Feb 2013 Groby Spotlight

Housing Survey Form Inside

An important survey of local housing need in Groby is taking place to update the previous survey, but this time it includes not only affordable need but open market home requirements too.

This becomes more relevant following the recent Bloors appeal dismissal.

Please would each household complete and return the first section of the questionnaire to give a flavour of life in the village.

Those who wish or need to change their housing circumstances in the next five years should complete and return the second section of the form.

This could include young people who need to set up their own homes; families living in difficult situations; older people who require single storey accommodation – this is not a complete list as people have many different reasons for needing to move.

Information received will be treated in the strictest confidence – analysed and retained by the Rural Housing Enabler – not seen by either Groby Parish Council or H&BBC. Please complete and return in the freepost envelope by end February.

Additional forms available from the Rural Housing Enabler, Richard.

01530 276546 or email: Richard. wndley@midlandsrh.org.uk No Form Inside? Please contact Groby Spotlight on 01530 244069.

Bloors appeal dismissed Norman Griffiths looks at the Inspector’s decision Those readers with the inclination and tenacity to read all the articles that have appeared in the Spotlight on the subject of planning and development over the last few years will no doubt be pleased to hear some of the comments of A J Davison.

He is the Inspector appointed by the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government to determine the appeal by Bloors against the decision of Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council to refuse planning permission for a housing development on land next to Groby cemetery.

The articles reflected the tortuous journey that both residents, councillors and Borough planning officers took that was designed to provide a blueprint for the future development of the area and the issue, probably considered by residents to be the most important one, of how many new dwellings should be added to Groby, and where should they be built.

The future shape of Groby No doubt many trees were cut down to provide the raw material for the profusion of documents that the process produced and the consultations that followed.

Although the journey is not yet complete at the end of the tunnel we see not the light but the final version of the Site Allocations and Generic Development Control Policies Development Plan Document (SAGDCP). This will tell us the future shape of Groby and the

Sheep grazing on the land next to Groby Cemetery rest of the Borough. The SAGDCP Preferred Options Report was duly published and was followed by a public consultation that ended in April 2009. A pre-submission draft is due to be published this August and it is hoped that it will be submitted to the Secretary of State early next year. The Bloors site was earmarked as a preferred option for housing development in the consultation draft, to the horror of most Groby residents. With the Government throwing all the cards relating to planning law in the air,

and the developer pressing to build on this site before the publication of the Council’s final views concerning site allocations, residents were starting to wonder whether the long protracted process, the time and the effort, had been worth it.

Mr Davison, the Inspector, had to approach his task without the baggage and emotion that residents carry, but his decision clearly indicates that resident’s expectations that no approval should be given in anticipation that the final site

Continued on page 3

Parish Council election results

Just over 14% of the Groby Ward electors voted in the Parish Council election on February 7th - a turnout comparable to the 2012 election of the Leicestershire Police Commissioner.

It is not often that rejected ballot papers could have changed the result of an election, but on this occasion they could have played a critical role if they had been valid. The candidate with most votes, Catherine Thompson, was comfortably ahead with 509 votes. The two other candidates had just one vote separating them, which resulted in the return of Leigh Quilter to the Parish Council with 403 votes. The 9 rejected papers could have increased Leigh’s lead or alternatively given the seat to the third candidate, Barry Jones.

Seven of the spoilt papers were unmarked or “wholly void for uncertainty,” one elector voted for all three candidates, and one paper had on it writing or a mark by which the voter could be identified.

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

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

Bloors appeal dismissed Continued from page 1

allocations document will select this site for development were not unreasonable. There should be no ‘prematurity’, no ‘jumping the gun.’

“The local community, both as individuals and through the Parish Councils, have been actively involved in the consultation process”, he said “It may be that this process will result in the appeal site being allocated for housing development. To grant planning permission at this time, however, would pre-empt a decision that should properly be made through the development plan process. It would render futile the work done by the Council and the contributions made by the local community, thereby reducing public confidence in the planning process and would be contrary to the spirit of paragraphs 12 and 17 of the 2012 National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).”

The words “render futile the work done by the Council and the contributions made by the local community, thereby reducing public confidence in the planning process” will be warmly received by those who wondered whether participating in the process had been productive or a complete waste of time.

The Hinckley and Bosworth Core Strategy, adopted in December 2009, envisages 9000 homes being built in the Borough between 2006 and 2026, at an average of 450 homes a year. The Parish of Groby has to provide sites for just 110 of these and as reported last month a five year supply of housing can become a critical factor in the win/lose equation. On this occasion the Inspector thought that the method used by the Borough is a recognised way of calculating housing supply.

“Given the inherent uncertainties in any prediction of future supply and the fact that it is a method that chimes with the approach in the Core Strategy, I consider that it does provide a reasonable basis for assessing future supply,” Mr Davison decided. “On that basis I conclude that the Council has shown that it has a five year supply of housing land.”

Green wedge issues The other contentious issue related to the Green Wedge. In 2011 a methodology for the review was agreed by the various Leicestershire Authorities for conducting the review of Green Wedges currently in progress. The Inspector noted that this site has been considered at the Local Plan Inquiry in 1996/97, the Inquiry into the 2009 Core Strategy and subsequently the 2011 appeal decision. The Inspectors all concluded that development would detract from the open character and appearance of the area.

When the review is completed it may be that the Green Wedge boundary in the area will change and the site will be allocated for housing, but “that is far from being a foregone conclusion,” he said. “While taking account of the possible future changes to the boundary of the Green Wedge in this area, I must consider the appeal proposal in the light of the development plan as it stands at present. I consider that the proposed development would detract from the character and appearance of the area and would conflict with Policy 9 of the Core Strategy. The Core Strategy is up to date, having been adopted in 2009, and I see no reason to disagree with the conclusion reached in the 2011 appeal decision.”

Thomas Herbert Smith’s Trust Fund The Fund was founded by the will of Thomas Herbert Smith, a Groby businessman, who died in 1961 leaving his estate in trust for his wife during her lifetime. After her death the trust was administered under the auspices of the District Church Council until 1988 when it became the registered charity it is today.

The Fund is administered by a body of five Trustees consisting of two Nominative Trustees, who are appointed for a period of four years and three Co-optative Trustees, who hold office for a period of five years. All of the Trustees are unpaid and serve voluntarily and do not claim any reimbursement for any incurred expenses.

The Fund consists of investments and bank deposits and the Trustees are obliged to maintain the original capital whilst the income generated is used to defray administration costs and applied for charitable purposes for the general benefit of the inhabitants of the Parish of Groby. These aims and objectives are interpreted to assist individuals and groups who are experiencing hardship in one or more of the following ways or in such other way as the Trustees think fit: (a) The relief of the aged and poor (b) The relief of distress and sickness (c) The provision and support with the object of improving the conditions of life for the said inhabitants in the interests of social welfare of facilities for recreation and other leisure time occupation (d) The provision and support of educational facilities The day-to-day administration of the Fund is undertaken by the Clerk to the Trustees to whom any correspondence from individuals or groups should be addressed regarding a possible application for assistance from the Fund. Applications are considered by the Trustees, who normally meet twice a year, in March and October.

The Clerk can be contacted at 6 Magnolia Close, Leicester, LE2 8PS. (Tel. 0116 283 5345).

What next?

For the moment the threat of development on this site has receded, but as space for 110 homes will have to be found residents will anxiously await the publication of the draft site allocation proposals later this year. In the meantime the company is considering its options, which may include making an application under Section 288 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 within 6 weeks of the decision. Section 288 provides for challenges where an aggrieved person wishes to obtain an order quashing the decision of a Planning Inspector or the Secretary of State on an appeal.

It can only relate to legal matters not planning judgement.

A mate of mine recently admitted to being addicted to brake fluid. When I quizzed him on it he reckoned he could stop any time.

I found my wife slumped over Hadrian’s Wall with an empty vodka bottle in her hand.

I think she might be a borderline alcoholic.

Groby WI Programme 2013 •

February 21st: Social Evening

•

March 21st: Canine Partners - Malcolm Wells

•

April 18th: Church View Nursery - Helen Osborne

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May 16th: Resolutions - Breast Care Presentation

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

•

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

•

August 15th: Laughter Yoga Leader - Marlies Flintham

•

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

•

October 17th: Helping Hedgehogs - Colleen Powel

I’ve never seen a tombstone that read: ‘Died from not forwarding that email to 10 people.’

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

Groby Hall - what Time Team did not tell you Norman Griffiths looks forward to the Village Society meeting When Time Team came to Groby there was a flurry of excitement through the village. The cold winds did not stop many visitors watching the progress of the excavations from the churchyard or, for the lucky ones, taking a tour.

It was a long wait until the programme was broadcast, but since then it has popped up on the television schedules a number of times.

For most residents it was a brief opportunity to learn a little more about the history of the village and then carry on with their lives and their other interests.

There are some, however, whose overwhelming interest is historical research, and former school teacher David Ramsey, is well known locally through his talks and publications as falling into that group.

We like to think that what we read and what we are told about events is ‘history,’ but the fact is that it’s a moving target and only what

can best be described as the main headlines of our past. The land beyond those headlines is the land of the dedicated enthusiast that carefully researches at grass roots level, develops new arguments and theories, and then boldly publishes their conclusions to generate debate amongst their peers. When a new consensus is formed our understanding and interpretation of the past is changed and history is rewritten.

