Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year to Everyone!
Remembrance Sunday: The Centenary FIRSTLY I would like to apologise to all the people who could not get into the club for this event. In past years when the event has been held on the Club car park we normally get about 120 people attending, so for this year’s Service we anticipated that about 200 people would attend, which would have been able to get into the club not the 300 plus that did attend. I would like to thank you all for coming and for the good comments that I heard about the new Tommy added to the War Memorial. I would also like to thank the Rev Edward Bampton and all the other people who helped out on the day with the reading, poems etc. It was also nice to see the Scouts, Guides, Cubs, Brownies and Rainbows at this service as they are the ones that will keep this tradition going as they get older. The collection on the day raised a total of £228.83 which has been donated to the Royal British Legion by the club. After the service I met with Rev Edward Bampton and we had a discussion about what we could do next year to improve on this year, one point that came up about holding the last post in the car park after the service inside has finished with a break to allow people to get to the car park in time for this to take place. I was also asked why no places were kept for ex-service personnel to attend, but as I explained the name on the front of the club has been kept there as it was formed by servicemen in the village looking for a place to meet and talk after the First World War. The Club started out as a Nisson hut with a stove in the middle, but now the club is open for anybody to join and is not just for ex-service personnel.
I would also like to thank Cadle Builders for installing the Tommy and English Rose Memorials for redoing the poppies on the name stones free of charge. I would also like your views on what could be done to make next year better, so anybody with any ideas please drop them the into the club addressed to me and marked War Memorial. Once again my thanks to you all for supporting this year’s Remembrance Sunday.
Paul Brudenell
(Remembrance Organiser)
Groby Meadow News - (Groby CIC)
Can you help fund a new footbridge at Groby Meadow? OBSERVANT residents of the village may have noticed new excavations taking place on the Groby CIC Meadow on Newtown Linford Lane. No, not another visit from the Time Team but work to improve the drainage of the meadow and the village. A new drainage ditch has been created but we need funds to construct a further footbridge across it. We have been working with Stakeholders for nearly five years on this issue and according to Severn Trent, the existing drainage pipe across the Meadow was blocked and needed replacing. After much discussion it was agreed that a drainage ditch would be more effective and more easily monitored. This is along the line of the open ditch that existed in the 1960’s and followed the line of the drainage pipe. On Saturday 24th November, a team of CIC volunteers and contracted grounds man set about the task. The ditch and a safe crossing point at it’s lower end were completed on the day but there is still extra work to be undertaken by Severn Trent where their pipe joins the Meadow boundary. The CIC is hoping to construct a further footbridge across the ditch when funds become available, and this is why we are appealing for donations or sponsorship offers. Thanks to the Trustees of the Thomas Herbert Trust for their continued support of the Meadow and to the person who made an anonymous donation, thereby ensuring that there were sufficient funds to complete this important work. The Meadow will be closed until the end of January to allow for the extra work to be carried out. When it re-opens walkers will need to use the slightly redirected footpath and the safe crossing point. Anyone with a lively dog or energetic children will have to be extra vigilant.
John Hitchings (Groby CIC) NEXT ISSUE OUT ON 19TH JANUARY - ARTICLES & ADVERT DEADLINE: 5TH JANUARY
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
HBBC Refuse & Recycling arrangements
Letter
Praise for new play equipment I JUST wanted to thank the council for the new Play Equipment on Castell Park.
THERE WILL be alternate arrangements for collections due on Tuesday 25 December, Wednesday 26 December and Tuesday 1 January. All other refuse and recycling collections will continue as usual during the Christmas and New Year period. However, the garden waste (brown bin) collection service will be suspended for two weeks during the Christmas and New Year period (last collection Thursday 20 December and collections starting again Friday 4 January 2019). Alternate arrangements for refuse (black bin) and recycling (blue-lid bin) collections due on Tuesday 25 December, Wednesday 26 December and Tuesday 1 January are as follows: • Refuse due on Tuesday 25 December will be collected on Monday 24 December • Recycling (blue-lid) due on Tuesday 25 December will be collected on Friday 21 December • Refuse due on Wednesday 26 December will be collected on Thursday 27 December • Recycling (blue-lid) due on Wednesday 26 December will be collected on Friday 28 December • Refuse due on Tuesday 1 January will be collected on Monday 31 December • Recycling (blue-lid) due on Tuesday 1 January will be collected on Wednesday 2 January For residents living in rural west areas of the borough who usually have garden and refuse bins collected on the same day, collection arrangements are as follows: • Recycling (Blue-lid) due on Tuesday 25 moves to Monday 24 December • Recycling (Blue-lid) due on Wednesday 26 moves to Thursday 27 December • Refuse due on Tuesday 1 January moves to Monday 31 December Residents can find full details of collection dates on their collection calendars or on-line at http:// www.hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk/ collections
The play area is ideal for the younger child and the equipment is lovely and my grandchildren love it. So a big ‘Thank you’ - a real success - money well spent.
Ann, A grateful Nanna
Friday Afternoon Knit and Chat at Groby United Reformed Church
WE ARE a group of keen knitters who like to knit for charity projects. Coming up to Christmas we have completed 22 shoe boxes to send as gifts to Women’s Aid Leicestershire - they provide safe, temporary accommodation for women and children escaping from abuse. The group also knits blankets for refugees and hats for the homeless. Our gifts have been delivered to Leicester Cathedral, who help to forward our gifts.
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Public services Christmas closures Groby Surgery and Well Pharmacy The surgery and the nearest pharmacy (Well on Ratby Road) will be closed on 25th and 26th December and Tuesday 1st January 2019. Parish Council The office will close at the normal time on Friday 21st December and re-open on Wednesday 2nd January 2019. Emergency cover will be provided over the holiday period (0116 287 6985). Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council Borough Council services at the Hinckley Hub will close at 12 noon on Monday 24 December and re-open at 8.30am on Thursday 27 December. Also closed on Tuesday 1 January 2019. In an emergency call Tel. 01455 251137. Coalville Waste Recycling site Closed 25th and 26th December and Tuesday 1st January 2019. Also closed Thursday – Friday during the winter months. Groby Community Library See the Library newsletter feature. Arriva local buses in Leicestershire Sunday 23 December 2018 Normal Sunday service Christmas Eve - Monday 24 December - Saturday timetables (finishing around 6.30pm) Christmas Day - Tuesday 25 December 2018 - No service Boxing Day - Wednesday 26 December 2018 - Sunday timetables Thursday and Friday 27/28 December 2018 - Saturday timetables Saturday 29 December 2018 Saturday timetables Sunday 30 December 2018 Sunday timetables New Year’s Eve - Monday 31 December - Saturday timetables (finishing around 6.30pm) New Year’s Day - Tuesday 1 January 2019 - No service Wednesday 2 January 2019 Normal services resume
Norman Griffiths
Wise Words
Magic happens when you do not give up, even though you want to. The universe always falls in love with a stubborn heart. Author Unknown
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Success for two local slimmers
Book Spot Absolute Proof by Peter James
Debbie’s slimming story MY SLIMMING world journey began after having my second baby. I ignored it through pregnancy but having put on over 5 stone being pregnant I needed to start doing something about my gain. I lost a few stones before group but a year after having my son, enough was enough. I needed to shift the 3 stone I had left so I asked my Mummy friends if they fancied joining a Slimming World group with me which they did. We joined the Markfield group which I absolutely love. It’s a smaller group and already after being there only 8 months they are all like family. So so supportive, very helpful and so friendly too. But obviously my success so far is not only due to the support from my friends and group members, but Louise too who has been there every step of the way making sure I’m okay, asking if I need any help and keeping me on track. So far I have lost 2½ stone with 5lbs away from pre pregnancy and 11lbs away from target. I know I will do it! Looking back I was so tired all the time, so self-conscious and struggled with sciatica constantly. Now I have so much more energy to run around after my two boys, my sciatica is no where near as bad and my confidence...wow! I feel I am me again before I had kids but this time I can call myself a yummy mummy!
Tracy’s slimming story I JOINED Slimming World Markfield in Jan 2018. Although I live in Groby, I chose Slimming World Markfield because I joined with a group of friends who I had met through having my two children. As a group we had enjoyed many mummy meet ups that involved coffee and cake but it was time to change. We were all determined to lose the baby weight and doing it together would give the support we needed. During most of my adult life I have yoyoed with my weight but since having my children it had gotten out of control. I was so disheartened when I looked in the mirror and my confidence had hit rock bottom. I feel very lucky to have found a very warm, friendly and supportive group at Markfield. Going to weekly weigh-ins to face the scales as well as staying for image therapy was what I needed to stay on track. Through my journey I haven’t seen it as a diet - it’s a lifestyle change for the better. You can still have those treats just in moderation. Following the plan I have reached my target and lost 4st 1½ lbs in 28 weeks! Slimming World has given me my smile back and I actually enjoy going clothes shopping!
INVESTIGATIVE reporter Ross Hunter nearly didn’t answer the phone call that would change his life – and possibly the world – for ever. ‘I’d just like to assure you I’m not a nutcase, Mr Hunter. My name is Dr Harry F. Cook. I know this is going to sound strange, but I’ve recently been given absolute proof of God’s existence – and I’ve been advised there is a writer, a respected journalist called Ross Hunter, who could help me to get taken seriously.’ What would it take to prove the existence of God? And what would be the consequences? This question and its answer lie at the heart of Absolute Proof, an international thriller from bestselling author Peter James. The false faith of a billionaire evangelist, the life’s work of a famous atheist, and the credibility of each of the world’s major religions are all under threat. If Ross Hunter can survive long enough to present the evidence . . .
What I don’t like about office Christmas parties is looking for a job the next day.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Proposals for up to thirty dwellings on old A50
Call for planning consent to be withheld until flooding issues resolved THE PROPOSALS for the development of the old A50 behind Leicester Road have moved forward a stage with the submission by Countryside Properties of more detailed proposals for up to 30 dwellings. The site can be viewed from the Bluebell Drive roundabout on Leicester Road. The proposed properties are a combination of 3 bedroom Houses, 2 bedroom Houses and 1 bedroom maisonette units. The applicant is said to be fully aware of previous issues regarding localised flooding at this site and the drainage has been considered in detail as part of the design of the scheme. They say the principles agreed at outline stage have been followed and a suitable sized area designated for SuDS has been incorporated. Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) are a natural approach to managing drainage in and around properties and other developments. Such systems aim to control surface rainfall run-off by controlling the rate and volume of runoff from site, relieving pressure on sewerage systems and mimicking natural drainage as closely as possible.
