The Herald Mid-June 2020 Issue by Michael Wilkinson

AS APRIL & MAY ISSUES WERE ONLINE ONLY, WE ARE BRINGING OUT A JULY ISSUE NEXT MONTH.

Film your flowers!

Take part in Thornton VIRTUAL Open Gardens MOST OF US are spending more time in our gardens this year and many of us are rather pleased with how they are looking! What a shame that those in Thornton will not be able to be opened this year for the Open Gardens that was planned for June! As we will not be able to go and visit our neighbours’ gardens, I thought that it would be a nice idea to put together a kind of virtual Open Gardens in the form of a short film of ‘Gardens in Thornton’ to share with fellow villagers. This would be made up of photos or short videos and would be available on the village facebook page and village websites for us all to share and enjoy (possibly via Youtube). To take part: • Use your phone or camera to take photos, a video or a combination. • Please take them in landscape, rather than portrait if possible. • Videos should aim to be up to one minute in length. Longer videos (absolute max of 3 minutes please) can be sent in but it is possible that I may need to edit them down to one minute, depending on response. • If sending only photos, please send a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 12 • You may appear in your photo/video if you wish but the aim is to show the beauty and diversity of the gardens. • I will not attach any precise addresses or surnames, but would ideally like to use first names of those whose gardens they are, and possibly the road you live in. Please let me know which you would prefer and make clear if you wish to be totally anonymous. • If you wish to take part, please let me know at thornton. opengardens@outlook.com • Photos can be sent to the same e-mail address (max e-mail size 12MB please) • For multiple photos or for videos, please e-mail me first so we can arrange how they can be sent to me; or share with me on Onedrive, Dropbox or some other cloud method! • Please let me have your photos or videos by 20th June …and don’t forget to put a note in your diary to take part in next year’s Thornton Open Gardens event, organised by the Friends of St Peter’s Church, which will be in June 2021.

Lis Muller

MID-JUNE 2020

The Bishop of Leicester is pleased to announce the appointment of

The Revd. Andrew Smith Curate at The Church of Christ the King, Kettering, in the Diocese of Peterborough, as Rector of the Benefice of Markfield, Thornton, Bagworth and Stanton under Bardon and Copt Oak. The date of Andrew’s licensing will be announced in due course.

Giant snake discovered in Markfield!

THE MARKFIELD Adder - made up of painted stones appeared at the park near Markfield Community Centre. After 4 days we now have 284 Painted stones going round the path. It’s a great community initiative that lots of people have joined in with!

Sallyann Fowles

Reserve Deliverers Required by The Herald The Herald needs a few additional reserve deliverers to step in on the occasions when one of the regular deliverers is unavailable. Are you able to help? No training is required, it’s a healthy way to spend an hour or so once a month, and you get paid! You need to be over 13. Contact Herald Delivery Manager Rowan Pell on 01530 242059 for more information.

NEXT ISSUE OUT ON 18TH JULY • ARTICLE/ADVERT DEADLINE: 4TH JULY

THE HERALD • MID-JUNE 2020 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT Tel: 01530 244069 info@markfieldherald.co.uk

Message from The Bricklayers’ Arms in Thornton WE HOPE all friends and customers are keeping safe and well at this difficult time.

We look forward to seeing you all again soon. Take care.

Ben & Jan

www.markfieldherald.co.uk

The Herald is a monthly local magazine delivered free to approximately 4,000 homes and businesses in Markfield, Field Head, Stanton under Bardon, Thornton and Bagworth. Contact Mike Wilkinson with your articles, news items or advertising enquiries.

Message from Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council

No swimming allowed in Markfield’s Hill Hole Quarry LOCAL PARENTS are being asked to talk to their children about the dangers of swimming at Hill Hole Quarry. Swimming and Water Activities are not allowed The high perimeter fencing around the lake at Hill Hole Quarry is there for a reason - to stop you getting into danger. Never climb the fence or enter through gaps. Water can look inviting but it is very dangerous to swim in quarries. The water is very deep and cold. You may also get caught up in things you can’t see under the water’s surface. Cycling and Climbing at Hill Hole Quarry are not allowed The rough terrain at Hill Hole Quarry might seem great for biking and climbing there are many uneven surfaces, and the rock faces may crumble which could result in serious injury to you if you fall. Please observe and follow all notices and signs on the site. If you notice any gaps in the fence, please contact the Borough Council on 01455 238141 (office hours) or 01455 251137 (out of hours). If you see anyone trespassing inside the fence, you should call the Police on 0116 222 2222. In the event of an emergency, dial 999 for the emergency services.

Printed by Norwood Press in Ellistown. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Herald Production Team. The inclusion of any group or organisation in this publication does not necessarily imply a recommendation of its aims, methods or policies. The Herald 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. The Herald reserves the right to amend, shorten or refuse to publish articles and/or advertisements submitted for publication. All contents © The Herald. None of the articles or adverts contained in this magazine are to be reproduced in any way without first obtaining written consent from The Herald.

Dancing in the Street ... in Croft Way! CROFT WAY’S daily dance has been causing quite a stir on social media and now on the BBC! After a brilliant fancy dress daily dance the videos were picked up by BBC East Midlands and have been cheering people up all around the UK. BBC Radio Leicester even dedicated a 15 minute social discoing event to Croft Way on the 3rd of May. Its been fantastic seeing neighbours at the end of their drives checking in on each other. We do 5 songs a day and have a Croft Way playlist on Spotify. We take requests, do tributes, sing Happy Birthday and have danced to over 140 songs! We will miss the daily dance when things start going back to normal! We are glad it has brought so much cheer and community spirit during Covid-19. Thanks!

Jo Norwood & Clemency Al-Toma

A lot of people were confused at the grand opening of my ribbon-repair business yesterday.

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Bloomin’ marvellous! IT’S BEEN fantastic receiving photos of our sunflowers starting to sprout! We potted and delivered around 1,400 sunflower seeds around the village to start a village growing competition and spread some cheer during Covid-19. A big thank you to locals Dave Moss and Ian McDonald for nurturing extra seedlings and to the Markfield good neighbour scheme for helping with delivering. Our green fingered leader at the minute is Skye Eames, we can’t wait to see them in bloom! We are still running our weekly sessions, we have switched to using Zoom until its safe to return to the community centre. Our online sessions are open to all young people not just Queen Bee Youth Project members. We are doing all sorts of activities from yoga, football, meditation, hypnotherapy and so much more. You can message us on Facebook for more information and log in details. Find us on Facebook @queenbeeyouth Stay Safe, Stay alert!

Jo and Zoe - Queen Bee Youth Project *Photo of Skye Eames, age 8 & her super sunflower

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My wife and I decided we don’t want children. If someone wants them, we’ll drop them off tomorrow.

THE HERALD • MID-JUNE 2020 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

National Trust Leicester Association

Six people in one street shared the jackpot

Postcode Lottery winners share £1,000 each after Markfield neighbours scoop the prize

MANY OF YOU will have visited Stoneywell Cottage at Ulverscroft over the last five years. However, like all other ticketed entry NT properties it is now closed due to the coronavirus. So how is the property faring during the lockdown? The first few weeks were quite hectic closing the property down after only being open for six weeks. Now most of the staff are furloughed and those remaining have a list of essential tasks to keep them busy. A close eye is being kept on the environmental conditions in the cottage and there are also regular conservation tasks. Incredibly without the constant flow of visitors the doors are opened much less and the flow of air through the cottage is reduced. This means that the usual environment in which the “collection” is kept has changed which in turn means changing heat and dehumidifier settings to achieve a stable environment. Core garden tasks continue, assisted by staff from Calke Abbey. This includes maintaining plant health, watering, sowing green manure in the kitchen garden to supress weeds and working on invasive species in the woodland. By not mowing the lawns and paths, plants such as Bugle, Tormentil and Bird’s Foot Trefoil have appeared in the grass. This in turn has led to the appearance of Common Blue butterflies and many Soldier Beetles. Also the local wildlife gets braver every day. A cock pheasant has appeared who thinks the garden belongs to him and a muntjac deer has taken up residence and sleeps amongst the rhododendrons around the tennis court. In addition the slow-worms and common lizards no longer hide away but lie in the sunshine on grassy paths usually being used by visitors. Even though the National Trust has now reopened some of its large country estates to visitors, due to its compact size, Stoneywell Cottage is likely to be one of the final NT properties to reopen to the public. The National Trust Leicester Association has now cancelled all of its activities to at least the end of August. Full details, including Stoneywell updates, are on the Association web site at – www.leicesternt.btck.co.uk

Alan Tyler, Publicity Officer NT Leicester Association

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SIX PEOPLE in Markfield are celebrating after winning £1,000 each thanks to their lucky postcode. The Chambers Close neighbours netted the windfall when LE67 9NB was announced as a daily prize winner with People’s Postcode Lottery recently. People’s Postcode Lottery ambassador Judie McCourt sent her well-wishes to the winners. She said: “What amazing news to get on the weekend. Congratulations to our winners.” The latest draw was promoted by the Wildlife Trust, which has so far received more than £12 million in funding from the players of People’s Postcode Lottery. The trust looks after more than 2,300 nature reserves and operates more than 100 visitor and education centres across the country, working to make life better for wildlife, people and future generations. Many other good causes have also benefited from the lottery and local charities can next apply for funding in August. For more information on People’s Postcode Lottery, visit www.postcodelottery.co.uk HAVE YOU WON A FORTUNE ON A LOTTERY DURING LOCKDOWN? WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING TO SPEND THE CASH ON WHEN THINGS RETURN TO NORMAL? AND CAN WE SHARE YOUR WINNINGS? IF SO - DROP US A LINE AND TELL OUR READERS!

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My poor knowledge of Greek mythology has always been my Achilles elbow.

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Markfield WI News ... from Lynda Owen

Keeping connected during Lockdown AS FOR everyone it has been very strange for WI members being unable to get together for our usual monthly meetings. We first kept in touch with others by phone and email until our President Fran got us organised into having committee meetings, and now our monthly meetings, via Zoom. It’s been surprising how quickly some of us have embraced technology and it was really good to see eighteen of our members Zoom In for our May meeting. It was largely a chance to catch up on what everyone has been doing, following which Rosie entertained us with some topically garden-themed poems and monologues. Fran has also produced a newsletter for members so that we can keep up to date with what each of us is up to. Being the WI there has been a lot of baking, some members having sourced flour and sugar in bulk and distributed it to others. There has also been a lot of exercise (probably due to the baking) with members gardening, dog walking and even walking 5 miles round the garden. I think the amount of gardening being done bodes well for Harvest Festival, if we are free by then donations or a sale of produce may be on the cards. Like many others members have also been sewing scrubs and masks as well as rediscovering crafts like knitting, crochet and patchwork. Many of our members are older and/or on their own and we hope that through the newsletter and Zoom they will feel more connected and know that even without physical meetings we are all part of something and can count on one another. It’s hoped that any members who are able to do so will join the next Zoom meeting on 17th June. It you are not able to, please let Fran have any info about what you have been up to and any photos or suggestions for the newsletter.

Markfield Writer A Psychic In The Picture: True Life Stories Of A Psychic By Patricia Bown

THIS BOOK tells, in her own words, the true life stories of a Psychic, PATRICIA BOWN. From the ‘Dancing Lights’ she saw in the corner of her bedroom at just eight years old, to Premonitions, Pictures of the Future, A Ghostly Wedding Guest and so much more. The book recalls a lifetime of extraordinary events. Prepare To Be Amazed!

I didn’t realise how bad a driver I was until my sat nav said: ‘In 400 feet, do a slight right, stop, and let me out.’

THE HERALD • MID-JUNE 2020 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

In danger from domestic abuse? DOMESTIC ABUSE is soaring just now. Even as far back as early April, it was up by 30 per cent. No wonder, then, that charities are urging us to keep an eye out for anyone in danger. The warning signs include bruising, repeated shouting and all types of controlling behaviour.

Dare not speak? If someone is in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police. If you dare not even speak, then use the silent solutions service by dialling 999 and press 55. If there is no immediate danger, you can still contact the 24-hour confidential National Domestic Abuse helpline on 0808 2000 247. Refuge, the national domestic abuse charity, estimates about 1.6 million women already experienced domestic abuse last year, and that “self-isolation has the potential to aggravate pre-existing abusive behaviours.”