Groby could be at that point when some of what we have believed about Elizabeth Woodville and the Groby Hall may be challenged, but tantalisingly we have to wait until David Ramsey addresses the Village Society later this month.

David found the Time Team visit useful, but in some ways limited.

“What was revealed in April 2010

by Time Team shed a great deal of light on the period 1499 to 1530 and in so doing has shaped a far better understanding for me of the actual sequence of events which took place during that 30 year period,” he said.

“The archaeology exposed in ‘The Paddock’ by Time Team was excellent but Phillipa Gregory’s

overview left me very, very disappointed in the reading of both the documentation and what was found on site. The Ferrers footings exposed by Time Team and referred to by Mick Aston as a little palace, revealed far more to my eyes than was noticed. After research, which I started immediately after Time Team left, I feel I am now in a position to say what happened to the Ferrers stonework when the present Groby Hall came into being and I can at last give a firm date for the occupation of Bradgate House within Bradgate Park.”

His research also reveals something that changes what we thought we knew about Elizabeth Woodville and more. “There are lots more revelations which I will divulge on the evening but the most eye brow raising fact for me was to find that...”

Oops. We seem to have lost the last part of that sentence. You’ll just have to go to the meeting to find out what it was that raised David’s eyebrows. “Groby Hall, What Time Team did not tell you, the Village Society meeting at 7.30 pm on Thursday, February 28th, will be well worth attending for those

with an interest in local history,” adds David. “I shall be particularly interested to meet any of my former pupils from the Elizabeth Woodville Primary School, for on this particular occasion they are not going to be able to say to me, we have heard it all before Mr Ramsey!”

Non members are welcome and the entrance fee of £2.00 includes tea/coffee and biscuits. The meeting starts at 7.30 pm.

I’ve recently become a Professor of Palindromes, so you can now call me Dr. Awkward.

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

Groby Players

Letter from Uncle Eustace

On the perils of moving More from city to country murders at Groby The Rectory Village Hall St. James the Least Tickets are now available for Groby Players production of ‘Secondary Cause of Death’ by Peter Gordon. To be performed in the Village Hall, Groby on 14th/15th/16th March.

The play features the hapless Inspector Pratt making a reappearance at Bagshot House now a hotel. The mysterious hotel guests appear to confuse the Inspector, and the bodies pile higher then ever!

To confuse things even further, Miss Maple’s sister appears, to stage a murder mystery evening! An entertaining, if chaotic evening is guaranteed!

Tickets will be on sale in the Village Hall Groby each Saturday morning, from February 2nd, between 10am-12midday, priced £6.00. Concessions only on Thursday 14th, £5.50p or Tel. 01162877373, or 07790861033 Tel/text. or e mail dot@dhollins.freeserve.co.uk

I went to the doctors and said, “I’m sick and tired of finishing crosswords so quickly!”

He said, “Try not to get two down sir.”

My dear Nephew Darren Those parishioners of yours who won millions on

the Lottery and moved into this parish have created quite a stir.

It was perhaps a little unwise of them to tell everyone the reason why they had become so wealthy. While most of our parishioners also do the Lottery, few would ever admit it in public. (Since your friends arrived, the entire PCC is buying ever more lottery tickets, but from the shop in the NEXT village, to try and keep it secret.)

However, your family still have much to learn about our country ways.

Buying the old Dower House was impressive; and spending a small fortune re-stocking the gardens was certainly commendable. But someone should have told them about cattle grids. It must have been quite a shock for them to wake up one morning and find the thirty sheep from the neighbouring field had wandered in for breakfast.

Their brand new purple Ferrari has certainly brightened up the country lanes around here. The noise it makes as it roars up behind you quite quickens the pulse. Mrs Beamish had been suffering with low blood pressure for months; she says she is quite cured now. The Colonel, who is all for the community supporting the church, then asked if the new-comers would drive the bishop around on the day he came to do his tour of the parish. The Colonel thought that an open-topped purple Ferrari would make a great bishop-mobile; and the new-comers were so kind to agree.

What a shame that they decided to accomplish the several miles of parish lanes in record time: the bishop barely even saw the several farmers that they nearly ran down. His new nickname in this parish is: The Purple Peril.

The new-comers have installed security lighting, which is understandable.

But now I wonder how much sleep they are getting, as the rabbits, foxes, and badgers who live in their grounds keep it flood-lit for much of the night.

Meanwhile, the Colonel is grumbling about the effect of light pollution on his young pheasants in the woods nearby.

But these little inconveniences apart, I am sure they will soon feel at home. I feel confident that by the third generation, they will be properly settled in.

Your loving uncle,

Eustace

Arts and crafts for dementia sufferers TWO new monthly art and craft sessions aimed at those suffering from dementia will be starting in Hinckley & Bosworth this spring.

The Dementia Art and Craft Cafes have been organised by Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland and will be held at the Pathways Centre in Hinckley and the Elohim Church in Barlestone.

Experienced volunteers will lead the sessions and the intention is to help dementia sufferers feel at ease in comfortable surroundings.

The sessions will involve a variety of basic art and crafts, including: card making, jewellery making, cutting and sticking crafts, memory boards, photo collage, plant pot painting and wind chime decorating .

The sessions will be held at: • The Pathways Centre Hinckley, Hinckley Baptist Church, Baptist Walk, Hinckley, LE10 1PR on every first and third Tuesday (starting on 19 March), from 10.30am to12noon; and • The Elohim Church Hub, Newbold Road, Barlestone, CV13 ODZ on the last Thursday of every month (starting on 28 March), from 10am to 11.30am.

Sessions will cost £3, with free tea, coffee and biscuits provided.

For more information contact Emma Hopkins on 01455 619519.

Send Your News Items To Us At: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

The 21st century, when deleting history is more important than making it.

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

Appeal for homes: Redgate’s cute felines are looking for new families The cats at Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary - (situated on the A511 between Markfield and Coalville, just past Billa Barra Lane) - are excitedly looking forward to your visit.

All of our cats - aged between 1 and 15 years - would love to become part of a real family again, in a “forever” home.

Could you adopt one and offer a cosy, loving future? They will certainly give back as much as you give them. A perfect start to the New year all round!

There are about 25 cats at Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary at the moment and just a few are pictured here, although there are different combinations of photos on the website every few days – so keep an eye open!

Occasionally we have kittens to re-home.

Website (cats): http:// redgatefarmanimalsanctuary. co.uk/cats.html Please don’t be put off offering a home to an older cat: these days, with improved food and care, cats can live to an age of 19–25 years, so even those now aged 14, 15 or 16 still have a very worthwhile future. The older cats usually have wonderful temperaments and make excellent companions. (*And remember that the re-homing fee takes an animal’s age into account).

Female cats for re-homing

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.

Tilly - aged 12 years

Dinky - aged 15 years

Compiled and published in the Parish of Groby & Field Head.

Printed in Ellistown by Norwood Press.

Willow - aged 4 years

Jessica (Jess) - aged 3 years

Male cats for re-homing

Foster homes also required We also currently have a number of older or frail feline residents who need daily medication. They are in real need of foster homes. Can you help? Their care is easy to maintain, but they cannot move into the main catteries with all the other cats as this does not aid their general well-being. In return for your offering the older cat a loving home, good food, fuss and warmth; the Sanctuary will provide you with the specific medication – from our vet - for the foster cat’s individual needs.

Please contact the Sanctuary manager to chat about fostering on: 01530 243 925 Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary is open every day of the year (except Christmas Day) from 10:00am till 4:00pm. Entrance is FREE. There is limited parking inside, but there is also a long lay-by, just past the entrance, and some parking on nearby Billa Barra Lane. Postcode: LE67 9PW Phone: 01530 243 925 Email: redgate@mail.org

Groby & Field Head Spotlight

Daisy - aged 4 years

Roderick - aged 11 years

Snowy - aged 10 years Billy - aged 12 years

The Spotlight is a monthly compilation of articles, press releases, events, general items of interest and news items submitted to us by local residents, groups, associations, sports clubs and local authorities.

The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Spotlight Production Team. The inclusion of any group or organisation in this publication does not necessarily imply a recommendation of its aims, methods or policies.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight cannot be held responsible for the information disclosed by advertisements, all of which are accepted in good faith.

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight reserves the right to amend, shorten or refuse to publish articles and/or advertisements submitted for publication.

All contents © Groby & Field Head Spotlight.

None of the articles contained in this magazine are to be reproduced in any way without first obtaining written consent from Groby & Field Head Spotlight.

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

Groby Gardening Society News Annual General Meeting This meeting was held on January 10th and a pleasingly large group of members attended, despite a very poor night, weatherwise.

The proceedings started with a welcoming hot drink and biscuits whilst a display of photographs from previous society events was shown via our projector.

