Groby & Field Head Mid-August 2011 2012 Mid-June
The Monthly News & Information Magazine for Groby, Field Head & The Brantings
Have your say on Council Tax support RESIDENTS in Hinckley & Bosworth are being urged to have their say on how Council Tax support should be provided from April 2013.
Currently, central Government fully funds a national council tax benefit scheme which supports residents on low incomes who need help to pay their council tax. However, that funding will be cut by 10% by central Government from next April. The council, therefore, is seeking residents’ views on the best way to achieve an affordable scheme, that will continue to support the most vulnerable members of the community, along with pensioners, whilst continuing to protect other valued services for all our residents. The Government’s reforms will also force the council to consider changing the discounts and exemptions which are currently in place, including reductions for second homes and unoccupied properties. Council leaders say the most vulnerable residents, including all pensioners, will not be affected by the changes. The public consultation will run until Friday 28 September 2012 and is available online at www.hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk The link will take residents to a consultation site hosted by Leicester City Council, but Hinckley & Bosworth residents only need to click on the council’s logo to complete our consultation. Council Tax Support will replace Council Tax Benefit as part of wider changes being implemented by central government to reform the benefit system and reduce worklessness. For more information, contact Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council on 01455 238141 email customer.services@hinckleybosworth.gov.uk or visit www.hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk
Olympic torch visits Martinshaw School During the last week of term Martinshaw Primary School were visited by 15 year old Rawlings College Student Jhon Bateman along with his Olympic Torch, which he had recently carried through Loughborough. Jhon who is disabled by Brittle Bone disease and often has to use a wheelchair, was nominated to carry the torch because, despite his own disabilities, since the age of 11, has sat on committees and shared platforms with both Ministers MP’s and well known promoters of disability issues, such as Paralympic Athlete Tara Flood. He is also a fund raiser for such charities as LOROS, running cake stalls and if necessary shaking a tin outside Supermarkets. The whole school assembled to greet Jhon, where he answered questions put by both the Head Andrew Raben and the children. The students where inspired by Jhon’s visit and he was equally inspired and delighted by the way he was welcomed by both staff and children.
Owen Lawrence
Adult Learning at Groby Tuesdays Guitar Club your local college It’s that time of the year again!
Groby Community College is advertising its selection of interesting Adult Learning courses in this month’s issue - see page 7. Among the courses on offer are: Pottery, Astronomy, First Aid, Human Health & Physiology, Cooking, First Steps in Computing, Pilates, Watercolour Painting, Website Development, French, German, Italian, Spanish, English, Maths and Tai Chi. If you want to get back to learning, it’s never been easier. Enrol today!
A class for guitarists who want to advance their playing ability by having fun playing in a group. If you know basic chords but want to learn more, the Groby Tuesdays guitar class meets on Tuesday nights at Groby Community College. A great chance to play with others and even do live performances. For more information ring Mark Wilde on 01509 673064.
NEXT ISSUE OUT: Saturday 15th September - Advert/Articles needed by 1st September
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Groby & Field Head Spotlight PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT
Telephone
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.
Cycling for charity along the Battlefield Trail
Compiled and published in the Parish of Groby & Field Head.
Freeuse hits the 100 tonne mark
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.
Deciding what to do this year as a fundraising event was tricky. The number of participants has increased to 9 as we speak (if it carries on going up I will be booking coaches!) and the events often take a while to plan. The timing of the trip is the first week in September, after the holidays and before the bad winter weather. However, with this year’s weather so far who knows what we will encounter as the cold and rain seems to be ever present. This year we plan to drive down to Dover, catch the ferry to Dunkirk and then cycle through France to Belgium, along part of the ‘Battlefield Trail’ calling at Zonnebeke, Poperinge, Flanders, Ypres, Menin Gate, returning to Zonnebeke and Dunkirk and then back over the Channel to Dover. It should take 5 days, well that’s the plan! As usual we hope to raise as much money as possible for various charities and will let you know just how much is pledged when we return. I shall again be supporting ADAPT (all dependant and pre-term babies) a local charity based at the Neo-natal unit of the Leicester Royal Infirmary where our eldest daughter Sophie was born 17 years ago weighing in at 780 grams (1Ib 11 oz) 14 weeks too soon! All my fund raising events have always received fantastic support over the past few years, raising well over a total of £5,000 from the first Isle of Man TT circuit to the Coast to Coast event last year. This is all down to the generous support of family, friends, the residents of Groby and the Royal Mail, a very big thank you to everyone. I hope this year will be just as successful and if you would like to sponsor me please catch me on my post round in and around Groby or pop into Groby Post Office.
Simon Moore, Field Head NEXT ISSUE OUT Saturday 15th September
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My photographs don’t do me justice - they look just like me.
Freeuse is celebrating a milestone this month after diverting 100 tonnes of waste from landfill. The online site hit the landmark figure on 8th August, which is equivalent to 60 family cars. Since it was introduced by the Leicestershire Waste Partnership in 2009, over 3,000 people have signed up as Freeusers and found new homes for unwanted items, giving them a second chance. Items swapped on Freeuse range from a racing car bed, a rubber dingy, dining room table sets and electrical items such as a dishwasher, TVs and DVD players. Using Freeuse was made even easier with the introduction of a free app for both the iphone and Android format which allows users to find local items. Cllr Guy Jackson, Chairman of the Leicestershire Waste Partnership, said: “It is a great achievement to divert 100 tonnes of waste. “Freeuse has proved to be very popular across Leicestershire and Leicester and has done a great job in helping reduce the amount of waste that has been sent to landfill.” Leicestershire Waste Partnership is made up of the county, district and borough councils with the city council as an associate member. The Freeuse website can be accessed at: www.freeuseit.org.uk For more information about the Leicestershire Waste Partnership visit www.lesswaste.org.uk
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Small Ads • M&S FOXGLOVE SHOES - one pair Bronze and one pair Cream. Size 3 with 1½” heel. Stylish, never worn. Price: £7 per pair. • FULL LENGTH ‘CAMEL’ COAT - Cashmere and wool. Size 10/12. Classic style. Price: £10 Tel: 0116 286 5896 • White uPVC Conservatory - 5m x 2.8m with polycarbonate roofing, rain guttering and downpipes being dismantled now. Clean and tidy throughout, hardwood interior sills. Price: £300 Can deliver locally at cost. Tel: 0116 2876 715 • 6 sapele effect internal wooden doors, 3 x 21” wide, 2 x 27” & 1 x 30”. • 2 fully glazed painted doors each with 10 panes patterned glass, 30” wide. Price: £5.00 per door. Tel: 0116 291 6923. • SINGER ELECTRIC SEWING MACHINE - free standing with foot control attachments, 2 drawers, 2 doors, light Teak. Price: £30 (which will go to charity) Tel: 01530 243713 • BABY GIRL’S CLOTHES age 0-9 months old. All in good condition. Four large bags full. Various items including trousers, leggings, dresses, tops, bodysuits, sleepsuits. Price: £20 for the lot. Tel: Jen on 07909 631490 • Girl’s wet suit - v.g.c., suit age 8 years. Price: £5 • Cinderella dress - suit age 5-7 years, includes tiara and necklace. Price: £5 • Belle Dress - suit age 5-6 years, reversible, beautiful, v.g.c. Price: £8 • Sleeping Beauty Dress suit age 8-9 years, v.g.c. Price: £5 Tel: 0116 287 8313 • FOUR-DRAWER FOOLSCAP FILING CABINET - Price: £15 • FOOLSCAP SUSPENSION FILES - brand new, 5 boxes, each containing 50 files. Price: £10 per box • ELITE CR101 CASH REGISTER - Price: £15 Tel: 0116 287 7881
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Martinshaw Says Goodbye to Pauline After over 31 years at the chalk face, popular Teaching Assistant Pauline Durdin finally retired from Martinshaw Primary School. When Pauline first started in the early 80’s she was the only TA in the school and was shared out, so to speak, between all the classes from early years to year 6, what a great way to very quickly develop a skills base. She has been involved in most of the after school activities, but closest to her heart were the schools green and environmental issues. She and Mrs Dawn Tipton, for a number of years, led the very popular gardening club. I wouldn’t say that she had become a little bit demob happy and I’m sure that she didn’t have a ‘demob’ chart on her bedroom wall ticking off the days to retirement, but over the last few weeks Pauline took to wearing Purple and muttering about sausages. When questioned, it appears that her favourite poem is ‘Warning’ by Jenny Joseph. The first line, ‘ When I am an old woman I shall wear purple’, later in the poem, ‘You can wear terrible shirts and grow more fat, and eat three pounds of sausages at a go’. Pauline has seen many of ‘her’ children grow into adults and become the mums and dads of the school present pupils, so at her very emotional retirement party held at the school they came along with past staff members to celebrate her career and say goodbye. On her last day, of course dressed in Purple, Pauline sat in front of the whole school assembly where the children, whose lives she had touched, some for just a few months and some for many years, presented her with gifts, many made by the children themselves. Also sadly leaving this year is Mrs Dawn Tipton, to a teaching post in Hamilton, Miss Kat Smethurst to take up a teaching post in South Korea, Miss Sian Pursey to Coventry, Kam Thandi, and Andy Bennett & Andy Wilson (both stars of the football coaching staff).
Owen Lawrence
Chance to Meet Your Borough Council Leaders PEOPLE in Hinckley and Bosworth who have any concerns, comments or suggestions about the Borough Council’s services, will get an opportunity to take their queries to the very top in September. They will be able to talk directly to Council Leader Stuart Bray and Chief Executive Steve Atkinson at a drop-in session being held on Tuesday 25 September between 3.30pm and 7pm. A 15 minute slot will be allocated on a first come - first serve basis with the two people who lead the Council from a political and operational perspective. This session has been organised following the success of a similar arrangement which took place in November 2011. Councillor Bray said: “The Administration have always said we want to listen to what people have to say and this drop-in session is just one of the ways in which we are trying to achieve this.” To take part contact Jane Stew on jane.stew@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk or telephone 01455 255606.
Tributes at Snibston Century Theatre TALON: The Acoustic Collection 8th September @ 7.30pm Four members of the world’s greatest Eagles tribute band perform a selection of their favourite contemporary acoustic classics. Tickets: Advanced £15; On the door £16. SOUNDS OF SIMON A Tribute to Simon & Garfunkel 28th September @ 8.00pm Lose yourself in nostalgia as the full band play classics by Simon & Garfunkel and Paul Simon’s solo career. Tickets: Advance £12; On the door £14.
I asked the waiter, ‘Is this milk fresh?’ He said, ‘Lady, three hours ago it was grass.’
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Groby Street Fair Fancy Dress Competition Saturday 8th September 2012 Calling all young Groby folk who like to dress up! The Groby Street Fair Fancy Dress Competition takes place on Saturday 8th September 2012. The competition has three age groups: • Up to 5 years • 6-10 years • 11-15 years The first three in each group will win a nice cash prize of £15 for first place, £10 for second place and £5 for third place, so it’s well worth entering. Competitors are asked to gather at Groby Church on Markfield Road at 1.30pm. To enter, contact Barbara on 01530 243469 or Jean on 01530 243424.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Bloors housing application refused LETTER Norman Griffiths looks at the Borough Council’s decision
Although only 247 residents objected to the most recent plan to develop the land next to Groby cemetery this is unlikely to reflect the true level of opposition within the two villages affected. There will be widespread relief in Groby and in Ratby that on July 24th Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council decided not to approve the application from Bloors to build 91 homes on the site. This is not the end of the story. The company has invested heavily in it’s plans to develop the site and has already appealed against the decision. This application was unexpected following the rejection of their last plan for 133 homes by the Planning Inspector. Residents believed that because of the “2 year rule” there could be no further application submitted until January 2013 at the earliest. Bloors contended that it was legitimate for them to submit a new application before two years have elapsed, arguing that the power to decline to determine a revised planning application is available to local planning authorities where the revised application is the same or similar to the refused or dismissed applications and the local planning authority consider that there has been no significant change in the relevant considerations since the relevant refusal or dismissal. The legal advice given to the Borough Council was that Bloors should be allowed the chance to submit another application so that the Council could decide whether it was substantially different from the one that was rejected.
