January 2018 groby spotlight magazine online by Michael Wilkinson

TO CONTACT GROBY SPOTLIGHT: TELEPHONE: 01530 244069 OR EMAIL: INFO@GROBYSPOTLIGHT.CO.UK

Robbery at Cathy Stephens Jewellery

Groby in the December snow

THE CATHY STEPHENS Jewellery store and workshop was the victim of another robbery on the evening of Tuesday 19 December. Police were called to the shop in Ratby Road just before 5.30pm after four men entered the premises wearing balaclavas. They were armed, carrying an axe and a crowbar. The axe was recovered from the scene. Pippa Stephens, who helps run the business started by her mum Cathy and dad Michael, told the Leicester Mercury that she was helping to close up for the day when the robbers arrived. “It was five or ten minutes before we were due to close and these guys came running in with their balaclavas and their axes. There were five of them in total - one in the car outside, one who stood in the door and three who just started smashing the cabinets. This is not the first time we have been robbed. It is unfortunately just a part of being in the jewellery business but we have security systems. We activated the panic buttons and the room filled up with smoke and the shutters came down. The system is set up to get them out and it worked. They were only in for 30 seconds - 30 mad seconds - and they left.” The thieves broke three cabinets and took some engagement rings as well as some of Cathy’s distinctive hand-made jewellery. They won’t be able to sell it on, they’ll have to break it up.” The suspects left the store in a red Ford Focus, which was recovered from Foxglove Drive, Groby, later the same evening. A crowbar was recovered from the car. Staff were inside the store at the time of the incident, but were not injured. However, they are understandably shaken. DS Jason Fell, who’s leading the enquiries, said: “We are currently in the process of carrying house to house enquiries and trawling through CCTV from the local area. From enquiries we’ve conducted so far it’s believed there may have been pedestrians and motorists in Foxglove Drive at the time the getaway car was left there. If you witnessed that or saw any suspicious activity in the area please get in touch. We also know there were a number of vehicles and people in the area at the time the men entered, and left, the store. If you were in Ratby Road around 5.30pm please come forward. Having as much information as we can at this vital stage of the investigation is very important.” Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101, quoting quoting incident number 454 of 19 December.

Norman Griffiths

Local photographer Mike Pratt was up early on the snowy Sunday in December and managed to capture some excellent shots of the village. We’ve included more of Mike’s work inside this issue.

Have a Go workshops with a difference at Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation REGISTERED CHARITY Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation, who provide support, care and friendship wellbeing services will be launching new activity sessions in 2018. The new monthly have a go workshops will provide the opportunity for attendees to learn a new skill, try something different and make friends in a supportive and inclusive setting. Helen Baxter, Activities coordinator at the Foundation said, ‘We are delighted to have been granted funding from Charnwood Borough Council to provide our taster workshops. ‘The sessions will be FREE of charge and will take place on the third Monday of the month throughout 2018 from 10.00am – 12.00noon. Each activity will provide a wonderful opportunity to meet new people and enjoy trying out something with a difference! We would love to welcome you so why not come along, have a go….! ‘The sessions are suitable for all ages and abilities, try out belly dancing, glass fusing, Nordic walking, calligraphy, pilates and more!’ Details of the sessions will be available to view at www.shuttlewood-clarke.org in the New Year. Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis – For more information please call Helen Baxter on 01530 244914 or email helen@shuttlewood-clarke.org

NEXT ISSUE OUT ON 17TH FEBRUARY 2018 - ARTICLES & ADVERT DEADLINE: 3RD FEBRUARY 2018

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Christmas Day For Those Alone EVERYONE who attended Christmas day for those alone in Anstey and surrounding villages had a great day, volunteers and guests alike.

Call to find 70 new A DRIVE to encourage more people to become adopters and transform the lives of Leicestershire children has been launched.

We catered for 84 people! All guests had a lovely 5 course Christmas dinner, a present each and a goody bag with lots of yummy treats. We enjoyed great entertainment with Nigel on his squeeze box doing a Christmas sing along and of course several games of BINGO! We would like to thank all the volunteers who came forward to help both prior to the day and on the day whether that be the initial planning, securing funds, setting up the room, wrapping presents, putting up posters, providing transport, hosting a table, and last but so very much not least all those involved in the catering. The meal was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone and catering for 84 is not an easy task! A very grateful thanks to the companies etc.. who support us – to Next for again donating all the lovely presents for everyone, Anstey Parish Council, S J Langton Butchers in Glenfield for all the yummy cheese, Roots and fruits, Roy Greens, J.H property maintenance, ASW Anstey, Sainsburys local in LFE, Morrisons, Pladis Wigston for the biscuits, Aldi, Midlands CO-OP, Yorkshire Tea, Percol coffee, Tescos. Many thanks to all who have donated money and goods themselves, my friends, work colleagues and local people who donate what they can, everything helps - small or large - and all donations have helped make the day very special. Thanks also to St Mary’s Church, Anstey who don’t charge anywhere near the full amount for hiring the room and without the room this couldn’t go ahead so thanks very much for the use of the room once again. Thanks for reading and a happy New Year.

Kerry Sharpe

Leicestershire County Council have 34 children in their care who need adopters to offer them a loving, permanent ‘Forever home’. These include babies, pre-school children, older children and children with disabilities or health issues. The council is hoping to recruit 70 adopters this year to help meet the need. Anyone can be considered, including people on their own or in a relationship, working or not working. You can adopt regardless of your race, religion, sexual orientation or financial situation - and time is spent matching children to families who can meet their needs. Josh* and Adam* adopted their son Oscar* (names have been changed) through the council when he was just seven months old. Josh said: “We’d always wanted a family and decided to embrace changes in legislation made a few years ago that enable same sex couples to adopt. “We went along to one of the council’s adoption information events, which was really useful as we got hear first-hand the experiences of people who had already adopted, as well as ask questions. “We had been thinking about adoption for a while, but the event made us realise it was

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Leicestershire adopters

something we really wanted, and were ready, to do. “We were a bit concerned about the process, but we found the council to be very supportive. The training was really good and provided us with a wealth of information and we valued having a good, supportive social worker. “It’s been absolutely amazing having Oscar in our lives. We love him very much and live our lives through him. Every day is different and it’s really exciting seeing him develop.” Adoption is a lifelong commitment and is about providing a child in care who cannot return home with a permanent and secure ‘Forever family’. Councillor Ivan Ould, cabinet member for children and families said: “Adoption can transform lives; both for our adopters and for the children in our care who need loving, permanent ‘forever families’. “We’ve a friendly team who can explain a bit more about the process and answer any queries you may have. We also hold regular ‘find out about adoption’ events. You are welcome to come along and hear from people who have adopted with us before and meet some of the team.”

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It is not The Nottingham’s or Harrison Murray’s policy to accept instructions where there is a Sole Agency Agreement in existence, until that agreement has expired or is terminated.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Cat and ugly duckling news

from Lindy Hardcastle

WE DON’T know exactly how old our young cat Peter is. We acquired him early last spring when he was clearly still a young kitten and allocated him an official birthday of January 1st. I am writing this on New Year’s Eve, so as you can imagine Peter is getting very excited about tomorrow’s party. It’s difficult to know how to make the day special for a cat as cosseted and spoilt as Peter. Venison, perhaps? Caviar? He and his arch enemy Olaf come up with the breakfast tray. Olaf goes to David’s side of the bed, Peter to mine for their customary chicken. Similarly, when they hear the rattle of cutlery as the table is set for dinner, they jump up onto their respective chairs on either side of us. It’s only when their paths accidentally cross there is some hissing and spitting but as yet no bloodshed. Olaf has a rather sinister habit of lying across doorways like Cerberus guarding the exit from Hades and Peter won’t challenge him. So much for the theory that an unneutered tom would stand up to Olaf. Despite his pampered existence, perhaps in order to escape from Olaf, we think Peter may have a second home. Either that or he is too brainless to find his way back. We have been throwing him out of the house from time to time to discourage his unfortunate predilection for pooing indoors and a couple of times he has gone missing for twenty-four hours. Both times David gone out to look for him he has come bounding across the play area behind Crane Ley Road – mewing loudly and delighted to be back. If you are being visited by a very large ginger cat, please feel free to feed him he is eating us out of house and home. I’m pleased to see that some kind person is feeding the ugly duckling at Groby Pool. The dominant pair of adult swans and their one precious cygnet are doing their best to keep him out of the water and he looks so forlorn. When I passed yesterday there was plenty of grain and cabbage for him. Keep it up. LATE NEWS: I had a call today from Bev, the lovely hedgehog rescue lady. Although she lives on the other side of Leicester, a friend of hers had posted a copy of the Groby Spotlight through her door (tomorrow the world) about little Bernadette who we found and took to her to care for. She ( Bernie not Bev) is flourishing along with her friend Spike who turns out to be male. If all continues to go well we will have a breeding pair returned to us in the spring.

Lindy

Well Worth A Read

The Marriage Pact by Michelle Richmond Your marriage is for ever. Would you stake your life on that? Jake believes Alice is the perfect woman to spend the rest of his life with. So when they’re offered a mysterious wedding gift - the chance to join a club which ensures they’ll never divorce - he doesn’t hesitate to sign the contract. • Always answer when your spouse calls. • Exchange thoughtful gifts each month. • Plan a trip together once per quarter. • Have no secrets from your spouse. They are initially seduced by the elite society, with its glamorous parties and like-minded couples. Then one of them breaks the rules. Don’t even think about trying to escape . . . The Pact will stop at nothing to enforce the contract. And once you’re in, there’s no way out. As the society’s punishments grow more extreme, Jake and Alice fear for their lives. Members never divorce, but why are they so often widowed? Is their love for ever, as The Pact demands . . . or have they made a fatal mistake? The marriage of their dreams is about to become their worst nightmare.

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The only member of my family with a personal trainer is the dog.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Letter

Outdated nonsense I AM afraid that I must object to the unattributed piece in the mid-December Spotlight, in which the line ‘Women prefer the single life to men, because it is they who have to put the work into keeping relationships going’ appears. The first part is unclear (whether single women are happier than their male counterparts, or than non-single women), but the assertion that women maintain relationships and men (therefore) do not is wildly anachronistic and more than a little insulting. It may be that in some relationships that the stereotypes do apply, but this is a long way from how most relationships that I see, including my own, work. These relationships are partnerships, and both parties share all aspects of making things work. Sexism, it should go without saying, is wrong. It is not made right by reversing its direction. I will hope that the piece was just badly-worded (if it had said ‘tend to put the work in’ I would have shrugged and let it go), and wish all, both female and male, a Happy (and stereotype-free) New Year!

Simon Bartlett

(In case you missed it, here it is ...)

Single – and happy about it

WOMEN prefer the single life to men, because it is they who have to put the work into keeping relationships going. This is the finding of a recent survey by consumer analysts Mintel. They found that 61 per cent of single women are happy with their single status, compared to 49 per cent of single men. Also, 75 percent of all single women have not even looked for a relationship in the past year, compared to 65 per cent of single men. For those aged 45 to 65, the difference is at its most stark. 32 per cent of single women in this age group say they are very happy alone, while only 19 per cent of men in this age group are happy alone.

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If you leave alphabet soup on the stove unattended, it could spell disaster.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

January Small Ads Pick Up A Bargain! • Zanussi freestanding ELECTRIC COOKER - ceramic hob with double oven in good working order. Price: £50 • B @ H VIBRO CYCLE - old but ln good order. Not had much use. Price: £10. Buyer to collect (Groby). Tel: 0116 287 9549 • Hotpoint PAS642HBK 58cm GAS HOB. Nearly new, Modern design with enamel pan support. Only used for 10 days. Bought from Argos for £127. Will accept £55 ono. It is now in its original package. Tel: 0752 851 9154. • Baby Start HIGH CHAIR bought for grandchild, little used, in good condition. Price: £20 o.n.o. Tel: 0116 231 1602 or 07778 393975 • TWO aluminium tubular BAR STOOLS with backs and round black leatherette seats; height from floor to seat 72cm, height

to top of back 112cm. Good condition. Price: £60 for the pair. Tel: 0116 287 6657 (Groby). • AOC 32” TV full working order VGC with instructions and remote control Price: £40 • 6 Box DVD set Claire Baldwin’s Horseracing - unused, still in sealed box. Price: £6 • Fidget Squares x 2 - for dementia sufferers - individually made. Price: £5 each Tel: 01530 839969 (Whitwick) IF YOU HAVE any household items which you’d like to advertise FREE in the Spotlight, please SEND DETAILS by post or email sorry, we can’t take them over the phone. Maximum EIGHT items please. Our postal address is Spotlight Small Ads, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT or you can email details to: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk Please put ‘Small Ads’ in the subject line, and include your postal address (not for publication).

WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER 2018 (International and Interdenominational) “All God’s Creation is Very Good!” Written by the women of Suriname in South America

The interdenominational movement of the Women’s World Day of Prayer invites everyone to attend one of over 5,000 services being held on FRIDAY 2ND MARCH with the title ‘All God’s Creation is Very Good!’ Starting in Samoa as the sun rises, and ending as the sun sets off the coast of American Samoa, we will join an estimated 3 million people around the world that day in a service which has been translated into more than 95 languages and 1000 dialects reminding us of our responsibilities in caring for the world we live in. The women of Suriname ask us to pray for conservation and the protection of wildlife, through an awareness of pollution, misuse and abuse, as well as for the particular needs of their country. This is a day of prayer, not just for women, but for everyone who cares about our world and those who live in it. The Groby service, organised jointly by St Philip & St James Church and Groby United Reform Church will take place at St Philip & St James Church, Markfield Road, Groby, at 7pm on Friday 2nd March 2018. ALL ARE WELCOME. Refreshments will be served from 7pm, service at 7.30pm For further information contact Gill Tyler on ahandgtyler@virginmedia.com If you are unable to attend the evening service in Groby, there will also be a service at Ratby Methodist Church on Station Road in the afternoon of 2nd March, commencing at 2pm.

