime prevention or community safety initiatives. In his first Police and Crime Plan, Sir Clive has made it clear that volunteers and other partners are an integral part of his strategy to make Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland a safer place to live and work. He said: “Volunteers already play a hugely important role in protecting the public, either directly or indirectly, and I am determined that their valuable contribution to crime prevention and community safety will only grow as we move forward,” he said. “These people give up precious free time to help our communities feel safer and more confident and bring fresh ideas and solutions. They often have a unique perspective on crime reduction. To find out more please contact police.commissioner@leics.pcc. pnn.gov.uk, phone 0116 229 8980 or go to the website: http://www. leics.pcc.police.uk/Take-Part/Getinvolved-with-Leicestershire-PCC.

I’ve decided to marry a pencil. I can’t wait to introduce the parents to my bride 2B.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Sacheverell Way lights – switch them on or leave them off? Norman Griffiths hears that not everyone wants the lights back on

Nearly 900 residents of Groby and Ratby have signed the petition to partially restore night time lighting to Sacheverell Way. Ratby Borough Councillor Ozzy O’shea handed the petition to Cllr David Slater the deputy lead member on Environment and Transport on Tuesday 2nd April at County Hall. But not everyone is happy about the representations that have been made to Leicestershire County Council, as they would prefer the lights to stay off. “I am extremely gratefully for the support that both Groby and Ratby residents have given to me over this community safety issue,” said Cllr O’shea. He is asking for alternate lights to be turned back on in the evenings until 0030am each morning and then back on again in the winter months from 0530am until daylight to protect children walking to school. As reported

last month the County Council had planned to remove the lamp standards, but have now agreed to defer a final decision until this summer. The petition has been given to the Director of Transport and Cllr O’Shea has been invited to present a copy of the petition to the Hinckley and Bosworth Highways Forum which is scheduled for the 5th June 2013 at 6pm. This meeting will be held in the chamber at the Hinckley& Bosworth Council offices. Argents Mead, Hinckley. “The meeting will be open to the public and I would urge residents to attend and support me,” he added. Leave our lights off campaign Meanwhile some residents who live near the road are alarmed at the prospect of the lights returning. “Turning the lights back on would have the biggest impact on those residents whose properties adjoin Sacheverell way, not those who transit the road.” said a local resident. “However, we (the

residents) have not been canvassed on the impact of turning the lights back on again.” The residents who oppose the switch-on argue that since the lights were turned off in 2010 there have been no overnight crimes or road traffic incidents attributed to the stretches of road without street lighting. They have estimated that the switch off has saved the County Council around £6,570 per annum, reduced carbon dioxide emissions by more than 20 tonnes a year and meant a reduction in overall light pollution. They believe there has been a traffic calming effect with reduction in both vehicle speeds and incidental noise and an increase in wellbeing of residents whose properties adjoin Sacheverell Way. They say this is demonstrated by improved sleep patterns (particularly for young children) because of the total darkness in bedrooms that back on to the main road. Residents also claim an

economic benefit as a result of a reduction in spending on blackout curtains / blinds and ask what cuts might come to other services if the savings made are reversed and perhaps extended to other communities who ask for their lights to be turned back on. “There is a Facebook page at facebook.com/ sacheverellwayleaveourlightsoff to allow the residents who want the lights to be left off to voice their opinions,” said a local resident. “Not everybody wants them back on again.” With several months to go before the County Council makes a final decision it looks as if the debate of this now controversial issue will roll on unless the parties involved reach some form of compromise.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Our members were privileged to hear and watch a wonderful presentation by Malcolm Wells demonstrating, together with Erin, the work of the charity Canine Partners. Erin was a heart-stealing soulful eyed golden labrador trained by this charity to assist people with disabilities such as MS, Forces Heroes etc. etc. enabling them to lead a more fulfilling and independent life. Apparently she did not quite make the grade as a fully-fledged Partner and lived with Malcolm as his pet, more than earning her keep by demonstrating the marvellous work the charity does. Partners is a small charity started on the south coast fifty years ago. Originally in a shed, then portakabins and now two bungalows. They now have another base in Osgathorpe, and 13 satellite connections throughout the country. Puppies are accepted at 8 weeks old and placed with volunteers who nurture them in a home environment, helping them to socialise in the community. If considered suitable candidates, at 14 to 18 months old they embark on a 15 week intensive training period. There are three basic commands to learn, touch, tug and retrieve. When offered an open hand the dog will immediately touch with the nose into the outstretched palm awaiting further instructions. Tug means pulling on a length of rope or strong cloth hard enough to bring the owner into a sitting or upright position. The strength of mouth needed to achieve this with a paralysed person was remarkable. Retrieve was self-explanatory. Malcolm had a basket containing such items as keys, remote controls, mobile phone etc. which the dog would fetch on command. We are all aware how many times we drop items; how frustrating it must be for a wheelchair user. A Canine Partner happily picks up and returns to touch. They will operate light switches, open and close doors, including cupboard doors, always closing them after retrieving objects, pick up a ringing phone, load a washing machine. They assist from bed or chair to wheelchair operating the footplates and brake as necessary. Erin was able to assist with undressing, gently removing gloves, and taking off a zipped jacket. At this point Malcolm declined to do the Full Monty for us but I am confident this could be achieved. Obviously a dog cannot fully replace a human carer but their great advantage is that they are on duty 24/7. Malcolm said that in his opinion bitches made better Partners, they tended to be more