Report recommended refusal The report of the planning officer to members of the Council runs to 14 pages of detailed consideration of all the issues, much too detailed to report fully. It can be read online, however, at http:// moderngov.hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk/documents/ s1570/Applications.pdf. The planning Office decided there were clear differences in this scheme when compared to the appeal scheme and so they had to consider it. But although some of the issues from the appeal had been addressed by the new proposals it was felt that there were other reasons for refusing the application at this time. The main issue was described as ‘prematurity’, which to the layman might be called ‘jumping the gun’. It seems to mean that the application has been made before the Council has completed the process of allocating sites suitable for development throughout the borough. In addition if the land were to be developed it could
compromise the review of the boundary of the Green Wedge. Although rejecting the appeal against the earlier application the Inspector considered the need to ensure a 5 year supply of housing land. He considered that the delivery of housing on this site would make an appreciable contribution towards the shortfall in the Council’s overall five year supply of 90 sites. Although this could be a reason for supporting development he thought it was outweighed by the other considerations, and this was something the Council had to consider. Luckily the Borough Council now has a five year supply of housing land and as such it believes that this removes the need to bring sites forward ahead of the plan making process.
Why engage expensive advisers? With the Borough Council officers taking such a clear stand on the application some may wonder why the Parish Council has set aside thousands of pounds of residents money to engage expensive legal experts to represent Groby. The answer lies in the nature of the system. The building industry has to deliver houses for its customers, profits for its owners and employment and security for its workers and families. The stakes are high and as a result so are the sums of money that the companies are prepared to spend in preparing planning applications and detailed and persuasive arguments why they should be approved. Parish Councils and local residents are generally incapable of responding to professionally prepared technical applications without the help of their own advisers who have the same skills. These advisers help create a level playing field, but expert help is always expensive, even when the costs are shared with neighbouring parishes. Leicester based Marrons describes itself as “a specialist practice which focuses on planning and environmental, public law and property.” Simon Stanion, a partner in the firm, submitted on behalf of the Parish Council a detailed 12 page letter outlining the reasons why the application should be rejected, and this may have played an important role. Simon was acknowledged in the 2012 Planning magazine guide to Planning Lawyers 201213 as being one of the top 20 planning solicitors in the country. As in all things, you get what you pay for, and such expertise doesn’t come cheap. Even Marrons can’t guarantee ultimate success, but at least residents will know that the community did all they could.
Real nappy demonstration video launched by council “Real nappies are just as quick and easy to use as disposables. With the added benefits of beautiful colours. They helped to reduce nappy rash and potty train my child quicker” says Faatima Khan, Oadby, who used real nappies on her child. A 10 minute video clip demonstrating the different types of real nappies and the different types of folds available has been launched by Leicestershire County Council. It’s now available to watch online at: www.leics.gov.uk/nappies. You can also visit this web link to find out more about the incentives available on real nappies. Real nappies have next to no impact on landfill sites as opposed to the 3 billion disposable nappies that are thrown away each and every year in the UK, 90% of which are landfilled. If you’re interested in environmental tips keep up to date with Leicestershire’s Greene family facebook page at www.facebook.com/LeicestershireGreeneFamily.
I generally avoid temptation, unless I can’t resist it.
Appeal by:Bloor Homes East Midlands Ltd
Site:- Land East Of Groby Village, Cemetery Groby Road, Ratby Proposal:- ERECTION OF 91 DWELLINGS WITH GARAGES, PARKING SPACES, OPEN SPACE, LANDSCAPING AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE Application No:- 12/00250/FUL I would wish to advise your readers that Bloor Homes have issued an appeal against Hinckley & Bosworth Council in respect of the planning committee refusing the application for them to build 91 new homes next to Groby Cemetery (land that is in Ratby Parish) We have yet to receive the official timetable of events from the Planning Inspectorate, once this information is received it will be available to view via the following link:- https://www.hinckley-bosworth. gov.uk/planningonline, you should use the planning application reference above (12/00250/FUL) to search for the information. Relevant ward members will be advised further once the start date has been received.
Cllr Martin Cartwright Liberal Democrat Groby Ward
Divas in the Dark Moonlight Walk A very special glam moonlight walk supporting the mums at Rainbows. On Saturday 8th September 2012 starting at 10pm. Registration is £10. Visit www.rainbows.co.uk/divas for more information
Course Title
Start Date
Number of Weeks
Day
Start Time
Cost
Computer Confidence (Glenfield Park House)
24/09/12
8
Mon
12.3014.30
£72.00
£42.50
Discover IT at your Library (Newbold Verdon Library)
31/10/12
12
Wed
10.0012.30
£94.00
19:00
£42.50
Website Development - Advanced
17/04/13
10
Wed
19:00
£100.00
Wed
19:00
£135.00
Website Development - First Steps
10/10/12
5
Wed
19:00
£45.00
10
Wed
19:00
£90.00
Website Development - Intermediate
14/01/13
8
Mon
19:00
£80.00
09/01/13
10
Wed
19:00
£90.00
French Year 3
26/09/12
27
Wed
19:00
£221.40
First Aid - Emergency First Aid at Work
01/12/12
1
Sat
9:30
£37.00
French Year 5 Intermediate
25/09/12
27
Tue
19:00
£221.40
First Aid - Emergency First Aid at Work
20/04/13
1
Sat
9:30
£37.00
German Year 4
24/09/12
27
Mon
19:00
£221.40
25/09/12
27
Tue
19:00
£221.40
First Aid - Paediatric
31/10/12
6
Wed
19:00
£69.00
German Year 5 Intermediate
Human Health and Physiology GCSE
12/09/12
32
Wed
18:45
£266.00
Italian Beginners - Part 1
26/09/12
14
Wed
19:00
£80.85
Italian Beginners - Part 2
30/01/13
13
Wed
19:00
£75.08
Cooking - Caribbean Cookery
16/04/13
5
Tue
18:45
£45.00
Italian Year 5+ Advanced
24/09/12
27
Mon
19:00
£221.40
Cooking - Cupcakes Bake and Decorate
09/02/13
1
Sat
9:30
£22.50
Spanish Beginners - Part 1
24/09/12
14
Mon
19:00
£80.85
Cooking - Festive Sparkle Christmas Cookery
01/12/12
1
Sat
9:30
£22.50
Spanish Beginners - Part 2
28/01/13
13
Mon
19:00
£75.08
Cooking - Simply Bake
19/02/13
5
Tue
18:45
£45.00
Spanish Year 2
24/09/12
27
Mon
19:00
£221.40
Cooking - Simply Summer It’s a Shore Thing!
20/05/13
5
Mon
18:45
£45.00
Spanish Year 5 Intermediate
25/09/12
27
Tue
19:00
£221.40
Absolute Beginners Guide to IT
01/10/12
3
Mon
19:00
£16.50
English - GCSE
11/09/12
30
Tue
18:45
£50.00
17/09/12
15
Mon
19:00
FREE
Computer Confidence - Improve Your Skills
15/04/13
8
Mon
19:00
£72.00
English for Life 15 weeks Maths - GCSE
11/09/12
30
Tue
18:45
£50.00
Maths for Life
19/09/12
30
Wed
19:00
FREE
Pilates Based Body Conditioning - Mixed Ability
18/09/12
15
Tue
18:30
£67.50
Pilates Based Body Conditioning - Mixed Ability
29/01/13
15
Tue
18:30
£67.50
Pilates Based Body Conditioning - Mixed Ability
18/09/12
15
Tue
19:45
£67.50
Pilates Based Body Conditioning - Mixed Ability
29/01/13
15
Tue
19:45
£67.50
Tai Chi - Beginners
17/09/12
15
Mon
19:00
£84.38
Tai Chi - Beginners
28/01/13
15
Mon
19:00
£84.38
Course Title
Start Date
Number of Weeks
Day
Start Time
Cost
Pottery - Mixed Level
26/09/12
15
Wed
19:00
£150.00
Pottery - Mixed Level
20/02/13
15
Wed
19:00
£150.00
Crafts - Salt Dough Workshop
31/10/12
5
Wed
19:00
Crafts - Salt Dough Workshop
20/02/13
5
Wed
Guitar - Improvers Level
26/09/12
15
Astronomy - Explore the Autumn Night Sky
26/09/12
Astronomy - Winter Sky Wonderland
First Steps In Computing
05/11/12
15
Mon
19:00
£94.00
ITQ Level 1 (CLAiT) - Tutor Led
03/10/12
22
Wed
19:00
£197.00
ITQ Level 2 (ECDL Extra) - Tutor Led
03/10/12
22
Wed
19:00
£197.00
Craft Salt Dough Workshop (Groby Village Hall)
31/10/12
5
Wed
10.0012.00
£21.25
Pilates (Groby Village Hall)
19/09/12
15
Wed
13.4515.00
£84.38
Watercolour Painting for Beginners (Kirby Muxloe Village Hall)
24/09/12
15
Mon
13.0015.00
£135
Absolute Beginners Guide to IT (Glenfield Park House)
24/09/12
3
Mon
10.0012.00
£8.25
Your Local Adult Learning Office is Groby Community College Tel: 0116 287 4725
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
A lasting legacy at Martinshaw Primary
Groby Garden Bird Watching It is now over 6 months since my last jottings and a lot of changes have taken place. Over the winter I did not get my usual number of birds. The influx of Blackbirds from December onwards did not take place, and within the numbers there were very few female Blackbirds visiting the feeding stations, and this trend has continued to date. The male Blackbirds have continued to sing and I believe this is a sign they are still trying to attract a female and protect their territory. The Tits and other nut eating birds seem to have found other feeding stations and as a consequence in the end, I removed the nut holder as the nut kept on getting very wet, stale and mouldy. I also greatly missed the Siskins and only had 1 Redpoll, in comparison with other years when there have been up to 8 birds of each species at any one time. However, I was excited to have my first Mistle Thrush and 2 Song Thrushes come for the fruit when the weather was very cold. The Sparrow numbers once again increased slowly during the winter until there were up to 40 at any one time. They were using the hedge near the bird table as shelter and it was peppered with over 20 holes- very decorative. When the breeding season started the number of Sparrows dropped to between 5/6 pairs. Other birds visiting the garden include the Bull Finch, Reed Bunting and Nut Hatch during the winter and spring, and throughout the time to date, the Robin, Dunnock, Chaffinch, Green finch and Gold Finch. The latter have just introduced their fledglings to the feeding station. Since starting to write this article the Gold Finch fledglings have not reappeared for the last two weeks and I fear they may have died during the wet and cold weather. This year I have had more Crows, Magpies and Jackdaws, and 4/5 squirrels, these predators have depleted the number of small birds visiting the garden. A neighbour told me she had seen a squirrel chewing at a bird box where Great Tits had been seen, after this observation the Tits did not reappear. The Pigeons and Collared Doves have also dominated the bird tables. The small birds trying to get food from these tables have a very short windows of opportunity when I shoo the predators away. (Even my dog has given up the chase as it is constant.) If you have a cat, remember that many birds will be starting to moult and are very vulnerable when there flight feathers are growing. I hope you have had more luck enjoying our feathered friends and will continue to do so as the fledglings arrive.
Margaret Purves My recipe for dealing with anger and frustration: set the kitchen timer for 20 minutes, then cry, rant and rave, and at the sound of the bell, simmer down and go about your business as usual. We spend the first twelve months of our children’s lives teaching them to walk and talk, and the next twelve telling them to sit down and shut up.
After Martinshaw Primary School’s participation in the Parish Council and Bradgate Lions Jubilee Tree planting at Butler’s Field during May, where 60 trees were planted to provide year round colour to commemorate the Queens Diamond Jubilee, the school decided to take advantage of the Council’s Tree Planting, ‘A Lasting Legacy’ initiative. Towards the end of term, wellies and spades at the ready, school council members, staff, parents and governors gathered with Parish Councillor’s Jim Coley and Ted Hollick, under the supervision of Mr Jim McLure and Jay Anderson (the Council’s seasonal groundsman) to plant trees in the school grounds, their own lasting, living legacy. Nine trees were planted all together, among them was a cherry, which had started its life as a discarded cherry stone in Headmaster Mr Andrew Raben’s compost heap. The trees will be nurtured over the years by the school gardening club.
Owen Lawrence
The Alpha Course for anyone with questions about belief and faith.
Wednesday evenings 7.00 - 9.30pm 12th Sept - 14th Nov in The Stamford Arms
A light supper, followed by a talk on some aspect of Christianity, with an opportunity to discuss and ask questions in small groups. For more details or to book a place on the course, please contact Louise Corke: 0116 231 3090 words.th@talktalk.net or Sue McKenzie: 0116 232 1733 suemcken@gmail.com Organised by Churches Together in Groby
Sometimes I think war is God’s way of teaching us geography.
