Feb 2012 Herald

February 2012

Charity begins at school!

I have just received another email asking the school if we could arrange a nonuniform day in support of a thoroughly deserving National charity.

This made me think how important it is that we plan our charity events throughout the year. Pupils, staff, parents and friends of South Charnwood High School are so kind and so generous when we arrange any charity event, but we must be careful that we do not overstretch their generosity.

The reason I have chosen charity as the theme of this article is twofold; firstly, I specifically wanted to concentrate on the amazing work done by pupils in support of the Shoe Box Appeal at Christmas under the guidance of Mrs Pauline Ackland, and secondly, I wanted to highlight the charity work done in general throughout the year by the school.

I suppose I got the idea for this theme from the Christmas newsletter because the first section entitled ‘Fundraising’ contained reports on our Shoe Box Appeal, on our support for Children in Need and the Poppy Appeal, as well as the sponsored walk. Alongside that, we referred to the coffee morning that staff took part in, in support the Macmillan Trust, which raised £174.24. We also participate in activities in support of Red Nose Day and Jeans for Genes and, we are thinking about what we are going to do for Sport Relief this year.

At Christmas time our thoughts always go out to others and staff were given the opportunity to send one card to everybody and donate the money they would have spent on Christmas cards. This year the money went to Cancer Research.

We have also arranged to take part in Leicestershire County Council card recycling scheme, in support of the Woodland Trust, which is the UK’s leading woodland conservation charity.

And then there is the Shoe Box Appeal. It has become a tradition now at the school and is arranged and organised by Mrs Pauline Ackland who, in the run up to Christmas encourages, cajoles and

HAVE YOU LOST YOUR PURSE? A purse containing money was left behind at a performance of “Mother Goose” at Thornton Community Centre in January.

If it’s yours, please ring Muriel on 01455 822148.

Is This Your Cat?

Pictured (left to right) are Amy Lucas, Mrs Pauline Ackland, Florence Oram and they are holding 3 of the 115 shoe boxes prepared by the pupils at South Charnwood, which were sent to children in the Ukraine at Christmas nags pupils and staff to find an old shoe box, cover it in Christmas paper and fill it with items for a young child who, otherwise, would not receive any Christmas presents at all. This year our shoe boxes went to the Ukraine and there were 115 in all.

As our display in the main corridor shows, the school has raised over £3100 for charity, on top of our shoe boxes, in this first term alone.

So, thank you to you all for your generosity.

Understanding, empathy and care for others are important attributes to encourage in our young people in preparation for their future and their role as global citizens. This emotional aspect of learning must not be underestimated and it is evident throughout our curriculum, culminating when Year 9s research the Holocaust and visit the Beth Shalom Centre.

Raising money and supporting these worthy causes is important but the educational benefits to our young people as far as social and emotional learning is concerned are equally valuable.

Thank you all for your support.

Andrew Morris

Headteacher, South Charnwood High School

More details on page 8 ...

Local family freezes!

A Markfield family made the mistake of stepping outside during the recent snowstorm and ended up frozen!

A neighbour said: “I looked out of my window and saw them set off to take their dog for a walk during the blizzard. But within a few seconds, they became covered in snow and were frozen on the spot!”

The Herald understands that the family - and dog - were safely thawed out by paramedics, using hot water bottles and a hair dryer. Phew!

NEXT ISSUE OUT: Saturday 10th March - Advert & Articles Needed By 25th February

It’s Markfield Lunch Club!

Celebrating more than thirty years of service to this community the LUNCH CLUB has prepared wholesome home cooked food served on the 3rd Saturday of each month at the Methodist Church on Main Street.

01530-564623/07875378628

Set up initially to cater for those living alone, to provide a congenial meeting place all are welcome to taste our hospitality. A two course meal is followed by tea or coffee for £4.00.

The Club, run my members of the of the Catholic and Methodist churches here in the village, has been awarded a 5 Gold Star status by H.B.B.C. and the Food Standards Agency and is run as a non-profit making service to the village. Transport may be available to those with mobility problems, please contact Ian Barrs on 01530 243811.

May we extend an open invitation to you all to the next lunch to be held on Saturday 18th February from 12 noon. We look forward to seeing you.

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN MARKFIELD. Douglas and Hazel Brewer doughazel@hotmail.co.uk

There will always be death and taxes; however, death doesn’t get worse every year.

This issue of The Herald is being delivered over the weekend of 11-12 February 2012 by The Herald’s team of dedicated deliverers, namely: Coral, Maureen, John, Phoebe, Sam, Sarah, Jack, Ian, Ann, Gill, Janet, John, Helen, Don, Jeanie, Jenny, Bradley, Daisy, Heather, Margaret, Matthew, Alexander, Mike, Rowan, John & Sue.

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BROWN’S BLUE UPDATE You may remember an article which featured in The Herald at about this time last year for information concerning the Brown’s Blue bus company which sold out to the Midland Red in March 1963.

It is the Fiftieth Anniversary of the sale in March 2013, to commemorate this event I am gradually putting together a full history of the company, the staff, the vehicles and most importantly the people in North West Leicestershire who used their services.

The response has been fantastic and I thank everybody who has assisted me in this venture, apologies to those who I have not managed to see yet, I will be in touch but as you can appreciate it all takes time, if anybody still has anything to offer, especially any photos of the very early vehicles, it is not too late.

As can be seen I am getting on well with the book, the front and rear covers are complete and chapters 1 to 7 are now set out in book form, complete with photos.

I am working towards an autumn 2012 release; the actual date will be announced later.

Mick Gamble

Charity Dance at Bagworth Club On Friday 17th February at 8.00 pm at the Bagworth Working Men’s Club there will be a charity social dance.

All of the profits will go to the Leicestershire Air Ambulance.

Tickets cost £2.50 and can be bought on the door or can be obtained from the Club. There will also be a raffle and bingo at this event.

This is always a good night which is enjoyed by everyone.

There will be lots of good prizes for the raffle giving you a good chance of winning.

Information: 01530 230467.

When it comes to cosmetic surgery… a lot of people turn their noses up.

Scouts Music and Awards

Thornton St.Peter’s Church Spot In the last issue of the Herald I was able to share with you details of the problem St Peter’s was experiencing as a result of the shrinkage of the subsoil beneath the Tower.

We were entertained by members of the 1st Markfield Scout Troop on the evening of Wednesday January 11th.

Scouts played a variety of different musical instruments to gain the Musician Badge.

Duncan Watts, the District Explorer Leader, presented Chief Scout Awards.

Diamond to Adam Morris, Gold Award to Edward Higgins and Silver to Henry Smith During the event Adam gave a slide presentation of activities he did for the Chief Scout Diamond Award.

The evening was very entertaining with the talent of the Scouts.

Dave Morris

Duncan Watts, the District Explorer Leader, presents the Diamond Award to Adam Morris

I’m reliably told that Leicestershire was, last year, the driest County in England for levels of rainfall, and we saw examples of that in our own reservoir and church.

Although recent rainfall has had a noticeable effect on the water level of the reservoir, it has done nothing to redress the problem of the movement of St Peter’s Tower. We have had therefore to make provision for the time when the Tower may return to its original position. This has been done by fitting metal ‘shoes’ over the ends of the three roof beams of the Nave, which slot into the stonework of the Tower, to extend their length and enable them to slide unhindered into their sockets.

The scaffolding in church has now been removed and the work is visible for all to see. Our gratitude must be expressed to those who contributed to the cost of this unexpected work - and especially to the Grantham benefactor who sent me a cheque of £1,100, after having seen our TV debut on East Midlands BBC News. (If you wish to contribute to this repair please make your cheque out to St Peter’s Church, Thornton) This same scaffolding made a not unwelcome backdrop to St Peter’s beautiful Christmas tree, and the rest of the church was, like it, decorated as tastefully as ever. Christmas Services were well attended, but to those who found the church cold I have good news. The Church Council has appointed a contractor to install a new heating system in St Peter’s. It acts something like a refrigerator in reverse, blowing hot air into the building from wall mounted heaters. The Diocesan Advisory Committee has, in principle, approved the installation and work is expected to be done in the Summer months.

And finally I would encourage you to watch this space for details of the exciting programme that the Friends have arranged for the year, as they unfold. The first of these - arranged for Saturday 18th February at Thornton Club beginning at 8pm - is an appearance of the ‘Upbeatles’.

Tony Wadsworth of Radio Leicester fame is part of ‘this group and interest is already evident from far afield. Admission is £5. Further information on 01530 230123 or 01530 230631.

Martin Foster Churchwarden

Public Meeting “The Future of Holy Rood Church, Bagworth” Tuesday 13th March 2012 7.30pm to be held at Bagworth Working Men’s Club, 9 Station Rd, Bagworth, Coalville LE67 1BJ The Archdeacon of Loughborough would like to hear your views.

You may also write to him at Leicester Diocesan Board of Finance, St Martins House, 7 Peacock Lane, Leicester LE1 5PZ

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A friend of mine always wanted to be run over by a steam train. When it happened, he was chuffed to bits!

Maynard Site Consultation Evening This proposal to build on land directly behind the existing Maynard Public House had a second consultation evening at Bagworth Community Centre on 30th January 2012.

This event, held at our request, saw a steady stream of residents come and look at the plans and they were able to talk to representatives of the land owners and the architect who designed the proposal. Whilst most of the 150 plus residents were happy with the layout, concerns were raised regarding the following points.

1. Parking on Jackson Rd. Residents felt that there should be traffic regulations in place to prohibit on street parking on Jackson Rd as it is a huge problem in the snow and ice. Further traffic from this development will only add to the ongoing problems. We are presently talking to L.C.C. and the Parish Council to improve gritting on this road.

2. The houses will come but not the shops. As the retail units are part of this proposal, failure to deliver the units would mean a breach of contract and as such the Local Authority would enforce this through the Courts.

3. Speeding Traffic on Station Rd. As this does not relate directly to this proposal, it is a material consideration and one we take very seriously. Bagworth will presently have a new Permanent Beat Officer in PC Justin Hayes. We are currently talking to him in regards to ongoing issues in Bagworth.

Residents should be reminded that although at present this is just a proposal; an application will be made at the end of February. Once the application is validated, we can then make our thoughts known to Planning Officers as there are issues with the layout and entrance/ exit that could be amended to satisfy residents concerns. This land was always earmarked for development and whilst it is regrettable and sad that the pub will be lost, villages like Bagworth have to accept

Borough Councillors’ Report Chris Boothby & Ozzy O’Shea

the land exclusively for Thornton.

There will many emerging new policy documents such Areas of Separation, Green Wedges, Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (SHLAA) and Local Green Space Designations.

We believe that the A.O.N.B. is the way forward with Thornton’s own strategic protection document and once ratified at Council, this beautiful area of land will be protected forever.

Blue Lid Recycling Bins Cllr Chris Boothby Tel 0116 238 8301 or 07704 345637 Email chris.boothby@hotmail.co.uk

Cllr Ozzy O’Shea Tel 0116 239 4336 or 07808 585825 Email ozzyoshea@hotmail.com

new development. Our remit is to ensure that Bagworth continues to get the infrastructure it should have got when the original regeneration was put in place. Little by little and with your help and support. We are getting there.

Whilst this application will need planning permission, we felt that a village consultation was needed to fully inform residents and to gauge their reaction and input.

To that end there will be a public consultation evening to be held on Tuesday 13th March 2012 at the W.M.C in Bagworth starting at 7.30pm.

Holy Rood Church Bagworth A meeting was held on the 24th January 2012 at the Working Men’s Club in Bagworth to discuss the future of the Holy Rood Church.