Despite the old saying, “Don’t take your troubles to bed”, many women still sleep with their husbands.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Brighten Up The Dark Days Of January! “PUSS IN BOOTS”... A TRADITIONAL FAMILY PANTOMIME Written and directed by Muriel Walker Monday 15th to Saturday 20th January 2018 at THORNTON COMMUNITY CENTRE

THE NEW YEAR will begin for the Markfield & Thornton Theatre Group with its annual pantomime! It’s such a pleasure to bring a happy production to our neighbourhood... continuing a tradition that began with our first pantomime, “Aladdin” which was staged at South Charnwood School in January in 1973 –forty-five years ago! This year, we revisit a well-loved story , which, it’s hard to believe, dates from 1550 in its original form! Puss in Boots”, is a story about a cat which, once given magical powers, uses its wits to gain power, wealth, and the hand of a princess in marriage for his penniless and low-born master – a miller’s son. No pantomime is complete without a group of fearsome villains and these we have acquired by dredging the ditches and nasty fetid places in the neighbourhood whilst searching for goblins! You certainly wouldn’t want to meet any of them on a dark night! Fortunately, and in contrast, our “goodies” are as good as good can be. The folks who live at the mill are gentle, simple souls, wanting only to earn an honest living. However, the late miller’s will has surprises for them all. Then, of course, there are the “royals” with their own idiosyncrasies. King Opalous would just like a quiet life... but will never have one whilst the Queen is around. Princess Contraria hates the constraints of her position, but her life will take a dramatic turn thanks to a riverside picnic. Threaded through the telling of the story is music and merriment a-plenty. We have made sure that there is something to suit all tastes. Back again this year will be a Junior Chorus from the Linda Williams Academy of Performing Arts. These are children who love to perform, and who appreciate the opportunity to do so whilst being an integral part of the pantomime. Of course, pantomime is for children.. it is often a child’s first introduction to live theatre.. but it is not just for them! Quite simply, it is for all of you who remain young at heart; for all of you who appreciate spending an entertaining and happy evening in good company. Hiss, boo, but, whatever you do... DON’T MISS OUR PANTOMIME! It’ s not too late to purchase tickets! Performances are at 7.30 p.m. nightly, and there is a Saturday Matinee at 3.00 p.m. TICKETS (£5) can be obtained on 01530 469714.

How to improve your memory

ON’T FORGET to eat your greens – or you could be forgetting a lot of other things as well. It seems that a portion of green leafy vegetables each day can go a long way towards safeguarding the memory of older people. In a recent study, it was found that people who eat greens regularly can have a memory capacity equivalent to the memory of a person 11 years younger.

A recent study at Rush University Medical Centre in Chicago found that people in their 80s who ate just half a cup a day of certain green leafy vegetables (lettuce, spinach, kale and collard greens; all rich in vitamin K) had significantly better memory than those older people who did not.

Afternoon: that part of the day we spend worrying about how we wasted the morning.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

County Councillor’s Report from Ozzy O’shea Weight Restriction Ratby Lane, Field Head I AM pleased to inform the residents of Ratby Lane, Field Head that the 7.5T weight restriction and legal order will be brought into operation on the 8th January 2018. The signs are programmed to be installed during the first week in January.

Anti Social Behaviour in Groby SINCE MY last article I have had further meeting with the Police and Community Safety Officer at the Council, and officers are working hard investigating all reported crimes and incidents of ASB in Groby. Extra officers were allocated to Groby on overtime on late shifts in the week leading up to Christmas. I have arranged a follow up meeting later this month with the Police, Council officers and local members. I can assure residents I am working on your behalf to put an end to this sort of behaviour in our community.

Apple ID Scam PLEASE do not respond to these email scams the spelling are poor and should also set alarm bells ringing. All they want is for you to click the Link and pass on your personal details and bank details. Apple ID Update Account Information Dear Customer, For your protection, your Apple lD ls automatlcally Locked. we detect

unauthorized login Attempts to your Apple ID from other IP location. Please verify your identity today or your account will be Locked due to concerns we have for the safety and lntegrity of the Apple Comunity. What To Do Next : To verify your Apple lD, we recommend that you Verify And Update your billing informations to proof the ID is yours,thanks you. VERIFY NOW Regards, ID Apple Support My Apple ID | Support | Privacy Policy Copyright © 2017 Apple Inc. All rights reserved

Police scam warning NORTH WEST Leicestershire Police would like people to be aware of a new scam emerging in our communities. We have received reports that people are receiving a telephone

call on their landline from a male stating he is a Police Officer investigating counterfeit bank notes being passed through their bank account. The caller will then ask the victim to attend their bank and withdraw several thousand pounds in cash and return home. The fake police officer then makes further contact by phone and asks for some serial numbers of the notes. He will state that the notes are counterfeit and arrange a second person to collect the cash from the victim. This is a scam. The police will NOT call asking you to withdraw cash. If you receive a call as described, terminate the call and make another call - on a different phone - to Leicestershire Police on 101 or 999 if you feel threatened. Finally I would like to wish you all a very Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year. I would also like to thank you for your continued support and remind you that should

Ozzy O’shea you need my help or advice, I am only a phone call or email away. I always pride myself on making myself available to residents.

Ozzy O’shea Always Working for you Cllr Ozzy O’shea Tel 0116 2394336 Mobile 07808585825 Email ozzyoshea@hotmail.com

Have your say on the County Council’s budget proposals RESIDENTS and businesses are urged to have their say on Leicestershire County Council’s latest budget proposals. People can find out more about the four-year plan and give feedback until 21 January. The proposals include saving £54m by 2022 and set out details for £36m of these – including reviewing the council’s ‘early help’ and prevention services, reducing adult social care costs,

and generating more income - and initial proposals for the remaining £18m. Rising demand means that the council is planning to earmark an extra £17m for children’s social care, and inject another £10m into adult social care. Byron Rhodes, deputy leader, Leicestershire County Council said: “By planning ahead, we’ve saved £178m since 2010 and reduced our budget shortfall. But growing service pressures and uncertainty about national funding mean that demand continues to outstrip income. We’re doing everything we can to lever more funding. This includes providing services to other organisations leading calls for fair funding, investing in property and doing more with partners – income generated is ploughed back into services. However, tough choices are set to continue, and we’re keen to hear people’s views on the proposals. Savings of £54m will have a significant impact on services so it’s important for people to take the time to read them through and tell us what they think.” The proposals include: • Savings of £54m, including - Recruiting more in-house

My wife says she enjoys my company. Good thing I own it.

foster carers - Refocussing ‘early help’ and prevention services - A new approach to road maintenance - Reducing support services further, including HR, ICT and finance - Reducing adult social care costs • Investment of £40m, mainly in children’s and adult social care, due to rising demand • Council Tax rises of 3.99 per cent, including two per cent for adult social care - and then by 1.99 per cent in 2020/21 and 2021/22. Each one per cent raises £2.6m • Spending £290m on roads, schools, broadband and more, supporting new homes and boosting the local economy - this is funded by one-off government grants and land and property sales The consultation runs from 13 December to 21 January. Visit the website at: www.leicestershire. gov.uk/about-the-council/ council-spending/latestbudgetproposals The budget will be finalised at the full county council meeting on 21st February 2018.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

According to children, love is…

HAT DO children know about love? When questioned, some four to eight year olds came up with the following: • • • • • • • • • •

When you’re born and see your mummy for the first time. That’s love. Love is what makes you smile when you’re tired. If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who hates you. Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day. I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old clothes and has to go out and buy new ones. You have to fall in love before you get married. Then when you’re married, you just sit around and read books together. I let my big sister pick on me because my Mum says she only picks on me because she loves me. Love goes on even when you stop breathing, and you pick up where you left off when you reach Heaven. Love cards like Valentine’s cards say stuff on them that we’d like to say ourselves, but we wouldn’t be caught dead saying it. When you love somebody, your eyelashes go up and down and little stars come out of you.

Advance Notice

It is planned that in order to deter anti social behaviour and improve security the Village Hall barrier will be closed fieldand Christadelphians locked after the close of business each evening until the following morning with effect from early February. to June Groby 2018Village Hall Management Committee

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FEBRUARY

The Bible holds the Key to Eternal Life Bible Talks

Scout Hall, Stamford St. Glenfield Each Sunday at 6pm (God Willing)

For the wages of sin is death; The Nation of Egypt and the God of the but the gift of Feb 11 Bible God is eternal life through Feb 18 True Baptism Essential for Salvation Jesus Christ our Lord. Feb 25 Why Doesn't God Do Something? Romans 6:23 www.lifes-big-questions.org www.thisisyourbible.com/glenfield Feb 4

The Purpose of Life - Bible Teaching

Glenfield Christadelphians APRIL

The Bible holds the Key to Eternal Life Bible Talks Apr 1

Scout Hall, Stamford St. Glenfield Each Sunday at 6pm (God Willing) Does it Matter What We Believe?

Apr 8

For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:23 www.thisisyourbible.com/glenfield

Jesus Christ - The Son of God How Noah's Flood Explains the Fossil Apr 15 Record Apr 22 Israel, God’s Witnesses The Resurrection of Jesus Christ – Fact or Apr 29 Fiction? www.lifes-big-questions.org

Glenfield Christadelphians

The nice thing about being single is I’m always there when I need me. JUNE

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

More wintry images of Groby

Do you take too many selfies?

RE YOU taking – and posting – selfies on social media every day? Then beware – you may be in danger of developing a genuine mental health condition. Recent research at Nottingham Trent University and Thiagarajar School of Management in India has concluded that ‘selfitis’ does exist, and is based on attention-seeking, lack of self-confidence, and therefore a constant need to boost your social standing. It seems there are three levels of being ‘selfie indulgent’- borderline (taking photos of yourself at least three times a day, but not posting them on social media); acute (taking photos of yourself at least three times a day and posting them all on social media) and chronic (uncontrollable urge to take photos of yourself and posting them more than six times a day). So – smile and click – but beware!

Special needs

FTER booking my 85-year-old grandmother on a flight from London to Amsterdam, I called the airline to go over her special needs. The representative listened patiently as I requested a wheelchair and an attendant for my mother because of her growing confusion, her arthritis and impaired vision to the point of near blindness. My apprehension lightened a bit when the woman again and again assured me that she understood and that everything would be taken care of. I thanked her profusely. ‘Oh, you’re welcome,’ she replied. I was about to hang up when she cheerfully added, ‘And will your grandmother want a rental car?’

Here are three more of Mike Pratt’s super photos of Groby and Groby Pool in the snow.

Bread, glorious bread

OOD QUALITY sliced bread is back in fashion this year.

After years of decline, when carbs were ‘out’, households all over the country seem to be waking up to the fact that they can easily create delicious lunches with ‘craft’ breads at home, and have no need to pay anything up to £15 for an ‘avocado brunch’ at trendy cafés. And so, inviting your friends over for a sandwich ‘brunch’ at the weekend is becoming a very sociable occasion, rather than going out. Pasta is also expected to make a major ‘return’ this year.

I guess we’ll never find out who let the dogs out.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Friends of Charnwood Forest GONE WITH THE WIND; the lost Windmills of Leicestershire

Diamond Wedding Anniversary Congratulations to

Dick & Margaret Frith of Holmes Close in Groby Who celebrated 60 years wed on Saturday 30th December 2017

From all neighbours

A TALK BY Mark Temple MONDAY 19th February 2018 WOODHOUSE EAVES VILLAGE HALL at 7.30pm At one time every family’s diet included bread which relied on a constant supply of fresh flour. So virtually every village had a mill of some sort, a watermill if there was a suitable stream, or if not, a windmill was placed on an elevated position where its sails could catch the wind. At their peak in 1835 there were believed to be 152 mills in Leicestershire, and many were locally such as Woodhouse Eaves, Markfield, Mountsorrel, Shepshed etc. Mark has tried to gather together all the photographic images that have survived and has also made a collection of milling stories. He knows of the existence of many mills but as far as he knows their images have been lost.

FUTURE EVENTS

Long wait SERVICE in the restaurant was abysmally slow. My husband was getting very tense, so I tried to distract him with small talk. ‘You know,’ I said, ‘our friend Christine should be having her baby anytime now.’ ‘Really?’ my husband snapped. ‘She wasn’t even pregnant when we walked in here.’

Monday 19th March 2018 brief AGM followed by a 1970 film “Leicestershire a Heritage at Risk”, at Woodhouse Eaves Village Hall at 7.30pm. You will not be surprised that most of the issues raised are still the same today. It is a delightful film as it brings back memories of familiar sights 48 years ago of rural Leicestershire and Charnwood Forest. The meeting will conclude with a brief discussion of the issues raised led by the CPRE. For further information contact Dick Howard or look at our website www. focf.org.uk Visitors welcome £3 on the door.