Groby WI News intelligent and anxious to please. Groby W.I. members puffed up with pride at this admission but we always knew that the female of the species was superior. Chosen owners pay £1 for legal ownership of their dog and pay Insurance to cover vet fees. The dogs are retired at 12 years old. I am sure there is no lack of homes offered for them to live out their days. There is a long list of applicants and an approximate 2 year waiting time to be given a Canine Partner. The charity are now entering into a joint venture with dogs for blind and hearing disabilities. After lots of pats we spontaneously passed around Erin’s bowl, as a thank you for such a lovely evening, I am sure the charity benefited from Malcolm and Erin’s visit to Groby W.I. Malcolm was a charming young man. Not only could each of us have taken Erin home but his owner would have been very welcome too. • About a month ago, as I told you, ladies from Groby WI did a snowdrop walk in Dimminsdale Wood and the weather was wonderful. Well, we did another this month and again in wonderful weather. This time it was from Melbourne, parking along side Melbourne Hall and Church. Before setting off our Derbyshire friend showed us around the Church of St. Michael and St. Mary a wonderful place. It was built about 1120 and more or less remains as it was built, I can really recommend a visit. Then we wound our way through little alleys all the while getting local info from Christine. Did you know Thomas Cook was born here? Whilst only a large rock appropriately inscribed remains of his home, the Thomas Cook Memorial Cottages in High Street remain. He had l4 cottages built in 1890 along with a bakehouse, a laundry and Mission Hall. They still provide accommodation for some of Melbourne’s senior citizens. Eventually we got to Cockshut Lane, this is a long road from Melbourne towards Ticknall, locally known as The Common. On the way we passed a track leading to The Butts. It was explained that the Butts were special places for archery training. A law was passed in 1252 requiring all Englishmen between l5 and 60 years to equip themselves with bows and arrows. Another later law made it obligatory to practice their skills every Sunday. Apparently these laws led to many accidents when “loose” arrows found the wrong target. A little further we turned down a lane which led to the back

a dozen young women, some fully qualified Council maintenance staff and some young apprentices. All appeared to enjoy their work. We moved around the room, having a of Staunton Harold Reservoir. It was a go at papering, simple electrics and great walk, amazingly dry and sunny. plumbing. The idea is to encourage We finished up at the Reservoir Car young women to become Park, after which we joined the main apprenticed in maintenance. road to cross across a field back One lady, who was rather on the into the Village. Changing our boots large size and extremely friendly, we drove back to Staunton Harold preferred to do plumbing and her Nursery Café where a welcome speciality was pipe bending, and cuppa and a bit of a nosh up went could she bend pipes - apparently down very well. she is always in demand. A very There’s a tavern in the town where different and enjoyable evening the WI Leicester Ladies hold their with young women from Leics. meetings. They are mostly younger Ladies and the Leicester Council working women who are very “with maintenance team. it”. Anyway at the last minute they Next month’s meeting is Helen had to cancel January’s meeting Osborne from Church View because of snow so got together a Nursery. Our meeting, as usual, will special one. This was at the Leics. be at the Village Hall on Thursday City Council’s training centre for 18th April at 7.30pm, all welcome. apprentices etc. Hence five of us We finished off our monthly went along to see what’s what. I activities with a visit to Beaumanor have a husband who is very “handy” Hall for another Pie Night. It was a which means whenever I attempt lovely large pie but when will this to have a go at fixing a job in the torture end, obesely yours! house, he says leave it to him, so I am pretty useless. There were about Evelyn and Margaret

Groby WI Programme 2013 •

April 18th: Church View Nursery - Helen Osborne

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May 16th: Resolutions - Breast Care Presentation