Concerned residents Despite these re-assurances the local residents still have some major concerns, with the issue of drainage top of the list. Five members of the public attended the Parish Council Planning Committee on November 28th. When there has been heavy rain the drainage system in the immediate area has been unable to cope, resulting in the lifting of manhole covers and the discharge of both foul and surface water. Severn Trent Water has acknowledged the problems and has undertaken some remedial works on the underground pipework, but this has not completely eliminated the flooding during adverse weather events. The Committee agreed to object to the application on two grounds: 1: That the application should be postponed until the existing ongoing unsolved flooding issues have been resolved by Severn
Trent, who are in mid process of investigating this issue. Since 1993 there have been 13 flooding issues and this can only be exacerbated by the new development as there is no indication of a flooding solution as part of the “build”. The current rainwater flooding not only floods the houses and gardens but causes the drainage to back up and enter the “foul” system which then overflows at the manholes causing the foul waste to enter the gardens and the open rainwater drainage ditch at the rear of Daisy Close. 2: There is a lack of any topographical drawings of the site and new houses will apparently overlook the existing houses as they are on a higher level. It was also agreed that four additional conditions should be added if approval is given: • All site traffic to enter the village via an agreed route from the south of the village (from the A50/A46 roundabout and the Sacheverell Way roundabout) and not enter or exit via the village centre ( Ratby Lane, Newtown Linford Lane or Markfield Road) . This to be signed
Aerial view of the site by LCC as ‘No entry for site traffic’, etc. • Due to an existing parking problem in Groby, and to prevent additional road hazards on the Leicester Road, all site vehicles would be required to park on site. • Due to the nature of the exit/ egress to the site via a mini roundabout on Leicester Road an on-site wheel wash be provided to avoid contamination of the Leicester Road. • That the working hours should not extend outside of 0800hrs and 1700hrs and that the working week should not include Sundays. The Planning Committee has asked that the Full Council issue a press release in due course and invite the local press to a site meeting to explain the flooding issue. The application and site plans can be viewed on the Planning pages at the Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council website, entering the reference number (18/01038/ REM) in the simple search box.
Norman Griffiths
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Let Sleeping Dogs Lie AN OLD, tired-looking dog wandered into my house. Slowly he walked into the sitting room, and fell asleep on the rug. An hour later he went to the door, and I let him out. The next day he was back, walked by me into the house, and again slept for an hour or so in the sitting room. This daily visit and nap continued for several weeks. Curious, I finally pinned a note to his collar: ‘Are you are aware that your sweet dog comes to my house each day for a nap?” The next day he arrived with a different note pinned to his collar: “He lives in a home with my six children - he’s trying to catch up on his sleep. Can I come with him tomorrow?”
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Regarding my family, I’m the youngest of three; my parents are both older.
All the men in my family were bearded, and most of the women.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
County Councillor’s Report from Ozzy O’shea Planning Application 18/01038/REM Former Highway Land at Leicester Road, Groby THE ABOVE application has been submitted to the Borough Council for 30 houses on reserved matters after an application for access was granted previously. I have met with residents and I fully share their concerns regarding the flooding issues. I also attended the planning meeting at Groby Parish Council, where residents raised several issues including flooding, proposed ground levels of the development, noise and construction traffic. I am currently working with a local resident who used to be a senior engineer at the County Council, We have already had meetings with both Severn Trent, and the Flood Authority on the current flooding issues on Leicester Road. This development would put extra pressure on a system that is already at capacity. To that end we are seeking an urgent meeting with Severn Trent and the Flood Authority, to look
at improving the flow before any extra capacity is put on this system by this proposed development. You can send your objections or observations on this application to Jenny Brader the planning officer dealing with this application via email to the following address Jenny.Brader@hinckley-bosworth. gov.uk or write to Jenny Brader at Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, The Hub, Rugby Road, Hinckley. LE10 0FR.
Consultation On Developer Contributions - Have Your Say GIVE YOUR views on a draft revised approach to securing developer contributions. The County Council are reviewing their ‘developer contributions’ policy - this sets out the approach the council takes to securing funding from housing developers for local infrastructure and services to benefit communities affected by new developments. Revised guidance has been produced to meet the challenges and opportunities arising
from anticipated growth and development within the county. The key changes to the policy are: • EDUCATION – an enhanced, detailed educational methodology and justification of the requirements for education contributions has been added, including new pupil yield rates, early years provision and transitional arrangements; • SOCIAL CARE AND HEALTH – a set of metrics have been developed to better assess the impacts that new developments may have on social infrastructure required to meet national policy requirements of sustainable development; • HIGHWAYS AND TRANSPORT – to maintain growth, provisions have been added to ensure, where appropriate, new developments will be required to mitigate any stifling effect they have on the proper and efficient operation of the transport system. Also, to encourage sustainable transport the Policy now emphasises the need to ensure, so far as possible, contributions are targeted to achieve better use of public transport; • WASTE MANAGEMENT – a more integrated approach
Ozzy O’shea
is proposed that takes into consideration the wider waste network and infrastructure requirements that new development may demand You can go to the County Council’s Website and find this consultation under have your say or use the following link. https://www.leicestershire. gov.uk/have-your-say/currentconsultations/developercontributions-have-your-say The consultation runs from 15 November, 2018 until 5pm on 10 January, 2019 Comments or responses should be sent to planningcontrol@leics. gov.uk
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
(
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Tel: 0116 239 4336 Mobile: 07808 585825
Groby Community Kitchen/Cook and Chat MY WIFE Jenny has set this up with officers from the Borough Council’s community house after we successfully set up the same programme in Ratby a month ago. The group meets every Monday at Groby Community Centre, Forest Rise, Groby between 10am and 12noon. All food is provided - get your dinner for free. If you are feeling lonely or have time on your hands, come along - all are welcome, young and old. Meet excellent company and enjoy a free tea or coffee. Please come along we are sure you will have fun and enjoy yourself. Jenny has secured this free cooking morning for residents please come along and support it you will enjoy your time. So if you are at a loose end on a Monday morning, please pop in to see what’s going on in your village. You will be made most welcome. For more information call Rachel or Shirley 01455 255941/255942 earlshiltoncommunityhouse@ hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk Jenny O’shea can be contacted on 07828 257139/ 01162394336 or email jennyoshea2135@gmail.com
Wear Something Bright At Night I DON’T need to remind you all that the dark nights have arrived. I have been asked to remind residents to wear something bright at night. I have been asked to remind parents to make sure your children also wearing something bright and reflective. Thank you.
HMRC Student Tax Scam A RISING number of students across hundreds of universities in the UK are being targeted by fraudsters sending fake tax refund emails. HMRC said that it was the first time the authority has seen a taxscam focusing on students in such high numbers. Thousands of students in just a few weeks have reported fraud, as scammers try to obtain their financial details. Fake emails, which use addresses that can appear legitimate such as “uc.ac.uk”, may tell people that they are owed money and encourage them to send their personal details.
The emails and texts often include links which direct students to websites where their data is then stolen. “HMRC will never inform you about tax refunds by email, text or voicemail,” said Mel Stride, the Financial Secretary to the Treasury. “If you receive one of these messages, it is a scam. Do not click on any links in these messages, and forward them to HMRC’s phishing email address.” Between April and September 2018 HMRC requested that 7,500 phishing sites be deactivated, a significant increase from the 5,200 similar requests made in the same period in 2017. HMRC has encouraged all universities to raise awareness of the scams and said that many were already taking action to protect students. “Devious fraudsters will try every trick in the book to convince victims to hand over their personal information, often with devastating consequences,” said Pauline Smith, director of Action Fraud. “It is vital that students spot the signs of fraudulent emails to avoid falling victim by following HMRC’s advice.” Fraudulent emails often spoof the branding of GOV.UK, or of well known credit cards, in an attempt to seem authentic. The recipient’s name and email address may be repeated several times within the body of the email. HMRC has specifically urged a number of universities to take action, including Aberdeen, Bristol, Cambridge, Durham, Imperial College London and King’s College London. The tax authority has also encouraged Manchester Metropolitan University, Newcastle, Nottingham, Plymouth, Queen Mary, Queen’s, Southampton, Sussex, University College London and Warwick to raise awareness of the issue. Students who receive suspicious emails claiming to be from HMRC are urged to forward them to phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk and texts to 60599.
Hotmail Scam Don’t be taken in by a recent Hotmail scam. This is what it says: Dear xxxxxxxxx@hotmail.com Our record indicates that your mail quota is full and your email will be deactivated, and this request will be processed shortly. You are advised to upgrade your account and cancel the request now Upgrade and Cancel De-Activation
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However, if you do not upgrade and cancel this request, your account will be de-activated shortly and all your email data will be lost permanently. Regards. Email Administrator This message is auto-generated from E-mail security server, and replies sent to this email can not be delivered. This email is meant for: xxxxxxxxx@ hotmail.com Email Paypal Scam Note The Spelling Errors, PayPal We recorded Previously suspicious movements in your account I would like to take this opportunity to thank residents for your continued support and wish you all a very Happy and Peaceful Christmas and a very Happy Healthy and prosperous New Year. Remember I am only an Email or a phone call away. Kind Regards
Ozzy O’shea Working for you Cllr Ozzy O’shea Tel 0116 2394336 or 07808585825 Email ozzy.o’shea@leics.gov.uk Email: ozzyoshea@hotmail.com
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County council looking to bid for £50m growth cash NEW PLANS have been set out to secure more than £50million to support new homes, job opportunities and reduce journey times in Leicestershire. Cabinet members will be asked later this month to clear the way for the council to bid for Government money to put infrastructure in place, supporting schemes in the south of Melton and south-west Leicestershire. If approved, a bid will be submitted by the March 1, 2019 deadline set by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). Further information on housing will follow as the proposals are developed. Potential housing developments will be subject to the usual local plan and planning processes of the relevant district councils. The report was discussed by the council’s Scrutiny Commission on 6th December and will be considered by the Cabinet on Tuesday, 18 December – meetings can be watched online at www. leicestershire.gov.uk/webcast
When I was a boy, I laid in my twin sized bed and wondered where my brother was.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Groby Surgery Patients Group Newsletter
Reassuring results from the annual patient Survey EVERY YEAR there is a national survey conducted for the NHS by Mori and a few months ago the results for the Groby area were published in the Spotlight. The Patient Participation Group(PPG) conducts an ‘in house survey’ each October to supplement the information produced by Mori. One of the questions asked in the PPG survey was whether the Receptionist was helpful on the last visit, or last contact with the Surgery. The question wasn’t answered by 4% of respondents, but of the remainder only 1% said that Reception was not really helpful. When asked about the Doctors and Nurse only 1% were not happy with the time taken to listen and understand the respondent’s needs and only 2% were not satisfied with the care and consideration that given on their last visit to the Surgery, although a further 2% declined to give a view on these two questions. The main research was conducted at the annual Saturday influenza clinic which rather limits the
demographic spread of the survey, so this year the results were supplemented by surveys during normal surgery hours when there were more younger patients available to participate. Although in recent years the ability to access services using computers, tablets and smart phones has been extended, only one in 3 respondents said that they were registered for the service. Of those who had internet access and gave a reason why they weren’t registered, most said either they didn’t know about it or hadn’t got round to it. Only 2% had privacy concerns. If you would like to be able to order repeat prescriptions online, or book appointments online, contact Reception for more information. The queue for the flu clinic was a lot longer than the queue to join the Patients Group, with only 3% saying they would like to join. Because of the confidentiality and anonymity of the survey the Patients Group doesn’t know who you are, so please give Reception a call! The next meeting is on Monday 14 January in the Surgery from 6 to 7 pm. This will be the Annual General Meeting, and a good opportunity
for new volunteers to sit in.
Winter ailments on the rise If you’ve been out and about you’ve perhaps noticed an increase in folk with coughs and colds. They can be difficult to avoid (the coughs and colds not the people) but basic hygiene and hand washing is one of your best defences. If it’s flu, and you’re over 65, and haven’t had your annual vaccination then it’s not too late. Call the surgery and get it done – influenza isn’t something that improves the Christmas experience in any way!
of breath, or another genuine emergency, you should call 999.