Representatives from the Diocese of Leicester, Borough and Parish Councils and the Parish Church Council heard from the Arch Deacon of Loughborough, the Venerable David Newman that the Church is nearing its expected lifespan and has fallen into such a significant state of disrepair that a proposal has been put forward to demolish the Church and create a memorial garden on the site. The existing state of Holy Rood has been monitored closely by HBBC Officers and they conclude that only a major programme of works could save the Church and this is not an option financially that is open to the Diocese. The Church was originally constructed in 1968, using a clasp construction technique rarely used before and paid for by the then Coal Board as a temporary structure. How ironic then that this temporary Church has outlived the Coal Board!

Thornton Reservoir Now that we have a new and emerging National Planning Policy Framework which will seek to replace existing planning policies at HBBC, the protection of land surrounding the Reservoir has always been at the forefront, working with Thornton Action Group and local residents.

Although we had originally been informed that using new consultation documents such as Areas of Special Consideration would be the way forward, this seems now not to be the case.

We held a meeting on the 27th January with members of T.A.G. and Planning Policy Officers to discuss this matter. Whilst Officers have been directed to use whatever means necessary to safeguard the surrounding land, we came to a mutual understanding of its importance and will now seek to categorize it as an area of outstanding natural beauty, but will press ahead with a separate policy that deals with the protection of

As agreed at Council in July 2011, a new recycling service will be introduced this year. Throughout February and March 2012, wheeled bins will be distributed throughout the Borough to improve recycling services for residents. The major improvements from the new service will be: 1. Providing residents with an easier and more convenient way to recycle.

2. Reducing the likelihood of materials escaping and littering the streets.

3. A £200,000 saving to the taxpayer of this Borough.

A leaflet will be delivered within the internal caddy that will inform residents that there is no change to collection days, other collection services (black and brown bins) remain unchanged and the old blue boxes will be collected as the new bins are delivered.

Residents can start using the new bins as soon as they receive them!

The internal caddy which sits inside the top of the new bin is for all your paper and cardboard, Residents can also still use the existing yellow bag if the caddy is insufficient, Thornton will have deliveries on February 16th and March 14th.

Bagworth will be delivered to on February 14th and Bagworth Heath on February 16th.

If you are unsure of this new service then please either contact Street scene Services at HBBC or contact us.

Chris and Ozzy

What do you call a lady with big teeth that sleeps in the afternoon? Siesta Rantzen.

Navigate your way ... to romance ... this Valentine’s Day!

Dates for your diary • Spring Bingo 19 March 7.30 at the Bagworth Community Centre.

Prize Bingo with a Spring theme.

Admission free. Great prizes and raffle prizes as well. Come along for a good evening.

• Guthlaxton Big Band 29 March 7.30 at the Bagworth Community Centre. This evening is rapidly becoming a village tradition and is thoroughly enjoyed by the people who attend. As well as the Big Band, there will be other musical items to enjoy. Something for everyone. Come and see some very talented young people who may well become the stars of the future. Admission: £5 adults, £2.50 children.

ORIENTEERING could make an unusual date for the adventurous this Valentine’s Day. Charnwood Borough Council’s Active Together team, in partnership with British Orienteering and the Leicestershire Orienteering Club, is offering people the chance to have a go and learn more about the sport at four separate events.

You could find your way to romance at the first session, which will take place at The Outwoods, Loughborough, on Valentine’s Day, Tuesday 14th February, during half term.

British Orienteering Participation Manager Natalie Shaw said the events are aimed at beginners and newcomers and are open to both children and adults.

She added: “No experience is necessary and the events especially welcome families.”

The second event will be held at Beacon Hill on Saturday, February 25, and the final two will be held at Burleigh Community College, Loughborough, on Saturday March 3 and Saturday March 10. All sessions begin at 11am and finish at noon.

The events are being organised by the Leicestershire Orienteering Club, who were awarded the title of UK Orienteering club of the Year 2011.

The Orienteering events will kickstart a new Orienteering Club in Loughborough that will be running from Burleigh Community College on Monday evenings, 6:30pm–8pm, kicking off after half term.

Councillor David Snartt, Charnwood Borough Council’s Cabinet member for Neighbourhood Services said “Charnwood Borough Council is pleased to add this partnership with the Leicestershire Orienteering club to its Active Together programme.”

“This is another opportunity for our residents to improve their health and fitness, which

Advertise in the Herald You know it makes sense! is something we are deeply committed to providing.”

For more information you can contact Roger Edwards from the Leicestershire Orienteering Club on 0116 2127547, www.leioc.org.uk.

To find out more about Charnwood Borough Council’s Active Together programme visit www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages/ active_together.

The Herald is delivered to 4,000 local homes and businesses in Markfield, Thornton, Bagworth, Stanton and Field Head 11 Times a Year (no July issue) If You’d Like To Advertise Your Business in The Herald,

Contact Mike on 01530 244069.

(Ad rates are on page 8)

I’ve got a friend who has got a butler whose left arm is missing – serves him right.

News from Thornton Women’s Institute At our February meeting, the ladies of Thornton WI had an indulgent experience! “ WORKING WITH CHOCOLATE” was the title of the talk and demonstration be given to us by MR TOM PHILLIPS. Tom Phillips is a wedding cake specialist and chocolatier who has over 30 years of experience in both teaching and practicing the art of sugarcraft.

A former London chef and lecturer in catering, Tom is the proprietor of “Hannah’s Chocolates” at Quorn which he established more than twenty years ago. The shop specializes in wedding cakes, celebration cakes, handmade chocolates and chocolate novelties as well as selling a variety of cooking equipment.

Tom has acquired national and international recognition for his work and has won numerous awards and medals, including two international gold medals. He has also written two books on the art of chocolate work“Chocolate Cakes” and Chocolate Work”.

Chocolate itself can be a fascinating subject. The Aztec’s prized their beloved Xocolatl so much that when Montezuma was defeated by Cortez in 1519, and the victorious Spaniards searched his palace expecting to find a treasury filled with riches beyond their wildest dreams, they were in for a shock. All the moustached marauders found in the halls of the mighty Monty was a mountainous quantity of cocoa beans!

The British are the biggest consumers of chocolate in Europe. We munch our way through more than 10kg each per year! It’s almost unbelievable that 66,000 Crème Eggs are made every hour.

Mr. Phillips is a master craftsman, and it was a pleasure to learn from him and to sample his wares.

Mr. Phillips’s Book, “Chocolate Work”, he deals with the basic skills of sugarcraft and in “Chocolate Cakes”, he has created an absolutely stunning collection of cakes using a wide variety of types of chocolate, icings and decorations. There are stacked cakes, shaped cakes, layered cakes and fairy cakes. There are cakes suitable for all occasions - wedding, Easter, Christmas and simply for when you need a chocolate fix.

With the sobering knowledge that one chocolate chip provides enough food energy for an adult to walk 150 feet , we know that it’s all about balance! (So it’s off for plenty of walks around the reservoir!)

Our next meeting with be equally appetizing as Debbie Bass’s talk is entitled “SUGAR & ICE” . It will take place on Thursday, 8th March, at 7.30 p.m. at the Thornton Community Centre.

Debbie Bass, winner of Business Woman of the Year 2010, set up “Sugar & Ice” in 2001 after taking up cake decorating as a hobby and using her talents as a small money earner. When she bought the firm, it was specialising in cake decorating. Debbie has expanded its premises and outlets, more than doubled turnover and successfully moved into party supplies, mail order and cake-decorating courses. How’s that for enterprise?

We are looking forward to meeting Debbie, and hearing the inspirational story of “Sugar and Ice”. She has her own Facebook page, where you can see some of her wonderful creations.

You are most welcome to join us. There is a visitor’s fee of £2.

The member’s competition is for a cake stand.

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Laser technology set to reduce delays on Leicestershire’s roads Motorists in Leicestershire will face fewer delays after road incidents thanks to the purchase of state-of-the-art laser scanning technology with funding support by the Government, it can be revealed.

The Department of Transport has awarded “Road closures impact Leicestershire Police Authority £79,765 towards on businesses and the cost of 3D laser scanning equipment to record road collision scenes as part of its consume vast amounts CLEAR initiative, which is aimed at reducing lengthy road closures and speeding up the time of police time and it takes police to clear the roads following an this equipment will accident. The funding is part of a £2.7million help to make the funding package which currently has seen 26 accident investigation police authorities across England benefit.

The technology can rapidly make a 3D process a lot quicker, image of an entire crash scene and store saving money for the it for reference rather than the traditional process which saw investigators painstakingly economy.” examining the scene manually. The digital Barry Roper image taken by the scanners can be viewed on a computer screen remotely to allow investigators to take the necessary measurements of vehicle position and gather other important evidence needed for legal action. This means roads will only need to be closed for a minimal time, easing motorist frustrations and allowing them to resume their journey quicker.

Barrie Roper, chairman of Leicestershire Police Authority, said: “Leicestershire has a busy road infrastructure so any technology which can reduce accident investigation time and see traffic flow return to normal very quickly following a collision has to be welcomed.

“Road closures impact on businesses and consume vast amounts of police time and this equipment will help to make the accident investigation process a lot quicker, saving money for the economy.

“I am delighted the Department of Transport has accepted our bid for funding which will see the purchase of one scanning unit for use on the county’s major roads.”

Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport Mike Penning said: “There is nothing more frustrating than being stuck in a traffic jam for hours on end. But even worse than that is the shocking £1 billion cost of those lost hours for our economy. That is why we are determined to improve the clear-up of accidents so we can get our motorways re-opened as quickly as possible.

“The £2.7 million DfT funding award will see 3D laser scanners rolled out quickly where they are needed most. This will benefit drivers by reducing incident clear up times by 39 minutes on average.

“I would like to thank police forces for seizing this opportunity to purchase laser scanners and contributing funds towards the purchase. This clearly demonstrates how forces are committed to helping to keep traffic moving, in support of economic growth, as well as continuing to deliver their vital role in ensuring the safety and security of all road users. I would also like to thank the National Policing Improvement Agency for providing a contribution to the funding.”

In 2010 there were more than 18,000 full or partial motorway closures lasting a total of more than 20,000 hours.

On the road A teenager was always asking his parents if he could borrow the family car.

Pushed to the limit one day, the father demanded of his son why he thought ‘The Almighty’ had given him two feet. Without hesitation, the son replied: “That’s easy, one for the clutch and one for the accelerator.”

Markfield WI Programme Markfield Womens’ Institute has a packed and interesting programme of events lined up for 2012. See below: 15th Feb

21st March 18th April 16th May 20th June 18th July 15th Aug 19th Sept 17th Oct 21st Oct 19th Dec

Carins Skincare & Make Up Demonstration Clarins Spa at John Lewis Chocolates with Hannah’s of Quorn: Tom Philips Jerusalem Jammers Garland Dancers Resolutions Evening plus Beetle Drive Meningitis Trust: Jo Killick Flower Arranging demo: Sarah of Quorn A Period Costume Show - Votes to Vapours - Notty Hornblower Antiques Roadshow - Richard Plant AGM & Phoebe Whittington: Trip to Tanzania Our Birthday Meal Twelve Days of Christmas: Anne Hughes

Markfield Local History Group News MLHG held its AGM on 17th Feb and was well attended.

The officers elected are as follows: Chair:

Barrie Gannon Vice Chair: David Brooks Secretary: Anne West Treasurer: Laurence Lock Our first meeting for 2012 will be on Tuesday 21st Feb and the talk will be on the Workhouses in Leicestershire by Lois Edwards.

Dates for future meetings have not been finalised but a talk by Di Lockley on the Asylum, a further talk on practical aspects of field walking and a visit to Copt Oak Church and Ulverscroft Priory have are being planned.