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June 20th: Birthday - 60th Birthday Dinner at Beaumanor Hall

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July 18th: Librarian To The Rich & Famous At Royal Ascot - Penny Hodgson

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August 15th: Laughter Yoga Leader - Marlies Flintham

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September 19th: Introduction To Herbs - Lynne Jan-Watson

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October 17th: Helping Hedgehogs - Colleen Powel

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November 21st: AGM - Social Evening

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December 12th: Christmas Meeting Local Walks Last Wednesday In The Month At 2pm Derbyshire Walks – To Be Arranged By Margaret Gamble

Last night I fell asleep on a bed of rice. I was out as soon as my head hit the pilau.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Be a hero and help raise money for Rainbows! People in Leicestershire are being urged to take to the skies, dress as a superhero or lace up their walking boots to raise funds for Rainbows Hospice. Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People in the East Midlands needs Supermen, Batmen and Wonder Women to sign up to its 10,000ft skydive on Sunday 28 April at Langar Airfield. The event is part of Children’s Hospice Week, the UK’s only awareness and fundraising week for children with lifelimiting conditions and the services that support them. It takes place between April 26 and May 3. Those not so keen on heights can still get involved by dusting off their superhero suit and taking part in Superhero Friday, a special day of hero inspired fundraising on May 3. Rainbows needs people to dress as a superhero and make a donation, sponsor a friend or colleague to wear fancy dress for the day, or take part in a Superhero Sweepstake. Supporters of Children’s Hospice Week can also take part in the Walk of Life on Sunday 19 May around Leicester, starting at Leicestershire County Cricket Club, in Grace Lane. Entry is £5 and people can take on a five or 15 mile walk. Katie Baxter, event manager at Rainbows, said: “There are many ways people can help us during Children’s Hospice Week. Daredevils can jump from an aeroplane, creative types can go to work dressed as superheroes, the more domesticated can have a heroic cake sale or the outdoorsy people can take on a walk. We have so many fundraising ideas on our website and can help you pick one that suits you best.” Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People, based in Loughborough, provides care and support to children with life-limited illnesses and their families. By being a hero in Children’s Hospice Week, people in Leicestershire can help raise funds for these vital local services. This year Rainbows will be raising awareness of how whole families are affected. Its services such as sibling support helps brothers and sisters to share common experiences through special groups and activities. Patricia Brookes, director of fundraising at Rainbows, added: “We are delighted to be teaming up with Together for Short Lives, the national charity leading Children’s Hospice Week. We hope that as many people, companies, groups and schools get involved and become superheroes. By dressing up, taking part in a skydive or signing up to the Walk of Life, you will be helping us. “Without the backing of our supporters, volunteers and donations, we wouldn’t be able to provide care for children with life-limiting conditions and their families.” For more information, visit www.childrenshospiceweek.org.uk and www. rainbows.co.uk/hospiceweek contact Beccy May on 0800 952 1133 or email beccy.may@rainbows.co.uk

Tease violent muggers by wearing headphones down a dark alleyway but having no iPod for them to steal.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Letter from Uncle Eustace

Beware those modern choruses The Rectory St. James the Least My dear Nephew Darren

I am afraid we shall have to agree to disagree on yet another topic – although I suspect the list of items we agree to agree on would be considerably shorter. I like to think my appreciation of hymns resembles a connoisseur of fine wines savouring a grand cru claret, yours seems to resemble a Russian female tractor driver who is a Hero of the Nation. We at St. James the Least are more than happy with “Hymns Ancient & Modern” – the original 1861 edition, naturally - the later editions display a dangerous tendency towards modernism. Sadly, St. Paul was not able to sing “Onward, Christian soldiers,” but I am sure he regretted the fact that it had yet to be written. The hymns our grandparents pretended to sing when they were in church are quite good enough for the ones we pretend to sing when we sit in the same pews. At least when we come to the last verse, we know that we can then sit down, mission accomplished. The last time I attended your church, just as I saw the last words and therefore the finishing line of one of your choruses coming into sight, we were told it would be splendid to sing the thing another three times. At least it gave me another analogy to use when I next preached on eternity in hell. And your method of singing would plunge our congregation into an existential crisis. What do they do with their hands when they don’t have books to hold and are obliged to look at a screen? To be deprived of being able to hold a book in church is like a smoker who is trying to give up being unable to grasp a cigarette when in the pub. The ladies do not know whether to clasp their handbags, which then makes it look as if they suspect the rest of the congregation of theft, or to hold some flowers, which looks a little too matrimonial. The men experiment with putting hands in pockets, which they then realise looks scruffy, so they try to hold on to the pew in front, which is inevitably too low, so they have to adopt some form of half crouch, which makes them look as if they have recently had hernia operations. Your choral tradition – if I can flatter it with such a description – also seems to require half an hour before the Service spent singing for our congregation, that time is more usefully spent discussing Government incompetence, livestock prices and why Miss Threlfall always wears a red felt hat with her tangerine coat. Should we ever have a joint Service, I can’t imagine how we’ll all get through the first hymn together. Your loving uncle,

Eustace

Plea for more men!