After reports from the Chairman and Treasurer, the meeting unanimously elected all the incumbent officers to serve in2013. For personal reasons, Di Marinari stepped down from the committee and she was thanked for her previous support in this role. A welcome addition to the committee was Jane Marston who had also undertaken to shadow Eric in his role as Show Secretary. As part of his report, Alvar informed the meeting about the full programme of events for this coming year. Included in the regular meetings slot is an “Any Questions” session where local “experts” will light-heartedly try to answer pertinent questions. Our Christmas meeting will take place on December 12th , when as well as our wonderful meal, locally-sourced entertainment will be provided! The full programme will be available for distribution at the February meeting. It was decided, that after many years of being fixed at £6, the subscription per person per year will rise to £10.

This is mainly to off-set ever rising costs of speakers, but still represents amazing value when compared to subscriptions paid to comparable organisations. It was also thought desirable to charge visitors a £2 fee which would be redeemable ,via the subscription, should they decide to join the Society. The annual plant sale will take place on Saturday May 18th and members are gently reminded that its success depends upon the number and quality of donated plants. Members will realise the importance of some degree of planning to meet this demand.

Outings for 2013 Our day trip this year will be a double-header as we visit The Cotswold Garden Flower Nursery and the go on to Coughton Court, famous for its wonderful gardens and for its involvement in the GunPowder Plot of 1605. Our morning refreshment break will be at the flower nursery.

The two day trip will include a visit to The Great Yorkshire Show, an overnight stay at The Crowne Plaza hotel in Leeds and then on to Brodsworth House and Gardens. More details will be available for the February meeting, but signing up has already begun for this popular excursion.

In August we make an evening trip to a private garden in Saddington, where light refrshments will be available.

Old Times A copy of “The Groby Flyer”, dated 21st September 1985, records an earlier successful year for the Society.

During that year notable winners at the show included Mr H. Callis, Mr L. Jarrom and Mr C. Gibson. Another summer of wet weather was reported by the secretary, Richard Gamble, and Radio Leicester were due to visit in 1986. Interestingly, one of our 2013 speakers gave a talk on September 9th 1985. This was Bob Taylor who will be known to many. Other features included:• The purchase of the Village Hall from L.C.C. was proceeding well • South Charnwood School celebrated its Golden Jubilee • Ratby Band won another gold medal • Residents had raised over £12000 towards the purchase of Martinshaw Wood • The Groby PYO fruit farm was in full swing • N.D. Linford reported on the activities of The W.I. • A street theatre by Mission Groby was held. This was an event organised by the combined Christian community of the village, although many visitors from neighbouring villagers attended.

Interested in historical research?

Heritage Group Needs You!

Groby Heritage Group (GHG) started after Millenium Year, to promote awareness and encourage further research into Groby’s history, its built heritage and natural environment.

Over the years we have done lots, putting on exhibitions and holding regular monthly meetings on topics related to Groby’s history and wildlife.

We have a large collection of copies of photographs of old Groby and its inhabitants, continuing into the 21st century. We regularly display photographs and old maps in the display frames in Groby Village Hall. We have books about Groby and some of our records have been put onto CDs. And we have on video, a guided tour of Groby Hall just before the Burrows moved out about 7 years ago, with a commentary by Kate Burrows.

Our aim was always to encourage further research, to build on the decades of work done under the aegis of Groby Village Society, which is recorded in the Groby Book.

However, recently, our GHG Committee has no longer felt able to hold monthly talks and no GHG members are currently doing any active research, although there is still much to do. The internet makes this easier, both to find information and to share it. We would very much like to see the work of the Village Society and GHG continued but we need more support.

The committee is currently losing energy. I know there is interest in our history as I have recently heard from 2 keen researchers into Groby’s history, one in Australia! We never meant GHG to be a formal, regular meeting-based organisation but the support available when we set up, meant that then we had to have monthly meetings. I would like to see GHG revitalised by younger researchers, perhaps newly-retired or much younger, probably using the internet to keep in contact with probably only one or two meetings a year, to share our progress in local research.

Please contact me if this interests you, as soon as you can. Should you need a few ideas as to what areas to research, I can help. I am the editor (and the daughter of the original editor, in the 1970s) of the Groby book: its 30 chapters need bringing up to-date before it can be printed. I have contributed my school days in the 1950s in what is now Groby Village Hall.

Or how about Groby’s railway and quarries? - our granite and slate is built into St Pancras station. And there is so much family history and house history to do, too.So there are lots of exciting projects available.

I hope many of you will want to be involved.

Alison Coates Email: alisonc@stayfree.co.uk Chairman, Groby Heritage Group February 2013

Forthcoming events March 14th - “Weeds and Aliens” by Eric Webster Our monthly meetings are held at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of the month, usually in the United Reformed Church rooms on Chapel Hill.

Details about membership and the events programme can be obtained from Alvar Johnson. (Tel. No. 0116 2877870) or E mail alvar3@talktalk.net

Alvar Johnson I saw a Dutch guy with shoes that had built-in satnav - blooming clever clogs.

10

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

Groby Allotments Society News - from Richard Cox

Top of the class allotment – the winter effect Looking out over the Ratby Road allotments I am reminded that agricultural tasks are a little bit like having kids – the fruit and veg needs a lot of nurture, encouragement and talking to, as well as having a good grounding – but what strikes me right now is that, like kids at school, a covering of snow makes them all uniform.

At this time of the year all allotments are the same, well most of them! No matter how well tended, dug over and prepared the plot has been in those long past autumn days, a good covering of snow makes them all look absolutely pristine – even mine, and I admit to not having been an assiduous gardener recently.

So what can be done during the short, cold days and long freezing nights? The best advice I have heard is that this is the time to sit back, preferably by an open fire, and pick up all those books on how to grow stuff in an allotment. It is probably a fact that nobody will have the time nor the temperament to undertake such a sedentary task at other times of the year.

However, be wary of some of the advice. I am told that the winter months are ideal for carrying out servicing and maintenance of mechanical equipment, such as rotovators, and also making sure that all implements are cleaned, oiled and ready for the sun to poke its head out. That is presupposing that plot holders are prepared to leave the warm fireside, don as many layers of clothing to make them look like Michelin tyre men and women, and tramp across the frozen ground. Me? I’ll think about it, and that’s enough.

There are, though, hardy, dedicated gardeners and near professional horticulturalists, who have been out there in all temperatures (take a bow Ben, Nigel and Paul among a few others!). These are the plot holders who, come the first warm rays of spring, will be looking at healthy, green over-wintered crops that have sheltered under the blanket of snow, with roots dug deep beneath the frosty top soil.

Among the useful tips is the idea that ‘housekeeping’ will make tasks at other times of the year so much more effective and productive.

These include jobs like washing the greenhouse and cold frame inside

With the leeks frozen into the ground there is no point in trying the gate lock! Richard is right, snow is a great leveller and out, and also all the seeds trays, modules and pots.

If the snow is not too bad and the ground not frozen, then winter is also the time for tidying up the vegetable beds, pulling out old crops and removing the debris that seems to have accumulated over the year. I have never understood where it comes from: I don’t grow plastic bags, and those stakes ... I was sure I’d put them away neatly months ago.

Then there is the continuing job of soil preparation – digging and spreading manure. I was told that manure can be dug in or spread on top so that the nutrients are washed through by natural rain. Being lazy, I like the idea of nature taking a job off my hands, so I’ll not be digging the manure in. One piece of advice did amuse me. It was suggested that digging is not a job for when the ground is wet! So in 2012 all forks and spades should have been left in the shed, cleaned and oiled, ready for this year!

The advice also says that, if there is a break in the ravages of winter, and, in fairness, we rarely get snow for more than a few days and temperatures are mostly above zero, winter is the best time for major construction jobs, such as putting up sheds, erecting frames and building those low cost, lean-to, plastic greenhouse-like structures. This is also the time of year to install or repair the guttering on the shed and put in rainwatergathering tubs, because we all know that in 2013 there will be a heat wave.

However, for those of us who are averse to cold weather and driving winds, as well as spoiling the attractiveness of lying snow with muddy footprints, I will follow the advice I like most. Stay home, stay dry and warm, and plan ahead, building those dreams of towering Brussels sprouts, the ripest and juiciest strawberries and raspberries, and peas so sweet that the difficulty will be taking them home rather than eating them straight out of the pod!

Cheers,

Richard Cox

After being escorted out of Kings Cross station with concussion, I’m beginning to think my Hogwarts acceptance letter was a hoax.

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

Did you hear about the lonely pyromaniac? He’s still looking for the perfect match.

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

LETTERS Lowering the tone

Last month, I thought I would take advantage of installing free solar panels at my house on Chapel Hill in Groby.

After a call to Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council to see if I needed any sort of planning permission, I was told no I didn’t but as my house was in the conservation area, I couldn’t fit them to the south west facing part of the roof as it faced towards the road and people could see them and they lowered the tone of the area. I fully accepted the explanation and I am not fitting the panels.

However, it got me thinking. What else lowers the tone of the area? I shall elaborate. During a cold and windy walk this week, my wife and I found ourselves up near the old scout hut and Martinshaw School and while walking past the top car park at Druck, we noticed MANY parking spaces unused. It was 3-ish, so not clocking off time. (I’m sure you are all clever enough to see where this is going). Why then, are there many cars parked on Chapel Hill and Crane Ley Road, whose owners are working up at Druck, when there are spaces on site?

What lowers the tone of our conservation area more than solar panels? You guessed it, parked or abandoned more like, CARS! H.B.B.C., when are the parking restrictions coming into effect?