Dick Howard 01530 245373

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

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TrySKINT the 365-Day Money Saving Challenge! DAD'S 1P SAVING CHALLENGE (2018 EDITION)

Day Save Total Day Save Total Day Save Total Day Save Total Day Save Total Day Save Total Day Save Total Day Save Total Day Save Total Day Save Total Day Save Total Day Save Total Day Save Total Day Save Total Day Save Total

Day 1 £0.01 £0.01 Day 26 £0.26 £3.51 Day 51 £0.51 £13.26 Day 76 £0.76 £29.26 Day 101 £1.01 £51.51 Day 126 £1.26 £80.01 Day 151 £1.51 £114.76 Day 176 £1.76 £155.76 Day 201 £2.01 £203.01 Day 226 £2.26 £256.51 Day 251 £2.51 £316.26 Day 276 £2.76 £382.26 Day 301 £3.01 £454.51 Day 326 £3.26 £533.01 Day 346 £3.46 £600.31

Day 2 £0.02 £0.03 Day 27 £0.27 £3.78 Day 52 £0.52 £13.78 Day 77 £0.77 £30.03 Day 102 £1.02 £52.53 Day 127 £1.27 £81.28 Day 152 £1.52 £116.28 Day 177 £1.77 £157.53 Day 202 £2.02 £205.03 Day 227 £2.27 £258.78 Day 252 £2.52 £318.78 Day 277 £2.77 £385.03 Day 302 £3.02 £457.53 Day 327 £3.27 £536.28 Day 347 £3.47 £603.78

Day 3 £0.03 £0.06 Day 28 £0.28 £4.06 Day 53 £0.53 £14.31 Day 78 £0.78 £30.81 Day 103 £1.03 £53.56 Day 128 £1.28 £82.56 Day 153 £1.53 £117.81 Day 178 £1.78 £159.31 Day 203 £2.03 £207.06 Day 228 £2.28 £261.06 Day 253 £2.53 £321.31 Day 278 £2.78 £387.81 Day 303 £3.03 £460.56 Day 328 £3.28 £539.56 Day 348 £3.48 £607.26

Day 4 £0.04 £0.10 Day 29 £0.29 £4.35 Day 54 £0.54 £14.85 Day 79 £0.79 £31.60 Day 104 £1.04 £54.60 Day 129 £1.29 £83.85 Day 154 £1.54 £119.35 Day 179 £1.79 £161.10 Day 204 £2.04 £209.10 Day 229 £2.29 £263.35 Day 254 £2.54 £323.85 Day 279 £2.79 £390.60 Day 304 £3.04 £463.60 Day 329 £3.29 £542.85 Day 349 £3.49 £610.75

Day 5 £0.05 £0.15 Day 30 £0.30 £4.65 Day 55 £0.55 £15.40 Day 80 £0.80 £32.40 Day 105 £1.05 £55.65 Day 130 £1.30 £85.15 Day 155 £1.55 £120.90 Day 180 £1.80 £162.90 Day 205 £2.05 £211.15 Day 230 £2.30 £265.65 Day 255 £2.55 £326.40 Day 280 £2.80 £393.40 Day 305 £3.05 £466.65 Day 330 £3.30 £546.15 Day 350 £3.50 £614.25

Day 6 £0.06 £0.21 Day 31 £0.31 £4.96 Day 56 £0.56 £15.96 Day 81 £0.81 £33.21 Day 106 £1.06 £56.71 Day 131 £1.31 £86.46 Day 156 £1.56 £122.46 Day 181 £1.81 £164.71 Day 206 £2.06 £213.21 Day 231 £2.31 £267.96 Day 256 £2.56 £328.96 Day 281 £2.81 £396.21 Day 306 £3.06 £469.71 Day 331 £3.31 £549.46 Day 351 £3.51 £617.76

Day 7 £0.07 £0.28 Day 32 £0.32 £5.28 Day 57 £0.57 £16.53 Day 82 £0.82 £34.03 Day 107 £1.07 £57.78 Day 132 £1.32 £87.78 Day 157 £1.57 £124.03 Day 182 £1.82 £166.53 Day 207 £2.07 £215.28 Day 232 £2.32 £270.28 Day 257 £2.57 £331.53 Day 282 £2.82 £399.03 Day 307 £3.07 £472.78 Day 332 £3.32 £552.78 Day 352 £3.52 £621.28

Day 8 £0.08 £0.36 Day 33 £0.33 £5.61 Day 58 £0.58 £17.11 Day 83 £0.83 £34.86 Day 108 £1.08 £58.86 Day 133 £1.33 £89.11 Day 158 £1.58 £125.61 Day 183 £1.83 £168.36 Day 208 £2.08 £217.36 Day 233 £2.33 £272.61 Day 258 £2.58 £334.11 Day 283 £2.83 £401.86 Day 308 £3.08 £475.86 Day 333 £3.33 £556.11 Day 353 £3.53 £624.81

Day 9 £0.09 £0.45 Day 34 £0.34 £5.95 Day 59 £0.59 £17.70 Day 84 £0.84 £35.70 Day 109 £1.09 £59.95 Day 134 £1.34 £90.45 Day 159 £1.59 £127.20 Day 184 £1.84 £170.20 Day 209 £2.09 £219.45 Day 234 £2.34 £274.95 Day 259 £2.59 £336.70 Day 284 £2.84 £404.70 Day 309 £3.09 £478.95 Day 334 £3.34 £559.45 Day 354 £3.54 £628.35

Day 10 £0.10 £0.55 Day 35 £0.35 £6.30 Day 60 £0.60 £18.30 Day 85 £0.85 £36.55 Day 110 £1.10 £61.05 Day 135 £1.35 £91.80 Day 160 £1.60 £128.80 Day 185 £1.85 £172.05 Day 210 £2.10 £221.55 Day 235 £2.35 £277.30 Day 260 £2.60 £339.30 Day 285 £2.85 £407.55 Day 310 £3.10 £482.05 Day 335 £3.35 £562.80 Day 355 £3.55 £631.90

Day 11 £0.11 £0.66 Day 36 £0.36 £6.66 Day 61 £0.61 £18.91 Day 86 £0.86 £37.41 Day 111 £1.11 £62.16 Day 136 £1.36 £93.16 Day 161 £1.61 £130.41 Day 186 £1.86 £173.91 Day 211 £2.11 £223.66 Day 236 £2.36 £279.66 Day 261 £2.61 £341.91 Day 286 £2.86 £410.41 Day 311 £3.11 £485.16 Day 336 £3.36 £566.16 Day 356 £3.56 £635.46

Day 12 £0.12 £0.78 Day 37 £0.37 £7.03 Day 62 £0.62 £19.53 Day 87 £0.87 £38.28 Day 112 £1.12 £63.28 Day 137 £1.37 £94.53 Day 162 £1.62 £132.03 Day 187 £1.87 £175.78 Day 212 £2.12 £225.78 Day 237 £2.37 £282.03 Day 262 £2.62 £344.53 Day 287 £2.87 £413.28 Day 312 £3.12 £488.28 Day 337 £3.37 £569.53 Day 357 £3.57 £639.03

Day 13 £0.13 £0.91 Day 38 £0.38 £7.41 Day 63 £0.63 £20.16 Day 88 £0.88 £39.16 Day 113 £1.13 £64.41 Day 138 £1.38 £95.91 Day 163 £1.63 £133.66 Day 188 £1.88 £177.66 Day 213 £2.13 £227.91 Day 238 £2.38 £284.41 Day 263 £2.63 £347.16 Day 288 £2.88 £416.16 Day 313 £3.13 £491.41 Day 338 £3.38 £572.91 Day 358 £3.58 £642.61

Day 14 £0.14 £1.05 Day 39 £0.39 £7.80 Day 64 £0.64 £20.80 Day 89 £0.89 £40.05 Day 114 £1.14 £65.55 Day 139 £1.39 £97.30 Day 164 £1.64 £135.30 Day 189 £1.89 £179.55 Day 214 £2.14 £230.05 Day 239 £2.39 £286.80 Day 264 £2.64 £349.80 Day 289 £2.89 £419.05 Day 314 £3.14 £494.55 Day 339 £3.39 £576.30 Day 359 £3.59 £646.20

Day 15 £0.15 £1.20 Day 40 £0.40 £8.20 Day 65 £0.65 £21.45 Day 90 £0.90 £40.95 Day 115 £1.15 £66.70 Day 140 £1.40 £98.70 Day 165 £1.65 £136.95 Day 190 £1.90 £181.45 Day 215 £2.15 £232.20 Day 240 £2.40 £289.20 Day 265 £2.65 £352.45 Day 290 £2.90 £421.95 Day 315 £3.15 £497.70 Day 340 £3.40 £579.70 Day 360 £3.60 £649.80

Day 16 £0.16 £1.36 Day 41 £0.41 £8.61 Day 66 £0.66 £22.11 Day 91 £0.91 £41.86 Day 116 £1.16 £67.86 Day 141 £1.41 £100.11 Day 166 £1.66 £138.61 Day 191 £1.91 £183.36 Day 216 £2.16 £234.36 Day 241 £2.41 £291.61 Day 266 £2.66 £355.11 Day 291 £2.91 £424.86 Day 316 £3.16 £500.86 Day 341 £3.41 £583.11 Day 361 £3.61 £653.41

Day 17 £0.17 £1.53 Day 42 £0.42 £9.03 Day 67 £0.67 £22.78 Day 92 £0.92 £42.78 Day 117 £1.17 £69.03 Day 142 £1.42 £101.53 Day 167 £1.67 £140.28 Day 192 £1.92 £185.28 Day 217 £2.17 £236.53 Day 242 £2.42 £294.03 Day 267 £2.67 £357.78 Day 292 £2.92 £427.78 Day 317 £3.17 £504.03 Day 342 £3.42 £586.53 Day 362 £3.62 £657.03

Day 18 £0.18 £1.71 Day 43 £0.43 £9.46 Day 68 £0.68 £23.46 Day 93 £0.93 £43.71 Day 118 £1.18 £70.21 Day 143 £1.43 £102.96 Day 168 £1.68 £141.96 Day 193 £1.93 £187.21 Day 218 £2.18 £238.71 Day 243 £2.43 £296.46 Day 268 £2.68 £360.46 Day 293 £2.93 £430.71 Day 318 £3.18 £507.21 Day 343 £3.43 £589.96 Day 363 £3.63 £660.66

Day 19 £0.19 £1.90 Day 44 £0.44 £9.90 Day 69 £0.69 £24.15 Day 94 £0.94 £44.65 Day 119 £1.19 £71.40 Day 144 £1.44 £104.40 Day 169 £1.69 £143.65 Day 194 £1.94 £189.15 Day 219 £2.19 £240.90 Day 244 £2.44 £298.90 Day 269 £2.69 £363.15 Day 294 £2.94 £433.65 Day 319 £3.19 £510.40 Day 344 £3.44 £593.40 Day 364 £3.64 £664.30

Day 20 £0.20 £2.10 Day 45 £0.45 £10.35 Day 70 £0.70 £24.85 Day 95 £0.95 £45.60 Day 120 £1.20 £72.60 Day 145 £1.45 £105.85 Day 170 £1.70 £145.35 Day 195 £1.95 £191.10 Day 220 £2.20 £243.10 Day 245 £2.45 £301.35 Day 270 £2.70 £365.85 Day 295 £2.95 £436.60 Day 320 £3.20 £513.60 Day 345 £3.45 £596.85 Day 365 £3.65 £667.95

Day 21 £0.21 £2.31 Day 46 £0.46 £10.81 Day 71 £0.71 £25.56 Day 96 £0.96 £46.56 Day 121 £1.21 £73.81 Day 146 £1.46 £107.31 Day 171 £1.71 £147.06 Day 196 £1.96 £193.06 Day 221 £2.21 £245.31 Day 246 £2.46 £303.81 Day 271 £2.71 £368.56 Day 296 £2.96 £439.56 Day 321 £3.21 £516.81

Day 22 £0.22 £2.53 Day 47 £0.47 £11.28 Day 72 £0.72 £26.28 Day 97 £0.97 £47.53 Day 122 £1.22 £75.03 Day 147 £1.47 £108.78 Day 172 £1.72 £148.78 Day 197 £1.97 £195.03 Day 222 £2.22 £247.53 Day 247 £2.47 £306.28 Day 272 £2.72 £371.28 Day 297 £2.97 £442.53 Day 322 £3.22 £520.03

Day 23 £0.23 £2.76 Day 48 £0.48 £11.76 Day 73 £0.73 £27.01 Day 98 £0.98 £48.51 Day 123 £1.23 £76.26 Day 148 £1.48 £110.26 Day 173 £1.73 £150.51 Day 198 £1.98 £197.01 Day 223 £2.23 £249.76 Day 248 £2.48 £308.76 Day 273 £2.73 £374.01 Day 298 £2.98 £445.51 Day 323 £3.23 £523.26

Day 24 £0.24 £3.00 Day 49 £0.49 £12.25 Day 74 £0.74 £27.75 Day 99 £0.99 £49.50 Day 124 £1.24 £77.50 Day 149 £1.49 £111.75 Day 174 £1.74 £152.25 Day 199 £1.99 £199.00 Day 224 £2.24 £252.00 Day 249 £2.49 £311.25 Day 274 £2.74 £376.75 Day 299 £2.99 £448.50 Day 324 £3.24 £526.50

Day 25 £0.25 £3.25 Day 50 £0.50 £12.75 Day 75 £0.75 £28.50 Day 100 £1.00 £50.50 Day 125 £1.25 £78.75 Day 150 £1.50 £113.25 Day 175 £1.75 £154.00 Day 200 £2.00 £201.00 Day 225 £2.25 £254.25 Day 250 £2.50 £313.75 Day 275 £2.75 £379.50 Day 300 £3.00 £451.50 Day 325 £3.25 £529.75

TOTAL SAVED £667.95

SOPHIE COOK is the producer of Ben Jackson’s mid-morning show on BBC Radio Leicester. A couple of weeks ago, Sophie drew listeners’ attention to a simple 365-day savings scheme which is easy to do, very manageable and which produces Quick tips almost £700 over the year. 1. If you're flush tick off a few days at a time.

2. Starting in January? Try the challenge backwards as December is expensive The 365-Day Money Saving Challenge involves saving initially a3. Don't penny and increasing the daily saved amount by a penny each and every day throughout SAVE MORE AT SKINTDAD.CO.UK fret if you need to break into your savings. Just start again the year. These pennies add up surprisingly quickly. In a year, you can save nearly £700 by putting just 1p away in day one, 2p in day two … you get the idea. For a normal (365 day) year you can save £667.95 and the largest daily amount you put into your moneybox is £3.65 (on 31st December). It’s not too late to start - the chart above shows the daily amount you need to save, together with the ongoing total in your moneybox.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Looking for something?

Barking like a dog is the secret to avoid losing items BARKING like a dog when you put something down, such as your car keys or glasses, will dramatically reduce the likelihood of them being lost, according to insights published today.