Markfield Medical Centre Patient Awareness Day No Appointment Necessary - just come along between 10am and 2pm Doctors Trzcinski, Heaton, Fernandez and Norgain and all the staff at Markfield Medical Centre would like to invite our patients to come along to an Open Day at the surgery on Saturday 15th September between 10am and 2pm. The purpose of the Open Day is to inform patients of all the services available and to make sure that patients are getting as much benefit as they possibly can from the surgery, in terms of whether a Doctor or a Nurse is the best person to see for a particular problem Practice Nurses and Health Care Assistants will be here on the day to carry out free body mass index and blood pressure checks, and offer long term condition advice and support to all of our diabetic, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and heart failure patients. On the day Masons pharmacy will be offering smoking cessation advice, and we have representatives from the North West Leicestershire Active 4 Life team to offer lifestyle and exercise advice. A Diabetes Mobility pre screening unit will be offering screening to non–diabetic patients to make early diagnosis of this long term condition. This means that patients can take early action to change their diet which helps to minimise progress of the condition to a more severe stage. Our Patient Representatives will be here on the day so this will be a great opportunity to get to know them and to be able to have a point of contact if patients wish to feed anything back to the surgery. Our patient representatives work with the Doctors and staff at the surgery to shape and develop the services for the future.
No appointments are necessary so please come along and find out just what your Surgery can do for you. Markfield Medical Centre, 24 Chitterman Way, Markfield, Leicestershire LE67 9WU
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Villages hit by library computer charges Norman Griffiths reports on a postcode lottery for library charges Leicestershire County Council(LCC) has had to make difficult decisions when deciding how to reduce costs and generate income, but some users of library computers are asking whether the changes to charges introduced in April are unfair to many villages. The effect is that customers in some villages could potentially pay hundreds of pounds a year for a service which other areas receive free of charge.
Libraries budget slashed The Leicestershire Communities and Well-being service, which provides libraries, has to reduce its spending by £4.3 million over the next few years, so to boost income the charges for some services were changed in April. Before April computer use in libraries was free of charge, subject to a weekly allowance of 6 hours, but this has been reduced to a daily allowance of one hour. Any daily use over one hour costs £1 for 30 minutes, which compares to 50p an hour in an internet café in Leicester. Within a few days one customer had written to the Leicester Mercury complaining about the changes. “When the system is slow, you cannot log on to websites and printing needs to be done via staff. Often little can be completed in one hour,” she wrote. “If no-one is waiting or booked, let us continue to use our hours weekly, otherwise more demand may occur another day and prevent access then for some. It seems this new punitive daily limit is an attempt to recoup costs, rather than regulate demand to ensure fair access for all with reduced opening.” Groby library is now open for 6 days a week. Computer users who don’t travel to other libraries can still enjoy 6 hours free each week as long as they visit the library every day. But in Loughborough and Oadby the libraries are open 7 days a week, so users enjoy 7 hours free. This means that their users actually get an increase of an hour in their weekly free computer use whilst many others have suffered a cut, unless they travel to another library. Groby customers have to pay £2 a week if they wish to use their local library computers for 7 hours. Any Field Head resident using Markfield library has to pay £4 a week for 7 hours, as that library only opens on 5 days. This could amount to hundreds of pounds over a year. To be in the same position as Loughborough or Oadby residents any Markfield customer would have to travel to another library on 2 days out of 7, including a minimum of a 20 mile round trip to Loughborough or Oadby on a Sunday. That’s hardly the kind of environmentally friendly behaviour the County Council would wish to encourage and not at all practical.
The position is much worse in nearby Ratby. Here the library is only open for 4 days a week, so it costs customers £6 a week, approaching £300 a year, for the same local library computer use that is free in Loughborough and Oadby.
Vulnerable affected “Unemployed people will still get free access,” explained a Council spokesperson. Although the unemployed and children have a more generous and probably adequate daily allowance, it is not free access. After 2 hours these groups also have to pay the £1 per 30 minutes. One library customer who is a registered carer who has to pay after an hour finds that finances just don’t stretch to paying the surcharge. Visits to the library, which includes researching family history, provide a welcome relief from the responsibilities at home. Because of those duties it is not always possible to visit the library every day, which wasn’t so critical with the former weekly allowance. Internet family history searches are time consuming and an hour soon passes.
A difficult decision “The decision to introduce a cost for computer use was a difficult one to make,” explained the spokesperson. “We wanted to provide a simple to remember and consistent cost across the county. Customers can use any library across the county to access computers throughout the week. Knowing that we needed to introduce a revised charge to meet income targets, we looked at other authorities and tried to be as fair as we could.” And there is no doubt that the charges for computer use in neighbouring counties are less generous than in Leicestershire. But the fact that a postcode lottery also operates elsewhere is little comfort to those who have to pay for something that some other Leicestershire residents receive free. The new charges do not take account of the limitations imposed by differences in library opening hours and inequity created by the shift from a weekly to a daily allowance. “ We all pay the same Council Tax for County services” said one unhappy customer, “but it is only some Council taxpayers that are having to pay more if they can’t use another library. The change to a daily allowance is purely to generate income and is quite unfair”. The spokesperson added that as this is a new charge they are monitoring customer feedback and will review the charges annually. The Council has so far declined to provide information about the cost of providing the service, their forecast of the annual income to be generated, and the income to date. What is also unclear is whether the effect of the new charge was anticipated or whether it is an unexpected consequence of the changes.
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Open Golf Day in aid of Groby Scouts tHE sTAMFORD ARMS Open Golf Day on Sunday 9th September 2012 takes place at Six Hills Golf Course, with tee times starting at 9am. There is a decent prize fund with £100 going to the winner and £75 for runner up. Drinks vouchers will be awarded for Nearest the Pin (all par 3s), Two Longest Drives, Secret Four Balls, All Birdies and First Eagle. The event is in aid of Groby Scout Association, who are kindly providing a BBQ for players arriving back at The Stamford Arms. Entry costs £32.50 per person, which includes 18 holes of golf, winner’s presentations plus the BBQ back at the Stamford. To enter, contact The Stamford Arms on 0116 287 5616. .
Interested in antiques & collectables? The Newark International Antiques and Collectors Fair is the largest event of its kind in Europe. Held at the Newark and Nottinghamshire Showground on an enormous 84 acre site, up to 2,500 stands attract thousands of dealers and buyers from around the globe every other month. The next fair takes place on Thursday 23rd & Friday 24th August. Entry Fees: Thursday 9am - 6pm £20pp; Friday: 8am - 4pm £5 pp Accompanied under-16’s are admitted free. For full details visit www.iacf.co.uk/newark
When God sneezed, I didn’t know what to say.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Jottings
News in Brief with Norman Griffiths
No toast for some On Sunday June 24th the residents of Ferrers Rise and Chapel Hill discovered that their electricity supply had been interrupted yet again. Western Power Distribution were soon on the scene digging up the footpath to Ferrers Rise and the quarry setts on Chapel Hill and worked hard and into the night. The length of cable on the upper section of Chapel Hill near the URC has suffered repeated failures over recent years and was overdue for replacement, but it’s been a case of patch and patch again. This time the new contractors saw sense in finally resolving the problem and a new length of cable was fitted in ducting. All that was left was the reinstatement of the quarry setts. Unfortunately it appears that when a truck arrived at 10.30pm on Sunday night it took away in the darkness not only the spoil that had been removed from the excavation but also about a square metre of setts. So some barriers remained for a further 6 weeks, until what residents hope is a temporary tarmac reinstatement was undertaken.
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Outside catering for all occasions; for bespoke menus & prices please contact us. Sevenoaks Garden Centre, Groby Lane, Newtown Linford, LE6 0HG. 01530 245123 www.facebook.com/cafenoseven
Sign of the times There’s a horse rider’s warning sign for motorists as you approach the weir at Groby Pool from Newtown Linford. Horses are now rarely seen on this stretch of road and the County Council is reviewing its usefulness. The Parish Council has suggested that it should be replaced with a more relevant ‘pedestrians in the road’ sign, as the weir crossing has no footpath and anyone on this popular walking route has no option other than to share the road with the vehicles.
The meadow On the new notice board at the meadow opposite the A50 slip road on Newtown Linford Lane is an open letter to local residents from
Alistair Cooper, chair of GrobyCIC the legal entity which will own the meadow. The land was purchased last year with the help of funding from the Parish Council and by individual contributions from local residents. “Once the company is established we will be issuing shares to all those people who have made a financial contribution and canvassing ideas for the use of the meadow,” writes Alistair. “We are still looking for more residents to become involved with the project, so if you would like to make a financial contribution, so that your thoughts and ideas can be heard, please contact us at the email address. Our initial thoughts are that we would like to return the meadow to its former status as just that, a meadow. This would be for the benefit of all Groby residents to enjoy with their families, as an area to walk, enjoy the natural environment and relax.” He goes on to outline the priorities for the coming months and thanks everyone for their patience. The contact email address is grobyCIC@hotmail. co.uk.
Cemetery subsidence Some visitors to the Groby cemetery may have been concerned about the apparent disturbance of some graves. Unfortunately the adverse weather conditions this year seem to have resulted in some subsidence to 23 graves, a small number of which have dropped by 6 to 8 inches. The Parish Council has taken remedial action with additional topsoil and turf.
My grandmother is over eighty and still doesn’t need glasses. Drinks right out of the bottle.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Bradgate Flower Club
Bradgate Flower Club’s programme resumed on Wednesday 1st August, with a demonstration by Gail Croxall from Rugeley. Her chosen theme was ‘Journey with Flowers’. On Wednesday 5th September, ‘E for Elizabeth’ provides the inspiration for the demonstration, when the Club continues its celebration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee year. The guest demonstrator is Janine Hall from Sutton Coldfield. Enjoy an entertaining evening and enter the raffle with a chance to win one of the six demonstration displays. The meeting starts at 7.30pm in Newtown Linford Village Hall (which will be the venue each month except in December). The Flower Club’s events are open to existing and new members and to visitors, for whom an entry charge of £5 is made. Further details of both meetings can be obtained from me, Geraldine Abbott, on 01530 415378.
Geraldine Abbott
Take a Special Walk on the Wildside for LOROS On Sunday 9th September 2012 its time to get you’re walking boots on and join us for a ‘Walk on the Wildside’ again. This year is slightly different. We want you to join in with the fun passing through the beautiful Bradgate park and enchanting Swithland Wood. Starting and Finishing at Severn Trent Visitor Centre Cropston, this year in marquees with an animal theme with the 6 mile circular walk commencing at 10:30am. Fancy a challenge? Then why not join us earlier at 9:30am and challenge yourself to the new 10 and 13.1 half marathon walk! Everyone participating will receive a free goody bag items during the walk (banana and water) along with a special embroidered badge on completion of the walk. Participants will also receive a certificate once all the sponsorship money has been donated. Food will also be available from the BBQ along with Lively Warm up Sessions, Special Guests, Stalls, Children’s craft area with animal masks, Cheerleaders and much much more!! What are you waiting for? Call fundraising on 0116 2318431 or Register online today at www.loros.co.uk/fundraising for your FREE Registration and sponsorship pack. Last chance to register is Friday 31st August 2012! All money raised will ensure LOROS continues to provide patient care at the Hospice, at the Manor Croft Palliative Day Therapy Unit, and throughout the community.
You have a nice personality, but not for a human being.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Dog exclusion order for Beacon Field? Norman Griffiths reports on the Parish Council consultation In 2010 the Parish Council was told by Leicestershire County Council that it did not wish to take advantage of an offer of a lease of land known as Beacon Field near Lady Jane Grey school. The previous lease ended in 2008 and the Council had offered a new 99 year lease at just £1 a year. In the absence of a lease the Council felt it would have to apply the normal rules relating to organised activities, with the school having to apply for a use permit, confirm their insurance cover and pay the normal charges. Two years on and the school, which will shortly become an Academy, has expressed an interest in a new lease. Although the reason for the 2010 lease offer not being taken up was not clear members were told that there had been concerns about dog excrement and litter on the land. This summer the Parish Council has opened a public consultation on a proposed dog control order for the land and a reader has written to the Spotlight asking for it to be brought to the attention of other readers. “As this area is primarily used by dog walkers (I have never seen a person without a dog on there) I feel that readers need to be made aware so they can voice their objections,” he wrote . “ I’m not sure when their final date for objections is (I think it’s the end of August) but I think people deserve to know so they can have the chance to make their feelings known.” The consultation, which can be
read on the council website and has also been placed in the Leicester Mercury, does run until 31st August and comments in writing can be sent for the attention of The Clerk to the Council, Parish Council Offices, Village Hall, Leicester Road, Groby, Leicester, LE6 0DQ, online using the consultation response form, or by emailing parishclerk@groby. com. Assistance dogs will be exempt.