The meeting on 21st Feb is an open meetilng and everyone is welcome.

There will be a charge of £2 for non members to include refreshments. The meeting will be held at Markfield Methodist Church and will start at 7.30pm.

Fran Johnson

Found: Tom Cat!

Black and white unneutered tom cat at rear of houses on Markfield Lane.

At present appears to be sleeping in our garden shed. Very friendly and seems to have been loved.

If he belongs to you could you please ring number below to let us know he has a home to go to when it gets colder, Thank you.

Phone us on 01530 244 158 or 07769 650 269

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Apartment for sale within Markfield Court BURCHELL EDWARDS Estate Agents are offeering for sale 11 Oak Green, Markfield Court, Ratby Lane, Markfield.

The property comprises an over 55’s warden assisted, first floor apartment set within Markfield Court which comprises a well planned retirement development.

The apartment enjoys majority Upvc double glazing, electric heated accommodation which comprises of: Lounge, dining room, fitted kitchen, two double bedrooms & bathroom with three-piece white suite. The apartment has no upward sales chain.

The complex also benefits from communal parking, communal gardens with delightful views over rolling countryside and is situated on the very edge of this favoured north-west Leicestershire village.

Set within in communal gardens with uninterrupted countryside views to rear, the complex enjoys a 24 hour, 7 day care line emergency call centre facility.

Also including a residents lounge, library, snooker room and Social Club with function\party room. Various mobile services visit the development on a weekly basis and Markfield village centre is one mile away.

Offers in the region of £94,950 are invited.

For more information, contact Leigh Chapple ate Burchell Edwards on 0116 262 0022.

I quit my job at the helium gas factory. I didn’t like being spoken to in that voice.

11 Help a disadvantaged child!

Friends of Chernobyl’s Children (West Leics) ~ Registered Charity No. 1142034 ~

Are you able to help a local charity that provides unforgettable holidays for disadvantaged children affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster?

Since 1995, Friends of Chernobyl’s Children have been bringing needy children to the UK for 4-week respite holidays from the difficult conditions they endure in their homeland. Nationally, we help around 600 children each year and over the years, we have provided a lifeline for thousands of struggling families through our Family Hosting Project. The West Leicestershire group of the charity is based in Markfield and brought our first group of children to the county in September 2009.

With the help and support of a small but dedicated team of volunteers, and the generosity of local people, the charity is able to place the children with local host families and put together a fantastic programme of activities for the kids to participate in during their stay giving them not only the chance to play, learn and laugh but also to make lasting friendships and enjoy experiences they would never have the opportunity to discover at home.

To help us provide these life-changing holidays, we need local people to get involved. Specifically we need:• Host families living within commutable distance of Markfield who could host a child (age 7-13yrs) for 4 weeks in August 2012.

• Trustees and members who can help us with the day-to-day running of the charity throughout the year.

• Volunteers to assist us in running a 4-week programme of activities.

• Minibus drivers to transport the children in and around the county.

If you would like further information about how you could help us to put smiles onto the faces of these deserving children, please contact Sue Platts on 01455 285799 or 07906 407797 or e-mail paperchase.sue@ btopenworld.com or visit the West Leicestershire page of our national website at www.focc.org.uk.

Come and Enjoy A Three Course Home Made Meal & help raise money for Markfield Churches In the Congregational Hall Main Street, Markfield On Friday 24th February 2012 - From 6.30pm

Home Made Soup, Or Home Made pate, ******** Pork or Beef served with potato & seasonal vegetables, Or Sea Bass ******** Chocolate Pudding Or Apple Crumble ******* Tickets £9.00 each for all 3 courses or £7.00 for 2 courses For tickets and more information Tel Brenda on 01530 242173 All welcome if you need a lift it can be organised.

Parish Calendar photography competition

CALLING ALL LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHERS It’s that time again!

First of all a big ‘Thank You’ to all those who entered pictures in last year’s Parish Calendar photography competition and also to everyone who bought a 2012 calendar!

Now it’s time to start thinking about planning next year’s, so retrieve your digital camera and start taking seasonal pictures of any corner of our Parish. Also, if you have any favourite photos from last year, please keep them for us too, as we shall need some snow scenes and some snowdrop scenes etc too if possible.

This year’s competition will close on Sunday 2nd September, so keep snapping till then and keep your pictures safe. We will ask for them to be submitted very soon after that date and entries will be judged (and chosen for the calendar) towards the end of September. Again, as for last year, the photos should be colour and landscape in layout (i.e. horizontal images rather than vertical).

Please help us make the new competition as successful (and enjoyable) as the last.

If you would like any more information, please call Jo on (01530) 230 455 or Shirley on 230 422.

Naughty mummy A mother asked her young son, as they waited for the bus, to tell the driver he was five years old, because then he would ride for free. As they got into the bus the driver asked him how old he was. “I am five years old,” said the little boy proudly.

The driver had a son of his own that age, and smiled. “And when will you be six years old?” he asked.

“When I get off the bus,” answered the boy.

There are two types of people I hate .... racists and Norwegians.

12

An exciting half-term ahead at Leicestershire attractions!

Look out for lots of exciting events and activities at Leicestershire County Council attractions over half-term.

Saturday 11th – Sunday 19th February: Snibston Discovery Museum Colliery tours, train rides and Beam Engine – where you can see and smell the stationary steam engines come to life - will be running over half-term. Please check running times and availability before you visit. For more details, visit: www. snibston.com or call 01530 278 444.

Monday 13th February: Wise Owl Science Twist with Hawkwise Falconry - Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre Find out why owls are silent in flight and dissect an owl pellet. 8-10 years.

Child £2.50, accompanying adults free. 1.30-3pm. Booking essential.

Wednesday 15th – Thursday 16th February: King Arthur halfterm craft activities and trail - Donington le Heath Manor House Come and hunt for clues around the 700-year-old manor house with our Arthurian Trail and have a go at a variety of themed craft activities.

11am – 4pm. 3 years plus. 20p per trail, small charge for crafts. 01530 831259.

Wednesday 15th February: Costumed Guided Walk for

Children - Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre Children and adults alike can enjoy the magic and mystery behind the history of Bosworth Battlefield in this fascinating walk led by costumed guides in full character. One and a half hours. Suitable for under 9s accompanied by an adult. 11am.

Adults £4, Cons £3. 01455 290429.

Pre-booking recommended.

Friday 17th February: LEGO Day! Make and Take! - Snibston Discovery Museum Come along and see some amazing LEGO models. There will be a giant mosaic build and you will have the chance to build your very own models.

But there’s more… there will be transport themed LEGO workshops throughout the day where you’ll get your own bag of LEGO to use as a professional takes you though some of their amazing hints and tricks for building models and you get to take the LEGO home with you afterwards!

Usual museum admission includes the mosaic build. The make and take workshop is an additional £5.

This event is subject to availability.

Arriving early is recommended to avoid disappointment.

Markfield HomeMakers Programme for 2012 Markfield HomeMakers meet in the Congregational Hall, Main Street, Markfield, on the second Wednesday of the month at 8.00pm.

Contact No’s: Brenda on 01530 242173 or Iris on 01530 242436 March 14th ~ Carole Manchester ~ A Talk about being a Taxidermist April 11th ~ Steve Brooks ~ Tales of a Travel Agent May 9th Fiona Ure ~ Everything stops for tea June 13th ~ Mike Bull ~ A talk about the Little Theatre Aug 8th Skittles ~ 7.15 for 7.30pm ~ At Little Markfield Farm Sep 12th Thomas Coxon ~ Feng Shui & Chinese Horoscopes Oct 10th ~ Food Link Nov 14th ~ Rob Bostock ~ Life of a Vet Dec 12th ~ Christmas Party Jan ~9th ~ Dinner

I saw this man and woman wrapped in a barcode. I said: “Are you two an item?”

13

Markfield, Ratby & Groby Community Forum

T

he next meeting of the Markfield, Ratby & Groby (MRG) Community Forum will take place on Wednesday 29th February 2012, between 7 pm and 9 pm, at Thornton Community Centre, Main Street, Thornton, Leicestershire, LE67 1AH.

Come along and find out more about Deployment of super-fast broadband, Green Spaces in Leicester and Leicestershire and take part in discussions about local jobs and skills opportunities in your area.

Leicestershire County Council will also be providing details of the next round of Community Forum Budgets and how you can get your hands on £12,500 to invest in local improvements of your choice.

To find out more you can either call the Communities & Places Team on 0116 305 7034 or visit the Leicestershire Forums website http://www.leicestershireforums.org/markgro/ Please note both the Chairman and Vice-Chairman are up for election, if you would like to be nominated or want further information on what the role entails please call 0116 305 7986 A formal final agenda will be circulated nearer the time. If you have any queries or suggestions for topics to be included on the agenda for the next meeting, please contact Nicola Lees, Communities & Places Officer for Hinckley & Bosworth on 0116 305 7986 or email Nicola.lees@leics.gov.uk.

Markfield, Ratby & Groby Community Forum area also covers Bagworth & Thornton, Botcheston, Field Head, Groby, Newtown Unthank and Stanton-under-Bardon areas.

Hinckley & Bosworth Community Forum Budget Workshops 2011!

Leicestershire County Council has made funds available to all 25 Community Forums in the county.

The Markfield, Ratby and Groby Community Forum had £12,500 available for local communities to invest in local improvements of their choice.

How did local communities get involved?

Five local groups and organisations requested a share of the £12,500 allocated to the Markfield, Ratby and Groby Community Forum area, with projects ranging from a new skate park and wheeled facility to personalised support for parents/carers with a child under five and fencing to secure sports pavilion.

By sending in project proposal forms prior to the workshop, other local residents and organisations were able to view and comment on submitted Project Proposals via the website, and make suggestions on how the projects could be further improved or developed.

The Markfield, Ratby and Groby Community Forum Budget Workshop, took place on 2nd November, where projects were discussed in detail, and all present were able to vote on their favourite projects.

For further information on the results, please visit the Leicestershire Forums website http://www. leicestershireforums.org/markgro/meetings.html

The Next Round of Community Forum Budget Workshops 2012...

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

Proposal forms will be available from March and these will need to be in by mid May, so get your thinking caps on and keep reviewing the Leicestershire Forums website http://www.leicestershireforums.org/cfb.html to obtain further details, applications forms and find out key dates.

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.

Who’d be a mother?

Constant nagging didn’t seem to provide any relief from having to clean up the bathroom after each of my three teenage children. After I cleaned it one day, I resorted to posting a sign that read: “Please leave the bathroom as you found it.”

I noticed the bathroom was in the usual mess after my son used it, so I called, “Brian, how did you find the bathroom?” After a brief pause, he replied, “Straight down the hall, first door on the right.”

I met a Dutch girl with inflatable shoes last week, phoned her up for a date but she’d popped her clogs.

14

LETTER Skillforce - changing the Panto was great!

What a treat we had in store at Thornton in January with the pantomime ‘Mother Goose’ from the Markfield and Thornton Theatre Group.

The costumes were so colourful, the characters and dancers were excellent and it was a joy to watch from start to finish, and so professional.

We really enjoyed the evening and would like to pass on our thanks to everyone involved.

Glynis and David Straw

Bagworth and Thornton Parish Council The next drop-in will be on Saturday February 11 and then Saturday March 10 both from 10-11 am at the Bagworth Community Centre.

If you have issues that you wish to raise regarding the Parish Council, please feel free to drop in.

Depending on the subject, we may not be able to offer you an instant answer but we do agree to look in to your queries.