A list of actions to prevent losing things has been released in partnership with leading human behavior expert, Jez Rose, based on the concept of mind palaces and making mental ‘markers’. This involves creating mental tags in the brain throughout the day to boost memory power. Rose, explains: “The good news is that there is no such thing as a person with a bad memory – this is a myth. The truth is, we all know where our lost items are, we just don’t know how to access the information in our brains, and this is a skill that can be taught. Simple memory training techniques can work wonders for improving your memory and help you to find lost items quicker, or even better, stop you losing things in the first place. “By consciously carrying out a significant action when you put something down, you are creating a mental tag on that moment. Barking like a dog when you put down your car keys is an extreme example, but the more unusual the action, the more likely you are to remember that moment.” What happens to the brain when we lose something? Rose explains: “When we realise we’ve lost a treasured item our ability to think straight is immediately impaired. Our emotional attachment to that item means we’re unable to deal with the situation rationally, we get swept up by the emotion of losing it. We are often inclined to panic and adrenaline and cortisol, the stress hormone, are produced. These hormones, along with the urge for the brain to search itself for answers, can create a confusing sensory and information overload, making it impossible to recall where we put our item. The best thing to do, therefore, is to try and relax. Have a cup of tea, sit on the sofa, concentrate on your breathing, all these things help stop these hormones taking over and stopping us thinking straight in a time of panic.” Who is better at finding lost items? “Women are generally better at finding lost items as they are natural multitaskers. Looking for something requires a degree of cerebral multitasking as we hunt our brain

for any clues about where the item may be, something that women tend to be better at,” Rose explains. “Children are also well suited to finding lost possessions as their ability to recall is often significantly better than their adult counterparts. Our optimum cerebral development, including the capability to remember information, lasts from around 5-9 years old and starts to drop significantly the older we get.”

HOW TO AVOID LOSING THINGS • Bark like a dog: Barking like a dog every time you put your item down will make you more consciously aware of the moment in which the item left your hands and help prevent you forgetting where you were when this happened. • Pinch your arm: A simple physical action like pinching your arm when you put your keys down will help act as a mental marker, making you more cognitively aware of the action and therefore more likely to remember where you were when you misplaced your keys. • Stick a label on it: Put a name label in your item and handwrite a number on it. When leaving the house, run through the numbers of the items you should have on you and you are less likely to lose them. Labelling your items will also help ensure they are returned if they do go missing. • Compliment your possessions: Give the item a funny sounding name or pay it a compliment every time you put it down. For example, “I’ll let you sunbathe here by the window, Percy the Pen”. The bizarre behavior will help you consciously remember where you left it behind. • Become a creature of habit: Put things in obvious places, not unusual places thinking that it’ll help you remember where they are. Placing items in the same place will form a habit and make it easier to find, using muscle memory. The human brain quickly establishes a pattern when we place things in the same place without having to think about it, which is why we always reach to the same cupboard for a mug when making a cup of tea, for example. • Colour code: Our attention and behaviour can be affected by colour. Choose a colour you don’t like and attach something of that colour to the item before you put it away. You are much more likely to remember a colour you don’t often, than one that you like and is probably all around you.

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Groby Gardening Society News 40 Years and still going strong! In 1977 a small group of enthusiastic gardeners decided to form a society in Groby. Through their hard work, dedication and tenacity we are now able to enjoy this Groby Gardening Society. We have been celebrating this “Ruby” landmark during this year and we had our penultimate event on Tuesday 5th December. At around 12.30, fifty members boarded the coach which took us to The Old Bull’s Head in Woodhouse Eaves. Here, we were shown to our tables and greeted with a glass of prosecco. Seating was arranged in a special area for us, but that still left us in touch with the rest of the diners and the Christmassy atmosphere that they engendered. The three-course meal that followed was excellent and it would be too picky to highlight any course option. Crackers were duly discharged, and their contents proudly worn by most! Eric gave a short speech in which he produced some interesting statistics about members and their participation in the numerous village shows. The afternoon ended by all being presented with a slice of our celebratory cake, which previously had been exhibited for all to admire. Such were the meals that all these slices were taken home for a later treat! After a thoroughly pleasant and sociable occasion our coach returned us to Groby by about 4.30. We all owe Beverley and Helen an enormous debt of gratitude for organising the event. Their relaxed demeanour hid a tremendous amount of work, a little frustration and a large commitment of time. Our last meeting of the year was the traditional christmas meal with Molly’s bottle top bingo serving as the entertainment. This year we suffered quite bad weather in the days preceding and on the day itself. This reduced the number of members present, although these hardy perennials brought the usual variety of delicious foods. As this was the last meeting of our ruby jubilee year, it was thought fitting to reflect upon those enlightened gardeners who

It’s good to volunteer

HAT IS your work-life balance? Ideally, it should be a four-way effort of family, work, leisure and - very important - volunteering. That is the belief of Sir Nick Parker, who served as Commander of the Land Forces from 2010 to 2012. He argues that young people, of between 10 and 20 years old especially, will themselves be helped by regular volunteering, as it helps them learn new skills, increases their resilience and self-confidence, and can improve their social mobility and life chances. Now Sir Nick Parker has been calling on the Government to encourage people of all ages to get used to volunteering, as not only could it help revitalise civil society, it also can help young people to grow and mature, and get into the habit of playing an active, useful role in their communities.

in 1977 had the tenacity and vision to found our society. We also have to thank a veritable army of volunteers who have kept the society afloat by giving their time and efforts in the numerous roles of responsibility since 1977. One member stands out in this regard through three decades of unrivalled service and dedication to the society. This is our treasurer, Eric. He has given so much of his time and energy for the benefit of us all, not only in the month to month business of our society, but in his monumental work over the years in organising the Village Show. (Recently, Jane has picked up this baton for which we are all grateful.) This August showpiece is a logistical nightmare with innumerable pieces of the jigsaw having to come together on the day to make the event such a successful and loved event. In view of all his contributions, Eric was presented with a certificate making him a life member of the society.

Three-day trip 2018 AT THE November meeting a vote by members decided upon Llandudno as next year’s base for our three day trip. The hotel will be the premier hotel in this resort and is called The Imperial. (check its web site). A good take-up for this trip is needed to make it viable due to the higher cost of the hotel. There will be more detail and a signing board at the A.G.M. in January.

Coming up in February February 8th - Gardens of the National Trust - Allan Tyler

IF YOU like the sound of what we get up to, why not come along to a meeting and try us out. You will be most welcome. Our monthly meetings are held at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of the month in the United Reformed Church rooms on Chapel Hill. Details about membership and the events programme can be obtained from Eric Atherton. (Tel. No. 0116 287 6637) or E mail e.atherton637@btinternet.com

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

News from Lady Jane Grey School Message from the Headteacher I WOULD like to thank all of the parents and carers for their continued support throughout this term. To say it has been a busy term is an understatement! Visits from Mayor O’Shea, success for the football teams, awarded for our music provision, the visiting Theatre company and the H.S.A Christmas fair have led us at great speed to the end of a fantastic term. One of the main highlights was the Year 4/5 choir performing at De Montfort Hall at the Lord Mayor of Leicester’s Christmas Carol Concert. It was a truly great experience to watch the show knowing that within the massed choir 22 of our children were giving it their all. The whole school have taken part in a Christmas production and I would like to thank you all for the support you have shown to these shows. A Happy New Year to everyone.

Mr FitzGerald LJG School Choir LJG’s school choir have been very busy this half term. The choir (22 children from Years 4 & 5) have been practising extremely hard during many rehearsals at lunchtimes. We had been lucky enough to be invited to GE Druck’s Christmas Grotto to perform a variety of Christmas songs. Although it was a very chilly evening, we impressed the crowd with our performance of songs such as ‘Jingle Bell Rock’ and ‘Walking in the Air’. Our main event this term was to be selected to be part of the children’s choir at the Lord Mayor’s Christmas show at De Montfort Hall on Thursday 7th December. We performed a medley from the Polar Express, Carol Of The Bells, Mr Grinch and performed with the Leicester Schools Symphony Orchestra singing Mistletoe & Wine. We were part of a choir of more than 350 children so rehearsals were a big event. Mrs Lyons was extremely proud of all the Choir: “They have worked so hard and sang so beautifully, I can’t wait to start rehearsals again in the new year and, hopefully, new events too!”

Class Topic Updates • Foundation class kicked off the term by coming to school dressed as Superheroes - we had a fantastic time designing and making masks and capes and then writing superpower words. We also had lots of discussions about the work that Superheroes do and how we can be good friends to one another within school. The children have also worked incredibly hard rehearsing and performing our version of the Nativity story, ‘The Wriggly Nativity’. (Miss Clay) • Year 1—Moon Zoom. This term the children have been learning all about the Solar System. On our engage day we were lucky enough to spend time inside a mobile planetarium and were able to watch a spectacular show learning all about the planets and the moons. The children were amazed to watch an astronaut clean his teeth in space and were fascinated by the effect of zero gravity. Our Geography this term saw us looking at the Earth from outer space and the children were captivated by the images. We were able to see clearly the land and seas as well as volcanoes erupting. (Miss Burrows) • Year 2—Autumn 2 is always such a busy term because we try to achieve so much. We have all enjoyed completing

our topic ‘Tunnels, Turrets and Towers’ and produced some excellent art work and written work to show case our learning. Although the real highlight of the term is always the Christmas play. This year we returned to a favourite from the past; ‘Hey Ewe!’ Well done to all of you – you made Miss Burrows and I very proud! (Mrs O) • Year 3 have had a very busy half term. As well as learning all the songs and parts for KS2’s Christmas performance, they have also been learning about the Ancient Greeks. The term began with an exciting engage day, where Year 3 were able to sample an ancient Mediterranean feast. As the term progressed, the children learned all about the Ancient Greeks, from what clothes they wore to which Gods they worshipped. They particularly enjoyed re-enacting the story of Theseus and the Minotaur. And, to cap it all off, Year 3 put in wonderful effort at the KS2 performances— I was very proud of them. (Mr Owen) • For Year 4’s music-inspired topic, Playlist, the children have been learning how to read standard musical notation using the treble clef; enabling them to play a range of melodies on the school’s glockenspiels: from pop classics like Abba’s ‘Mamma Mia’ to festive greats. In addition, they learned about the main types of musical instrument (brass, wind, strings and percussion), before having the opportunity to construct their own versions of the latter 3 out of recycled materials, elastic bands and plenty of tape. Some of the Year 4 pupils showcased their musical prowess by playing the glockenspiels during our Key Stage 2 Christmas concert. (Mr Fletcher) • This half term, Year 5 have been following the topic “Stargazers”. During this topic, we have been learning about the planets, how they orbit the sun and what effect this has on the seasons. We have looked at the phases of the moon and why the moon looks different during the lunar month. We have followed this theme into English and using it as a writing stimulus. We have written setting descriptions of alien planets and created our own newspaper report when a satellite was captured on CCTV crashing onto the school’s KS2 playground. In science we have been looking at impact craters and investigating the causes of different sized craters – taking into account air resistance, gravity and asteroid sizes. (Mr Caldwell) • Year 6 have packed a lot of learning and trips into their topic this term. In November we travelled to Coventry to visit the historic centre. We managed to fit in the evacuee experience at the Transport Museum and Coventy at War at the Herbert Museum. On top of that we walked through the historic centre stopping at the amazing memorial to the Blitz that is Coventry Cathedral. Year six also travelled to the Warning Zone on Leicester’s Frog Island. There they learnt about risk and what they can do to control the risks around them. Seeing how cold water could be at the sea; realising how headphones can block traffic sounds; and the how to be safe on the internet were just some of the many situations that the class learnt about through experience. (Mr Heaney)

Did you know that being fat lowers your chance of getting kidnapped.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Redgate Report

Beautiful kittens and young cats ready for adoption soon!

WHAT A YEAR it’s been for kittens at Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary, Markfield. Even busier than usual. ) Several pregnant cats (and cats in boxes with tiny kittens) have been brought in to us over the past months. There are still some newer litters awaiting a place in the queue for a pen. Despite the fact that winter is here, there are still babies out there needing our – and the public’s – help. In the long term we do hope that cat owners will decide to take their pets to the Vet’s to be neutered, but in the short to medium term of course we have kittens (and one or two Mums and some stunning older boys and girls) to re-home; and our feline ‘Redgaters’ will be ready for public viewing very soon. Do please keep in touch so you can find out the exact dates, but most kittens will be ready between late January and mid-late February. We also have a gorgeous ginger Tom and a long-haired beauty called Roxy.

Choosing your kitten/cat If you think you might be interested in adopting a cute kitty or two, they can be viewed at the sanctuary from approximately 23rd January: The sanctuary is open to the public every day from 11am – 3.30pm (or telephone 01530 230 455, or email redgate@mail. org or via the query form on the website). All our pets up for re-homing are neutered, vaccinated and vet checked, so on the day they are adopted, they are ready to take their new place within your family. Please note that because of all the care and veterinary treatment the Sanctuary has provided, the charge for kittens is £100. If you see an adult cat you like, you can reserve him or her up to 7 days in advance by filling in a reservation form with our staff and paying a deposit. (NB. All deposits are non-refundable). The kittens will be kept in their ‘nursery’ rooms until after they are neutered and have their final inoculations, so please be patient with us if a slight delay occurs. In 2017 we rescued, rehabilitated and re-homed 115 cats – please help us keep up the good work for another 31 years. Hope to see you soon at Redgate Farm Animal Sanctuary!

Jo Leadbetter Trustee Tel: 01530 230 455

Do one thing that scares you every day. Maybe do four things. Live in constant fear.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk returns this spring THIS SPRING will see the return of the UK’s muddiest fundraising event for little ones – Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children. Last year saw 160,000 children across the UK take part, raising an incredible £243,000 for Save the Children’s vital work, and this year the charity hopes even more people will sign up, take part and donate. Between 23 and 29 April 2018, nurseries, early years groups, families and children up and down the country are being encouraged to take part in a Muddy Puddle Walk to raise money for the international children’s charity. Organising a Muddy Puddle Walk is a great way for your little ones to explore the world around them and jump in muddy puddles, like Entertainment One’s Peppa Pig, for a worthy cause. Whether you splash in puddles along a trail at the park or get creative and make your own puddles indoors from paper and foil – your Muddy Puddle Walk will be a fun day to spend together that littles ones won’t forget. Raise funds in the way that suits you – help walkers get sponsored for their walk, ask for a donation to take part or even bake Muddy Puddle cupcakes to sell on the day! The money you raise will help Save the Children’s work to transform the lives of vulnerable children in the UK and around the world. Sophie Pirouet, Fundraising Campaigns Manager at Save the Children, says: “We hope everyone will get outside this Spring, come rain or shine, and help raise much needed funds for Save the Children. It’s so easy to take part and it’s the perfect excuse to explore the outdoors with your little ones. By jumping in muddy puddles like Peppa Pig and raising money for Save the Children you can help give children a brighter future.” By taking part in a Muddy Puddle Walk and raising money for Save the Children, you can help vulnerable children around the world have a safe place to play and learn. Sign up now at MuddyPuddleWalk.org for your free Muddy Puddle Walk Fundraising Pack full of fun Peppa Pig inspired activities to help you get started – with tips for great walks indoors and out, fundraising ideas, fun activities to get your walkers ready for the big day and at the end of the walk, there’s a free Peppa Pig sticker reward for every child. The fundraising pack will also explain what life is like for children in different countries, helping them see how they are making a difference through supporting Save the Children.