Clear duty of care Dog control orders tend to be controversial as responsible dog owners may feel they are being penalised by the actions of a minority, but the Parish Council believes that a dog exclusion order may be needed. “The prime purpose of Beacon Field except for a very short period has long been as a school playing field for Lady Jane Grey School,” explained Councillor Peter Batty, Chairman of the Parks and Cemetery Committee, “consequently Groby Parish Council has not just got a moral responsibility but a clear duty of care to ensure that children using the playing field are protected from any health risk that can be associated with dog fouling. Consultation on the notification of proposals to introduce Dog Control Orders are part of the process for the introduction of these orders but ultimately the decision is one for the Parish Council to make.”
He added that there are currently ample alternatives within reasonable walking distance of Beacon Field for walking dogs, provided they are kept under proper control and their owners clean up their dog’s fouling. “This consultation seeks to obtain information and opinions from local residents on the proposed order and is aimed at balancing the interests of dog owners and the rest of the public,.” explains the Council website. “At Groby Parish Council we recognise that a vast majority of dog owners act responsibly and keep their dog or dogs under control which includes clearing up after them in a public place. Unfortunately however there are a small number of inconsiderate dog owners who do not which causes many problems for the community as a whole.”
How much it could cost Penalties for committing an offence contained in Dog Control Orders are a maximum of Level 3 on the standard scale £1,000. Alternatively Fixed Penalty Notices can be issued for these offences by Groby Parish Council’s authorised officers and may be offered in place of prosecution. Guidance has been issued by the government, stating that the level of fines that can be set for offences within a dog control order is £50 - £80, and where no fine is set by the local authority the fine is to be £75.
Homemade Authentic Indian Snacks Samosas Pakoras / Onion Bhajis Spring Rolls & a Variety of Curries Catering is available for Dinner Parties, Weddings, Birthdays, Office Events & more. Free Home Delivery within 5 miles For all enquiries please contact us:
Ria’s Kitchen 07772 542 356 Email: riaskitchen@hotmail.co.uk Woman begins by resisting a man’s advances and ends up by blocking his retreat.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Arran and the SAIF team complete the Three Peaks Challenge!
THE SAIF 3 Peaks Challenge in aid of The Children’s Air Ambulance was completed in 22hrs and 50minutes. If you have sponsored the team, Thank You. If you haven’t yet sponsored us and would like to, please go to www.justgiving.com/saif3peaks
Arran Brudenell
Anstey & District Funeral Services, National President – The National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors
You are what you wear (though your wife chose it) Twelve million men are at work today wearing something that their wife or partner chose for them to put on. And roughly two thirds of men rely on their partner each morning to pick out their ties, shirts, shoes or suits, blaming lack of fashion confidence in themselves. The study, by www.stylepilot.com, also found that men struggle to know what to wear for important meetings or parties, and again rely on their partner’s judgement. Three in ten men are simply told what to wear, or even have their clothes bought for them. One in six men plays it safe by simply wearing the same sort of thing every day, and sticking with the same colours.
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0116 2879715 / 07814224630 I sometimes think that God, in creating Man, somewhat overestimated his ability.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Groby Village Society
Preservation ~ Conservation Communal Interests
Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Adviser Service
Goodbye Cleo I just want to let all the kind people who knew Cleo that she left us on June 27th 2012.
Railwaymen - Mr Ken Issit &
Cleo was well known to residents in Groby and Ratby as she was ridden through the villages. Cleo was between 36 and 40 years old and had enjoyed retirement in the last couple of years. I would like to thank neighbours and friends who kept an eye on her during her last months, especially Tony for all his help. Cleo was loved by alot of people and will be sadly missed by all. Thank you once again for making her last months special.
Mr Chris Bates
Jan Hawksworth
Forthcoming Events • Thurs Aug 23: Evening All - Mr Richard Pollard • Thurs Sept 27: Orson Wright builder of South Wigston and most of Leicester - Mr Peter Cousins • Thurs Oct 25: Chris & Ken the
• Thurs Nov 22: Fools and
Painting Classes
Jesters - Mrs Sally Henshaw • Thurs Dec 13: Life as a Barnardo’s Boy - Mr Alan Dearman
Meetings are held at Groby Village Hall Starting at 7.30pm. For Further Details Contact Hon. Secretary Mr. P. Castell Tel. 0116 287 9842 e-mail:- groby.villagesociety@ tiscali.co.uk Non Members are Welcome
3rd
There is still time left to enrol for the watercolour painting sessions starting this September. Artist Mark Wilde is offering 12 week courses at Groby and Woodhouse Eaves for beginners, intermediate and even advanced levels. Daytime and night time classes are available. All 12 week courses are presented in a friendly workshop atmosphere. For dates, times, and other information ring Mark Wilde at 01509 673064.
For people who have dementia or are seeking a diagnosis our dementia adviser service can help. The dementia adviser service offers information for people with dementia and their carers. The service will give the right information to enable them to make the right decisions whilst also signposting to other services which can support the person and their family. The service is for people in the Hinckley & Bosworth area and can be accessed through their GP. For more information contact Helen Whittington Dementia Adviser on 0116 2311111 / 07889604229
Don’t forget to send us your news items!
Churches Together in Groby
Age-group programmes finish at the end of term but there is an informal game of rounders every Monday evening. More details on the church websites or check with Deb 07730 596309.
Catch …
goes on outings
Throughout the summer, the preschool group will meet informally for outings. The next is Fri 24th Aug at Gorse Hill City Farm For details of these please contact Ruth 07759 395072
Fair Cuppa:
an opportunity to meet with friends at the village hall. Every Thursday, 10.30-12.00
Catch meets for play, craft, story & chat for preschool children with a parent or carer. Every Friday in term time, 9.30-11.30am, at the URC.
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 Children/Youth Worker Deb Goodhead 07730 596309
3RD SUNDAY EVENING IS BACK ON 16TH SEPT at 6.30pm SPEAKER: CHRIS BAKER More details in next Spotlight
The play was a great success, but the audience was a disaster.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Quarry Park funding bid unsuccessful Norman Griffiths attends the Community Forum A bid by Groby Parish Council for £5,000 of funding from the Markfield, Ratby and Groby Community Forum was unsuccessful when it came to the vote at the last forum meeting in June. Leicestershire County Council has made available £12,500 per year to the Forum for local communities to invest in local improvement of their choice. The Community Forum Budget is not a regular grants programme. Everyone has an opportunity to contribute, by submitting a project, making comments on proposals, volunteering to assist in the development or delivery of a project or just by voting for favourite projects. The Decision Night is the key event in the process where project representatives, local residents and Councillors come together to prioritise the projects that have been submitted for the Forum area. In effect, they decide on the night which projects are to receive a share of the available Community Forum Budget, voting using electronic handsets. Delegates were asked to vote for the 3 projects they wanted to see supported. The budget was then allocated to projects in priority order, on a provisional basis. The project that has attracted the most votes received the funding they requested, followed by the project with the second most votes and so on - until the budget has been fully allocated.
Groby bids for £5,000 Groby Parish Council put in a bid for funding towards its project to improve facilities at Quarry Park. The aim is to provide something for everyone including a floodlit Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) providing basketball, football, netball, cricket, tennis and street snooker. The MUGA is part of a larger project which includes the football ground, shower and
changing rooms, outdoor gym and a children’s play area. The project is less ambitious than earlier proposals for Quarry Park and part of the funding, including some grants and £100,000 from the Parish Precept, is already in place. The cost of the current project is around £350,000, of which the MUGA floodlighting and cabling is estimated as £21,495. The application to the Community Forum was for cash towards this cost of floodlighting the MUGA area. “The MUGA will as in other areas be popular and the time available for use will be limited by hours of darkness in particular during the winter months,” explained the bid document. “It is for this reason that we intend to install floodlighting that will be operated by a timer and switched on by groups or persons using the facility. Young persons and sporting groups will benefit from this project. The Parish Council will monitor this project and the impact that it has on the problems that exist within the village. We shall work together with the police to ensure that the facility is not abused. The whole project at Quarry Park will be maintained by Groby Parish Council and we will be encouraging young
persons to form groups or clubs as a means to combating anti social behaviour.” It is intended that, subject to forming an agreement, Martinshaw school will also benefit from using the MUGA.
Budget breakdown Other costs included in the £350,000 budget include • Children’s play area and fencing £32,000 • Outdoor Gym equipment £18,000 • Car Park (includes relocating landfill spoil) Total of 39 parking spaces. £75,000 • Sports changing rooms & shower facilities £125,000 • MUGA Fencing, Ground works, Gates, Installation £79,572
Results of the vote The Parish Council project, which received 25% of the votes, was competing for the money with 6 other projects, though a bid for help with funds for the Groby BMX track was withdrawn because of lack of public support, leaving just 5 other contenders. All of the other 5 scored over 50% of the votes. Three were given the full amount of their bids with 2 receiving around 70%, so most of the £12,500 went to Markfield, Ratby, Thornton and Bagworth.
Women who seek to be equal with men lack ambition.
Groby Open Gardens The St Philip & St James church Events Committee would like to thank everyone who supported the Open Gardens weekend in June with special thanks going to those people who worked so hard preparing their gardens for the event. In spite of the awful weather on the Saturday a large number of people visited the gardens and helped us raise £1,350.00 for church funds.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
National Trust Leicester Association NEWS Will you be visiting the Lincolnshire coast this year?
If so, why not visit Gunby Hall near Skegness which is a splendid large redbrick house dating from 1700 with beautiful Victorian walled gardens. It has connections with several famous people and was a favourite haunt of Alfred Lord Tennyson. The property, including a large estate, was granted to the Trust in 1944 but due to the remote rural location it has always been tenanted, with the tenant opening the house on limited occasions. However, at the beginning of this year the tenancy came to an end and by mutual agreement with the tenant the property has come back into full National Trust management. Due to the unexpected “reacquisitionâ€? of the property the Hall is only open on Wednesday and Sunday from 2.00 to 5.00pm and the gardens and tea room are open on five days from Wednesday to Sunday, 11.00am to 5.00pm, but it’s a great day out. More volunteers are being recruited all the time and it is anticipated that the whole property will be open five days a week next year. Two dates for your diary. Firstly the “For One Week Onlyâ€? project at Calke Abbey from 1st to 7th September when a host of National Trust experts ranging from conservators to archaeologists will be on hand to demonstrate how we monitor, explore and document our collections whether they are part of a house or of the natural landscape. Secondly, England’s Heritage Open Days from 6th to 9th September when more than 4,000 fascinating places, many not normally open to the public, will open their doors. Full details can be found on www.heritageopendays.org.uk The National Trust Leicester Association commences its winter programme with an illustrated talk on the Southwell Workhouse, by Norman Parr, on Tuesday 11th September at the Highpoint Conference Centre, Glenfield Road, Leicester, starting at 7.30pm. Admission, including refreshments, is NTLA members ÂŁ2.50 and visitors ÂŁ4.00 For more information on the NT Leicester Association and its Talks Service call 0116 2229133.