Shaun Barton, Chapel Hill, Groby

Fundraising for LOROS in memory of mum We are a family from Glenfield and surrounding areas doing a charity bike ride from London to Paris on 3rd of July in aid of LOROS. This has come about as in July last year my mum passed away suddenly after being diagnosed with stomach cancer. LOROS were amazing and we feel that for everything that they did to help my mum and us as a family we need to give something back.

There are currently 10 of us doing the ride and each need to raise £1,400 to enable us to participate. Whilst sponsorship is going well we seem to be struggling a little so we have organised a fund raising evening at Notts Oddfellows club, Humberstone Gate, Leicester on 9th March 2013 - 7.30pm till late. It’s £5.00 for a ticket and we are featuring live band called The Freeze.

There will also be a disco and a raffle held on the night with top prize of £250.

We have a Just Giving page under my dads name Paul Preston and its in memory of Susan Preston, ( https://original.justgiving.com/remember/48391/ Susan-Preston) . Alternatively, anyone interesting in making a donation, or buying a ticket for the fundraising event in March can contact me by email at prestonemma@yahoo.com or by phone on 07867 499776.

Emma Preston, Glenfield

Groby Club Senior Citizens’ Christmas Party A BIG THANK YOU to everyone involved in making this such an enjoyable afternoon.

The meal and entertainment were excellent, and I am sure I speak on behalf of members in saying we had a lovely time, even Santa visited bringing gifts for all.

Well done!

Members 716/7

My mate was a victim of his own success. His trophy cabinet collapsed on him.

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

Job losses in Brant demolition proposals Norman Griffiths reads why Everards wants to close the Brant Inn Five full time and six part time jobs will be lost if a plan to demolish the Brant Inn is approved by Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council.

The site would be redeveloped for housing and would have 31 dwellings.

Twelve would fall in the affordable housing category and these would consist of four 2 bedroom, five 3 bedroom and three elderly person accommodation. The council boundary runs through the site, so it appears that about a third of the houses could be within the Blaby area.

Last year the Spotlight reported that the Brant Inn could be taken out of the Green Wedge classification and suggested that as a brownfield site some might find it more acceptable as a redevelopment site for housing, though this would have to be approved at another stage in the planning process.

What were we told then?

In April 2012 Erika Hardy, Head of Marketing at Everards said that “The pub is trading and our current licensees, who have been there for a few years, have a substantive agreement in place so it is business as usual.”

And landlord Daljit Ghai added that “My family has had the privilege of running the Brant for 6 years and I would like to reassure all customers that we will continue to trade for many more years to come and have no intentions otherwise.”

It is clear, however, that the future of the site was already under review.

The planning application documents submitted to Hinckley and Bosworth suggest that consideration of the possibility of redevelopment was well in hand at that time. A Noise Assessment Report was undertaken in November/December 2011, and in March 2012 both the archaeological assessment and draft ecological appraisal were completed. A Landscape and Visual Appraisal was also commissioned in March 2012.

So what are they saying now?

Both parties want readers to know that the Brant is still open and still welcoming its customers. “If the application is successful we will review The Brant Inn before considering a disposal of the site,” explained Erika Hardy earlier this month. “We are working closely with the current licensee who is fully informed and will continue to operate the pub for the immediate future.”

Daljit Ghai added “As freehold owners of the site Everards are entitled to submit a planning application to the Borough Council at any time.

However, I would like to re-iterate and reassure the residents of Groby, that no agreement has been made between ourselves and Everards Brewery at this time. If and when any agreement is made I will release a further statement.”

Why consider redevelopment?

The Brant Inn currently trades as a hotel with 10 en-suite letting bedrooms, restaurant and public house. Planning guidelines say that

I’ve fallen in love with another ventriloquist’s doll, but she’s already spoken for.

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

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PROPOSED DWELLINGS (UP TO 31 DWELLINGS @ 30 DPH)

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With the disadvantage of it’s location, and the current and prospective EXISTING RETAINED TREES economic situation, the brewery has had to look at the viability of the Brant PROPOSED TREES and how it fits into their commercial strategy and management of their PROPOSED STREET TREES pub portfolio. In 2012 the Bulls Head in Ratby was refurbished at a cost of HINCKLEY & BOSWORTH & BLABY DISTRICT BOUNDARY £275,00 and this year’s improvements at the Stamford Arms could cost as much as £350,000.

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decisions should guard against the unnecessary loss of valued facilities and services where they would reduce the community’s ability to meet its day to day needs. However ILLUSTRATIVE the breweryMASTERPLAN believes that the Brant Inn does not provide an essential day to day service for the community such as that provided by a local shop, and it would be likely to be used only occasionally as it is not a typical village local pub. The loss of this facility would not render the locality any less sustainable or reduce the community’s ability to meet its day to day needs, and they point out that there are five other public houses within about a 1.5k radius. The Gynsills, also has a Premier Lodge attached.

Despite a significant increase in the population within the catchment area of the Brant many things have changed since it s heyday, and none to the advantage of the business. Everards says that the smoking ban introduced in July 2007, high utility costs, cheap alcohol sold in supermarkets, coffee offers and changing social habits, especially amongst younger people, are transpiring against the traditional community pub. The leisure industry as a whole has been severely affected by the on-going economic downturn with industry reports suggesting up to 50 pubs a week are closing. Spending patterns have changed during this period and this has affected public houses across the board. Community public houses such as the Brant have been severely affected and it is likely that this trend will continue for the foreseeable future.

“The fixed costs, rates, utilities and staffing, associated with operating such large premises are very significant,” explains the company. “The property is under invested but in order to bring it up to a modern day standard and fit for purpose would require considerable investment, estimated at in excess of £300,000. The location of the site, the nature of its existing layout and the fact that it was conceived for another era make such investment unviable for both landlord and tenant.”

Before the arrival of the A46 Western bypass and the A50 interchange the Brant would have had the feel of a country pub, but now the brewery says the location is not ideal, away from the centre of the village. It has no main road frontage, and tucked away behind the properties on Overdale Avenue it is not visible or easily accessible to travelling customers, so the opportunity for passing trade is minimal.

It seems that he internal layout of the Brant Inn does not suit current design criteria for public houses, and structural elements within the property would make it difficult to alter. The property is generally dated and has large ancillary areas which result in higher running costs than the average public house. This has a detrimental impact on the viability of the business. And with regard to the hotel side of the business the bedroom accommodation is dated and lacks numbers to make it commercially sustainable.

“The present tenant purchased the leasehold interest in 2006 and continues to operate the site,” explain Everards in their planning application. “He is unable to invest in the business and whilst Everards Brewery continues to provide support in terms of business advice, retail marketing, personnel, rating etc the situation is untenable in the medium term. Without the substantial investment mentioned above, it is our opinion that no other operator will be able to successfully (and profitably) run the Brant Inn.” The brewery would normally expect to pay statutory compensation for the closure of the business.

Customers will regret the passing of the Brant but, the brewery points out, someHRETpubs are not considered viable for the future. The Company says that it pro-actively seeks alternative uses rather than allow properties to deteriorate and become a blight, a target for anti-social behaviour and a problem within localities/neighbourhoods. In this case residents may agree that, given the pressure on communities to find development sites, if it has to go then a small housing development may be the best outcome.

The plan is part of an outline planning application and at this stage is purely illustrative. masterplanning

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FPCR Environment and Design Ltd Lockington Hall Lockington Derby DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: mail@fpcr.co.uk w: www.fpcr.co.uk

The Parish Council view and where to find more information The Planning Committee at Groby Parish Council considered the application at its meeting on Wednesday 6th February 2013.

Although there were no objections to the location of the development, if an alternative use has to be found for the site, members still have continuing concerns about the pressure that any new development has on the village schools and health facilities. The new homes will fall in the catchment area of Martinshaw Primary School.

The details of the proposals can all be found on the Borough Council’s website and comments can be sent to the planning office or made online. If you miss the February 26th deadline you may still comment but don’t rely on the online facility being available after that date. The web address for comments is https://pa.hinckley-bosworth. gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=makeCo mment&keyVal=MF6NZQII7S000, but if you visit www.grobyonline.tk (or www.grobyonline.co.uk if in a public library) there is an easy link to the same page.

Our local band are so bad that, by popular demand, they have to smash up their instruments before the gig.

14

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

Strolling down Memory Lane!

When Phil Simons and John Hughes decided to spend a day revisiting the places they remembered from their childhood they probably never considered it would be of interest to others. But their trip down memory lane will strike a chord in the hearts of most people whose thoughts have turned to their childhood days. Fifty years ago when they met at school Groby was quite a different, smaller village, and their story will interest both the vast majority of readers who have moved to the new housing developments and those who knew Groby 50 years ago. Phil and John are still Leicestershire residents but no longer live in the village, though they have family ties here. They recall their Groby childhood with warmth and would be delighted to hear from others who were in the Class of 61 with them. “Phil and myself can identify most of our classmates but would like to challenge others to do the same,” said John. “If we get a good response to this challenge then we can publish a definitive list of names at a future time.” They can be contacted by email at jandm.hughes@ btinternet.com Norman Griffiths

Phil Symons recalls how he and his life long friend John Hughes turned the clock back in 2012 How many of us as fresh faced five year olds, on our very first day at school, look around the classroom and think ‘will any of these children be classed as ‘true’ friends fifty years from today’?