Sorry I just saw your text from last night, are you guys still at the restaurant?

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

OUR DECEMBER meeting had to be brought forward. As you all know it’s very difficult trying to fit in everything before the big event. That said we had a great turnout for our Christmas ‘do’ I am very pleased to say. All mucked in setting up the tables ready for the ‘feast’, the Christmas tree shot up, done as usual by our Festive Tree Gang (lovely it looked too) along with the smell of something good in the kitchen. Diane always works exceedingly hard doing our supper which as usual was extremely tasty and delicious. During the supper we had a quiz, my table didn’t exactly show themselves up but then again we didn’t shine. Entertainment was a couple of comic verses by super star Judy, followed by members of Groby Sings rendering Edelweiss which sounded rather good but topped by the audience joining in the second time around. Each member went home with a rather nice present and all said they had had a thoroughly good evening. This year has, as the song says, been a very good year. At Kilworth House, always a favourite with our ladies, we saw Top Hat, Kiss Me Kate, Beyond the Barricade and the Last Night of the Proms, which were all excellent. There have been plenty of trips to other theatres throughout the year, Miss Saigon, the ballet Red Shoes, Dirty Dancing and South Pacific to mention just a few. We have also a gang of ladies who make regular visits to the cinema. It is not just cinema visiting, we manage to pull in a coffee and bun to begin with, then on to the cinema followed by lunch at some hostelry, perhaps even managing in a few shops! Our outings took us to various places, one to Oakham where we had had lunch with Wing WI, then onto Rutland Water for a boat trip to finish the day off. We discovered the Glenfield Railway Tunnel - walking into it and learning all about the beginnings of the railway, very interesting. A trip to the National Memorial Arboretum which since our last visit some years ago, has grown into a much larger site. There have been quite a few new memorials, all in all, it is a very interesting and touching place. It is amazing what you cannot see when sitting in an audience as we found out when visiting the Theatre Royal and Concert Hall in Nottingham. A backstage tour by Ezekiel Bones really opened our eyes to what goes on. Quite a few ladies went on a winter holiday to Bodelwyddan Castle, Rhyl and had a great time visiting Bangor and Chester and several others place. Another time we had a visit to a garden centre

Groby WI NEWS for an afternoon cream tea plus a lovely late evening stroll around the grounds. One of our favourite watering holes is Beaumanor Hall for their Pie Night, always a great favourite, especially with husbands, so it is always on our regular outings. The Federation Annual Lunch held at Barnsdale had Lucy Adlington as a speaker, she is a survivor of Auschwitz who survived by sewing for the German officers wives. There have been visits by several members to Denman College in Oxfordshire who took various classes. Should you fancy trying something different Denman will have it somewhere in their prospectus. Of course we also try to keep fit in between eating, weekly walks to Glenfield Country Market, local walks, around Abbey Park and our Derbyshire walks, that’s why we always has such good figures in the WI !! There is always our monthly meeting which has a very varied programme. We have made hedgehogs and angels out of old diaries, listened to Prof. Gavin Murphy speaking on obesity and how to survive after cardiac surgery. Been on Trial and tried by a Jury which was great fun and not to be taken seriously. Peter Tyldesley a Director of Bradgate Parks, a repeat visit by an old favourite Julie Ede on Edith Piaf, a charity speaker from Rainbows and John Flanner who is blind and spoke about his fears and faith. Our big outing where all the WI’s from Leicestershire and Rutland come together for their Annual Council Meeting had two great speakers. Nick Hamilton (the late Geoff ’s son) on how he and his brother have developed the garden and Lucy Worsley who gave us a marvellous talk on how four rooms of a house have developed over the centuries. It was eye opening to learn of the growing changes throughout time of each room to what we have now. Listening to Nick led us to a late afternoon visit in the summer, a lovely way to end the day, the garden stays open until late in the evening in July, highly recommended. I must mention the Village Show which, as you probably know, is run together with the Garden Society. Earlier in the year there was a plant sale where we do the refreshments, the proceeds of this go towards the running costs of the Show. A lot of effort is put into it but it is always worthwhile to see such a lot of local people of all ages either entering or just coming along. The only disappointment of the year was that our Skittles Team

unfortunately didn’t manage to take home the trophy (a mixed blessing, at least it will be one less thing to clean). The results of the tournaments didn’t really matter as players at each match said they had had a laugh, good meals and generally a good time. February’s speaker is Ali Groschi from Ratby who is talking about Smartsy fused glass. I just can’t imagine what Smartsy fused glass is all about but no doubt I shall find out at the meeting at the Village Hall on Thursday 18th February at 7.30p.m. If any lady is interested in coming along just to find out for herself what Groby WI meetings are all about, do come along at 7.30p.m. on the third Thurday of the month. You will be most welcome and hopefully enjoy a good evening.

Margaret Work First friend: ‘Who are you working for these days?’ Second friend: ‘Same people. The wife and four kids.’

How they met – in verse

Slippery ice, very thin; pretty girl tumbled in. Saw a boy upon the bank - gave a shriek, and then she sank. Boy on bank heard her shout, jumped right in and helped her out. Now he’s hers – very nice; but she had to break the ice.

Don’t forget to nominate your young person of the year PEOPLE ARE being urged to celebrate the inspiring young people in their local community by nominating them for this year’s Lord-Lieutenant’s Award. Each year, the Lord-Lieutenant celebrates the achievements of young people across Leicester and Leicestershire. The award scheme is open to all 13 to 19 year olds and individuals can be nominated by other young people, their school, parent or carer, as well as any other agency or individual. This year’s categories celebrate the very best examples of effort and achievement. People can nominate for: Young Braveheart, Young Volunteer, Young Sportsperson, Young Artist and the special Young Investigator. For 2018, the special category will commemorate the centenary of the First World War and projects must be inspired by the contribution of what are now the Commonwealth countries, either on the front line or in a supporting role behind the lines. The finalists and their parents will be invited to a special ‘red carpet’ awards evening and dinner held in April next year and hosted by the LordLieutenant. The closing date for this year’s nominations for braveheart, volunteer, sportsperson and artist is 31 January 2018. Entries for the Young Investigator of the Year are welcome until 9 February 2018.

My email password has been hacked. That’s the third time I’ve had to rename the cat.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

From finance director to successful children’s book author WHEN DR PETE CROSS, Director of Finance at Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust (LPT) started writing a book for his two sons as a Christmas present, little did he know that it would be snapped up by a publishing company. His book, ‘The Rockwall Brothers’ has already sold out on Amazon twice, and he’s donating December’s royalties to LPT’s charity Raising Health. Pete explains: “The book was originally meant as a Christmas present for my two boys. They love travelling and I thought it would be a good way to take them on an adventure around the world! Over Christmas family members started to read the book and told me it was really good, and that I should consider publishing it”. After taking his family’s advice, Pete decided to set the ball rolling and delve into the publishing world, receiving offers from three different literary companies who wanted to publish his book. All royalties from December sales of the book will be donated to Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust charity Raising Health, Leicestershire and Rutland’s Community and Mental Health Charity. The Rockwall Brothers follows brothers Jack and Charlie, who end up on more of an adventure than they had anticipated. It begins during the October half term, with a family trip to London, where the two brothers come across and are unknowingly recruited into Mi60, ‘the most secret agent service’ where they are led to believe they are going on a parent-free trip to Disney World on their own private jet; little do they know they are about to be dropped off in the middle of the Mexican jungle as the newest and youngest members of the agency. They travel the world, from Mexico to Morocco, fighting and protecting the world against their arch enemy, The Shadow. Pete said: “It’s something I’d never thought I’d do, I’ve not really written a book but I want to share it. “My boys are really excited to be the stars of the book, they are reading it again and are showing off to their friends at school.” Buy your copy now from: Austin Macauley Publishers or Amazon Our registered charity, Raising Health (charity number 1057361), fundraises to support excellent care initiatives, equipment and innovations which go above and beyond core NHS provision to enhance the experience of our patients, service users and staff. See www.raisinghealth. org.uk

Letter from Uncle Eustace

On the perils of parish cook books The Rectory St. James the Least of All My dear Nephew Darren THANK YOU for your contribution to our proposed parish cook book, “My favourite weekday dinner at home” – although I have to say that baked beans on a baked potato was a little unadventurous, even if I suspect, sadly, true. It is remarkable how many of my parishioners, when they know they will appear in print, apparently dine sumptuously every evening in their own homes. I could not help but feel that Miss Carruthers’ “weekday” recipe for “Gratinee de Coquilles Saint Jacques” was taking imagination rather too far, when everyone knows she lives on scrambled eggs on toast on a tray in front of the television. Asking the bishop to write the preface for our cook book has not turned out entirely successfully, since the greater part of it extolled the virtues of fasting. I suspect this may have something to do with his attraction to lean, muscular Christianity and his disapproval of my ample waistline. And when attending a social occasion at the bishop’s palace, “lean” would definitely be my description of the size of the sherry he pours. When you buy a copy of the book – which I am sure you will do as an act of solidarity – do not attempt to follow Colonel Humphrey’s recipe for a Madras curry. His father acquired a taste for it when he was serving in India and, regrettably, he brought the recipe back to England. It is guaranteed to reduce the bravest of men to tears; the Colonel’s four pink gins before dinner seem to give him a certain anaesthetic protection. The editor returned my own recipe, mentioning that the “two large glasses of red wine” specified in the list of ingredients was not mentioned in the recipe. I had thought it was perfectly obvious that they were there to be drunk while making the meal. The project is to raise funds to repair our medieval tower, which our architect tells us is largely held in place by its own weight. It is rather comforting to think that we shall preserve it for another generation by selflessly eating our way through roast pork, beef Wellington and chicken cooked in a wide variety of unpronounceable French sauces. Your loving uncle,

Eustace

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Leicestershire’s only major mining disaster Norman Griffiths finds it was just nine miles from Groby

A GROBY resident has a family connection with Leicestershire’s only major mining disaster and the heroism of the rescue teams. His grandfather, Ernest Hutchinson, was one of many who received bravery awards. In addition to working in the pit Ernest was an accomplished pianist who used to play at the Hermitage Hotel. Mining has always been a dangerous occupation, and not just because of the incidence of lung diseases. Accidents were not uncommon and a serious head injury left Ernest with a plate in his head and a lifetime of pain. His wife Priscilla was no stay-at-home spouse – she was a ‘coal higgler’, someone who sold coal to householders. She was the only woman that was ever known to take a horse and cart into Whitwick colliery yard to collect coal and sell it. She later sold the horse and cart and invested in a motor lorry, and then 2 more, to make her deliveries. It became the basis of P Hutchinson & Co, a very successful haulage business that has been passed through the generations. On 3rd July, 1986 the last shift came back to the surface at Whitwick pit and the colliery closed. Nearly one hundred years earlier, on April 19th, 1898, thirty five men and boys didn’t return to the surface, victims of the single worst incident in the history of the Leicestershire coalfield. The youngest victim was aged just thirteen years. It cost the lives of the men, and left 28 widows and 94 fatherless children, all under the age of thirteen. On April 24th a funeral was held of those whose bodies had been recovered and the streets were lined with almost 20,000 mourners who had come from neighbouring counties to pay their respects. A pit shaft had been sunk on land adjacent to what is now known now known as Hermitage Road by William Stenson, of Coleorton, in 1824. ‘Leicester Bright’ was mined from Whitwick, called this by Londoners who noticed that when burning it sparkled and shone when compared to coal from the Welsh coalfields. Stenson needed a way of transporting coal to Leicester so he contacted George and Robert Stephenson, and the Leicester Swannington Railway was constructed. The colliery employed a total of 820 men by 1969/1970 when coal production levels at Whitwick pit were at their peak. Between 1860 and 1909 245 miners were fatally injured, but the Whitwick Fire was the only major disaster in the Leicestershire coalfield, which in 1898, employed 6,271 persons in ten collieries. The archive documents relating to the disaster paint a familiar picture of lives lost as a result of the shortcomings of those who should have protected them. The thirty five victims were suffocated by fumes arising from burning timbers, which had been ignited by heat in the roof caused by the spontaneous combustion of the waste. These ‘gob fires’ had been a problem in the seam for many years but had always been successfully contained by removing the burning material and bricking up the affected area to keep it out of contact with the ventilation current passing down the roadway. The deputy on the night shift had inspected and bricked up ‘fires’ prior to the men starting work and the heat from them ‘was not so great as, in his opinion, to require special attention’. The outbreak occurred, however, in an area in which the ‘fires’ had posed a real threat to its safe working three months earlier and it appears, too, that there had been considerable discussion among the men as to the likelihood of the timbers being ignited. Despite the men’s concern, however, the mine manager had not inspected the area for over 2 months. Although the consultant mining engineer visited the colliery about once a week on average to consult with the manager on the general problems of running the colliery ‘efficiently and safely’ he had not actually been underground for two years. The Report into the disaster concluded that there was lack of ‘foresight on