Norman Griffiths for Groby Surgery Patients Participation Group
Christmas opening hours The surgery and the nearest pharmacy (Well on Ratby Road) will be closed on 25th and 26th December and Tuesday 1st January 2019. If a doctor is required outside of normal surgery hours ring 0116 2313331or contact 111. Out-ofhours services are generally busy so please think carefully before asking to see a doctor and only do so if you genuinely cannot wait until the surgery re-opens. In the event of chest pains and/or shortness
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The problem isn’t that obesity runs in your family. The problem is no one runs in your family.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
11
Ask for Angela Scheme
Planning a date? AS WELL as what to wear and a list of conversation starters, make sure you also take some time to think about the best venue. Across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, a new initiative is being rolled out in various pubs and bars called Ask for Angela. So if you’re on a date and find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, if you don’t feel safe, if your date isn’t who they said they were, or if things just don’t feel quite right.. Go to the bar and ask for Angela. Staff in the venues listed below have been trained to recognise that the safe word ‘Angela’ means that there may be a problem. The member of staff can then offer to call a taxi for you, provide a safe place for you to call a friend, or just help you to leave the venue discretely if you were feeling unsafe due to your date’s actions, words or behaviour. For more information about the venues taking part in the scheme, visit www.leicestershire.gov.uk/askforangela
Groby Village Society December: No Meeting Meetings are held at Groby Village Hall - Starting at 7.30pm. Non Members are Welcome Tel. 0116 287 9842 The venue may have to be altered for some meetings. For Further Details Contact Hon. Secretary Mr. P. Castell E-mail:- pcastell42@gmail.com
Letter
WOULD IT be possible to print a one question survey for the patients in Groby who use Glenfield surgery? The PPG wants to know how easy it is for Patients who use a computer - and those who don’t use a computer - to access appointments and repeat prescriptions.
Mina Rodgers, Groby
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
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LIFE HAS taken on a more leisurely pace on the allotments now that winter is just around the corner. I am still harvesting my kale and spinach and the onions and garlic have been planted out. However, most of the plot is either given over to overwintering ‘green manure’ Phacelia, (which incidentally is still full of purple flowers and still attracting the odd hoverfly or bee) or covered with a layer of leaf mould to keep the weeds down this winter. Growing vegetables on the allotment takes a lot out of the soil, as the vegetables use up nutrients as they grow. Phacelia, also called Purple or Blue Tansy, is called a green manure as it is dug back into the soil and so puts nutrients back into the soil ready for the next crop to be grown. Leaving bare soil over winter is bad news as water-soluble soil nutrients, including nitrogen, are washed out of the soil during a wet winter. The green manures such as Phacelia plants create a dense ‘crop’ effectively covering the bare soil during those wet winter months, stopping the washing out of nutrients, and at the same time suppressing weed growth. The extensive roots of the Phacelia plant help to improve the soil structure and the dense growth also provides a place where ‘good’ creatures can spend the winter, ready to be excellent pest controllers next Spring. I let the Phacelia flower, to help feed the pollinators looking for a late meal, but unless you want to let it seed and spread all over the allotment, it is best to cut off the tops after flowering. There are many other green manures you can use, such as red clover, winter tares, or white mustard and they smell much nicer than the farmyard variety.
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The Winner was Kathy Griffiths, and here is a photo of her receiving her certificate and prize from our Chair, John Thornton. Pumpkins seemed to have grown well this year as we also had a runner up, who also received a certificate. My entry didn’t quite reach the dimensions of the winners, but it still provided some lovely winterwarmer meals of roasted pumpkin! I don’t know what Kathy cooked with her’s but her grandchildren made a great job of carving it! We have asked the winners of both the tallest sunflower and the biggest pumpkin to save some of the seeds from their winning entry for next year, so we can see if the ‘sons or daughters’ of the giants prove to be just as huge!
Improved Security at Ratby Road allotments WE RECENTLY had the last of our CCTV cameras installed to cover the Ratby Road allotments. We decided to install the cameras after a prolonged spate of vandalism last year on the Ratby Road site and a suggestion from the police as a means to identify and prosecute the perpetrators. The mindless damage caused by the vandals made some tenants feel uneasy about continuing to tend their plots, as a garden bench was broken, a hen house overturned (luckily empty at the time), water butts upended, chairs broken, beer bottles broken over plots, plants damaged, and attempted break-ins to several sheds. So, we are very grateful to Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council who helped us with a generous grant to allow us to complete this project. A number of cameras cover our allotment site now and we are now up and running, but sincerely hope that we have no need to use the footage as evidence, and the fact that unlawful entry to the site is now automatically captured on camera will be an effective deterrent.
Carol Lincoln
I was raised as an only child, which really annoyed my sister.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
13
Search facility added to GrobyOnline website A NEW ‘search this site’ option has been added to local website (www.grobyonline.tk). The site now has over 125 pages of news, articles and photographs, with many pages having multiple archived articles about a specific topic. This can sometimes make finding what you are looking for tricky as there are too many articles to link from the Home Page. A good example of how the site search can be helpful is an issue discussed at the December Parish Council meeting. When the A46 Western Bypass was mentioned a member pointed out that this was originally one of the planned routes for the M1 in the 1960’s. Entering ‘M1 motorway’ into the grobyonline.tk search bar returns 4 results, including the 2016 article “The Year the M1 nearly came through Groby.” It now seems astonishing that in November 1957 it was reported that the Forest route would cut into the Forest just north of Groby Pool. It would be in sight of Bradgate Park and Newtown Linford and would pass alongside the Scout camp at John’s Lea Wood and alongside the 12th Century Ulverscroft Priory and through the Ulverscroft Valley. The article reports on the work done on the subject funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council, and the campaign by the Leicester Evening Mail to stop this example of what many regarded as environmental vandalism. You can still click on the sitemap tab to see a full listing of all the pages, but using the search box will probably be quicker, though you may still have to scroll down the page to find the article you want. DECEMBER
Advert for Glenfield Christadelphians December 2018
Norman Griffiths
The Bible holds the Key to Eternal Life Bible Talks Jan 6
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The first time I met my wife, I knew she was a keeper. She was wearing massive gloves.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
National Trust Leicester Association NEWS OVER THE last 70 years the National Trust has become the custodian of the largest composite collection of works of art in single ownership in the world. The collection is considered to be the world’s largest and most significant holding of fine art and heritage objects. It includes paintings, sculpture, silverware, jewellery, porcelain, tapestries and carpets, rare books and furniture. Many of the items in the collection were commissioned, acquired and accumulated by country house owners over many centuries. Most items would have been displayed in their large houses to show off their wealth. At the last count the Trust collections list totalled 935,646 items. The list is updated every year with items being added all of the time and it can be viewed on the National trust website. The list includes 12,553 paintings. The property that contains the most individual historic artifacts is Tyntesfield near Bristol, with over 60,000 objects, all acquired in the 1800’s. They were purchased with the wealth accumulated by the family from the guano trade. “Where there’s muck there’s brass”!
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East Midlands NT properties feature well on the list with four properties , Belton House, Calke Abbey, Mr Straw’s House and Sudbury Hall all containing over 20,000 items. Part of the collection at Sudbury Hall are the rare toys donated to the National Trust by Betty Cadbury. One of the most recent additions to the Trust’s collection are works by Norman Thelwell. He is often regarded as the unofficial artist of the British countryside because of his humorous cartoons of mischievous ponies and horses drawn in the 1950’s and 60’s. The works are on display at Mottisfont in Hampshire.
• THE NT LEICESTER ASSOCIATION has an evening meeting on Tuesday 8th January at The Braunstone West Social Centre, St Mary’s Avenue, Braunstone, at 7.30pm. David Skillon will present an illustrated talk entitled “Women in the American Civil War” Admission is NTLA members £2.50, visitors £4.00, including refreshments. For details of the NT Leicester Association and its Talks Service for other organisations please call 0116 222 9133.
Alan Tyler, Publicity Officer
• Herman’s Hermits - “Mrs. Brown, You’ve Got A Lovely Walker” • Procol Harum - “A Whiter Shade Of Hair” • Johnny Nash - “I Can’t See Clearly Now” • Leo Sayer - “You Make Me Feel Like Napping” • ABBA - “Denture Queen” • Paul Simon - “Fifty Ways To Lose Your Liver” • Roberta Flack - “The First Time I Ever Forgot Your Face” • Commodores - “Once, Twice, Three Times To The Bathroom”
Wise Words My philosophy is it’s none of my business what people say of me and think of me. I am what I am, and I do what I do. I expect nothing and accept everything. And it makes life so much easier. Anthony Hopkins
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The anti-ageing advert that I would like to see is a baby covered in cream saying, ‘Aah, I’ve used too much.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
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January - time for the gym UP TO A million of us will join a gym next month. Up to 800,000 of us will have given it up by February. But before you return to the couch, why not consider the following: • Only do exercises that you enjoy. Have fun, and nothing else! Don’t torture yourself on the cross trainers if you prefer salsa dancing. Your endorphins will still be released, leaving you stimulated, inspired and generally better. • Start small. Okay, you like swimming, but why aim for 20 lengths your first time in the pool? You will never go back. Start instead with just two lengths, and then reward yourself with a coffee. Next time do three, and so on. Always end with a reward. • Go at the same time, on the same days. Make it a part of your week. You will meet the same people, and it will begin to feel natural. Make it a habit. • Be friendly. A lot of people are intimidated when they first go to a gym. So, the first week, smile at people, the second week try saying hello, and gradually you will get on friendly terms with enough of them so that you feel comfortable. • Don’t forget the spiritual. Away from the gym, give yourself time for your inner, spiritual well-being as well - on a daily basis. • Keep your mind active. Read books or join an evening class. Do puzzles. Mental fitness is just as important as physical fitness. • Be creative. Make the space around you more beautiful in some way decorate, paint, sew, knit, or even just add a vase of flowers. • Give some things up. As well as putting good things into your life, take some less-good things OUT of your life. What in your life is draining your time and energy, and giving little in return? Get rid of it!
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Royal visit of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge
Are your children gamblers? HERE IS a sobering fact: more children have placed bets in the past week than have drunk alcohol, smoked or taken drugs. Such are the findings from an audit by the Gambling Commission. It also found that one in seven 11to16-year-olds bet regularly, staking an average of £16 a week. And those who start betting young are more like to have issues as adults, warns the charity Gamcare. The sad truth is that gambling has never been easier, with online outlets available 24 hours a day. And once a young person accesses them, the sites bombard them with marketing prompts for ‘boosted’ odds and ‘free bets’. Youthsite, a research organisation for 16-to 30-year olds estimates that more than 100,000 students are in debt due to gambling, with one in four of those owing more than £10,000. Although the Government has promised to (eventually) reduce the FOBT (Fixed Odds Betting Terminal) maximum stakes from £100 to £2, there are fears that the reduction will itself only increase the attraction of betting online.
