New Anstey housing Gifts are on the way could mean longer to Romanian children queues on the A50
Once again Groby United Reformed Church is reaching out to people less fortunate. Around 110 children in Romania will experience joy this Christmas when they receive a shoebox donated by our church. They will know someone here in Groby loves them enough to spend the time, money and effort creating a special present just for them On Sunday 7th November Young Church watched a video about the difference a shoebox can make to a child in need, before spending the rest of the session filling an amazing
Norman Griffiths reports on Davidsons proposals
The location and extent of the potential development. Visit www.pegasuspg.co.uk/ anstey for more information.
A proposal to build new homes in Anstey could be bad news for Groby residents, adding to traffic problems at the A46/A50 roundabout. No planning application has yet been made, but in October Davidsons, the developer, held an exhibition in Anstey indicating that 200 houses could be built. The new development would be sited on fields opposite Anstey cemetery, just one kilometre as the crow flies from the A50 intersection. There would only be one exit from the development on to Groby Road, Anstey, and motorists would then have two options. They could turn left towards Anstey and access Bradgate Road at an already difficult junction, or they could turn right towards Groby and join the busy A50 from the slip road near the TURN TO PAGE 2
96 boxes with gifts of all shapes and sizes and writing their name on a card to go inside the box A further 14 ready-made boxes were donated by young people in Urban Saints. Our shoeboxes have now been collected, but if any-one still wishes to donate a shoebox, Samaritan’s Purse has just launched Shoebox World, the UK’s first ever online shoebox initiative, where you can create your own virtual shoebox. Why not take a look at: http://www.samaritans-purse. org.uk/article/606/shoebox-worldlaunched-by-samaritans-purse
Joy Russell
Recycling Just Got Easier! There are significant changes being introduced to the Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council Refuse & Recycling service from January 17th 2011 In response to your feedback we’re delighted to announce the following Improvements to recycling collection services from Monday 17 January 2011: • Cartons and batteries can be recycled; • Recycling containers will be reduced and improved; • Offering you a choice of recycling containers that meets your needs; and • Collect all recycling on one day in the same vehicle Please pay special attention to the new Refuse & Recycling Calendar 2011 that will be delivered through your letterbox very shortly. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Cllr Martin Cartwright – DSO Chairman HBBC If you require any further information telephone 0116 2874500 or Mobile 07850 707050.
Next issue out on 22nd January • Article/Advert Deadline: 8th January
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Anstey Housing Plan
Sports Captain at Lady Jane Grey
From page 1
Hello everyone, my name is Alec Barradell from Year 6 and I am the Sports Captain for 2010 – 11. I am looking forward to a great year of sports here at Lady Jane Grey. We are competing in more sports than ever this year including football, cricket, netball, crosscountry, basketball and hockey. So come and join a club, there is something for everyone. I wish all the school teams the best of luck. Watch this space for news
Alec Barradell
LETTER
There is a simple, single word solution to Joe Hubbard’s broadband woes - Virgin. Our £20 per month Virgin broadband package can give up to 20 MB. I have just run a broadband speed test (in November) and it registered 12 MB, enough said.
Peter Cooke When I’m not in a relationship, I shave one leg so it feels like I’m sleeping with a woman.
A46/A50 roundabout. This could be the preferred route if they were travelling to County Hall or towards Leicester or the M1 and wished to avoid the peak hour congestion at the Nook in Anstey. The exhibition in Anstey attracted many residents, with traffic being one of the major concerns. “I share some of the concerns expressed so far by residents,” said David Snartt, County Councillor for Anstey. “I will be interested to see more detail, especially around the big concern of the extra traffic which will be generated by the proposal, which in my view will add significantly to the high vehicle movements that already exist within the village, especially at peak times.” Charnwood Borough Councillor John Sutherington stayed for the whole of the exhibition and reported that the extra traffic was one of the key concerns. Concern was expressed about the Bradgate Road exit and the alternative route to the A50. A spokesperson for Leicestershire County Council said “ the County Council has had discussions with the developer about the issues they need to address in a traffic assessment which they will need to submit to alongside their planning application. This has been the limit of our involvement so far.” The exhibition boards produced by Pegasus Planning Group for the developer can be viewed online at www.pegasus.co.uk/anstey or follow the link from www.grobyonline.tk. The company has indicated that it intends to make a planning application shortly.
Norman Griffiths
Glenfield Millennium Green News
History on your doorstep
Anglo Saxons and the East Midlands Starting Thursday 20 January 2011 Groby Village Hall, Leicester Road 10 to 11.30 am, 10 meetings
Come and join us to sing Carols on the Green on Saturday December 18th at 6.30pm. This has become very popular and a good way to get into the spirit of Christmas. There will be warm, mulled punch and seasonal nibbles (including mince pies) after the singing. Wrap up warmly and bring torches or lanterns to help read the carol sheets. The hundred club draw will take place and a collection for a local charity. May we take this opportunity to wish all supporters of the Millennium Green a Happy Christmas and Best Wishes for the New Year. (Don’t forget to save used postage stamps for us)
To enrol or for further information phone 01509 268 636 Email: srogers@wea.org.uk
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Contact Mike or Susan on 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. Composed and published in the Parish of Groby & Field Head. Printed in Ellistown by Norwood Press. The Spotlight is a monthly compilation of articles, press releases, events, general items of interest and news items submitted to us by local residents, groups, associations, sports clubs and local authorities. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Spotlight Production Team. The inclusion of any group or organisation in this publication does not necessarily imply a recommendation of its aims, methods or policies. Groby & Field Head Spotlight cannot be held responsible for the information disclosed by advertisements, all of which are accepted in good faith. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission. Groby & Field Head Spotlight reserves the right to amend, shorten or refuse to publish articles and/or advertisements submitted for publication. All contents © Groby & Field Head Spotlight. None of the articles contained in this magazine are to be reproduced in any way without first obtaining written consent from Groby & Field Head Spotlight.
Local Student Receives £3,000 Grant From Friendly Insurer Specialist healthcare insurer National Friendly is continuing its investment in young people by supporting local French and German student, Emma Jane Scatterty. Emma, 18, from Groby, is currently studying French and German at the University of Warwick after obtaining impressive A-level results from Groby Community College. As part of National Friendly’s Further Education and Training Award scheme, Emma has been granted £1,000 each year for three years, to help her pay her tuition fees and any necessary equipment needed. The Further Education and Training Award scheme was set up by the healthcare provider in 1998. Each year the organisation invites its young members to apply for financial support for up to three years of further education. To apply for the grant, candidates are required to submit an essay, which is then judged by staff at National Friendly, against set criteria, and three are chosen to receive a grant. Emma’s essay was chosen above other entries, as her work was felt to have been extremely well researched and exceptionally written. These qualities, along with the originality she demonstrated, made her essay really stand out. For more information about National Friendly please visit www. nationalfriendly.co.uk or call 0800 195 9246
Pre-school raises charity cash For Children in Need 2010 the children at Kidaroo pre-school in Groby took part in a colouring-in competition, with a 10p entrance fee. They also decorated cakes for a cake sale, which were sold at a very reasonable 10p each. They looked great! We all had a great day and it was lovely to see how many of the children took part, putting in lots of hard work with their colouring. Through these two activities they raised £16, to go to the Children in need charity. Well done to everyone who took part and a big thank you to everyone who brought cakes.
The new Chinese Diet: You can eat whatever you want, but you’re only allowed one chopstick.