Calling All Businesses If you’d like to support the Herald by advertising in the magazine, that would be fantastic! And ... you’ll probably attract some new customers in the process, so everyone’s a winner! Call Mike Wilkinson on 01530 244069 for more information. Or visit the website at www.markfieldherald.co.uk Thanks!

Getting Creative During Lockdown

Groby singer Jordan releases his first single Hi - my name is Jordan Bakewell from Groby and I have just recently returned home after working on Carnival Cruise lines as a Singer / Dancer. I have trained in the Performing Arts industry since I was 15 and I eventually qualified with a degree in Musical Theatre in 2017. When the lockdown began I decided it was a great time to work on my music and I have written four songs in total that will be released as a EP album in the summer, titled “Get Funky.” I recently released my first single from this EP called “No Sleep ‘til the Morning” which is available right now to buy and download on all music platforms. My second single will be released on the 19th June called “Get Funky” which is also the title track of the album. I was lucky enough to work with a very talented music producer from the Netherlands called Robin Wesley in this process. I am hoping to bring smiles and laughter back to people in these difficult times with my music and I definitely think my songs represent that. I would love for everyone to go and check out No Sleep ‘til the Morning and get behind a local lad in the area. Thank you to anyone that has took the time to read this little article and I hope you all enjoy my music! You can follow my social media accounts to keep updated on new releases. Best Wishes, Stay Safe.

Jordan Instagram: @Jordan Bakewell, Twitter: @Jordan Bakewell Facebook: @Jordan Bakewell Music, Spotify / Apple Music: @ Jordan Bakewell

‘Safe spaces’ in Boots BOOTS has become one of the first high street stores to create ‘safe spaces’ to help victims of domestic abuse who need help during the coronavirus lockdown. The pharmacy chain, which is the biggest retailer of its kind in the UK, has opened consultation rooms in its 2,400 high street stores. People who have been unable to seek help while trapped at home with an abusive partner can access these ‘safe space’ rooms. There they will find posters providing the phone numbers of the key support services, as well as helplines whom they can call without fear of their abuser eavesdropping on them.

Tidal wave of sales coming “This summer will be an absolute bonanza for shoppers, and they should be selective and patient… discounting will continue throughout the summer.” So says Clive Black, a retail analyst at Shore Capital. He explains that billions of pounds of winter stock is coming over to the UK in ships, but the retail warehouses are still full of unsold summer stock... “The magnitude of what has happened has never been seen in modern times.” No wonder, then, that some analysts predict that shops will offer up to 70 per cent off throughout July, August and September.

If I leave my computer idle for 10 minutes, an image of Jesus pops up. It’s my screen saviour.

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Howard Russell THE FAMILY of Howard Russell, who died peacefully on 29th April 2020, would sincerely like to thank all the family and friends who lined The Nook, Main Street and Ashby Road on the 12th May to pay their respects as they travelled to the private funeral service.

Seeing so many people who took their time to be there gave us great comfort at this sad time. Due to the unprecedented circumstances that Covid 19 has left us in, the usual service of saying goodbye couldn’t be held. A public celebration of Howard’s life will be held at a later date when circumstances allow. Donations in Howard’s memory for The Bob Champion Cancer Trust and Bowel Cancer UK may be made online at www.ansteyfunerals. com or sent to Anstey & District Funeral Services, Talbott House, Leicester Road, Anstey. LE7 7AT 0116 234 0548

Bradgate Rotary & The Stamford team up

Pizza project raises over £5,000 for charity BRADGATE ROTARY through lockdown is holding its weekly meetings on Zoom, ensuring its commitment of raising funds for local charities and supporting the local community. They have already teamed up with the Stamford Arms, Groby to set up the Bradgate Rotary Pizza project. Pizzas can be ordered from the Stamford Arms on 0116 2875616 and delivered to your door, available Friday and Saturdays between 4 and 7pm; orders from 2pm daily. This weekend we will be delivering our 1000th Pizza raising over £5,000 for local charities and the local community. All proceeds from the project goes towards Bradgate Rotary’s charities and projects, including the production of the 2021 Bradgate Park Calendar, this raising another £4000 for Bradgate Park Trust. The Bradgate Rotary Club is grateful to the Stamford Arms and its volunteers for their support in the project and a £500 grant from Regional Rotary to set up the project. Search for Bradgate Rotary Club @ bradgaterotary on Facebook for more information, new members always welcome.

Inspecting mirrors is a job I could really see myself doing.

THE HERALD • MID-JUNE 2020 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

‘NO-FAULT’ DIVORCES:

Leicester Solicitor Discusses the Future of Divorce A BILL introducing ‘no-fault’ divorces in England and Wales that is being debated by MPs in Parliament is “long-awaited”, according to a solicitor from Leicester-based law firm Nelsons.

The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill – which has already been passed in the House of Lords – has been hailed as the biggest shake up in divorce law for 50 years. It seeks to end the “blame game” and reduce the impact that allegations of blame can have on a couple and, in particular, children. Currently, in order to start divorce proceedings immediately, you must prove your marriage has broken down and give one of the following five reasons – adultery; unreasonable behaviour; desertion; you have lived apart from more than two years and both agree to the divorce; or you have lived apart for at least five years. Ultimately, unhappiness is not a legally sound reason for the court to grant a divorce. However, under the proposed law, one spouse will only have to state that the marriage has broken down irretrievably. The new bill also removes the possibility of contesting the decision to divorce. Emma Davies, partner in the divorce and separation team at Nelsons, said: “The current law is set out in a statute that was passed in 1973 when people’s attitude to marriage and divorce was very different and society has greatly changed since then. We have moved on but we’re still having to establish fault in the vast majority of cases. “A change in divorce law has been long-awaited by many family lawyers who consider the current laws to be outdated, simply increasing animosity and acrimony in already difficult circumstances. In this day and age, it’s unfair that a couple are forced to stay together even if they have tried to make their marriage work but have been unsuccessful. “The new bill will replace the five facts with a requirement to provide a statement of irretrievable breakdown. An aggrieved spouse will no longer be able to contest the decision of their spouse to divorce, and the court will be able to make a conditional order after a 20-week ‘reflection’ period has passed. The bill could introduce the concept of a joint application being made by both spouses for a divorce along with a minimum timeframe of six months. “Despite the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill representing a welcomed change for many family law professionals, there are concerns that removing the blame from divorce proceedings and simplifying the process will lead to a spike in divorce cases – especially in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic and reports that divorce enquiries are on the up as a result of the strain that has been placed on relationships during lockdown. “However, it has been stressed that the focus of the proposed new law ending the ‘blame game’ will prevent situations where the law exacerbates conflict and harm to an already fragile relationship, particularly when it comes to dealing with other issues that inevitably arise from the breakdown of a marriage, including arrangements for the children of the family and the matrimonial finances. “While it is proposed that there should be a change to divorce law, the law in respect of financial provision on divorce will remain the same.” The move to change divorce laws was partly prompted by the case of Tini Owens, who was refused a divorce from her husband after 37 years of marriage. As her husband contested the split, the law stated she could only obtain a divorce by living apart from him for five years. Mrs Owens’ case was heard and rejected by Supreme Court justices in 2018, one of whom stated that it was up to Parliament to change the law. For more support when it comes to divorce and separation, please visit www.nelsonslaw.co.uk/divorce-andseparation.

The new dieter’s 10 commandments 1. If you eat something and no one saw it – it has no calories. 2. When you eat with someone else, the calories don’t count if they ate more. 3. Tasting someone else’s food doesn’t count. 4. If people around us gain weight, we automatically become thinner. 5. If your movie ticket comes with a free tub of popcorn, it doesn’t count as food. 6. Every food you split into smaller pieces will contain less calories. 7. Tasting food while preparing it is essential, and therefore – healthy. 8. Foods with similar colors contain the same amount of calories. This is why it’s fine to eat pistachio ice cream instead of spinach. 9. Chocolate has a dedicated area in the stomach, which is why you should have it with every meal. 10. Frozen foods, such as ice cream, contain no calories. The reason is that a calorie is a measurement of heat units.

THE NEXT ISSUE OF THE HERALD IS OUT ON 18TH/19TH JULY. Please send your articles and adverts by 4th July. Thanks!

I get very nervous on a first date, which is surprising as they are the only kind I have.

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CATHOLIC CHURCH OF ST WILFRID OF YORK 53 London Road, Coalville, LE67 3JB DUE TO COVID-19, ALL SERVICES ARE CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. • The parish website below contains links to the live streaming of Masses and devotions as well as links to prayer and scripture resources. • The EWTN Channel (Eternal Word Television Network), not on Freeview unfortunately, also broadcasts Masses and devotions. • Fr Gabriel is available throughout this time if a priest is needed. Parish Contact Parish Priest: Fr Gabriel Offor – 01530 832098 www.stwilfspriest@ gmail.com Parish Website: www. stwilfscoalville.blogspot.co.uk Markfield Masses Congregational Church Hall, Main Street, Markfield (next to the Chinese takeaway) Wednesday, 16 September at 7 pm if the Covid-19 restrictions are lifted. Markfield Village Contact: Margaret on 01530 243292

Message from Chris Chorlton at Mercenfeld Primary School

I WOULD like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to the local community as the Headteacher (to be) of Mercenfeld Primary School. I am really excited about joining the school in the autumn term and leading the next stage in the journey the school takes. For the last eight years I have been Headteacher at Newtown Linford Primary School, and before that I was the Deputy Headteacher at Ratby Primary School for nine years. As you can see, I have been working in the local area for a long time and love the beauty of the countryside but the closeness to the city too. Working with parents, carers and members of the local community, I want to enable all children leaving Mercenfeld to be resilient, independent, confident and nurturing individuals. I want to ensure that creativity is at the heart of everything all our children experience for exactly the reason in the diagram above. I look forward to the opportunity of meeting you.

I really want to buy one of those grocery checkout dividers but the lady behind the counter keeps putting it back.

THE HERALD • MID-JUNE 2020 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

We have seen the best of people during this crisis Borough Councillor Matthew Lay writes in The Herald A MASSIVE reason for me deciding to stand as your local Borough Councillor some 25 years ago, was because I wanted to stand up for my community and represent its interests in what at the time seemed the distant overlords in Hinckley. Twenty-five years does change your perspective on things, but what hasn’t changed is the strong sense of identity and community which I believe makes Markfield and Stanton special places to live. Recent events have confirmed once again this to be true and that in our community we have some great people who really get it and do so much to contribute to the place in which we live, but that we also need to think about the future and how we preserve what is special and understand better what makes it so. The past 12 weeks have helped cement a true sense of identity to where we live and we should think on the positives of this and try and take some good from the ongoing tragedy that is COVID 19. The contribution from all the volunteers of the good neighbour scheme has been inspirational and their ‘can do‘ attitude is refreshing in a world of unbridled cynicism. The eagerness to do good things carries others to consider if they could help and it is very much self-fulfilling just as the opposite can also be true. The problem equation is: how do you sustain something born out of a crisis to become a more sustainable feature of how we work together? Such a positive feature was also evident when people came together to save the library in Markfield and I would say that has been a big success for all concerned and especially for our community and has crucially been sustainable beyond the initial saving of the library stage. In truth when we are pushed to respond to negative events we have often managed to do so - and do

it well. We have a lot of talented and good spirited people in our midst and we should be thankful for this because it does enrich our community and not everywhere is as blessed as we are. What we need to do is to find a way to harness that talent and commitment to not only sustain what we have but also improve it too, and build something greater than what we already have. This is of course much harder because not everyone will agree what that ‘greater’ looks like or how we get there. Still that is no reason not to try. Looking back in time, the community we live in has many times delivered impressive results. Such examples are sometimes less evident today because they are no longer visible. Back in the early 1970’s the local community came together to build a swimming pool so that all children could learn to swim. It was a very much a voluntary team effort and local builders gave up time to construct it while local fundraising secured the necessary resources to make it happen. I benefitted as did many of my fellow peers and it is where I learnt to swim. The pool is no more and before long those efforts will be nothing more than distant memories and notes in a local history book, but nevertheless it happened and in its day it was remarkable. Other examples of his exist and actually if you scratch the surface of our community you find an army of people doing good and enriching our lives without fanfare or reward. We are going to face massive challenges when we do finally emerge from the COVID mess. We went into it with public services already stretched and as we come out - and the economic consequences are totted up - I expect more cuts to be imposed. These cuts will be felt as most public bodies have long stopped doing anything non-discretionary. This will place the role of good spirited people into the front line

in ways not normally considered. This will also move the level of provision to one which is not universal but dependent on the willingness of people to volunteer. I don’t think that is right and there are better ways forward, but they require difficult choices to be made at the very time when it seems it is no longer what so called serious politicians do anymore. I am sure our communities will face up to the coming challenges but we need to find the best ways of harnessing this remarkable strength and ensuring that they want to do this and that it is not simply taken for granted by the powers that be. We have seen the best of people during this crisis and it is often said that the worst brings out the best. I hope we can keep that going.