Bradgate

Drama Society

are pleased to invite you to join them for a

‘PERFECT WEDDING’ A Comedy by Robin Hawdon

Dates:19th, 20th & 21st April At Newtown Linford Village Hall Full Information in next month’s issue of The Herald.

lives of young people

SkillForce is an education charity working with 10,000 young people throughout 150 schools in Great Britain who are in danger of leaving school without the skills and qualifications they need to succeed in life.

• • • • •

• • • •

Each year 35,000 young people leave school without qualifications.

Those finding work are more likely to be in low paid jobs NEET young people are also five times more likely to have a criminal record than other sections of society.

Each NEET young person costs the taxpayer £97,000 over the course of their lifetime, with a total annual cost of £3.65 billion.

Young people who leave school without qualifications are four times more likely to be NEET (Not in Employment, Education or Training) than their peers who have a qualification. In particular, the most disadvantaged – those on Free School Meals are prone to becoming NEET. Only 9% of those on Free School Meals go into Further Education (FE) whereas 60% of SkillForce graduates go onto FE. 93% of SkillForce graduates gain a recognised qualification.

SkillForce makes positive and permanent change to young peoples’ lives.

For more information, visit the Skillforce website at www.skillforce.org

Are YOU creative?

Design a church chair!

The Church of England has launched a competition for design students, leading designers, manufacturers and contractors: to design new church seating.

The Church of England is responsible for 16,000 parish churches, 12,500 of which are listed, and, as for all developments in church buildings, aspires to the highest quality design for new chairs.

The competition has two categories: 1. Design a chair under £100 - open to students and recent graduates (cash prize and opportunity to pitch to manufacturers).

2. Design a seat (chair or bench) for churches - open to all.

The aim is to encourage chair designs to enhance the buildings they are placed in, and to be celebrated by present and future generations.

For while the Victorian pews may have been swept away to reveal the uncluttered medieval space, sadly this space is often ruined by indifferent or downright ugly modern chairs.

The competition aims to inspire high quality church seating designs (both chairs and benches) that can be retailed at an affordable price. The real challenge will be to see whether comfort and practicality can be combined with good and new design which is sympathetic to historic interiors.

Designs need to be: • ergonomic, sympathetic to historic interiors, sufficiently robust for regular use requiring minimum maintenance, comfortable without dependency on upholstery, • workable on historic floors, able to stack or fold neatly and compactly, lightweight and easy to lift, practical for mass production, with the option of being linked, and of having a book holder and chair arms.

Application forms can be downloaded from www.churchcare.co.uk (or contact THE HERALD on 01530 244069 and we’ll send you one).

Completed application forms and supporting information to be received no later than 30 March 2012. Please send items by post or email to: Catherine Townsend, Casework & Projects Officer, Cathedral and Church Buildings Division, Archbishops’ Council, Church House, London SW1P 3AZ. Tel: 020 7898 1885. E-mail: catherine.townsend@churchofengland.org

Exploring The Universe

By Brian Clegg How many of us have looked up at the sky on a clear night and wondered how it all began? And, if you are in the countryside away from all the light pollution you will have marvelled at the millions of stars that are visible to the naked eye.

With approachable text, assuming no previous knowledge, Exploring the Universe by Brian Clegg is a richly illustrated guide to cosmology from the understanding of the nature of a star to how a planet like the Earth was formed and theories on how the universe came into being and—how it might end.

We are taken beyond the certainties to explore the strange concepts that fill modern cosmology. Is the universe a hologram? Is everything we know part of a membrane floating in multidimensional space? Could we be living in a computer simulation?

All this plus black holes, dark matter, supernovae and quasars.

A must read!

I rang up BT. I said: “I want to report a nuisance caller.” He said: “Not you again.”

15

Women's World Day of Prayer Friday 2nd March 2012

"Let Justice Prevail" prepared by the Christian women of Malaysia

Markfield Court at 11.00 am Markfield Congregational Church, Markfield at 2.30 pm Speaker: Mrs Tailby-Bates

St Mary’s Church, Stanton under Bardon at 7.30 pm Speaker: Rosanne Cooper

Everyone (men, women and children) is invited to join in one of these services, which are always inspirational.

On Friday 2nd March over 3 million people world wide will be praying and worshipping together during this annual day of prayer.

Jean Hackett, WWDP president, said: „This is always an exciting day as a great wave of prayer sweeps the world, beginning when the first service is held in the Queen Salote Girls School in Tonga and continuing around the world until the final service takes place, some 35 hours later, in neighbouring Western Samoa. By then the day will have been celebrated in over 170 countries and more than 6,000 services will have been held in the British Isles alone.‟ Malaysia is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious country. Throughout its history it has attracted migrants from other parts of Asia and beyond and it is one of the wealthiest and most developed countries in South East Asia.

Women have made important contributions to its social and economic development but, nevertheless, they still face discrimination and violence at all levels of society. Even today a girl child is seen as less valuable than a boy.

Although Malaysia‟s multi-ethnicity has added to the rich heritage of its land and people, it has also given rise to many problems. In the service those issues of concern are named and the women voice their hope for the future. Justice for all is their hope, and their prayer is “Let Justice Prevail”.

Markfield Rangers’ Cup Run Continues A disappointing start to the year saw the 1st team lose 3-1 away to last year’s Division 2 runners up, Birstall Stamford.

The team responded well however, beating Riverside by the same score line in the Everards Cup on the windiest day in recorded history (unconfirmed).

They then finished the month with a 7-0 victory in the William Davis Trophy against Loughborough Academicals, playing a brand of football that would grace the Nou Camp (also unconfirmed).

The Reserves, suffering from a Christmas hangover of their own, started the year by losing to FC Charnwood, but responded in superb fashion with a 9-2 away victory to Walsh UK. The month ended on a low however as they lost to Twelve, from the league above, in the S&L Trophy.

Key league games await in February that will go a long way to deciding both teams’ fortunes at the end of the season.

Tom Flowitt Chairman

Bump

A man was trying to pull out of a parking place, but bashed the bumper of the parked car in front of him. Witnessed by a handful of pedestrians waiting for a bus, the driver got out, inspected the damage, and proceeded to write a note to leave on the windshield of the car he had hit. The note read: “Hello. I have just hit your car, and there are some people here watching me who think that I am writing this note to leave you my name, phone number, and driver’s licence number, but I am not.”

I was taking the motorway out of London. A policeman pulled me over and said: ‘Put it back’

16 Birthday show on 10th March

Twenty one years of harmony This year it is 21 years since The Grand Central Chorus was formed and to celebrate they are having a 21st Birthday show at the Derby Theatre, Westfield, Derby, DE1 2NF at 7pm on Saturday the 10th March, 2012.

They are supported by ‘Dale Diva’ the Derbyshire ladies Chorus that won the ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ talent show on Channel 5, The Great British Barbershop Boys, a gold medal winning quartet who were signed by Sony records and who issued their Christmas CD in 2010, ‘Yesteryear’, a Bakers dozen of men who perform in a mix of singing styles and supply the presenter Mr. Len Matthews, known nationally for his wit and presentation style. Tickets are £12 and can be obtained from the Derby Theatre Box Office 01332255800 or online at www.derbylive.co.uk The Chorus had a busy pre-Christmas singing is such diverse places as a Supermarket, the streets of Long Eaton and the departure hall at East Midlands Airport. The latter was at the Christmas Fayre organised by the staff at the airport to raise funds for the ‘Wish Upon a Star’ flight taking terminally ill children to Lapland. A captive audience of stallholders enjoyed the performance, as did the Chorus, but few passengers, due to an absence of flights. The Supermarket was Morrisons’ at Gamston which was raising funds for ‘Save the Children’. From there they went down to Long Eaton to sing to the shoppers in the High Street as part of the entertainment in the lead up to Christmas, organised by the Erewash Partnership. A good time was had by all.

The Chorus wish you a happy New Year and they wish to remind you they rehearse at 7.15 every Wednesday evening at Harrington School, Derby Road, Long Eaton NG10 4BJ, so how about you men out there reading this, making a resolution to come down and listen and perhaps join in. Bring a friend or spouse along. You will be welcome.

Website www.grandcentralchorus.com

Extracts from the The following items are among the topics discussed at the meeting of Markfield Parish Council on Tuesday 10th January 2012 at the Methodist Chapel, Markfield: December 2011 Crime Figures: 3 Burglaries: Oakfield Avenue, Leicester Road, Beech Walk.

1 Burglary Other: Whitwick Road 3 Thefts From Altar Stones Lane, Main Street, Beech Walk, all had number plates taken 1 Theft Of Motor Vehicles - at Leicester Road PC Harlock also reported there had been a disturbance at a house party on New Years’ Eve. Local Authority Traffic Wardens: - The members were very concerned about the increasing incidents of illegal and irresponsible parking along Main Street around the shops and the lack of enforcement. Mr Sprason stated that a review of the system was currently taking place, which had already showed that Towns and Cities were being covered well, but not rural areas. Mr Lay and Mr Sprason had already lobbied to get a better attendance of Traffic Wardens into rural areas.

I don’t make jokes about the Spanish.. No way Jose!

The Parish Council would gather photographic evidence and then write to the Chief Executive at the Borough Council.

Litter – Community Centre Playing Fields: - Mr Lay had met with Mrs Caroline Roffey, Public Space Manager at Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council to discuss concerns about the large amount of litter left on site over the weekends (and evenings during the summer). There were presently nine litter bins on site which weren’t being used by children so Mr Lay suggested that some kind of plan of action should be drawn up involving the local Beat Team. PC Harlock suggested more signage to raise awareness and officers agreed when possible to work together with centre staff and children to reduce the amount of litter left around the grounds.

Markfield Court: Mrs Cook reported that several wheeled bins had been stolen recently and wondered if any other areas had been affected by this. Sgt Kelly stated that these incidents had occurred during a recent spate of thefts of drain covers and suspected that they had been used to transport the stolen items. There had been no incidents in other areas.

17

January 2012 Markfield Parish Council Minutes Faulty Christmas Lights: (As previous minutes) Mr D Tebbatt had attended to repair/replace the lights as necessary at the end of October 2011. The clerk had telephoned him on 24th November 2011 to confirm that they would be turned on by Saturday 3rd December 2011, but Mr Tebbatt was under the impression that they were already on. The clerk informed him that the lights had never been on so Mr Tebbatt agreed to try to get someone out on Friday 2nd December. The lights still weren’t on to date and the clerk had not been able to contact Mr Tebbatt.

The clerk had telephoned on a daily basis until 19th December 2011, but no one answered the telephone.

It was agreed that the clerk should write to Mr P Hoskin – Environmental Team Manager, LCC, to express the Parish Council’s disappointment regarding the lack of service/feedback.

Hanging Basket Requirement for 2012 – 2014 (3 year fixed contract CJ Springthorpe) : The clerk had formally accepted a 3 year contract, based upon satisfactory performance year 1. @ £ 3186.00 per annum on behalf of the Parish Council.

High Speed Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK): - Mr Sprason stated that the organisation had been set up to deliver the Government’s broadband strategy, bringing superfast broadband up to 20mb to all parts of the UK (currently 8mb). County councils, unitary authorities and Local Enterprise Partnerships could apply for funding by developing a local broadband plan.

Old Timken site, Kirby Muxloe: - Approximately 30LGV’s per hour were now running to and from the site in contravention of the planning regulations. Enforcement Officers were now trying to enforce planning regulations. Mr Sprason stated that the Traffic Highways Management Team were currently undertaking a Traffic Impact Study along the routes presently being used by the LGV’s running to and from the depot. Ongoing.

Miners’ Welfare Institute: - Planning Appeal: 128 Main Street, Markfield: Mr Lay stated that planning officers had recommended a refusal of the planning application because of the adverse impact and loss of amenity on neighbouring properties.