LOROS Hospice was among the honoured charities invited to meet Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at Leicester City Football Club on Wednesday 28th November. The Royal couple visited the King Power stadium to pay their respects to the club and the Srivaddhanaprabha family following the recent tragic helicopter crash in which five people died including Chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha. John Knight, LOROS CEO, said: “It was an honour and a privilege to talk to The Duke and Duchess about our work here at LOROS. “We enjoy a close bond with LCFC and are proud to call them a supporter. Our staff, patients and their families are delighted LOROS was chosen to attend the Royal couple’s visit. “Way back in May 1986, The Duke of Cambridge’s parents The Prince and Princess of Wales officially opened our Hospice. It is lovely to receive similar recognition from the next generation.” LOROS Hospice is closely linked to Leicester City Football Club. LCFC Club Ambassador Alan Birchenall is a LOROS’ patron and has been involved with the Hospice since the turf was cut on the original site 35 years ago. The club regularly donate items such as player memorabilia as raffle prizes as well as actively fundraising for the charity. Players are also regular visitors to meet patients and their families. Leicester City Ambassador and LOROS patron Alan Birchenall said: “The Club is really proud of its longstanding relationship with LOROS, which is one of a number of local charities we aim to support through the Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha Foundation. It was fantastic to be able to showcase that relationship for The Duke and Duchess on an important occasion for our city and demonstrate some of the impact our late Chairman made in the community.”
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
17
Cemetery extension can be deferred AMONGST ALL the bad news we are bombarded with every day by the media it is great to hear a good news story once in a while. Cemeteries wouldn’t be the first thing to spring to mind as a good news story, but although a reminder of our mortality they are also a source of great comfort to the bereaved. Planning for the future is essential to ensure the continuing availability of the service, and Groby Parish Council has land next to the Ratby Road cemetery which it holds in readiness for use as an extension in due course. Funding is set aside annually so that when the time comes to begin work on the extension the finance is available. This year consideration had been given by the Parish Council to the appointment of a Project Manager to oversee the design and delivery of the extension.
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So what’s the good news? The cemetery opened in 1998 and restrictions were later introduced which meant that Right of Burial is solely for the use of people who at the date of death were ordinarily residents in the Parish of Groby. However, if the deceased has recently moved away through illness or for nursing home care, they may (at the discretion of the Parish Council) be buried in Groby Cemetery. A review has been undertaken of the number of burials each year since opening. Needless to say numbers do vary from year to year but it has become clear that, unless there is a material change, there is no need to start work on the extension in the near future. This means that a large item of capital expenditure can be deferred by the Parish Council, and that’s good news for those having to manage the Council’s funds.
Want to know more? The cemetery is open daily. The car park gates are open from 8.00am to 4.30pm from October to March and from 8.00am to 8.00pm April to September. Pedestrian access is unrestricted. There have been problems with nonvisitors using the car park and the Parish Council hopes drivers will respect the fact that the car park is for the use of visitors to the cemetery only. A Cemetery Pack can be obtained from the Parish Council and enquiries or information on existing graves should be directed to the Parish Clerk on 0116 287 6985.
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I love face-painting. It’s a lot of fun. Although you do need the person’s permission.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Arriva Saturday services – two buses in two minutes Norman Griffiths wonders whether it will affect the profitability of the 26 service CHANGES to the Arriva timetables from November 18th have resulted in some buses leaving the Village Hall within 2 minutes of one another on Saturdays. There are concerns that this might impact on the viability of the 26 hourly Saturday service along Woodbank Road and Stephensons Way. Although the main daytime service on Mondays to Fridays still means 4 buses an hour from Groby centre into Leicester, the Saturday service change that means in practical terms the service from the Village Hall is reduced from 3 buses hourly to 2. Previously on Saturdays the 29 left this stop at 20 and 50 minutes past the hour, with the 26 leaving at 42 minutes past. On Saturday’s revised timetable the 26 is unchanged but the 29 is rescheduled to 10 and 40 minutes past the hour on Saturdays. Passengers will generally take the first bus that arrives and this means that if the 29 is on time all the available passengers at stops between the Village Hall and Leicester will take the 29. In these circumstances Saturday passenger numbers on the 26, which is scheduled to arrive 2 minutes later, are likely to be reduced. The experience of Veolia when they introduced their Starburst service in 2009 from Coalville to Leicester suggests that when two buses travel part of a route at more or less the same time one becomes less cost effective. When the Starburst 50 was subsequently withdrawn in 2010 a spokesperson said “On some portions of our route there was an existing service but on other portions we were on new territory. It soon became obvious that existing operators within the area made a decision to defend their existing routes by registering a service that mirrored ours and ran it a few minutes before our own. We have no desire at this moment in time to start what can only be described as a bus war so after due consideration we decided to cancel the service....We are also aware that the increased services by these other operators were indeed reduced again following our withdrawal. We would like to go on record to thank the passengers that travelled with us during our 6 months on our Service 50 and hope that they appreciate the commercial reason as to why we needed to withdraw.” Arriva’s Commercial Development Manager (South) explained that when making the November 2018 changes they weren’t able to maintain a reasonable spacing of the times of the two services on the inward route to Leicester. “We have reviewed the journey times and made some slight changes to the core timetable introduced in February 2017, as well as adjusting the vehicles’ layover (recovery time) at either end of this long interurban route to help deliver a more punctual service. Whilst we have been able to retain good coordination along Groby Road on Saturdays in the outbound direction (towards Groby) it is not possible to achieve this in both directions within the new vehicle cycles.” He added that “we have no plans to change the route or frequency of service 26 at this time.” Routes have to be profitable, however, so there are concerns that the change may reduce the viability of the Saturday service by the time of the next review. If this is the case it need not mean the end of the Saturday service as presumably Arriva could cross subsidize the 26 from a profitable route as it is the only bus service available to some Leicestershire residents. But it could mean a less frequent Saturday service or even a change of route back to Laundon Way. Residents who
The 29 is being rescheduled to 10 and 40 minutes past the hour on Saturdays.
depend on the service in the Woodbank Road area, and who still regret the withdrawal of Service 28, will be pleased to hear the route is safe for the moment. Arriva has made a change to the way they link the vehicle workings on their Groby Road services that, together with a couple of minor route amendments around Ashby and some judicious tree cutting by the County Council, now allow the company to use double decker buses on the 29/29A route. “These buses provide additional capacity which is much welcomed on the busy commuter and school journeys, and, come the spring, will give some amazing views over the National Forest as they travel out to Swadlincote and Burton-on-Trent.” The spokesperson added the bigger buses are needed partly because of the increased demand created by the Amazon warehouse “but more significantly the need is for school movements which have changed considerably in the past 12 months.”
As a child I watched Mary Poppins so many times I suffered from a condition with my sight. Umdiddleiddleiddleumdiddle Eye.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
BBC Clueless back in Groby
19
Health Survey England:
Most adults living unhealthy lifestyles says Heart Research UK THE OVERWHELMING majority of adults in England are so unhealthy they put their lives at risk, a survey suggests.
BBC Radio Leicester’s Clueless radio treasure hunt was back in Groby on Sunday December 2. The clues solved by listeners led the team to the fund raising Rudolph’s Christmas Fair organised by Bradgate Rotary at Groby Village Hall. They had to find the clue to the next location hidden on the Tombola stall, which took them off to Rowley Fields in Leicester. The photo shows Clueless’s Dale Neal, shortly after finding Clue 1.
Norman Griffiths
The data from the Health Survey for England showed nearly nine in 10 had at least one unhealthy trait. That was classed as those who smoke, drink more than 14 units of alcohol, eat fewer than five portions of fruit and vegetables, are obese or have low rates of physical activity. Alexandra Preston, head of Healthy Hearts at Heart Research UK, said: “These results are not unexpected, it is vital we all take responsibility for our health right now. Although 4 in ten adults have no signs of ill-health developing yet, people need to act now to prevent developing conditions such as heart disease in the future. “Fewer manual jobs, more office based roles and an increase in TV watching and video gaming means the current working generation are the first who need to make a conscious decision to build physical activity into their daily lives. We are simply consuming too many calories and not burning off what we consume.”
Wise Words One of the advantages of being 70 is that you need only four hours’ sleep. True, you need it four times a day, but still. The late, great, Denis Norden, who died last September.
I have a claim to fame, you know. I used to be the world’s youngest person.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Book Spot Where Did You Go? By Christina Rasmussen AN ACCLAIMED grief educator and the author of Second Firsts teaches readers how everyday people can communicate with loved ones who have passed away in this groundbreaking sciencedriven guide to connecting with the afterlife. Christina Rasmussen has helped countless people break out of the “waiting room” of grief and rebuild their lives through both her “life reentry” program and her respected book Second Firsts. Yet, she discovered that even as her students rebuild their lives and thrive again, many are left with the same burning questions: What happens when we die? Are we capable of connecting to those who have passed on? Christina herself wrestled with these spiritual questions after losing her thirty-five-year-old husband to cancer. As a professional grounded in science, Christina was a skeptic who shied away from the conventional mystical, supernatural, and religious descriptions of the afterlife—but her loss, pain, and deep need to understand drove her to find answers about what really happens after we die. With Where Did You Go? Christina reveals we all have the ability to connect with our loved ones who have passed on and teaches us how to harness that power—so that we may at last say the unsaid, discover peace in our own lives, and see a world in which we will all continue to exist, far beyond death. A step-by-step guide to journeying to the other side—as well as a groundbreaking exploration of what happens after we die—Where Did You Go? leads readers through practical exercises that serve as tools to help us experience the unseen world for ourselves, become comfortable with the experience, and trigger it whenever we desire—no psychic abilities required. Fiercely honest and practical, Where Did You Go? bridges the gap between the metaphysical and the measurable, changing the way we grieve, the way we live, and how we define our potential—in this life, and the hereafter.
Why aren’t the Christmas street lights switched off?
Book your tickets now for the MTTG Panto!
IT’S A FAIR question at a time when we are all being asked to cut our energy consumption and Co2 emissions. The answer is pretty straightforward. Last year, and the year before, the timer switches weren’t reliable. Replacements, which would have to be reprogrammed by the manufacturer, were priced at £120 each. The lights are much more energy efficient nowadays and leaving them on is likely to cost around £30 in electricity charges, significantly less than new timers. From an environmental point of view it might be argued that the cheaper option is being chosen without considering the higher CO2 emissions. However, the CO2 emission resulting from the manufacturing process of the timers would probably exceed the lighting’s emissions. On balance probably the right decision as this is the last year of the current lighting contract.