Howard Marston Russell DURING the COVID crisis my Uncle sadly passed away (not from COVID I should add). Howard Russell was born and bred in our community and died at the age of 84. I wrote the eulogy for him just as I had done for his son Stuart last summer. Howard had lived a good life and had many friends and family who cared deeply for him. The service was limited by the restrictions placed on such events by COVID so we were not able to give Howard the send-off we would have liked. I am sure many people will have had similar experiences and it is one of the sadder parts to this whole crisis. Still when we get back to a sense of normality we will have a thanksgiving service and we can pay full tribute to his life. It is nothing less than he deserved.

Planning Application 20/00407/HYB Wood Farm, Stanton Lane. FINALLY I have written a few times about the challenges ahead, not least

on the planning front and the attempts by developers who want to concrete over the countryside around us – countryside that is part of the Charnwood and National Forest designations. Application number 20/00407/ HYB is one of the most destructive applications to land in recent years and seeks to build a further massive warehouse on land that crosses the B585 towards Stanton under Bardon. This extension of the Bardon industrial estate is unwarranted and will destroy open countryside for yet more giant sheds that employ few people and even fewer on decent permanent terms. They bring few economic benefits locally and yet we suffer from the massive increase in HGV traffic that come and go. Critically It will also open up more land to this possibility. Please take a look at this application and consider objecting to it before more of the space around us is devoured in the name of progress that is frankly nothing of the sort.

Matthew

Two dogs walked over to a parking meter. One said to the other: ‘How do you like that? Pay toilets!’

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Remembering the man who founded Barnardo’s

Logging Off By Nick Spalding

IT WAS 175 years ago, on 4th July 1845, that Thomas Barnardo, the humanitarian and philanthropist, was born in Dublin.

ANDY BELLOWS is in a right state. Plagued with insomnia, anxiety and neckache, he’s convinced there’s something seriously wrong with him. And the worst thing is that his doctor agrees. The diagnosis: Andy is in the grip of a self-destructive addiction to technology—he just cannot put that bloody mobile phone down. Texting, tweeting, gaming and online dating—technology rules Andy’s life. His phone even monitors his bowel movements. So how will he cope when he’s forced to follow doctor’s orders and step away from all of his beloved screens? When he loses his precious digital window on the world, Andy discovers just how bewildering and scary living an analogue life can be. And when his sixty-day detox hits the headlines—making him a hero to suffering technophiles everywhere—Andy is sorely tempted to pack it all in and escape in the nearest Uber. Can he get himself out of this mess, and work out how to live a better, technologically balanced life…without consulting Google even once?

He founded Barnardo’s, a charity which continues to care for vulnerable children and young people. The son of a furrier, he worked as a clerk until converted to evangelical Christianity in 1862. He moved to London, intending to study medicine and become a missionary in China. He never qualified as a doctor – despite being known as Dr Barnardo – and soon decided that his real calling was to help poor children living on the streets of London, where one in five children died before their fifth birthday. He opened his first home for boys in 1870 and soon vowed never to turn a child away. Most Victorians saw poverty as shameful, associating it with poor morals and laziness, but Barnardo refused to discriminate. He made sure boys were trained and found them apprenticeships. When Barnardo died in 1905, he left 96 homes caring for more than 8,500 vulnerable children, including those with learning difficulties. Because he believed that children should ideally grow up in a family setting, in 1887 he introduced an early form of fostering – boarding out children to host families.

One Moment By Linda Green Finn and Kaz are about to meet for the first time... Ten-year-old Finn, a quirky, sensitive boy who talks a lot and only eats at cafes with a 5-star hygiene rating, is having a tough time at school and home. Outspoken Kaz, 59, who has an acerbic sense of humour and a heart of gold, is working at the café when Finn and his mum come in. They don’t know it yet, but the second time they meet will be a moment which changes both of their lives forever . . .

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THE HERALD • MID-JUNE 2020 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

County Councillor’s Report from Peter Bedford Email: peter.bedford@leics.gov.uk or phone: 01455 824733 or www.facebook.com/peterbedfordmdt HELLO EVERYONE, I hope that you are keeping well as we all adjust to new ‘norm’. It has been great to see so many community spirited volunteers continuing to help support each other locally. Most notably in recent weeks with the Markfield Good Neighbours (MGN) Scheme volunteers assisting with ‘social distancing’ at the Post Office. Thank You for all that you are doing!

Covid Update As at 27 May there were 2,177 lab confirmed cases in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR) 349 people who tested positive with coronavirus have sadly died in Leicestershire’s hospitals. Antibody testing to show if people have had coronavirus is going to be rolled out from the end of May. There will be a phased approach with NHS staff and social care staff taking priority. The initial number of tests available will be small, but this will be increased by the end of June. It’s important to note that antibody testing does not mean that people have immunity even if they have a positive result and social distancing rules still need to be observed. For more information about the government’s coronavirus antibody testing programme can be found: www.gov.uk/government/ publications/coronavirus-covid-19antibody-tests Local authorities in LLR are part of eleven areas in England selected to share good practice for the new test and trace service, a key element in the Government’s fight against coronavirus. Each local authority will be given funding to develop tailored outbreak control plans, working with local NHS and

other stakeholders. Work on the plans will start immediately and focus on identifying and containing potential outbreaks in workplaces, housing complexes, care homes and schools. As part of this work, local authorities will also need to ensure testing capacity is deployed effectively to high-risk locations. Local authorities will work closely with the test and trace service, local NHS and other partners to achieve this.

Recycling and Household Waste Sites The County Council re-opened seven of its Waste & Recycling sites from the 18th May at: Barwell, Lount, Market Harborough, Melton Mowbray, Mountsorrel, Oadby and Whetstone. Whilst this is great news it is important that residents should only go to the tip if stored waste is becoming unsafe at home and a risk of causing injury, illness or harm as there continues to be additional pressures disposing of this waste owing to the National situation. Initial feedback from residents that have used the most local sites at Barwell & Mountsorrel has been positive The pre-booked time slots can be made: https://www.leicestershire. gov.uk/environment-and-planning/ waste-and-recycling/book-a-wastesite-appointment

Planning matters Whilst planning matters are decided by the Borough Council (HBBC), and which I do not as County Councillor get a vote, I continue to work closely with

Parish Councils to ensure that the views of local residents are taken into account before decisions are made. Aggravated by the lack of a sustainable five-year housing supply we have seen the number of speculative planning applications, our side of the Borough, sky-rocket during the past year. Residents have made it quite clear that they do not wish to see excessive housing developments foisted upon them. As such I continue to work with the County Council, typically a consultee in the process, to ensure that Highways, Education, and Infrastructure impacts are fully considered and taken into account by the Local Planning Authority at Hinckley.

South Charnwood School Walk I continue to work with LCC Officers on solutions to the concerns expressed by many parents of students at South Charnwood High School over the safety of the school walk. Recent progress has been made on: • Hedge and vegetation encroachment on to the footway – LCC will inspect the route for vegetation to ensure cutting and ‘edging back’ increases the width of the pavement. • Bus Service – LCC to support the School in the exploring and developing options regarding bus service and its cost.

Peter Bedford •

Social distancing – LCC to assess impact of ‘social distancing’ on the walking routes to the school and exploring central government funding where available to address concerns. At County Hall our meetings continue to take place via Skype and seem to be working well. We continue to have weekly ‘all member’ briefings on Covid with really good engagement and collaborative working across all political groups. I have now attended ZOOM meetings with Desford, Markfield and Stanton under Bardon Parish Councils all of which went without too many technological hiccups! I continue to wish you and your families well; and please do not hesitate to contact me if there is anything you need. Best wishes,

Peter (County Councillor for Markfield, Desford, Bagworth, Thornton, Botcheston, and Stanton under Bardon) E: peter.bedford@leics.gov.uk or T: 01455 824733 www.facebook.com/ peterbedfordmdt

I come from a broken home, although it was just a hairline crack before I came along.

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News from the Groby Sings Gang! How to IT’S NOW MORE than 2 months since the suspension of our Monday singing sessions at the Groby Club and don’t we miss the singing together and general camaraderie of those regular get-togethers? It’s been particularly hard for those Groby Singers who have mobility, medical or social difficulties and whose visits to Groby Sings might have been their only weekly outing. However, in spite of the Coronavirus lockdown measures, Groby Sings carries on (title for a future concert?!). Our management team, trustees and various volunteers have been dedicated to making sure that Groby Sings continues, albeit in a different form, and in spite of many of our other activities being restricted. Jane and Ruth have been doing a great job of co-ordinating messages to and from choir members via email and Facebook and our conductor, Helen, sends out a weekly newsletter which incorporates not only her own wacky musings and details of her latest attempts to master new skills (gutter cleaning, learning the piano, baking, to name but a few) but also contributions from choir members noting their own recent activities. These range from learning the accordion to canal-clearing! Helen has been compiling her newsletter whilst residing in deepest Derbyshire – no, she’s not cheating by living in her second home, she actually lives there so not much chance of accidentally bumping into anyone in Groby and district at the moment. However, like we singers, she’s very much missing Groby Sings and this is a great way of maintaining contact with everyone. It’s no secret that singing reduces stress, improves your mood, and generally brings more fun into your day so at this particularly difficult time in all our lives, we at Groby Sings are trying to encourage anyone and everyone to sing. It doesn’t matter if you don’t think you’ve got much of a voice, just try it – no-one outside your household will hear unless you’ve got the windows open! Gareth Malone and The Great British Home Chorus and various other online choirs have encouraged some of our singers to join in via YouTube for extra practice. Gareth has even used some of the songs in our repertoire (has our fame spread?). Groby Singers have been encouraged to keep singing at home on Mondays at our usual rehearsal times. We sing along to a ‘Song of the Week’ from our suspended programme Groby Sings On The Road using our rehearsal cd or a version on YouTube. Now, to keep up the momentum, Helen and the team have proposed a special weekend, 27th /28th June, in lieu of our postponed concerts. We always look forward to the performances and especially the rehearsal afternoon beforehand when all 3 choirs - afternoon, evening and children – come together for the first time after rehearsing separately for the previous 4 months. It’s unbelievable to think that over 200 amateur singers and musicians of all ages and abilities come together for the first time, rehearse for only a couple of hours and produce an awe-inspiring sound before performing in concert that evening and again the following day. We will all really miss the buzz it gives us but the plan is for us to perform in our own homes a ‘concert’ of the 10 favourite songs voted for by Groby Singers from the 200+ songs we’ve performed over the last 7 years. We’re being encouraged to dress up and remember Helen’s costumes such as Maria (Sound of Music), Agnetha from Abba, the ringmaster (Greatest Showman) and who could forget the banana (South Pacific)?! There might even be some singers who live in your road putting out bunting, raising a glass or a cup of tea and, of course, eating cake to celebrate – look out for them and why not join in and have a bit of fun?

The virus hasn’t beaten Groby Sings yet, don’t let it beat you. Stay safe, happy and sing!

make your wife more efficient AN EFFICIENCY expert was delivering a seminar on time management for a company’s junior executives. He concluded the session with a disclaimer: “But whatever you do, do NOT attempt these taskorganising tips at home,” he said. When he was asked why not, he explained: “Well, I did a study of my wife’s routine of fixing breakfast. I noticed she made a lot of trips between the refrigerator and the stove, the table and the cabinets, each time carrying only one item. So, I told her: ‘Darling you are making too many trips back and forth carrying one item at a time. If you would only try carrying several things at once you would be much more efficient.’” He paused. “Did that save time?” one of the executives asked. “Actually, yes,” the expert answered, “It used to take her 15 minutes to fix my breakfast. Now I get my own in seven minutes.”