The Anstey Players who meet on Friday evenings are looking for more actors to join them, especially men. If you are free on Fridays and would like to have a go at treading the boards, or helping out in the background, please contact us soon as possible. Our next play, a comedy called ‘Cheshire Cats’ will be performed at the U.R.C. in Anstey from the 6th to the 8th June, with hopefully an extra charity performance on Wednesday 5th June. The play is about five women who have a girlie weekend away in London and speedwalk the London Moonwalk raising money and awareness for Breast Cancer. What should be a funny, moving and emotional play which will make you laugh, proceeds from the raffle on each night will go to a Breast Cancer charity. For more information about tickets or to join our friendly group, please contact Terrie on 07939 109162 or 0116 287 6322 asap please.

Why you should snoop on your child ... What is your child doing on the internet and who – and what – are they texting? Parents should ‘snoop’ on their child’s texts and social media messages, says David Cameron’s new adviser on childhood, Claire Perry, MP.

Mrs Perry, who has three children, finds it ‘bizarre’ that parents regard their children’s internet and texting activity as ‘private’, when the dangers of going online are so well documented. Would they leave their children alone for hours on end in a roomful of total strangers, and consider it no concern of theirs, as the parents? Society has become ‘complicit’, she says, in allowing a culture where young people can have inappropriate contact with strangers 24 hours a day. The trend of children ‘sexting’ each other – sending explicit images of their bodies to other children on their phones, is “absolutely horrific”, yet is “happening in pretty much every school in the country.” Mrs Perry has called on parents to take responsibility and challenge their children about their use of technology and the internet. She suggested that parents turn off the internet when they go to bed to prevent youngsters being online with who-knows-who until the early hours. Mrs Perry says she is prepared to be branded as ‘the Mary Whitehouse’ of this decade. “When I am finished I want Britain to be absolutely leading the world in online child safety.”

I just passed a whole field of sheep on the bus today. What on earth they were doing on the bus I don’t know.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

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My deaf ex-girlfiend left me for one of her deaf friends. I’m gutted, I should have seen the signs.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Local childminders are ‘Outstanding’! Bradgate Childcare, which is based in Groby, has just been awarded ‘outstanding’ in all areas in their recent Ofsted report. The business, which is run by Kara Unwin and her husband Antony, can offer free funded places for 3 and 4 year olds and currently have spaces available. For more information, visit www.bradgatechildcare.co.uk.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Latest Relate advice to older couples The key to a happy retirement? The person you’re sharing it with, says Relate Leicestershire •

91% of older people in couples say their relationship is very important for a happy retirement.

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75% of older people who are in a relationship turn to their partner in times of need.

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One in five over 50s (or 4 million people) said they lacked confidence in forming new friendships and relationships

A new survey of people aged 50 and over in Great Britain conducted by Relate, the UK’s leading relationship support organisation, has shown that our personal relationships are a key factor in determining how happy our later years will be. 91% say that their relationship with their partner is very important to their happiness in retirement. Personal relationships are regarded as one of the most important things when people think about getting older, after good health. 75% of older people in a relationship say they would turn to their spouse or partner in times of need. The poll, which was conducted by independent researchers Ipsos MORI, surveyed 1,390 people aged 50 and over across Great Britain. The findings show the importance of relationships in later life in both good and bad times, but that good health and financial security are just as, if not more, important for older people. When asked to choose from a list of factors, older people who are married or in a couple cite their relationship with their partner or spouse as the second most important thing to them after good health (54% compared with 66%). Suzanne Prince, Relate Leicestershire Centre Manager said, “This survey tells us that strong and healthy relationships are a key ingredient for a good old age, with 91% of people who are married or in a relationship surveyed telling us that their relationship is very important for a happy retirement. Retiring is a good time to think about your relationship - is it ready for the changes that later life can bring? We know at Relate that people often don’t seek help until things are going badly wrong in their relationship and we’re encouraging people to invest early to get the most out of their old age.” Suzanne went onto say: “It is also concerning to see that one in five of people aged 50+, around 4[1]