Well none of us of course, we are far too young and nervous to be thinking of anything other than ‘When can I go home?’, but about a year ago my great buddy, John Hughes, pointed out to me that it was fifty years ago that we both embarked on our path through education at the Groby Infants School on Leicester Road. Fifty years! Surely, we should commemorate that occasion, but how? We decided to take a literal stroll down memory lane, and if we could take in a few local hostelries along the way, then so much the better. This, interspersed with a few loosely related meanderings and babblings off piste, is my account of the 11th August 2012.

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After throwing together an approximate route that would start at my old family home in Groby and end up in Markfield, via John’s former abode at the Field Head, we decided it would be fitting to visit a couple of the teachers from our formative years. I had phoned ahead to ask Miss Mason from the Junior School at Martinshaw Lane and Mrs Brewer, our very first teacher at the Infants School, if they could spare us a few minutes to pore over some old school day memories. I’m so pleased now that we took them flowers, and not the traditional apple that was offered to gain teacher’s approval back in the 1960’s! The look on Miss Mason’s face when John thanked her for helping him to learn to swim at the old baths on the corner of Avenue Road and New Street in Coalville (those trips on the bus seemed like major excursions back then) was priceless. I reminded her that apart from later being her paperboy I have always loved Bach’s ‘Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring’, the

My mate was told by his doctor to do something that gets him out of the pub, so he took up smoking.

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

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piece she would play perfectly on the piano as we entered the school hall for morning assembly.

Next, armed with a grainy old black and white photograph of the class of 1961, it was on to visit Mrs Brewer. Not only could this remarkable lady put names to all twenty nine faces of that year’s intake, she could remember the names of our siblings also. Clichéd as it may sound, we recounted incidents and events from those days as if it were yesterday. It seems that not only was Mrs Brewer our teacher, she was also our nurse, as John recalled how she had tended to an eye injury he incurred and I remembered how she had come to my rescue after I had fallen into a dense patch of stinging nettles whilst trying to retrieve a football. A huge thanks to both ladies, not just for today but for all the tuition, guidance and care they gave us back then.

Back to school So now it was time to visit the school buildings, opposite the Post Office at the top of Leicester Road. Both schools, Infants and Juniors, built around 1873, stand side by side, the former now a private residence, the latter, the village hall. We would have to settle for photographs of the buildings’ exteriors. Or so we thought.

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The present day owners of the Infants school took time off from their gardening to invite us in to look around. No evidence now of the old wooden desks with built in ink wells. No blackboard, no Janet and John books. But this wonderful old building, a mini Hogwarts with its thick, solid stone walls and archways has retained its original majesty. No need these days of course to wear duffle coats and scarves indoors in the winter as we did in those pre-central heating days. I could remember exactly where I had sat in class in both of the rooms that once made up this wonderful old structure. What a bonus to be shown some old photographs of Christmas parties and class gatherings that had remained in the school all these years. A massive thanks to Pete and Ruth for kindly allowing us inside their home.

More photographs of both schools, then it’s across the road (without the help of the Lollipop Lady!) to the Post Office. No sign today of those magnificent old glass jars of sweets that used to adorn the front window. No pear drops, pineapple chunks or white chocolate mice. And long since gone is the old ‘penny box’ I’ll wager, where we would invest out coppers on Black Jacks, Fruit Salads, Sherbet Flying Saucers and Bazooka Joe gum. I never did save enough wrappers for that Swiss Army Knife!

Next month ... we hear about a first pint at the Stamford Arms, their football experiences, and watching the blacksmith shoeing the horses...

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

16

What a Woman Groby United Reformed Church Wants In A Man! LOOK OUT FOR THE 1 Handsome 2 Charming 3 Financially successful 4 A caring listener 5 Witty 6 In good shape 7 Dresses with style 8 Appreciates finer things 9 Full of thoughtful surprises 10 An imaginative, romantic lover

Revised List: age 40 1 Nice looking 2 Opens car doors, holds chairs 3 Has enough money for a nice dinner 4 Listens more than talks 5 Laughs at my jokes 6 Carries bags of groceries with ease 7 Owns at least one tie 8 Appreciates a good home cooked meal 9 Remembers birthdays and anniversaries

Revised List: age 50 1 Not too ugly 2 Doesn’t drive off until I’m in the car 3 Nods head when I’m talking 4 Usually remembers punch lines of jokes 5 Is in good enough shape to rearrange the furniture 6 Wears a shirt that covers his stomach 7 Knows not to buy champagne with screw top lids 8 Remembers to put the toilet seat down 9 Shaves most weekends

Revised List: age 60 1 Keeps hair in nose and ears trimmed 2 Doesn’t belch or scratch in public 3 Doesn’t nod off when I’m talking 4 Doesn’t retell the same joke too many times 5 Is in good enough shape to get off couch at weekends 6 Usually wears matching socks and fresh underwear 7 Remembers my name on occasion

Revised List: age 70 1 Doesn’t scare small children 2 Remembers where bathroom is 3 Only snores lightly when asleep 4 Is in good enough shape to stand up by himself 5 Usually wears some clothes 6 Remembers where he left his teeth 7 Remembers that it’s the weekend

Revised List: age 80 1 Breathing 2 Doesn’t miss the toilet!

FAIR TRADE HAMPERS!

In recent years, during FAIRTRADE Fortnight, Groby United Reformed Church (an accredited FAIRTRADE church) has encouraged their congregation to buy fairly traded products in the local stores. Both Budgens and the Co-op are shining examples, supporting producers in the developing countries.

On March 2nd church members will once again be in-store to show shoppers collages made by year 6 pupils from the local primary schools and encourage local folk to enter a ‘free’ competition, to try and win two FAIRTRADE grocery hampers, generously supplied by the stores.

With this event the church believes that they must help the poor through Fair Trade, but at the same time involve the community, and not least, it helps demonstrate the importance of local stores.

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The challenge of shoelaces How old were you when you first tied your own shoelaces? That happy achievement is probably lost in the mists of time, but it seems that nowadays as many as 45 per cent of children aged 5 to 13 can’t tie their own shoelaces. Those are the same kids of which 67 per cent can work a DVD player. A recent study has found that youngsters can log onto the internet, play computer games, use an iPhone or iPad, with greater ease than they can make a cup of tea or read a physical map on paper. 63 per cent have no idea of how to build a den in the garden, while 59 per cent cannot climb a tree. Ray Mears, the survival expert, despairs of them: “I can’t believe our young people are so ill-equipped with practical skills.”

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My girlfriend dumped me because she says it’s annoying how I relate everything to Batman. What a Joker.

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

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Support for voluntary and community support groups NEW arrangements are being made to support voluntary and community sector groups in Hinckley and Bosworth.

With the support of the Borough Council, Next Generation and Community Action Hinckley & Bosworth will be working together to help establish a Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) Forum, and a VCS Commissioning Board for the borough.

The aim is to bring together VCS groups so that they can make the most effective use of resources, expertise and assets at a time when funding is continuing to decline. This has resulted in voluntary and community sector organisations often competing for the same pot of money and struggling to survive.

The Forum will help the Commissioning Board make its decisions about the commissioning of services on behalf of the sector, for any funding allocated to the Board.

The existing Next Generation building in Castle Street will become the VCS Hub, offering a central location to accommodate outreach workers, offer facilities for meetings and training. Indeed, Next Generation has already extended this provision to a number of organisations and agencies.

The VCS Hub will complement the Borough Council’s new statutory agency Hub with a key referral/sign posting service operating between the two.

Councillor David Bill, the council’s Deputy Leader, said: “Supporting and enabling a vibrant voluntary and community sector is of paramount importance to this borough as these organisations are often providing vital support to our community.

“We need to value this work by providing effective support to organisations who want to work in a voluntary capacity, but also where appropriate commission services, recognising they are often best placed to deliver provision and provide excellent value for money.”

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New charity boss plans to get rid of his older shop staff ...

The Latimer Players are pleased to announce that their Spring production will be ‘VOLUNTEERS’ by Hilary Mackelden.

The new CEO of a Charity is trying to bring a younger image to its shops by ‘losing’ all the older volunteers. Brenda, the stoic manageress, fights to keep her ‘family’ of half-blind Denny and neurotic spinster Prue.

The mix is enriched by Leanne, the rebellious teenager, sent to the shop to do Community service. The area manager, naive Claire, falls for the new CEO and his progressive ways without thinking about the consequences. But John, the CEO, has to hope the two ‘skeletons’ in his cupboard don’t materialise to jeopardise the future. And the radio announces that a ’flasher’ is in the area!

It will be staged at The Memorial Hall, Anstey Lane, Thurcaston on Thursday April 25th, Friday April 26th and Saturday April 27th at 7:30 each evening.

Tickets are all £6.50 and available by telephone on 0116 2362692.

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At the barber’s today, I asked to have my hair cut like Tom Cruise, so he gave me a cushion to sit on.

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

Groby WI News The arctic weather caused great disruption for us all. The cancellation of our January meeting was a big blow for myself and many other members.