Alan Tyler, Chairman
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Condoms arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t completely safe. A friend of mine was wearing one and got hit by a bus.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Village Hall car parking issues Norman Griffiths hears that negotiations are nearly complete Groby Parish Council and the Groby Village Hall Management Committee are close to resolving their differences over how the maintenance of the Village hall car park should be financed. Next month both parties will meet again to dot the i’s and cross the t’s on a ten year deal. If agreed it will help contribute funding for future maintenance and keep the car park available for use by the Council and local residents. There were differences of opinion between the Parish Council and the Village Hall Committee over how car park maintenance should be funded and the installation of a new barrier at the car council, and argued that in time this park entrance. Members were would build into a fund adequate to concerned that staff and visitors to cope with any maintenance costs. the offices might have nowhere to park, as the lease of the premises The hall committee has been occupied by the Council apparently offered grant funding of 25% of the has no provision for parking. In maintenance costs by the County addition to those visiting the Parish Council, and wished to negotiate Office and council chamber the some similar arrangement with the car park is also used by those Parish Council. But the council felt attending functions at the hall and this would be disproportionate and the library. It is also used free of too heavy a burden for residents, charge by local residents for off particularly as the car park is used road parking, visitors to Groby by non-residents. Club, the post office, shoppers and £1000 a year payment even commuters who leave their Following discussions the draft cars and take a bus from the stop agreement provides for an outside. annual payment to the Village Funding became an issue Hall of £1,000 for the next 10 following the ending in 2009 years. In order to enable it to of the agreement between the effectively run the administration Village Hall and the Borough and of the parish from its offices and Leicestershire County Councils. Council Chamber in the village Although the surface is in good hall the council will have free and condition the committee feels it will reasonable use of the car park for need some remedial work in due the business of the council. This will course, probably within the next ten ensure parking for staff, members years. The Parish Council initially and visitors. If it is implemented suggested that the solution was for Groby residents will also have the hall committee to increase the free and reasonable use. This rents charged for both hall bookings condition will no doubt require and the ground rent charged to the further discussion and clarification.
All parties have concerns about, for example, the blocking of car parking spaces by what are sometimes called the ‘park and riders’, those who abuse the facility by parking and then catching a bus for their onward journey. And the Village Hall committee will wish to ensure that there is always adequate parking available for the customers of those who have paid booking fees for activities at the hall, as this is the main source of income for the facility. Council members were told at their August meeting that the agreement is for the benefit of all parties and one of the aims is to set out clear lines of communication, with provision for quarterly liaison meetings. Although the agreement is for ten years there will be a review clause to take account of any change in circumstances, such as a change of use of the car park. If the agreement is signed within the current year a pro-rata payment will be made. Earlier this month the car park was closed for a day to enable car parking spaces to be marked out.
Alcohol may be man’s worst enemy, but the Bible says love your enemy.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Letter from Uncle Eustace
On how to save electricity in church The Rectory St. James the Least
My dear Nephew Darren Your church certainly seems to have taken to the idea of green electricity with a vengeance. To have covered the whole of your roof with solar panels was a brave move, and makes quite a sight – especially when the sun catches them, dazzling motorists on the by-pass and causing multiple pile-ups. I pity the local pigeons, who try to land on it and then do a gentle glissade into the gutters. I know there have been objections to your proposal to erect a wind turbine in your car park – although no one could claim that it spoils the aesthetic appearance of your church. Nothing, my dear Darren, could do that. May I humbly offer you some further suggestions for reducing your electricity consumption. If you cut your sermons by half, then everyone could go home 20 minutes earlier. Similarly, if you only sang each chorus once instead of your customary 17 times, that should cut your service times in half. And why have lighting so good that everyone can see everyone else? That is the last thing our own congregation ever want to do. I raised the issue at our last church council meeting, but having only recently gone on to electricity, there seemed little enthusiasm for yet more change. Major Hastings still fondly remembers our old acetylene plant in the churchyard, destroyed during one Mattins when the verger was unaware of the gas leak and lit up a cigarette. We still occasionally find pieces of his cassock when mowing the grass. Mr Prentice, with a slightly malicious gleam, suggested building a treadmill, to be worked by the Young Farmers – which would also keep them out of the pub while Evensong was taking place. I couldn’t help feeling that our Ladies Group would have far more determination to keep the thing rotating – probably providing enough energy to light the entire County. I was tempted to suggest we invite the vicar from our adjoining parish, St. Agatha’s, to preach every Sunday, as that would fill our church with more than enough hot air. I finally stopped all further discussion on the subject when a solar panel consultant arrived at the Rectory and began his sales pitch with the phrase: “I’ve come to convert you”. Your loving uncle,
Eustace
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Lady Jane Grey Jubilee Dance It is always a good day when you are called into the Head’s office and told to spend some money!
So, it was with much excitement when that happened to me recently. ‘Spend the money so that the whole school benefits ‘– a tall order but one I felt I could accomplish. Most teachers hate teaching dance; we are a self conscious group who are easily out shone with ideas and ability by those that we teach. How brilliant would it be to have a professional teach whole classes a dance each? Fortunately for me, I knew exactly the man for the job. Graham Fletcher has taught dance to thousands of school children over the years he was with Leicestershire Arts In Education. Last year, this valuable service for talented child dancers/ musicians and actors was axed through cutbacks. Graham has since started his own private dance school continuing the work of teaching dance to school children both in and out of school. In the week leading up to the Jubilee, a slot in the busy school time table appeared and Graham put together a series of dances through the year groups. Each class had a dance that when put together as a school, completed a story of celebration. Foundation led a procession which centred around the Queen, nobly played by their teacher, Miss Hunt.; followed by Year 1 who played the part of the gathering crowds and attendants. Year 1/2 became horse s and solders and year 2 became the royal courtiers. All performed to the most stirring and patriotic of music,‘ Pomp and Circumstance’. Key stage 2 classes took to the stage to dance their way through the key musical highlights over the 60 years. ‘The Twist’, was energetically performed by Year 3 who gave way to ‘Saturday Night Fever’, led by a swaggering ‘John Travolta’ (Sean M) to his friends in Year 4. Year 5 started
off with the introduction from ‘Cats’ before breaking into a rendition of the Spice Girls ‘Wannabe’ . Year 6 brought the house down with ‘You can’t stop the beat’ from Hairspray. The adventurous plan was for the entire school dance to take place on the Key stage 2 AstroTurf playground and hope that the weather would be kind to us. For the staff at Lady Jane Grey, it was like receiving a master class in dance which we will store away for later use. However, the real joy came from watching every child enthusiastically take part in a variety of dances, some of whom had never danced before to any standard – let alone to a high standard and to an audience. The quality displayed was even more staggering when you realise that each class had only three hours of tuition from Graham. As a school we all enjoyed the dancing and the fact that we performed together as a school – something that we have never achieved before. The money was well spent leaving us all that took part with a jubilee legacy and ‘the icing on the cake’? The sun shone on us...
Gill Okuniewski
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His finest hour lasted a minute and a half.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
East Midlands Grand Prix Champion for the 11th time! Nicki Nealon, with her 9th victory in the Weedon 10km in June, secured an amazing 11th Championship Title in the East Midlands Grand Prix. In a series based on the best 5 results from 8 races, Nicki started with a 2nd place at the Rugby 6 mile race, this coming only 3 days after having won the Mkt Bosworth Half Marathon. Since that performance Nicki has won all 4 of her other Grand Prix outings. On what is regarded as one of the toughest courses around, Nicki took victory on the notorious Weedon course in a time of 38.54 to finish 25th overall and 1st Lady, 1 min 15 secs ahead of under 20 youngster Rosanna Andrews of Northampton Road Runners. Third place went to current GB International Sue Harrison in a time of 40.23. This victory now gives Nicki 6 wins on the bounce and includes a Half Marathon in Northern France at St Malo (3rd June) and the local Hinckley Town Centre 5km (20th June), along with EMGP victories at the Corby 5 miles (won in 30.34), the Banbury 5 miles (29.54) and the Mkt Harborough 5 miles (30.20). Nicki - now into her 45th year - appears to have hit a purple patch and is currently in the top 10 in the Country for her age category.
Nick Nealon (Nicki’s husband)
Martinshaw sings for LOROS For the third year Martinshaw Primary School has held a concert on behalf of LOROS. The school was asked to step in when Mr Neville Kilworth lost the use of his normal venue at the last minute during 2010. The school choir and Head Mr Andrew Raben are now proudly featured on the front of LOROS’s publicity leaflet. The choir are no strangers to fund raising having been invited, earlier in June with conductor Mrs Steph Ong, to participate in a concert in Loughborough on behalf of the Sue Ryder, Leonard Cheshire Foundation. On Friday 6th July talented young musicians from the school, along with some of Mr Kilworth’s own pupils and ex pupils, came together along with the choir to provide a wonderful evening of musical entertainment. The Concert opened with a piece ‘Theme for Young Lovers’ played by the ‘resident’ Rock Band of Music tutor Mr Neville Kilworth( piano), Mr Jim Hassel, ex parent (lead guitar), Mr Dave Cockayne, drum tutor (drums) and Head, Mr Andrew Raben (bass guitar), with a combined age not quite of Rolling Stones proportions but a similar musicality. The half ended with a rendition, by the choir, of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ as a tribute to the successes of the School Football team at Wembley and included members of staff who had been involved with the team. This very successful evening ended with a number of ‘Rock’ songs from the school choir.
Owen Lawrence
I take my wife everywhere, but she keeps finding her way back.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
LETTER Cat shot by air rifle in Groby Through the Spotlight I would like to share my recent experience and warn readers of the dangers of air-rifles. I took my cat to the vet recently on discovering a hard lump on his leg and the vet immediately ‘diagnosed’ an air-rifle pellet. This was confirmed by an x-ray. The vet said that this was not an unusual occurrence and that he had seen very serious injuries, and worse, caused by air-rifles. Luckily my cat got off lightly. How anybody could deliberately shoot a cat is completely beyond me; I do not believe that a cat could be shot ‘accidently’ as the only mammals that can be shot legally are brown rats, grey squirrels, stoats, mink and rabbits. Through the Spotlight I would like to remind air-rifle users that the law makes no distinction between air rifles and more powerful guns for which you need a licence – they are all classed as firearms. This means that any offence you commit can carry a very heavy penalty – and there are at least 38 different offences. The law imposes restrictions on who is allowed to fire an air-rifle, where it can be used and for what purpose. For example, under the age of 18 it is an offence to : • buy or hire an air rifle, or ammunition, or receive one as a gift. Your air rifle and ammunition must be bought and looked after by someone over 18 – normally your parent, guardian or some other responsible adult. • have an air rifle in a public place unless you are supervised by somebody aged 21 or over, and you have a reasonable excuse to do so (for example, while on the way to a shooting ground). For more information on the current legislation governing the use of airrifles and Codes of Practice endorsed by The Association of Chief Police Officers, I recommend: http://www.basc.org.uk/en/codes-of-practice/airrifles.cfm
Name & Address Supplied
My cousin just died. He was only 19. He got stung by a bee ... the natural enemy of a tightrope walker.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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BROOKVALE HIGH SCHOOL
CELEBRATING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF STUDENTS IN 2011/12 As this academic year ends, staff and students of Brookvale High School have been celebrating the achievements of all with various awards assemblies taking place over the course of the last few weeks of term. One of these events was the annual ‘ACE Award’ Ceremony, which took place on the evening of Tuesday 3rd July 2012. Students were chosen for their outstanding effort and achievement in each subject area with one overall winner for each subject area being presented with a trophy. Teachers explained the reasons for each choice whilst proud parents looked on and took photos. The annual Prom also took place at the end of term. This year there was a Hawaii theme with students arriving in or on all sorts of different vehicles, with friends and family watching each arrival to enjoy the spectacle. Brookvale High School wishes Year 9 students all the very best as they begin their College education, and looks forward to welcoming the new Year 7 students when school begins again at the end of August 2012. Below, is an extract from an article written by two Year 9 girls, as they reflect over the past 3 years of their High School education:
After 3 years here at Brookvale, we have learnt so much due to our fantastic teachers, who have helped us whenever we were in need. Throughout our time here, we have enjoyed our experiences such as Sports Day, International Day, and collapsed timetable days. These days gave us the opportunity to go on trips to places such as places of worship and theme parks. Many students also had a chance to go to France
The Sunday blues... on day trips or for a week. The first 2 years of Brookvale were interesting and exciting. They prepared us for Year 9 and for our College years ahead. Each year, we have learned new skills to help us progress and improve. Year 9 has been a challenge, but a good start to our GCSE’s. We have experienced going to our Colleges, which has given us a clear view of what is to be expected. It was challenging and exciting to meet the new people we will be working with in the years ahead. Friendship groups have been a big part of our lives at Brookvale. It has brought everyone together to enjoy the time we have had here. Running up to the last few weeks at school, we have had th photos 8taken our95Year Book, Page for advert: x 65mm which will be a great memorable item to keep hold of and remind us of our amazing time at Brookvale. In addition, we have had sports presentations and ACE ceremonies to congratulate many students who have outstanding grades and have taken their time
to do their best. We have been given our overall subject levels, which have been astounding. Finally, we have our Prom which will be an amazing night for all attending, as this will be a last time to remember our wonderful time. Many thanks to all the teachers that have given us opportunities and support throughout the years. Cian Bhandal Faye Henderson
Anxiety about your working week begins at 4.13pm on Sunday, according to a recent poll. Sunday blues is characteristically a mild sense of depression about the week ahead, and four out of ten adults admit that their Sunday nights are filled with dread and anxiety, according to the poll by Premier Inn. Research in 2010 by Mind, the mental health charity, found that the recession has increased the sense of fear about returning to work.