million people, lack confidence in forming new friendships and relationships, which does not bode well for a happy later life. We know that older people’s relationships are undergoing significant social change, but this has been largely overlooked in the wider debate about our ageing society, which is why Relate, the national federated charity, has launched this campaign in its 75th year.” Im March, the national charity launched a campaign focusing on relationships in later life. Relate has partnered with Gransnet (www.gransnet.com), the online community for grandparents, and is asking people who are approaching retirement or who are newly retired to consider how their relationships might need to adjust. They can do this by taking a free online Relationship Checker on Gransnet at http://www.gransnet. com/being-a-gran/relationships/ relationship-checker or at www. retirementtogether.org.uk, Relate’s dedicated campaign site, which is packed with hints and tips for improving relationships with partners, family and friends. Vicki, a Counsellor with Relate Leicestershire said, “This can be a difficult stage of life for a lot of people, as they adjust to a life without work or when kids leave home. At Relate Leicestershire we know how to help people adapt, and how to strengthen your relationships so you can get the best out of this stage of your life.” The survey also found: • Almost four in five (78%) older people are satisfied with their life nowadays. • The overwhelming majority (83%) of older people agree that strong personal relationships with friends and family are the most important factor for a happy retirement. • When asked, the overwhelming majority of older people who are married or in a relationship (91%) agree their relationship is very important for a happy retirement. • Older people in a couple

“We know that older people’s relationships are undergoing significant social change, but this has been largely overlooked in the wider debate about our ageing society.” Suzanne Prince, Relate Leicestershire Centre Manager

•

relationship are also most likely to say they turn to their spouse or partner (75%) in times of need. Almost seven in 10 older people (68%) who are in a couple relationship, or have been in one in the past, report that getting older has not had a negative impact on their relationship with their spouse or partner. The majority of older people (64%) say that they feel confident in forming new friendships and relationships, but one in five say they lack confidence in doing this. Men are ultimately more likely than women to say they rely on their spouse or partner in times of need (58% compared to 33%).

Charity Partners plan to celebrate a year to remember! In June 2012 Sainsbury’s Humberstone Gate store in Leicester chose Leicestershire charity the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation as their charity partner for the year. After nearly a year of magnificent, innovative support this wonderful partnership is coming to an end. On Saturday 18th May the final fundraising event will be held at the Ulverscroft Manor, Priory Lane, Ulverscroft, LE67 9PH. Please come along and join us for Music in the Marquee and entertainment from local band ‘The Mixers’ This fantastic, fun, family event will be held under cover in a fabulous Marquee - from 2.00pm – 6.00pm. With a licensed Bar – Refreshments - Raffle Prizes – tombola - dance floor and belly dancing with bellyliscious Tickets are available from Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation, Ulverscroft Grange, Whitwick Road, Ulverscroft, Leicester, LE67 9QB. For more information please contact the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation on 01530 244914 or e mail admin@shuttlewoodclarke.org Alan Norman, Chief Executive of the charity said “we are immensely grateful for the wonderful support provided by the staff and customers of Sainsburys at Humberstone Gate. They have entered into the charity partnership with real enthusiasm and I sincerely hope that the marquee is filled to capacity on the 18th to make this a really successful end to a brilliant year.” For more information on the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation please visit www.shuttlewoodclarke.org or email admin@ shuttlewood-clarke.org or call 01530 244914

I’ve spent all day searching for a U2 CD... but I still haven’t found what I’m looking for.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Bradgate Lions Club News The Bricklayer’s Arms 213 Main Street Thornton T: 01530 230 808 QUIZ Nite: Thursdays We now have SKY and ESPN Try our new menus! www.bricklayersarms.net The Club, Thornton Main Street. T: 01530 230251 Open to Non-Members Sat 13th April: The Mighty Gyrators - Rock Covers Band Fri 19th April: Rockin Robins - Rock N Roll Evening Sat 20th April: Dave The Rock Band - Energetic Young Rock Band Sat 27th April: Boneyard Blues Band Fri 3rd May: Rockin Robins - Rock N Roll Evening Sat 11th May: The Decade Runners Fri 17th May: Rockin Robins - Rock N Roll Evening Sat 18th May: Cern - Modern Rock Covers Band We welcome any young bands that would like to play the club on a Friday evening. We also have bingo every Tuesday evening all welcome. facebook.com/The Club Thornton The Queen’s Head Ashby Road, Markfield. T: 01530 242 496 ALL SKY SPORTS & ESPN Bagworth Working Men’s Club, Station Road, Bagworth. Tel. 01530 230205 Find us on FACEBOOK search Bagworth WMC New members welcome. Live entertainment – last Saturday of the month Andy’s Charity Quiz £1.50 each last Friday of the month Sequence dances Sunday Nights. £1.50 admission 8 pm Tea Dance Wednesday afternoon 2 – 4 pm. £1 admission. Sat 20th April: SPRING FAYRE - numerous stalls - 12 noon-4pm Sat 27th April: MICHAEL JAY - very good solo artist Fri 10th May: CHARITY DANCE - £1.50 on the door AIR PISTOL SPEED SHOOTING - 1st Tuesday of each month - £2 on the door - winner takes all. Bring your own pistol or use ours. Ask about our free room hire for those special family occasions.