Norman Griffiths
St James the Least of All The Rev Dr Gary Bowness continues his letters from ‘Uncle Eustace’…
On New Year’s resolutions for 2019 The Rectory St James the Least My dear Nephew Darren Your New Year resolution of getting up at 4am and devoting the first four hours every day to private prayer and meditation does you credit – although I am not entirely certain you will get past the first week. I, too, make an annual resolution; this year it is to become more tolerant of my parishioners. I intend to become more tolerant of our deputy organist Mrs Ffrench. If we have a four-verse hymn, the dear lady is almost guaranteed either to play three or five verses. If the former, I always have to be prepared to start singing the final verse myself, while the congregation tags along several words behind and our organist gamely, and entirely unsuccessfully, tries to find out where we are up to; if the latter, then we all meekly sing the final verse a second time. I intend to become more tolerant of our team who assemble the parish magazine. Copies are generally put together with the pages in a random order, generally with one sheet upside down. One month, we will have 50 copies too few and those who fail to receive one behave as though their lives will be forever after entirely ruined, and the next month, we will have 50 copies too many, whereupon people complain about the wanton destruction of the Amazonian rainforest. I will be more tolerant of Lady Trotter who always arrives for our Sunday 8am Service 10 minutes late. While we are piously at prayer, she slams the north door, shakes her umbrella over the floor, wishes the sidesman a cheery “good morning”, drops her Service books, clumps up the aisle in her steel tipped brogues, removes her mackintosh, fumbles for a kneeler and volubly asks the entire congregation where we are up to in the Service. She then gives me a nod to tell me that I may proceed with divine worship. I intend to be more tolerant of my neighbour, an aggressive atheist who invariably decides that Mattins is the ideal time to use his chainsaw in the garden, that the annual garden fete is the right day for a bonfire and who sends me a monthly rant of several pages, taking issue with my letter in the magazine. I intend to … on reflection, perhaps I may decide on an alternative resolution for the New Year. Your loving uncle,
Eustace
REHEARSALS are well under way in Old Peking, (Thornton Community Centre), for Markfield and Thornton Theatre Group’s production of Aladdin and The Magic Lamp. Dance moves and singing voices are shaping up to rival those of Strictly Come Dancing and the X Factor! This promises to be another amazing production from MTTG with lots of family fun and laughter and something to look forward to when all of the festivities are over. To be staged from Tuesday 15th to Saturday 19th January 2019 at Thornton Community Centre at 7.30pm nightly with a matinee performance at 3.00pm on Saturday 19th January. As well as our wonderful cast members, the pantomime comes together with the help of so many other people both front of house and behind the scenes. This year we are in desperate need for willing hands to help on stage with changing sets and rolling backcloths for the duration of the rehearsal week and pantomime week. If you think that you may be able to offer your help please call Andy on 01530 469714. We’re a lovely crowd really and would welcome, and very much appreciate, any time that you may be able to offer. It would also give you a little insight into the Group and who knows, you may wish to join us and be a treading the boards at our next production. Don’t miss it! Tickets, (priced at 5.00, with no concessions) can be ordered from our Bookings officer Anne on 01530 469714. On our MTTG Facebook page and from any Group member. They are also on sale at Thornton’s Stepin Convenience Store at the corner of Church Lane, Thornton. We look forward to seeing you. In the meantime Markfield and Thornton Theatre Group would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Everything is easier said than done. Except for talking - that’s about the same.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Matthew is a Sporting Hero THE BOROUGH is celebrating the success of another one of its sporting unsung heroes. Matthew Chilvers was announced as the East Midlands BBC Sport Unsung Hero on East Midlands Today. He will now go forward to represent the East Midlands at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards at the Genting Arena in Birmingham on Sunday, 16 Matthew Chilvers is surprised on air by BBC December. East Midlands Today reporter Mark Shardlow It is the fifth time since 2012 with his award. that the regional winner has come from the Borough of Hinckley and Bosworth. In 2018 Denise Larrad was the Regional and National Unsung Hero award winner as were Jim and Sue Houghton of Sport in Desford in 2012 and disability swimming coach Jill Stidever from Markfield in 2014. The borough also produced East Midlands regional award winners and national finalists in 2013 with Leicestershire and Rutland Youth Sailing Club’s Colin Magee, then again in 2015 with Desford Lawn Tennis Club’s Harry Matty and again in 2016 with Hinckley Rugby Club’s John Tilly. Matthew, aged 22 who is currently studying for a Leisure HND at Loughborough College, was nominated for the award by his Desford Lawn Tennis Club coach, Alec Matty in recognition of his work as a role model for people with special needs over the last seven years. Matthew, who has an autism spectrum disorder, coaches several groups each week at Desford Lawn Tennis club including a group of people affected by cancer, an inclusive session and a session for people aged 50 and over. He also volunteers as a coach in special schools and in day care settings. Matthew is keen to continue offering people with special needs the opportunity to play tennis and improve their health, social contact and to help people to gain confidence. He said: “I get so much out of sport I want other to have the same opportunity. Just because you have special needs does not mean you cannot play sport and have fun.” Matthew’s coach, Alec Matty added: “This award is well deserved and I couldn’t be more happy and proud of him. Matt has shown us all that having autism need not hold you back. Matthew has built confidence and skills through coaching and it’s helping others too.” Executive Member for Culture and Sport at the Borough Council, Councillor Maureen Cook said: “Matthew is extremely well deserving of this award and I wish to warmly congratulate him. With support from his family Matthew has overcome his own difficulties and his commitment to give back to the community is heart-warming and appreciated by so many.”
I’ve deleted so much history on my computer, it doesn’t even know who the Romans were.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Groby Community Library News Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our readers Good Reads for Christmas Here’s a list of ten of the best recent additions to Groby Community Library’s stock, all of which have featured in The Sunday Times bestsellers. Adults
• DAVID BALDACCI The Fallen • GAIL HONEYMAN Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine • PETER JAMES Dead if You Don’t • SARAH MORGAN The Christmas Sisters • JAMES PATTERSON 17th Suspect • DANIELLE STEEL Fall from Grace • KATIE FLYNN Christmas at Tuppenny Corner • JOANNA TROLLOPE An Unsuitable Match • JO NESBO Macbeth • DAN BROWN Origin
Children
• DAVID WALLIAMS The Ice Monster • JEFF KINNEY The Meltdown • JACQUELINE WILSON My Mum Tracy Beaker • DAVID WALLIAMS The World’s Worst Children 3 • ANDY GRIFFITHS The 104-Storey Treehouse
Christmas Craft Afternoons OUR VERY own Queen of Crafts, Janet Bishop will be leading craft making on Tuesdays 4th, 11th and 19th December 2.30 - 4.30pm. Young and old welcome, no prior knowledge needed. You might be surprised at what you can make!
Time Out Café COME IN and taste our Christmas treats, Snowmen Biscuits, Mince Pies and festive cakes, especially baked for us by The Beaten Egg in Groby. We’re also serving lovely hot chocolate and spiced fruit teas just perfect for enjoying while you read.
Christmas Tree THANK YOU for the big Christmas tree from GE Druck. It looks lovely in the Library grounds.
Midlands Co-op Donation - an amazing £7,212! WE ARE pleased to announce that we have received in total £7,212 from the Midlands Co-operative, Laundon Way. Once again, we wish to thank Kenny Hardy and his team and of course all of you for choosing us as your chosen charity.
Library and Café Christmas Opening Hours PLEASE NOTE the Café stops serving 30 minutes before the Library closes. • Sat. 22nd Dec:10-00am -1.00pm (normal hours) • Mon. 24th Dec: Christmas Eve - Closed • Tues. 25th Dec: Christmas Day - Closed • Wed. 26th Dec: Boxing Day - Closed • Thurs. 27th Dec: 10-00am -1.00pm (normal hours) • Fri: 28th Dec: 2.00pm - 5.00pm (early closing) • Sat. 29th Dec: 10.00am -1.00pm (normal hours) • Mon. 31st Dec: New Year’s Eve - Closed • Tues. 1st Jan: New Year’s Day - Closed
Dr. Janet Harrison
Trustee Groby Community Library I still find each day too short for all the thoughts I want to think, all the walks I want to take, all the books I want to read, and all the friends I want to see.
John Burroughs
You know you’ve read a good book when you turn the last page and feel a little as if you have lost a friend.
Paul Sweeney
Julie’s Pet Care SERVICES
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Dog Walking CRB Checked As a dyslexic plumber, can I just say how disappointed I was by the Chelsea Shower Flow.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Community Initiative fund opens for applications
COMMUNITY groups in parishes across Hinckley and Bosworth are being encouraged to apply for their share of this year’s Parish and Community Initiative Fund. This year the fund has been increased to £275,000, offering community projects in the parished areas of the borough the chance to bid for grants of up to 50 per cent of the total project cost. These grants fund a wide variety of projects such as play areas, community buildings, new pathways, heritage trails, and sports facilities. The maximum grant available to each area ranges from £12,000 to £22,000 according to the parish’s population size, with a maximum grant of £12,000 available to individual projects in each parished area. Grants for 2019/20 will be provided on the following basis: •
Projects must be within a parished area of the borough
•
Maximum grant of £12,000 per project
•
Maximum of 50 per cent of total project costs funded
•
All works must be completed within the financial year
•
Projects must demonstrate that they meet the council’s corporate aims and that they are of community benefit Councillor Kevin Morrell, the Executive Member responsible for Rural Communities and Environment at the Borough Council, said: “As in previous years I would like to see these grants spread as wide as possible, with special emphasis on the smaller organisations as well as parish councils.” Applications are invited from now until the closing date of 8 February 2019. Application packs will automatically be sent to parish and town councils. Further copies are available by contacting the Green Spaces team on Tel. 01455 255707 or by emailing greenspaces@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk
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Early Christmas presents for LOROS Hospice families A LOCAL WOMAN is giving the families of LOROS patients an early Christmas present by providing baskets of pampering goodies and essential toiletries. After Kelly-Marie Williams’ father in law was taken into the Hospice suddenly last Christmas the family didn’t have time to pack. “All our focus was on Malcolm so when he was admitted to LOROS last Christmas and we ended up staying several days at his bed side, I suddenly realised I hadn’t even bought a toothbrush with me.” “The nurses were great and provided me with some basics but they were very busy caring for the patients. “ This year Kelly, 26, wanted to give something back for the care her father in law received and the kindness of the nurses. “I thought that it would be lovely to provide families with some goodies. Being able to have a hot shower and use some nice toiletries can help you feel you can cope when you’re tired and stressed.” So Kelly and her husband John asked their neighbours and friends for donations, and made up a dozen baskets filled with a combination of essentials, like toothbrushes and disposable razors, and luxurious treats to pamper patients’ families over the Christmas period. “My father in law came to LOROS at Christmas – a really busy time and one where it’s very easy to forget the little things. “Of course I realise nice shower gel is not vital, but it can make you feel a bit better.”
Why tidy teenagers live longer TEENAGERS who are tidy are more likely to live to old age, according to a recent 48-year study. The vast data analysis found that people who had been tidy, quiet, calm and empathetic as teenagers, had then tended to live well on into old age. On the other hand, the research also traced strong links between impulsive, messy, chaotic teenagers and those adults who died before their late 60s. The link may be explained by the fact that tidy teenagers usually go on to live healthier, ordered lives and are even less likely to divorce. All this will reduce the stress upon them, and therefore lessen the impact on their immune, hormonal and cardiovascular systems. The study was carried out at the University of Rochester in New York.
After Brexit, will I still be able to use my continental quilt?
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
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. Compiled and published in the Parish of Groby & Field Head. Printed in Ellistown by Norwood Press. The Spotlight is a monthly compilation of articles, press releases, events, general items of interest and news items submitted to us by local residents, groups, associations, sports clubs and local authorities. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Spotlight Production Team. The inclusion of any group or organisation in this publication does not necessarily imply a recommendation of its aims, methods or policies. Groby & Field Head Spotlight cannot be held responsible for the information disclosed by advertisements, all of which are accepted in good faith. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission. Groby & Field Head Spotlight reserves the right to amend, shorten or refuse to publish articles and/or advertisements submitted for publication. All contents © Groby & Field Head Spotlight. None of the articles contained in this magazine are to be reproduced in any way without first obtaining written consent from Groby & Field Head Spotlight.