It was supposed to be our charity meeting, the ABF The Soldiers Charity. We took so many names each and rang around to cancel, hopefully we reached all members. At our meetings apart from news of W.I activities, it is a time to relax, enjoy the Speaker, widen our interests and greet friends. To me, February is the worst month of the year; not this time, I look forward enjoying a normal W.I. meeting next month.

However we did manage to get to the Curve for a performance of “Hello Dolly”. We had no problems there as it was before the great snow. As usual we saw a very polished performance. Personally, I thought the chorus which included wonderful male dancers was excellent. I think most must have had ballet training. At my age I can afford to talk “warmly” about young men.

There was a trip, however, a County one. WI House organised a 5 day trip to Warners at Cricket St. Thomas. I have been there and it is lovely. It was in the past, a small wildlife centre, home to Noel Edmunds and of course, Mr. Blobby but mainly known as the Manor in “To the Manor Born”. My friends inform me that they had a great time. They went on a visit to the RNLI Centre in Poole which they said was very interesting and extremely pleasant. This is where life boat men train, apparently the pool they use is especially deep.

Leaving about 4.30p on their return bus trip it began to snow

and within half an hour it was blizzard conditions. They were on the A30 and they became stuck on a hill. Eventually snow ploughs came along and they managed to get to the County border but were told that was the end of their jurisdiction. Eventually they managed to reach the edge of the hotel but the bus couldn’t manage the drive, so they were ferried by cars to the hotel. All this took over six hours, finally getting back about 11.30pm where they were greeted with lots of clapping and cheering.

The only worry being that there were a few diabetics on the coach but luckily between the ladies they found enough biscuits, chocolates etc to see them through.

After this they were snowbound in the hotel for two days, some venturing to go Nordic walking.

After all this, they had a great time and being WI ladies, kept themselves fully entertained.

Next month’s meeting is on Thursday 21st February at 7.30pm at the Village Hall (opposite the Post Office along side of the Library when it will be a social evening plus having a go at paper bead making.

Never heard of it myself but always willing to learn. So fingers crossed, I will see you then, you are always welcome.

By the way my friend and I also went to a Warners on the Isle of Wight at the same time (no snow just a sprinkle on the tops of the hills). We had a laugh, passing a very posh carpet shop and I noticed in the window a sign, “Bed for Sale no legs £10.00. Thought that a bit funny but the next window had a sign, “Table for Sale no legs £10.00“. It’s perfectly true but we did wonder what happened to the legs! Now if it had been the Isle of Man I could have understood it!

So if you want to become legless you know where to go.

Evelyn and Margaret

Walk the dog and support LOROS!

Join us for ‘Paws 4 a Cause’ Sponsored Dog walk for LOROS Hospice! The 4km Sponsored Dog Walk will be held on Sunday 3rd March 2013, starting at the Bandstand in the beautiful grounds of Abbey Park, in Leicester.

The Dog Walk will have a set start times between 11am-1pm. Each dog will be rewarded with a branded dog tag on completion of the walk along with a FREE goody bag! There will be prizes for the most sponsorship money raised and handed in!

For FREE Registration and to receive your sponsorship pack for ‘Paws 4 a Cause’, please call fundraising today on 0116 2318431 or please visit the LOROS website www.loros.co.uk /fundraising to register online.

Letter

A very big thank you My car was stuck in the snow and underlying mud for 3 hours on Monday night 21st January.

In the freezing cold two friends spent an hour and a half trying to dig me out. A third friend came to help and we enlisted the help of a group of snow boarders who were on their way home.

Without the combined effort of all those people who manage to push me out I would still be stuck. I am so very grateful to all those who took time to help me.

Liz Emmerson

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If your name is Andre, when writing, you should think twice before you sign off with a kiss.

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

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East Midlands Starts Search for RHS Young School Gardener of the Year

FENCING Teachers from more than 1,330 schools across the East Midlands can now nominate for Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Young School Gardener of the Year 2013, a quest to find the most knowledgeable, enthusiastic and talented gardening pupil in the UK. The competition is open to all schools on the RHS Campaign for School Gardening scheme, of which there are nearly 16,500 in the UK, and aimed at children up to the age of sixteen. RHS Campaign for School Gardening started in 2007 to support and encourage UK schools to use a garden as a teaching resource and has gone from strength to strength.

Last year, eleven-year-old Lucas Hatch (above) from Suffolk won the title by impressing judges with his flair, enthusiasm and knowledge of gardening. As part of his prize, Lucas spent the day with RHS Wisley Curator, Colin Crosbie and was presented with a certificate and personalised trowel bearing his name. His school, St. Mary’s

Lucas Hatch, RHS Young School Gardener of the Year 2012 Primary School in Suffolk, received £500 worth of gardening vouchers and his family won tickets to RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show 2013.

Sarah Cathcart, Head of Education and Learning at the RHS, said: “We launched this competition last year to raise the profile of gardening in schools and to celebrate gardening skills in young people. In part, because our research proves it helps a child’s wellbeing and development, but also because there’s a wealth of horticultural jobs out there. Teachers and other adults associated with the school can nominate a pupil by visiting www.rhs.org.uk/schoolgardening by May 18.

A shortlist of finalists will then be asked to create videos. These will be watched by a panel of judges including broadcaster and The Sun’s Gardening Editor, Peter Seabrook, and TV gardener, David Domoney.

The winner of RHS Young School Gardener of the Year 2013 will be announced on 12 July, 2013.

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My girlfriend dumped me because of my obsession with plants, so I asked: ‘Where’s this stemming from Petal?’

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

National Trust Leicester Association NEWS The National Trust has announced details of some properties that will be open for the first time in 2013.

Jottings

News in Brief with Norman Griffiths

Waiting restrictions In these days when we’re used to forecasts that prove inaccurate there is one that seems to be more or less on the mark – the time it would take to introduce new waiting restrictions on the roads in the village centre. We were told it would take what would seem like an age and it has, because of all the legal processes that have to be followed.

There may only be a few months more to wait. “The earliest we are looking at is the end of April 2013 as a potential target date for the completion of the Order, this may still be subject to revision,” said a spokesperson for the County Council.

“The amendment/addition to the scheme for Chapel Hill is currently progressing. The remaining majority of the scheme will then be advertised together with the Chapel Hill portion and the minor amendments requested by the Parish Council, as an entire scheme.

Because there were objections to the original scheme we will have to go to the local County Councillor with a report recommending that these be overruled, which he will have to agree to. Subject to this approval, the entire scheme can then be ‘Made’ and as soon as it is practical the actual lines and signs can be installed to coincide with the Order making date.”

Once the waiting restrictions are in place residents who do not currently have commuters parking outside their homes may find that this changes, as they have to find new parking spaces.

Lost some keys?

Keys have been found on Stamford Park. They may have lain undetected for some time. If you think they may be yours call Sandra on 079 777 46108.

Road closures As soon as the signs went up for the road closures to enable local roads to be resurfaced the snow and ice arrived. This resulted in an on/off situation which was particularly inconvenient for those wishing to travel by bus. At times drivers were as confused as passengers and didn’t know what alternative route to follow. The diversion down Rookery Lane to Ratby Road tested the skill of drivers and occasionally led to heated words between them and motorists who didn’t realise just how much space is needed to turn a bus. By the time this edition is delivered more work should have been completed, this time resulting in the temporary closure of the road outside the Community College. With work coming on the A50/A46 there’s more to follow.

History’s influential women Three years after Time Team came to Groby it seems that Elizabeth Woodville is in the spotlight once again. Work is currently progressing on a BBC2 documentary series about the ways in which women wielded power during the War of the Roses. Presented by Philippa Gregory, the series aims to depict the interwoven lives of Margaret Beaufort, Elizabeth Woodville and Anne Neville, revealing how these women influenced the course of English history.

“In an age where women had little official power to wield, the series aims to examine how these extraordinary women went about shaping their own destinies and those of their children,” explained Catherine Stefanini who is part of the production team.

“From the consolations and opportunities in religion to the power invested in a woman’s

In Grasmere, Cumbria, Allan Bank, will open seven days a week from March 18th. Allan Bank has been owned by the Trust for many years but has always been rented to a long term tenant. It was once home to William Wordsworth and Canon Rawnsley, one of the founders of the National Trust, but was seriously damaged by fire in 2011. The house has been partially restored and visitors will see the house, the surrounding woodland and take in the stunning views over Lake Grasmere. I am personally interested in this development as I knew one of the tenants and have stayed in the house.

Also in Cumbria, Wray Castle (pictured) on the western shore of Lake Windermere near Ambleside is an amazing large mock-gothic castle. The property is empty of the original furniture but visitors will be able to touch the architectural features and stroll in the beautiful grounds that run down to the lake. Wray Castle opens seven days a week from March 23rd.

In London, 575 Wandsworth Road, Lambeth, will open on March 2nd but as this is a modest terraced house admission will be by pre booked ticket only. The house has been turned into a work of art with breathtaking handcarved fretwork covering the walls in every room.

In addition new countryside owned by the Trust at Windermere and Arnside in Cumbria, at Stackpole near Pembroke and at Minnowburn near Belfast, Northern Ireland will all be open daily to the public.