The Field Head Hotel Markfield Lane, Markfield Tel: 01530 245454 Tribute Nights/£2 Entry after 7pm. Fri 12th April: ‘ABBA TRIBUTE’ Fri 26th April: RAT PACK GOLDEN OLDIES See ad on page 30. The Bulls Head Forest Road, Markfield T: 01530 242541 Garden & Pub Games etc. Sat 18th May: The Del Sharrons Sat 1st June: F4C The Coach & Horses Leicester Road, Field Head Tel: 01530 242 312 KARAOKE Nights:Sats 16th March and 30th March with ‘King of the Road’. Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Club, Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287 1809 www.grobyclub.co.uk Saturday 13th April: Total Eclipse - Male/female Duo Sunday 14th April: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz Friday 19th April: Michael Jay very good solo artist Saturday 20th April: Frantik -quality male/female duo Sunday 21st April: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz Friday 26th April: Pop+Idol Excellent Male Duo Saturday 27th April: Attitude A - Quality Duo Sunday 28th April: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz Friday 3rd May: Adam Lowe - very good solo singer Saturday 4th May: Fall Gize Super Male Duo Sunday 5th May: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz Friday 10th May: Adam James Wilford - Good Solo Performer

Send your Local Live Entertainments and we’ll include a mention here FREE - tremendous!

My father ran the marathon but my mother competed in the 100 metres. It’s tough growing up with mixed-race parents.

Things have been rather quiet since Christmas, although we did enjoy a post Christmas dinner and Quiz at the Bulls Head, Hinckley Road, Leicester. As part of our social events calendar. On February 23rd. We held ‘A Night at the Races’ at Botcheston Village Hall, This was a Charity Fund Raising event. As well as a superbly presented eight race card, we all enjoyed a ‘Ploughman’s’ type supper midway, and a raffle. All proceeds went into our charity funds ready for allocation to various good causes in May later this year. March 21st. saw us entertain a local group called SWAG’s to Skittles and a Fish and Chip supper at Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Social Club. Swag’s are a group of special needs young people, based in Groby, who challenge us annually to a match, which they always win, and they thoroughly enjoy doing so. This year it was no different, but we were heavily outnumbered March was hectic month for us with our Easter Themed fund raising events. We had our ‘Easter Egg Prize Draw Baskets’ placed in 12 local public houses, to which our members then had to visit to sell to the clientele. We also had our ‘Easter Bunny’ Float touring the streets of Groby, Ratby and Kirby Muxloe, during the month, and a ‘Easter Bunny’ Pub crawl on Good Friday of drinking establishments in Kirby Muxloe, Glenfield, Markfield, Copt Oak, Stanton under Bardon, Thornton, Botcheston and Ratby. On the 23rd March we were to be found in Anstey village centre holding a bucket collection along with our ‘Easter Bunny’, and finally on March 30th. we held an all day bucket collection at the Glenfield Co-op Superstore, for the benefit of DLR. Air Ambulance. On Saturday April 27th. we are holding a ‘GALA CONCERT for St.GEORGE’, at Markfield Community Centre, featuring the Croft Silver Band playing a wide selection of music, and finishing with a proms type finale’ with lot of flag waving and singing. Tickets are £8 pp. and include a ‘Ploughman’s’ type supper. Tickets can be obtained by ringing Roger on 01530 242912. Ordinary People – Amazing Rewards How would you like to join BRADGATE LIONS CLUB? We are looking for new members with new ideas and bags of enthusiasm to take our successful club into the future. The Bradgate Lions started in 1988 and have raised over £140,000 since then. These funds have been distributed to many deserving charities since then such as:• Rainbows Children’s Hospice • D.L.R. Air Ambulance • Loros. • Wishes 4 Kids. • Children in Need And many more International, National and Local Charities and Good Causes. Bradgate Lions provide community initiatives that are of real benefit to those who are less fortunate amongst us namely:• Westgate School Pupils • SWAG’s ( A local group for young people with special needs)! • Glenfield Hospital Patients. It’s not all just work. Members enjoy camaraderie at monthly business meeting held on the second Thursday of each month, an various social activities arranged by the club. Now we are looking for new members who can contribute their ideas for new activities and opportunities for fun, fundraising and service initiatives. If this article strikes a chord with you and any of your friends, colleagues or partner, then join us at one of our meetings, and meet Club members and learn more. Please telephone Lion Roger Gamble on 01530 242912.