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My wife said we needed to communicate more. I knew she was right so I gave her my email address.

THE HERALD • MID-JUNE 2020 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

The Luke Jackson Trust from 1630 THIS CHARITY has been in existence since 1630 and it is governed by the will of Luke Jackson, originally from Thornton, a girdler in the City of London, dated 26 January. The term girdler does not refer to ladies’ undergarments, a girdle is another term for a belt. The ‘Worshipful Company of Girdlers’ is still in existence as one of the 110 Livery Companies in the City of London (https://girdlers.co.uk). Many of these can be seen taking part in the parade at the Lord Mayor’s Show in November each year. Luke’s will bequeathed portions of land to be rented out and the proceeds used for the relief of the ‘industrious and deserving poor’ in the parishes of Bagworth, Thornton and Stanton under Bardon. Although the will granted monies to several other beneficiaries, one part of the will left 40 shillings per annum to the church of St Peter in Nottingham. In return it was required that two sermons be delivered on the 28th July and 5th November, to give thanks ‘for the deliverance of this land and people… from the invincible Armada in 1588, and from the Gunpowder Plot of 1605.’ The other proceeds were to be distributed to the poor people of that parish. It then required also that two sermons be preached at St Peter’s church in Thornton on the same basis and the residue be distributed among those of the parish. At that time both Bagworth and Stanton under Bardon were part of the parish of St Peter, Thornton. The Holy Rood church in Bagworth was a ‘chapel of ease’ that is, one which the people of Bagworth might use rather than journey on foot to the parish church in Thornton in hard weather. The will provided that Luke’s brother George and ‘four others’ be appointed to act as trustees. As this developed over time it became tradition that the trustees be drawn equally from the three beneficiary villages. In 1882, the land was divided between the trust for St Peter’s Nottingham and St Peter’s Thornton. Nottingham received 2 acres, 3 roods and 7 perches; Thornton received 2 acres, 2 rods and 9 perches. At the same time the requirement to preach the sermons was removed. The income of the trust - then only £46 and10 shillings - was split between the villages at £15 each, with the residue reinvested. The amounts paid varied between 2 shillings to 12 shillings (10 pence and 60 pence), ‘according to the want of

the family.’ In the 1950s the trustees decided that given that most people were covered by the Welfare State with pensions, Unemployment Benefit, and the NHS, the charity should review how it distributed its revenues. The decision was taken to pay to all those in the villages in receipt of the state pension. Most of the population were in work and the state pension was little more than subsistence. It should also be noted that the life expectancy in the 1950s rarely exceeded 70 years, so most of those retiring at 65 would be drawing a pension for little more than five years. This method of payment has operated since then, with the amount varying, dependent upon the performance of the investments and land rental. We are still able to make one-off grants for those having a particular need. These are made on an ad hoc basis and are considered separately from the annual disbursement.

The Luke Jackson Trust today MUCH OF the organisation of the Trust remains as it always has: there are trustees from each of the villages, all of whom give their time freely in the execution of their responsibilities. Those Trustees who are in receipt of state pension receive the same as everyone else. There are few costs to incur and its only sources of income are from a special investment trust mandated by The Charities Commission and rental of a parcel of land near Battleflat at the southern edge of Bagworth. Over the years the Trustees have had to review the working of the charity, for example, we pay one amount to married couples and another to those who are single but when equal opportunity legislation was introduced we had to consider those people who were in same-sex and civil partnerships, co-habiting couples or siblings living together after losing their spouses. The changes in society have exposed anomalies in the way that we distribute funds, which were never envisaged when the last review took place in the 1950s. People are also living longer: the average lifespan in the UK is currently 79 for men and nearly 83 for women. Each year the Trust disburses just about what it earns and since 2008, there have been times, when more

has been paid than was earned, in the hope of making up the shortfall in better years. The amount we disburse has remained the same. At the millennium when all of us were younger and prettier, £10.00 could buy pretty much all that was needed for a Christmas lunch. Nowadays it may buy half a chicken - if you go to the supermarket at the right time.

Standardising the payment AT THE moment we are unsure of what the Covid-19 crisis will do to the value of the investments and it may be that we are unable to make a payment this year. The Trustees will have to make a decision later in the year once a more settled financial climate develops. Nonetheless, given all the anomalies which have arisen since the last review, the Trustees have decided to standardise the payment value to a per person basis. That is, instead of paying one amount for a married couple and another for a single person, we will pay one amount per person. This avoids the unfair situations inherent in the present system. For example: two unmarried adults in the same household would receive two single persons payments amounting to £14, while the married couple nextdoor would receive only £10. The intention of the trustees is that this should be financially neutral. We would disburse no more than we would have done in previous years. However, until such time as we can make a reasonable assessment of the financial state of the trust, we cannot estimate what the payment may be for 2020, if at all. Given the age of the recipients and indeed, many of the trustees, if we are still socially isolating parts of the community, it may not be possible to arrange a payout event. Many other small village trusts throughout the country have passed by the wayside over the years, some local to us. Nonetheless it is the intention of the Trust to continue its work into the future. Perhaps it may be possible to make a donation to our local churches in return for sermons giving thanks, (we hope) for our deliverance from Covid-19, rather than the Spanish Armada and the Gunpowder Plot! We are sure that Luke would approve.

Graham Aldred, Trustee

“The Trustees have decided to standardise the payment value to a per person basis.”

SNIPPETS

Non-essential retailers to reopen from June 15 NON-ESSENTIAL retailers will be able to reopen stores in England from June 15 as long as social distancing measures are implemented, the government announced. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that open air markets and car showrooms would be allowed to open from June 1, and that all other non-essential retailers could open from Monday June 15th. The openings would be “contingent on progress in the fight against coronavirus” and retailers would have to adhere to the new rules.

Changes to concessionary travel

LEICESTERSHIRE County Council have announced that from Monday 8th June, concessionary travel on public transport reverted to pre-lockdown arrangements, which allow free travel for bus pass holders between 9.30am and 11pm (Monday - Friday), all day Saturdays, Sundays and Bank holidays.

During the lockdown, concessionary passes could also be used for free travel before 9.30am so that older and disabled people had access to supermarkets and other essential shops that specifically opened earlier for them. The easing of lockdown means more people will be using public transport for work and school during the morning peak hours, so the change is considered necessary to ensure bus users will be better able to follow government social distancing guidelines.

They demolished my local Domino’s Pizza today, and all the other shops in the street fell down.

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Digital Library Services FAQs Quick Guide to eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines and eNewspapers What Digital Library Services are Available? LEICESTERSHIRE’S digital library service provides library members with access to thousands of free eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines and eNewspapers. These can be accessed two ways: • Using the free BorrowBox, RBdigital & PressReader apps on a smartphone or tablet • Using an internet browser on a desktop PC, MAC or laptop All digital titles are free and there are no overdue charges. Leicestershire Libraries subscribe to three platforms, BorrowBox, RBdigital and PressReader, each platform provides access to different types of content: • BORROWBOX eBooks eAudiobooks • RBDIGITAL eAudiobooks eMagazines • PRESSREADER eNewspapers eMagazines Digital formats include a range of functionality so people can personalise their experience, including choosing font size, playback speed and enabling translation and voice-overs.

How do I Access Digital Library Services? TO START using any of the services visit the digital library webpage which gives step by step instructions on getting started. You must be a member of the library to access the digital library services, if you are not already a member you can join online to start using BorrowBox, RBdigital and PressReader straight away. To login to BorrowBox, RBdigital and PressReader you will need your library card number/ online joiner number and your four-digit PIN. If you have forgotten your PIN you can reset it by visiting our online catalogue, selecting ‘log in’ in the top right corner and choosing ‘forgot my PIN’. However, this only works if we have your up to date email address on record, if it doesn’t work please contact libraries@leics.gov.uk and we will send you a PIN via email.

How do eBooks & eAudiobooks work?

How do eNewspapers & eMagazines work?

EBOOK and eAudiobook titles are purchased individually in the same way as physical books.

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Most eBooks and eAudiobooks can only be borrowed by one person at a time due to licensing restrictions. LCC buy multiple copies of some popular titles that have been reserved by several people to reduce the waiting time for in-demand titles. Some popular titles and authors are not available to borrow digitally from public libraries, this is due to restrictions put in place by publishers. • • Borrow up to 10 eBooks and 10 eAudiobooks from BorrowBox and 10 eAudiobooks from RBdigital at a time. • • Borrow titles for up to 3 weeks, return titles when you have finished reading them or renew titles to borrow for longer. • • Titles automatically expire at the end of the loan period so there are never any fines. • • If an eBook or eAudiobook is currently on loan then you can reserve it, you will be added to a queue and the title will be added to your account when it becomes available. • • BorrowBox and RBdigital are not compatible with Kindle eReaders due to Amazon restrictions, however the BorrowBox and RBdigital apps can be downloaded to Kindle Fire devices and eReaders. Visit the digital library webpage to get started.

eMagazines can be checked out from RBdigital and PressReader.

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eNewspapers can be checked out from PressReader. eMagazines and eNewspapers can be checked out for as long as you like, just delete them from your account when you have finished reading them. There is no limit to the number of titles you can checkout at a time. • RBdigital provides access to popular titles including Hello! Magazine, Radio Times and New Scientist. • PressReader provides access to thousands of national and international newspapers and magazines including The Independent, The Daily Mail, The Guardian and the Leicester Mercury. • Titles can either be read online via a web browser or downloaded via the RBdigital or PressReader apps to be read offline. Visit the digital library webpage to get started

More Information & Help MORE information is available at the below websites: • BorrowBox help page – you must login using a Leicestershire library card number and PIN to see the help page • RBdigital Help Page • PressReader Help Centre If your query has not been covered by these FAQs, please contact us on 0116 305 2695 or email us at libraries@leics.gov.uk

Art Exhibition goes online ATKINS GALLERY’S popular annual Open Exhibition is set to return this summer, in an accessible online format. In response to the current pandemic, Atkins Gallery will be creating a digital gallery to continue supporting local artists. The Atkins Gallery is calling all local artists to get their creative juices flowing around the 2020 theme of ‘Life in Lockdown’. Artists are asked to consider how this time has affected them and what they have been up to during this recent change of pace. A range of interpretations of the theme are welcome so artists are urged to please get their paintbrushes out - or whatever their preferred medium is – and get their thinking caps on! Artwork and statements should all be emailed to info@atkinsbuilding. co.uk Submission of digital works is open from now to Friday 26 June 2020. Atkins Gallery Annual Open Online exhibition opens on 1 July and runs to 14 August 2020.

For a brief moment, I got excited because I thought my toothpaste said anti-plague instead of anti-plaque.