Environmental Improvement Scheme 2012/2013: - Previously

resolved, the Parish Council agreed to set aside £450.00 from its 2012/2013 Capital budget towards the cost of the project.

The Parish Council agreed that the new pump should be installed on the original site, but the pump design should try to replicate the original, in keeping with a conservation area.

The clerk had made enquiries regarding old photographs of the original pump but had been unsuccessful so far.

Mrs Lay agreed to make further enquiries, before Friday 13th January 2012 as Mr Davies needed to progress the project before the end of the financial year.

New Homes Bonus: - Mr Lay stated that it had been agreed that 25% of the bonus should be handed over to parishes and any surplus would go into a Capital Fund for parishes to apply for.

Allotments – Hill Hole site: - Mr Lay stated that the Borough Council had agreed to clear an area of land and fence off to provide an additional 20 allotments.

Funfair – teenage appropriate: A request had been made to allow a funfair to use the Mayflower Close recreation grounds.

Resolved, the parish council could not give permission to allow this type of funfair to use the recreation grounds at Mayflower Close because: 1. Poor vehicular access for anticipated LGV’s and trailers via Neville Drive/Oakfield Avenue to Mayflower Close.

2. Potential damage to equipment and pitches in wet weather caused

by LGV’s and accompanying trailers.

3. Poor access onto and off the land particularly during wet weather.

4. Noise disturbance to neighbouring residential properties surrounding the site.

Further resolved, the Parish Council agreed that a young children’s funfair (under 8 years) wishing to use the hard standing car park area would be given consideration upon application.

Extension of current Wooden Adventure Trail and addition of picnic bench: - 2012/2013 Capital Project - Wooden adventure equipment £6000 – £10000 pending match funding. The clerk would apply for funding from the Parish and Community Initiative Fund before 3rd February 2012.

      





  07957 282677    

Quality Handmade Ironwork 01530-243804

Made to order to your individual design

www.handmade-ironwork.co.uk

When I was at school people used to throw gold bars at me. I was the victim of bullion.

18

Stanton Parish Council December Minutes Below are brief extracts from the unapproved minutes of the Stanton Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 6th December 2011 at The Youth Club, Stanton under Bardon, Leicestershire at 7.00pm

Use Of Recording Equipment No recording equipment can be used to record Parish Council Meetings. Written Note Taking is allowed.

Community Police Comments Burglary Other - Main Street.

Midland Quarry products was broken into on Saturday 3rd December.

County Councillor’s Report Winter Maintenance taking place - LCC to be contacted regarding any problem areas. Radio Leicester is information provider for any snow issues.

Local Schools are currently having meetings with regard to becoming School Academies, where they would be run independently, decisions will be made by Governors of the Schools.

Budget for 2012/13 Precept agreed - £9050.00.

Citizens Advice Bureau Donation No donation to be made.

Clerks CILCA Qualification Agreed that Council would pay Training fee of £150.00. Training taking place in March 2012.

Land rental A resident attended the meeting to ask if the Council would rent out the Grazing land for his daughter. At the present time due to the proposed land developments the Council cannot agree to this.

Stanton Parish Council January Minutes Below are brief extracts from the unapproved minutes of the Stanton Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 10th January 2012 at The Youth Club, Stanton under Bardon, Leicestershire at 7.00pm

Community Police Comments No crime to report.

The beat surgery is now being held in the Police Mobile bus which will be outside the school. Dates to be notified.

The Council informed PC Harlock that there is still an issue with regard to cars parking and obstructing the pavement.

Borough Councillor’s Report The Planning Application for Persimmons Homes will be being put before Planning Committee shortly, the other application for 261 Main Street has been put on hold until a full ecological survey has taken place which should take place late spring/early summer.

There will be changes to the recycling collection as a third dustbin will now be provided for all tins, bottles etc rather then the bags and boxes currently used.

May Day Celebrations Golden Jubilee Committee have asked for permission to use the Recreation Ground for the May Day fete on 6th May 2012. Permission granted as long as Insurance documents provided and that the ground is left as it is found.

So I went to the doctor and he said, ‘You’ve got hypochondria.’ I said, ‘Not that as well.’

19

LETTER

Where was Markfield’s Christmas spirit?

What a shame that the Main Street and surrounding central area in Markfield didn’t show any signs of Christmas happening this year.

I know that, when this letter is published, Christmas will be long gone but we were quite taken aback that other nearby villages had Christmas lights, trees, etc. during the season but Markfield had none.

In nearby Groby, for example, from the village centre and right through the main Leicester Road, lamp-posts were awash with shooting stars, angels, and all sorts of Christmassy symbols - as I understand were other local villages with shop fronts wishing a Merry Christmas to all and sundry - whilst we have a lovely village green that cried out for a fairy light.

Surely if the other councils - Blaby and District, North West Leicestershire, etc. can foot the bill for some seasonal lighting, why can’t ours?

Come on Markfield, where’s your Christmas spirit?

Karen and David Parker

Atkins to host first Wedding Fair Hinckley’s Grade II listed Atkins Building will play host to couples planning a wedding when it holds its first Wedding Fair later this month.

The free event takes place on Saturday 25 February from 10am to 4pm and offers couples planning a wedding or civil ceremony the opportunity to meet face-to-face with an array of independent local wedding suppliers and businesses who could play a part in their day, including suppliers of: • Bespoke bridal wear • Cakes, flowers, stationery and confectionery • Hair styling, nails and beauty • Men’s suits • Photography • Jewellery • Car hire • Entertainment and venue decoration.

There will also be an opportunity to purchase unique crafts and gifts to make that special day stand out.

The Wedding Fair has been arranged to coincide with the open day of Hinckley Register Office, which moved from the former register office on Mount Road to the Atkins Building one year ago.

And to celebrate its first anniversary at Atkins, Hinckley registrars will be holding a free prize draw in which

The Bricklayer’s Arms 213 Main Street, Thornton Tel: 01530 230808 www.bricklayersarms.net

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a prospective couple can win a free ceremony. Registrars will also be on hand to offer tours of Atkins facilities to couples who have not yet booked a venue.

Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council Leader, Councillor Stuart Bray, said: “It is good to see the Atkins Building being used in this way. I would urge anyone planning a ceremony to go along and see what’s on offer from our local independent businesses.”

Entry to the wedding fair is free, no booking is required. For more information contact Rebecca Wilbur, Atkins Business Centre Adviser, on 01455 247070.

I had a cat called Minton who swallowed a shuttlecock. I said ‘Bad Minton!’

20

Celebrity Luncheon with Angela Rippon, OBE, in aid of Rainbows Hospice Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People is delighted to announce that popular TV personality, Angela Rippon, OBE, will be the guest speaker at the charity’s annual celebrity luncheon.

The event will be held at the Leicester Tigers Stadium, Aylestone Road, Leicester on Wednesday 28 March 2012. Doors will open at 11.30am giving guests an hour to enjoy some retail therapy at various stalls within the Tigers suite. BBC Radio Leicester presenter, Dave Andrews will be the Master of Ceremonies.

Angela Rippon has been a familiar face and voice in British broadcasting for 45 years. She will talk about her career, which has embraced an impressive variety of programmes on both radio and television for both commercial and BBC stations in Britain, and for major networks in America and Australia.

Her work has been recognised by the Royal Television Society and she has entered into their Hall of Fame. In 2002 she was voted European Woman of Achievement and in the Queen’s Birthday Honours 2004 she was awarded an OBE. After being trained as a journalist in her home town of Plymouth, Angela was soon appointed as the UK’s first woman newsreader in 1975 and she made two memorable appearances in the Morecambe and Wise Christmas Shows.

She currently presents and appears on Cash in the Attic, Rip Off Britain and The One Show.

Tickets for the luncheon are £35 and are available from Dana Simons, Rainbows Appeal Manager on 01509 638028 or you can visit www. rainbows.co.uk/shop. Tables can seat eight, ten or 12.

Rainbows first opened its doors in 1994 and in April, 1995 HRH Prince of Wales officially opened the Hospice, which was founded by Gail and Harry Moore whose daughter, Laura, died of Leukaemia in 1989.

Since then hundreds of life-limited children, their families, siblings, relatives and friends from across the East Midlands have been cared for and supported by the hospice. They come to visit for specialist respite, palliative and end-of-life care.

Each child receives one-to-one care around the clock from a highly skilled team of children’s nurses supported by doctors experienced in pediatric palliative and end of life care. www.rainbows.co.uk

Beware of Alphabet Grenades… if you throw them, it could spell disaster!

21

Recycling service improved

Letter from Uncle Eustace

On how to have a music festival

A FREE blue lid recycling bin with special inner caddy is being provided to all homes in Hinckley & Bosworth by the Borough Council to replace the current blue box and bags.

The combined use of a ‘wheeled bin with inner caddy’ means that residents can place all recyclable materials together in one place whilst keeping the paper and cardboard separate from the other materials.

This “dual stream” process maximises the quality of the materials collected helping to reduce the cost of the service to the borough, whilst making the sorting, storing and moving of the recycling a much easier and cleaner process for everyone.

Delivery of the new bins starts shortly and it is expected that deliveries to all 46,000 homes across the borough will be complete in April 2012. A leaflet will be delivered with the bin explaining exactly “what goes where” and the new containers can start to be used straight away.

There is no change to collection days and bins should be presented on the usual day.

The blue boxes will be collected by the council when the new bins are delivered to be sent for recycling.

Committed recyclers are welcome to have additional recycling containers. Similarly, for households with less recycling, the bins can be swapped for smaller more compact versions.

If residents have any queries or questions regarding the new service they should contact the council on 01455 238141.

The Rectory St. James the Least My dear Nephew Darren It seemed such an innocent suggestion. A local farmer announced he wanted to arrange a Spring music festival. I could already hear Mozart string quartets being played in our Lady Chapel, and arias from Donizetti operas being sung al fresco in the Glebe field, while we sipped champagne in the warm Spring sunshine and admired the flowers.

Unfortunately, our farmer was thinking of a heavy metal weekend in one of his fields. The teacups began to rattle when village talk turned to portable lavatories, mobile catering vans and using the churchyard for overflow camping space. Then the police arrived to discuss crowd control and drug policy.

At James the Least of All we tend more towards congenial dinner parties with drugs labelled Bollinger or Glenfiddich.

That was the point when Colonel Trubshaw began to search out his old shotgun. His wife even stopped serving coffee after Mattins, in order to patrol the perimeter of their estate with their arthritic spaniel. On the other hand, Miss Little went a little mad. She exchanged her usual tweeds and brogues and pearls for a red bandana, long patchwork dress and peace beads. She must have enjoyed the 1960s.

It was time to take action, so I told our farmer that St. James the Least of All would support him to the hilt. Our ladies would of course do flower arrangements for the stage, and our sidesmen would greet the campers as they arrived. We would provide a full choral Evensong on Friday night, to help set the tone for the weekend. When the farmer gasped something about heavy metal, I was able to reassure him.

“Heavy metal? We’re doing that Saturday morning from about 6am, when our bellringers will give a three hour exhibition of change ringing.” The farmer pleaded something about singing, and I was able to reassure him on that point as well: “On Sunday we’ll do a Songs of Praise, and not to worry, your campers can choose their favourite hymns from ‘Ancient and Modern’.”

I was thanked profusely, but the following week, our dear farmer wrote to tell me he had decided to graze sheep on his field after all. Shame about that.

Your loving uncle,

Eustace

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So I went to the doctor and he said, ‘You’ve got hypochondria.’ I said, ‘Not that as well.’