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Two monologues do not make a dialogue.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Lots of Autumn activities at Groby Scouts September marks the start of the Scouting year at Groby. Children usually move from Beavers to Cubs, Cubs to Scouts and Scouts to Explorers just after the school holidays. Those who have recently left the Explorer Unit often go off to university, taking the life skills they have learnt through Scouting with them. In October the Scouts competed in the Dave Smart Challenge against other teams from Leicester North East Scout District. Starting at the Outwoods, the Scouts, in teams of 4, had to navigate to various checkpoints dotted around the area where they had to complete a variety of challenges. The first checkpoint was an abseil down a 6 metre high cliff. The scouts then had to walk to their next checkpoint where they had to send a message using semaphore. The following checkpoints involved dealing with a first aid incident and lighting a fire to boil a pan of water. The final leg of the journey was by canoe to Quorn Hall where the Scouts camped overnight before the presentations the following morning. The two teams from Groby
finished a very respectable 4th and 8th out of 14 teams. At the end of the month all 4 sections held Halloween parties. The Beaver colony and Cub pack held a joint party. The Scout troop and Explorer Unit parties involved the traditional, often messy games, such as apple bobbing. November kicked off with the Cub Pack entering 2 teams in the Leicester North East District 5 a side football competition in an attempt to retain the trophy the Cub Pack won last year. Competing against 10 other teams in a knockout competition both teams made the semi finals where one team was knocked out. The other team progressed to the final which they unfortunately lost 3-2. The following weekend about 80 people enjoyed our Family Film Quiz held at the Scout Headquarters. Just over £200 was taken on the night and a good evening was had by all. The morning after the film quiz the Explorer Scouts together with the 2nd Groby Guides provided the colour party at the Churches Together in Groby Remembrance service.
Also in November, the Scouts completed the requirements of the Pioneer Activity badge. Pioneering involves using knots and lashings to tie wooden spars (poles) together to construct often complicated structures. The badge culminated in a sleep over on a giant hanging platform the Scouts
had built and hung from the ceiling in the Scout Headquarters.
Online shopping Are you planning to shop online for those last minute Christmas presents? If so then why not visit your favourite retailers via our website at: www.grobyscouts.org.uk Follow the link to our online shopping page where you will find over 100 retailers who are helping us with our fundraising. Popular online retailers such as Amazon, Play.com. Thorntons and Zavvi are all on the site. If you’ve finished your Christmas shopping then why not use our site to book your next holiday from retailers such as Expedia or Laterooms.com. You pay exactly the same price as you would if you went directly to a site, they give us a small amount of commission just for visiting via our site.
Keep Warm, Keep Well With record subzero temperatures forecast for this winter Age Concern Leicester Shire and Rutland urges all older people to take the necessary precautions in order to stay healthy and well. Things to bear in mind: • • •
Stay indoors if you can Wear several thin layers of clothing rather than one thick layer. Wear appropriate headwear – the main source of heat loss is through the head. • Food is fuel and helps keep you warm. Aim to have at least one hot meal a day. Have hot drinks regularly throughout the day, particularly before bed. • Moving around generates extra body heat, so any kind of activity will help keep you warm. Try not to stay sitting still for long periods. Spread those through the day to alternate between rest and activity. • Try to keep a temperature of 21oC (70oF) in all rooms during the day. If this is not possible, at least keep the living room warm and warm the bedroom and bed before going to bed. Keep the bedroom window closed at night. • Set central heating to come on before you get up and off when you go to bed. • Ensure your home is properly insulated. For further advice please contact Age Concern Leicester Shire and Rutland on 0116 2992233.
Never go to a doctor whose plants have died.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
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I used to be a banker, but I lost interest.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Nominations invited for your sporting heroes RESIDENTS are being invited to submit nominations for the borough’s annual sports awards scheme. The scheme, run by the Hinckley and Bosworth Local Sporting Alliance and supported by Cannon Sports, honours not only the achievements of individuals and teams but also the contribution made by the volunteers who help to run many of the clubs. Now in its fourth year, the scheme has not only established itself as a fixture in the local sporting calendar, but is going from strength to strength with nominations growing every year. As well as awards for the veteran sportsman and sportswoman of the year, the scheme also honours the person judged to be making a major difference to sporting life in the borough. There will also be an Active Lifestyle Award and a Health Referral Award. Sue Houghton, Chair of Hinckley and Bosworth Local Sporting Alliance, said: “I know that within Hinckley and Bosworth we have a great depth of talent from the volunteers, who give of their time and expertise so freely, to the talent performers who are members of our clubs. As a Sporting Alliance we want to celebrate, acknowledge and support the great talent we have in the borough.” Volunteer awards will be presented in the following categories: Young Volunteer of the Year (U18), Adult Volunteer of the Year, Unsung Hero, Lifetime Achievement, and Making a Difference. Sports awards will go to: Sportsman of the Year, Sportswoman of the Year, Disabled Sportsman of the Year. Disabled Sports-woman, Club of the Year, Junior Sportsman of the Year (U16), Junior Sportswoman of the Year (U16), Junior Disabled Sportsman of the Year (U16), Junior Disabled Sportswoman of the Year (U16), Veteran Sportsman of the Year, Veteran Sportswomen of the Year, Active Lifestyle Award and Health Referral Award. Voting forms are available from the Borough Council’s website at www.hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk or by phoning 01455 255678. Forms have also been distributed to sports clubs throughout the borough. Voting closes at 4pm on Friday 7 January 2011.
National Trust Leicester Association NEWS Traditionally the British countryside has been owned by the Church, the Royal Family and a host of Earls and Dukes (the aristocracy). However the latest research published in last month’s Country Life magazine shows a massive change. After the Forestry Commission with 2.6 million acres the National Trust has the second largest landholding with 630,000 acres with the Ministry of Defence (590,000 acres) in third place. The top “aristocrat” is the Duke of Buccleuch with 240,000 acres. About 60% of National Trust land is farmland with just over 700 tenant farmers and the Trust owns 25% of all the land in the Lake District National Park and 13% of the land in the Peak District. All this land is protected by the Trust for the benefit of future generations. The Parkland at Calke Abbey is open every day of the year for a country stroll or a longer walk and the Restaurant is also open every day (except 25 & 26 Dec. and 1 Jan) to refresh you after your breath of fresh air. This is a great chance to get out into the countryside over the Christmas period. The National Trust Leicester Association has an evening meeting on Tuesday 14th December when Russell Ashfield, NT Estate Manager, will present an illustrated talk on the NT Ilam Park & South Peak Estates. The January evening meeting is on Tuesday 11th and Dr Wendy Freer will present an illustrated talk on the Life of a Victorian Servant. Both meetings are at the Premier Inn, Braunstone Lane East, Leicester at 7.30pm and admission is NT Leicester Association members £2 and visitors £4. For further information on the NT Leicester Association and its Talks Service for other organisations please call 0116 2229133.
Alan Tyler Chairman, NT Leicester Association The next seminar on time travel will be held two weeks last Friday.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Get sound advice from Leicester Money Advice
Leicester Money Advice and Community Law Service is an independent advice agency which is also a registered charity.
Our history dates back some 30 years when we began delivering debt advice services across Leicester and Leicestershire. We have invariably seen many changes over the years, but it is clear that the need for the services we provide has not been diminished over time, and is likely to be in more demand as a result of the problems facing our communities at a time of recession and cuts in public spending which will affect jobs and incomes. Originally, our work was completely focussed on the provision of debt advice, which still remains the largest area of our work. However, a few years ago we recognised that we needed to expand the areas specialist advise that we offered in order to move towards providing an improved service to the people of Leicester and Leicestershire and over the past few years have secured contracts to deliver work in other areas of social welfare law at specialist level including welfare benefits, housing, employment,
discrimination and family, employing three solicitors and other specialist advice staff. This expansion resulted in the addition of ‘Community Law Service’ as an operational name for part of our service. We deliver services from a range of venues across the city and county as well as from our city centre offices. We have an office in Leicester County Court where our advisers are able to assist people with debt and housing related Court hearings including mortgage and rent arrears. David, a recently widowed single father approached our court office by when he was due to attend a hearing regarding possession of his home due to mortgage arrears. Our adviser quickly determined that during his wife’s short and severe illness, he had failed to claim benefits to which he was entitled. The first job was to seek an adjournment of the hearing to allow some time to sort out the financial problems David was facing. Having assisted him in claiming relevant benefits the possession of his home was suspended. He was also facing a committal hearing for council tax arrears of £2,000, which the court wrote off in full as they accepted that whilst David had failed to claim benefit he would have
been eligible for this assistance, but could not determine how much as other benefits had not been claimed either and these may have affected the calculation. Having secured the family’s home and David’s liberty, he is still working with the adviser in dealing with his other debts. We are also very proud of our partnerships with other organisations and work with Radio Leicester where the Debt Doctor, our very own Adam Markillie, explains various aspects of dealing with debt. These features on morning radio, along with the two Money Fairs that have been organised by Radio Leicester have resulted in more than 800 people making contact to seek advice. We also link with De Montfort University to provide placements for students undertaking the Legal Practice Certificate course, where they can have hands on experience of providing services and we benefit from their time which is a great support to our solicitors, advisers and admin team. We work with many different communities and groups in the delivery of our work, and currently deliver debt and financial capability sessions in Peterborough, Ashwell and Stocken prisons; work with people with mental health
Make a difference in the world today: Subtract.