THE HERALD • MID-JUNE 2020 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

Depression implant transforms patient’s life A GRANDFATHER FROM GROBY who struggled with severe, treatment-resistant anxiety and depression for 30 years has become the first East Midlands patient to be fitted with a vagus nerve stimulation implant. And Johnny Spillane says the tiny device – which sends a small electrical stimulus into his brain - is transforming his life. And he says it is giving him the strength to support the people he loves through the COVID-19 crisis. (Read his story below) Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust is one of just a handful of NHS Trusts with a vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) service. The special battery-powered ‘pacemaker’ style device is implanted surgically by a neurosurgeon beneath the left side collarbone and wired up to the vagus nerve at the base of the neck. Fitted as a life-long treatment, the device delivers regular pulses

Dr Girish Kunigiri with Johnny Spillane in a pre-lockdown check. to the nerve, at intervals of around five minutes, transmitting to areas of the brain known to be critical for the treatment of depression. The treatment is being pioneered by LPT’s electro-convulsive therapy service, based at the Bradgate Mental Health Unit. The team of

~ Johnny’s story ~ Johnny Spillane, 56, from Groby in Leicestershire, was diagnosed with anxiety and depression in his mid 20s and has been taking medication for more than three decades. He spent three weeks in intensive care after attempting suicide, had a number of admissions to mental health wards including two nine-month stays, and tried a variety of treatments – including electro-convulsive therapy – without finding an effective treatment for his severe mental health needs. His illness resulted in having to give up driving, long spells off work, the loss of his job as a manufacturing production manager and led to the break up of his marriage. He said: “I came out of hospital and had to go through divorce and finding a new home. I had a lot of family support and work colleagues were supportive but I couldn’t go back. Then when I was discharged from the ward I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease – I had thought my tremor was medication induced. “Dr Kunigiri reviewed my medication and we talked about different options before referring me for a second opinion. We spoke to a neurologist who agreed that VNS was the best option for depression and because it can have a positive impact on Parkinson’s symptoms. “I had no hesitation about agreeing to VNS and I haven’t regretted it. I am now on the optimum level of stimulation for depression. Physically I feel just a little surge as the impulse starts up, and it changes my voice. “My life just keeps improving. I used to need carers and couldn’t leave the house but I have been able to travel abroad on holiday for the first time in years, Before the Coronavirus outbreak I was having alterations made to my house and going out socially. I’ve also been participating in Recovery College courses and volunteering with two charities, The Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation and Age UK, promoting wellbeing for people with dementia. “One of the best things is that I was able to start picking up my little granddaughter Imogen from nursery and feel independent again. “For five years of my life I didn’t want to wake up in the morning and now my life is fantastic. My depression was so bad before, I didn’t get off the sofa for two years and now I feel really well and I’m able to help others who are struggling with having to stay at home during the pandemic. “My sister and son both work in the NHS and I miss being able to see them and lmogen, my granddaughter but the lockdown hasn’t had a negative effect on my mental health at all. “I have been decorating and gardening at home and now I feel I have the strength to support others, like my mother and my neighbours. I go shopping and help with their gardening. I’m going to bed at night looking forward to the next day.“

doctors and nurses worked together to train and set up the VNS service, which is being supported by health commissioners for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. It comes after the Trust hosted a symposium in 2018, bringing together experts from across Europe to explore its use in the UK and Europe. Consultant psychiatrist Dr Girish Kunigiri, who is also an international speaker on this subject, explained: “Ours is the first NHS Trust in the UK to get sign off from commissioners and we

have developed a partnership with neurosurgery services in Nottingham to implant the device. “VNS is established as a treatment for intractable epilepsy and growing evidence highlights it as a successful long-term approach to treatmentresistant depression. “We have developed a robust pathway with neurosurgery specialists in Nottingham and collaborated with them on the region’s first implant in September last year. “Since then the patient has reported significant improvements in his mood and quality of life after experiencing treatment-resistant depression for more than three decades.” Once fitted, the implant has a battery life of up to a decade and Johnny’s progress is being monitored and reviewed regularly by Dr. Kunigiri’s team and together they agree on appropriate changes to the level of stimulation the implant delivers. “VNS not only results in better outcomes and quality of life for patients but we expect it to reduce mental health hospital admissions and reliance on community mental health services. In the long term it will also mean patients will need to take less medication.”

Hundreds of key workers get help from Leicester Bike Aid NEARLY 400 key workers have been helped by Leicester Bike Aid since it was launched by Leicester City Council a couple of months ago. Under the scheme – which offers free bike loans for key workers and free repairs to existing bikes - almost 200 people have applied for a bike. In addition, the scheme has fixed more than 180 bikes for free to help keep essential workers moving during the coronavirus crisis – with some of the first customers being nurses, in uniform, on their way to work at Leicester’s hospitals. Further recipients have included care workers, teachers, bank and supermarket staff, and food production workers. The city council’s Wheels2Work scheme and grants for businesses to help more of their employees choose active travel are continuing despite the lockdown. Twelve Wheels2Work bikes – including 10 e-bikes – are currently out on hire, to people studying or working in diverse roles such as nursing, probation, manufacturing and lecturing. The bikes are used to travel anything from five to 13 miles a day. Leicester Bike Aid is open to city and county residents. To find out more about Leicester Bike Aid, walking and cycling routes visit the Choose How You Move website. Donations are welcome – Contact cycle-city@leicester.gov.uk to offer your support.

My daughter won first prize in an Unusual Pet contest. She entered a tin of sardines.

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GoLearn adult learning Children Can Be Real Superheroes by Learning STEM continues online SCIENCE, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics account for 11 out of the top 12 Paying jobs.

HUNDREDS of resources to help support people in lockdown are being made available online by GoLearn, Leicestershire’s adult learning service. GoLearn classes were suspended in March due to the coronavirus pandemic. But now, with dedicated staff working from their homes across Leicestershire, learning is up and running again across a large number of subject areas – this time online. The resources and activities are available to anyone who might like to use the time under lockdown to learn a new skill or get creative in these uncertain times, as well as to those already enrolled to help them continue their studies. Resources are available on the GoLearn virtual classroom at www.leicsals.ac.uk/onlinelearning and classes include: Learning for Wellbeing: Ideas and activities for art, craft & leisure projects including cookery, mindfulness, pottery, sewing, drawing and painting and yoga with more to come. Family Learning: Activities and guidance for parents to support homeschooling as well as fun games and family activities. Includes support on physical development, outdoor learning, Early Years and KS1/2 maths and English, emotional development, healthy eating, IT, online safety, family first aid, understanding the world (STEM) and more. Digital Skills: GoLearn is now offering the IT Skills (Level 1/Level 2) course for a reduced price of £35 (usual price £160) until 30 June. This accredited course covers all the core digital skills needed for both life and work in the modern world. Languages: Fun language activities for adults and families including French, Spanish, German, Greek, Portuguese, Italian and British Sign Language (BSL). English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL): Online resources from multiple sources (split by level) to help develop and sustain language skills at home. Learning for Independence: Resources are specially designed for individuals with learning difficulties and/or disabilities to help develop and maintain skills and learning during lockdown. Anyone wishing to request resources can email lals.llddcurriculum@leics.gov.uk, or call the Central Enrolment Line on 0800 988 0308, and a member of the team will be in contact to discuss the best resources available on an individual basis. Employment and Career Support: Includes free CV writing and online job applications support course delivered online by expert tutors. Free and impartial work and employment advice and resources are also available from GoLearn’s Learning and Work Advisors, who provide oneto-one telephone support to help people take their next steps in either learning or work. GoLearn’s website will be updated regularly with new courses and skills to enjoy learning, so check back regularly to see the latest.

Geomag build learning into all their toys and incorporate STEM into the foundations of play. STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. It is these 4 areas in which the children of today will become the real superheroes of tomorrow. 11 out of the top 12 paying jobs all require STEM, and 80% of all future jobs will require one or more of these disciplines. The American Academy of Paediatrics recommends that children spend 60 minutes a day of open-ended play. Children in Oakland were found to have up to 32% faster brain speeds after 8 weeks of structured game play. Around two thirds of parents feel their children have too much screen time. Columbia University found that when people know that they will be able to find information online easily, they are less likely to form a memory of it. Learning through play helps build memory. Initiative play builds key STEM skills and decreases the reliance on digital screens. Moving away from prolonged screen time can aid a child’s development, as encouraging free play, free building and free thinking will help a child build lifelong skills. The Geomag Mechanics 86 Magnetic Motion Set allows children to build incredible and exciting inventions. The bigger they build the more dynamic it gets. With magnetising, rotating and chain reactions they can make anything they wish. Geomag stimulates creativity, inventiveness, and intelligence to allow a child to master mechanical and magnetic forces. Ideal for children aged 7+ The Geomag Mechanics 86 Magnetic Motion Set costs £30 from Amazon.

My father brought me up single-handedly. It’s not easy being the son of a pirate.

THE HERALD • MID-JUNE 2020 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

Radio Secrets by David Lloyd AN INSIDER’S guide to presenting and producing powerful content for broadcast and podcast What makes a successful presenter? How do you attract and engage your audience? How can you distinguish yourself to enjoy lasting success? How do you ensure your programme or podcast chimes with audiences in an ever more competitive world? Drawing on his forty years in radio and on fresh interviews with the leaders in their fields, David Lloyd shares tricks of the trade, and offers advanced insight into listener behaviour, illustrated with rich examples. Radio Secrets is a comprehensive guide to contemporary presentation and production techniques in all formats, from writing to delivery, across radio and podcasting. Read this book and gain insights into: • Tight contemporary music presentation • Generating the most engaging talk content • Developing authenticity and likeability • Handling double-acts, callers and contests • Understanding the audience and keeping them listening Whether you are a newcomer or a seasoned performer, Radio Secrets is essential reading.

Small Ad • ALUMINIUM / GLASS GREENHOUSE: 75 inches wide by 50 inches deep. Buyer to dismantle. Price: £50.00 Tel: 07867 806474 (Markfield) IF YOU HAVE any household items which you’d like to advertise FREE in the Herald, please SEND DETAILS by post or email - sorry, we can’t take them over the phone. Maximum EIGHT items please. Our postal address is: Herald Small Ads, PO Box 8, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9ZT or you can email details to: info@markfieldherald.co.uk PLEASE ENSURE that you put ‘SMALL ADS’ in the subject line, and INCLUDE YOUR FULL POSTAL ADDRESS (not for publication, just to know where you are).

Fed up with Lockdown? Travel the world on YouTube!

Planning Apps SOME RECENT planning applications local to our area of coverage: Proposed Cattery Building - at Tomlinsons Kennels, Upper Grange Farm, Ratby Lane, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9RJ

A RECENT CALLER to the Nick Abbot show on LBC said he was passing the time during Lockdown by watching road and rail trip videos on YouTube. In the previous few days, he’d ‘travelled’ from Namibia to South Africa by car, New York to Montreal by train, across the Falkland Islands, and even journeyed through Greenland. There are loads of filmed road trips available - some better than others, naturally - but they all give you the experience of travelling in foreign countries without having to leave the comfort and safety of your living room. The ‘Traveling Robert’collection of road trips includes a series of journeys across the USA, and elsewhere in the world, and are quite interesting. Amongst the others he came across was ‘The Ultimate East Coast Road Trip’ by car from St Johns in Newfoundland to Key West in the southern tip of Florida. A journey of 3,030 miles. The video of the journey lasts 12 hours and 15 minutes, so make sure you pack your lunch before setting off!

Hybrid application comprising of Outline permission for the erection buildings for storage and distribution uses (Class B8), general industry (Class B2) and associated infrastructure including the formation of a new access (All matters reserved expect for access) and Full planning permission for the demolition of existing farmstead and relocation, including the erection of 2 replacement farm managers dwellings and associated agriculture buildings and structures at Wood Farm, Stanton Lane, Ellistown, Coalville, Leicestershire LE67 1FF Single storey front and side extensions, construction of detached garagte and associated works to driveway - at 42 Ratby Lane, Markfield, Leics. LE67 9RJ.

Why did God make mothers?

Certificate of lawful proposed development for single storey extension at front and rear of house, garage conversion - at 133 Leicester Road, Groby, Leicester LE6 0DT.

Why did God give you your mother and not some other mum? God knew she likes me a lot more than other kids’ mums like me.

Two storey front side and rear extension, single storey side and rear extensions and detached garage - at Brooklands, Merrylees Road, Thornton, Leics. LE67 1AP.

HERE ARE some of the answers seven-yearolds gave to the following questions…

What kind of little girl was your mum? I don’t know because I wasn’t there, but my guess would be pretty bossy. What did your mum need to know about your dad before she married him? His last name. Why did your mum marry your dad? She got too old to do anything else with him. What’s the difference between mums & dads? Mum knows how to talk to teachers without scaring them. What would it take to make your mum perfect? On the inside she’s already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery.

THANK YOU TO THE ADVERTISERS! Your support has made publication of this issue possible.

Change of use of part of site to dog breeding business, detached building for storage of animal feed - at Ormandy, Broad Lane, Stanton Under Bardon, Leics. LE67 9TB. Two storey extension to side of dwelling and pitched roof to existing conservatory - at 8 Preston Close, Stanton Under Bardon, Leics. LE67 9TX. Single storey extension at side and rear of house - at 30 Lime Avenue, Groby, Leicester LE6 0YE.

I fell in love with my girlfriend at second sight. The first time I met her, I didn’t know her father was a millionaire.

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Leicestershire County Council

The Summer Reading Challenge for 2020 THE 2020 Summer Reading Challenge is a celebration of funny books, happiness and laughter. Join the Silly Squad and let’s get silly!

Silly Squad has been announced as the 2020 Summer Reading Challenge theme, offering children and families the chance to read, laugh and be silly together during the difficult times we’re experiencing. The all-new digital aspect of the Summer Reading Challenge will help to keep children reading over the summer and support parents and carers with children already at home. This year’s funny theme will see your little ones reading 6 (or more!) books of their choice over the summer and unlocking digital rewards, videos and activites. While completing the challenge, young readers will meet The Silly Squad, a team of animal friends who love to go on adventures and get stuck in to all different kinds of funny books - but keep an eye out for the mystery baddy, who is up to no good....