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Those two are a fastidious couple. She’s fast and he’s hideous.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
No issue of Spotlight in July, so we are reporting on the special June meeting which was a celebration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and Groby W.I.’s birthday. Our instructions were ‘posh frocks and tiaras’. The result was staggering, W.I.ladies love to dressup so elegance and ‘bling’ was the order of the day; frocks from backs of wardrobes and tiaras ex the Poundshop. The Village Hall looked stunning, a sea of red, white and blue, instead of flowers on tables we had jars of small union flags. The fare was delicious scones with jam and cream served with wine or juice. Many thanks must be expressed to the Committee and helpers responsible for this set-up. Joyce Henderson returned to entertain us with her special kind of magic often involving unsuspecting members. Great fun, except for the lady whose watch was returned at the very last moment. The evening concluded with our Speaker cutting a magnificent iced cake baked and decorated by Jean Jarram, half with the Jubilee theme and half with Happy Birthday. • At the July meeting, two young consultants, in flawless make-up, came to demonstrate ‘Clarins’ beauty products. Julie, the President, was the guinea pig for a make-over. The procedure involved several complicated applications of creams and potions for face and eyes, resulting in Julie’s transformation. Interesting, but the general verdict was that the time taken to achieve the result did not fit into most members’ busy lifestyles. We were given tokens for a free make-up session by ‘Clarins’ reps. and were assured that this would be in their inner-sanctum away from prying public eyes in the John Lewis store. Take your cheque book or cards, there will be temptations. We went prepared for anything, when we set forward on our trip to Abbots Ripton. The day before it just poured and the forecast
Groby WI News was for showers. Abbots Ripton is near Huntingdon, a lovely country House which only opens for various charities for two days every other year. We went last time and thoroughly enjoyed it. The first surprise was on arriving how dry the ground was, they must have had far less rain than good old Groby. Leaving wet weather gear in the car we set out to the grounds. As usual there were the usual grade stands, plenty of plant stalls, clothing stalls selling hats, woollens etc all very different from the fashion we see in town. There were a number of food stalls, I swear some folk never stopped eating and drinking from them, no need to bring food just graze. All were “homemade, sausages, pork pies, cheeses etc plus various wines and cordials. Of course, we tried a few, in fact I even bought a few sausages to take home (hubby’s very partial to the odd banger!). Around the other side of the lovely house is a large, beautiful manicured lawn (again no sign of wet). On this the local WI were doing tea and cakes with tables and chairs set out. Along side this was a band area where throughout the day many different ones played. Also in the main area another band stand had again an assortment of bands, so throughout the grounds there was music all around. The actual gardens whilst not massive were immaculate and beautiful, all going down to a parkland and lake, extremely picturesque and the sun continued to shine. Our car on going home was full of goodies and loads of plants. A gorgeous day out, we were very lucky. Eight of us did another walk mostly in Derbyshire. We started from Calke Abbey Car Park lead by my local volunteer pals again. We walk at a leisurely pace going off the main footpaths going on to lesser known paths. The walks around there are lovely, not too
hilly and because our leader is local she is a mine of information about local knowledge. The N.T. are in the process of doing a circular walk along the old tramway system. They have so far covered quite a bit of ground and will make it easier for those who prefer a track. The old tramways are where the ponies travelled to and from the local lime works etc. We reached Staunton Harold, by then were in need of a cuppa. I had my cuppa but feeling a little peckish treated myself to a bacon cob, lovely. Then round the bottom of the Reservoir and into Calke again going passed the Church, where I would be on the following Wednesday, another lovely walk. Considering the weather this summer, I cannot believe how lucky we have been. We normally have a picnic in the Park at Kilworth House but because of unpredictable weather, we just visited the Theatre. “Me and My Girl” was the production and it was excellent. Against all odds the weather held but as we left the rain clouds began
to appear and later it just threw it down. Another summer event was the Garden Party which had been arranged in a member’s lovely garden. However, we decided at the last minute to hold it in the Village Hall and rename it a “Waterproof Garden Party”. The time was changed from the afternoon until the morning so we were very apprehensive as to how it would go. I needn’t have worried it was a great success. We set out tables covered with Union Jack clothes, a member brought in a large number of potted plants and the Hall began to look like a garden. All around were various stalls, the usual, plants, tombola, raffle etc. The tables had waitress service, very posh and from the noise everyone appeared to enjoy themselves. Another successful do. Next months meeting sounds as though it should be very interesting, a talk by Robert Gregory who was a senior fingerprint officer. This takes place on Thursday l6th August at 7.30pm at the Village Hall, I have never had mine taken but there’s always a first time!
Evelyn Ward and Margaret Gamble
Local video hire shop closes after 30 years Glenfield Moviezone has closed its doors after serving local film fans for three decades. Mike and Lorna Neal took over the business in November 2002, when video hire was all the rage, but technology marched on and they soon faced competition from the newly developed slimline DVD. Mike explains: “For a while we had both videos and DVDs for hire, but videos were a dying breed and more and more of our customers were buying the new DVD players and dumping their video recorders. “Of course, in the last few years Blu Ray and then 3D was introduced, although they never seemed to take off locally. “With the advent of SKY, LoveFilm, Netflix and downloads (legal or otherwise!), the video hire shop has had its day and it was with sadness that we closed earlier this year.. “The shop has been on Faire Road in Glenfield for around 30 years but we suspect that it will be missed mostly by the younger customers who enjoyed the bargain-priced sweets and drinks we sold! We shall miss the camaraderie of members and thank them for their support over the years.”
The trouble with life is there’s no background music.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Letter
Graffiti incidents Are you able to squeeze in a plea for anyone who recognises the graffiti ‘tags’ in the attached photos to contact us? It is an example of some of the graffiti found in and around Groby and Ratby recently. The Borough Council has already contacted various utility companies to ask them to remove the graffiti from their property and we’re working closely with the police to identify the offenders. Now we are appealing to local residents for their help in identifying the person or people responsible for this graffiti. We would urge anyone who recognises the ‘tag’ or has any information to contact the Neighbourhood Wardens on 01455 255977. We may pass on the cost of the clean up to the offender.
Groby�Group THURSDAY�Evenings Open�All�Year�Round Groby Community College, Ratby Road,�Groby LE6�0GE 5.30�pm�Start�&�7.00�pm�Start Tel:�Hazel�on 0116�287�9272 or�07817�303018 Email:�hazel_slimmingworld@hotmail.co.uk
Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council
Don’t use speech marks! Want to know the easiest way to irritate other people? Use some of the sarcastic, modern hand gestures in daily communication. Currently the ‘speech marks’ made by curling the index and middle fingers of both hands is riding high, as is motioning people to ‘talk to the hand’ by extending one arm towards them while looking awy. Indicating ‘blah blah blah’ and pretending to yawn are also top in the irksome group. Goggle Eyes, a software developer who commissioned the survey, said; “We all use hand gestures to express ourselves from time to time, and some can be seen as patronising or unnecessarily dramatic, which others find tedious. The study also found that people use an average of four hand gestures a day. Beware - people said that when they see too many hand gestures, they get angry.
I try to take one day at a time - but sometimes several days attack me at once.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
National Citizen Service: Helping Young People to Improve Society The National Citizen Service is a flagship government youth policy. It aims to bring 16 year olds together and to promote: • a more cohesive society through encouraging a mixture of teenagers from different backgrounds • a more responsible society by encouraging teenagers to become more mature and • a more engaged society through giving young people the opportunity to engage in dynamic team building activities and encourage the building of useful skills and appreciation of their local community. NCS took off in the summer of 2011 and over 8,000 youths took part. This year 30,000 places were made available. The Government intends to make this a ‘rite of passage’ for all 16 year olds. It is being coordinated by the cabinet office in collaboration with the department of education.
What does it involve? The National Citizen Service involves a three week commitment from the teenagers and it accommodates three different aspects. In the first week, all the youths taking part from different backgrounds, ethnicities and religions are given the opportunity to go on a week-long residential trip away from home. This year’s trip was to Staffordshire where the youths stayed at Whitemoor Lakes. During this week the participants are able to really come together, learn to trust each other and really bond as a team through engaging in a lot of physical and mental challenges. In the second week, they come together in their assigned groups to plan and prepare for a social action/ volunteering project that benefits their local community in any way possible. The youths spend approximately 30 hours doing the community project. This is followed by a graduation and celebration event which is to recognise the youths’ work and credit them for it and also to encourage others to get involved next time.
What do the participants have to say about their experience of NCS? Beatrice Tosho (16 years old) Leicester, said: “It has been a fantastic experience so far and we are not even finished yet! I’ve met so many amazing people over the last 10 days and in the week in Staffordshire did things I never thought I’d have the opportunity to do in my life. It has definitely been worthwhile and is a once in a lifetime opportunity. It is so great particularly because it’s free which provides EVERYONE with the chance to enjoy this great experience.”
Sami Kissai (15 years old) Leicester, said: “Over the past 10 days, I’ve met the floor more than I feel I should have, and the words 1, 1000, 2, 1000, 3, 1000 will be forever imprinted in my mind. I’ve met new people and renewed old friendships and had a pretty good time. My favourite part of this whole experience so far is that everyone can take a joke and we’ve all bonded together as a group.”
William Murfitt (16 years old) Leicester, said: “I really feel like we came together as a team in the past few days and that I’ve worked with people I never thought I’d work with. I’m looking forward to paying back the community through voluntary
Want to find out more? To find out how to get involved, Visit the National Citizen Service website at nationalcitizenservice.direct.gov.uk
HAVING FUN: Team Korbut work because it’s everyone’s responsibility to help.”
Lucie Muton (16 years old) Leicester, said: “The past few days have been great! I have achieved things that I never would imagine I would. I have overcome fears that I have had as long as I can remember. We still have over a week and a half left. I feel that I have made many more friends and become more confident in myself. So far this experience has been fantastic!”
Zak Beeston Clarke (16 years old), said: “At the residential at Whitemoor Lakes in Staffordshire last week, I was involved in a lot of team activities and my favourite was Archery. I feel I now work much better in a team and the experience has given me the necessary skills to work effectively in a team and contribute to a voluntary work activity that will benefit the community of Bagworth.”
Matthew Chambers (15 years old) said: “On the residential trip in Staffordshire, we came together as a group to complete challenges and win games. The second half of the NCS project consists of planning and putting into action a piece of voluntary work which will greatly benefit the community of Bagworth.”
Ryan Williamson (16 years old) said: “Had an amazing week and have enjoyed meeting a large number and variety of new people. Enjoyed working with my team to complete everything else effectively, and with the humour and banter we have made our friendships strong.”
Glenfield U3A Glenfield U3A is a flourishing and friendly group of people who meet every month. Current membership is well over 100. Meetings take place every fourth Thursday, so September’s will be on the 27th, and the speaker is Helen Peden. Her topic will be ‘Jane Eyre, tales behind the tale’. Why not come along and try for yourself? You’ll be made most welcome! There are various groups and activities held at different days and times, which help to keep active in mind and body. These include physical activities such as gardening, indoor bowls, walking, Tai Chi; less physical ones such as luncheon, theatre, games, computer; and other interests such as holidays and days out. Full details can be obtained at the monthly meeting. For more information, look on our website www.u3asites.org.uk/ glenfield (click on the “Contact” tab and complete the form.) Alternatively, you can telephone Membership Secretary Janet Fenton on 0751 402 0654, or Chairperson Carol Knill on 0116 291 9464. Meetings are at 2.00pm on the fourth Thursday of each month, at St Peter’s Church Centre, Glenfield.
When do you hit the emails? When does your working day begin? On average, we begin at 6.51 am each morning. That is the time that the average Briton sits up in bed and checks their work related emails or texts. With 93 per cent of employees continuing to work after they have left the office, the chances of a 5pm finish have all but disappeared. Before laptops, it was difficult to work outside the office. Now, with today’s ‘always on’ society, we are pretty much working from the moment we wake up until the moment we fall asleep.