Heather Montgomery and Adam Markillie problems in collaboration with Community Mental Health Teams; deliver services via Sure Start centres to families; and are an integral partner agency with the Just Women Project which assists and supports women who have exhibited offending behaviour to stay out of the criminal justice system. If you need advice you can contact us on 0116 242 1122, Monday to Friday between 900am and 1-00pm and 2-00pm to 4-30pm, when we will assess if we are able to assist you.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Small Ads FOR SALE SHOES Ladies, gold camper pump size 8, never worn. Price: £15, BABY RING ‘Sit Me Up’ cosy, soft, inflatable. Price: £7, BABASLING with box, never used. Price: £20 (£40 in shops), STRAIGHTENERS ‘Wet to Straight’, barely used. Price: £15. T: 0796 257 8497 (Groby) DOORS Kitchen cupboard, glazed, 2 pair with fittings 28cmx71cm. Price: £25. T: 0116 2235720. JEWELLERY CASE Cream leather 150mmHx230mmWx175mmD, still in box. (Duplicated gift). Price: £16. T: 01530 243 773 (Groby) VINYL RECORDS 40’s & 50’s. All Proceeds to Charity. T: 0116 287 5654. FREEZER Coolzone table-top, hardly used. Price: £100 o.n.o. T: 0116 287 7292. ROWING MACHINE adjustable tension, no stroke counter. Price: £10, MUSIC STAND professional, chrome finish, carry case. Price: £10, CLARINET MUSIC Grades 1-4, 17 books, some with play-along CD’s. List on request. Price: £10. T: 0116 2313 654 (Groby).
Advertise your items for sale FREE. Send us the details, cost of item and your contact phone number for the display box, together with your home address for our purposes only (not for publication). Max FOUR items, please. Max price asked: £300.
See page 3 for Spotlight contact details.
Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Club Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287-1809 www.grobyclub.co.uk NOTICE TO MEMBERS New Members Welcome Sat 11 Dec: NIGHTSHIFT Sun 12 Dec: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 17 Dec: ALIVE&KICKING Sat 18 Dec: COLIN KACEY Sun 19 Dec: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 24 Dec: SIMON HENDLEY (ELVIS TRIBUTE) Sun 26 Dec: COLIN KACEY Fri 31 Dec: MICHAEL JAY Sun 2 Jan: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 7 Jan: KELLIE JENS Sat 8 Jan: VINNIE DEANE Sun 9 Jan: Super Sunday ‘50’ Fri 14 Jan: JAMIE NEALE Sat 15 Jan: G. STRING Sat 15 Jan: Kids PANTOMIME (’Jack & The Beanstalk’) Sun 16 Jan: Super Sunday ‘50’
(See Advert on P.24)
The Nag’s Head Station Road, Glenfield T: 0116 287 2794
Every THURS – QUIZ General Knowledge ~ Free to Enter. Win Beer. • SKY SPORTS
(See Advert on P.8) The Stamford Arms Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287 5616.
Sun 12 Dec: MOJO HAND 3-6pm Sat 18 Dec: AINT MIS-BEHAVIN Sun 19 Dec: TIME-OUT 3-6pm Fri 24 Dec: £3 a Ticket (Xmas Eve) Pre-Buy – Proceeds to Charity Sun 26 Dec: ACEMEN 3-6pm 12-3pm HANGOVER Breakfast Served 12-3pm.(‘Trad. English’) Fri 31 Dec: (New Year’s Eve) STONEPARK - £5 a Ticket -You Must Pre-Buy. Sun 16 Jan: Aint Mis-Behavin 3-6pm KARAOKE ~ Every Wed OPEN MIC ~Every Thurs QUIZ – General Knowledge + Find the Joker ~ EVERY Sun QUIZ – Music ~ EVERY Tues
What’s On At Our Local Pubs & ClubSs The Field Head Hotel Markfield Lane, Markfield Tel: 01530 245454 Tributes/Entertainment Sat 11 Dec: MOTOWN Wed 15 Dec: DISCO Party Fri 17 Dec: BON JOVI Sat 18 Dec: ABBA Wed 22 Dec: JULIA’S Party Fri 24 Dec: DISCO Party Quiz Nite: Every 2nd Tues
Old Thatched Inn Stanton - under - Bardon T:01530 242 460
FUN Christmas QUIZ Wed 22 Dec: £50 Cash Prize 8.30pm.Start 50p per Entry. Every WED: - QUIZ Night & ‘PLAY YOUR CARDS RIGHT’ 8.30pm.Cash prizes 50p per Entry. Pool Table.
The Coach & Horses Leicester Road, Field Head Tel: 01530 242 312 KARAOKE Nights:Sat 11 Dec & Boxing Night (’King of the Road’) SPECIAL QUIZ Nite:Sun 19 Dec: LOROS Charity QUIZ & RAFFLE 9pm Start. Sundays: QUIZ Night
Poetry events
Staff at a college are organising a host of poetry events. The sessions at Winstanley College, in Braunstone, will run in association with neighbouring schools – Brookvale, Groby, South Charnwood, Market Bosworth and Bosworth College. For further details about the events visit: www.winstanley.leics.sch.uk
The days of the digital watch are numbered.
Sing Christmas with BBC Radio Leicester SING CHRISTMAS with BBC Radio Leicester - be part of the largest carol service where you are. This Christmas community centres, pubs, residential homes, hospitals and prisons have the opportunity to be part of what could be the largest carol service ever in Leicestershire and Rutland. Tune in to a special SING CHRISTMAS community carol service, broadcast live by BBC Radio Leicester from the Everards pub - The Bull’s Head, Cosby (not Fosse Park Food Court) on Thursday 21 December 2006 at 7pm. So would you like to help create the largest ever carol service in Leicestershire and Rutland? Download the full details of the Carol service from the BBC Radio Leicester website to photocopy or print for your venue, or to join in at home! Churches are also invited to help stage the service in a community venue in their area. Everyone will be able to celebrate the real meaning of Christmas by going along to one of the simultaneous local carol services hosted by community venues – all linked together by the live broadcast from The Bull’s Head, Cosby. Lots of venues have registered for Sing Christmas so far including Markfield Court Nursing Home, Ratby Lane, Markfield and Mayflower Court, Mayflower Close, Markfield.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Sykes Jewellers 8 Bradgate Road, Anstey, Leicester Tel: 0116 236 2510 www.sykesjewellers.co.uk
If you keep your feet firmly on the ground, you’ll have trouble putting on your underpants.