NEXT ISSUE OUT ON: 19th January 2019 DEADLINE: 5th Jan 2019
What’s been happening at Groby WI IT WAS A dull, rainy Saturday afternoon and about 20 members went to the Village Hall for a glass fusion workshop with Ali Groschi and the obligatory coffee and biscuits! We could choose to do either a free standing Christmas tree or smaller versions to actually hang on to the Christmas tree, the glass templates having been already cut to size. It was fascinating to watch the different styles developing and I for one had a really enjoyable afternoon. Ali took our creations away at the end of the session to put into her kiln at home and we were delighted with the finished products when they appeared at our recent meeting. The styles were all very different but all most impressive! The beginning of our November meeting was our AGM presided over by Anne Allison. Diane Brown gave the Treasurer’s report and had produced a very informative financial statement for members which we all found extremely helpful. Ailsa Jelley gave the annual report from the committee and Angela Taylor addressed the meeting as our president. She gave us a brief taster of some of the speakers for next year and it promises to be be very varied and interesting! We then had the task of electing a new president and Angela was overwhelmingly voted in again. The second half of the meeting again had a ‘crafty’ theme! Carolyn Boulter demonstrated how to make patchwork Christmas trees and had prepared 55 individual kits for all our members and amazingly had the exact number needed! We had great fun creating the fabric layers for the trees, sticking knitting needles through the middle of each layer before threading the layers, largest first, on to a wooden skewer. The final stage was to stick the tree into a small ‘pot’ and attach a star on the top but the end result was brilliant as you can see from the photograph (which, incidentally, also shows my finished glass fusion
Members Making Christmas Trees tree at the back)! On my table, we decided that this is what children must feel like when they take craft work home from school and say ‘look what I made today’! Enid Watson and Edna Maddocks are co-ordinating decorating the WI Christmas tree for the annual Christmas tree
House. There is a rota so that an arrangement is always on show and we all agree that Cis has done an amazing job. In the busy run up to Christmas, Diane has arranged three theatre trips to see Les Miserable and White Christmas at Curve and Treasure Island at the Haymarket
festival in Groby Church and again members could collect ‘kits’ to produce decorations, the theme this year being ‘Colours’, so do come along and have a look at the amazing selection of decorated trees produced by the various groups in the village. The last photograph is of a beautiful flower decoration which was done by Cis Cockett for WI theatre. We have our WI Christmas party at the next meeting on 6th December with food, drink, a raffle and entertainment, a brilliant start to the festive season. It was also decided to carry on with the tradition of donating money to a charity in lieu of sending Christmas cards within the group and the chosen charity this year is Rainbows.
Ruth Rolinson
I am at my most photogenic when the pictures are of somebody else.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
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Martinshaw School News from Owen Lawrence Enrich Student Council Meeting ON MONDAY 5th of November 2018, we went to Lady Jane Grey School for a joint local school council meeting. More than 25 children took part in the event. The head teacher of Lady Jane Grey put us into groups where we worked with other schools to discuss local issues and to plan ways forward. The first task we did was to think of ideas of how we could work together as a collaborative group. We came up with suggestions including having a bake off based around topics we were learning and maybe having a dance off. Our second task was to vote on the ideas and come to an agreement. We enjoyed our time at the meeting and are looking forward to working together as a community of schools on a number of events. Reporter :- Faine Year 6
Martinshaw Remembers AS THIS YEAR was the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War (The Great War), the school made an extra special effort to be part of our nation’s Act of Remembrance. Staff and all pupils embraced this momentous occasion by decorating the entrance to the school with poppies, each class making them in a different way and with different material. A number of black coloured silhouettes of silent soldiers were produced and the names of all the 39 people from our village killed during both world wars were fixed to them. Pupils from years 5 and 6 wrote poetry and short stories which were placed alongside the poppies in such a way that anyone coming into the school or passing along the corridors would be able to read them. On Friday 9th November Reverend Ed conducted the Remembrance assembly, giving a short history of some of the people from our village who had lost their lives and, along with a two minute silence, brought home to the students the sacrifices that had been made by people who had lived in our village. We will remember them.
Children in Need THE SCHOOL this year decided that Children in Need would be celebrated by the whole school, staff and pupils spending the day in their pyjamas. To be honest, I reckon it was just an excuse to roll out of bed, straight into the car and then to work. Anyway, it didn’t interfere with teaching and learning one bit but everyone enjoyed it and funds were raised for this wonderful cause.
Open Church at Christmas
Don’t forget to send us your news!
Church at Christmas. from ON Open 22ND DECEMBER, 2pm to 4pm, the Parish On 22nd December, from 2pm to 4pm, the Parish Church in Groby will be open for a time of quiet. It will be an opportunity for those who have lost loved Church in Groby will be ones recently to remember them at this special time of year. open for a time of quiet. It During the afternoon, there will be an opportunity to place cards with prayers or will be an opportunity for loving words on a Tree of Remembrance and to light a candle in their memory. who have While you arethose there, if you find that you would likelost to speak loved to someone about how you feel, members of the Church’s Ministry Team will also be available, if asked, recently to remember ready to lend aones listening ear. them atplease this special time If you are around at that time, do drop in. Tea and biscuits will beof provided! Keith Wignall,year.
0116 2311439 Lay Minister, St Philip and St James Church, Groby
Pig Heart Boy YEARS 5 AND 6 have been studying the classic children’s novel by Marjorie Blackman called ‘Pig Heart Boy’. The story concerns a 13 year old boy, Cameron, who is thrust into the spotlight when a journalist writes about the pig-heart transplant he has received. So what better way to make this slightly controversial story come to life than produce real pig hearts for the students to examine. Two were purchase from our local butcher who partly dissected them and then the students, under supervision, were allowed to examine the various valves and chambers of this most important of organs. Every student was able to examine the heart and then, having handled the real thing, were able to produce diagrams and drawings of the various parts.
During the afternoon, there will be an opportunity to place cards with prayers or loving words on a Tree of Remembrance and to light a candle in their memory. While you are there, if you find that you would like to speak to someone about how you feel, members of the Church’s Ministry Team will also be available, if asked, ready to lend a listening ear. If you are around at that time, please do drop in. Tea and biscuits will be provided!
Keith Wignall,
0116 231 1439 Lay Minister, St Philip and St James Church, Groby
If I’m ever stuck on a respirator or life support system, I definitely want to be unplugged. But not until I’m down to a size 8. Henriette Mantel
A true pessimist will look at a glass filled to the top and say the glass is too small.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Borough Councillors’ Report from Martin & Ted Klondyke Activity during October, November 2018 You may well have noticed increased activity in the comings and goings by trucks to the Klondyke recently (October, November 2018). Significant lorry loads of soil and hardcore have been imported to the front part of the site nearest the road. This material has allegedly come from the construction of a car park at Glenfield Hospital. I called a meeting of the Borough Council to discuss this with representation from interested parties also being present. Officers of the Borough Council have been out to the site as well as Environmental Agency officers. I am not in a position to update you on their findings at this time but will report this in the January edition of the Spotlight. Just as I write the activities have stopped and the signs directing trucks to the Klondyke entrance have been removed. As always if you see anything suspicious going on at the Klondyke please report it to me Cllr Cartwright, the Parish or Borough Council.
Parish Poll – Klondyke Steering Group I previously reported to you that a steering group has been set up to progress the wishes of Groby residents by a clear vote in the Parish Poll by forming a steering group with myself (Cllr Cartwright) as Chairman. Representatives also include MP Edward Argar, Ozzy O’Shea (County Councillor for Groby) Groby Parish Council, Groby Juniors football club and residents representing the community view. So what has happened since The Steering Group as a whole last met? Since we last met as a group in January 2018, residents in Groby who voted unanimously for the Borough Council to CPO (Compulsory Purchase Order) the Klondyke site and turn it into a destination fit for its planning purpose have seen only further issues present themselves on the site.
Martin Cartwright Call: 0116 287 4500 Mobile: 078 50 70 70 50 E-mail: hbbc@appliancehome.co.uk Write: Maverick House, 10 Pine Tree Avenue Groby, LE6 0EQ To Groby residents viewing the site the overwhelming conclusion is the situation has significantly deteriorated. For the Borough Council’s part the Borough Council have incurred further costs on monitoring the site and enforcement, etc. However, the Steering Group have not been inactive, far from it. The various elements of the Steering Group, Community Representation, Groby Parish Council, Groby Juniors football club, Borough and County Councillor have been working on a solution to the issue not just for the Klondyke in isolation but for Groby Pool, Groby Pool Car Park and Groby Quarry. Going back to the resolutions agreed at the January 26th 2018 meeting one of which was the resolve for the Steering Group to report back to a future meeting whereby Cllr Mike Hall, Leader of Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council specifically requested that a proposal was made to him with regards to a way forward to resolve the Klondyke issues. The Steering Group met on Monday 26th November 2018 (excluding Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council) to pull together all the ideas as one proposal and are now in a position to present those comprehensive proposals to the Borough Council. The steering group will now present the proposals which are a
Community Hub on the site to all members of the Steering Group on Friday January 18th 2019. If the Klondyke and surrounding area issues are to be resolved this requires everybody to be as committed as possible including all the Steering Group members. The outcome of the next meeting is critical and without doubt will formulate the way forward to this most difficult of issues being the future of the Klondyke.
Council have taken the decision to sell their stake of the Hinckley development to help fund new major projects in the borough. Businesses in the Crescent are unaffected by the sale. Commenting on the decision, Council Leader, Cllr Mike Hall said “It has always been the council’s intention to dispose of the site to a more specialist management company and the timing is now right for us to do this so that we can fund new projects without the need to borrow. “Although the council receives a net income from the site which has helped to keep council tax for our residents amongst the lowest in the country, it is a diversion from delivering our day to day services, and we are now of the opinion that the council can step aside knowing that The Crescent will continue to deliver shopping, dining and leisure facilities for the residents of Hinckley and Bosworth.” Whilst the Conservative administration voted to attempt to sell on the asset of the premises in the Crescent, Cllr Hollick and I including all the other Liberal Democrat members voted against this.
Groby Parish Council
I am Here To Help You
Ted Hollick Call: 0116 287 5955 Mobile: 07962 373983 E-mail: ted.hollick@tesco.net Write: 7 Shaw Wood Close, Groby, LE6 0FY
Congratulations to Carol Lincoln who was co-opted to Groby Parish Council on Monday 26th November 2018.
Groby Nativity From 10th December the Groby Nativity project will have put together a Nativity scene on the balcony above Groby Chip Shop. G.E has kindly donated the lighting and installation of the infrastructure for this. If you haven’t already done so please go and have a look it’s a fantastic display with great effort from many people to bring it to life.
Borough Asset for Sale Part of a multi-million pound town centre mixed retail and leisure redevelopment scheme, The Crescent in Hinckley, is to be put on the open market. Hinckley & Bosworth Borough
Should you have any comments or problems you would like us to mention in our articles please get in touch. I would like to thank all those people in Groby who devote a massive amount of volunteering time and resources, without which the community would be far poorer. Thank you to Mike Wilkinson the owner and editor of the Spotlight for giving us the opportunity to keep you updated in our monthly column. Wishing you and your family a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Kind regards,
Martin Cartwright & Ted Hollick
Santa gets ready to swap Lapland for Leicester SANTA will be swapping Lapland for Leicester this Christmas – and he’s about to move into his cosy new home in the city centre. The finishing touches are now being made to his snow-topped grotto in the new Market Square, where dozens of Christmas trees
are helping to create an enchanting festive scene. Anyone who’s written a list for Santa will be able to hand their letter over in person – or they can post it in Santa’s special post office close by on Market Place. And of course every child who meets Santa will be given a small gift – free of charge.