Most local National Trust properties open during February. Sudbury Hall and the Museum of Childhood, Kedleston Hall, Hardwick Hall and Canons Ashby all open on the 16th, Calke Abbey on the 23rd and Belton House on 1st March. So start planning your visits now.

The National Trust Leicester Association has an afternoon meeting on Wednesday 27th February at St Guthlac’s Memorial Hall, Holbrook Road, Leicester at 2.30pm. Derek Seaton will present a talk on The Gallant Steelback – William Bolter VC. There will be an evening meeting on Tuesday 12th March when David Templeman will present an illustrated talk on Mary Queen of Scots – The Captive Queen 1568-84. The meeting will be held at Braunstone West Social Centre, St Mary’s Avenue, Braunstone West at 7.30pm.

Admission to both meetings is NTLA members £2.50 and visitors £4.00 including refreshments. For more information on the NT Leicester Association and its Talks Service call 0116 2229133.

Alan Tyler, Chairman physical beauty; from a woman’s influence as a mother to the authority she might wield through witchcraft or her marital proximity to powerful magnates, we want to vividly bring to life how each of these women managed their own reputations and the lengths that they were prepared to go to protect the interests of their children. In addition to this we wish to evoke what it might have felt like to have lived during this period by empathising with some of the key dilemmas that these women would have faced at the main junctures of their lives and examining the repertoire of responses and reactions a woman could call upon

in 15th century England.”

Although Philippa Gregory writes extensively about real life historical characters she would not wish to be a woman of any of those times.

“A Tudor or Plantagenet woman was wholly ruled by men: either father or husband,” she said. “She would find it difficult to seek any education, make her own fortune, or improve her circumstances.

Her husband would have a legal right over her that was equal to his ownership of domestic animals; and the chances of dying in childbirth were very high.” It sounds like an intriguing and thought provoking series, and one to look out for.

I’ve trained my dog to bring me a glass of red wine. It’s a Bordeaux Collie.

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

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I like to drink my brandy neat, but sometimes I take my tie off and leave my shirt out.

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

The wind turbines arrive Love them or hate them Groby’s first wind turbines have arrived. Many residents hope that they are also the last.

They have caused much discussion in the village with some asking how they managed to get planning approval. “They are the latest useless eyesore to be dumped on the village,” complained one resident.

Local councillors are reporting increased contacts concerning the turbines and www. grobyonline.tk has seen a marked increase in the number of visitors to the site reading the original Spotlight article about the planning applications. Although the first application was refused because, it seems, additional information asked for had not been provided, the September application was approved.

The manner in which this application was dealt with has caused concern at the Parish Council, whose objections included the following grounds • Location goes against the documented HBBC Local Plan and should remain open countryside; • near to a proposed housing development; • installation is detrimental to existing archaeology; • artist’s impressions supplied are understated; • no benefit to the local community; • area in the flight path of many protected birds including water migratory birds.

The background article can still be read in the back issues archive of www. grobyspotlight.co.uk and also at www.grobyonline.tk, where a You Tube video of one of the infrequent turbine fires can be viewed.

I took a urine test at the hospital today. This kleptomania’s getting out of hand.

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

Groby Community College

Fame - Christmas Musical

Rehearsals for Groby Community College’s ‘Fame!

The Musical’ started all the way back at the beginning of September.

The Christmas musical always attracts a wide range of people, and this year the performing arts department were happy to see lots of new year 10 students getting involved. ‘Fame!’ is a musical set in the New York High School of Performing Arts, and follows the stories of some of the students over their time at school.

The week of the show is always hectic, with performers spending thirteen days solidly at school including weekend rehearsals, and by the final night of performance it’s not unusual to get a very good night’s sleep as a result of pure exhaustion. The opening night went well, with a few minor-slip ups, and from then on in things only improved. Everyone in the cast seemed to become more and more like their character, and the energy increased with every performance. It is a difficult and demanding musical: the opening number, ‘Hard Work’, is nearly ten minutes long on its own and there’s no time for resting as the majority of the scenes include a musical number, so all credit must be given to anyone who took part; not forgetting, of course, the band. The Christmas musical is always accompanied by a live band which this year included piano, violin, guitar, bass guitar, percussion and brass instruments.

Unfortunately, Fame! was plagued with a winter lurgy which managed to work its way around the majority of the cast and the production team.

Sadly, for Joe Boden, who was playing the part of Drama teacher Mr Myers, his illness was so severe that he was forced to drop out of the final two performances, and Miss Smith read his lines for him. He was sorely missed, though credit must be given to Miss Smith for managing the backstage production team as well as reading Joe’s lines!

Overall, Fame! was a great experience for all involved, and with any luck, next year’s musical will be just as good.

Rebecca Ford Year 12 student

Wednesday Night is Poker Night at The Coach & Horses The Coach & Horses at Field Head is now running Poker Nights every Wednesday, starting at 8pm.

So, if you fancy yourself as the new Cincinnatti Kid, why not pay a visit? For more details - ask at the bar.

I’m going on a blind date tonight. I hope our dogs get on.

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

Groby Book SPOT of Heaven: Village Proof A Neurosurgeon’s Journey into the Afterlife Society

By Eben Alexander

Preservation ~ Conservation Communal Interests

Forthcoming Events Thursday February 28 Groby Old Hall: What Time Team Didn’t Tell You - Mr David Ramsey Thursday March 28 - A.G.M. Thursday April 25 - Richard III’s Leicester - Mrs Alison Coates Meetings are held at Groby Village Hall Starting at 7.30pm.

For Further Details Contact Hon. Secretary Mr. P. Castell Tel. 0116 287 9842 Email: groby.villagesociety@ tiscali.co.uk Non Members are Welcome

Internationally acclaimed neurosurgeon Dr Eben Alexander always considered himself a man of science. His unwavering belief in evidence-based medicine fuelled a career in the top medical institutions of the world. But all this was set to change.

One morning in 2008 he fell into a coma after suffering a rare form of bacterial meningitis. Scans of his brain revealed massive damage. Death was deemed the most likely outcome.

As his family prepared themselves for the worst, something miraculous happened. Dr Alexander’s brain went from near total inactivity to awakening. He made a full recovery but he was never the same. He woke certain of the infinite reach of the soul, he was certain of a life beyond death.

In this astonishing book, Dr Alexander shares his experience, pieced together from the notes he made as soon as he was able to write again.

Unlike other accounts of near-death experiences, he is able to explain in depth why his brain was incapable of fabricating the journey he experienced. His story is one of profound beauty and inspiration.

AMAZON PRICE: £8.44 (Paperback)

Advance Notice Of A Temporary Traffic Regulation Order A Temporary Traffic Regulation Order (TTRO) is to be made for Groby Road, Ratby.

The purpose of the TTRO is to facilitate carriageway resurfacing.

The TTRO will incorporate a temporary road closure.

Whilst the TTRO is physically in place the diversion route will be via Markfield Road, Ratby; Ratby Lane, Launde Road, Markfield; Leicester Road, Bradgate Hill, Markfield Road, the A50/A46 Roundabout, Leicester Road, Sacheverell Way, Groby, and vice versa The actual duration of the restriction is not anticipated to exceed a period of 4 days commencing on the 2nd April 2013.

The doctor told me to watch what I eat, so I’ve booked a couple of tickets for the Grand National.

Urban Saints is held during term time, at the URC chapel: games, friends, crafts and a Christian basis to discussions.

- for 5’s to 14’s on Mon evenings at 3.45pm, 6.30pm or 7.45pm - for 15-18’s on Wed evenings at 7.30pm - for 15-18’s o Fri at 7.30pm More details on the church websites

More details on the church websites or check with Louise Corke 0116 231 3090

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

Fair Cuppa: an opportunity to meet with friends at the village hall. Every Thursday, 10.30-12.00

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

The nice thing about living in a small town is, when I don’t know what I’m doing, someone else does.

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

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Atkins holds its second wedding fair The Bricklayer’s Arms 213 Main Street Thornton T: 01530 230 808 QUIZ Nite: Thursdays We now have SKY and ESPN Try our new menus!

Now taking bookings for Mothering Sunday! www.bricklayersarms.net The Club, Thornton Main Street.

T: 01530 230251 Open to Non-Members Re-Opening Weekend Celebrations on Sat 9th And Sun 10th Mar Sat 9th Mar: The Dirty Water Band - Old And New Rock Covers With Accoustic Spot Sun 10th Mar: Afternoon ReOpening Party With The Del Sharrons 50’s + 60’s - at 4.30pm Sat 16th Mar: The Retro Rockets Fri 22nd Mar: Children’s End Of Term Easter Disco/Party Sat 23rd Mar: The Mighty Gyrators Sat 30th Mar: Punk And Disorderly - Thornton’s Very Own Punk Band We Also Have Bingo Every Tuesday Evening All Welcome. www.myspace.com/ thorntonclub The Field Head Hotel Markfield Lane, Markfield Tel: 01530 245454 Tribute Nights/£2 Entry after 7pm.

Fri 22nd Feb: DIAMONTE DANCE PARTY TRIBUTE Fri 8th March: TRIBUTE TO DUSTY SPRINGFIELD & CO See ad on page 26.

The Queen’s Head Ashby Road, Markfield.