Taking part Children’s reading can dip during the long summer holidays, and particularly now, with the disruption and impact of social distancing on schools and libraries. This year’s digital Summer Reading Challenge will help children to keep up their reading skills and confidence by reading whatever makes them happy, getting silly and having fun! Children from 4-12 years are able to join the 2020 Summer Reading Challenge from the earlier date of 5 June until September, by visiting the website at https://summerreadingchallenge.org.uk. Children will collect incentives and receive rewards and a certificate as they read six of their own books, or library e-books from BorrowBox. To celebrate this year’s Summer Reading Challenge we have put together a special collection of brilliant eBooks and eAudiobooks for children that will be available from our Borrowbox throughout June and July, without any queues. The collection will be available soon, in the meantime, find out more about using Borrowbox with your Leicestershire Libraries membership.

Letter from Uncle Eustace

Beware the spell-checker on your special service sheets! The Rectory St James the Least

My dear Nephew Darren When producing material for your magazine or church services, beware the computer spell-checker. We once let our own system check a Christmas carol sheet and, on the night, found ourselves obliged to sing “away in a manager”, mangers apparently being unknown to our machine. If you use special sheets regularly, it seems a law of nature – as with metal coat hangers - that they all intermingle while no one is watching. Thus, on Easter Day, half the congregation will have been issued with sheets for Harvest, which will only become obvious once the service begins. The first hymn will be entirely lost while sidesmen scuttle about looking for replacements only to find that there won’t be enough of them anyway and then the second hymn will be lost while others helpfully wander about church donating their sheets to those looking helpless and then trying to find someone to share with. Never, ever, print on them ‘Do not take home’ as this will only ensure everyone does so. I have sometimes wondered if the instruction ‘Take this sheet home for reference’ would ensure that they stayed neatly arranged in the pews after the service. And if it is a service where babies are likely to be present, be assured that many of the copies will be returned half chewed and coated with bits of whatever the infant had for breakfast. There must be a market for paper treated with a child-repellent flavour for such occasions. Anyone who thinks we are an unimaginative nation should visit a church after a special service to see how many places members of congregations can invent to hide the booklets: under kneelers, neatly folded and hidden inside hymn books, among flower arrangements and behind heating pipes so that no one can quite reach them. They then lurk there reproachfully for the next ten years until mice solve the problem. No, stick to large, hard bound books. They are resistant to teeth and are too substantial to be hidden in pockets. Their only drawback is that they tend to fall victim to the pull of gravity at the quietest moments.

Your loving uncle,

Eustace The best thing about homeschooling is that now I can add “I’ll fail you” to my repertoire of empty parenting threats.

THE HERALD • MID-JUNE 2020 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

All the latest news from The Premonition Code: The Science of Precognition, How Sensing the Future Can Change Your Life by Theresa Cheung and Julia Mossbridge Have you ever had a feeling something was going to happen and it did? Have you had a dream and then seen it play out in your waking life? YOU MAY remember back in January that we were awarded a grant from Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council.

Most people dismiss these premonitions as coincidences, but scientific evidence suggests that some of these experiences are far from coincidental. What if we could use information from the future to guide our choices, and to drive positive change in our lives and in the world? Now you can learn about the science behind precognition, read real life case studies, and cultivate your precognitive abilities to participate in the largest scientific experiment of its kind on precognition.

manyAs partpeople are touched by dementia. of the HBBC/VCS Partnership we received funding to support further improvement of the sensory garden behind the library. This follows work done in 2018 with the support of Bradgate Rotary Club when undergrowth was cleared to open up parts of the garden. Our grant is to replace the wooden edging along the paths and lay new paths which have become very worn. We also aim to plant shrubs in the borders along the library wall. The paths should have been started in the Spring but the awful th rain during the last winter made the ground unworkable. We are pleased to announce that work will start in June. During lockdown the internal decoration of the library has been completed. We are working with Leicestershire County Council to look at the Health and Safety of our volunteers and the public ready for reopening. The Trustees and volunteers are committed to reopen as soon as we can although it may be on reduced hours to begin with. We must say a big thank you to Julie Grace and Chris Robson. Julie has been checking the library every week and facilitating a small amount of book borrowing where it has been considered safe to do so and discharging returned books. Chris has been maintaining the premises, dealing with contractors for the usual compliance inspections and work and reading the meters etc. Neighbours John, Graham and Dawn keep a watchful eye and we are very grateful to them.

SE COME TO OUR FRIENDLY COFFEE MORNING at MARKFIELD LIBRARY at 11am on Wednesday 18 January.

Virtual Christian uld you please spend just one hour to Aid Week 2020 and erstand a little more about dementia? Coronavirus ld help you, family, friends, neighbours ALTHOUGH Christian Aid Week is cancelled this year in - our whole community. reality now, it is taking place online. The coronavirus outbreak threatens the health of our neighbours near and far. Together we must respond quickly to help the most vulnerable. Coronavirus has shown us that our futures are bound more tightly together than ever before. And now it is spreading across the world’s poorest countries, putting people living in poverty at great risk. These people are already facing a lack of water, food and healthcare. Some are homeless. Some are living with underlying health issues such as HIV. As coronavirus infection rates speed up, they will feel the impacts of the virus deeply. We must respond now. Coronavirus impacts all of us. But love unites us all. Christian Aid is responding to the coronavirus outbreak in Africa, Asia and Latin America and the Caribbean. For further information, please visit online: www.christian.org.uk. At the same time, we are very aware of how disastrous the virus’s impact is on the health and well-being, and financial circumstances of the homes and families in our village.

ree, valuable and interesting Dementia Friends mation Session is just about asking everyone to and a bit more about dementia and how we might life that bit easier and more pleasant for those people who live with it.

Please do be a Dementia Friend.

We were proud to play our part in the recent VE Day celebration by decorating the library railings. Bunting was loaned to us by Chris and Rosemary Robinson and Gabriella knitted the rest – a magnificent effort by Gabriella. Hazel Brewin sewed them together and they were really welcomed by neighbours and other residents of Markfield.

Margaret Bowler

Chair Markfield Community Library

DONATIONS Unfortunately, under the current circumstances regarding Covid-19, there is a delay to processing donations by post. Please give via the website where possible or call 020 7523 2269 to donate by telephone. Adverts on the TV give details how donations may be made by text. Online donations: https://www.christianaid.org.uk/give-money/makedonation

VIRTUAL RESOURCES – WORSHIP, FUNDRAISING AND FUN ACTIVITIES Christian Aid have prepared online resources to enable live streaming of daily worship during Christian Aid Week, a virtual quiz and other virtual fundraising ideas on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/christianaid/ and https://www.christianaid.org. uk/christian-aid-week/daily-prayer-reflection. Very grateful thanks is extended to everyone who can help Christian Aid carry out this most important work at this time. Contact: Margaret on 01530 243292.

I just realized why I don’t look good in pictures anymore. It’s my face.

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SNIPPETS

Use your old clothes to help others in poverty LOCKDOWN drove many of us to do a Spring clearout of our wardrobes. But what do you do now do with the old clothes you no longer want? Charity shops may be closed for the time being, but there’s still a way to donate your old items and support your favourite charities. Just go online and visit Thrift+ . It is an online store where you can buy and donate great quality second-hand clothes. And you get to choose which cause to support when you make a donation. While lockdown measures are in place, they’ve introduced a doorstep collection service, so you don’t need to leave your home to support life-transforming charities.

Does the fruit you buy look a bit wonky? THAT’S because growers have faced a labour shortfall, when many seasonal workers from eastern Europe were unable to reach the UK due to the pandemic. So instead, there has been a British recruitment drive, targeting inexperienced furloughed workers. As Martin Lines, of the Nature Friendly Farming Network says: “Fresh produce may not be as evenly cut as usual, given that people are learning on the job.”

Have you bought non-essential items online during the lock-down? IF THE ANSWER to that question is ‘yes’, and you now feel a little guilty, you can perhaps draw comfort from the fact that you are not alone. A You Gov survey found that most of us think it’s been fine to buy non-essential goods online during the coronavirus outbreak, despite concerns among key workers that it could unnecessarily spread the virus. Around 25% of those surveyed said that it was very acceptable, with 50% saying it was fairly acceptable. Only 3% said it was not at all acceptable, and 14% not very acceptable. Overall (35%) said they were buying more on the internet than before the lockdown. The views of this majority of online shoppers are not necessarily shared by those who have the task of delivering the goods to our homes. One national newspaper reported that the official guidance said online retail was still allowed and ‘encouraged’, despite drivers and warehouse workers claiming they were being put at risk. It added that consumers could still order whatever they wanted from the likes of Amazon, Asos and John Lewis. The World Health Organisation view is that the likelihood of an infected person contaminating commercial goods is low and the risk of catching the virus that causes COVID-19 from a package that has been moved, travelled, and exposed to different conditions and temperature is also low. This doesn’t, however, reflect the concerns relating to social distancing in the warehouses preparing goods for despatch. One courier, who has been granted key worker status due to her role, told the Daily Mail : “Please stop ordering non-essential tat. While you keep ordering online, workers in warehouses are risking their lives having to keep picking and packing it, and us couriers have to keep putting ourselves at risk collecting from crowded depots to deliver it. My load on Friday [March 27] was 120 just for a small housing estate. There was another 104 waiting for me the next morning - all non-essential. “We understand we are key workers, and we are happy to do our job and risk our lives and the lives of others to deliver essential key items for people to survive during the lockdown. ‘I’ve delivered Superdrug packages which I’m sure are full of handwash, and educational items from places like The Works - all that is totally fair enough. “But when people are ordering clothes online, that is madness. 120 parcels in a day is much higher than the average number I was delivering pre-coronavirus. ‘The worst thing is, I have to go back to the same homes three days later to pick up the items when people decide they want to return them anyway. Shoppers are not thinking about the impact they are having.” Some retailers, such as high street giant Next, has shut its online stores for a time after staff raised concerns. And Amazon banned all third-party sellers and vendors, which sell 60 per cent of all the products on the site, from stocking ‘non-essential’ items until April 5. Apparently the 13 warehouses had become overwhelmed with orders from panic-buyers. Despite all the problems surrounding delivery slots groceries have been the most common online lockdown purchase among British households (40%), with March being the strongest month on record for food stores. Clothes and beauty products come second at 29% - ahead of medicine and health products (27%). DIY and art and crafts supplies (24%), books, magazines and comics (21%) and outdoor furniture and gardening products (16%) have also been popular purchases. Activewear and exercise equipment are popular (11%), with (10%) having furniture or homeware delivered, and 9% buying PC, video and board games.

Norman Griffiths

I went on a bus tour yesterday - what a rip-off. £10 just to look round a double-decker.

THE HERALD • MID-JUNE 2020 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

Having a clearout?

LOROS Glenfield Warehouse opens for donations of clothing IT’S THE news everyone who has had a clear out has been waiting for. LOROS Hospice has opened its warehouse in Glenfield to donations of clothing for the first time since lockdown. Whilst the charity’s 29 shops remain closed, the warehouse, located at 1 Station Road, Glenfield, is now open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am-3pm. “Donations are absolutely essential to LOROS to raise the funds which support our patient care, so please do bring your items along,” said Gary McMillan-Dale, LOROS Retail Manager. “Please bear in mind that due to the pandemic we are accepting a restricted list of donations, so don’t bring anything else or we’ll have to ask you to take it away again”, adds Gary. LOROS can currently only accept: clean clothes, bric-a-brac items, small electrical items, boxed toys and games, computer games and consoles and vinyl records Glenfield Warehouse will have 2 metre markers and a clear one-way system marked. LOROS staff will be wearing gloves and masks, and storing items for 72 hours before sorting, as per government guidelines. If you’re visiting the Glenfield warehouse, please stay two metres apart to protect yourself and don’t visit if you have any symptoms of COVID-19. Please also do not leave donations outside when the warehouse or shops are closed as they cannot be used and LOROS may be reported for fly tipping.