If you enjoy reading the Spotlight, please pass it on to a friend or relative after you’ve finished with it. Thanks!

A lorry carrying onions has overturned on the M62. Police are urging motorists to find a hard shoulder to cry on.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

Letter

DEFINITION: funny money n. Informal. Counterfeit currency. Money from an obscure or questionable source.

Praise for unsung heroes During this long, unpleasant and cold winter there have been many ‘unsung heroes’ who have carried on doing their jobs despite the freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and driving rain, but I’d like to mention the paper boys and girls of Wilsons Newsagents. For a relatively small payment they have diligently turned out every day, seven days a week, usually at hours when most of us are either in our warm and cosy beds or hunched over a hot tea or coffee in a warm and dry home, and tramped the untreated, snow and ice-covered streets of Groby. I have not been let down once, and I think that is worthy of praise. So Well Done and Thank You – take a bow!

Richard Cox

(A grateful newspaper reader)

St Michael’s Church

May Fayre with Raffle, Tombola Plant Stall Refreshments

Saturday 11th May Congregational Church Hall from 10.00 am - 12.00 noon

Desford Bowls Club At Sport In Desford, Peckleton Lane Opposite Caterpillar Works

OPEN DAY

Saturday April 27th: 2.30pm-5pm Come along, enjoy a cup of tea and have a try. Bowling is a Good Healthy Sport For All You will be made very welcome to our friendly club For more information, phone Brian on 01455 824645 or Terry on 0116 287 3392.

What’s going on under the blanket?

Has it been so cold recently that Markfield & Thornton Theatre Group players have taken to rehearsing under a blanket? Not a bit of it! It’s all part of the plot of “Funny Money”! Judging by the expressions on the faces of the participants, something highly unexpected and amusing is happening ... though what else could be expected of a Ray Cooney farce? Well, what you CAN expect is lots of laughs as the cast happily gambols through the events which happen in the home of Jean and Henry Perkins one wintry night. Little did anyone realise the repercussions which would abound when Henry, on his way home from work, accidentally picked up the wrong briefcase. Instead of half a cheese and chutney sandwich, he now has thousands of pounds. However, the unexpected windfall is “funny money” and an anonymous criminal, ( who will stop at nothing) , is looking for that briefcase! The situation becomes more and more fraught as the arrival of a policeman sends the couple into a spin and they begin the lies which escalate as one situation follows another. Soon the stage is awash as the Perkins are joined by the next-door-neighbours, policemen and a taxi-driver. Then there’s the enigmatic “Mr Big”, a Dutchman who does not speak English, who keeps phoning the Perkinses but remains monosyllabic throughout his calls – only uttering the word, “Brerfcurse”.The characters swap names, identities and relationships so frequently and swiftly that it is a miracle they remember who they really are at the end of the show! So, if you would appreciate a laughter-filled evening out – you know where to come! WE WOULD BE DELIGHTED TO HAVE YOU WITH US! The play will run from Wednesday 15th to Saturday 18th May, at 7.30 p.m. nightly at THORNTON COMMUNITY CENTRE. Tickets are priced at £5 Adults a and £4 concessions. They are available at “Norm’s”, the Corner Store in Thornton or on 01455 822148.

Churches Together Muriel Walker in Markfield

Charity Family Disco / Auction Saturday 11th May 2013 - 7.30pm Till Late At Markfield Community Centre, Markfield Tickets £2 Per Person

Come along and enjoy a good night and help raise money for a great charity.

welcome. There’s a raffle, tombola plus more. A guest star from Trinity Methodist ChurchEveryone 6-7pm Leicester City Football Club will be attending. All proceeds are going to Cancer Research 1089464 For tickets contact Diane: 07748 915829

Wednesdays 17th April, 15th May

I wrote a book on penguins. On reflection, paper would have been better.