T: 01530 242 496 ALL SKY SPORTS & ESPN Sat 23rd Feb: THE THREETLES - Jan’s 15 Year Celebration!

Sat 16th March: MIA & THE MOON EASTER SUNDAY NIGHT - 31st March: KARAOKE with KING OF THE ROAD

Bagworth Working Men’s Club, Station Road, Bagworth.

Tel. 01530 230205 New members welcome.

Live entertainment – last Saturday of the month Andy’s Charity Quiz £1.50 each last Friday of the month Sequence dances Sunday Nights. £1.00 admission 8 pm Tea Dance Wednesday afternoon 2 – 4 pm. £1 admission.

Sat 23rd Feb: ANDY SUMMERS - 60s favourites Sat 9th March: SEQUENCE DANCE - with Bingo and Raffle - £1.50 entrance (to pay for roof repair!).

IT’S TIME TO RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP! Please do so as soon as possible.

ASK ABOUT OUR FREE ROOM HIRE FOR THOSE SPECIAL FAMILY OCCASIONS. The Coach & Horses Leicester Road, Field Head Tel: 01530 242 312 KARAOKE Nights:Sats 16th Feb and 2nd March with ‘King of the Road’.

AFTER the success of its first wedding fair last year, Hinckley’s Grade II Listed Atkins Building is holding its second fair later this month.

Organisers are repeating the event on Saturday 23 February to allow local businesses to showcase their wedding products and services to prospective brides and grooms.

Deborah Bates from Hinckley Registration Service, who will also be at the fair, said: “Hinckley Registrars are delighted to be involved in the wedding fair and will be offering guided tours of the ceremony suites at the Atkins Building.

“We are very pleased to be able to offer a prize draw on the day for one lucky couple to win a free ceremony in one of our lovely contemporary suites.”

The wedding fair, ceremony suites tours, and prize draw are open from 10am to 4pm and entry is free.

For more information and regular updates please see The Atkins Building Facebook page.

Millennium Green News Annual General Meeting

The Bulls Head Forest Road, Markfield T: 01530 242541 Garden & Pub Games etc.

Sat 16th Feb: GEE ‘N’ US Sat 2nd March: JOHN STACEY

The AGM of the Glenfield Millennium Green Trust is taking place on Monday February 25th at Park House on Stamford Street in Glenfield beginning at 7.30pm. Anyone is invited to attend, to listen to a review of the last 12 months and help us plan activities for 2013. Tea, coffee or cold drinks will be available after the meeting and the 100 club draw for February will take place.

Groby Ex-Servicemen’s Club, Leicester Road, Groby Tel: 0116 287 1809 www.grobyclub.co.uk Friday 22nd Feb: Sam Bailey - Very Good Female Singer Saturday 23rd Feb: Echo 12 - A Great Male Duo Sunday 24th Feb: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz Friday 1st March: Martin John - Quality Male Singer Saturday 2nd March: Choc Ice - Superb Male Duo Sunday 3rd March: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz Friday 8th March: Cats Eyes - Excellent Male/female Duo Saturday 9th March: T.b.a.

Sunday 10th March: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz Friday 15th March: Reverb Quality Male Duo Saturday 16th March: T.b.a.

Sunday 17th March: Super Sunday ‘50’ Bingo And Quiz

After a successful fund-raiser in November we are running another Table Top Sale in Groby Village Hall on the morning of Saturday March 23rd. It costs just £6 to book a table and it will give you the chance to clear out any unwanted ‘treasures’, and make room for more! You need to book early as the last ‘Sale’ was over-subscribed. If you want more details or a booking form please phone 0116 2991868.

Table Top Sale in Groby Village Hall

Flooding You may have found that areas of the Green have been VERY wet during the winter and some parts of the path have been inaccessible. We hope to alleviate this flooding as soon as the weather improves enough to allow the contractor to repair damaged surfaces and raise part of the walkway at the lowest part of the Green. While this is being done some areas may have to be closed temporarily.

Easter Egg Hunt Our annual Easter Egg Hunt for young children will take place on Saturday March 30th. Full details will be in the next edition of the Spotlight.

Christine Tordoff

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

Thanks!

After reading about the evils of drinking, I’ve decided to give up reading.

d Search Puzzle

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

26

http://puzzlem

Card Games Wordsearch

K X C Y K U Q T J A C C R I P

O C B R X V N Q B T H A V B T

D R A K I D W Y W S E S Q V I

K X C J X B W B S A A O I M O

BACCARAT BEZIQUE BLACKJACK BRIDGE CANASTA CHEAT CRIBBAGE GINRUMMY PONTOON SEVENS SOLOWHIST STUDPOKER

X X C F K U B T E N T T Y W G

G P A N G C U A Q A S R O S Q

T N R H B D A N G C S C E I Y

W D A W P F E L O E D V B V X

B N T O D U A P B O E H I M V

T I K P Q J J N T N T W K K N

Find 12 Card Games in this month’s Wordsearch puzzle and you could win yourself a meal and a drink. This month we are offering a TASTY prize of: A Main Course for Two, plus A Bottle of House Wine at The Fieldhead Hotel.

To go into the draw, all you have to do is find - and mark a line through - the names of 12 well-known Card Games. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!).

Send your entry to: card sharp, Groby & Field Head Spotlight, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Friday 8th March 2013.

Remember to include your name and address. The first all-correct entry drawn out of the Editor’s stetson will win the Meal for Two at The Fieldhead Hotel. Good luck!

R E L I A N O X S J E N X F D

R T Z T S I H W O L O S O V F

C E B E G D I R B W B K U P L

B Y Q K Y C K I V P O A Y W D

O L W X I G I N R U M M Y I T

Here are the 12 Card Games you have to find: BACCARAT • BEZIQUE • BLACKJACK • BRIDGE CANASTA • CHEAT • CRIBBAGE • GIN RUMMY PONTOON • SEVENS • SOLO WHIST • STUD POKER Name: .................................................................................................

Address: ................................................................................................ .................................................................Postcode: .............................

Last Month’s Wordsearch Winner The winner of last issue’s Wordsearch competition was: MR D.BORRETT of Woodlands Drive, Groby. You win a Main Course for Two plus a Bottle of House Wine at The Fieldhead Hotel.

Congratulations! Your prize will be with you soon.

Markfield, Ratby and Groby Community Forum The next Community Forum meeting for Markfield, Ratby & Groby will take place on Thursday 7th March 2013, at Stanton Under Bardon Youth Club, Information and Networking session 6.30pm till 7pm with the main meeting starting at 7.00pm.

Topics for the evening include; • Cash for Your Community 2013 • Find out more about Neighbourhood Policing within your local area.

• Hear about Ratby’s new skate park/wheeled facility and the positive impact this has had on helping to tackle anti-social behavior within the local community.

• Learn about Think Leicestershire and find out how this can help you to make a difference.

If you have any thoughts, ideas or have any other topics you would like to discuss please contact Nicola Lees directly either by emailing leicestershireforums@leics.gov.uk or calling 0116 305 7986.

Created by Puzzlemaker at DiscoveryEducation.com

The Next Round of Community Forum Budget Workshops 2013…..

If you missed out on funding in 2012, you can still get involved! Leicestershire County Council will be repeating this opportunity for local residents in June 2013.

To find out more you can either come along to Markfield, Ratby & Groby Community Forum on Thursday 7th March 2013 or visit Leicestershire Forums website www.leicestershireforums.org/cfb In the meantime get your thinking caps on!

If you do not have access to the internet please call 0116 305 7034 where a member of the Communities and Places Team will be able to assist.

I had a great birthday today, but the cake gave me heartburn. Next time I’ll take off the candles.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • Mid-February 2013 • Tel: 01530 244069 01162 879760

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PACKAGE 1

Quality Youngman timber ladder & hatch combined, 100 square feet of loft flooring One 4ft fluorescent light & switch fully fitted

ONLY £585

PACKAGE 2

Quality Youngman timber ladder & hatch combined, 200 square feet of loft flooring One 4ft fluorescent light & switch fully fitted

ONLY £765

PACKAGE 3

Quality Youngman timber ladder & hatch combined, 300 square feet of loft flooring One Fakro Roof Window 550mm x 780mm One 4ft fluorescent light & switch fully fitted

ONLY £1295

ECONOMY PACKAGE

UPVC hinge down loft hatch Two section aluminium loft ladder 100 square feet of loft flooring pendant light fitting and switch

EXTRA BOARDING

Additional boarding to any package £30 per 16 square foot

ONLY £435

LOFT STORAGE

SOLUTIONS Balancing on a stepladder, clambering over loft joists with a torch in one hand and a box in another is not only awkward but potentially dangerous.

Boarding, lighting and a ladder not only gives you the opportunity to unclutter your living space, but also creates a cleaner and more useful environment.

Solve your storage needs and start utilising the largest space in your home from only £435

LUXURY STORAGE ROOMS

Our luxury storage rooms are surprisingly affordable at just a fraction of the cost of a standard loft conversion. Our luxury storage rooms can include the strengthening of loft joists, flooring, lighting, roof insulation, stud walls, roof windows and either plasterboard or skim finish.

PRICES FROM £2995

0116 367 9749

07515 526959 / 079615 76020 www.LeicesterLoftStorage.com

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