the part of those charged with the care and direction of the mine’. The Report emphasized that ‘There was a potentially dangerous situation and we do not think that either (men) appreciated its gravity and merely considered that the gob fires could be easily dealt with in the ordinary way. It appears to us probable that if the circumstances had been duly weighed then precautions may have been taken, perhaps, a diversion of the main road away from the gob fires, or the substitution of brick arching or iron supports and cross-bars for timber in the main road’. Five of the forty workers escaped. If the fire had occurred during the day shift over a hundred more would have been at work. At the close of the Enquiry, the Jury said “We agree that we have not had sufficient evidence before us to prove culpable negligence on the part of any person. We agree to recommend greater precaution to be exercised by the more regular attendance of the Head Officials upon any site wherever gob fires exist. And that steel girders be used instead of timber wherever practicable. Also, that all dangerous places in any Main Road be encased by brick inverted arches. Also, that all return airways be traversed more frequently both by men and boys.” Dr Colin Griffin, a leading expert on the history of the Leicestershire coalfield, read the official report and the press cuttings and decided to look beyond the headlines. His focus was the Diary of the Coalville and District Miners’ Association, the forerunner of the Leicestershire Miners’ Association. “The Diary reveals that antagonism, hard bargaining, selfinterest and perhaps chicanery were as much a part of the Whitwick Disaster as the heroism and generosity enshrined in the public and popular accounts of the event,” explained Dr Griffin. He found that the initial unity between both sides of the industry in the face of the calamity, highlighted in the newspaper accounts and symbolized by the rescue operations, soon evaporated over the question of liability and compensation payments to dependants. The Chairman of the Disaster Fund, T H Heward, the manager of Coleorton colliery, urged the Union to accept an out of court settlement that gave the dependants a far lower level of compensation than legal counsel initially applied for in the courts. When faced with the prospect of being sued for negligence under the Employers Liability Act the response of the Company was short, but decidedly not sweet : “We are instructed to inform you that the Company repudiate all liability in reference to such claims.” The Union eventually settled for £35 each for 26 deceased members, when it had earlier intended to claim £205 each. Adjusted for inflation each widow received around £4300 at today’s prices for the loss of the family breadwinner or a son. The Diary also illustrates that the Union was strongly asserting during its membership drive of the later 1890’s that it was able to obtain higher levels of compensation for its members than an individual employee could obtain acting on his own initiative and illustrates the way in which the public distribution of the compensation payments was stage-managed by the Union to further this impression and notes the Union’s refusal to assist solicitors acting for the families of non-members killed in the Disaster. He hardship extended to those who survived or were not involved, as the Union’s only full-time salaried official, Thomas Chambers, was unable to prevent the Union’s governing body from taking an unsympathetic attitude towards those members made temporarily unemployed because of the disaster. At the Council Meeting of the Coalville & District Miners Association on April 30th the workmen of the Whitwick Colliery made an application to the Union Council for a week’s pay from the Association on consideration that they had been away from work “Six” clear days from “Tuesday to Tuesday” on account of the fire. But the Council decided that pay could not be granted and to dismiss the application “according to Rule 44 which reads no person shall receive support until he has been away from work six clear days from his last payment.”

Do you have a family connection with Whitwick Colliery that you would like to share withother readers? EMAIL US: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

You should be able to get out of a speeding ticket if you can prove you were listening to Van Halen.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

2018 Events Care for your own church building D

ON’T LOOK to the government for so much help. That is the message of an independent review which considered the Church’s reliance on government funding with regard to the upkeep of its church buildings. The review instead calls for a ‘cultural shift’, where communities contribute to their church’s upkeep.

The Taylor Report was commissioned in 2016 to report to the Chancellor and Culture Secretary. It recommends that from 2020, the Government provide £66 million a year, compared with the recent ‘exceptional hike’ of 2014 and 2016, when it was £90 million. The report says: ‘Long term, it is the view of the Panel that the Church of England should aspire to reach a position where its buildings can, as far as is possible, be financed sustainably with reduced reliance on government funding.’ It goes on: ‘The long-term survival of Church of England church buildings requires a change in the way many communities regard these buildings. ‘We need to create a cultural shift in attitudes towards church buildings such that communities realise they are resources they can use, and congregations have the confidence to share space and where appropriate, to ask for a fair income.’. The report also said that the main theme emerging from the thousands of churches who responded to the review was the ‘huge care that people feel for these buildings’.

Every Saturday morning 10.00am—12.30pm CATCH meets for play, craft, story & chat for pre-school children with a parent or carer 9.30-11.30am every Friday at Groby URC Chapel Hill

Fair Cuppa for FairTrade refreshments in fairly traded mugs. Every Thursday 10.3012am at the Village Hall

Weekly in term time for children for 6’s to 14’s on Mon evenings, at 6.00pm or 7.45pm. We meet at the United Reformed Church on Chapel Hill. Along with our work in schools, these are run by the two churches in Groby under the group name EXTEND.

For further information please see websites and church magazines St. Philip and St. James Rector – Rev Ed Bampton 01162396520 www.grobychurch.org.uk United Reformed Church Phil Holmes (Church Secretary) 0116 225 3335 www.grobyurc.com Extend Children and Families Worker John Fryer 07540 957926 & Youth Worker Amelia Collins-Patel 07879 437110

“I give it 75 years, tops.” - cynical guest at tortoise wedding.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Hazel and Michelle celebrate record year with Aussie singer Peter Andre TWO SLIMMING WORLD Consultants from Groby were congratulated on helping slimmers to lose weight and change their lives by singer and TV presenter Peter Andre. Hazel Hickson and Michelle Johnson were delighted to get a chance to cuddle up to Peter when he presented the annual Slimming World Awards. The Mysterious Girl singer co-hosted the event with the organisation’s founder and chair Margaret Miles-Bramwell OBE. Hazel, who runs a Slimming World group at Brookvale High School, Leicester every Thursday and Groby Community Centre, Groby every Thursday, said Peter’s presence at the awards was extra special because earlier in 2017 he supported Slimming World’s most successful fundraising event ever – The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw, which raised a record-breaking £3.3 million in just two weeks. The annual clothes throw encourages Slimming World’s 900,000 group members to donate the clothes, shoes, bags and accessories that are now too big for them to Cancer Research UK, by filling up specially-branded bags and taking them along to their weekly group sessions. “I couldn’t be prouder of my members. Throughout 2017 they have lost fantastic amounts of weight, with many of them hitting their target weights, improving their health and boosting their confidence. “It’s so rewarding to see people being able to do things that they didn’t think were possible before losing weight, whether that’s having more energy, feeling happier, wearing smaller clothes, taking up new hobbies, reducing medication or doing more with their family and friends. Every week I feel extremely lucky to play even a small part in people’s achievements and I felt very honoured to represent our Slimming World groups at the Slimming World Awards. “Cuddling up to Peter was a real treat. He was bowled over by the difference Slimming World makes to people’s lives and it reminded me what an important and privileged role I have as a Consultant. Now I’m heading into 2018 super motivated to support even more people in Groby to be inspired to lose weight and lead healthier and happier lives.” Michelle, who runs a Slimming World group at Glenfield Sports Ground, Leicester every Monday, adds: “Lots of people will be

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01530-244069 Email us at: info@ grobyspotlight.co.uk Visit the website at www.grobyspotlight.co.uk 3,500 copies distributed 11 times a year (no issue in July) to homes and businesses in Groby, Field Head and The Brantings. Compiled and published in the Parish of Groby & Field Head. Printed in Ellistown by Norwood Press. The Spotlight is a monthly compilation of articles, press releases, events, general items of interest and news items submitted to us by local residents, groups, associations, sports clubs and local authorities.

Slimming World Consultants Hazel Hickson and Michelle Johnson meet singer and presenter Peter Andre making resolutions to lose weight and improve their health this New Year. I truly believe that joining a Slimming World group is the best way for people to lose weight, learn new habits and improve their lifestyle. Thanks to our Food Optimising eating plan they will see big results on the scales without ever having to feel hungry or deprived, and they’ll discover a whole world of support and advice that’s sure to help them achieve their targets – and have a lot of fun along the way too! I’d love for anyone who’s thinking about losing weight this January to join us.” Peter, who set up his own foundation with Cancer Research UK – the Peter Andre Fund – after losing his brother to cancer, said he was thrilled to meet Hazel and Michelle at the event, which was held at Birmingham’s International Convention Centre. He added: “It was an honour to be invited to present the Slimming World Awards. I met so many incredible people who had lost

amazing amounts of weight and transformed themselves – inside and out. While each of them was inspirational in their own special way, the one thing they all had in common was how much they felt they owed to their “Slimming World family” in helping them to do things they always dreamed of and become the people they’ve always wanted to be. Every one of them spoke passionately about how they couldn’t have made the changes they had to eat more healthily and become more active without the support, advice and encouragement of their Consultant and group every week. So there’s absolutely no doubt in my mind that Slimming World and people like Hazel and Michelle are very special.” To be inspired to discover the real you with Slimming World in 2018 call Hazel on 07817 303018 or Michelle on 07788 745540 visit www. slimmingworld.co.uk to find your nearest group.

The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Spotlight Production Team. The inclusion of any group or organisation in this publication does not necessarily imply a recommendation of its aims, methods or policies. Groby & Field Head Spotlight cannot be held responsible for the information disclosed by advertisements, all of which are accepted in good faith. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, but no liability can be accepted for loss or inconvenience caused as a result of error or omission. Groby & Field Head Spotlight reserves the right to amend, shorten or refuse to publish articles and/or advertisements submitted for publication. All contents © Groby & Field Head Spotlight. None of the articles contained in this magazine are to be reproduced in any way without first obtaining written consent from Groby & Field Head Spotlight.

NEXT ISSUE OUT ON: 17th February 2018 DEADLINE: 3rd February

Imagine breaking up on the moon but then you have the whole rocket ship ride home together.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Both cyclists and pedestrians need to be safe on our roads Norman Griffiths hears the number of complaints is growing THE GOVERNMENT wants cycling and walking to become the norm by 2040 and says it will target funding at innovative ways to encourage people onto a bike or to use their own two feet for shorter journeys. Plans include specific objectives to double cycling, reduce cycling accidents and increase the proportion of 5 to 10 year-olds walking to school to 55% by 2025. It’s all part of a £1.2 billion longterm plan to make cycling and walking the natural choice for shorter journeys. The planned expenditure includes: • £50 million to provide cycling proficiency training for further 1.3 million children • £101 million to improve cycling infrastructure and expand cycle routes between the city centres, local communities, and key employment and retail sites • £85 million to make improvements to 200 sections of roads for cyclists • £80 million for safety and awareness training for cyclists, extra secure cycle storage, bike repair, maintenance courses and road safety measures • £389.5 million for councils to invest in walking and cycling schemes • £476.4 million from local growth funding to support walking and cycling • £5 million on improving cycle facilities at railway stations • £1 million on Living Streets’ outreach programmes to encourage children to walk to school • £1 million on Cycling UK’s ‘Big Bike Revival’ scheme which provides free bike maintenance and cycling classes. Most people will probably agree that the aims are worthy, but some – both cyclists and noncyclists – might question the cost effectiveness of the money already spent on cycle lanes on roads where the traffic is fast moving and cyclists take their lives in their hands staying in the cycle lanes. In such circumstances cyclists are often safer on the footpath, but that then raises issues of the safety of pedestrians. On highways where pedestrian numbers are low this is perhaps not an issue, but in

residential areas some cyclists may put other residents at risk. Parish Councillor Peter Batty believes that this is the case in Groby and needs to be urgently addressed by the parish council before someone gets hurt. He is receiving an increasing number of complaints about the number of adults irresponsibly cycling on footpaths. “In the absence of a cycleway the law requires that cycles are to be ridden on the road,” he explained. “It is in fact a criminal offence for adults to ride a cycle on a footpath/ footway next to the highway, a designated public footpath, or a footpath in a public park where a council’s by-laws prohibits cycling. Therefore, adults who ride their bikes on any footpath/footway (with no dedicated cycle lane, by the highway) in Groby are in fact committing a criminal offence for which a fixed penalty fine can be issued by a Police Constable, PCSO or Community Warden or for which they could be liable for a Court prosecution with fines on conviction starting at £500. “This “Anti-Social Behaviour” has been getting noticeably worse in Groby with most complaints relating to the relatively narrow footpaths on Sacheverel Way and even much worse the footpaths around Stamford Park which are regularly used by adults for short cuts and more increasingly for repeated circuit riding (sometimes at speed) very possibly as part a fitness regimes. It is simply ridiculous and should be of great concern to the parish council that pedestrians, particularly elderly people, are often having to step of the footpath on Stamford Park to avoid cyclists.” He is urging Groby Parish Council to pursue a campaign to tackle this dangerous noticeable increase in Anti Social Behaviour before someone is actually injured, by formally requesting action from the Police in respect of footpaths/ footways by the highway and by the parish council in enforcing its’ by-

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laws and placing prominent signs at all entrances to the parks that cycling is not allowed. There are numerous pedestrian ‘jitties’ joining streets in the village and these normally have a no cycling sign at each end. When they need replacement, however, it can be a long, drawn out process. In September 2016 there was a power cut when an underground cable exploded in the jitty linking Ferrers Rise with Chapel Hill. Western Distribution were soon on the scene but the sign on Ferrers Rise didn’t survive their adjacent excavation. It took 15 months for the replacement shown in the photograph to be erected.

Do you have any thoughts or experiences you want to share with other readers on this subject?

Groby Village Society

~ Preservation • Conservation • Communal Interests ~ Programme 2018 January 25

Members’ Evening

February 22

Bradshaws and an Early Railway Tour Robert Mee

March 22

A.G.M.