22

Cross Hills Baptist Church Serving the villages of Thornton & Bagworth plus the surrounding area

Tony & Julie - they are CLUELESS! Have you tuned in to CLUELESS on BBC Radio Leicester on a Sunday morning? It’s absolutely compulsive listening!

The programme takes the form of a Car Treasure Hunt, with Tony Wadsworth broadcasting from the studio and his real-life wife, Julie Mayer, travelling around the county in the Radio Car, solving clues to a series of destinations and trying to track down the ‘treasure’ before the show ends.

The clues are set by a mysterious character known only as ‘The Doctor’ and they are very cryptic.

The first clue is unveiled at the beginning of the show and listeners are encouraged to phone in with their suggestions.

The clever thing about the programme is that the calls are fed through to the studio in random order, and this sometimes results in Julie being sent off in completely the wrong direction!

There’s loads of marital banter between Tony and Julie, and their tempers can get frayed as they try to solve the devious clues.

Some of the suggestions put forward by listeners are very strange - and obviously wrong - but Tony deals with everyone in a courteous way and thanks them for trying to help. Before long, you find yourself shouting at the radio - which is always good fun! But then someone gets through with a gem of information which solves the clue.

It’s a brilliant programme which keeps you listening until the climax - or anti-climax - at 12 noon.

Tune in next Sunday and see if you agree!

Tarquin Vandyke

Avoid being targeted by rogue traders Put your mind at rest and visit the Age UK Business Directory, where you will find a large selection of trustworthy traders and businesses, which have been checked by local Age UK staff who are available to help. www.aubd.co.uk If you do not have a computer, we will happily search the Directory for you - just call us FREE on 0800 5999435

Roy Preston and Mary Farmer

Wycliffe Bible Translators

We have been saddened by the loss of two of our valued church members recently – Roy Preston in December and Mary Farmer, suddenly and unexpectedly, in January.

Stewart Johnson, who has been working for 18 years in East Africa for Wycliffe Bible Translators, spoke at our morning service on Sunday 15th January.

Roy, an excellent musician, was part of our ‘Dynamic Duo’ and used to play the drums at our Fayres and social events. Mary, who was one of our longest standing members, supported Cross Hills in so many ways throughout her life and the strength of her faith was an inspiration to us all. They will both be sadly missed by the church family and everyone who knew them although, as Christian believers, we know that they will now be in Glory with their Lord.

Lent Course This year’s Lent Course, led by our Pastor Garry Kelly, will be starting on Saturday 25th February at Cross Hills Church.

Based on the Beatitudes, it will continue each Saturday for 6 weeks and anyone is welcome to join us. We meet for coffee at 9.45am then the course starts at 10am and finishes by 11.30am. If you need any more details please contact Garry on his number below.

A very warm and interesting young man who lives by faith, he told us of the valuable work that this organisation does in bringing scripture to people in their native languages throughout the world.

He also spoke of the value of living with a Christian faith and outlook in our modern and often frightening world.

Tots Group The Tots sessions are from 1.30pm to 3pm on Thursday afternoons during school term time in our fully carpeted hall at Cross Hills.

With lots of play equipment and activities, anyone is welcome to come along with their tots. A donation of £1 is requested per family which includes tea, coffee or squash. If you need more information please contact Bekki on 01530 231901 or at r.holmes.314@ btinternet.com We look forward to welcoming you to our services during 2012 - for details of the times please see the Church Service Information section in this magazine.

Contact Numbers Pastor: Garry Kelly 07816 616189 Secretary: Lynda Kelly - 07903 774491 Treasurer: Glynis Straw - 01530 230272 Parish Nurse: Vera Harding: 01530 230557

Last night I got thrown out of the casino. I completely misunderstood what the crap table was for.

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I once considered becoming a monk when I was young, but I was cloisterphobic.

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Bagworth and Thornton Parish Council

With Marco For children and young people Admission Free On the pitch behind the Miners Statue Station Road (opposite the three factories) Dates: Monday (6 Feb), Tuesday (7 Feb) and Thursday (9 Feb) each week until Monday (19 March) Tuesday (20 March) and Thursday (22March).

Times: First three weeks, 4.30-5.30 then 4.30-5.30pm: under 10; 5.306.30: over 10.

Funded by Hinckley and Bosworth Well Being Partnership

“Crazy Photography”

By Diane Routex Photographic evidence used to be considered unassailable. How could you argue with the accuracy of a camera?

In these days of Photoshop, digital manipulation and simply the inventive ways that artists are exploring and stretching the boundaries of reality, you can’t always believe what you see.

Diane Routex takes you on a stunning visual journey through the works of 50 international photographers in CRAZY PHOTOGRAPHY. From the nightmare worlds of Yang Yi to the magic landscapes of Barry Underwood, from Di Lu’s giant animals who rampage through cities to the unlikely hybrids of frog plus hippopotamus of Jan Oliehoek, images such as these challenge our perceptions and make us look at the world in a different way.

A chance to explore life’s questions and a lot more about the Christian faith.

Wednesdays until Easter 7.30pm at The Rectory, Markfield More information from Rosemary on 242844

Churches Together in Markfield

Appearances are not everything, it just looks like they are.

25

County Councillor’s Report from David Sprason The Price of Dignity The way our society responds to the needs of older people and those with disabilities and mental health needs is an indication of the kind of country we live in.

For those of us in local government, there is a great responsibility not only to make the right decisions for our area, but also talk to central government about what our priorities should be. As council representatives, we call on the Government to follow the advice of the Dilnot Commission on funding social care. Social care is expensive and, with people living longer, the difficulty of providing quality care should not be underestimated. But concerns about money are not a reason to hesitate; they are a spur to take action. Not only is the current system unfair, it will also be more costly in future.

It is therefore disappointing that occasionally some Councillors stray into areas they have little or no experience in an attempt to make a valid point regarding social responsibility. The current local debate concerns who should pay for public sector services. The options are; increasing the burden on every local taxpayer who pick up the whole cost of the service or the individual service user contributing towards the cost of the service. With the current and past state of the national public finances all public authorities, as highlighted by Derek Wanless, have over the past five years had to opt for the latter.

This debate of course depends on your point of view or whether you are in a leadership role or an opposition role. I would argue that taking the opposition position is an easier role as it does not require any real decisions to be taken.

Those who oppose change do however have a role in holding the decision makers to account. This can be done by putting forward alternatives or through the scrutiny of decisions or plans. The decision makers in leadership roles also have a responsibility to make sure that any consequences to change are well explored and argued. I would also stress the importance that every elected member, particularly in difficult financial times, has a clear responsibility to their community they represent in making sure that tax funded council services deliver value for money and keep local taxation to a minimum.

Personal Social Care is one of those services that many people have little knowledge about until you or

a member of your family need a package of care; one in four of us will require some kind of personal social care. Very few people realise that unlike health care personal social care is means tested. In other words if an individual has savings of £23,500 the service is charged for using an hourly rate. The plan that Leicestershire have adopted was to invest in prevention using a joint health and social care reablement team. The reablement service is provided for up to six weeks and is free of charge. This helps people regain skills and confidence in their own homes after a short illness.

Those who then need a continuing package of home care are means tested and if they can afford to pay are charged an hourly rate, in Leicestershire this is £12.86 per hour which is below the national average rate of £13.50 per hour.

Those individuals who are unable to pay for their care are covered by the County Council this is currently 33% of people with a care package (4,000 service users). The investment in homecare services has resulted in less people going into a costly residential/nursing care setting or requiring a long term care package.

The impact on an individual’s funds of going into residential care are greater as all of their assets are counted this includes a person’s home, savings, benefits etc. So should you find yourself needing to go into residential/nursing care then all your assets including your home are used to pay for your care.

The percentage of the cost the individual pays for the service has been increasing over the past six years as demand increased and government funding reduced, in fact the government funding increased by only 0.5% over the 13 years of the previous government.

This has left the County Council and the individual to pick up the shortfall in funding estimated at £6.5 billion nationally. As individuals we can insure ourselves against financial risk property, contents, car, health, holidays, life and our homes. Social Care is the only area of financial risk that an individual is unable to affordably insure themselves against yet has the biggest impact.

The need to limit the cost to the individual requires a radical reform of the funding of social care it is clear that the current system is unsustainable. The same arguments were played out in 2006 when Gordon Brown commissioned Derek Wanless to look at the issue.

He recommended a similar option to Andrew Dilnot, Wanless also highlighted that the system was unfair and needed urgent reform as it was unsustainable, identifying a funding gap nationally of £6 billion.

The report was ignored by the then Government and was demoted to the drawer marked too difficult to resolve leaving the individual and local tax payers to bridge the funding gap. Local government at the time presented a coherent argument that the system was stretched and moving towards crisis, the Government dismissed this as scaremongering, history now proves local government was right.

So it is encouraging that the current Government is looking at the issue and has already diverted funding from NHS budgets into social care. This amounted to £7.5 million in the current year and has helped meet this increased demand and allowed the County Council to freeze its charges. It has also allowed the County Council to invest in preventative services such as the free home assessment reablement service. This service has clear evidence of keeping people independent for longer and prevents people going into a high cost residential care setting.

We also welcomed six years later the Government commissioning Andrew Dilnott to look into the funding of social care in England and how a more affordable fairer system could be introduced. In December the commission reported back to the Government with a number of recommendations on how England could have a fairer funded personal care system. The key recommendations include a cap on the amount the individual will be required to pay set at £35,000 to £50,000, the amount of savings to be lifted from £23,000 to £100,000 and a fee for hotel costs in a residential setting. Proposals also include a national substantial eligibility criteria and a single national transferable care assessment. The introduction of a cap would then stimulate the financial market to introduce schemes where an individual could for the first time insure themselves against this financial risk. Local Government are lobbying very hard to make sure that the Social Care White Paper in the spring features

all of the Dilnot recommendations.

So the dignity of older people and of adults who need social care should not be at risk because a solution has not been put in place. The Dilnot commission has found a workable solution that balances financial concerns with respect for elderly and vulnerable people. I believe public investment in care is necessary to protect what Dr John Sentamu, the Archbishop of York, has called “our nations humanity”, and the dignity of older people in Britain.

Schools Academy Status In the January issue of the Herald extracts from the December Markfield Parish Council Meeting were published.

In the extracts of the meeting it wrongly quoted me as saying that “the Governors of South Charnwood had agreed to put forward the proposals for academy status to parents for consultation”. I had in fact said; “that governors at South Charnwood had agreed to meet to discuss academy status and that the process set out by Government would require consultation with parents before an academy could be agreed”.

I have no control over how the minutes of Parish meetings are recorded and shortened extracts rarely capture an accurate reflection on what was said.

The Century Theatre - Coalville The spring season at The Century Theatre continues with a rip roaring tribute to Bon Jovi as Bon Jovi UK take to the stage with all the exuberance of the long haired eighties rockers on Saturday 18th February.

Tickets Advance £13 door £15.

On Saturday 25th February we welcome none other than Sherlock Holmes in The Supernatural Adventures of Sherlock Holmes in which Holmes and Watson wrestle against the forces of darkness in the adaptation of three of Conan Doyle’s lesser known tales. Tickets: advance £8 Door £10 www.dontgointothecellar.com To book tickets for either of these events call: 01530 278444 email: centurytheatre@leics.gov.uk or purchase tickets at the reception at Snibston during museum opening hours. More information can also be found on: www.centurytheatre.co.uk

We are all time travellers moving at the speed of exactly 60 minutes per hour.

26

USA WORDSEARCH find 12 American States in the Wordsearch puzzle below, and you could win yourself a meal.