Shrinking lunch break One in six workers takes a midday break of less than 10 minutes, a study has found. A survey by the cheese spread Primula has found that 52 per cent of us spend between 11 and 30 minutes over lunch, while only a fortunate 4 per cent of us get to go home for lunch.
Every once in a brownish-purple moon, I worry that I might be colour blind.
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13 Leicester Road, Groby, Leicestershire LE6 0DQ
WE HAVE MOVED
Anstey Motor Company have moved from Cropston Road, Anstey and are now trading from a new indoor and outdoor facility located in Thurmaston village.
Mel and Lyn Thorpe would like to thank all our customers for their business, and kind support over the last 7 years,and hope to see you again in the future at our new place 643C MELTON ROAD,THURMASTON,LEICESTER, LE4 8EB
TELEPHONE 0116 2694141 www.ansteymotorcompany.co.uk Email sales@ansteymotorcompany.co.uk
Everyone’s invited
Join in Leicester’s traffic free bike ride
Sunday 26 August 2012 Take a guided ride into the traffic free city centre from the hub at Watermead Country Park South, Thurmaston ‘Show me the way’ rides, start at 9.20 am, 10.00 am, 10.40 am and 11.20 am. All rides are to Abbey Park and will take approximately half an hour. To register in advance visit www.goskyride.com/leicester
For more information about the Watermead Hub email choosehowyoumove@leics.gov.uk or call 0116 305 7178
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Groby Gardening Society News June 14th Meeting It was unfortunate that our scheduled speaker was unwell and could not deliver his talk on Angel pelargoniums. Thankfully, he was able to find an admirable substitute in Mike Darch. Mike was clearly a pelargonium enthusiast and quickly explained the history of the discovery of pelargoniums in South Africa and distinguished them from the hardy, perennial geraniums. He demonstrated his method of propagation by cuttings and proceeded to give an informative and interesting talk and slide show with regal, angel and scented pelaragoniums as the central theme. His own collection is wintered in his greenhouse with a temperature of no less than 4-50C. Although he professed to be very disordered, he said he managed to be very rigid in his greenhouse and plant hygiene. Every October and March he drenches his collection with Provado solution. This systemic treatment eliminates the problems of white fly, green fly and vine weevils. He also fumigates his greenhouse every autumn.
Trip to Sudeley Castle and Stratford-UponAvon We set off for Sudeley with an overcast and threatening sky, but rain held off whilst we journeyed to Evesham for our 30 minute comfort stop. Some were fortunate enough to see lots of youngsters performing various art forms, including folk dancing, in the town centre. Skilful driving took us down some uncomfortably narrow Gloucestershire lanes before finally arriving at Sudeley.
Sudeley Castle
The visit was enjoyable although the weather did deteriorate with blustery winds and quite frequent heavy showers. The gardens, pheasantry and castle displays were worthwhile, with the special Catherine Parr exhibition deserving a special mention. Viewing this was an additional £1.50 per person and it was noted that at least two of the party brazenly got in free of charge! The café made a welcome oasis of warmth and comfort with the centre piece of a roaring fire being especially enjoyed. An uneventful, but picturesque journey to Stratford followed Sudeley and here members of the party indulged in retail therapy, conducting a survey of Stratford cafes or chilling out at one of the many hostelries. We arrived back in Groby at about 7pm and reflected that G.G.S. members had shown that the bulldog spirit is alive and well!
home-made wine (from allotment grapes) were available. We were all made extremely welcome by Simon and his three friends who helped to make the evening such a success. Quite a few of us left with a tinge of envy at the quality of crops and their advanced state. The evening raised almost £300 for Simon’s heart charity.
The Village Show We all at G.G.S. hope that you may just be reading this in time to come and support the Village Show at the Village Hall. The doors open at 2.30, but hopefully many have already exhibited for the morning judging session. The Show’s success, and therefore its future, depends upon local support.
The Brascote BBQ
The Fish and Chip Supper
After a lovely day, the weather predictably turned for the worst as our evening at Brascote allotments drew near.
This social evening is planned for October 25th and the usual signing board is available.
This did not deter about fifty members from having a really pleasant time being shown around Simon Morgan’s allotments, chicken coops and apiary. Simon has about fifty chickens that have been rescued from slaughter after spending a year in an intensive egg-laying regime. They produce about 15-20 eggs per day which are sold locally. The money raised is used to completely fund everything else on his plots. His enthusiasm for bee-keeping is evident and he has now started selling starter kits in an attempt to get more people involved in the hobby. Simon’s hospitality was the highlight of the evening when he served chicken curry, rice and yogurt dressing followed by strawberry and rhubarb pancakes. Soft drinks, beer and
Simon Morgan with his bees
Give Alvar a ring if you cannot attend our meetings, but would like to be included.
Forth coming events August 18th - The Annual Village Show September 13th - The return of the Chrysanthemum We always welcome new members and casual guests at our monthly meetings that 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
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OPEN LETTER Dear British Olympic Association
Team GB Success London Olympics 2012 On behalf of the Council and citizens of Hinckley and Bosworth Borough, I write to offer my congratulations to Team GB for their collective and individual achievements in securing an amazing total of 65 medals during the 2012 Olympiad, surpassing our achievement in Beijing, and for finishing third in the final medal table. What a triumph! The whole team, whatever their sport, and medals or no medals, has been an inspiration to all of us, particularly to young people, who will now see sport in a far more positive light than they would prior to the start of this Olympics. The whole nation should be proud of what has been achieved by Team GB over the last two weeks in both sporting excellence and in the organisation of what has been a superb event. As a community we share fully in that sense of pride. The legacy left by such a successful Olympics will be more people involved in sport at all levels, what a truly inspirational experience the Olympics has been. Thank you, Team GB, London and the UK.
Councillor Martin Cartwright Mayor, Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council
Daydreaming is good Children who are encouraged to daydream may well find that their concentration is boosted, along with their memory and moral judgement.
Folk dancing in Evesham
Never tell a lie unless it is absolutely convenient.
Research suggests that although introspection may be hard to come by in this intensely busy digital age, times of peaceful introspection help our brains to build memories, make meaning and transfer that learning into net contexts. The research, done at the University of Southern California, found that when children are given the time for reflection, they often become more motivated, less anxious, perform better, and plan more effectively.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Club, Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287 1809 www.grobyclub.co.uk Sat 18th Augost: Tony Beltz Sun 19th August: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 24th August: Pure Logic Sat 25th August: Kellie Leigh Sun 26th August: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri31st August: Keith Dee Sat 1st September: Soul Providers Sun 2nd September: Super Sunday ‘50’
Community Forum
Set the agenda for your area People are being invited to set their area’s agenda, by submitting issues for their community forum to consider. Leicestershire County Council wants to encourage people to lead key decisions about their neighbourhood, by taking part in one of the 25 community forums that have been running since 2008. The council is inviting people to suggest topics for the next round of community forums, between September and November. Each one is attended by members of the council and other local agencies, like the police. Examples of issues that people could raise include the future shape of services, funding opportunities, tackling anti-social behaviour and creating jobs and training. Cabinet member for the Big Society, Blake Pain, said: “We think that local residents often know best about the way to improve their area – community forums put them in the driving seat. “By putting people together with key local agencies, we can help them to find a way forward.” To find out which forum covers your area and for more details about how to get involved, see www.leicestershireforums.org
Friendly Badminton Club Requires Players at Groby Community College on Wednesdays between 8pm & 10pm Tel: 0116 267 5800
Fri 7th September: Tba Sat 8th September: Reverb
Sun 9th September: Super Sunday ‘50’
Fri 14th September: Tba Sat 15th September: Josie
Sun 16th September: Super Sunday ‘50’
The Nag’s Head, Station Road, Glenfield T: 0116 287 2794 Sun 26th August: GALA DAY, with VERTIGO, plus lots of fun activities. SEE ADVERT on page 27. The Bricklayer’s Arms 213 Main Street Thornton T: 01530 230 808 QUIZ Nite: Thursdays ANNUAL FUN DAY on Saturday 1st September - all welcome. www.bricklayersarms.net The Club, Thornton Main Street. T: 01530 230251 Open to Non-Members Sat 25th August: Pick & Play + Karaoke Sat 8th September: The Cheeze We Also Have Bingo Every Tuesday Evening - All Welcome www.myspace.com/thorntonclub The Coach & Horses Leicester Road, Field Head Tel: 01530 242 312 KARAOKE Night: Sat 25th August with ‘King of the Road’.
FUN IN THE GARDEN on Bank Holiday Monday 27th August - 12 noon start - with Bouncy Castle & much more! The Field Head Hotel Markfield Lane, Markfield Tel: 01530 245454 Tribute Nights/£2 Entry after 7pm. Fri 14th September: TINA TURNER Bagworth Working Men’s Club, Station Road, Bagworth. Tel. 01530 230205 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. £1.00 admission 8 pm Tea Dance Wednesday afternoon 2 – 4 pm. £1 admission. Saturday 18th August - SOCIAL SEQUENCE DANCE - 8pm: £ 1 entry Saturday 25th August - 8pm: JAYNE LESLEY (vocalist) - FREE entry For further details, tel: 01530 230205 The Bulls Head Forest Road, Markfield T: 01530 242541 Garden & Pub Games etc. The Queen’s Head Ashby Road, Markfield. T: 01530 242 496 ALL SKY SPORTS & ESPN
Send details of your LOCAL pub and club entertainments and we’ll include them in this column FREE! Amazing!
I wish people who have trouble communicating would just shut up.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Lights, cameras and (maybe), action Norman Griffiths reports on improvements planned for the A50
Road safety and the A50 and not terms that sit comfortably in the same sentence, but at last there is hope that new measures proposed for the road will improve the situation. The changes will affect that part of the road between Junction 22 of the M1 and the A46 Groby roundabout.
The A50 has been in the news because of the issue of free school transport from Field Head to Groby Community College and the debate about whether it is a safe or unsafe walking route for young people. The speed limit along Leicester Road, Field Head and at the Lena Drive/Wallace Drive section of the A50 is to be reduced from 50mph to 40mph, and it has been suggested that perhaps the two matters may be connected. Groby Parish Council was told at its August meeting that although long overdue the speed reduction raises the issue of enforcement and perhaps the need for another speed camera. Two gaps in the central reservation of the ‘Groby Bypass’ section of the A50 are to be closed to prevent vehicles making u-turns and a ‘sight screen’ is to be erected on the central reservation on the approach to the A46 Groby roundabout to reduce driver visibility. There is one already on the A50 to make drivers slow down as they approach the island at Junction 22 of the M1. Green light for traffic control It is perhaps the other news, about the A50/A46 roundabout, that will
The lay-by on the ‘Markfield Bypass’ section of the A50, close to the pedestrian subway, is to be closed. Moving towards Groby the Field Head ‘landfill roundabout’ has long been a blackspot with several high-sided vehicles toppling over in the last few years, sometimes spilling their loads on to the road. A new vehicle activated sign at Leicester Road, Field Head will warn drivers of heavy goods vehicles of the adverse camber and hopefully help avoid further such accidents.
d Search Puzzle
be most welcomed. Parish Council members were told that at long last there is a proposal to install traffic lights. Back in the autumn of 2010 came the news that the Park and Ride scheme which had been proposed for the Leicester side of the roundabout was likely to be shelved. Some residents were relieved as they felt that it would generate more traffic and congestion, as well as resulting in part of the remaining open land between the bypass and Gynsill Lane disappearing under concrete. On the other hand much needed traffic lights for the island seemed to depend on the scheme. “The Government has said that funding for major schemes is on hold, pending the spending review this October, so work on Glenfield park and ride is currently suspended,” a County Council spokesman said at the time. “Improvements to the A46/A50 roundabout were due to be linked to this park and ride but in light of developments, we will review our approach which will be determined by the funding
available.” It looks now as if two large residential developments in the area will not only increase the pressure on the roundabout but also make the funding available for improvements. The first was the new housing estate to be built opposite Anstey cemetery. This will draw traffic to the A50 and the A46 and may well be a preferred exit for those on the estate who wish to avoid driving through Anstey. The developers are required to fund improvements to the island but this seems to stop short of lights. More recently approval has been given for a major development on a site in Blaby District Council area situated on the other side of the A46 near the M1. The cash for traffic lights will be part of the cost of developing this site. But every silver lining has a cloud, to misquote the old saying. The bad news for Groby residents is that the forecast is that the work could take up to 13 months to complete, so when it eventually begins there could be delays and disruption.
http://puzzlemaker.di
GOLD MEDALLIST WORDSEARCH Win a Sunday Lunch Main Course for Four at CAFE 7, Within Sevenoaks Nursery, Groby Lane, Newtown Linford. W D E I L S N I A N E B N B Z Y N
Y R F U P M R Y A Y Z T I C X O T
R O D G V U V C M E T Y C L T D Z
F F S B Q O G O G O D A O E N O G
ANDYMURRAY BENAINSLIE
B R D N G N F Z R K Q J L Y B J J
X E A M I A R T R T E D A A E A O
L H H S R G A Z D S N E A R M K R
D T H A I R G D S E J Z D R R I A
S U H H U R Z I P W R L A U G U Z
Y R V A D O C A W L Y G M M P B E
R G L Q D A I H S Y P N S Y F W O
S E Q P E R H H R N E D E D R O J
O R M N O O T F M I M L X N X I G
D G N T P M T Z D R S P D A B U U
E I C E C J I A G G U H W A B S W
S I E D M C K E E V E R O Q R B C
V L L E B P M A C E K U L Y U B A
Subscriber
If you can find 12 TEAM GB GOLD MEDALLISTS in the Wordsearch grid, you could win a SUNDAY LUNCH MAIN COURSE FOR FOUR at CAFE SEVEN, Sevenoaks Garden Centre, Near Groby Pool. All you have to do to go into the draw is find - and mark a line through - the names of 12 TEAM GB GOLD MEDALLISTS. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). Send your marked entry forms to: ALWAYS BELIEVE IN YOUR SOUL, Groby & Field Head Spotlight, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Saturday 30th June 2012. Please remember to fill in your name and address. The sender of the first correct entry drawn out of the hat will win the CAFE SEVEN voucher. Good luck!