Our Cosmic Ancestry in the Stars: The Panspermia Revolution and the Origins of Humanity By Chandra Wickramasinghe Ph.D., Kamala Wickramasinghe, Gensuke Tokoro MAINSTREAM consensus is that life arose on Earth spontaneously out of “primordial soup.” Yet this theory, as well as the Darwinian “survival of the fittest” concept as it relates to major steps in evolution, has no scientific basis or proof. Where, then, did life come from? As the authors show, with conclusive scientific evidence, life came from space-a concept known as “panspermia.” We humans, and all other life on Earth, evolved over millennia in response to viruses that arrived via comets, and we continue to do so. Exploring the philosophical, psychological, cultural, and environmental ramifications of the acceptance of panspermia, the authors show how the shift will be on par with the Copernican Revolution--when it was finally accepted that the Earth was not the center of the Universe. Explaining the origins of the panspermia theory in the work of the late Sir Fred Hoyle, the authors reveal the vast body of evidence that has accumulated over the past 4 decades in favor of the cosmic origins of life, including viral inserts found in DNA that have shaped our human genome over millions of years. They show how the tiniest of viruses, microscopic animals (tardigrades), and even seeds have been found to be natural cosmonauts. The authors also show how space-borne viruses play a crucial role in the positive evolution of life and that our entire existence on this planet is contingent on the continuing ingress of cosmic viruses. Perhaps the most dramatic ramification of all is that acceptance of panspermia means acceptance that Earth is not unique--that other life-filled planets exist and intelligent life is common in the Universe. Not only did we come from space, but we are not alone.

Leicester Animal Aid (LAA) update ‘Caring is Sharing’ and our Medical Foster Scheme LIKE everyone, Leicester Animal Aid (LAA), has been adapting to the challenges and difficulties that the pandemic has presented. It’s brought in different processes to comply with DEFRA guidelines in accepting new animals in and re-homing existing residents. And we’ve had to carry on without the support of LAA’s amazing volunteers.

‘Caring is Sharing’ AS VISITORS and volunteers can’t currently come to the Huncote Centre, a campaign ‘Caring is Sharing’ was launched to keep everyone connected. It encourages sharing photographs of pets to put a smile on people’s faces as well as sharing LAA animals that are looking for a forever home. Not to be put off by the fact that all our ‘live’ events had to be cancelled, LAA held a virtual online ‘Pawsome Pet Show’. Whilst it was free to enter, donations were gratefully accepted to help support LAA’s Medical Foster Scheme.

The LAA Medical Foster Scheme – for dogs and cats with existing medical conditions IT CAN BE extremely difficult for dogs and cats with a known medical condition to find a new home and these can be the animals most in need. Potential new owners can be put off by the expense of an ongoing medical condition and the worry of having an animal that has one. The Scheme pays the veterinary costs for dogs and cats that leave the Centre with a known medical condition and provides ongoing support and advice. Bertie, a grey miniature Poodle, came into the Centre after both of his owners had passed away. He was 12 and had been with them since being a puppy and was understandably confused and upset. He had several medical conditions that required medication, including a heart murmur. He needed to be found a home urgently, so his health didn’t deteriorate further due to stress. Thanks to the Medical Foster Scheme he was re-homed within two weeks, and will soon be celebrating his 15th birthday. Honey, a 9 year old Tabby cat, was returned to LAA in October as she was urinating in the house because of recurring cystitis. It was decided that she would go onto the Medical Foster Scheme and LAA would cover the costs of any consultations needed for her urinary issues. She is now settled into her lovely new home and loving life.

Could you help support our Medical Foster Scheme? THE SCHEME pays the veterinary costs for dogs and cats that leave the Centre with a known medical condition. LAA is currently helping around 45 dogs and cats to live in homes for life, because of the scheme. The Scheme costs thousands of pounds a year and relies on donations. If you’d like to make a donation you can do so through our Just Giving Medical Foster Scheme page. Or please contact the Huncote Centre.

https://www.leicesteranimalaid.org.uk/ Tel: 01455 888 257

If you enjoy reading The Herald, please pass it on to a friend or relative after you’ve finished with it. Thanks!

I don’t understand fast food. I’ve been eating it for years but I seem to be getting slower and slower.

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Competition gives chance for pupils to compose short film soundtrack

Great opportunity for Leicestershire’s musical young people YOUNG PEOPLE from across Leicester and Leicestershire are getting the chance to compose the soundtrack to a new short film about Leicester, Leicestershire and the people who live here. Leicester-Shire Schools Music Service (LSMS) and Royal Birmingham Conservatoire have teamed up to launch the competition – entitled “Soundtrack to Leicestershire” – which is aimed at encouraging pupils aged 12 to 18 to get creative. The competition will be judged by acclaimed composer Segun Akinola, an English composer for television and documentaries. Pupils are being given the simple brief to create a soundtrack for a short film which has been created by LSMS using both images of the people and places of Leicestershire, and including images sent in as part of Leicestershire County Council’s Community Curators’ “Covid-19 Isolated, but Inspired” project. The soundtrack can be in any style or genre and can use any sounds or instruments including live

Opportunity to win a session with composer Segun Akinola (pictured) instruments, virtual plug-ins, noise, voice, beats, lyrics, found sounds or whatever else entrants want to use. The top three entries will win a two-hour online masterclass with Segun Akinola. The top five entries will also win Dorico Pro music software, worth £480. Winners will also have their soundtrack streamed by LSMS. The competition was originally planned before the coronavirus lockdown, and presents a chance to engage, support and encourage pupils to get creative in a project reflecting experiences of the lockdown, using films and photos

submitted by local people. Sharon Bray, Head of Service at LSMS, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to demonstrate their musical skills, with great prizes on offer. “We’re delighted to be working with the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire on this exciting project and look forward to working together on future projects.” Cllr Elly Cutkelvin, assistant city mayor for education, said: “Music and creative learning are vital tools for self-expression, and even more so when faced with the current restrictions that the lockdown has placed on all our lives. “This competition is a fantastic opportunity to engage with young local musical talent and create work that truly reflects these unprecedented times.”

The top five entries will also win Dorico Pro music software, worth £480.

Entrants have to aged between 12 and 18, as of Monday, June 1st 2020, and must live in Leicester or Leicestershire. No copyrighted material can be used to compose the track. The deadline for entries is midday on Monday, 29th June 2020.

For more details or to enter the competition visit: www.bit.ly/LSMSRCBComp

Supporting you in your home We are leaders in the community helping people to live at home indepenently. Our friendly and supportive staff have been providing assistance to our clients for over 25 years our staff have full references, an enhanced DBS and have completed extensive training. At Bosworth Homecare we build and tailor packages of support to meet our client’s individual needs. Our support plans can be any combination of the many services we offer including, medication, personal care, assistance with domestic tasks and shopping. We also support our clients to hospital appointments, social activities and offer a befriending service.

Domestic Duties • Shopping • Meal Preparation Medication Assistance • Personal Care Support with Social Activities, Hospital Appointments and a Befriending Service

Tel · 01455 292648

We have been rated GOOD by the Care Quality Commission and became the first homecare provider to achieve the local authorities Dignity and Respect Award. If you would like to discuss any support needs for yourself or your loved one please contact our dedicated team.

Friendly and Compassionate Carer’s also required to support our clients in your area

Email · managementteam@givecare.co.uk | www.bosworthhomecare.co.uk Bosworth Homecare 7a Main Street Market Bosworth CV13 0JN

If it weren’t for marriage, men would spend their lives thinking they had no faults at all.

THE HERALD • MID-JUNE 2020 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

Markfield Medical Centre & PPG News

HANK YOU to all our patients who have adapted to the changes that have had to take place at Markfield Medical Centre in order to deal safely with the Covid 19 pandemic. At the time of writing this article arrangements are as follows: GPs are carrying out telephone triage and some video consultations and patients are still being asked to telephone the practice and not to come to the surgery initially. For example, patients are being asked to e mail pictures of rashes - the doctors find this very effective as they can enlarge the image and look at the rash in much greater detail. Some face to face consultations are taking place but only if arranged by a GP. The surgery is keen to promote the ‘Engage Consult’ online consultation service. You can use this messaging service to ask for help about a non-emergency medical problem or for general advice from your doctor or other members of your Practice team. By signing up to use this service, you can get advice from your Practice without having to visit or telephone the surgery. Engage Consult can be used from any mobile phone, tablet or computer. You will need to have an email address to sign up. Online consultations do not replace being able to meet your doctor, but give another option when a trip to the Surgery is not necessary. Your Practice will reply with an answer to your question and tell you what you should do next. If you send your question within their online service times, you will usually get a reply on the same day. Instructions for this can be found on the Practice website. If elderly patients are unable to register for this then their relatives can register for them and ask questions. Patients are asked to put prescription requests in the box outside the surgery, unless medicines are ordered online or through the chemist. There is a table in the front foyer for patients to collect urine bottles, prescription request slips and so on. In order to keep both staff and patients safe, ‘distancing spots’ have been laid out in the surgery Reception area, and patients are being asked to stay in their car if they are attending clinics such as maternity or ‘Imm and Vacc’. INR tests are being carried out whilst patients are in their car. The surgery is at the moment only carrying out ‘urgent bloods’ and not routine blood tests. Health Care Assistants have a slot for every two patients to ensure that Reception is not busy. The surgery is aware that patients would like to be

able to see the doctors face to face but this raises an issue around PPE availability. The more patients who are seen for routine appointments (if that is allowed) the more PPE may/will be needed.

IT HAS BEEN amazing to see how many people have volunteered to help others during the Covid 19 crisis. Local organisations have been doing a marvellous job in many areas, not least Markfield Good Neighbours Scheme – telephone 07885 243033. In addition NHS Volunteer Responders can help with tasks such as collecting shopping and prescribed medicines, driving patients to medical appointments, or transporting supplies between sites. The scheme is already helping thousands of people every day and hundreds of thousands of volunteers are available to help. You can make referrals through the NHS Volunteer Responders referrers’ portal or by calling 0808 196 3382. This scheme is now open for selfreferrals for people who have been advised to shield and those most at risk who are isolating at home from coronavirus. These people can ask volunteers for short-term help by calling 0808 196 3646 between 8am and 8pm. You can find more information about the programme at www.nhsvolunteerresponders. org.uk

BY THE time you read this article, the ‘Test and Trace’ initiative will have been running for several weeks. People are being asked to watch out for one or more of the most common symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) – a recent onset of a new continuous cough and/or high temperature and/or a loss of, or change in, normal sense of taste or smell (anosmia). If you have any of these symptoms, you can ask for a test to check if you have the virus. This is called an antigen test. If you test positive for coronavirus you will be contacted via text, email or by telephone and asked to log on to the NHS Test and Trace website. Contact tracers will then track down people who have been in contact with you. This could include other members of your household or others with whom you have been in close contact – that is, within 2 metres for more than 15 minutes. These close contacts will be asked to stay at home for up to 14 days, even if they do not have any symptoms, so that they do not unknowingly spread the virus. If your symptoms worsen during

home isolation or are no better after 7 days, contact NHS 111 online. If you have no internet access, you should call NHS 111. For a medical emergency dial 999. For more details please visit www. nhs.uk/coronavirus

MENTAL HEALTH and well being is so important during this period - it is very hard to adjust to not going out, meeting people socially, chatting face to face in person and so on. There is some good advice on the NHS website - visit https://www. nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/ coronavirus-covid-19-staying-athome-tips/ to learn more.

THE PANDEMIC has certainly changed the way that Primary Care is delivered to patients and there are discussions ongoing to see what strategies will be needed in the future. This will include consultation with patients and it will be a whole Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland approach. The Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) are keen to gather patients’ experiences of Primary Care Services and are using a variety of methods to achieve this including online surveys and telephone interviews. Anyone who is interested in Health and wants to shape the future of local services in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, can join the citizen’s panel online and take part in surveys, polls and questionnaires all about health. Visit http://www.healthcareviewsllr. co.uk for more information.

SNIPPETS

Sweet dreams? FROM LARGE pink hamsters that smile and wave at you, to cars that can’t get off roundabouts, a lot of us are reporting weird, vivid, and intense dreams just now. Experts say that financial worries, cabin fever and boredom may all be factors. But – on the plus side, there is also the fact that many of us are finally catching up on our sleep. And by waking up without an alarm, we will have better recall of our dreams.