10
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
LETTER Following Ratby Village Society Anti-Litter Group’s successful Art Exhibition and Craft Fair on Sunday 7th November, our guest art critic, Mark Wilde, sent in the following review which we thought might be of interest to readers: Artists and Craftspeople from the area made an impressive showing at the Fourth Annual Art Exhibition and Craft Fair held on 7th November at the Church Rooms in Ratby, organised by the Ratby Village Society Anti-Litter Group. A very good attendance made for an exciting afternoon, with many stalls bursting with high quality, hand made gifts. Also on display were paintings, drawings, and needlepoint by local artists as well as some 3D work by craftswomen Maggie Brooks and Shirley Blyth. I especially enjoyed the use of light in “The Artists Daughter” by Peter Griffin, a very accomplished oil painter. A well observed pencil sketch by Ken Hunnybun, “A Venice Backwater” also caught my eye. Watercolourists were also well represented. Julia Kent’s “Autumn Country Lane” featured a superb use of the medium to portray the bright warm colours of the season, and Don Fell’s peaceful lake scene, “A Still Day” included gentle, cool colours to create atmosphere and a sense of distance. Janet Mayo’s “Embleton Beach” had a lovely evening light, while Paul Rogers’ “Grip of Winter” created a cold, quiet, winter feeling.” Other work worth mentioning were Chris Talbot’s “The Old Ash Tree” with its strong light, a dramatic “Houses of Parliament” by Cynthia Hunt, some very good reflections in two pictures by S.K. Mason, pastels by Jean Vann, and some very clean, colourful watercolours by Sid Jordan. The exhibition showed a good selection of styles and subject matter and everything was well presented and professional looking. Everyone involved should be proud of a very impressive show - Mark Wilde, Artist
Jane Rayne, Ratby Village Society
Bradgate Flower Club
‘Christmas Magic’ overcomes unexpected motoring mishap As flower arrangers gathered at Groby Community College on 3rd November, few realised that the guest arranger had been stranded further up the M1. David Fawcett-Ropner, from Lancashire, had set out in good time with a trailer full of display material for the Open Evening. When a trailer tyre burst part way through the afternoon, he discovered how difficult it was to locate a replacement wheel! He also lost valuable preparation time normally needed at the venue. Members of Bradgate Flower Club, which hosted the evening, assisted with unloading and the David Fawcett-Ropner with finale programme was able to start with demonstration display: only a short delay. David promised a range of floral arrangements around the ‘Christmas Magic’ theme, from traditional to contemporary, some with controversial elements. His job at the Barton Garden Centre, which has successive awards for its Christmas displays, made David the perfect guest arranger for this winter evening. The College theatre provided an ideal venue for over one hundred members and visitors to enjoy his skill, inventiveness and humour as each of the six large-scale arrangements took shape. David Fawcett-Ropner enlivened the evening with a running commentary on the flowers, foliage and display material he used, interspersed with anecdotes about his work, wardobe and experiences as a popular national arranger. He even made light of the fraught journey that day with the final arrangements showing no sign that his motoring mishap had diminished his personal brand of ‘Christmas Magic’! Forthcoming Event On Wednesday 15th December at 7.00pm, Bradgate Flower Club is holding a flower arrangers’ workshop at Copt Oak Memorial Hall. In preparation for Christmas, this one introduces basic techniques for making festive wreaths and door hangings. Further details can be obtained from me - Geraldine Abbott - on 01530 415378.
The best way to keep death off the roads is to drive on the pavement.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Help garden birds to survive
Advice on feeding the birds ... from the RSPB The ROYAL SOCIETY FOR THE PROTECTION OF BIRDS (RSPB) are advising bird lovers as to what food they can leave out for birds and how to keep their feeding stations hygenic and pest free. Feeding garden birds is a popular activity which over half of adults in the UK enjoy. That’s a lot of help for the birds. Providing birds with supplementary food will bring them closer to you and reward them for sharing their lives with us. Feeding birds is also an ideal way to enthuse children about wildlife. Supplementary feeding can’t provide all the natural proteins and vitamins that adult and young birds need. So it is important to create and manage your garden to provide a source of natural foods as well with lawns, shrubs and flower beds. If you provide both natural and supplementary food, your garden will be visited year round by a host of different birds. It is important to feed your birds responsibly and safely by following a few simple guidelines. You can play a valuable role in helping your local birds overcome periods of natural food shortage, survive periods of severe Winter weather and come into good breeding condition in the Spring. Although Winter feeding benefits birds most, food shortages can occur at any time of the year. By feeding year round, you’ll give birds a better chance to survive. When a large number of birds are attracted into an area to feed the danger of disease increases, so make sure that your bird table and feeders are cleaned regularly. There are bird safe cleaning liquids available but if you are not sure contact the RSPB for advice.
The RSPB has free monthly e-newsletter which over 200,000 people currently enjoy . Why not sign up? Go to www.rspb.org.uk/plus/
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Real women don’t have hot flushes - they have power surges.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Conservation Area consultation extended to 21st December Norman Griffiths looks at the Conservation Area Appraisal
Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council is carrying out a consultation exercise about the Groby Conservation Area.
of the village which are closely associated with the village’s past. For the purposes of the appraisal it has been subdivided according to areas of different character, and considers each with regard to buildings of townscape merit, distinctive details, features of interest, green spaces and vegetation.
It was launched with a one day exhibition at the Village Hall on November 29th and is being followed by a smaller exhibition for two weeks at Groby library. So if you missed the exhibition you can still read the documents and see the supporting photographs in the library. Comment forms will be available and the original closing date for the submission of comments has been extended by seven days to the 21st December. If you can’t get to the library in time you can see everything on the Borough Council website, including many photgraphs of Groby properties with observations regarding their importance to the Conservation Area. There’s a direct link to the page from www. grobyonline.tk. After the Village Hall exhibition Barry Whirrity, the Conservation Officer at the Borough Council, said that about 60 people attended including the Borough and some Parish Councillors. “The appraisal documents were well supported by everyone who attended and the Borough Council welcomes the support and interest shown by residents in protecting the quality of the designated area,” said Barry. “Groby has some fine heritage buildings and many important historic features which add a great deal to the character of the conservation area.” The old centre of the village was designated a Conservation Area 34 years ago to protect those parts
The appraisal The appraisal includes a a quick look at the history and development of the village and considers what is good or not so good about the Markfield Road, Ratby Road, Chapel Hill and Leicester Road sub-areas. It concludes that the conservation area is typical of 18th century rural Leicestershire settlements with the dominant use of stone, and that the small scale streets, stone cottages and stone walls together with the views in and out of the conservation area to the countryside, form a distinctive village form. The predominance of the stone cottages and the prominent position of the church and tower all highlight the rural character of the area, with the retention of the granite walls creating a sense of enclosure and highlighting the settlements rural origins. The leafy character enhances the rural qualities of the local architecture and the large scale mature trees are an important element which reflect the history of Groby as a distinct village settlement within the Leicestershire countryside. This rural character is enhanced by the views between the church, the castle mound and the surrounding buildings.
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Vulnerabilities and opportunities for enhancement Attention is drawn to the vulnerability of the Conservation Area, highlighting the deterioration or loss of stone boundary walls, and insensitive alterations to historic buildings and to building elevations that face the street. Traffic, new development that does not reflect the established street pattern, and the loss of trees and key spaces between buildings, are also mentioned. Opportunities for enhancing the area are also outlined and include a recommendation that a system to control or manage parking should be investigated, a contentious subject for local residents.
Proposed management plan Those who live in the Conservation Area or who businesses there will be particularly interested in the proposed management plan for the area. Seven key measures are proposed together with an outline of the action that will be required by the Council.
New development and alterations should respect the character of the area with regard to materials, scale, siting and design, with plastic windows, doors and fascias being discouraged. Highway works should not have a detrimental impact on the area. Existing boundary features such as walls, fences, hedges and railings should be retained where they have merit as should important groups of trees and open areas. Utilities should be encouraged to replace overhead cables and poles with underground schemes. The use of inappropriate roofing materials should be discouraged and financial help given where possible to owners to restore traditional materials and features. Modern shop fronts should be discouraged along with the use of solid grid shutters. New rendering should only be used when completely necessary and properties in the same terrace should be painted the same colour to maintain unity. If comments you make are considered appropriate they will be included in the consultation statement to be adopted by the Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council early in 2011.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Groby Gardening Society News Botanic Gardens
November 11th saw the visit of Dr Gornall from the Botanic Garden of Leicester University. Many readers will be well acquainted with this beautiful garden in Glebe road in Oadby. This Botanic Garden spans 16 acres of lovingly cultivated grounds and greenhouses, displaying a wide variety of environments, including alpine, tropical, temperate and cactus houses. Outdoors, there are rock gardens, a herb garden, a water garden and an arboretum. Included are the national collections of hardy fuchsia, skimmia, Lawson’s cypress and aubrieta. There are formal planting centres around a restored Edwardian garden. The plant collections and landscape features make this garden one of the most diverse in the region. The water features are particularly pleasing and add character to the setting. Variety is the key to this garden’s strength. The grounds of 4 houses that are now used for student accommodation were merged to form the garden. Although the writer was not present at Dr Gornall’s presentation, esteemed members have commented on the wonderful quality of his work. Presented in a pleasantly, professional manner, Dr Gornall kept all interested in his portrayal of such gardens through history. Some of the work done there at present includes the study of aspects of genetic engineering and the speaker was able to present a quite balanced view of this controversial subject.