April 26

Victorian Optical Toys

May 24

More Made in Leicester

Bob Massey Brian Johnson

June 28

Calke Gardens-The Changing Seasons Celia Sanger

July 26

Eat My Weeds

Alison Coates

August 23

Reflections in Rhyme

Delia Bennett

September 27

Bitter is the Wind Tonight

Sandy Leong

October 25

Leicestershire Ghosts & Legends

David Bell

November 22

Fools and Horses

Ann Featherstone

December

No Meeting

Meetings are held at Groby Village Hall Starting at 7.30pm. The venue may have to be altered for some meetings. For Further Details Contact Hon. Secretary Mr. P. Castell Tel. 0116 287 9842. e-mail:- pcastell42@gmail.com Non Members are Welcome

I don’t even talk to the girl until the second date.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Groby Scout Group News THROUGHOUT 2017 you will have read about the various exploits of the Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers of Groby 73rd Scout Group in the Spotlight. It has been a busy year for the group with trips, camps and various outdoor activities very much enjoyed by both young people and the volunteer leaders. Early in the year the Beavers took part in a fantastic event, A Night at the Museum, Beavers from across the district joined together at New Walk Museum for a sleepover with the dinosaurs and the mummies. An evening of fun filled activities organised by an army of leaders and helpers led to a massively successful event full of smiling faces and many memories firmly made. The Cubs enjoyed a historical walk through medieval Leicester, passing through Castle Gardens they followed the path of the ancient city walls and learnt about the history of the city and Richard III, a night thoroughly enjoyed by all. Scouts and Explorers were involved in a “Crisis Command” event where they dealt with a fictitious road accident involving several vehicles and casualties. Teams were provided with information throughout the night on the reports coming in to the Police Control Room from the scene and witnesses. At the end of the event they completed the Police Accident Form to see how much they had observed and recorded. The event was designed to give them “hands on” experience in dealing with emergencies and also to hone their observational and reporting skills – the development of life skills being a critical aim of the scouting community. As the weather warmed up, several camps were organised both locally and further afield for all the groups. The young people were coming away from the camps with newfound confidence and abilities, many having stepped outside of their comfort zone to achieve the tasks set by the section leaders and helpers over the weekends away. For the 100+ young people involved in Scouting in Groby, 2017 has been a great year. There have however been some low points, 2016 and 2017 have seen a marked increase in anti-social activity around our Scout hut at Quarry Park.

We have had windows broken, attempted break-ins, our heating damaged through vandalism and other low level activities. All this detracts from the adults being able to focus on activities for the young people and it wastes the funds we do have as money is spent repairing our hut and equipment. Maybe for some, a new year’s resolution could be to start contributing to Groby and join the Scouts or Explorers instead of vandalising the facility that have been created for the young people in the village.

John Olynn Group Scout Leader (GSL) 73rd Leicester (Groby) Scout Group North East District, Leicestershire Mail: gsl@grobyscouts.org.uk www.grobyscouts.org.uk Registered Charity Number: 521753

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If me sleeping in the nude really bothers you so much why don’t you just take a different bus ma’am.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

News from Elizabeth Woodville Primary School It’s that time of the year again! It has been wonderful to end the year with three superb Christmas performances, which have delighted our watching audiences.

The ‘Wriggly Nativity’

Well done to Foundation for their debut solo performance of the ‘Wriggly Nativity,’ it was wonderful to see the children perform so confidently after only a term at school. The children shone like stars on the stage, telling the nativity story through creative songs and dances. The adults in Foundation are super proud of their amazing performance!

Christmas with the Aliens

Year 1 and 2 enjoyed sharing their story of Christmas with a ‘spacethemed twist!’ Their play called Christmas with Aliens was enjoyed by family and friends and the acting and dancing was spectacular, especially the Gangnam Style Donkeys! There was also a very special performance to the children of Catherine Infants School, we look forward to continuing this special relationship in the New Year.

Lights, Camel, Action!

Year 3 and 4 did a wonderful Christmas production of ‘Lights Camel Action!’ The play had a ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ theme, based on the nativity story. There were performances from ballet-dancing Angels, tangoing Innkeepers, Morris-Dancing Shepherds and Disco Stars! Our dancers, singers and actors showed amazing talent and we thoroughly enjoyed rehearsing and learning the catchy songs and complex dances.

Christmas Concert showcases our musical talent! At Elizabeth Woodville, we are very proud of the opportunities that the children have to play musical instruments. We were treated to a brilliant showcase of the musical talents in the school during

our Christmas Music Concert. Not only did the pupils provide fantastic entertainment, but the teachers were also involved by showing their individual talents and as part of the school orchestra.

The Leicester Mercury Education Awards 2017

We were incredibly proud to attend the awards evening as a shortlisted finalist in 3 categories in the Leicester Mercury Education Awards, which celebrated outstanding achievements from schools across Leicestershire. Congratulations to Mr Coleman on winning the Maths and Science Award, the judges celebrated our school’s approach to real life practical and investigative maths, science and technology, which has really brought learning to life with transformational results! Mrs Robinson was a shortlisted finalist for the Inspirational Teacher of the Year recognising her superb specialist English teaching, which achieved the highest results in our school’s history, in the top 4% nationally. The nomination praised Mrs Robinson’s approach, which, “… personalises learning to ensure all students within her class have support tailored to their needs. Every pupil knows that there are no limits on what they can achieve.” The school was also a shortlisted finalist for the Sports and Arts Award for our expertise in providing the highest quality of teaching and learning in physical education and school sport, offering an extensive range of sporting opportunities for all pupils.

Art & Crafts Club

The children used their weaving skills to produce some beautiful handbags and placemats. Mrs Greaves and Mrs Martin were very impressed with the finished results.

Cooking Club

Our Monday and Tuesday cooking club with Mrs Dunlop and Miss Toone has been a great success. The children have really enjoyed making cheese straws, fairy cakes, pizzas and even followed the process of making an apple crumble, from picking the apple off the tree to the lovely end result! Thank you to everyone for their support this year, we would like to wish all Groby Spotlight readers a very Happy New Year.

The best thing about owning a Smart Car is if you get too drunk at the bar you can just carry it home.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Borough Councillors’ Monthly Report Happy New Year to you. Ted and I hope you had a lovely Christmas and Wish you a Happy New Year.

Unsung Hero Denise Larrad VOLUNTEER Denise Larrad has been named the BBC Get Inspired Unsung Hero award winner at the Sports Personality of the Year 2017 ceremony. After being chosen to carry the Olympic Torch at the 2012 Games for her fundraising work,

Martin Cartwright Call: 0116 287 4500 Mobile: 078 50 70 70 50 E-mail: hbbc@appliancehome.co.uk Write: Maverick House, 10 Pine Tree Avenue Groby, LE6 0EQ

Ted Hollick Call: 0116 287 5955 Mobile: 07962 373983 E-mail: ted.hollick@tesco.net Write: 7 Shaw Wood Close, Groby, LE6 0FY

earlier in the month. “Thank you so much, this is so overwhelming,” said an emotional Denise Larrad. “Inactivity can be more detrimental to your health than smoking. There are thousands of people up and down the country who are doing a spectrum of sports you can get involved with - so find out who they are.” Natalie Jackson, regional awards organiser and sports editor of BBC East Midlands Today, said: “Denise’s story - and the fact she does this around the clock and whilst working night shifts - touched the judging panel. “She gives people who have had a tough time hope through sport and her work is a real life changer.”

the 55-year-old had one sole aim - to get the people of Hinckley in Leicestershire active. Despite working night shifts in a warehouse, she finds time to help lead walking, orienteering, running and general fitness classes for children, families and the elderly. The mother of two leads a host of different activities and exercises, including a beginners running group where she motivates and nurtures participants to run a 5k race. She is a trained walk leader, putting on weekly sessions for the elderly on behalf of the charity Age

UK and also organises orienteering courses across the borough in town parks, woodlands and schools. Kate Webb, from Age UK in Hinckley, said: “Denise has enabled us to offer walks to older people who are often overlooked. “This has led to our members getting fitter and healthier and through this having a better quality of life.” Denise Larrad received the trophy in Liverpool at the annual BBC Sports Personality show after winning the East Midlands award

During 2012 – 213 you may remember I (Cllr Martin Cartwright) was Mayor of the Borough Council raising £31,000.00 split between eight charities: Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, Dogs for the Disabled, British Heart Foundation, Marie Currie Nurses, Leicestershire Children’s Holiday Home (Mablethorpe), Cats Protection, PDSA, and the Neonatal Unit at the LRI Over £1000.00 of this was raised by Denise and I having events whereby for a small donation £1.00 you could have your photograph taken with the Olympic torch. Many of the photographs are still treasured today. Well done Denise on your fantastic achievements and thank you for your support in Mayoral Year.

Fake Speeding e-mail FRAUDSTERS are again trying to gain access to your computer and this time it may well catch you out! Simply put, you could receive an e-mail that says you have been

caught speeding and to click on the enclosed photograph to confirm it was you. Keen to discover it is not, understandably you may well click on the photograph to see whereby the damage is done and your computer compromised. Action Fraud has received thousands of reports about fake emails purporting to be from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) that claim you were caught speeding. Analysis of the reports shows the emails have been sent by cyber criminals to victims across the UK and not just in the GMP area. The emails claim that GMP are notifying you about a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) and have photographic evidence that you failed to adhere to the speed limit at specific date, time and location. This is of course not true, but it goes on to say that because you have been named as a driver of the vehicle you have a legal obligation to comply with the provisions of the notice. The aim of these emails is to get you to click on the link to “check the photographic evidence” which leads to banking Trojan malware. NIP’s are never sent by email, they are always sent through the post using a Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) registered address. GMP’s Cyber Crime Team have acted swiftly in relation to these reports and have removed one offending website which was hosted outside of the UK. Please be aware though that fraudsters are using mutiple domains to send out this spam. If you have received one, don’t click on any attachments, delete it and report it to action fraud.

Cathy Stephens Robbery OFFICERS are investigating a report of an armed robbery at a jeweller in Ratby Road, Groby, (Cathy Stephens) and are appealing for public help. Police were called at just before 5.30pm on Tuesday 19th December after four men entered the shop wearing balaclavas. The men were armed, carrying an axe and a crowbar. The axe has been recovered from the scene. The men left the store and left the scene in a red Ford Focus, which has since been recovered from Foxglove Drive, Groby.

Nobody works harder than a drunk person trying to carefully whisper a secret.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

A crowbar has been recovered from the car. Staff were inside the store at the time of the incident, but are not injured. However, they are understandably shaken. Individual items of Jewellery were taken. DS Jason Fell, who’s leading the enquiries, said: “We know there were a number of vehicles and people in the area at the time the men entered, and left, the store. “Did you see any one acting suspiciously? Did you see anyone you didn’t recognise? “Having as much information as we can at this vital stage of the investigation is very important. “If you were in the area around 5.30pm, any little bit of information you have may help the investigation. Please contact us.” Call 101, quoting incident number 454 of 19 December. INCIDENT UPDATE: Two men, aged 22 and 21, were arrested on Thursday 21st December, on suspicion of conspiracy to commit robbery. They have since been released from custody pending further enquiries. DS Jason Fell, who’s leading the enquiries, said: “From enquiries we’ve conducted so far it’s believed there may have been pedestrians and motorists in Foxglove Drive at the time the getaway car was left there, if you witnessed that or saw any suspicious activity in the area and have not yet come forward please get in touch.” Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101, quoting incident number 454 of 19 December.

Klondyke Steering Group I PREVIOUSLY reported to you that a steering group has been set up to progress the wishes of Groby residents by a clear vote in the Parish Poll by forming a steering group with me (Cllr Cartwright) as Chairman. Representatives are also from your MP Edward Argar, Ozzy O’shea (County Councillor for Groby) Groby Parish Council, Groby Juniors football club and residents representing the community view. The resolve of the last meeting was for Borough Council officers to seek advice from a barrister as to the viability of the different proposals for a CPO. This advice has been sought and it is now for the Borough Council Officers to present that advice and recommendations back to the steering group. Due to people’s availability and the potential for Groby Parish council to seek its own view the meeting will be held on January 26th 2018. Whilst this meeting is not a public meeting a report of its business will be included in the February 2018 edition of the spotlight.

We Are Here To Help You SHOULD you have any comments or problems you would like us to mention in our articles please get in touch. Ted and I would like to thank all those people in Groby whom devote a massive amount of volunteering time and resources without which the community would be far poorer. Thank you. Kind regards

Martin Cartwright & Ted Hollick

Goodbye to Christmas & a Happy New Year from Groby Community Library Christmas Tree WE HOPE you all had a good Christmas and enjoyed some festivities during the Christmas holidays. The Library kicked off early with Christmas celebrations. On December 1st our Christmas tree was amongst those in the wonderful display in the Christmas Tree Festival at St. Phillip and St James Church. If you thought a Christmas tree could only be green then think again, the Library’s tree was pink and was decorated in a Panto theme, ornaments included popcorn and sweets,” Oh no it wasn’t. Oh yes it was.” We think all who saw it would agree and say it was a “beauty” not a “beast” of a tree!

The Panto – Trail THE PANTO Christmas tree was followed up by the Panto Trail held on Sunday the 3rd December. This was an activity for all the family. We had made 10 displays each showing a different Pantomime eg: Peter Pan, these displays were positioned all over the village. The Panto Trail was a competition to see who could identify all 10 Pantomimes from the displays and written clues. We were fortunate with the weather, though it was cold, people could walk around the village without getting wet from rain or snow.

Peter Pan - Captain Hook’s Boat MEANWHILE in the Library, Robin Hood and Friar Tuck were giving out gold coins to all those who had been good and a Genie kept popping out from her magic lamp. Plus, the Fairy Godmother was making wishes come true with her wand and Snow White made cakes and drinks for everyone. The prizes for the winners of the Library Panto Trial were of course tickets to Pantomimes, “Oh no they weren’t.” “Oh, yes they were!” Local theatres generously donated tickets for Beauty and the Beast at de Montfort Hall, Aladdin at Century Theatre, Coalville and Robinson Crusoe at the Concordia Theatre Hinckley. There was also a “monster raffle” and a children’s fancy dress competition. Many thanks to all our local sponsors for prizes: Ben’s Kitchen, Bradgate Florists, Rachel Cooper-Kennedy @ Essential Oils, Groby Chinese, Groby Fish Bar, Groby Post Office, Natural Elements, Nottingham Building Society, Cathy Stephens, Studio J, The Stamford Arms and Becky Willet @ Tropic. Refreshments were donated by Laundon Way Co-op. Special thanks to Amellia Collins – Patel (Youth, Children and Families Worker) for taking on the unenviable task of judging the Children’s Fancy Dress competition so graciously.

Elf Workshop FURTHER FUN was to be had at the Elf Workshop we held on Saturday 9th December.

We ran a craft workshop for children to come into the Library and make a small something for Christmas. Lots of Children really enjoyed this and their parents were ever so grateful that all the sticky, colourful mess was in the Library and not in their own home!

Dickens at Chatsworth UNFORTUNATELY, we were unlucky with the weather on Monday 11th December, “snow had fallen, snow on snow.” Regretfully our trip to see Dickens at Chatsworth was cancelled. We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused and say that refunds of monies paid have been made.