Children wanting to see Santa are advised to wrap up warm, as there may be a queue – while mums and dads are reminded that the market and its food hall have got everything you need for a festive feast. Santa will be in the square from 10am to 6pm on Saturdays, 10am to 4pm on Sundays and from 11am
to 6pm from Monday to Friday. He will be in his grotto – which is surrounded by Christmas trees – every day until Saturday 23 December. Santa in the Square is a free Christmas experience for local children provided by Leicester City Council and run by Leicester Markets.
If I ever have an out-of-body experience, I’m going to try to come back to a different one.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
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Elizabeth Woodville News – December 2018 Virtual Reality brings learning to life! WE HAVE been incredibly privileged to embark on some amazing virtual journeys using the latest technology… virtual reality (VR)! The devices have been provided for pupils to use by Lenovo and PCS Business Systems and it has been simply amazing to see our pupils (and staff!) get to experience this cutting-edge technology in classrooms across the school! As you may have seen from our school’s Twitter account (@ewoodvilleps), our children have been using VR technology to visit some amazing places beyond where we could take them on a school trip. Pupils have directly explored the International Space Station and embarked on a safari in Africa from the comfort of their own classroom, which has been a transformational learning experience! Our Year 5 pupils were trained in how to lead a virtual tour and then proceeded to lead their own ‘Google Expeditions’ in other classes. Year 3 and 4 particularly enjoyed their virtual tour, which transported them to Ancient Greece complete with a visit to Mount Olympus, absolutely breathtaking!
0116 234 0548 We can take care of every detail, advise and help you on each and every step of the way. • Qualified Funeral Directors • Floral Tributes arranged • Hearse, Limousines and alternatives available • Monumental Service • Car parking available
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Warning Zone YEAR 6 PUPILS visited ‘Warning Zone’ a Life-Skills Centre this week in Leicester. Our pupils, as always, excelled themselves in their enthusiasm for learning and in their behaviour. The key message was ‘Safety’. Pupils had the opportunity to visit different ‘Zones’ at the centre where they were able to understand managing risks and consequences as they get older and become more independent. Topics included peer pressure, anti-social behaviour, grooming and cyber- bullying. All pupils were extremely mature in their approach to these topics and came away feeling they had improved their knowledge and understanding and recognised how they could be responsible for their own safety and make choices.
Talbott House, Leicester Road, Anstey, Leicester, Leicestershire LE7 7AT Email: talbotthouse@ansteyfunerals.com Website: www.ansteyfunerals.com
Modeshift Stars – Regional Champions EVERYONE at Elizabeth Woodville was delighted when we were crowned Modeshift Stars primary school champions of the East Midlands and the North West region. This is for our pupils’ commitment to active travel, road safety awareness and in encouraging more children and parents to walk, cycle or even scoot to school! Highlights from our work in recent years include our annual ‘walk to school for breakfast’ event and our incredible Junior Road Safety Officers (JRSOs) who lead competitions to design road safety banners to be displayed around school and at the school gates. Our JRSOs even patrol the front of the school with staff to ensure motorists are driving and parking safely. Year 6 pupils Iris and Callum represented the school at the awards show, which was held in the Kings Hall, Stoke-on-Trent on 26th November. Both pupils even took on starring roles in the show itself! Iris expertly played the role of ‘Mrs Jenkins’ as part of the introduction to the show, while Callum presented some of the many initiatives our school had launched to the listening audience. We all thoroughly enjoyed meeting other schools from across the region and sharing our active travel ideas. We now proceed to the national Modeshift Stars finals in London in March - wish us luck!
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SYKES JEWELLERS Tel - 0116 236 2510 8 Bradgate Road, Anstey, LE7 7AA www.sykesjewellers.co.uk
I’m sick of being the guy everyone comes to when they want the money I owe them.
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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
Groby Gardening Society News FOR THE NOVEMBER meeting, we welcomed Rod Weston, presenting his talk “Home Composting – Talking Rot”, based on many years of experience, trial and error. Rod is described as a Master Composter, who as an expert in his field volunteers in the local community attending fetes, open days, giving advice and presenting talks to gardening clubs, schools and individuals. He told us that children always seem interested in compost making, possibly because of the chance of playing in dirt and getting their hands filthy! Rod pointed out that in 2013 landfill waste contributed 4% of the UK’s greenhouse gases, in particular methane, much of which came from food waste and garden food, which could easily have been composted and recycled back onto gardens. The rising cost of landfill tax – from £7 per tonne in 1996, to £84 per tonne in 2016, shows that a huge cost is involved in throwing away food and garden waste. Statistics show that up to one-third of all household food – up to 100 kilos per person per year - is thrown away each year. Compare that to the 1% to 4% waste in the production process itself. At Christmas, many households buy more food than is needed (and more than can be eaten!) and a huge amount is thrown away. It’s been estimated that the equivalent of 263,000 turkeys are thrown away after Christmas, 740,000 portions of Christmas pudding, 7.5 million mince pies, 11 million roast potatoes and 17 million Brussels sprouts. During the year the top 5 foods thrown away are bread, potatoes, milk, ready meals and carbonated drinks. While there may be problems in such foods being offered to consumers in quantities that are unsuitable, these figures certainly give food for thought! The science of composting is fairly straightforward, comprising three stages of degradation of the raw material, conversion, and maturation of the finished product. The success of home composting is down to getting the right mix of materials. Rod advised that you should aim for a mix of green and brown compost materials, plus a bulking agent. Green materials are things such as grass cuttings, raw vegetable peelings, tea bags/coffee grounds (tear the bags open as they probably contain some nondegradable plastic which could be ingested by the worms in the bin), young green weeds (but not their seeds) soft green prunings, nettles, comfrey, and poultry/animal
manure (but not dog poo!). These are nitrogen-rich materials and will compost quickly. Brown materials include things such as carboard (especially corrugated cardboard and egg boxes), shredded waste paper, pet bedding, tough/woody hedge cuttings, old bedding plants, sawdust and (some) fallen leaves. These are carbon-rich materials and will rot slowly, being useful at introducing more air into the mixture. Composting is an aerobic process, which can fail if the mix of materials is wrong. Too much green material (especially too much grass) will produce a slimy, smelly mess because it has changed from an aerobic process to an anaerobic one. This can be corrected by adding more brown material, and by turning and mixing the contents of the bin. In very bad cases, the bin should be emptied, left to dry, and rebuilt. If too much brown material has been added, the compost process will not start, and can be corrected by adding more green material and mixing well. Useful bulking agents are sawdust, dry leaves, wood ash, washed and crushed egg shells and natural fibres such as wool or cotton. There are many compost activators available to buy, but Rod suggested these are mostly not necessary. They can cause the nitrogen levels to become too high, which in turn increases salt levels that can discourage the worms so vital to the composting process. There are many composting techniques; in addition to the classic home compost bin, a “green johanna” hot bin can be used (so called because the process takes place at a higher temperature and produces compost in as little as 6 weeks), a wormery or simply putting leaves into compostable bags, although this is a slow process, taking up to two years. Compost bins can be added to throughout the year, and the finished product rots down towards the bottom of the bin, and can be removed as needed. For especially woody material, the hegelkultur method can be adopted, but this is also a slow process. The compost bin should ideally be placed on soil, so that liquid nutrients from the process leach into the soil immediately. Position the bin either in partial shade, or a sunny spot. The hotter the mix gets, the quicker the process. When removing the compost from the bottom of the bin, it should be left to mature for a month or so, and new material can then be added to the top of the heap. Rod finished by addressing a few contentious points about composting: diseased plants should
not be put into the compost bin, but foliage from diseased tomato and potato plants can be. Yew, laurel and rhubarb leaves can all be safely composted, there is no need to throw these away, after all Nature has been successfully composting these ‘problem’ items for millions of years. Material that can’t be composted that is put in to council’s brown bin is processed on an industrial scale, and produces good quality peat-free compost which is much cheaper that the commercial products, and is used by the council itself on their flower beds. By composting food waste rather than throwing it away, it not only saves you money, it saves the council money by not having to collect it and dispose of it, reducing the overall carbon footprint of a household. Further details and advice on composting can be found on the website www.carryoncomposting. com, if you can’t find the answers to any composting problems there, you can email Rod for advice. The extraordinary meeting of the society scheduled for November 15th was cancelled, after a number of individuals offered to take over some of the many organisational roles that Eric currently carries out. However, the post of treasurer is still open (at the point of writing), and will need to be filled by the AGM in January. If you like the sound of what we get up to, why not come along to a meeting and try us out. Our monthly meetings are held at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of each month in the United Reformed Church rooms on Chapel Hill, Groby. You’ll be sure of a warm welcome, along with a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit! Details about membership and the events programme can be obtained from Eric Atherton. (Tel. No. 0116 287 6637) or Email e.atherton637@ btinternet.com The next meeting on Thursday December 6th will be the Society’s Christmas meal. The AGM will take place on January 10th, 2019. Please note that the Society’s first day trip of 2019 to see the Snowdrops at Easton Walled Garden near Grantham, including a visit to Gates’ Garden Centre at Cold Overton has been arranged for Saturday 23rd February 2019. A Roberts Travel Group 49-seater executive coach will pick-up from Groby Village Hall. The cost will be £34 per person. For further details and to book, please contact Beverley 07929 070309 or Jane 0116 2395350.
Merry Christmas to you all.
Keith Poole
Ten things God won’t ask you when you die God won’t ask what kind of car you drove; He’ll ask how many people you drove who didn’t have transportation. God won’t ask the square footage of your house, He’ll ask how many people you welcomed into your home. God won’t ask about the clothes you had in your closet, He’ll ask how many people you helped to clothe. God won’t ask which diet you were on; He’ll ask how many hungry people you helped to feed. God won’t ask what your highest salary was; He’ll ask if you compromised your character to obtain it. God won’t ask what your job title was; He’ll ask if you performed your job to the best of your ability. God won’t ask how many friends you had on Facebook; He’ll ask how many people to whom you were a friend. God won’t ask in what neighbourhood you lived; He’ll ask how you treated your neighbours. God won’t ask about the colour of your skin; He’ll ask about the content of your character. God won’t ask why it took you so long to seek Him; He’ll lovingly take you into his Kingdom, not leave you at the gates of Hell.
Brazen city spiders Who thinks up tests like this? It seems that scientists have been out collecting spiders from rural and urban areas all across Europe to test whether or not their natural fear of light is changing. They found that country spiders, regardless from which country, still prefer quiet, dark places. However, urban spiders are becoming brazen, and are happy to build their webs near bright artificial light. The study, published in the journal The Science of Nature, may be of some help to you next time you find a spider scuttling around your house: if it is daytime, at least you know your visiting spider is urbane!
I wish some conversations came with a fast-forward button.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
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OLDER PEOPLE IN MARKFIELD TRY CHRISTMAS WATERCOLOURS FOR THE FIRST TIME OLDER PEOPLE in Leicester tried their hand at Watercolours on a Christmas theme for the first time recently at the Mayflower Club at Markfield Community Centre.