d Search Puzzle

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

http://puzzlemak

Rockpool Life Wordsearch B R H S I F E L T T U C B S J T

E P O A J B I N C Z L H C T I F

A G W C U E R N A P E E E G L A

D K N I K G L Q A R T P N A S N

L C J O I P Y L M K M R T W P P

E A Y M P E O I Y I E P V Z I Z

T R K G L S T O L F E P R X D L

A W V Z L C E N L R I V J K E C

N R W N R J O S I P M S R M R J

Find 12 examples of Rockpool Life in this month’s Wordsearch puzzle and you could win yourself a meal and a drink. This month we are offering a tasty prize of: A Main Course for Two, plus A Bottle of House Wine at The Fieldhead Hotel. To go into the draw, all you have to do is find - and mark a line through - the names of 12 living things that you might find in a rockpool at the seaside. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). Send your entry to: BEACHCOMBING, Groby & Field Head Spotlight, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to E M O N E T S arrive by Wednesday 1st May 2013. to include your name and address. The first all-correct entry E D D A L B P Remember drawn out of the Editor’s knotted hankie will win the Meal for Two at U B Z C U E I The Fieldhead Hotel. Good luck!

A N M R W R R R R H F C H

Y M V I F P U Q A U X R D

O L N O E H S P B W K A T

U K S E A U R C H I N B M

L R P Q X G O U C S U B U

R O J L T Z O S S W Q X A

N Y S T A R F I S H A I Y

St Michael’s Here are the 12 Rockpool InhabitantsChurch you have to find: BEADLET ANEMONE • BLADDER • COMMON LIMPET MayWRACK Fayre CUTTLEFISH • FLAT PERIWINKLE • HERMIT CRAB with Raffle, JELLYFISH • PURSE SPONGE • ROCKPOOL PRAWN Tombola SEA URCHIN • SPIDER CRAB • SPINY PlantSTARFISH Stall

Refreshments

Name: .................................................................................................

Saturday 11th May

Congregational Church Hall Address: ................................................................................................ from 10.00 am - 12.00 noon .................................................................Postcode: .............................

Last Month’s Wordsearch Winner

The winner of last issue’s Wordsearch competition was: STEVE NAYLOR of Utah Close, Glenfield. You win a Main Course for Two plus a Bottle of a House Wine at The Fieldhead Hotel. Congratulations! Your prize will be with you soon.Churches Tog

in Markfiel

BEADLETANEMONE BLADDERWRACK COMMONLIMPET CUTTLEFISH FLATPERIWINKLE HERMITCRAB JELLYFISH PURSESPONGE ROCKPOOLPRAWN SEAURCHIN SPIDERCRAB SPINYSTARFISH

Batik Workshop Leicestershire Embroiderers’ Guild are hosting an Inspirational Batik Workshop with local artist Andrew Wynne on Saturday 27 April 2013, from 10.00am till 4.00pm. Trinity Methodist Church

6-7p

Members of the branch of the Embroiderers Guild, who meet monthly, at Braunstone West Social Centre (otherwise known17th as St Mary’s Hall) are Wednesdays April, 15th looking forward to this exciting day. During the day demonstrations will take place, amongst which will be the use of Indonesian Tjaps, Ukranian Kistkas (fine wax pens,) various wax resists and dyeing processes including discharge with an opportunity to try some. These techniques will appeal to textile enthusiasts alike including those who are just starting out. Alison Coates, Chair, is extending a warm welcome and looks forward to introducing the fun, friendship and creativity Bric a Brac, Crafts, Cakes, of textiles to all. Alison Refreshments £1 stall & Raffle is certain everyone who comes to the workshop will SATURDAY 27th APRIL find it really enjoyable. 1p.m. till 3.30p.m. If you wish to discover or COPT OAK MEMORIAL HALL rekindle the joy of handling and manipulating fabrics, Whitwick Road - LE67 9QB please book your place. NEXT TO COPT OAK PUB Refreshments are available Admission 50p – children free and the workshop fee is just £27.00 for non members, For further information ring plus a small materials 01530 244229 or 0116 2674746 fee, with a discount for Ample free parking members. For further details contact Deborah Proceeds to St. Peter’s Church Phillpott (secretary) on Copt Oak. 01455 612261

TABLE TOP & CRAFT FAYRE Created by Puzzlemaker at DiscoveryEducation.com

A fireman runs into a classroom holding a screwdriver and yells: “Quick, everyone get out. This is not a drill!”

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-April 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069

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To place an advert in the Spotlight, phone Mike Wilkinson on 01530 244069 or email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk Got caught sniffing Tippex the other day. I’ve been admitted to a correction centre.

I eat cake because it’s somebody’s birthday somewhere.