A brief reflection As the year draws to its close, it is perhaps a good time
to look back at some highlights. Many members will remember with delight the wonderful visit to our local garden. Maybe a poor night weather-wise, but this did nothing to dampen the awe and wonder that members felt about this garden. In contrast, we had a scorching day at The Hampton Court Flower Show, followed by the visit to spectacular Waddesdon Manor. Our visit to The Malvern Spring Show was deemed a success and then we had our Fish and Chip supper in September. Our programme of speakers more than lived up to expectations, as did our Spring Plant Sale and Annual Village Show.
Looking ahead Some dates for the diary:• The Spring Plant Sale: May 14th at the Village Hall • Evening visit to Hebb’s Farm: June 9th • Overnight stay: July 22nd and 23rd visiting Liverpool and Ness gardens (staying overnight at the Crowne Plaza in Chester) • Shrewsbury Flower Show: August 12th • Annual Village Show: August 20th The usual signing-up sheets for our trips will be available from the A.G.M. onwards, but if anyone wishes to reserve places before this, a phone call to Alvar will suffice.
Forthcoming events January 13th “The Annual General Meeting” February 10th “Bees and the Gardener” 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
Charity Christmas Quiz & Raffle at the Coach & Horses There will be a Christmas Quiz & Raffle at the Coach & Horses, Leicester Road, Field Head, Near Markfield on 19th December at 9pm. The event is in aid of LOROS, and donations of prizes for the raffle would be very gratefully received.
Blood donor session
There will be a blood donor session at Markfield Community Centre, Mayflower Close, Markfield on Wednesday 19th January 2011 (1pm-3.30pm & 5pm-8pm).
The average wife talks 50% more than her husband listens.
Burns Night Dinner in support of Hospice Hope A ‘Burns Night’ Dinner is being held in aid of Hospice Hope at 8pm on Friday 21st January 2011, at the Lyric Rooms, Ashby de la Zouch. There will be a 3 course traditional Scottish meal followed by coffee, as well as bagpipes and Scottish entertainment. Vegetarian option available. Reservations can be made for tables of 10 people. For tickets (£22) and further details, please contact Teresa Jones on 01530 810018, or email info@hospicehope.org.uk
Tellytalk
Four in a Bed FOUR IN A BED (Channel 4 at 5.30pm weekdays) looks like becoming as addictive as Come Dine With Me. The programme features four B&B-running couples who compete to see who provides best value for money. Every night for four nights, each couple plays host to the other three, and their b&b is rated by means of an anonymous questionnaire, and by the couples paying what they think their stay was worth. Being in competition brings out the worst in some of the participants, which makes for very entertaining viewing. In the final programme of the week, the scoring is revealed and the winner announced.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Change to council house lettings system
A CHANGE will soon be made to the way that council housing properties are let.
Together with the six other Leicestershire district councils, Hinckley & Bosworth has developed a simpler, more transparent way of applying for homes. Many of the housing associations who also have properties in the county will be advertising their vacant properties through the same scheme. At present a points system is used for assessing an applicant’s priority for housing. Under the new system, each applicant will be placed into one of four housing needs bands - low, medium, high and priority. Every fortnight, vacant properties will be advertised on a website, in a newsletter and in the council offices. People on the housing register will be able to view these properties and register their details against any property they are interested in where they meet the property criteria. An offer will be made to the person in the highest housing need band with the earliest registration date. As part of the change to the new system, the council has asked everyone who is currently on the council housing register to complete a new housing registration form if they are still interested in council housing. Those who are currently on the housing register and have not received a form or are having difficulties completing it, should contact the council’s Housing Allocations Team, who will be happy to assist with any queries. The new scheme will begin in the new year.
Apply on time for school places Parents of children due to start school for the first time are being urged to apply for places before the closing date. Applications for infant or primary school places must be made by 15th January, 2011 for children who will be four years old before 1st September, 2011. All parents need to apply – even for their child to attend their catchment area school. Late applicants may not be offered a place at any of their preferred schools, or even their catchment area school, so parents are being urged to make sure they don’t miss the closing date. To apply for a place, please visit: www.leics.gov.uk/admissions , contact Leicestershire County Council’s Admissions team for a form or pick up from your local school. Ivan Ould, Leicestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for the Children and Young People’s Service, said: “It is very important that all parents apply on time to give their children the best possible chance of being offered a place in their preferred school. If parents are late and there are a lot of requests, even if they live next door to the school, they are unlikely to get a place for their child.” For a form or more information, please contact School Admissions at Leicestershire County Council on 0116 305 6684 or email: admissions@leics.gov.uk
The advantage of being a pessimist is that all your surprises are pleasant.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
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The parking proposals map we cannot print ... Norman Griffiths reports on the County Council consultation All day on-street parking in Groby has been an issue in the village for years and has continued to be a problem despite the efforts made to resolve it.
•
Eventually the conclusion was reached that further parking restrictions would be necessary and the Annual Parish Meeting was told in May 2009 that the Parish Council would work towards this objective with Leicestershire County Council(LCC). Earlier this year proposals were put forward for comment by the Parish Council but the County Council did not release them to the public at that stage. Following further discussion the LCC has now written to householders and businesses directly affected by changes to parking restrictions outside their premises. They have one month to comment on the proposals. The details of the proposed changes are displayed in a very clear format on a copyright Ordnance Survey map of the village. A spokesman for the County Council explained that this is just the first stage of a lengthy process. It is an additional informal consultation and is targeted primarily at those who will be most directly affected by the changes. When their comments have been considered and any changes made the proposal will be referred back to the Parish and County Councillors for Groby. If it is decided to proceed with a new scheme this will be consulted on again before a final decision is taken to advertise in the press and with notices, followed by 21 days in which to object or comment. However anyone who feels they have a constructive comment to make directly related to the specific proposals at this early stage is free to do so. The proposals are of interest to the wider community but the Spotlight is not allowed to print the copyright OS map and show you what is being suggested as it cannot be reproduced and no further copies can be made. It can, however, be seen at the Parish Council office. The information which follows has not been drafted by the County Council and is an interpretation of the map. It has been checked but nevertheless if you have concerns and wish to comment you are recommended to look at the map first. The proposals can be broken down into three elements -
•
• • •
New ‘No waiting at any time’ restrictions. New ‘Weekday no waiting 8.00 to 17.00’ restrictions. New ‘Monday to Saturday daytime 2 hour’ waiting limit.
Any time restrictions • •
All four corners of the Ratby Road, Chapel Hill, Fir Tree Lane junction. Left hand side of Ratby Road from Chapel Hill to the pedestrian crossing access opposite Stephenson Way.
• •
•
Both corners of the Ratby Road/Rookery Lane Junction. on the side next to Santander this will extend past their car park and the electricity substation. From 20 Rookery Lane to the surgery and on the opposite side round into the Rookery making all this side of Rookery no waiting. The Rookery Lane intersection with Pymm Ley Lane on both sides up to Leicester Road. From the Stamford Arms car park to the bus stop on Leicester Road and on the corner around the Bradgate Stores. A short length on the opposite side near the entrance to the Old Hall. Chapel Hill both sides near the thatched cottages/Stockingers Cottage.
New weekday no waiting • •
Right side of Markfield Road alongside the Old Hall and church. Left side of Chapel Hill from Crane Ley Road to the thatched cottages.
Monday to Saturday 2 hour waiting • • • • • •
Most of the left hand side of Fir Tree Lane from Ratby Road towards GESensing (Druck). Left hand side of Ratby Road from Barclays to Leicester Road. Left hand side of Markfield Road from Ratby Road to 15 Markfield Road. Right hand side of Markfield Road from near Old Hall to opposite number 19. In front of 23 Ratby Road(house) and Flint(shop) Left hand side of Rookery Lane from Ratby Road towards Blacksmith’s Cottage.