Spotlight Small Ads • Two Piece Leather SETTEE SUITE, dark brown/almost black. One 2 seat settee with reclining seats, hardly used and excellent condition. One 3 seat settee with reclining seats, one of the seats needs attention and probable upholster. Approx 4 years old. Price:£100. • Electric BENCH GRINDER, ‘Ferm’, 150W power and double grinding stones 150mm x 16mm. Never used. Price: £20 • Free-Standing HAMMOCK with carry case. Foldaway steel frame and central hanging. Like new condition, ideal for garden or camping and very easy to put up. Price: £23. • Kawasaki Racing MOTORBIKE LEATHERS, Men’s Blue with white trim, 2 piece, 36” waist. Price: £25. • EXERCISE TRAMPETE, black with red padding. Good condition. £5 Tel: 0116 287 0375 (Groby) • PS3 GAMES FOR SALE: Most Wanted Need for Speed - £4 Kill Zone - £4 Saints Row 2 - £4 Assasins Creed - £4 Red Dead Redemption - £10 Grand Theft Auto IV - £10 Dangerous Hunts - £10 Moto GP - £15 Tel: 07427 202060 (Ratby) • 16 various AUDIO CASSETTES. Price: £5. • Also 9 Nora Roberts AUDIO CDS ON MP3. Price: £10. All good condition. Tel: 0116 287 0864 (Groby) • HOUSE OF PUZZLES JIGSAWS: Train now Standing (Adult)1000 pieces, New Unopened £8; (6+) 250 big pieces good condition £3 each. Steaming Along, Midsummer, Feed the Birds. Tel: 01530 245580 (Groby) • 8” COPPER WREATH RINGS, new, never used, 10 No. available for £3.50. Tel: Vicki on 01530 230389 (Bagworth)
• Set Roger Black EXERCISE BIKE. VGC Price: £50 • Set of WEIGHTS. Price: £10 • Set of GOLF CLUBS with extras. Price: £40 • 3 Fencing SWORDS (need cleaning). Offers invited. • Wii COMPUTER & games Price: £30 Tel: 07512 963016 (Groby) • Unused Citroen C4 16” Space Saver SPARE WHEEL. 5-stud, R16 125/90. Price: £70 - no offers. Tel: 01530 243574 (Groby) • Authentic Leicester City stuff: LE City Rucksack, as new, hardly used £12 LE City padded tablet case £3 2 x LE Kits – Brand new (labels on) child’s home (blue) and away (red) kit – s/s shirt; shorts; socks size 32/34 £12 each set LE Kit – worn twice - shirt; shorts; socks –red away kit – size 30/32 £7 LE kit – has been worn a few times but VGC – blue home kit (shirt with Fred on rear; shorts; socks) £5 LE Quilted jacket (small 9-10years) – VGC rarely worn £12 LE Zipped sports cardigan (small 9-10 years) VGC £8 LE Yellow Goal-keepers long sleeved shirt – VGC – size 26/28 £5 LE premier league t-shirt 2016 – aged 6 - £1 Or the lot for £45 Tel: 07843 290665 (Markfield)
Local artists, Sue Graham and Christine Johnson Hume, were on hand to provide expert guidance and support to members of the Mayflower Club who painted mistletoe and holly during the session. Staying active and social have been proven to be important to keeping fit and well in older age and this event was part of First Time for Everything, a programme designed by Royal Voluntary Service and Prudential to give older people in Leicestershire (and across the UK) an opportunity to try something new for free in their local community. Research by Royal Voluntary Service last year found that two thirds (65 per cent) of people aged 60 and over wanted to try a new activity, but three in ten (29 per cent) felt there weren’t enough local opportunities to do so. Keen to address this, the charity joined forces with Prudential to launch the First Time for Everything programme. Rachel Gray, Royal Voluntary Service activity co-ordinator for Leicestershire, says: “It’s been wonderful to see so many local people enjoying our First Time for Everything activities. Thanks to funding from Prudential, we have lots more exciting events coming up and hope that even more older people, their carers and families will come along. It’s never too late to try something for the first time.” The next Prudential First Time for Everything event in Leicestershire will be a fused glass session where people can make their own sun-catcher in Groby on 15th January 2019. Royal Voluntary Service relies on support from local volunteers to help run First Time for Everything events and other social activities and is looking for more volunteers to join its friendly, dedicated team. Rachel Gray says: “For anyone with a few hours to spare, volunteering is a great way to get involved in the local community. Our volunteers are a wonderful bunch of people – many are aged 60 and over - and they really enjoy the buzz they get from helping others.” For more information about Prudential First Time for Everything activities and other services for older people in Leicestershire, and to find out more about local volunteering opportunities, contact Royal Voluntary Service on 07795 450602, email rachel.gray@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk or visit https:// www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk/get-help/social-activities/social-events
• BEDSIDE CABINET (new), 3 shelves, 24” x 9” x 24”. £5 o.n.o. • Carpenter’s SPOKE SHAVE (new) - £2 • Carpenter’s BLOCK PLANE No 2 (new) - £3 • Plasplugs CABLE/PIPE FINDER (new) - £4 o.n.o. • Hand-held MAINS LIGHT - £2 • Mains EXTENSION LEAD - 6-way - (new) - £2 • Clearance of VARIOUS SMALL ITEMS - £1 or less - you choose. Tel 0116 287 5973 (Groby)
IF YOU HAVE any household items which you’d like to advertise FREE in the Spotlight, please SEND DETAILS by post or email - sorry, we can’t take them over the phone. Maximum EIGHT items please. Our postal address is Spotlight Small Ads, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT or you can email details to: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk PLEASE ENSURE that you put ‘Small Ads’ in the subject line, and INCLUDE YOUR FULL POSTAL ADDRESS (not for publication).
I’m pretty sure I could win the Olympic gold for going downhill.
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
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Singer/Songwriter Wordsearch
07/12/2018
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IF YOU can find 12 SINGER/SONGWRITERS in this issue’s Wordsearch puzzle, you could win yourself a meal and a drink. This month we are offering a tasty prize of: A Main Solutions for of Districts Free Course for Two, plus A Bottle House Wine at The FieldHead Hotel. Resources To go into the draw,What all you We haveOffer to do is findWho - and We markAre a line through -Teachers the names of 12Parents SINGER/ SONGWRITERS. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). Send your entry to: I WRITE THE SONGS, Groby & Field Head Spotlight, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Saturday 5th January 2019. Remember to include your name and address. The first all-correct entry drawn out of the hat L X M N C M Q will win the prize. Good luck! G F Y O T I R
B A C O E M L J S C N Y X I P
O D J K J S H O V Q A L O M F
B I I A N L N Y D T I X Z O N
N N E L N H O J A L R C D N L
G G B P C M E F K U B W C C S
C H A E L J A C K S O N V E S
B I L L Y J O E L D O X Y H O
Here are the 12 SINGER/SONGWRITERS you have to find:
BILLY JOEL • BOB DYLAN • BRIAN WILSON CAROLE KING • DOLLY PARTON • ED SHEERAN JOAN ARMATRADING • JOHN LENNON • JONI MITCHELL KATE BUSH • MICHAEL JACKSON • PAUL SIMON Name: ................................................................................................. Address: ................................................................................................ .................................................................Postcode: .............................
Last Month’s Wordsearch Winner The winner of last issue’s Wordsearch Competition was:
Evelyn Jelffs of Mallard Avenue, Groby
Congratulations! Your prize voucher will be sent to you soon.
News from Glenfield Millennium Green
BILLYJOEL BOBDYLAN BRIANWILSON CAROLEKING DOLLYPARTON THANK YOU to everyone who supported our last two fundEDSHEERAN raisers of the year. The visit by ‘Go Ukulele Crazy’ raised JOANARMATRADING £200 for our funds while the coffee morning on the 1st of JOHNLENNON December added £115. JONIMITCHELL Our last community event of the year will be our annual ‘Carols on the KATEBUSH Green’. This takes place at 4.00pm on Saturday December 22nd just MICHAELJACKSON inside the Millennium Green. Carols sheets are provided but a torch is PAULSIMON useful if you are unsure of the words. We are again fortunate to be able to welcome members of the Ratby Co-operative Youth Band. There will be a collection at the end for the band. This month we will have our final Trust meeting of the year when we begin to make plans for 2019. These will be Created approved at the by AGM Puzzlemaker in February. Like many small charities we are finding it harder to get the help we need to carry on with our work. We hope the Millennium Green is safe and will be available for the public for years to come, but without more support do some work on the Green and to raise a regular amount of money nothing is guaranteed. If you value the open space provided by the Green please come to the AGM and help us to plan for the future. The date will be published in the January edition of the Spotlight. It only remains for me to wish you ‘Happy Christmas and Best Wishes for the New Year’
at DiscoveryEducation.com
The Trustees of Glenfield Millennium Green
It’s good to share! If you enjoyed reading this issue, please pass it on to a friend or relative when you’ve finished with it. Thanks!
I went to a pet shop and put a sign saying ‘Chameleon’ next to an empty cage.
Stu
Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-DECEMBER 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk
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Reducing period poverty in schools A COMMUNITY project to ensure no girl misses school because she has her period has started in Leicester. The Red Box Project Leicester, which is part of the wider UK Red Box Project aims to reduce period poverty in schools.
The Red Box Project Leicester collects donations of sanitary products from members of the public, through donation points and collections organised locally by groups. It then takes those sanitary items, puts them into red plastic boxes and gives them to schools in the Leicester area, for the schools to pass on to their disadvantaged students. Boxes are topped up whenever this is needed so that there is always a supply of items. There are 8 schools currently supported with a red box in Leicester, including Brookvale Learning Campus in Groby. Overstretched teachers already take on the responsibility of helping pupils in need and schools keep small stocks of sanitary items for emergencies. The problem is that limited budgets mean they are usually able to hand out just a couple at a time. In Leicester, 4 in 10 children live in poverty and with many families having to rely on foodbanks to eat, they also struggle to access sanitary items. This project supports young women throughout their period with as many sanitary products as they need plus the added reassurance of a few left over to prevent a panic next month. The Red Box Project can also supply red boxes to appropriate settings such as local youth clubs and groups so that girls can access support in these settings too. The Red Box Project is entirely funded by community kindness and focused solely on supporting young women. Public donation points in Leicester include Sainsbury’s Fosse Park and the reception of BBC Radio Leicester (see the facebook page – www.facebook.com/ theredboxprojectleicester for further details). Please consider a donation to help provide more boxes to schools across the Leicester area and support this vital project.
on the
BEACH
including songs from
and other seaside hits
Rehearsals at Groby Club from 25th February Monday afternoon choir: 1.15pm - 3pm (Childcare facilities, lifts available) Monday evening choir: 8pm - 9.30pm Monday after-school children’s choir: 3.40pm - 4.40pm
Performances:
Saturday 29th June at 7.00pm & Sunday 30th June at 3.00pm www.grobysings.org for more information
Registered Charity no. 1180490
Help our HEDGEHOGS – or lose them forever THE UK has lost half of its hedgehog population since the year 2000. The Christian conservation charity, A Rocha UK, is out to stop the decline. ‘Project Hedgehog’ is one result, a joint initiative between A Rocha UK and the Lea Brook Valley Project. ‘Project Hedgehog’ provides purpose-built, cat-proof hedgehog boxes for private gardens. There are also detailed information leaflets on how to make gardens hedgehog-friendly. ‘We need to do this, for God, for nature and for people – and we need your help,’ says Andy Atkins, CEO of A Rocha UK. If you could help hedgehogs, visit: https://arocha.org.uk/
When things get me down, I take a deep breath and go to my happy place. The fridge.
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