Lost in translation LAST YEAR, some friends took their six-year-old on a car trip to France. To help pass the time on the way down to the Channel, they encouraged their son to practise his new reading skills by calling out road signs. He fell asleep just before they entered France. When he awoke, he saw the French motorway signs and said in a worried tone, “I think I forgot how to read while I was asleep.”

Top Ten Silliest Questions asked on a Cruise Ship

pLEASE follow the Government guidelines on Social Distancing.

1. Do these steps go up or down? 2. What do you do with the beautiful ice carvings after they melt? 3. Which elevator do I take to get to the front of the ship? 4. Does the crew sleep on the ship? 5. Is this island completely surrounded by water? 6. Does the ship make its own electricity? 7. Is it salt-water in the toilets? 8. What elevation are we at? 9. There’s a photographer on board who takes photos and displays them the next day... the question was asked: ‘If the pictures aren’t marked, how will I know which ones are mine?’ 10. What time is the Midnight Buffet being served?

STAY ALERT – CONTROL THE VIRUS – SAVE LIVES.

Paul Grayson, Cruise Director for the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

Other useful websites; • One Prepared is a local source of information for help and services in LLR https://www.llrprepared.org. uk/one-prepared/ • National information is available at https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus • For health advice on coronavirus please visit: https:// www.nhs.uk/ • For local NHS information see https://www.leicestercityccg.nhs.uk/ my-health/coronavirus-advice/

The bank says this is my final notice. Isn’t it fantastic that they’re not going to bother me anymore?

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Borough Councillor Andy Furlong’s UPDATE Tel: 01530 231377 • Email: andy.furlong@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk Foodbank appeal One other piece of news on the Co-op front. Those readers who are getting used to socially distanced queuing for the till at the Markfield Co-op store on main street will have heard the regular announcements calling for food bank donations.

ET’S START with some good news. I can report that both ‘Dawn’ and ‘Jo’ are both doing well; although at 23 centimetres tall, Jo is edging the contest right now. Regular readers of my column will know that I am referring to the two ‘Queen Bee’ sunflowers that currently sit next to my back doorstep. They’ve been named after Dawn Grantham and Joanne Norwood in recognition of the fantastic work that they’ve been doing coordinating volunteers and generally working to keep spirits up in Markfield during the COVID-19 lockdown. Sunflowers are springing up all around the village, and they are sure to bring a smile to peoples’ faces as the summer progresses. We’re not out of the woods of course. The number of deaths from COVID-19 here in the UK is second only to the US. Our daily figures are much higher than anywhere else in Europe. My thoughts go out the friends and families of the three people in our community who died after contracting the virus. Some newspapers have reported that the outbreak may not have peaked in Hinckley & Bosworth just yet. So, even though some restrictions are now being lifted, simple measures such as regular hand washing and maintaining social distance remain vitally important. This really is a matter of life and death, and sadly it may be many months before things get back to ‘normal’.

Let’s keep co-operating Many good things have emerged from this terrifying health emergency. I have previously remarked that people generally seem friendlier. Neighbours are looking out for one another, and there is a spirit of solidarity and co-operation in the air. We can all learn from this, and there is no reason why this new-found sense of community should end once the outbreak is over. On the contrary, we must build on it for the future. I’m a Labour and Co-operative Party Councilor. Co-operation and solidarity mean a great deal to me. That’s why I’ve made a big thing out of the work being carried out by Dawn and Jo, the Markfield Good Neighbours, and community volunteers all over the borough. I can now report that I’ve signed a special pledge to be a Community Co-operator post-COVID-19. Here’s what it says: Despite the pain and disruption Coronavirus has caused, communities across the UK responded to this crisis not with division, but with co-operation. We befriended neighbours, joined mutual aid groups, donated to foodbanks and more. We came together in solidarity. We can learn from and build on this experience. When life starts to return to normal, we must not lose this spirit of solidarity and community co-operation; nor can we return to crippling austerity and further erosion of vital public services. We can all be a community co-operator.  You could volunteer in your community, shop at a local business that pay their fair share of tax, or get involved with a local co-op. I pledge to continue to act in the spirit of community and cooperation we have found during this crisis. We are stronger together… I would encourage all those who believe in building stronger communities to sign the pledge too. https://party.coop/community-co-operator

It angers me that after a decade of savage government austerity, I live in a country where 1.6 million people relied on food parcels last year. This is nothing short of a national disgrace, but for now, please give what you can next time you are doing your shopping.

Hill Hole emergency Finally, a word about Hill Hole. Herald readers in Markfield cannot have missed the drama that unfolded on the morning of Thursday 28 May. A resident on Main Street was walking her dog at the nature reserve when she spotted a break in the fence around the old quarry. Towels had been left on the grass, and clothing was noticed strewn around the quarry edge. To make matters worse, the eagle-eyed dog walker spotted an unidentified object floating in the water. Given the potential risk to life, 999 was called. The police arrived within minutes, and after a quick assessment of the situation, further resources were despatched. This included paramedics, fire fighters and search and rescue squads. A police helicopter was called in to sweep the quarry. At one point, over 20 members of the emergency services were on site. Thankfully, nothing was found, and no-one was harmed. However, we might have woken up to some vastly different news headlines on Friday, hence the better safe than sorry approach adopted by our emergency services. There are several learning points from this episode. First, we may not always see the police in our villages and in some ways, this is reassuring since it indicates that crime is relatively low when compared to other parts of the county. That said, when life is danger, or a serious crime is in progress, a 999 call will be answered within seconds, and the police will quickly be on the scene. Second, with the arrival of hot weather, schools closed, and some relaxation of the COVID-19 restrictions, substance misuse and anti-social behaviour (ASB) is on the rise. Hill Hole has long been a magnet for misbehaviour, but I want to see this latest upsurge nipped in the bud. Mindful of the fact that ASB is not exclusively a police matter, I have been in touch HBBC’s Community Safety Manager, and the following actions have been promised: The damage to the fence was repaired by the council’s Green Spaces team, and the site will be monitored for vandalism and damage more regularly. Warning posters have been erected at the site. This will be supported by a social media campaign from the Council and Leicestershire Fire and Rescue. The site will be targeted in the Neighbourhood Police Area patrol strategy. The police will take the names of anyone caught trespassing or behaving anti-socially, and this will be followed up by the Council’s ASB team. Arrest is an option where more serious offences are being committed. Cllr Matthew Lay and I are working with the Community Safety Partnership to come up with a longer-term strategy to address anti-social behaviour in and around villages in the north of the borough. In the meantime, if you spot anything suspicious, use the new online reporting portal to help Leicestershire Police build an intelligence picture of any illegal activity at the site via https://www.leics.police.uk/reportcrime or, if you prefer to speak up but stay safe by remaining anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 Take care out there.

Andy Furlong Contact me on 01530 231377 or via andy.furlong@hinckleybosworth.gov.uk

It’s hard to explain how good I am at describing things.

THE HERALD • MID-JUNE 2020 • Tel: 01530 244069 • Email: info@markfieldherald.co.uk

What’s Been Happening at Markfield Community and Sports Centre Words and pictures from Ron Grantham • Tel: 01530 242240 • www.markfieldcommunitycentre.com

Community Park has been a blessing THANKS to the foresight of the Parish Council the new Community Park has been a blessing during the Corona Virus social distancing restrictions. It is an outdoor green space where we can appreciate a “breath of fresh air”. It is wonderful seeing families enjoying the outdoors, children playing, people exercising and walking their dogs. It has been a great pity that Government instructions have meant that we have had to close the Community Centre, the kiddies playground, all outdoor sports and games facilities BUT the reason is obvious and necessary to reduce the spread of the virus. I know that many are itching to get back to “normal” and use these facilities BUT please be patient the time is slowly coming when we can reopen them all once again. So, our message is enjoy this lovely weather, enjoy the community park, stay alert and follow the distancing rules.

Mayflower Club Gift Packs

IT IS NOW over ten weeks since we sadly had to close down the Mayflower Club to protect our elderly and vulnerable members.

help and support given by our NHS, Care Workers, Emergency Services, Key Workers and all those brilliant volunteers helping with the Markfield Good Neighbour Scheme. Perhaps we could even manage a Guinness Book of records record! If you would like to add a painted rock our ADDER starts next to the pathway near to the Memorial plaque benches. Just add your rock to the tail and see it grow.

Not only are we missing them but they are all starting to seriously miss the company that the Mayflower clubs have provided. Indeed some were starting to feel really low and isolated. So, to cheer them up, we put together a little gift pack to make them smile and to reassure them that there is always someone here to help and support them. Judging by the number of cards, text messages and emails of appreciation that we have received from them IT DID THE TRICK. Fingers and everything else crossed we will be back in the not too distant future. Can I take this opportunity to thank Carole Kemp, one of our members, who has voluntarily been staying in touch with members providing them with a “life line” in these difficult times.

Stay Safe At Hill Hole

Covid-19 Rock Snake Slithers Around Markfield

MARKFIELD GOOD NEIGHBOURS SCHEME

HAVE YOU seen the Markfield Covid19 Rock Snake yet?

THE VOLUNTEERS have done literally hundreds of acts of kindness including shopping, telephone reassurance calls and helping out with many more obscure requests for help. They have collected and delivered over 100 prescriptions and delivered urine and other samples.

It suddenly appeared the other day on the Community Park. It started as a little snake but has rapidly grown and grown. As I write this article it has grown to 148 painted rocks in less than forty eight hours. It has already been attracting villagers and especially children who have been counting the stones and marvelling at the wonderful painted designs and patterns. Our village COVID rock snake is called ADDER so excusing the pun you and your children could also ADDER another rock to the ever growing display. Perhaps, at the end of the crisis, we could collect up all the rocks and turn them into a “mountain” of rocks as an everlasting memorial to the care,

VERY RECENTLY the Emergency Services have had to attend Hill Hole following a spate of young people breaking into the perimeter fence, climbing the rock faces and diving into the water for a swim. The Borough Council has circulated a letter concerning water safety and other activities that are not allowed at the site. Young people are not invincible and none of us want a tragic accident taking pklace.edy taking place. PLEASE heed the advice and stay safe.

What our volunteers have been doing

The re-opening of the Post Office has been a “god send” to villagers and those from other villages. Without the support of the volunteers this vital service would have remained closed. To maintain social distancing at the Post office requires 8 volunteers a day working in pairs for an hour a time three days a week. This equates to 24 volunteers a week.

My girlfriend left me because I ‘take things too far’. So I called the police.

For Advertising Rates & Publication Dates , visit: www.markfieldherald.co.uk We have been kept busy sorting out problems with Food parcels and supplies to vulnerable people and, at the same time accepting and storing food donations for emergency use. Volunteers are still busy making scrubs and headbands as well as collecting handcream for NHS and Social Care staff. One volunteer is knitting NHS dolls for ambulance crews dealing with anxious children. (see photo below) We have set up a Books scheme with the Library and have also started “Great Markfield Book Swap” project where people especially children can share books at locations in Markfield and Fieldhead. We have even been asked to help out with other unexpected request including a stuck garage door, gas fire not working and even a lost kitten. We even managed to resolve them all.

VE Day Celebrations VE Day was a real treat and a bit of an escape from the current crisis. Our volunteers organized social distancing “street parties” throughout the village and even made their own bunting. It was a gloriously sunny day and gave us all a chance APPROVAL to wave to our neighbours, chat from a distance and see if they were ok. The village was festooned with flags and bunting and plates of food and cups of tea were Joyce Briggs 94 years old celebrating generously shared social distancing VE Day tea party with our more elderly residents. With the sound of Vera Lynn’s song “We’ll Meet Again” drifting across the PRINT HxWmm village it was a great day. DIGITAL WxHpx PHOTOGRAPH As I write this article I am chuffed to mention that the Rural Community Council and the Borough Council wish to feature our scheme as part of the National Volunteers Week as a model of a successful Neighbourhood voluntary support scheme. We are so proud of what all our volunteers have achieved in the village and beyond. With volunteers now starting to go back to work and the schools also starting to re-open the time and help that our volunteers can provide will start to diminish. This will eat into our bank of 70+ volunteers so, if you can offer some support no matter how small it will be much appreciated. It’s not been easy. Every day there seems to be a problem or situation to resolve. But, it’s all been worthwhile especially with the support of our fantastic volunteers without whom it couldn’t be done.

Ron and Dawn Grantham

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