Whilst generally welcoming the proposals some residents are concerned that there will be parking restrictions outside their homes which mean once inward commuters have taken the available spaces there will be no parking for their visitors. There are also concerns that displaced commuters will simply park further into the residential area, as has happened in other areas where restrictions have been introduced, and that in some places double sided parking will still lead to dangerous bottlenecks. The view was expressed at the September meeting of the Parish Council that the new restrictions were inadequate and would only move the parking problem from one street to another. Members were told in November that it would take a long time to achieve anything more comprehensive. If you would like further information about this review of traffic regulation orders you can telephone Miss J Parle at the County Council on 0116 3050001.
Markfield Seminar
‘Channelling’ Wed 29th Dec 11am – 5pm Speakers:
John Shackleton &
Susan Lapsley Cost: £5 (No need to book) Venue: The Charnwood Room The Fieldhead Hotel Markfield. LE67 9PS. www.leicesterlectures.co.uk
Nothing’s impossible for those who don’t have to do it.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Hot off the press …. and fresh from the oven!
Café Re-Launch at Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary At Redgate we are excited to announce that we have re-opened our Café with a brother and sister team of cooks: Ashley Stevenson and Debbie Noon at the helm.
They have worked on a great new menu for you to try out THE TEAM: (l-r) Debbie (chef), Ashley (chef) and are currently and Hayley (yard manager). planning a real ‘Ramsay-style’ make over so keep visiting us to watch our progress! Redgate Cafe offers everyone a warm welcome and we believe it’s the perfect place to warm up on a cold day with a hot mug of chocolate and slice of homemade cake. We are proud to be a dog friendly cafe so bring your well behaved dog too! We believe our new menu has something for everyone including an all day breakfast, vegetarian options, a selection of desserts, a new children’s menu as well as the good old favourites such as sizzling hot fish and chips. Why not try out our delicious weekly specials with a range of traditional homemade meals such as Cottage Pie with buttery parsnip and cheddar mash. You will always be sure of a warm welcome. Opening hours are Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10.30am - 3.30pm and we are hoping to extend these to 7 days a week soon so watch this space. Keep an eye on our website: www.redgatefarmanimalsanctuary.co.uk Or come and visit us – we only close on Christmas Day! We are located on the side of the A511 at Shaw Lane (on the edge of Stanton under Bardon), half way between Markfield and Ellistown. The yard is now open for parking – simply pull in at the end of Shaw Lane, open the gate, pull in and park (and please don’t forget to shut the gate again!).
Exercise for all Lady Jane Grey Primary School has been given a grant to install a bike shed. Hopefully this will encourage some of the older children to ride to school. There is room for twenty bikes and if it rains the shelter has a roof to keep them dry.
A good scapegoat is nearly as welcome as a solution to the problem.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
On the perils of brides in churches The Rectory St. James the Least of All
My dear Nephew Darren
O
ur final wedding of the year was perhaps a little more memorable than any of us had anticipated. It was a charming scene, with everywhere covered in snow – although a good job the bride had a bouquet of red roses, otherwise no one would have been able to find her. As the photographer, bridesmaids and I stood at the lych gate, the bridal car arrived, braked – and carried on, sliding down the lane sideways and into the neighbouring farmyard. Fortunately, Mr Jones was there to use his tractor to pull it out of the mud. Our verger, having attended the diocesan verger’s guild Christmas party the night before, arrived late and did not have time to clear the church path. The path, being on an incline and bridal pumps not being equal to the task, the bride made a dramatic entrance into church backwards and on her bottom, demolishing the flower pedestal by the door in the process. Fortunately the petals stuck to the large patch of mud on her behind, making the congregation speculate throughout the service why she had a large floral cushion attached to her dress. Our organist did not please the bride’s mother by changing the wedding march to the skater’s waltz as her daughter reeled up the aisle. He is still under a cloud from last week’s funeral for our local butcher, when he played at the end of the service Bach’s: “Sheep may safely graze”. At St James the Least, the best man stands over a large heating grid. The poor soul, unaccustomed to our ecclesiastical arctic climate, was shivering so violently, he dropped the rings down the grid. There had to be a halfhour pause while the grating was removed and the groom, holding the best man’s legs, lowered him into the hole to fish for them, lost among choirmen’s peppermints and the organ tuner’s cigarette ends. In future, I have decided that wedding rehearsals should be full dress rehearsals. The bride, in a hooped dress, was 4 feet wide; the vestry door is 3 feet wide. Getting in to sign the registers was fairly easy, as the bride, a game girl, took a run up along the chancel and so built up enough momentum. Her exit was more difficult, but with the combined pushing of groom and bridesmaids, she re-emerged into church like a cork out of a bottle – and demolishing the second pedestal of flowers in the chancel. Married life, they say, is not always a bed of roses, but hers has certainly begun that way. Your loving uncle,
Eustace
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I locked my keys in the car the other day. But it was alright - I was still inside.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
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A Plumb Tree? Or is it a Copper Beech? This unusual exhibit was displayed at the recent Christmas Tree Festival at Groby Parish Church. The ‘Plumb Tree’ was entered by Manifest, the men’s group at the church.
Last week, the local candle factory burned down. Everyone just stood around and sang Happy Birthday.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
What’s New on DVD A Selection of New and Future Releases
The Hole (12)
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Lady Jane Grey perform well in Ratby Football Tournament
Starring Chris Massoglia and Hayley Bennett. A pair of brothers stumble upon a mysterious hole in their basement that leads to the darkest corridors of their fears and nightmares. Mixing believable characters with inventive, imaginative thrills and spills, The Hole is a classic, 80s style family adventure with some surprisingly dark moments.
The Last Airbender (PG) Starring Noah Ringer, Nicola Peltz and Jackson Rathbone The story follows the adventures of Aang, a young successor to a long line of Avatars, who must put his childhood ways aside and stop the Fire Nation from enslaving the Water, Earth and Air nations. Directed by M.Night Shyamalan.
The Girl Who Played With Fire (15) Starring Noomi Rapace, Michael Nyqvist Mikael Blomkvist, publisher of Millennium magazine, has made his living exposing the crooked and corrupt practices of establishment Swedish figures. So when a young journalist approaches him with a meticulously researched thesis about sex trafficking in Sweden and those in high office who abuse underage girls, Blomkvist immediately throws himself into the investigation.
Salt (15) Starring Angelina Jolie and Liev Schreiber As a CIA officer, Evelyn Salt swore an oath to duty, honour and country. Her loyalty will be tested when a defector accuses her of being a Russian spy. Salt goes on the run, using all her skills and years of experience as a covert operative to elude capture. Salt’s efforts to prove her innocence only serve to cast doubt on her motives, as the hunt to uncover the truth behind her identity continues and the question remains: “Who is Salt?”
Report from Alec Barradell, Sports Captain On 30th October we went to play at Ratby’s sports ground for a small tournament to get the football season started. There were two groups and we were in group A along with our rivals Elizabeth Woodville, Martinshaw and South Charnwood. Our first game in the seven a side tournament was against Martinshaw. Which they took the lead with an unlucky first goal, but we picked ourselves up and Ethan Collier scored a great equaliser. However in the dying seconds Martinshaw’s captain scored a goal, so the first game ended in an unfortunate 2-1 loss. Our next game was against South Charnwood High School, who had a lot taller players and seemed a very strong side. By half time it looked very evenly matched but we managed to get a goal which Ethan Collier scored. In the second half South Charnwood were piling on the pressure and attacking a lot but we kept them out with some fantastic saves from our keeper and great defending. At the end of that game we held out for a well deserved 1-0 win. Our final game was against our rivals Elizabeth Woodville who won the tournament last year but had lost both their games this year. Only one team goes through to the final from each group, if we won that we would have a chance of going through but we had to win it 4-0. We played an amazing game, Charlie Hand scored and so did George Rush but we didn’t score enough, so sadly we didn’t get through to the final.