Here are the OLYMPIC CHAMPS you have to find: ANDY MURRAY • BEN AINSLIE • BRADLEY WIGGINS ED MCKEEVER • GREG RUTHERFORD • JESSICA ENNIS LAURA TROTT • LUKE CAMPBELL • MO FARAH NICOLA ADAMS • SIR CHRIS HOY • VICTORIA PENDLETON Name: ................................................................................................. Address: ................................................................................................ .................................................................Postcode: .............................
Last Month’s Wordsearch Winner The winner of last issue’s Wordsearch competition was: MRS KATH STEVENSON, of Carmen Grove, Groby. You win a Sunday Lunch Main Course for Four at Cafe Seven, Sevenoaks Garden Centre, near Groby Pool. Congratulations! Your prize will be with you soon.
If you’re not living on the edge, you’re taking up too much space.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
Groby Allotment Society News John Thornton writes: “What a strange year for allotments, a cold start, then drought followed by continual rain. I will let Kathy our secretary explain how the judging went and fellow member Richard wax lyrical about his plot.” First Kathy: It never rains but it pours. Friday July the 6th, that was the day we booked the judge from the Leicester Judges Guild to come and judge our plots. The process begins in February when I contact the Guild to ask them to supply a judge and we always hope for decent weather, in fact if it’s too hot it can be uncomfortable as judging the two sites can take up to three and a half to four hours depending on the number of plots to judge and whether the judge brings one or more students. When I book I am always asked if we will have a student judge, naturally we say yes because it is an opportunity for them to learn first hand from a qualified judge. My role in all this is to escort them round the site leaving them to their deliberations, supplying tea and biscuits afterwards, I’m perfectly happy with this arrangement, at least I know how to make tea. I think we hoped it would stop raining at some point from April to June but it didn’t and that Friday was the wettest it has ever been. I made a phone call to ask if the event would go ahead. The judge was on her way, we are a hardy lot. I was able to take damp score sheets to the shed to dry out which is more than can be said for me. My rain coat was so wet the rain had seeped through the sleeves and was busy making my dressings damp. I had had an operation on my hand a week before and under no circumstances was I allowed to get my dressing wet. We had at least another half an hour to go, what was I going to do? I found some foil in the shed, enough to wrap my arm in, it saved the day. Job done we squelched back to my house for a cuppa and to add up the scores. The results are as follows. Well done to the winners and everyone else who has struggled with the elements and slugs. 1st Plot 31 Ratby Road site 2nd Plo t 37b Ratby Road site 3rd Plot 53c Ratby Road site Best newcomer category: Plot 30b Ratby Road
Rain, rain, go away – come again another day, thoughts from Richard. I just love singing those hymns and carols, especially at Harvest time and Christmas, but right now there is one that is sticking in my throat. I’m OK with the first few lines: We plough the fields and scatter the good seed on the land, But then I have a little problem: ‘Where it is fed and WATERED.’ Perhaps you can see and possibly share my problem. We’ve ploughed the plots, well, dug them over and applied the muck; we’ve scattered the seeds, or more correctly, placed them carefully in the ground at the correct depth and distance from each other; and they have been assiduously fed. The difficult bit is this word ‘watered’. By mid-July I had had enough, and I am one of the lucky ones with a plot near the top – heaven help those towards the bottom, they must have been seriously considering planting rice ... if it had been a bit warmer. Then there has been the produce. If anyone planted new potatoes, salad potatoes, second early potatoes, and staggered a couple of main crops, they may have noticed that, instead of growing like the books say, every plant bloomed with green leaves at exactly the same time. And when to pull them out of the ground? Again, the books say, wait until the leaves have died off or gone yellow, but they just stayed green. Eventually I succumbed to the demand for no more supermarket tatties and dug some out. Lo and behold! Three tiny potatoes on one plant, then another plant and a few more potatoes, but each one artistically decorated with little white spots ... the blighters. However it has been good for some – the slugs and snails. I am, I understand, not alone in becoming a mass murderer this year. Chemical companies have been raking it in: I read that Bayer (a Dutch company big enough to have its own premier league football team – that’s how much money they make!) has reported a rise in
sales of slug pellets of 147%. I’ll accept that: everybody I know has been strewing the little blue pellets around like confetti. But it’s often a losing battle. Strawberry plants have had a great year, it’s just a pity that without the sun and heat, their fruit stayed on the sodden earth and played a big role in increasing the size of the slugs who escaped the pellet artillery. Which brings me neatly round to the good things about being an allotment holder. Forget the nebulous Big Society and the economic woes with their ‘We’re all in this together’ slogan; when the rains came and turned beautifully laid out allotments into mud baths, we really were, all in it together. We can whinge and moan, but if we can’t do anything to stop the rain, then why bother. This year there’s been a bumper crop of weeds, so at least something is growing, but you tend not to hear allotment holders complaining. They just get on with hoeing and weeding, and ... most importantly talking to each other about it. Being an allotment holder is, I believe, 75% about growing things to eat, and a good 25% chatting, sharing, chewing the cud and generally being out of the house and in the fresh (wet) air. There’s been another bumper crop this year – raspberries. So good that I have followed the advice of the late, great Bob Marley, and I really have been ‘jammin’. I suppose the only downside is that every fete from now to next spring will be groaning under the weight of jars of jam. Ah well, it still tastes good. Putting things into a little perspective. I am not aware of any allotment holders who are suffering from malnutrition, so we will just get on and hope for a proper summer next year. In the words of the famous Spike Jones song: Wait a minute... It stopped raining! Mother, father, kindly disregard this letter!
Support your local Search & Rescue Unit. Get lost.
Give your Kids the Truth about Drugs
AwardWinning Lecturer’s “TheTruth About Drugs” on DVD As parents and teachers you naturally want to keep your children safe from drugs. You want to teach them the right things in the right way so they will make the right choices. • But how do you approach the difficult subject of drugs so that they will listen? • How do you talk to them about drugs so they get the message? Peter Dwan, himself a husband and father, is a former British martial arts champion who has represented England at international level. He has worked for many years with the youth of England, using the discipline of martial arts and sport in general as a method of building character, good conduct and self respect. He has delivered the Truth about Drugs to thousands of young people with the very successful Narconon® lecture format. His work earned him the Key 103 and Barclaycard Make a Difference Award. Peter has now committed one of his lectures to DVD so that it can be used in schools or by parents to bring the truth about drugs to as many children as possible as easily as possible. If you want to educate your children about drugs in a way that really communicates to them, then this DVD can be a vital and potent weapon in your armoury. You can simply bring Peter into your school or home by showing children the DVD or learn from it how to successfully present the truth about drugs to children in a way that really gets through to them. It is a small investment for a very big (and drug-free) future. You can read about Peter Dwan’s ‘Truth About Drugs’ lecture online at www.drug-lecture.org Price: £15 (includes p&p).
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
I got strip searched at the airport. Why those customs officers had to take their clothes off I’ve no idea.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-August 2012 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Crime Figures for July 2012 The following incidents were reported to the Police in the local area during July 2012. Description
Groby
House Burglaries Actual: Anstey Lane Attempted:
1 Actual 0 Attempted
Garage, Shed, Outbuilding Burglaries Actual: Leicester Road Attempted:
Field Head 0
1 Actual 0 Attempted
0
Theft of Motor Vehicle:
0
0
Theft from Motor Vehicle: Ratby Road, Markfield Road
2
0
Damage to Motor Vehicle:
0
0
Non-Domestic Assaults
0
0
Assault - Harassment
4
0
Crimes That Don’t Affect Residents Homes or Cars
15
2
TOTAL (Actual)
23
2
TOTAL (Attempted)
0
0
Theft: 1 / Damage: 1 / Other: 13
Groby NHW Calendar of Events 2012 Groby Village Hall, New room to the rear of the main hall Thursday 13th September 2012 at 7.30pm Thursday 6th December 2012 at 7.30pm PC 0918 Ned Kelly • Sergeant Matthew Trott
Glenfield Millennium Green News After the excitement of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations on the Millennium Green it has been a relatively quiet summer for us. The poor weather has made gardening more difficult and hedges have put up so much growth that these have needed to be cut earlier than usual. It has also been a problem mowing the large areas of grass. One cut had to be cancelled altogether and another was late. As a result when the contractors managed a cut it left lots of mown grass around. When the sun has managed to break through the clouds the Green is well used, especially now the school holidays are here. The Millennium Green Trust has been one of 60 community groups chosen by the Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire and Rutland to be given a Queens Diamond Jubilee Award. All the awards were presented to groups who have shown that their community has done something exceptional and positive to develop a community spirit and enrich the lives of its members and the wider community. A short summary of the reasons we got the award was given as we were presented with a plaque which will be displayed on the notice board on the Green. “Glenfield Millennium Green Trust received an award for its creation and development of a green space from a former wasteland and involving the community in planting schemes, providing a focus for local people, a centre for celebration and quiet enjoyment” Full details of all winners and photographs from the Awards evening of July 19th can be seen on the Lord Lieutanants website and following the links for the Photographic Gallery / Awards. The web address is www.leics. gov.uk/lieutenancy. So well done to everyone who has helped in any way in setting up the Millennium Green, who continues to help in its maintenance and who uses it as community facility. The Trust could not have succeeded without community support.
Christine Tordoff
Chairman Glenfield Millennium Green Trust
Local crime news in more detail is available at www.groby.org.uk Information supplied by Martin Cartwright, Secretary - Groby Branch Neighbourhood Watch Tel: 0116 2874500 • Mobile: 07850 707050 Email: neighbourhoodwatch@appliancehome.co.uk In An Emergency dial 999. Contact the local police on 0116 222-2222.
The National Forest Wood Fair Sunday 26 & Monday 27 August 2012 10am – 5pm Beacon Hill Country Park, Woodhouse Eaves, Leicestershire, LE12 8SP Smell the sawdust! Hear the throttle of chainsaws! With a full programme of demonstrations, ‘have a go’ wood craft sessions and children’s fun and games, the National Forest Wood Fair guarantees to keep adults and children entertained for the whole Bank Holiday weekend! A highlight of the weekend will be the first ever UK Championship Log to Leg race. Bodgers’ Corner will be frantic with shavings flying, pole lathes whirring – come and cheer them on! See lumberjack displays, chainsaw carving, horse logging and timber hauling demonstrations. Enjoy delicious locally-sourced food and drink. Children will love the ecoart, songs and stories from the Wild Man of the Woods, the birds of prey and the climbing wall. There’s free park and ride from County Hall and entry discount for cyclists. Adults £9; concessions £6; families £19 (includes parking)
Buy online in advance and save £1 per ticket at www.nationalforestwoodfair.co.uk I always arrive late at the office, but I make up for it by leaving early.
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