The Café AFTER MONTHS of waiting and one or two set -backs we are pleased to announce that we have good news to share with you all. Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council have granted planning permission for the creation of a Café in the Library. We expect building work to start early in the New year. Watch this space for progress reports. We think that the café will be a great asset for our village providing a safe and welcoming environment for all. We are looking forward to developing it to become so. To run the café and to make it a success for everyone we need volunteers; it may be that you can only give a couple of hours a week? That’s fine, we don’t expect fulltime commitment after all “many hands make light work” If you’re interested in helping in the café please email us with your name, address and telephone number: volunteers@grobylibrary.co.uk or call in the Library and fill in a form. Thanks for all your support and making the Library a success during 2017 here’s to even more success in 2018. Happy New Year.

Dr. Janet Harrison, Groby Community Library Trustee

If I could have dinner with anyone, alive or dead, no question, I would want to be alive.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Free trees to make Leicestershire green

ARMERS, landowners and community groups are being encouraged to help improve the green areas of Leicestershire by applying for free trees. Leicestershire County Council has teamed up with the Woodland Trust to encourage farmers and community groups to provide a habitat for wildlife by planting trees across Charnwood, Hinckley and Bosworth and Blaby areas. Applicants can apply for: • A MOREhedges pack – which includes a minimum of 100m of new hedgerow, 475 shrubs and 25 trees ideally for planting every 20m. • A MOREwoods pack– which consists of free trees and shrubs to plant a woodland, no less than 0.5 ha (1.25 acres) in size. Councillor Pam Posnett, cabinet member for environmental issues, said: “We are delighted to be working with the Woodland Trust to provide free trees to farmers and landowners across Charnwood, Hinckley and Bosworth and Blaby. “There are so many benefits to the scheme. Trees enrich the landscape across Leicestershire’s countryside and also encourage wildlife and improve air quality.” The offer closes on Wednesday, 31 January. To register for a free pack of trees, email your name and contact details to plant@woodlandtrust.org.uk, or call 0330 333 5303. Please make sure you quote ‘Leicestershire County Council trees’.

A few facts about St Valentine’s Day - coming up next month

HERE ARE two confusing things about this day of romance and anonymous love-cards strewn with lace, cupids and ribbon: firstly, there seems to have been two different Valentines in the 4th century - one a priest martyred on the Flaminian Way, under the emperor Claudius, the other a bishop of Terni martyred at Rome. And neither seems to have had any clear connection with lovers or courting couples. So why has Valentine become the patron saint of romantic love? By Chaucer’s time the link was assumed to be because on these saints’ day -14 February - the birds are supposed to pair. Or perhaps the custom of seeking a partner on St Valentine’s Day is a surviving scrap of the old Roman Lupercalia festival, which took place in the middle of February. One of the Roman gods honoured during this Festival was Pan, the god of nature. Another was Juno, the goddess of women and marriage. During the Lupercalia it was a popular custom for young men to draw the name of a young unmarried woman from a name-box. The two would then be partners or ‘sweethearts’ during the time of the celebrations. Even modern Valentine decorations bear an ancient symbol of love - Roman cupids with their bows and love-arrows. There are no churches in England dedicated to Valentine, but since 1835 his relics have been claimed by the Carmelite church in Dublin.

Latest News from Foundation Class:-Lights, Camera, Nativity

Imagine you’re on a Hollywood film set, complete with actors, producers, co-producers and very enthusiastic clapperboard operators. Then close your eyes and squint a little and you realise that all the players are between four and five years old. You would never have realised that this was the first time on a school stage for these children, bearing in mind that they have only been in full time education since September. The lines and songs were pitch perfect and delivered enthusiastically,with no fidgeting or little waves to Mum. A solo by Mia was particularly memorable, belted out with the confidence of a true professional. If this was this class’s first effort, one can only look forward to their progress through the school, but this play has set a very high bench mark.

Year 1 and 2:- Christmas with the Aliens

A spaceship making its way through our Solar System, crewed by the weirdest looking aliens you could imagine, develops a fault and needs to land. Nearest refuge, Earth, at Christmas time. The aliens land and are befriended by children, who, of course, would not find it in the least bit strange to be confronted by three bright green beings with just one eye and an aerial growing out of the top of their heads. They are taken along to the school, who are rehearsing their Nativity play under the control of a very scary teacher, not, of course, mimicking anyone from Martinshaw. They were allowed to stay and watch and, worried about their ship, constantly interacted with the actors and players. After all, Joseph was a carpenter, ideally suited to fix a galaxy travelling spaceship. The ship is fixed, the aliens continue on their journey, educated into the strange ways of earthlings, with their heads filled with the story of the Nativity and the songs delivered so well by their new friends.

Year 3 and 4:- Dragon Days, A Winter Performance

As the students get older, we’re now writing about 7,8 and 9 year old’s, the plots get more complex and the narrative slightly longer. This play was set in a Bavarian village, complete with leiderhosen clad Burgers, Crones, Secret Agents, even a leather jacket clad Justin Beaver style hero, various animals and of course, what play would be complete without Ninja Warriors. It was all about about a man eating, fire breathing dragon, who after being confronted by our heroes, turned out, in fact, to be very much misunderstood, as he was really quite cuddly, with a bit of an inferiority complex. As it is with these stories, everything turned out in the end. The whole show lasted about an hour with some wonderful solo singing performances and also some equally wonderful feats of memory, to be able to remember very complex lines and long speeches. All together a great show and great costumes with the enjoyment, confidence and enthusiasm of the children shining through throughout.

Christmas Tree Competition

Each class was tasked to produce and decorate a Christmas tree, with a prize of £20 for the best judged tree. Specialist and unbiased judges were invited in to carrying out this very onerous task and who better to appoint than the Greys of Groby, who, fortified by mince pies and coffee provided by the MSA, closely examined the entrants, voted, and the decision was a tie between the trees of Foundation Stage and Year 5.

Everyone else my age is old, whereas I am merely in disguise.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Martinshaw School Rather than split the prize, the MSA found another £20, consequently both winning classes were given the money to spend on something for the classroom. Now, talking about Christmas Trees, about 8 or 9 years ago the school planted some Christmas Firs at the back of the school playing field. They needed thinning out so it was decided that some of them would be sold. About 8 or 9 did, in fact, grace a few houses in Groby. However, the biggest and best was donated to a local care home and was last seen being transported in a 4 X 4, with rather a lot of it sticking out of the back of the vehicle.

School Choir Sings for the Greys of Groby

The School Choir attended the Community Centre on Forest Rise to sing for and with the ‘Greys of Groby’. This has become something of an annual event and is very much enjoyed by the choir members and the audience. In fact, the chair of the ‘Greys’ told me that when the choir visits it puts all the members fully in the mood for the festivities to come.

Vandalism at the School

As many people are aware, a few weeks ago external areas of the school were attacked by vandals. Play and learning equipment in the Foundation Class and Year one outside storage were attacked causing distress not only to the children but everyone involved with the school. Various people had worked long and hard to raise the funds to make this play and learning area second to none. Then a chink of joy in this rather sad episode, completely unsolicited, Baker Hughes (formally Druck) held a coffee morning and presented the school with a cheque for £260 towards replacing the equipment. Through these pages the staff, pupils and parents of Martinshaw Primary School,would like to thank the staff of Baker Hughes for their kind and thoughtful gesture.

Owen Lawrence

Glenfield Millennium Green News

WE WERE delighted to be joined by members of the Ratby Co-operative Youth Brass Band who accompanied our Carols on the Green on Saturday 23rd December. This year the weather was kind to us, no rain and not too cold, and around 80 people turned out to sing. Those who come regularly say that they feel Christmas has begun when they join us on the Green. Afterwards the warm fruit punch and mince pies were enjoyed as a reward. Thanks to the band –we hope you can join us again next year! Planning for the New Year is already underway. As always we would welcome new ideas from users of the Green, for community events and ways to raise money. We are also in need of people to help with our planning and who could assist at events. Why not come to our AGM on Thursday February 15th at 7.30pm. It is being held at Park House, Stamford Street, Glenfield. It will give you the chance to meet the Trustees and other supporters and help us to move forward in 2018. For details phone 0116 2991868. One piece if good news is that we have obtained funding to improve the surface of the paths in the garden area. This will hopefully be done as soon as the weather allows. In spite of the severe frosts and heavy rains a few daffodils are already in flower. Don’t forget to let us have any used postage stamps you have saved from your Christmas post.

John Springthorpe

(Chairman Glenfield Millennium Green Trust)

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Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

Word Search Puzzle RESOLUTIONS Wordsearch

06/01/2018

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IF YOU can find 12 NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS in this issue’s Wordsearch puzzle, you could win yourself a meal and a drink. This month we are offering a tasty prize of: A Main Course for Two, plus A Bottle of House Wine at The Solutions forFieldHead Districts Hotel. Free

E L P O E P W E N T E E M X D G V T

E H D E H T G K O C B S L N K I T E

S P E E D V S X G X S F I M K V S Y

S M A W S W Y L Z E A M S X G E S L

U P I H T I X G R S R Z E M A U E Q

B G N F S B N T I U E L C R Y P L I

N E B U K N S A O Q A W N O Z S H Z

T S M G K E I Y G L B M A O T M C W

Resources To go into the draw, all youWhat have toWe do is find - andWho mark aWe lineAre through - 12 COMMON NEW YEAR Offer Teachers Parents Student RESOLUTIONS.These can run vertically, horizontally or diagonally (and backwards!). Send your entry to: RESOLUTIONS, Groby & Field Head Spotlight, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT to arrive by Saturday 10th February 2018. Remember to include your name and address. The first all-correct entry drawn out of the hat will win the prize. Good P J K Q R Q I O E F luck! V Y L E X M F D R Z

O O C A E T U R O J H U M O T R

K U R V P J E R O J C Q U K A M

D J O E R Q E G A E E A I I W G

Q R W I A M K A E A R R N N K J

P V Q V O C G I C I O O U G F V

B A X N F L T K T X M Z M C G G

V Q E A Y Y M I O J E L D E F G

Y Y S U H P V L V E K M T I B L

O M L E V A R T X E A A Z B V Q

B E M O R E P O L I T E I A J Z

Here are the 12 RESOLUTIONS you have to find:

GET IN SHAPE • IMPROVE YOUR MIND • MEET NEW PEOPLE BE MORE ACTIVE • TAKE MORE CHANCES • EARN MORE MONEY BE MORE POLITE • REDUCE STRESS • GIVE UP SMOKING WATCH LESS TV • BE MORE ORGANISED • TRAVEL MORE Name: ................................................................................................. Address: ................................................................................................ .................................................................Postcode: .............................

Last Month’s Wordsearch Winner The first correct entry drawn out was from:

Miss Shannon Carter of Lena Drive, Groby

Congratulations! We’ll post your voucher to you within the next 28 days.

65 years ago: Discovery of the double-helix B

BEMOREACTIVE BEMOREORGANISED BEMOREPOLITE EARNMOREMONEY GETINSHAPE RITISH SCIENTISTS Francis Crick and James Watson GIVEUPSMOKING IMPROVEYOURMIND announced that they had discovered the double-helix MEETNEWPEOPLE structure of DNA 65 years ago, on 28th February 1953. REDUCESTRESS In making the announcement, Crick said: ‘We have discovered the secret ofTAKEMORECHANCES life.’ This was true as far as it went, and is the subject of a compelling TRAVELMORE book by Watson called The Double Helix. WATCHLESSTV In fact, however, they did not discover DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). That was achieved in 1869 by Friedrich Miescher in Switzerland. Nor, if you want to be precise, did they discover the double helix shape of it, since that feat was accomplished by x-ray crystallographer Rosalind Franklin. Created by Puzzlemaker She had managed to take an X-ray diffraction pattern from a sample of DNA that showed a clearly recognisable cross or helical shape. One of her colleagues showed Watson the image, and it confirmed experimentally the correctness of the theoretical model that Crick and Watson were working on. The discovery of the double helix changed the world of medicine and science for ever. Crick and Watson, with Maurice Wilkins (Franklin’s colleague), won the Nobel Prize for Medicine or Physiology in 1962. Tragically, Rosalind Franklin did not receive the praise or the prize, because the rules prevent it from being awarded posthumously, and she had died in 1958 of ovarian cancer. She was 37.

at DiscoveryEducation.com

Express checkout

WAS in the express lane at the supermarket, quietly fuming.

Completely ignoring the sign, the woman ahead of me had slipped into the checkout line pushing a cart piled high with groceries. Imagine my delight when the cashier beckoned the woman to come forward, looked into the cart and asked sweetly, ‘So which six items would you like to buy?’

It was so cold last night, that I put anti-freeze in my hot water bottle.

Groby & Field Head Spotlight • MID-JAN 2018 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@grobyspotlight.co.uk

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The BBC to increase coverage of religion T

HE BBC has recently pledged to ‘raise its game’ on religion by increasing the portrayal of all faiths in mainstream shows.

The corporation said it would ‘enhance’ the representation of religion on TV and radio dramas and documentaries. It said it would also create a new global religious affairs team, headed by a religion editor, in BBC News. The BBC will also keep Thought For The Day on Radio 4’s Today programme The plans include: • There will be more about non-Christian festivals like Diwali, Passover, Rosh Hashanah, Ramadan and Eid on mainstream programmes like The One Show, The Chris Evans Breakfast Show and Newsround. • There will be landmark programmes to ‘explore religion in all its forms’, including a major TV series about the world’s sacred sites, a Radio 4 series on morality in the 21st Century, and a Radio 2 initiative to encourage young people to discuss issues about peace • 2019 will be ‘A Year of Beliefs’, with programmes looking at how people make big decisions and where they get their moral values from. • There will be more ‘people-led stories that have warmth and depth’, such as observing vicars working in local communities. • There will be tie-ins with music and comedy, and more digitalfirst video and social media content. The role of the religious affairs correspondent - currently Martin Bashir - will be upgraded to religion editor, leading BBC News’s new global religious affairs team. BBC News will also broaden the range of interviewees and contributors to represent a wider range of opinions and practices

My 10 year-old niece says her prayers every night, but instead of ‘amen’, she says ‘click, send.’