The two best times to go fishing are when it’s raining and when it isn’t.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
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PARTRIDGE WORDSEARCH 1st Prize: A Sunday Lunch For Two & Bottle of House Wine at The Plough Inn, Ratby! Word Search Puzzle 2nd Prize: A £10 DVD Hire Voucher to Spend at Glenfield Moviezone! G S G N I R N E D L O G X A S G
I N U J W Y F P X L N N N O N P
C J I I B Z Z Q Y I G I G I L A
Z A I K O N V C P R A M M S O R
Q W L W L M H I V F E M C E R T
C K M L H I P N R D U I J V D R
F V E H I S M E W R V W D O S I
F X M N R N N A D P G S O D A D
K I I E C C G S S M S A U E L G
O W P J H O R B G D L S Q L E E
P I N H N E I M I X I N W T A H
P C E L M I Z T L R E A J R P I
A N E M T H Y O C J D W M U I F
S M U U A D Q U Z I X S X T N B
L R G E E S E A L A Y I N G G X
D G N I C N A D S E I D A L R N
Name: .................................................................................................
CALLINGBIRDS DRUMMERSDRUMMING Address: ................................................................................................ FRENCHHENS GEESEALAYING .................................................................Postcode: ............................. GOLDENRINGS LADIESDANCING If you can find the items which my true love gives to me in LORDSALEAPING the Twelve Days of Christmas song in the Wordsearch grid MAIDSAMILKING above, you could win A Sunday Lunch For Two & Bottle of PARTRIDGE House Wine at The Plough Inn, Ratby (see ad on page 24) PIPERSPIPING or a £10 DVD Hire Voucher to spend at Glenfield Moviezone SWANSASWIMMING (see ad on page 10). TURTLEDOVES
All you have to do to go into the draw is find - and mark a line through - 12 gifts mentioned in the Twelve Days of Christmas. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). Send your marked entry forms to: IN A PEAR TREE, Groby & Field Head Spotlight, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Saturday 8th January 2011. Please remember to fill in your name and address. The sender of the first correct entry drawn out of the hat will win the Sunday Lunch for Two voucher and the sender of the second will win the Moviezone DVD hire voucher. Good luck!
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LETTER With the current recession, the importance of university has risen drastically. Forty or fifty years ago, university was not an option for many, who left education due to the expenses involved, and the pressure to enter work. However, today university is simply the next step in education, and the only way to be sure of a well paid job in the future. The government announcement to remove the cap on university tuition fees has resulted in widespread discontent throughout the country. Their proposal is to allow universities to charge up to £9,000 a year, a staggering increase from the previous cap of £3,290. Despite the fact that universities will be expected to offer bursaries and other forms of financial aid to encourage students from poorer backgrounds to apply, (if they decide to charge over £6,000 a year) this is still a colossal blow to students everywhere who wish to continue their education. Tensions within the coalition government have begun to rise as a result of these proposals, as the Liberal Democrats have been campaigning to abolish tuition fees for six years. Liberal Democrat party members have permission to abstain from any vote that would result in increased fees, and although many members have claimed that they will vote in opposition to the scheme, it is unlikely that this will be enough to have any effect on the plans, leaving students who voted Lib Dem feeling deceived. It is evident, therefore, that university tuition fees will rise. In addition, the government have put restrictions on the amount of students universities can accept, and as a result university places will be even harder to obtain. As a student planning to go to university myself in 2011, the increase in fees may not affect me, however the repercussions will. Universities are expecting a huge surge of applicants, each trying to avoid the immense price that the government has put on education. As a result, more applicants will be turned away, leaving college students wondering what to do next. This proposal will have devastating long term effects. With such a vast amount of students being turned away, the demand for jobs will be higher, and, as a result, jobs will be even harder to obtain and companies will have higher expectations of their applicants. Even the students who manage to get a place and take out a loan will leave university with huge debts, debts they will spend their lives trying to repay. Who has the right to put a price on education? The government’s plans will destroy the dreams of students all over the country. Education is now just something else the poorest families can’t afford.
Rebecca Harrison I wouldn’t say my car is old, but it’s insured against fire, theft and Vikings.
Created by PuzzlemakerMyat DiscoveryEducation.com pal Charlie’s got a fantastic new off-road vehicle. It’s a Reliant Robin 3x3.
Here are the 12 GIFTS you have to find: PARTRIDGE • TURTLE DOVES • FRENCH HENS • CALLING BIRDS GOLDEN RINGS • GEESE A LAYING • SWANS A SWIMMING MAIDS A MILKING • LADIES DANCING • LORDS A LEAPING PIPERS PIPING • DRUMMERS DRUMMING Last issue’s first prize winner was MARION PIDCOCK of Branting Hill Avenue, Groby. You win a £20 Lunch Voucher to spend at Broughtons Luxury Coffee Lounge in Anstey. The winner of the second prize - a £10 DVD Hire Voucher to spend at Glenfield MovieZone - was MRS. P. CARTER, of Flaxfield Close, Groby. Congratulations! Your vouchers will be with you within 21 days.
It’s better to have poor taste than no taste at all.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
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The Doctor Who Christmas Special: A Christmas Carol
The thrilling adventures of the Eleventh Doctor (Matt Smith) and newlyweds Amy Pond (Karen Gillan) and Rory Williams (Arthur Darvill) will continue in a Doctor Who fun-filled and heartfelt festive story, A Christmas Carol, this Christmas on BBC One. In the grand tradition of Doctor Who Christmas specials, this year the show has once again attracted stellar guest stars, as veteran actor Michael Gambon (Harry Potter, The Singing Detective) and Opera diva Katherine Jenkins, in her first acting role, join the Time Lord for what might be his most Christmassy adventure yet! On winning her part, Katherine Jenkins said: “I’m over the moon to be involved in the Doctor Who Christmas Special - I can’t quite believe it as it’s a part of the family tradition at the Jenkins household. I heard the news that I got the role on my 30th birthday and it was the best birthday present ever!” About the series, Lead Writer and Executive Producer, Steven Moffat, commented: “Oh, we’re going for broke with this one. It’s all your favourite Christmas movies at once, in an hour, with monsters. And the Doctor. And a honeymoon. And... oh, you’ll see. “I’ve honestly never been so excited about writing anything. I was laughing madly as I typed along to Christmas songs in April. My neighbours loved it so much they all moved away and set up a website demanding my execution. But I’m fairly sure they did it ironically.” The Christmas special follows on from Matt Smith’s first series as The Doctor, which attracted huge critical acclaim for Smith, his companion Gillan and lead writer Moffat, from press and legions of fans alike. Ben Stephenson, Controller, BBC Drama Commissioning said: “Matt Smith and Karen Gillan captivated audiences in their debut series, and Doctor Who’s clever twist on the much loved A Christmas Carol will thrill BBC One viewers this year with special guest stars Sir Michael Gambon and singing sensation Katherine Jenkins joining Amy and the Doctor for an unforgettable present!” The series was commissioned by Ben Stephenson, Controller, BBC Drama Commissioning for BBC One. Steven Moffat is Lead Writer and Executive Producer with Piers Wenger and Beth Willis also executive producing. A couple are lying in bed. The man says: “I’m going to make you the happiest woman in the world.” The woman replies: “I’ll miss you.” He was an ugly baby. His mother only started to get morning sickness after he was born.
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Next dates: Sat 18th December & Sat 15th January ARRAN BRUDENELL, Tel: 0116 234 0548
When it comes to giving, some people stop at nothing.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! To all our customers new and old. Thank you for another successful year from your local
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Merry Christmas to Spotlight Readers!
The world gets better every day, then worse again in the evening.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069 A party of members went to Kilworth House for afternoon tea and talk. It was an atrocious day and quite frankly I thought I would be better off at home but how wrong can you be. There were well over 100 members from Leicestershire and Rutland who sat down in the lovely Orangery. The tables were laid with lovely table cloths and real serviettes. Young waiters (they seem to get younger) appeared bearing three tier cake stands with the lovely dainty savouries (not my usual cob size). When we had delicately cleared the plates, these were then whisked away and replaced by three tiers of wonderful cakes. We forced ourselves to struggle through but before we had reached the end of them plates of scones arrived to be served with thick cream and jam. We actually left a few, this must go down as a record. It was too posh a place for me to bring out my usual doggy bag, pity. A lady on the next table to us actually came with a cooler bag, she must have had a whole kennel of dogs.