Word Search Puzzle

This month we are offering a prize of:

A Main Course for Two plus A Bottle of House Wine at The Field Head Hotel To go into the draw, all you have to do is find - and mark a line through - 12 American States. These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!).

Send your entry to: STATESIDE, The Herald, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by WEDNESDAY 29TH FEBRUARY 2012.

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 Field Head Hotel.

Good luck!

Subscriber Login Passcode/New Users

Here are the 12 AMERICAN STATES

Help

you have to find:

STORE

ALABAMA • CALIFORNIA • DELAWARE • FLORIDA GEORGIA • HAWAII • INDIANA • KENTUCKY LOUISIANA • MINNESOTA • NEBRASKA • OKLAHOMA

N B Z Z Z O P L C B I K S O C

I C A L I F O R N I A D P M N

E A E W P X A M R A X Z D E C

L T A R G T D W I I Y K B R K

U O N D A J A G O N T R G U O

A S A I H W R L A W A P L C K

V E I C I O A N A S B K I H L

K N D O E A A L K B O P I S A

I N N G Z I W A E L A F Y E H

P I I W S F T A F D W M Z8 P O

th

Z P E L Y M R O Q K Z U F J C I F B R U Q L I G T B O D D N G R Z U E X I E J K H D R U Z E A E N Q Q X X G I H C O N D Page 95 x 65mm A advert: E U T G I R Q N X M A N N J

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

ALABAMA CALIFORNIA DELAWARE ..............................................................................................................

FLORIDA GEORGIA ..............................................

Postcode: ................................................

HAWAII INDIANA KENTUCKY Last issue’s Wordsearch winner!

LOUISIANA The first correct entry drawn out of the hat last month came from: MINNESOTA Mrs B.Chapman of Chitterman Way, Markfield.

NEBRASKA Congratulations! Your Meal & Wine Voucher to spend at the Field Head OKLAHOMA Hotel will be sent to you in the next 21 days.

Bagworth & Thornton NHW Let’s all start the New Year by working together as a community to keep our villages safe places to live.

We can do this by joining a NHW Group or starting one of our own with our neighbours. There is very little involved and by joining or starting a group it helps to keep us all safe and aware of what is happening locally in relation to general community issues as well as community safety.

So if you live in Bagworth or Thornton please contact me on the details below to find out how to join or start a group.

I work closely with the community and police to ensure we do our upmost to keep our communities a safe place to live, I need your help for this to continue in 2012!

Anita Beeby

Neighbourhood Watch Development Officer m: 07972 610886 e: nwdo@btinternet.com

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My divorce came to me as a complete surprise. That’s what happens when you haven’t been home in 18 years.

27

Deal Or No Deal Love Week The Dream Factory is celebrating Valentine’s Day with a week of themed episodes paying homage to the 80’s starting Monday 13th February on Channel 4.

The dry ice and disco ball will be making a comeback as Noel Edmonds leads the contestants through a myriad of 80’s treasures as they attempt to beat the Banker on Deal or No Deal: 80’s Love Mix. During the Love Week specials, there will be a twist in store as each player gets to choose someone in the wings who they love, to wear the all powerful love mix cassette which enables the player to receive an offer when that box is opened and gives the wearer the opportunity to win a holiday.

Since its launch in 2005, Deal or No Deal has crowned four quartermillionaires, and in October 2011 for the first time ever in the programme’s history, Channel 4 aired 12 hour-long live shows.

Boppers - £1 For parents with babies aged 0-2yrs Come and join in a fun packed music & movement class followed by a good old natter.

Refreshments available Places are limited please book in advance

Not dressed YET?!

When do you get dressed on a Saturday morning?

It seems that millions of us don’t get dressed at all. Instead, we are so exhausted by the demands of our working week that we lounge around the house in our pyjamas until midday. One in five adults spend Saturday mornings in their pyjamas either dozing in bed, watching TV, going online, or reading a book.

In fact, a third of us are so ‘shattered’ by the end of the week, that we seek solace in watching TV for hours on end. As one researcher pointed out: “It is hard to juggle all the demands of our daily lives.”

Premier Inn, who did the research, observes: “recharging the batteries is important.”

Contact: Miss Keely-Anna Tel: 07500554736 Website: www.keelyanna.co.uk Starts Friday 17th February 9:30-11am More classes available: Dancing Tots, Football Tots, R.A.D Ballet, Tap, Funky Dance, Boys Street Dance and Fitness!

I don’t understand people who say life is a mystery, because what is it they want to know?

28

Local Church Service Information

Without Walls Christian Fellowship, 135 Main St Stanton Under Bardon Sunday Feb 12th Meeting at 10 am with guest speaker & Junior Church provided Sunday Feb 19th Meeting at 10am with Junior Church provided Sunday Feb 26th Special Family meeting with Breakfast at 9.30 am.

Fun, food & relaxation for all the family!

Sunday March 4th Meeting at 10am with Junior church provided

Sunday March 11th Meeting at 10am.

Markfield Congregational Church

Trinity Methodist Church, Markfield

Sunday 11th March 10.30 am All Age Service 6.00 pm Holy Communion

Sunday 12th February 10.30am Morning Communion Service 4.00pm Café Church Worship

Friday 16th March 8.00 pm Taizé Style Service

Sunday 19th February 10.30am United Service at Methodist Church 6.00pm Evening Communion Service 1st Sunday in Lent 26th February 10.30am Morning Service 6.00pm Taizé Style Service Sunday 4th March 10.30am Morning Communion Service 6.00pm Evening Service Sunday 11th March 10.30am Morning Service 4.00pm Café Church Worship

Sunday 12 February 10.15am Morning Worship followed

by Communion

Mothering Sunday 18th March 10.30am Morning Service 6.00pm No Evening Service

Sunday 19 February 10.30am Markfield Churches Together United Service at Trinity Methodist Church

Sunday 25th March 10.30am Morning Service 6.00pm Taizé Style Service

Sunday 26 February 10.15am Morning Worship Sunday 4 March 10.15am Morning Worship Sunday 11 March 10.15am Morning Worship

Cross Hills Baptist Church, between Bagworth & Thornton Sunday 12th February 10.30am Morning Service with The Lord’s Supper Sunday 19th February 10.30am Morning Service

St Michael and All Angels’ Church, Markfield 10:15-11.30am Sunday Club for Children in the Congregational Hall on the 1st, 3rd, 4th and 5th Sundays, term time All Age Service in Church on the 2nd Sunday each month.

Sunday 12th February 10.30 am All Age Service 6.00 pm Holy Communion Friday 17th February 8.00 pm Taizé Style Service

Sunday 26th February 10.30am Morning Service

Sunday 19th January 10.30 am Churches Together in Markfield Service at Trinity Methodist Church 6.00pm Evening Prayer

Sunday 4th March 10.30am Morning Service

Wednesday 22nd February 7.30 pm Ash Wednesday Communion

Sunday 11th March 10.30am Morning Service with The Lord’s Supper

Sunday 26th February 8.00 am Holy Communion 10.30 am Open Church 6.00pm Evening Prayer

There is a Sunday Club in our hall for children & young people during the Morning Service. For further details, our contact list is in the Cross Hills News section in this magazine.

Sunday 4th March 10.30 am Holy Communion

How many words does it take?

Pythagorean Theorem: ………………............................………….. 24 words.

Lord’s Prayer:………………………..................……………………. 66 words.

Archimedes’ Principle: ……………………….....................…….… 67 words.

Ten Commandments: …………………….....................……….… 179 words.

Gettysburg address: ……………………....................………….… 286 words.

US Declaration of Independence : ……...........................…..... 1,300 words.

US Constitution with all 27 Amendments: .................................7,818 words.

EU regulations on the sale of cabbages:……............................26,911 words.

Puts things into proper perspective, doesn’t it?

Sunday 18th March 10.30 am Churches Together in Markfield Mothering Sunday Service 6.00pm Evening Prayer Sunday 25th March 8.00 am Holy Communion 10.30 am Open Church 6.00pm Evening Prayer

St Mary and All Saints’ Church, Stanton under Bardon Sunday 12th February 10.30 am Morning Service Sunday 19th February 10.30 am “Something Different” Sunday 26th February 10.30 am Holy Communion Sunday 4th March 10.30 am Morning Service Sunday 11th March 10.30 am Morning Service Sunday 18th March 10.30 am “Something Different”

Sunday 26th February 10.30 am Family Service Sunday 4th March 10.30 am Morning Service Sunday 11th March 10.30 am Holy Communion Sunday 18th March 9.00 am Holy Communion Sunday 25th March 10.30 am Family Service

Holy Rood Church, Bagworth Please note: Services will be at Bagworth Community Centre Sunday 4th March 9.00 am Holy Communion

St Peter’s Church, Copt Oak Sunday 12th February 9.15 am Holy Communion Sunday 19th February 3.00 pm Praise Service Sunday 26th February 6.00 pm Holy Communion Sunday 4th March 6.00 pm Evening Prayer Sunday 11th March 9.15 am Holy Communion

Sunday 25th March 10.30 am Holy Communion

St Peter’s Church, Thornton Sunday 12th February 10.30 am Holy Communion Sunday 19th February 9.00 am Holy Communion

Grandmas - The Superwomen of Britain She’s a childminder who really cares, a teacher, a local friendly bank, a counsellor... without her, many modern families would fall apart. She’s your child’s grandmother.

Something like 48 per cent of all grannies now child-mind their grandchildren for at least 20 hours per week. A quarter of grannies child-mind for more than 25 hours a week. And one in ten grannies are childminding a staggering 40 hours a week.

In all, our grannies save us £2 billion a year in childminding costs. But grannies don’t stop there. Six out of ten grandparents often go without things for themselves, in order to finance their children and grandchildren.

A third of grandparents can struggle to pay heating bills and council tax, never mind afford a holiday – because overwhelmingly they are putting their family’s needs before their own.

The average granny babysits 42 times a year, and a quarter of grannies babysit every week.

What does all this child-minding do for granny? Keeps her young!

Grannies who care for grandchildren feel a whopping 14 years younger than their actual age.

A committee is twelve men doing the work of one.

29

Herald Film Review from Tom Flowitt

War Horse

(12A)

Starring: Jeremy Irvine and Benedict Cumberbatch 146 Minutes

On the eve of war, a young lad from Devon, Albert Narracott (Irvine), and his horse Joey think their life is about as hard as it gets as they struggle to make ends meet on Albert’s father’s farm. When war breaks out Joey is taken into the care of a British officer where he is thrust right into the middle of the First World War. The first thing I would say is not to be put off by the fact it is on for well over two hours, as it really does go by in a flash (I was genuinely surprised afterwards when I saw how long it had been on for). This is mainly due to the episodic nature of the film as Joey goes from owner to owner. In reality this is a number of short films that are held together solely by each characters relationship with a horse, a brave move indeed and one that pays off.

There are moments that you will either be genuinely touched by or simply roll your eyes at, the line is very thin. I think anyone who sees this though will find it very difficult indeed not to be moved at some point. Will you cry?

All I can say is that I didn’t (but Christ I was close to!)

This is at its heart a family film so scenes showing the reality of the First World War are clearly out of bounds and as such it is only ever suggested.

The suggestion of the horror though is far more moving than actually showing it raw. The cavalry charge scene with rider less horses, whose owners had not survived the volley of machine gun fire, is an incredible achievement.

Jeremy Irvine, if you can excuse his accent (think Farmer Giles magnified many, many times) is as exceptional as his equine friend. All of the supporting cast play their parts well, so much so you often don’t want their particular story to end as soon as it does.

Overall: Worthy of all the plaudits and right up there with Spielberg’s best which is astonishing considering the main star of the film is a horse.

HHHHI Nine Days To Armageddon: The End Is Nigh Mike Carter £17.99 Hardback

What if all the 21.12.12 disaster predictions started to come true?

It’s twelve days to Christmas ... but only nine days to Armageddon.

Beneath the Greenlandic ice cap a geological time bomb is about to explode - an ancient piece of tectonic plate is pushing towards the Earth’s surface, threatening to displace the Arctic Ocean and to unleash a devastating mega-tsunami across the unsuspecting planet...

In London and Reykjavik an international terrorist plot is rapidly unfolding.

A G20 Summit is about to take place in the Icelandic capital and a vengeful Muslim convert is planning the most heinous of crimes...

As the twin apocalypses collide, scientists, policemen, world leaders and ordinary families alike are all swept up in the terrifying cataclysm.

The end is nigh!

Yorkshire-born Mike Carter began his career as a research scientist, having gained a Ph.D. from the University of East Anglia. He later turned to accountancy and achieved success as the group financial controller of a financial services group. With his retirement and a move to Guernsey he was finally able to fulfil a lifelong dream of becoming a full-time writer - Nine Days to Armageddon is his first novel.

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

~ Forthcoming Events ~ Friday, 17th February - Film Night – ‘One Day’ (12A). Based on David Nicholls’s hugely loved bestseller. After spending the night together on the night of their college graduation, Dexter and Em are shown each year on the same date to see where they are in their lives. They are sometimes together, sometimes not, on that day. Doors, Box Office and Licensed Bar open at 7.00pm. Film starts at 7.30pm.

Tickets: £4.00/£3.00 from Halls, High Street, Ibstock, Tel: 01530 260460.

Saturday, 18th February - Palace Valentine Social Dance – A very popular evening of Ballroom, Latin, and Sequence with Eddie ‘The Collector’, (D J and host). Doors/ box office/bar open at 7.00pm.

Dancing from 7.30pm ‘till 11.00pm.

Tickets: £5.00 from Halls, High Street, Ibstock, Tel: 01530 260460.

Friday, 24th February - Skittles evening with supper provided.

7.30pm start. For more details Telephone: 01530 267303 Sunday, 26th February – Palace Indoor Car boot Sale from 9.00am – 2.00pm. Pick up a bargain!

Admission 20p.

Saturday, 3rd March - The Palace Craft & Gift Fair from 10.00am until 3.00pm. FREE ADMISSION. Large variety of interesting stalls including; Jewellery, wooden toys, hand-knitted goods, ceramics, cookies, books, bags PLUS craft supplies, Fair-Trade and much more...

Saturday, 3rd March - The Palace Craft & Gift Fair from 10.00am until 3.00pm. FREE ADMISSION. Large variety of interesting stalls including; Jewellery, wooden toys, handknitted goods, ceramics, cookies, books, bags PLUS craft supplies, Fair-Trade and much more....

Ability is a good thing but stability is even better.

Friday, 9th March – Ibstock Events Group present, international organist, Nicholas Martin in concert in aid of Ibstock Methodist Chapel. Tickets: £6.00 from Halls, Ibstock, Tel: 01530 260460.

Saturday, 10th March – New Orleans Hot Shots Jazz Band in concert playing their own unique brand of traditional jazz. Although inspired by a wide variety of bands from the Classic 1920’s period up to the 40’s and 50’s revival, they base many arrangements on the original sounds of Armstrong, Morton, Oliver and Piron. Doors/box office/bar open at 7.00pm. Starts at 7.30pm. Tickets: £7.00 from Halls, High Street, Ibstock, Tel: 01530 260460.

Friday, 16th March – Film Night – ‘Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy’ (PG).

In the bleak days of the Cold War, espionage veteran George Smiley is forced from semi-retirement to uncover a Soviet agent within MI6’s echelons. Starring Gary Oldman and Colin Frith. Doors, Box Office and Licensed Bar open at 7.00pm.

Film starts at 7.30pm. Tickets: £4.00/£3.00 from Halls, High Street, Ibstock, Tel: 01530 260460.

Friday, 23rd March – Palace Line Dance with Honky Tonk Cliff. Dancing from 7.45pm. Doors, Box Office and Licensed Bar open at 7.00pm.

Tickets: £4.00 from Hall, Ibstock, Tel: 01530 260460.

30

Library News Snippets Bulk book buy saves libraries thousands!

Buying books in bulk with other councils has saved Leicestershire County Council’s Libraries Service £70,000.

The county council is working with other authorities as part of the Mid-Anglian book purchasing consortium. This means that by working in partnership to make large book orders, councils are able to make significant savings.

The consortium is made up of councils from Leicestershire, Rutland, Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and Lincolnshire.

By pooling together library book funds, the consortium has used its joint spending power to drive higher discounts on books purchased for local library bookshelves. This has enabled the County Council’s libraries service to deliver a saving of £70,000 whilst maintaining the same number of new titles added to stock.

David Sprason, Leicestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Communities said: “The council is always looking to find new and better ways of providing services that offer good value for money for the people of Leicestershire. Bulk buying our books means that not only are we saving thousands of pounds, but we are doing so by still being able to deliver the high quality of stock that our library users want and are used to.”

New eBook Service launched at Leicestershire’s libraries Leicestershire County Council’s Library Services has launched a new, free eBook Service for library members.

There are no charges to borrow an eBook or reserve a title, and eBooks are never returned late. Library members can borrow up to 3 eBooks at one time, borrow or reserve them for free and can choose to keep them for any length of time from one to 21 days.

This service is only available to Leicestershire library members and is accessible only through Leicestershire Library Services website by visiting: www.leics.gov.uk/ebooks The eBook Service provides a range of fiction titles for adults and children, and non fiction titles for adults. Popular titles include:Michael McIntyre’s Life and Laughing, Lee Child’s DieTrying and Jacqueline Wilson’s The Longest Whalesong The eBook service is easy to use and is compatible with most eBook readers in the market except Amazon’s Kindle.

For more information please visit your local library.

Crime Fiction Award – The Dagger in the Library 2012 Do you love crime fiction? Do you feel that your favourite writer is one who doesn’t get the rewards they should?

Well if they are British, and they are still alive and kicking, you could change all that. The Dagger in the Library is not an award for best-sellers – it is an award for up and coming authors or library favourites who YOU think are not as well known as they should be.

So get involved today and vote for your unheralded favourite. Nominations are now open, but they must be sent in by library staff, so contact your local library and ask them to nominate your favourite. Find out more, and get a copy of the nomination form.

Last year’s winner was the wonderful Mo Hayder.

It would be a crime not to get involved!!

If you’ve enjoyed reading this issue of The Herald, please pass it on to a friend or relative when you’ve finished with it.

It’s good to share! Thanks.

The Bulls Head Forest Road, Markfield T: 01530 242541 Sat 25th Feb: JOHN STACEY Garden & Pub Games etc.

The Queen’s Head Ashby Road, Markfield.

T: 01530 242 496 Sat 3rd March: Jan’s 14-Year Bash Sat 10th March: Karaoke with MARK ALL SKY SPORTS & ESPN The Bricklayers Arms 213 Main Street Thornton T: 01530 230 808 QUIZ Nite: Thursdays www.bricklayersarms.net The Club, Thornton Main Street.

T: 01530 230251 Open to Non-Members Sat 11th Feb: The Cabstars Sat 18th Feb: Charity Evening With ‘The Upbeatles’ and ‘ELVIS’ To Raise Money For Thornton Church. For More Info Telephone Diane 01530 230123 Or Karen 01530 230631 Sat 25th Feb: The Freeze rock covers band Sat 3rd March: Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute Band £5 admission.

ALL SKY SPORTS AND ESPN www.myspace.com/ thorntonclub

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

Tel. 01530 230205

New members Welcome 2012 membership now due.

Live entertainment – last Saturday of the month Andy’s charity quiz – last Friday of the month £1.50 each Sequence Dance - Sunday nights 8pm £1 admission.

Tea Dance - Wednesday 2-4 pm £1 admission Charity Dance - Friday 17th February Dance Phil Brown on the keyboards. 8 pm admission £2.50 Saturday night dance – 3rd March 8 pm £1 admission For further details, tel: 01530 230205

The Field Head Hotel Markfield Lane, Markfield Tel: 01530 245454 Tribute Nights/£2 Entry after 7pm.

Fri 10th Feb: LIONEL RITCHIE Fri 24th Feb: CHER Fri 9th March: PHIL COLLINS Fri 23rd March: 80s TRIBUTE Fri 6th April: MOTOWN SOUL Quiz Nite: 2nd Tues of Month (See Advert on page 26) The Coach & Horses Leicester Road, Field Head Tel: 01530 242 312 KARAOKE Nights:Sat 28th January (’King of the Road’) (See Advert Page 4)

Ratby Village Society Ratby Village Society meetings start at 8pm in the Village Hall, Main Street, Ratby, on the third Tuesday monthly except July and December when there are no meetings.

The AGM takes place in February.

Admission for members is £1.60 and casual guests £2.50 with refreshments included.

Tuesday 20th March - Brian Leader and Dawn Tudor talk on ‘First Steps to Researching your Family History’ including information and advice on photo scanning and restoration for damaged photos. This can be done without having the negatives or causing damage to the originals.

Please bring a notebook and pencil with you.

People tend to make rules for others and exceptions for themselves.

31

Could YOU offer a loving home to a Redgate cat?

R edgate Farm Animal Sanctuary currently have 3 cats who are in real need of loving new forever homes.

They are Jasmine, Dickie and Big Boy. Please take the time to read their appeals. If you think you can help them by offering them a new start in life, then please call the sanctuary on 01530 243925.

We are open 7 days a week 10 – 4pm for visits.

Alternatively their information is also on our website at www.redgatefarmanimalsanctuary.co.uk

Hello! We are Big Boy & Dickie!

Our much loved owner sadly passed away recently, but the kind people at Redgate Farm animal sanctuary are now looking after us, until we can find a nice, peaceful, loving home we can call our own.

Please let us introduce ourselves…

We are about 12 years old. I am Big Boy the large, soppy Ginger cat, and this is my best friend Dickie who is completely blind, but please don’t let this put you off. All we ask is for a loving new home we can both retire to, with creature comforts, such as a warm cosy bed, and some lovely food to look forward to; wet food is best for us as we don’t have all our teeth, but we have both just had a dental check-up, and our coats are in tip-top condition. We love gentle fuss and attention and enjoy sitting on laps and getting the care we deserve.

Softly spoken words reassure my friend Dickie that you are there, before you pick him up or fuss him. It also makes life easier for Dickie if the furniture etc is kept in the same place so he can learn his way around by “touch”.

We would very much like to find a new home very soon, could this be with you? Please come and visit us at the sanctuary Tel: 01530 243925

And I am Jasmine!

Gentle little Jasmine has been with us at the sanctuary for a year now.

She is a 7 year old quiet cat, and enjoys the company of human friends (adults rather than children) and also her own company too. She may appear shy at first but with time, love and patience she would truly be a friend for life:) Jasmine has mouth ulcers which continue to flare up so she will always have long-term medication, which is put in her food once a day to keep her mouth comfortable so she can eat and enjoy all the treats we give her at the sanctuary She is ideally looking for a loving new home she can call her own, to settle down in and grow old in. Jasmine’s wish list is....

• A warm cosy bed • Lots of love and attention • An understanding owner to always be aware of her medical needs and any changes P.S - She does appreciate the finer cat foods - the tastier and smellier the better:) If you can offer Jasmine the new start in life she so greatly needs, please come to visit her and give her a fuss.

A member of staff will introduce you to her. Jasmine will eagerly await your visit:)

There is no time like the present for postponing what you ought to be doing.

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