Our speaker arrived, Rosemary Hawthorne, a very elegant, slim and extremely well spoken lady. Rosemary gave us a brief outline of herself. Her family were always interested in fashion and she made friends with a fellow student who studied period costume. Hence the beginning of her interest in knickers. Rosemary went to RADA and had a brief career on the stage before marrying her businessman husband. Her husband so she informed us had had a mid-life crisis and she woke up one morning
Groby WI News from Margaret Gamble
Russian Dolls at the ‘Russian Christmas’ display at Chatsworth House finding herself married to a Vicar. He then became known as the knicker parson. Rosemary began by bringing what would be worn in the early l7th century. Until then no woman had worn any sort of knicker because of the voluminous tiers of petticoats etc. Just imagine trying to drop, you know what, wearing all those tiers of underclothes and full dresses. In Jane Austen’s time, the Empire line (low tops and slim muslin dresses) demanded that something should be done. Until then women wore a long garment like a nightie under their dress. It was called a chemise or a shift. However, after about 1800 women also wore drawers. Some came to below the knee or were longer garments with frills at the bottom called pantalettes both having separate legs. Rosemary said these were known as “everyreadies”, “gates of paradise” or “free traders”. They were actually joined at the waist but still open at the unmentionable bit. Hence even today we still say a pair of knickers or a pair of panties. False bras were also becoming fashionable, these were made of wax. The problem with them was, when finding yourself too near the candelabra and you would feel a melting sensation, slipping southwards not necessarily evenly.
Later when ladies began to ride bicycles they were actually sewn up having flaps and buttons and known as trap door knickers. By the time we came to the flappers of the 1920s there was silk for those who could afford it and rayon etc for the likes of yours truly. Silk was very graceful but was inclined to make you slide off your chair so I am told. Of course we must not forget the coming of elastic, even I can remember mine snapping, happy days. Come the Second World War, knickers were made of anything you could get. Parachute silk if you were lucky, some were even knitted but the best were provided by the Americans who would get really smart ones (easy to Yank down) and nylons. Rosemary was a very funny speaker but what really amused me was her Vicar husband sitting at the back and thoroughly enjoying himself. It was an altogether great afternoon. I did think this paragraph should be for ladies eyes only but if a Vicar could just sit there, I thought Groby chaps could take it in their stride. By the way she did produce a pair of Yfronts, just so they weren’t left out. It was AGM time at our monthly meeting. As I thought, it turned out to be quite a lively evening. I am sorry to say that, for various reasons, we lost a couple of
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Committee members but are very happy to have two new ladies join us. One retiring Committee member was born in the Village and joined her mother to become a member when she was quite young. Although the Village has grown and we welcome newcomers, we still have a number of Groby born ladies, it makes a good mixture. Glenfield Country Market joined us and as usual brought a large number of lovely cakes, preserves etc and a large selection of crafts ranging from cards, scarves, knitted and material articles. This makes for a very easy and pleasant way of doing Christmas shopping. A coach load of our members had a great trip to Chatsworth House. Reports from my cub reporters said it was absolutely beautiful. This year the House hosted a celebration of the cultures and traditions of Russia. All the rooms related to that Country, There was even a lovely Russian sleigh draped with furs (I have no idea whether they were real or not). One room was set for the James Bond film, “From Russia With Love”. The film’s music was being played but Sean Connery was nowhere to be seen. Just imagine getting him in your Christmas stocking but it wasn’t to be. After lunch, they visited the Chatsworth shop which, as always, was fantastic but apart from the odd treat most decided that it was beyond their pockets, still it’s nice to dream. We had plenty of takers for our monthly Luncheon Club. I always feel sorry for other diners as we are rather noisy, just discussing business of course. Well, on behalf of Groby WI, may I wish everyone in Groby a VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR. I realise that 2011 may be rather a difficult one but we are always at the Village Hall on the third Thursday of each month. So if you want cheering up, to make new friends and have an interesting evening, do come along.
Margaret Gamble
The supermarket sign said ‘Eight items or less’. So I changed my name to Les.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Churches Together in Groby All Groby residents will receive a Christmas leaflet with all the Christmas/New Year events and services held by the churches; please choose the ones which will suit you and we trust that you will be able to mark Christmas well.
3SE poster, to be sent
Fair Cuppa: an opportunity to meet with friends at the village hall. Every Thursday, 10.00—11.30am. Carols and Cards on 16th Dec
Urban Saints During term time, held at the URC chapel: games, friends, crafts and a Christian basis to discussions. - for 5’s to 14’s on Mon evenings at 3.45pm, 6.30pm or 7.45pm - for 15-18’s on Wed evenings at 7.30pm - for 15-18’s o Fri at 7.30pm More details on the church websites
Christmas/New Year events and services: 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 Mrs Norma Whittaker 287 6606 Children/Youth Worker Deb Goodhead 07730 596309
Sign up for a Swimathon session Swimathon 2011 - the world’s biggest fundraising swimming event - hits over 575 pools across the UK between 8-10 April, when 20,000+ swimmers will raise more than £2m for Marie Curie Cancer Care and the Swimathon Foundation. The majority of the funds will help support Marie Curie Nurses who provide free nursing care to cancer patients and those with other terminal illnesses in the place of their choice. The charity expects to provide care to around 29,000 terminally ill patients in the community and in its hospices this year and is the largest provider of hospice beds outside the NHS. Olympic gold medallist and Swimathon President Duncan Goodhew comments: “As we approach a quarter of a century of Swimathons, I’m delighted to report that the 2010 event enjoyed an astonishing 37 per cent rise in entries. And what’s really exciting is that around 2,500 of those who dived in told us that they only started swimming again when they entered Swimathon. From these grass roots right up to our overflowing international trophy cabinet, it seems that Britain’s love affair with swimming really is back to stay.” Now in its 24th year, over half a million swimmers have taken part in Swimathon - swimming the equivalent of over 24 times round the world and raising more than £32 million for charity. Sign up for a Swimathon session at your nearest participating pool between 4 January and 31 January 2011 and you’ll enjoy half price entry. Swimmer entry is open until 7 April 2011. Either go online to www.swimathon.org or call 0845 36 700 36.
No matter what happens, somebody will find a way to take it too seriously.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-DECEMBER 2010 • Tel: 01530 244069
Crime Figures for Nov 2010
Anstey & District Funeral Service
The following incidents were reported to the Police in the local area during November 2010. Description
Groby
Field Head
House Burglaries Actual: Leicester Road, Garendon Way Attempted: None
2 Actual 0 Attempted
0
Garage, Shed, Outbuilding Burglaries Actual: Ratby Road Attempted: None
1 Actual 0 Attempted
0
Theft of Motor Vehicle: Glebe Road - car left to defrost
1
0
Theft from Motor Vehicle: Ratby Road
1
0
Damage to Motor Vehicle: Parklands Avenue
1
0
Non-Domestic Assaults
9
0
Anti Social Behaviour Incidents
3
0
Crimes That Don’t Affect Residents Homes or Cars
9
0
TOTAL (Actual)
27
0
TOTAL (Attempted)
0
0
Theft: 5 / Damage: 0 / Other: 4
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. CRIMESTOPPERS: 0800 555111 • Groby Neighbourhood Watch: 0116 287 4500.
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Unwanted Presents Or Sale Purchases? “After the festive season, many people will be contemplating how they will get rid of unwanted presents or dispose of household furniture in order to accommodate new purchases made in the sales. Age Concern is the answer!” says Peter Ralphs of the local Age Concern. The credit crunch is affecting stocks of clothes, books and furniture in Age Concern Leicester Shire & Rutland’s 22 shops upon which the charity so heavily relies. Tony Donovan, the charity’s executive director, said: “It’s a Catch - 22! On the one hand, more people are saving money in these difficult times by buying the high quality goods which we sell, whilst on the other, traditional donors are apparently more inclined to ‘make do and mend’ rather than donate saleable items to our charity’s shops. If the situation continues, this could directly affect the level of services which we are able to provide in the future” Items can be delivered to any of the charity’s shops – for convenient locations, ring 0116 2992233 - whilst large items such as furniture can be collected from homes by calling 0116 267 2098.
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0116 2879715 / 07814224630 I would enjoy jogging if it wasn’t for those long walks back.